The Kaʻū Calendar News Briefs, Hawaiʻi Island

Saturday is the final 2016 Sanctuary Ocean Count of humpback whales. Aerial footage of unusual whale behavior is available at hawaiihumpbackwhale.noaa.gov. See more below. Photo from NOAA

HAWAI`I DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH yesterday reported no new confirmed cases of dengue fever since one was reported last Friday. Presently, the total number of confirmed cases since the beginning of the outbreak is 262, including 236 residents and 26 visitors.

DOH urges residents to prevent mosquito bites. Wear clothing that minimizes exposed skin, use mosquito repellent on skin that cannot be covered, and avoid areas of high mosquito concentration during the early morning and late afternoon periods when mosquito activity is greatest.

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SEN. MAZIE HIRONO CO-INTRODUCED the Coral Reef Sustainability Through Innovation Act, legislation that would jumpstart research related to coral reef conservation.
“In the past two years, Hawai`i’s coral reefs have experienced two serious coral bleaching events, and with rising ocean temperatures, we can expect these events to become more commonplace,” Hirono said. “There is much to be learned about mitigation and the long-term effects of coral bleaching, and this legislation will spur research to better protect this precious natural resource.”
Hirono said coral reef ecosystems are marine biodiversity hotspots that provide food for millions of people and also protect our shorelines from storms and erosion. Coral reefs in Hawai`i alone are worth $385 million per year to the local economy, and taking into account all of the services, they have a net present value of $10 billion.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has declared a worldwide coral bleaching event that will impact 95 percent of U.S. coral reefs, including reefs in Hawai`i. Long-term coral bleaching leaves reefs vulnerable to disease outbreaks and death.

Coral reefs, which are being damaged by bleaching events,
contribute millions to Hawai`i's economy.
Photo from XL Catlain Seaview Survey

This no-cost bill would encourage the 12 federal agencies on the U.S. Coral Reef Task Force, which includes NOAA, the Coast Guard and the Department of Defense, to collaboratively use existing funds across agencies to carry out a competitive prize competition. The legislation also allows the federal agencies to work with private entities to both fund and administer the prize competitions. Prize competitions that encourage public-private partnerships like this have a history of incentivizing innovative research that can be integrated into a Federal ocean management strategy.

“Ocean Conservancy applauds Sen. Hirono and Rep. (Mark) Takai for their leadership in protecting coral reefs and the livelihoods that depend on them,” said Julia Roberson, director of Ocean Conservancy’s Ocean Acidification Program. “Corals are under threat from ocean acidification, bleaching and warming, and yet reef fisheries support thousands of our fishermen, and millions of Americans travel every year to marvel at the beauty of coral ecosystems. The Coral Reef Sustainability Through Innovation Act applies American ingenuity to tackle some of the most pressing problems our corals face.”
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HAWAIIAN VOLCANO OBSERVATORY scientists discuss vog in the current issue of Volcano Watch.
“The first few months of 2016 have brought a range of wind and weather conditions to the Island of Hawai`i,” the article states. “As is typical during strong El Niño events, there’s been a notable absence of trade winds and minimal rainfall. Periods of Kona winds (winds with a southerly component) interspersed with light and variable winds have brought noxious volcanic pollution (vog) to many parts of the island, as well as to our neighbor islands to the northwest.
“Vog forms as volcanic gases bubble out of Kilauea’s active lava lake at Halema`uma`u and from the vents and lava flows in and around Pu`u `O`o. The main culprit in the formation of vog is sulfur dioxide gas (SO2), which is released in ample supply from the volcano. In 2015, Kilauea released roughly 800,000 metric tons of the pungent gas, more than five times the amount released by the dirtiest coal-burning power plant in the United States.

The summit of Mauna Loa rises above a layer of vog.
Photo from USGS/HVO

“The voluminous visible plumes emitted from Kilauea are composed mainly of water vapor, carbon dioxide and sulfur dioxide gases, as well as small amounts of ash, other gases and particles. SO2 gas is invisible, but once released from the volcano, it reacts chemically in the atmosphere to form tiny liquid acid droplets and fine solid particles. These particles fall into a category of air pollution referred to as PM2.5, particulate matter with diameters of 2.5 microns (0.0001 inch) or less – smaller than the diameter of one strand of a spider’s web or of a human hair. These tiny particles, which are good at scattering light, are largely responsible for the visible haze associated with vog.

“The term ‘vog’ is generic, with the actual proportion of gases and particles dependent on how much time it has had to react in the atmosphere. Close to the gas emission sources, vog can contain significant amounts of unreacted SO2 gas. The longer SO2 gas has to react in the atmosphere, the more complete the SO2 gas to particle conversion is. So, farther away from the volcano, vog is composed primarily of particles.
“The dual gas and/or particle nature of vog means that people are exposed to different vog cocktails, depending on location. In areas closer to Kilauea, such as Ocean View and Pahala, which are downwind of the volcano during prevailing northeasterly trade winds, people are chronically exposed to a mixture of SO2 gas and particles. During non-trade wind conditions, communities in the Hilo and Puna districts are frequently voggy, and, because they are relatively close to the emission sources, there is also a mixture of SO2 gas and particles in the vog. On neighbor islands, and in communities on the western and northern areas of Hawai`i Island, people are mainly exposed to particles.

The Volcano Measurement & Prediction Project
forecasts vog.

“According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, high concentrations of SO2 gas and particles can cause a variety of effects, including aggravation of existing heart and lung disease, increased asthma symptoms, emergency department visits and hospital admissions for respiratory illnesses. Even healthy people can experience eye, nose and throat irritation, coughing, phlegm, chest tightness and shortness of breath.

“In Hawai`i, current vog concentrations are expected to have the highest impact on sensitive populations – people with preexisting medical conditions, the elderly and children. However, minor symptoms are reported by many people exposed to vog, consistent with the effects expected from SO2 and particle exposures.
“Many websites provide information on current SO2 gas and particle conditions, protective actions for when pollution levels are elevated and other air quality data.
“The Hawai`i Department of Health provides 15-minute SO2 gas concentration data at www.hiso2index.info and PM2.5 data at http://emdweb.doh.hawaii.gov/air-quality/. PM2.5 data and advice are also available through the multi-agency AirNow website (www.airnow.gov).
“SO2 gas and PM2.5 data for Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park are available at http://www.hawaiiso2network.com/.
“The Volcano Measurement and Prediction Project (weather.hawaii.edu/vmap/) provides a modeled two-day forecast for volcanic SO2 gas and particles.
“Finally, the International Volcanic Health Hazard Network (www.ivhhn.org) provides additional information.
“Kilauea continues to release large amounts of volcanic gas each day. Learning to identify when vog is present and how to protect ourselves and our families is a sensible adaptation to living with the active volcano in our backyard.”
See hvo.wr.usgs.gov.
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DEMONSTRATIONS OF VARIOUS Hawaiian games take place tomorrow from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Kilauea Visitor Center's lanai in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. Free; park entrance fees apply.

NA`ALEHU PUBLIC LIBRARY hosts a free Blacksmithing Demonstration tomorrow at 2 p.m. All ages are welcome; young children must be accompanied by an adult.
Call 939-2442 for more information.

DISCOVERY HARBOUR COMMUNITY Association accepts items for its upcoming Volunteer Fire Department rummage sale tomorrow and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The sale takes place Friday and Saturday.

For more information, call 929-9576.

HAWAI`I HUMANE SOCIETY meets with Ka`u residents Thursday at 6 p.m. at Ocean View Community Center. Representatives discuss available programs and resources. For more information, call Roxy at 329-1175.

THURSDAY IS THE FINAL DAY to register for Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary’s last 2016 count of the mammals. Volunteers gather on Saturday to count and record whales’ behavior at various locations, including Miloli`i, Ka Lae, Punalu`u and Ka`ena Point. See sanctuaryoceancount.org.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

See kaucalendar.com/KauCalendar_March_2016.pdf.

See kaucalendar.com/TheDirectory2016.html.

Three Mountain Alliance encourages Ka`u teachers to participate in a place-based learning workshop next month. Here, Volcano School of Arts & Sciences students learn about native species at The Nature Conservancy's Kaiholena Preserve in the mountains of Ka`u.
See more below. Photo from TMA

A BILL TO KEEP OLD PLANTATION WATER in farmers’ hands passed the Senate Committee on Water, Land & Agriculture this week and would be good for three years. Ka`u’s state Sen. Russell Ruderman said the bill was designed to keep water in the hands of Alexander & Baldwin on Maui, where court decisions have directed the state to put the water back in streams following the shutdown of the sugar company there.

The possibility of having water permits cancelled put fear into the Ka`u agriculture community. At the request of the Hawai`i Farm Bureau, several flew to O`ahu to testify at the Legislature.

Sen. Russell Ruderman

Ruderman said he received an opinion from the attorney general saying that cancellation of permits would have only affected A&B on Maui and not Ka`u agriculture. He told the Honolulu Star-Advertiser that the legislation to extend water permits “only benefits one company who has taken advantage of their situation for a very long time.”

Ruderman told the Star-Advertiser that A&B used “fear mongering” to convince farmers and ranchers that they would be affected. Five of the nine state revocable water permits are in Ka`u, Ruderman noted. He told Star-Advertiser reporter Kevin Dayton, “I care about those guys a lot, and I work closely with them. I’m clear in my belief that the court ruling does not apply to them, and they’re not in jeopardy of losing their revocable permit.”
The Star-Advertiser reporter wrote: “Ruderman said lawmakers ought not to reward a ‘bad actor’ that diverted water for 100 years and allowed streams to run dry. They don’t need this water, and if they do need it, they can pay a fair market value.'”
Dayton reported that several senators expressed concern about the bill, which may signal problems the Ways and Means Committee considers it.
WLA Committee Chair Mike Gabbard told Dayton he wanted to keep the bill alive to allow more time to sort through the issue. “It was a tough one because both sides of the issue gave very strong arguments,” Gabbard said. He said the concerns raised “need to be addressed, need to be a part of the solution for water rights on Maui and across the state.”
According to Dayton, Gabbard said BLNR needs more time to resolve the issue of revocable permits, and a task force is working to do that.
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Volcano tea grower Eva Lee asks Ka`u residents to support
geographical region designations. Photo from Volcano Art Center

GEOGRAPHICAL REGION DESIGNATIONS for tea would be instituted by a resolution under consideration at the state Legislature. Ka`u’s state Sen. Russell Ruderman co-introduced SCR129 encouraging the state Department of Agriculture to adopt standards established by the tea industry to define geographical region designations for tea grown in the state.

The resolution is the first in the nation regarding tea origin. “The Hawai`i state government is taking the lead in bringing us closer to establishing true origin geographic indicators for Hawai`i tea industry,” Volcano tea grower Eva Lee said. “It is through this initiative that Hawai`i tea growers marketing Hawai`i-grown tea will assure the public the origin authenticity. Origin Pride initiative is the founding basis in awarding excellence for domestically grown tea. State by state, we hope that local governments will engage with regional tea growers for official origin recognition, furthering the U.S. domestic tea industry.”
A hearing on the resolution is scheduled on March 28 at 3 p.m. “We hope that you will support this resolution by submitting a written testimonial,” Lee said. Testify at capitol.hawaii.gov by March 27, the deadline.
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Flags remain at half-staff until sunset Saturday.

NATIONAL AND STATE FLAGS are at half-staff at the state Capitol and all state offices and agencies as well as the Hawai`i National Guard. President Obama issued the order as a mark of respect for victims of acts of violence perpetrated yesterday in Brussels, Belgium. The flags will be flown at half-staff until sunset on March 26.

“It saddens me that this international surge of terrorism has become the ‘new normal’ that can happen anywhere at any time,” Gov. David Ige said. “Our thoughts and prayers are with those who were injured in the attacks in Brussels, and we send our deepest condolences to the victims of this tragedy and their families.”
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HAWAI`I DEMOCRAT PARTY JOINS the race to the White House this Saturday at 1 p.m. with its own version of the Presidential Preference Polls, like Iowa and New Hampshire. Democrats across the islands are invited to attend their precinct meetings and cast their votes among candidates Hillary Rodham Clinton, Roque De la Fuente and Bernie Sanders. Also on the ballot is Martin O`Malley, who suspended his campaign. Hawai`i has 34 delegates, 16 of which are district delegates to win the nomination at the Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia.
Ka`u Democrats in precincts 03-07 and 05-01 cast ballots at Pahala Community Center, and those in precincts 05-02, 05-03 and 05-04 vote at Ocean View Community Center. Doors open at 12 p.m.
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Ka`u teachers can sign up for next month's place-based learning
workshop with TMA Outreach and Education Specialist
Lahela Camara. Photo from TMA

THREE MOUNTAIN ALLIANCE is looking for educators who would like to engage students in place-based learning. TMA is hosting a teacher enrichment opportunity to connect educators with relevant environmental education sites and activities. The event will give teachers an opportunity to participate in native forest restoration by planting native trees and shrubs. Teachers also will visit Keauhou Bird Conservation Center, home to Hawai`i’s most endangered birds, including the `alala, or Hawaiian Crow, which is currently extinct in the wild. Both activities can serve as possible field trip opportunities.

TMA will share existing curricula and lesson plan resources that can be incorporated into classroom learning for all grade levels and subjects. Lessons focus on topics such as Hawai`i’s native species, ecosystems, watersheds and cultural knowledge.
The event takes place on April 23 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Kamehameha Schools’ Keauhou Forest in Ka`u.
To register, contact Lahela Camara at lahelacamara@gmail.com. Priority registration deadline is April 8. To learn more about TMA teacher engagement, see threemountainalliance.org/teachers.
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KILAUEA DRAMA & ENTERTAINMENT Network presents The Bible: The Complete Word of God (abridged) over the next two weekends. This comic adventure into the quirks and conundrums of the Bible opens Friday and plays through Sunday, April 3, Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 and Sundays at 2:30. Kilauea Military Camp Theater in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park is the venue.

The premise is fairly straightforward: Present the books of the Bible in chronological order. “With 39 books in the Old Testament and 27 books in the New Testament, it’s easy to imagine that two hours just isn’t enough time,” Director Suzi Bond said. “And this is where it gets funny. The subject is one that’s liable to cause some to bristle at its treatment of the Bible. But, this is where it’s important to emphasize that the show is about the Bible, not Christianity, or Judaism or Islam – or any religion. They even go out of their way to clarify that.”
Tickets are $15 general, $12 for students and seniors and $10 for children 12 and under. Reservations can be made by calling KDEN at 982-7344 or by email at kden73@aol.com.

Park entrance fees may apply.

A rummage sale this weekend supports Discovery Harbour
Volunteer Fire Department. Photo from DHVFD

DISCOVERY HARBOUR COMMUNITY Association accepts items for this weekend’s Volunteer Fire Department rummage sale today and tomorrow from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information, call 929-9576.

HAWAI`I HUMANE SOCIETY meets with Ka`u residents tomorrow at 6 p.m. at Ocean View Community Center. Representatives discuss available programs and resources.
For more information, call Roxy at 329-1175.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

See kaucalendar.com/KauCalendar_March_2016.pdf.

See kaucalendar.com/TheDirectory2016.pdf.

Ocean View blacksmith Richard Blaine explains his craft to the audience while he and assistants and practitioners create items during yesterday's demonstration at Na`alehu Public Library. Photos by Ron Johnson

RAPID `OHI`A DEATH, which has spread from Puna to Volcano, Ka`u and Kona, is likely spread when beetles burrow into dead trees, Bret Yager reported in West Hawai`i Today.

J.B. Friday, an extension forester with University of Hawai`i Cooperative Extension Service, told Yager that burrowing ambrosia beetles create dust that can be carried up to two miles by prevailing winds, which he said would help explain why the fungus hasn’t made it to Hamakua or Kohala.

Beetles are being blamed for spreading rapid `ohi`a death.
Photo from UH-CTAHR

Reseachers suggest that landowners have dead trees cut down and cover the debris to prevent infestation by beetles.

Dust can also be carried by people who visit infected `ohi`a forests. To avoid movement of the dust, researchers also urge people to clean shoes, tools and clothing before leaving such areas.
Lisa Keith, a research plant pathologist with the U.S. Department of Agriculture in Hilo, told Yager, “The fungus might have come in on some nursery plants, certain changes might have occurred, and a new very susceptible host – `ohi`a – became infected.”

Hawai`i Department of Agriculture is informing hula halau traveling to Hawai`i Island for next week’s Merrie Monarch Festival that the very act of harvesting `ohi`a may spread the disease, as spores may be carried in soil and by vehicles, shoes and clothing to uninfected areas.
“`Ohi`a is one of the most important trees in our native forests and has such cultural significance,” said Scott Enright, chairperson of Hawai`i Board of Agriculture.
See westhawaiitoday.com.
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Mayor Billy Kenoi

HAWAI`I COUNTY MAYOR Billy Kenoi has been indicted by a grand jury. The charges arose from alleged conduct taking place from 2011 through 2015 during his tenure as mayor.

The charges are:

Counts 1 and 2: Theft in the Second Degree, Class C felonies each punishable by up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine;
Counts 3 and 4: Theft in the Third Degree, misdemeanors each punishable by up to one year in jail and a $2,000 fine;
Counts 5, 6 and 7: Tampering with a Government Record, misdemeanors each punishable by up to one year in jail and a $2,000 fine; and
Count 8: False Swearing, a petty misdemeanor punishable by up to 30 days in jail and a $1,000 fine.

State Attorney General Doug Chin said his department “sought this indictment after an intensive investigation that lasted almost a year. I thank the investigators and prosecutors for their efforts.”
Kenoi was arrested and released on his own recognizance. He remains Mayor of the County of Hawai`i. An indictment is a finding of probable cause and is not a criminal conviction. Kenoi is presumed innocent unless and until he is found guilty of the charges beyond reasonable doubt.
“The county is not out one penny. Mayor Kenoi has not enriched himself one penny,” Honolulu attorney Todd Eddins told John Burnett, of Hawai`i Tribune-Herald. “It is factually and legally feeble to claim that Billy Kenoi stole from his hometown.”
Todd Belt, a political science professor at the University of Hawaii at Hilo, told the Tribune-Herald, “Past history shows that the mayor is a fighter. I fully expect he will fight these charges. The outcome of this case is what matters to his political career.”

See hawaiitribune-herald.com.

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`O KA`U KA`U THANKS all of the many volunteers from Ka Lae Quilters and Ka`u Red Hat Ladies to the Ka`u Hospital Charitable Foundation for their help in putting on the very successful Spaghetti Dinner fundraiser for the hospital held on Feb. 27. Through everyone’s efforts, they sold 329 dinner tickets for a total of $3,290 dollars. With all of the donations and items sold in the auction, craft and bake sale, there was a total $6,212.49 raised for the Hospital Foundation.

Tui Masanai and Harry Evangelista provided entertainment, and a fun time was had by all. “Thank you to the Ka`u community for supporting this great event,” OKK Secretary Nadine Ebert said.

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A blacksmith shapes an iron rod after heating
it in a cylindrical oven.

LEAVES, POKERS AND KNIFES were items forged by blacksmiths during a free demonstration at Na`alehu Public Library yesterday. Ocean View residents Richard and Schaunlee Blaine used heat from a charcoal grill to make iron malleable, while David Brunetta and Ian Bailey used a cylindrical oven powered by propane.

Brunetta, a professional knife maker, created a knife with a twisted handle and guard, then intentionally broke it so the audience could see the inside.
The Blaines offered their leaves to keiki as thanks for attending. The library received a poker that library manager Sara Kamibayashi said will be framed and displayed.
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KA`U SCENIC BYWAY COMMITTEE invites residents to its blessing of the new three-sided informational kiosk sign at Na`alehu Park Monday, March 28 at 2 p.m. Ka`u's County Council member Maile David and past Council member Brenda Ford, along with others who contributed to the creation of the kiosk, will be in attendance.
This is the first three-sided informational sign in the state. The panels display maps and photos of the byway and the Na`alehu area, along with historical photos and stories of Na`alehu, Wai`ohinu and Honu`apo. The 1868 earthquake, the history of sugar and coffee in Ka`u and the historic Fourth of July celebration in Na`alehu Park are also included.

Drop off items for Discovery Harbour's fundraiser rummage
sale today. Photo from DHCA

DISCOVERY HARBOUR COMMUNITY Association accepts items today until 4 p.m. for this weekend’s Volunteer Fire Department rummage sale.

For more information, call 929-9576.

KILAUEA DRAMA & ENTERTAINMENT Network presents The Bible: The Complete Word of God (abridged) over the next two weekends. Curtain time at Kilauea Military Camp Theater in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park on Fridays and Saturdays is 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2:30 p.m. is the venue.
Tickets are $15 general, $12 for students and seniors and $10 for children 12 and under. Reservations can be made at 982-7344 or kden73@aol.com.
Park entrance fees may apply.

HAWAIIAN CIVIC CLUB OF KA`U invites residents to enjoy Prince Kuhio Day at Na`alehu Park on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Opening pule is at 8:45 a.m., followed by announcements and greetings, arrival of the Royal Court and entertainment. There will be food, arts and crafts, exhibits, photos, cultural demonstrations, Hawaiian games more.
For more information, contact Darlyne at 640-8407 or dvierra22@gmail.com or Liz at 339-0289 or konawaileo@yahoo.com.

Nene habitat stewardship takes place
Saturday. Photo from NPS

GUIDED HIKES AT HAWAI`I VOLCANOES National Park take place this weekend at the summit and at Kahuku.

A centennial hike to protect nene and Devastation Trail begins at 9 a.m. Saturday at Devastation Trail parking lot. Join park staff to malama a section of Devastation Trail that provides important nene habitat by removing knotweed and other invasive plants. Park entrance fees apply.
Participants discover the Hawaiian goddesses Hi`iaka and Pele and the natural phenomena they represent on a moderate one-mile walk Saturday at the Kahuku Unit from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.
On Sunday at 9:30 a.m., also at Kahuku, participants learn about the formation and various uses of the grassy cinder cone Pu`u o Lokuana and enjoy a breathtaking view of lower Ka`u. The one-hour, free program is a moderately difficult 0.4-mile hike to the top.

HAWAI`I’S DEMOCRATIC PRESIDENTIAL Preference Poll takes place Saturday at 1 p.m. Ka`u Democrats in precincts 03-07 and 05-01 cast ballots at Pahala Community Center, and those in precincts 05-02, 05-03 and 05-04 vote at Ocean View Community Center. Doors open at 12 p.m.

JAZZ IN THE FOREST CONTINUES Saturday, featuring vocalist Ron Murphy with Volcano Art Center’s Jazz Ensemble.

Murphy’s music is a combination of the American Song Book along with a tribute to Joe Williams called A Cup Of Joe, performing some of his most noted songs. He also performs music of Billy Eckstein, Johnny Hartman, Duke Ellington, Arthur Prysock, Frank Sinatra and many of the Ladies of Song, including Billy Holiday, Sarah Vaughn, Ella Fitzgerald, Bette Carter and Dinah Washington.
Two shows are offered, with a matinee at 4:30 p.m. and an evening performance at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $20 for VAC members and $25 for non-members. Tickets are available through tomorrow at VAC’s Administration Office in Volcano Village, VAC Gallery in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park and online at volcanoartcenter.org. After that, tickets will be sold at the door if they are not sold out. Tickets will be held at Will Call on the day of the show.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

See kaucalendar.com/KauCalendar_March_2016.pdf.

See kaucalendar.com/TheDirectory2016.html.

Hike to the summit of Pu`u o Lokuana tomorrow. See more below. NPS Photo by Michael Szoenyi

KA`U’S HAWAI`I COUNTY COUNCIL member Maile David joined several other members in deferring to the judicial process regarding any actions on Mayor Billy Kenoi’s indictment, Tom Callis reported in Hawai`i Tribune-Herald. Hawai`i Attorney General announced this week that, following a one-year investigation, a grand jury indicted Kenoi on charges related to personal use of his county purchasing card.

Statements from council members followed Hawai`i County Board of Ethics’ decision to hear a complaint against Kenoi related to his P-card use. The board initially deferred the complaint during the state attorney general’s investigation.
According to Callis, council members cited the need for due process, Kenoi’s having “done much good,” positive working relationships and the “need to stay focused on our responsibilities to our community.”
However, Kohala Council member Margaret Wille told Callis she may bring up the issue at a meeting in April. “If you ignore something that’s wrong, in my view you become part of the problem,” she said.
See hawaiitribune-herald.com.
To read comments, add your own and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar.

HAWAI`I’S DEMOCRATIC PRESIDENTIAL Preference Poll takes place tomorrow during the party’s precinct meetings beginning at 1 p.m. Ka`u Democrats in precincts 03-07 and 05-01 cast ballots at Pahala Community Center, and those in precincts 05-02, 05-03 and 05-04 vote at Ocean View Community Center. Volcano Democrats vote at Kea`au Community Center. Doors at each open at 12 p.m.

Voting wraps up when the meeting ends. To be included, Democrats and those wishing to register and join the party are advised to arrive before the meetings begin.
See hawaiidemocrats.org for more information.
See below for information about the two major candidates.
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Tom Peek

VOLCANO AUTHOR TOM PEEK, who wrote the award-winning Daughters of Fire novel about Hawai`i, has released an opinion piece comparing the major Democratic presidential candidates that was published recently in the online news service Civil Beat.

Civil Beat summarizes Peek’s view that “Sanders in many ways represents the Democratic Party’s historic commitment to liberal economic policies, and Clinton, right-leaning party policies of the past 30 years.”
“U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont carries the torch for restoring the party’s traditional liberal economic policies,” Peek wrote. “That he’s battling longtime party icon and former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton couldn’t be more appropriate.
“Her husband, former President Bill Clinton, and his comrades in the Democratic Leadership Council spearheaded the move away from the economic populism Democrats had championed for 50 years following the Great Depression. …
“The fruits of 30 years of almost unfettered corporate power and an imminent threat of oligarchy set the stage for Sanders, who is old enough to remember what the Democratic Party once stood for and who has given Democrats an opportunity to resurrect something they lost long ago. ...

“Even if Sanders fails to wrestle the presidential nomination from the party establishment’s favored candidate, his call for economic and social justice likely will persist, carried forward by the young people he's drawn into his campaign.”

Sen. Bernie Sanders

See civilbeat.com.

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EXPANDING RIGHTS AND OPPORTUNITIES of Native Hawaiians is part of U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders’ presidential campaign platform. Release of the platform followed a visit to Hawai`i by his wife Jane Sanders earlier this week, during which she met with Native Hawaiian community members.

“I am proud to stand with Native Hawaiians as they fight to protect their rights and improve their quality of life,” the candidate said. “The overthrow of the Kingdom of Hawai`i was a shameful act, rooted in the type of corporate greed with which we are still too familiar. Its devastating effects on the community are still being felt to this day. If I am elected President, the right to self-determination and self-governance will rest in the hands of Native Hawaiians, without interference from the federal government. Native Hawaiians have been lied to and cheated, and the United States government must do everything it can to right these grave injustices.”
See more at berniesanders.com/issues/native-hawaiians.

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RAISING MIDDLE-CLASS INCOMES is part of presidential candidate Hillary Clinton’s campaign platform. In order to accomplish that goal, Clinton calls for “strong growth, fair growth and long-term growth.”

Her plan for strong growth calls for expanding employment opportunities, provide tax relief for small businesses and the middle class, enacting comprehensive immigration reform, making America the world’s clean energy leader, increasing private and public investment, funding scientific and medical research, establishing an infrastructure bank, breaking down barriers to joining the workforce and guaranteeing college affordability and expanding job training opportunities.

Sec. Hillary Clinton

Clinton has put forward a small-business agenda to expand access to capital, provide tax relief, cut red tape and help small businesses bring their goods to new markets. Her New College Compact would invest $350 billion so that students do not have to borrow to pay tuition at a public college in their state. Her plan would also significantly cut interest rates on student loans.
Fair growth planks include encouraging companies to share profits with employees, expanding overtime, raising the minimum wage, fighting wage theft, strengthening the Affordable Care Act, supporting unions and collective bargaining, reforming tax codes to increase amounts from the wealthiest, expanding early learning, investing in students and teachers and providing pathways into the middle class.
Clinton said she believes workers are long overdue for a raise of the minimum wage. She has supported raising the federal minimum wage to $12 and believes that the country should go further than the federal minimum through state and local efforts, and organizing and bargaining for higher wages.
Long-term growth includes reforming capital taxes to encourage investing for the long-term instead of the short-term, increasing workers’ pay along with benefits and training, focusing on long-term instead of short-term investments, imposing accountability on Wall Street and lowering health care costs.
“We need an economy where companies plan for the long run and invest in their workers through increased wages and better training – leading to higher productivity, better service and larger profits,” Clinton said. She would revamp the capital gains tax to reward farsighted investments that create jobs. She would address the rising influence of the kinds of so-called “activist” shareholders that focus on short-term profits at the expense of long-term growth, and reform executive compensation to better align the interests of executives with long-term value.

See hillaryclinton.com for more information.

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This weekend's rummage sale supports Discovery Harbour
Volunteer Fire Department. Photo from DHVFD

DISCOVERY HARBOUR COMMUNITY Association raises funds for its Volunteer Fire Department with a rummage sale today and tomorrow from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information, call 929-9576.

KILAUEA DRAMA & ENTERTAINMENT Network presents The Bible: The Complete Word of God (abridged) over the next two weekends. Curtain time at Kilauea Military Camp Theater in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park on Fridays and Saturdays is 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2:30 p.m.
Reservations can be made at 982-7344 or kden73@aol.com.

HAWAIIAN CIVIC CLUB OF KA`U invites residents to enjoy Prince Kuhio Day at Na`alehu Park tomorrow from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
For more information, contact Darlyne at 640-8407 or dvierra22@gmail.com or Liz at 339-0289 or konawaileo@yahoo.com.

Learn about Hi`iaka and Pele on a walk tomorrow.
Photo from NPS

GUIDED HIKES AT HAWAI`I VOLCANOES National Park take place this weekend at the summit and at Kahuku.

A centennial hike to protect nene and Devastation Trail begins at 9 a.m. tomorrow at Devastation Trail parking lot. Participants remove knotweed and other invasive plants. Park entrance fees apply.
Participants discover the Hawaiian goddesses Hi`iaka and Pele and the natural phenomena they represent on a moderate one-mile walk tomorrow at the Kahuku Unit from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.
On Sunday at 9:30 a.m., also at Kahuku, participants learn about the formation and various uses of the grassy cinder cone Pu`u o Lokuana and enjoy a breathtaking view of lower Ka`u. The one-hour, free program is a moderately difficult 0.4-mile hike to the top. Entry to Kahuku is free

GARAGE SALE IN VOLCANO, sponsored by Halau Kalehuaki'eki'eika'iu, is tomorrow, Saturday, March 26, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Pukeawe Circle in Volcano Golf Course Subdivision. From Hwy 11, turn at Piimauna Dr. & follow the signs. There will be bargains, treasures, knick-knacks, clothing, books, household items, plants and many other "good kine stuffs" for sale. For sale will be baked goodies from talented halau members and Aunty Puaʻs Na Mea Ono. Call 967-8299 for information.

JAZZ IN THE FOREST CONTINUES Saturday, featuring vocalist Ron Murphy with Volcano Art Center’s Jazz Ensemble.
Two shows are offered, with a matinee at 4:30 p.m. and an evening performance at 7:30 p.m.

See volcanoartcenter.org.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

See kaucalendar.com/KauCalendar_March_2016.pdf.

See kaucalendar.com/TheDirectory2016.html.

Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park has received funding to preserve Ka`u lands that are being sold by Mana Land Co. to a Florida-based company. Photos from Mana Land Co.

LANDS SOUGHT FOR INCLUSION in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park are being sold to a Florida company, according to Ken Fujiyama, whose group purchased the thousands of makai acres between Pahala and Volcano years ago from the now-defunct C. Brewer sugar company. Fujiyama this morning declined to state the name of the Florida company and said that “some things have to be worked out” before the sale is final.
The land is the subject of a case in Judge Greg Nakamura’s Third Circuit Court involving a creditor and vetting of the Florida company purchasing the property.

The National Park Service wants to purchase 1,951 acres of the property with funding approved in its 2016 budget. Fujiyama, former operator of Volcano House hotel leased from Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park, purchased the Great Crack lands from C. Brewer after the park showed interest.

A volcanic feature on Ka`u acreage being sold.

The properties remain listed for sale by Fujiyama’s Mana Land Co. One 70.03-acre parcel is offered at $3.85 million, described as a “favorite fishing area for many `ulua” fishermen. Another 27.05-acre parcel is listed at $1.755 million, described as “a totally stress-free environment that people dream about but rarely ever find.” Another 272.28 acres is listed for $2.983 million. It “butts against the National Park wilderness area,” the listing says.

Another 1,537 acres are listed for $8.45 million. “Beautiful, barren and totally isolated, this oceanfront property is so unique that the National Park Service has this listed on their ‘to acquire’ property. Owner does not have to sell to the National Park,” the listing states. It says, “The fishing is fantastic along this coastline. There are three small ancient Hawaiian pads, a few petroglyphs and a few small historical sites on this property. There is a 300-foot conservation area setback and a 500-foot Special Management Area district setback from the coastline. The remaining area is zoned agriculture-20 acres. The top of the property sits at the 1,000-feet elevation and is three miles to the coastline. The oceanfront boundary is over a mile long.”
The 2016 National Park Service budget for acquisition of the 1,951 acres around theGreat Crack area requires an appraisal and title search, as well as the property still being for sale. The Park Service is prohibited by law from purchasing any land at a higher price than its appraisal.
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U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz

AS THE OUTBREAK OF MOSQUITO-BORNE viruses such as Zika and dengue continue to threaten Hawai`i and communities in the United States and around the world, U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz led eight senators in calling on the Senate Appropriations Committee, of which Schatz is a member, to increase funding for mosquito-control programs.

“Increased support for vector-control programs at the CDC can help to control the populations of Aedes mosquitoes that transmit viruses such as Zika, dengue, West Nile and other arboviral diseases to humans and animals,” the senators wrote. “In addition to the supplemental Zika request, we respectfully request at least a doubling of the vector-borne diseases line to at least $55 million, within the National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.”
Next month, Schatz will visit the CDC headquarters in Georgia to meet with Director Tom Frieden and discuss the Center’s efforts to fight the growing outbreaks of Zika and dengue.

Yesterday, Hawai`i Department of Health reported that one of 263 dengue fever cases confirmed during the current outbreak on Hawai`i Island remains potentially infectious to mosquitoes.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Marion Kittleson-Villanueva shared Ka`u's Puerto Rican heritage
at Ka`u Plantation Days. Photo by Julia Neal

MARION KITTLESON-VILLANUEVA, a former Pahala resident, has completed her first book, writing under the pen name Marion Louise.

Mr. Kiko Searches for Aloha is a children’s picture book, for ages four to eight, which the author described as having “cultural implications and highlighting the values of individual differences. In the story, the coqui, a singing tree frog of Puerto Rican fame, finds himself as a misfit in Hawai`i. Not by choice, Kiko faces the other species in the rainforest and comes to know true rejection. Will there ever be any aloha for this new arrival?”

Kittleson-Villanueva, a retired teacher and librarian, was born in Hawai`i of Puerto Rican and Portuguese decent. She has traveled to Puerto Rico several times and has worked on many projects to perpetuate the Puerto Rican experience in Hawai`i. The author shared Ka`u’s Puerto Rican heritage at past Ka`u Plantation Days at Pahala Plantation House. As president of the Puerto Rican Heritage Society of Hawai`i, she unveiled a historical plaque in Quanica Bay commemorating the exodus of Puerto Ricans to Hawai`i in the 1900s. As chair of Boricua Hawaiiana, she coordinated and organized an educational exhibit capturing the emigration of 5,000 Puerto Rican sugar laborers in Hawai`i from 1900 to 1910. The exhibit has traveled throughout Hawai`i and was featured at the Plaza de Americas in San Juan, PR. The author was also a member of a committee that spearheaded rededication of the Cartwright Monument at Francis Wong Stadium in Hilo.

Kittleson-Villanueva suggested that the intercultural story would be an excellent selection for schools’ Book of the Month. It is available at amazon.com, barnesandnoble.com and authorhouse.com.
Contact her at 938-8774 or kumumarion@gmail.com.
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KAUAHA`AO CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH in Wai`ohinu will be having a fundraising Mini-Bazaar on Saturday, April 30 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the church grounds. The church is located at Mamalahoa Hwy, Kama`oa Road and Pinao Street just above the Wong Yuen Store and Gas Station.
Individuals, schools, clubs and athletic groups are invited to be vendors. The charge for a 10’x10’ space is $10. Vendors are responsible for bringing their own tents, tables and chairs, and if power is needed, generators. Vendors can sell anything except hot foods and plate lunches.
The church will be selling plate lunches and containers of kalua pig, as well as baked goods.
For more information and to reserve a vendor space, call Walter Wong Yuen in the evenings after 7 p.m. at 928-8039.

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Eunice Hashimoto and Lucy Makuakane with U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard.
Photo from Julie Pasquale

NA`ALEHU SENIOR CITIZENS Eunice Hashimoto and Lucy Makuakane, along with their Hilo teammates, will represent the state of Hawai`i at the 65 and Over National Tennis Tournament in Phoenix, Arizona in April. They also were honored to recently meet U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard at the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program Recognition Luncheon held in Hilo.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar.

DISCOVERY HARBOUR COMMUNITY Association’s fundraising rummage sale continues today until 4 p.m. Proceeds go to the community’s volunteer fire department.

For more information, call 929-9576.

A GARAGE SALE IN VOLCANO raises funds for Halau Kalehuaki`eki`eika`iu today until 2 p.m. From Hwy 11, turn at Pi`imauna Drive and follow the signs.

HAWAIIAN CIVIC CLUB OF KA`U invites residents to enjoy Prince Kuhio Day at Na`alehu Park today until 3 p.m. The Royal Court arrived after this morning’s opening pule. The celebration includes food, arts and crafts, exhibits, photos, cultural demonstrations, Hawaiian games and much more.

For more information, contact Darlyne at 640-8407 or dvierra22@gmail.com or Liz at 339-0289 or konawaileo@yahoo.com.

HAWAI`I’S DEMOCRATIC PRESIDENTIAL Preference Poll begins at 1 p.m. today. Ka`u Democrats in precincts 03-07 and 05-01 cast ballots at Pahala Community Center, and those in precincts 05-02, 05-03 and 05-04 vote at Ocean View Community Center. Volcano Democrats vote at Kea`au Community Center. Doors at each open at 12 p.m.

Voting wraps up when the meeting ends. To be included, Democrats and those wishing to register and join the party are advised to arrive before the meetings begin.
See hawaiidemocrats.org for more information.

KILAUEA DRAMA & ENTERTAINMENT Network presents The Bible: The Complete Word of God (abridged) at Kilauea Military Camp Theater in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park today at 7:30 p.m. and tomorrow at 2:30 p.m.

Make reservations at 982-7344 or kden73@aol.com.

Volcano Art Center presents Jazz in the Forest today.

JAZZ IN THE FOREST CONTINUES today, featuring vocalist Ron Murphy with Volcano Art Center’s Jazz Ensemble. Two shows are offered, with a matinee at 4:30 p.m. and an evening performance at 7:30 p.m.

See volcanoartcenter.org.

KILAUEA MILITARY CAMP CELEBRATES Easter tomorrow. An Easter Egg Hunt begins at 9 a.m. in the `Ohi`a Room for children 10 and under. Preregister at 967-5382.

Crater Rim Cafe serves Easter Brunch from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. Menu includes honey-glazed ham, beef pot roast and more. Adults $16.75; children 6-11 $8.50. Call 967-8356.

KMC is open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests; for more information, call 967-8371. Park entrance fees apply.

PARTICIPANTS LEARN ABOUT the formation and various uses of the grassy cinder cone Pu`u o Lokuana and enjoy a breathtaking view of lower Ka`u tomorrow at 9:30 a.m. at Kahuku Unit of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. The one-hour, free program is a moderately difficult 0.4-mile hike to the top.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

See kaucalendar.com/TheDirectory2016.html.

See kaucalendar.com/KauCalendar_March_2016.pdf.

Ka`u Democrats sign in to be among those voting in Hawai`i's Preferential Preference Poll yesterday.
Photos by Ron Johnson

AS KA`U GOES, SO GOES THE STATE. That’s what happened at yesterday’s Democratic Presidential Preference Poll, when Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders became Hawai`i Democrats’ choice to run for President. Statewide, Sanders took 70 percent of the vote, compared to 30 percent for former New York Senator and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.

Sanders received majorities of over 80 percent in all Ka`u precincts and Volcano. In Ocean View’s precinct 05-02, Sanders received 84 percent, or 145 votes, compared to Clinton’s 28. For Na`alehu’s precinct 05-01, the final was 105-20, also 84 percent. Pahala Democrats in precinct 03-07 went 19-4, or 83 percent, for Sanders. Volcano followed the same path, with Sanders winning 82 percent at 150-34.

Ka`u's state Rep. and Democratic District Rep. Richard Creagan
helped guide proceedings at yesterday's meeting.

Hawai`i Democratic Party reported that 17 of Hawai`i’s delegates for the state convention go to Sanders, and Clinton receives eight. Delegates ultimately decide who the state endorses as the presidential candidate.

The campaign group called “Bernie (not the Billionaires)” issued a statement from Sanders after the Hawai`i win: “I want to thank the people of Hawai`i for their strong support and for turning out in huge numbers for Saturday’s caucuses. Nobody should have any doubt that this campaign has extraordinary momentum and that we have a path toward victory. In state after state, our grassroots effort has taken on the entire political establishment. We have taken on the senators and the governors and the mayors and the members of Congress. Our political revolution is the best chance we have to keep Donald Trump or any other Republican out of the White House.”

Stephanie Ohigashi

“Today’s turnout is a real testament to the hard work and commitment of the Sanders and Clinton campaigns and the engagement of Hawai`i Democrats in the presidential process,” state party Chair Stephanie Ohigashi said. “We saw turnout today reminiscent of 2008 when Hawai`i Democrats broke all records in the contest between Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton.

“I would like to thank all of the volunteers who worked so hard to make to make today successful. From Pahala to Kaumakani, the Democratic Party volunteers and the Presidential campaign representatives demonstrated the very best of the Democratic Party of Hawai`i.”
Official results will be certified by the Democratic Party of Hawai`i State Central Committee within 20 days.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar.

This whale was sighted off Punalu`u in 2015. Photo by Joe Garza

MORE THAN 403 VOLUNTEERS gathered data from the shores of Hawai`i Island, O`ahu and Kaua`i yesterday during the third and final event of the 2016 Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary Ocean Count.

Ocean Count serves to promote public awareness about humpback whales, the sanctuary and shore-based whale watching opportunities. The count is conducted three times per year during peak whale season and provides a snapshot of humpback whales sightings from the shoreline. Participants tally humpback whale sightings and document the animals’ surface behavior during the survey.
Volunteers collected data from 50 sites statewide yesterday. A total of 94 whale sightings were seen during the 9 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. time period, the most of any time period throughout the day’s count. Weather conditions were ideal for viewing humpback whales, but there were very few whales sighted on all three islands.
Preliminary data detailing whale sightings by site location are available at
http://www.sanctuaryoceancount.org/resources/. Additional information is available at http://hawaiihumpbackwhale.noaa.gov.
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An earthquake of similar magnitude struck earlier
in the same area as the 10:38 a.m. quake,
shown as a red dot. Other smaller quakes
are not shown. Map from USGS/HVO

A 2.0 EARTHQUAKE sent dogs diving for cover and left them shaking this morning in Pahala but was barely felt by humans. The micro quake at 10:38 a.m. Easter Sunday was centered 8.8 miles east-northeast of Pahala, makai of Hwy 11 to Volcano. The location is the site of a cluster of quakes in recent days.

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HAWAIIAN VOLCANO OBSERVATORY scientists solve the puzzle of Ka`u’s Ninole Hills in the current issue of Volcano Watch.

“For a long time, geologists were perplexed about the formation of the Ninole Hills and what they represented,” the article states. “The steep sides of the heavily vegetated hills are cut with canyons caused by thousands of years of erosion. Through age dating of the rocks, the hills were estimated to be approximately 125,000 years old.

“Several theories have been put forward to explain the formation of the Ninole Hills. According to one, they are the remnants of an older summit of Mauna Loa or its predecessor volcano, Mohokea. In another theory, faulting and landslides are thought to have formed the hills.

“Recent studies have proposed hypotheses about the Ninole Hills once being the site of active volcanism. Based on regional gravity data, one study suggested the existence of a previously unrecognized rift zone extending south of Mauna Loa’s summit toward the hills. Seismic studies suggested that the Ninole Hills might be a failed rift zone, extending from Mauna Loa’s summit, through the hills and past the coastline toward Pu`u`omahana (Green Sands).

“In 2013, USGS scientists and colleagues from academia embarked on a project using microgravity surveys to understand the origin of the Ninole Hills and to distinguish among competing hypotheses. We chose microgravity because each of the proposed mechanisms for the formation of the Ninole Hills should produce distinct gravitational signatures due to differences in subsurface structure and/or modification.

HVO scientists believe Ka`u's Ninole Hills are part of a failed
rift zone that existed prior to Mauna Loa's current
Southwest Rift Zone. Map from USGS/HVO

“Measuring gravity helps scientists understand the types of rocks that might underlie the area. Using a device called a gravimeter, scientists can measure the amount of gravitational pull on a certain area.

“Gravitational pull varies depending upon location on the Earth’s surface, as well as the types of rock that make up the area. Lava rocks – for example, those from flows near Kalapana – are low-density and, thus, have lower gravity values. The rift zones and summits of volcanoes contain denser rocks due to repeated intrusions that result in magma cooling below ground, so they have a higher gravity signature.
“With the microgravity survey, we found an elongate, northeast-to-southwest positive, or high, gravity anomaly in the region of the hills. If the Ninole Hills represent slump blocks and landslide scarps, they should generate a gravitational low, because lava flows and faulted surfaces are characteristically low-density. Therefore, this hypothesis is not consistent with the data.
“If the Ninole Hills are the location of the summit area of an older volcano, the anticipated gravity signal would be circular and centered above a dense intrusive complex. But the microgravity data instead show an elongate intrusive complex.
“The Ninole Hills and Mauna Loa lava flows show no appreciable difference in chemical composition. So, the possibility that the Ninole Hills are a separate and different volcano is ruled out.
“What does the geology of the hills tell us about their origin? During the course of recent geologic mapping, we noted several north-trending dikes. These dikes – vertical feeders of magma from the subsurface storage reservoir to the surface – were exposed in road cuts on the flanks of several of the Ninole Hills.
“Research on other Hawaiian volcanoes shows that the number of dikes drops rapidly with increasing distance from the rift zones. The presence of dikes in the Ninole Hills and the elongate gravitational high are both consistent with the notion that they were once part of a rift zone.
“If the Ninole Hills do represent an old rift zone, why was it abandoned? Spreading due to gravitational settling, faulting and landsides could be the cause.

“Several debris flows and landslides – the South Kona Slump and the `Alika-1 and `Alika-2 landslides – exist on the west coast of the Island of Hawai`i. The `Alika-2 slide, which is approximately 127,000 years old and comprises the Kealakekua region of West Hawai`i, was contemporaneous with Ninole Hills activity.

Dedication of an information kiosk is tomorrow.
Image from Ka`u Scenic Byway Committee

“Putting all of this together, we conclude that the Ninole Hills are a failed rift, and that mass-wasting events on Mauna Loa’s western flank most likely caused the abandonment of the rift, leading to the westward migration of Mauna Loa’s present Southwest Rift Zone.”
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KA`U SCENIC BYWAY COMMITTEE invites residents to its blessing of the new three-sided informational kiosk sign at Na`alehu Park tomorrow, the first three-sided informational sign in the state. Panels display maps and photos of the byway and the Na`alehu area, along with historic photos and stories of Na`alehu, Wai`ohinu and Honu`apo. The 1868 earthquake, the history of sugar and coffee in Ka`u and the historic Fourth of July celebration in Na`alehu Park are also included.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

See kaucalendar.com/KauCalendar_March_2016.pdf.

See kaucalendar.com/TheDirectory2016.html.

Those who sign up to participate in May's Miss Ka`u Coffee Pageant are eligible to ride in Merrie Monarch Parade this Saturday. See more below. Photo by Lorie Obra

SHOULD RURAL HAWAI`I POWER urban Hawai`i? Life of the Land Executive Director Henry Curtis considers the question on his blog at ililani.media as Ocean View Ranchos residents face the possibility of having an industrial solar project built in neighborhoods there.

“The myth is that there is no wind or sun in populated areas. There is,” Curtis says.

“The first windmill in Hawai`i was built on Alakea Street in downtown Honolulu in the 1820s.

“The best urban wind site on O`ahu hugs the `Aina Haina coastline, coming onshore at the exclusive gated Black Point community at Diamond Head and at Hanauma Bay.

“Other great spots are mountaintops where high voltage transmission lines and towers are already constructed.

Transmission lines carry electricity generated in rural Hawai`i
to more populated areas. Photo from Henry Curtis

“But developers, utilities and politicians always seem to focus on large-scale centralized generation facilities in rural areas which have less apparent political muscle to fight back: Puna, Ka`u, Kahuku.
“The Kohala-Kona area of West Hawai`i is growing in population and has enormous solar energy potential. Using just five percent of the available resources, Kohala from Waikoloa to Hawi has enough wind resources to power the Big Island.
“Instead, developers are seeking to ram new geothermal in Puna.
“Placing generation is areas where the existing generation far exceeds local demand requires reinforcing existing transmission lines and building new transmission lines.
“The rooftop solar industry threatens that centralized path toward the future. Suddenly, communities can generate their own power,” Curtis concludes
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POLICE REMIND THE PUBLIC about scams involving phone calls from people claiming to be Internal Revenue Service employees demanding payment and stating that if payment is not made, fines of over $1,000 will be issued. These scammers usually demand payment in the form of a money order.

According to instructions from the official IRS website at www.irs.gov, if you receive a call from someone claiming to be from the IRS, you should record the employee’s name, badge number, call back number and caller ID if available. Call 1-800-366-4484 to determine if the caller is an IRS employee with a legitimate need to contact you. If the person calling you is an IRS employee, call them back. If not, report the incident to TIGTA and to the IRS at phishing@irs.gov (Subject: ‘IRS Phone Scam’).
For more information visit, see www.irs.gov/uac/Report-Phishing.
Police are advising anyone receiving similar calls to avoid giving any personal information or money without verifying that the call is legitimate.

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Chief Harry Kubojiri

CHIEF HARRY KUBOJIRI ENCOURAGES Ka`u residents to participate in an anonymous Community Satisfaction Survey for the Hawai`i Police Department before the end of this month.
Kubojiri said previous surveys have helped him identify actions the Police Department could take to increase community satisfaction. “This survey is one of the tools we use to improve our crucial partnership with the community by incorporating community feedback into our daily operations,” Kubojiri said. “By comparing the results of this year’s survey with the results of past surveys, we can gauge where we have improved and where we need further improvement.”
In addition to multiple-choice questions, the survey allows participants to make individual comments. “I read every comment,” Kubojiri said. “The more specific the feedback is, the better this department can respond to the needs of our community.”
The online survey is open until 4 p.m. Thursday at www.hawaiipolice.com. It takes about five minutes to complete and is limited to one survey per computer. Respondents’ IP addresses will not be stored in the survey results, and responses will be collected and compiled by an outside source. After the survey period, results will be posted on the department’s website.

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Hula sisters in Pahala will join hula sisters from Japan at Prince
Kuhio Plaza on Friday at 1 p.m. for a performance during
Merrie Monarch week. Photo by Demetrius Oliveira

HALAU HULA O LEIONALANI, of Pahala, will participate in Merrie Monarch festivities in Hilo this week, performing with Kumu Hula Debbie Ryder at Prince Kuhio Plaza on Friday at 1 p.m. The performance will include hula sisters from Japan who often visit Ka`u and the halau. Ka`u musicians Demetrius, Gene Boy and Matthew will join them.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar.

KE KINOLAU O LAKA: The Embodiment Of Laka, Goddess Of Hula opened Saturday and is on display daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Sunday, April 24 at Volcano Art Center Gallery in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. The multimedia exhibit features botanical sketches, pyrography-carved gourds and dyed kapa pieces of Hawai`i Island artists John Dawson, Jelena Clay, Bernice Akamine and Micah Kamohoali`i. The exhibit is open to the public and free of charge; park entrance fees apply.

Kinolau literally translates to “many bodies.” It is a reference to the belief in the myriad forms of the deities that make up the Hawaiian pantheon and that every plant, animal and force of nature, such as wind, rain and snow, is an embodiment of a god.

Volcano Art Center's new exhibit continues into April.
Image from VAC

“This concept encompasses more than ritual and religious belief; it is a way of being in the natural world,” a VAC statement explains. “In Hawaiian culture, Laka is known for creating hula. With hula, a form of storytelling, Laka gave the Hawaiian people a way to record their history and pass it on to future generations. A hula dancer looks to Laka for inspiration before a performance. The dancer is the body – that which is moved; Laka, the inspiration – that which causes movement. The dancer and Laka become one in the dance. The dancer will adorn themselves in the kinolau of Laka, which include `ohi`a lehua,`ie `ie, hala pepe, maile, palapalai and other native ferns.”

Each artist in the exhibition has explored the plant form of Laka by representing it in the art they have created. Both Dawson and Akamine have depicted the plants as botanical portraits. Clay has burned the image of the forms into gourds, and Kamohoali`i has dyed his kapa fabric using these plants.
The plants will also be highlighted in a kuahu (altar) paying homage to Laka. The native lama wood base, adorned by various kinolau of Laka, will be dedicated each Friday of the exhibit by a different kumu hula. Just as each story told through hula can differ and styles of teaching may vary, each kumu hula has their own way of honoring Laka. VAC invites Ka`u residents and visitors weekly to see each kuahu arrangement.

Due to the threat of the `ohi`a wilt, `ohi`a lehua will be intentionally left out of the kuahu in an effort to protect Hawai`i’s natural resources.

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KA`U’S HAWAI`I COUNTY COUNCIL member Maile David meets with the public today at 6 p.m. at Ocean View Community Center. For more information, call 939-7033.

Ka`u young ladies can still sign up to participate
in May's Miss Ka`u Coffee Pageant.
Photo by Trinidad Marques

THURSDAY IS THE DEADLINE for Ka`u young ladies to enter the Miss Ka`u Coffee Pageant. Contestants will have six weeks to prepare for the pageant. On Saturday, May 14 at 6:30 p.m., Miss Ka`u Coffee, Miss Peaberry and Junior Miss Ka`u Coffee contestants vie for 2016 titles at Ka`u Coffee Mill.

Those who sign up for the pageant this week are eligible to ride in Merrie Monarch Parade this Saturday.
Contact Trinidad Marques at 936-0015 or aliihhhcoffee@yahoo.com to enter the pageant. Donate to the pageant scholarship fund with Julia Neal at 928-6471 or mahalo@aloha.net.

THURSDAY IS ALSO THE LAST DAY to sign up for Kahuku `Ohana Day and be included in the free lunch count. Kids up to age 17 and their families will explore the historic Lower Palm Trail and learn special traditional Hawaiian string figures called hei.
The day of fun and discovery takes place on Saturday, April 16 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Participants must bring their own vehicles for access to the trail. Instructions and directions are given upon registration. Call 985-6019.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

See kaucalendar.com/KauCalendar_March_2016.pdf.

See kaucalendar.com/TheDirectory2016.html.

Community members gathered at Na`alehu Park to bless Ka`u Scenic Byway's new informational kiosk. Photos by Ron Johnson

KA`U SCENIC BYWAY COMMITTEE held a blessing of the new informational kiosk at Na`alehu Park yesterday.

Committee member Wendy Vance began the program with an oli. Chair Rich Morrow offered a history of the byway program and thanked everyone who helped with the committee’s projects, including signage at Ocean View Lookout, the Na`alehu Park kiosk and future signs dating lava flows.

Project participants gather in front of the kiosk.

The committee was originally formed by Dennis and Marge Elwell, of Na`alehu, under the auspices of Ka`u Chamber of Commerce. It is a joint venture of local businesses and property owners, Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park, Hawai`i State Department of Transportation, Hawai’i County Government, Hawaiian Civic Club of Ka`u and other local organizations. The Scenic Byway, known as The Slopes of Mauna Loa, received designation as a Hawai`i Scenic Byway on Oct. 18, 2011 and runs the length of Hwy 11 through Ka`u from Manuka to Volcano.

Morrow said plans are to place similar kiosks in Ocean View and Pahala.
Hawaiian Civic Club of Ka`u President Blossom DeSilva offered a blessing, after which participants enjoyed snacks, coffee and iced mamaki tea and viewed some of Iwao Yonemitsu’s historic photos.
Former Hawai`i County Council member Brenda Ford and current member Maile David praised the kiosk as a worthwhile project. David pointed out that information provided will be valuable to residents as well as visitors. She pointed out that historical photos provided by Na`alehu resident Iwao Yonemitsu for the project will help bring the community together. She said photos of Na`alehu Rodeo reminded her of her past, when her family traveled here and to other rodeos around the island.
Of some 36 byway informational kiosks throughout the state, this is the first three-sided one. Funds for fabrication of the kiosk were provided by former County Council member Brenda Ford. Hawai`i County Parks and Recreation Department, with help by volunteers from `O Ka`u Kakou, installed it. The three panels display maps and photos of the byway and the Na`alehu area, and historical photos and stories of Na`alehu, Wai`ohinu and Honu`apo. The 1868 earthquake, the history of sugar and coffee in Ka`u, and the historic Fourth of July celebration in Na`alehu Park are also included.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Hawai`i Endangered Bird Conservation Program staff feed
an `alala hatchling. Photo from San Diego Zoo Global

KEAUHOU BIRD CONSERVATION CENTER in Volcano is celebrating the first `alala to be hatched in the 2016 breeding season. Later this year, hatched `alala chicks will go back to their native forests on Hawai`i Island. The `alala, or Hawaiian crow, has been extinct in the wild since 2002, preserved only in the program run by San Diego Zoo Global at its Hawaiian bird centers.

“This first hatching of the season is the earliest we have on record,” said Bryce Masuda, conservation program manager of the Hawai`i Endangered Bird Conservation Program. “Although there is a possibility that this chick may be part of the group to be released into the wild this fall, we won’t identify the release group until all of the candidate chicks have hatched.”

This first chick hatched from an egg laid on March 4 that was incubated by staff at the center. After it opens its eyes, the chick will be reared by staff using puppets to ensure that it does not imprint on humans. Animal care staff hope to create two groups of young `alala to be released into their native forests later in 2016. The collaborative effort to prepare for an `alala reintroduction has included significant work by many partners to prepare a large protected area of forest on Hawai`i Island. Additional eggs are expected to begin hatching early next month.

The `alala is a member of the crow family that was brought to the brink of extinction by loss of habitat as well as introduced predators and diseases.
“Returning the `alala to the forest is a significant step in recovery of this species and native forest ecosystem in Hawai`i,” said Jay Nelson, wildlife biologist, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Ka`u kupuna joined keiki from Lori Lei Shirakawa's hula halau at Saturday's opening of Merrie Monarch.
Photos from Lori Lei Shirakawa

Ka`u musicians Gene Akamu, Demetrius Oliveira and Sadie
Pi`imauna join Lori Lei Shirakawa. Missing is Dane Sesson.

KUPUNA AND MUSICIANS FROM KA`U participated in the opening of Merrie Monarch Festival this past Saturday. Lori Lei Shirakawa, who previously had a hula studio in Wai`ohinu and is now in Hilo, invited them to join performances by her halau.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar.

ZIKA IS NOT CURRENTLY CIRCULATING in Hawai`i, the state Department of Health Director reported. There have been no locally acquired cases of Zika. All of the cases identified in Hawai`i have been travel-related and infected while outside of Hawai`i. However, the mosquitoes that can transmit Zika (the same species of mosquitoes that transmit dengue and chikungunya) are found in Hawai`i, so the virus could be brought into the state by an infected traveler. This is why infected individuals must avoid mosquito exposure during their first week of illness. DOH said it aggressively investigates all reported cases of Zika to reduce the possibility of the disease spreading in Hawai`i.

Dr. Virginia Pressler

The best way to prevent any mosquito-borne infections is to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes. Use screens on windows and doorways to keep mosquitoes out. Use insect repellents to keep mosquitoes away and reduce the risk of being bitten. Repellents that contain DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, and para-menthane-diol products will provide long lasting protection against mosquitoes. Repellents containing a higher concentration of the active ingredients will generally provide longer-lasting protection up to a point. Always use the repellent according to the instructions on the product label.

Wear appropriate clothing such as long-sleeved shirts and long pants to reduce the likelihood of mosquito bites, especially if you are going to be in an area with lots of mosquito activity.
Reduce the number of mosquitoes outside homes and businesses by removing any standing water from containers, such as flowerpots or buckets.
If you are going to be traveling, check before leaving if there is a risk of Zika virus at your destination, and if so, be sure to take precautions against mosquito bites. One good source of travel health information is http://www. nc.cdc.gov/travel/page/zika-travel-information.
If you have questions about Zika virus, in Hawai`i call 211. To report a possible case, contact Disease Investigation Branch at 808-586-4586. If you have questions or concerns about mosquitoes, contact Vector Control on the Big Island, East Hawai`i: 974-6001 or West Hawai`i: 322-4880.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar.

KA`U YOUNG LADIES HAVE THREE more days to enter the Miss Ka`u Coffee Pageant. On Saturday, May 14 at 6:30 p.m., Miss Ka`u Coffee, Miss Peaberry and Junior Miss Ka`u Coffee contestants vie for 2016 titles at Ka`u Coffee Mill.

Those who sign up for the pageant are eligible to ride in Merrie Monarch Parade this Saturday.
Contact Trinidad Marques at 936-0015 or aliihhhcoffee@yahoo.com to enter the pageant. Donate to the pageant scholarship fund with Julia Neal at 928-6471 or mahalo@aloha.net.

HAWAI`I FARMERS UNION UNITED’s Ka`u chapter and Earth Matters Farm sponsor a sustainable workshop Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The farm is two miles down South Point Road at the corner of Kama`oa Road.

Richard Perea is a certified Korean Natural Farming instructor. He has developed a technique called Ka`u Natural Farming that is unique to our local area.

Workshop participants learn how to cultivate their own local microorganisms for sustainable gardening and farming, about the interface between soil and plants, and how to strengthen plants’ ability to receive available nutrients.
Cost is $25 and free to all HFUU members. A garden-fresh lunch is included.
For more information and to sign up, call Greg Smith at 443-3300, or email earthmatterskau@aol.com.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

See kaucalendar.com/KauCalendar_March_2016.pdf.

See kaucalendar.com/TheDirectory2016.html.

Hawaiian Civic Club of Ka`u's Prince Kuhio Day celebration included displays of artifacts and arts &crafts. See story and more photos below. Photos by Nancy Stafford

KA`U’S HAWAI`I COUNTY COUNCIL member Maile David met with Ka`u constituents Monday evening at Ocean View Community Center. About 22 residents attended to hear her thoughts on local issues.

Maile David

Paula Donovan asked how much county money goes to other Ka`u towns compared with Ocean View. “We have the largest population and get the least money,” she said. She asked David for three things that county money went to locally. David listed $2,000 that the County Council recently approved for each of the three Summer Fun programs in Ocean View, Na`alehu and Pahala. Funding will go toward fees for about 20 keiki at each location.
County Council also approved $5,500 for Tropic Care medical services sponsored by the U.S. Army Reserve coming to Ocean View Community Center May 31 – June 4. Funds will be used for transportation of people to get medical check-ups and for maintenance throughout the week. Tropic Care will also provide services at Ka`u High & Pahala Elementary School.
An additional $2,500 is for Project Vision transportation expenses to bring a second Vision Project van to use during Tropic Care.
Another $5,000 appropriated by County Council will help Ocean View fire station repair its 30,000-water tank on site, a generator and its roll-up doors.
A transfer station for Ocean View was another topic at the meeting. David said that plans needed to be drawn up, but Mike duBois said plans were already done. David’s announcement that the transfer station would be permanently located where the temporary one sparked outrage. “What? Next to the park? Next to houses?” residents asked. She explained that the original location prompted the state Department of Transportation to ask the county to pay over $1 million for a turning lane off Hwy 11.

Tropic Care returns to Ka`u this year.

Donovan also questioned the value of the Ka`u Community Development Plan, saying that after eight years and three quarters of a million dollars, “all we have is a pile of paper.” David said after the meeting that community members from other places where plan is done find it helpful, looking at it as a framework for future plans. It is a guide, along with general plan, so there are two documents to go by for future planning.
“It gives you a heads up on what the community desires,” David said. She also said it can help prevent legal actions down the road. “The community desires should be up front,” she said. The CDP tells everyone, “This is our vision of how we want our community to be.”
Donovan also talked about a grant she wrote to get the National Guard to come and work on infrastructure as training. However, the county has to supply matching funds, and this has not happened, she said. David said she would check on it, and that the proposal occurred before she took office.
Conditions at Kahuku Park were more concerns discussed. David said, “I was saddened to see its condition.” She said she plans to meet with Department of Parks & Recreation about possible improvements. Rod Ducosin said there is no potable water at the park. After the meeting, David said she would check on running a line between the water tank and park.
Residents also expressed concern about Kahuku Park’s alcohol policies. The park allows drinking after 6 p.m., but residents said it occurs throughout the day, to the detriment of children there. David said she would speak to the police captain and see what can be done. She advocated allowing parties and drinking on a permit basis.
Regarding lowering the speed limit on Hwy 11 in commercial areas, David said after the meeting that “it makes sense” and that she would check with the state Department of Transportation.
Ranchos resident Ann Bosted brought up proposed solar farms and substation there, and David said she would send a letter to the state Public Utilities Commission supporting residents’ desires to have the project stopped.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Anna Cariaga displayed historic photos.

FOLLOWING KA`U’S FIRST PRINCE KUHIO DAY celebration in 40 years, Hawaiian Civic Club of Ka`u President Blossom DeSilva said she looks forward to future ones. Prince Kuhio founded the Hawaiian Civic Club movement.

The Civic Club opened the event with pule and chant. Booths displayed information about Prince Kuhio, weapons, lei and other artifacts and lauhala weaving. Attendees played the Hawaiian game konane and other outdoor games. Ka`u Multicultural Society had a large photo display. Hawai`i Wildlife Fund also had a display.
The club sold hot dog plates, and Ka`u Ohana Band entertained attendees. Organizers were Darlyne Vierra and Liz Kuluwaimaka.

Grace Smith won the essay contest.

Grace N. Smith, 12-year-old Ka`u Learning Academy Charter School sixth-grade student, won the first annual Kuhio Day essay contest sponsored by Hawaiian Civic Club of Ka`u. She won a Mini iPad donated by Pat Sanford, of Tech Ed Services, through the efforts of Diana Prentiss, Education Committee chair of Hawaiian Civic Club.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar.

VOLCANO ART CENTER INVITES all Hawai`i Island quilters to enter its inaugural quilt show July 15 to Aug. 7 at the center’s Niaulani campus.
This year’s show, Quilts in the Forest, Quilts in the Park, is dedicated to the centennial celebration of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park as well as that of the National Park Service. HVNP celebrates its 100th birthday Aug. 1 and is sharing the park through a series of special programs for the public all through the year.

Several Ka`u keiki submitted Prince
Kuhio Day essays.

The show, with categories such as Hawaiian Quilt, Find Your Park, Art to Wear, Bed Runner and Miniature Quilt, is open to all residents of Hawai`i Island.
Quilters need to register online by May 27. Prospectus and entry forms are available at volcanoartcenter.org/gallery/artist-opportunities.
“Our vision for this year’s show is exciting for me as an artist who loves colors and textures in our rain forest environment,” said jewelry artist and amateur quilter Tad Sewell, committee chair for the quilt exhibit.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Keiki enjoyed konane during
Prince Kuhio Day in Ka`u.

HAWAII VISITOR SPENDING GREW 1.2 percent in February, according to preliminary statistics released by Hawai`i Tourism Authority. Total spending by all visitors was $43.3 million per day, a gain of 1.2 percent from February 2015. There were 218,150 total visitors in Hawai`i on any given day, representing no growth from a year ago.
For the first two months of 2016, the average daily census of total visitors increased 1.3 percent to 229,358 visitors per day from year-to-date 2015. Total visitor spending also increased, two percent, representing an average of $45.3 million per day versus $44.4 million per day last year.
“February was a strong month for Hawai`i’s visitor industry, with the bonus of leap year adding an extra day for businesses statewide to generate revenue,” HTA President and CEO George Szigeti said. “February’s average daily visitor spending of $43.3 million was led by the U.S. West ($14.3 million) and U.S. East ($11.2 million) markets, which comprised nearly 60 percent of the total.
“We are maximizing the use of our marketing resources to promote the Hawai`i visitor experience and connect with travelers planning their next vacation. Global competition for travel consumers is intense, and we appreciate all the support of Hawai`i’s industry partners as they market the islands in selling their accommodations, products and services.”

Families explore Palm Trail on the next Kahuku `Ohana Day.
Photo from NPS

TOMORROW IS THE LAST DAY to sign up for Kahuku `Ohana Day and be included in the free lunch count. Kids up to age 17 and their families will explore the historic Lower Palm Trail and learn special traditional Hawaiian string figures called hei.

The day of fun and discovery takes place on Saturday, April 16 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Participants must bring their own vehicles for access to the trail. Instructions and directions are given upon registration. Call 985-6019.

TOMORROW IS ALSO THE DEADLINE to enter the Miss Ka`u Coffee Pageant. On Saturday, May 14 at 6:30 p.m., Miss Ka`u Coffee, Miss Peaberry and Junior Miss Ka`u Coffee contestants vie for 2016 titles at Ka`u Coffee Mill.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

See kaucalendar.com/KauCalendar_March_2016.pdf.

See kaucalendar.com/TheDirectory2016.html.

Today is the final day for Ka`u young ladies to enter May's Miss Ka`u Coffee Pageant. See more below. Photo by Pamela Taylor

HAWAI`I COUNTY MAYOR BILLY KENOI entered a plea of not guilty yesterday. Kenoi was indicted on eight charges related use of county-issued purchasing card. Kenoi used the card to purchase personal items and drinks at a Honolulu hostess bar.

Two of the eight charges are for second-degree theft, which is punishable by up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

Mayor Billy Kenoi

“It’s an overreach to call him a thief, and it’s fighting words,” Kenoi’s attorney Todd Eddins told John Burnett, of Hawai`i Tribune-Herald. “And Mayor Kenoi is going to fight these flimsy allegations all the way.”

Hilo Circuit Court Judge Greg Nakamura ordered Kenoi to appear for trial on July 18. However, Eddins told Burnett the trial may be delayed due to the amount of material that needs to be reviewed. It’s “hard to say at this point” if the trial would begin before Kenoi completes his final term and a new mayor replaces him in December, Eddins said. Kenoi is ineligible to run for mayor again due to term limits.
See hawaiitribune-herald.com.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar.

HAWAI`I ISLAND POLICE ARE ASKING for the public’s help in identifying the driver and vehicle involved in a hit-and-run accident that seriously injured a pedestrian in Ocean View a week ago Saturday.

About 11 p.m. on March 19, Ka`u patrol officers responded to a report of a traffic accident involving a pedestrian on Hawai`i Boulevard. Police determined that a 24-year-old man, who had been lying on the road, was run over by a vehicle traveling north on Hawai`i Boulevard. The man sustained multiple injuries and was taken to Kona Community Hospital and later transferred to Queen’s Medical Center on O`ahu in critical condition.
The suspected vehicle is described as a newer-model, white, four-door Nissan pickup truck driven by a Caucasian man wearing a white-brimmed hat.
Police ask that anyone with information about the driver or vehicle call the Police Department’s non-emergency line at 935-3311 or Officer Melissa D’Angelo at 939-2520.
Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous may call the islandwide Crime Stoppers number at 961-8300 and may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000. Crime Stoppers is a volunteer program run by ordinary citizens who want to keep their community safe. Crime Stoppers doesn’t record calls or subscribe to caller ID. Crime Stoppers information is kept confidential.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Hawai`i county Civil Defense Chief Darryl Oliveira is retiring.

HAWAI`I COUNTY CIVIL DEFENSE Chief Darryl Oliveira is retiring. Oliveira retired as county fire chief in 2011 and in 2013 replaced Ben Fuata at Civil Defense. He has seen the county through threatening lava flows, hurricanes, tsunamis and the ongoing dengue fever outbreak.

Oliveira’s replacement is up to Mayor Billy Kenoi. Oliveira told Nancy Cook Lauer, of West Hawai`i Today, that the timing of his retirement coincides with a quiet time in emergencies and that he is willing to volunteer his time to help the new administrator become familiar with the job.
See westhawaiitoday.com.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar.

A magnitude-2.9 earthquake struck yesterday.
Map from USGS HVO

A MAGNITUDE-2.9 EARTHQUAKE struck on the slopes of Mauna Loa this morning, Hawaiian Volcano Observatory reported. Located 8.6 miles east-southeast of the summit, the quake was 6.2 miles beneath the surface. USGS originally reported the magnitude as 3.0 but later revised it.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar.

A HIGH SURF WARNING is in effect until 6 p.m. for west-facing shores of Hawai`i Island, including Ka`u and Miloli`i. National Weather Service reported that a large northwest swell bringing 10- to 12-foot waves will gradually diminish today. Beaches in Kona Kahalu`u to Mauna Kea Hotel are closed. NWS warns that large breaking surf, significant shorebreak and dangerous currents make entering the water very hazardous.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar.

U.S. SEN. BRIAN SCHATZ YESTERDAY met with Boys & Girls Club of Hawai`i members and honored this year’s Youth of the Year. In his keynote address, Schatz recognized the critical work the Boys & Girls Club does and challenged its young members to pursue a life of public service.

“Public service takes many forms, and you can find a way to serve that makes sense to you. But it is up to you to seek out those opportunities,” Schatz said.

Sen. Brian Schatz honored Boys & Girls Club yesterday.
Photo from Office of Sen. Schatz

The Boys & Girls Club of Hawai`i serves more than 30,000 youth, providing a safe, structured and positive environment for young people after school, during holidays and on summer vacation. BGCH currently operates 30 club sites across the state, including one at Pahala Community Center headed by Dolly Kailiawa.

Youth of the Year is a year-round character and leadership program that recognizes Boys & Girls Club members who are shining stars at their Club. Aged 14 - 18, these teens demonstrate academic achievement, leadership skills and service to their community.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar.

HAWAI`I DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES Director Rachael Wong urges all individuals and families who received health insurance through the Connector in 2015 to file their taxes by the April 18 deadline.

Rachael Wong

This year, those who got their 2015 healthcare coverage through the Connector should have received a Form 1095-A. This form allows filers to calculate any advanced premium tax credits they received to help pay for insurance. It is important to include information from the 1095-A form in tax returns so that individuals and families can remain eligible for help with health insurance costs in 2017.

Individuals and families who had insurance through the Connector who have not received a Form 1095-A should contact 1-877-628-5076 or email support@hawaiihealthconnector.com.
Additional information about advanced premium tax credits, tax filings and healthcare coverage is available online through federal agencies like the IRS and Healthcare.gov and DHS. Low-income individuals and families may also get in-person assistance filing their taxes. More information about these resources can be found at humanservices.hawaii.gov.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar.

TODAY IS THE DEADLINE to enter the Miss Ka`u Coffee Pageant that takes place at Ka`u Coffee Mill on Saturday, May 14 at 6:30 p.m. Categories are Miss Ka`u Coffee, Miss Peaberry and Junior Miss Ka`u Coffee.
Those who sign up for the pageant are eligible to ride in Merrie Monarch Parade this Saturday.
Contact Trinidad Marques at 936-0015 or aliihhhcoffee@yahoo.com to enter the pageant. Donate to the pageant scholarship fund with Julia Neal at 928-6471 or mahalo@aloha.net.

Ka`u Natural Farming is the topic at Earth Matters Farm
on Saturday. Photo from Earth Matters

HAWAI`I FARMERS UNION UNITED’s Ka`u chapter and Earth Matters Farm sponsor a sustainability workshop Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The farm is two miles down South Point Road at the corner of Kama`oa Road.

Richard Perea, a certified Korean Natural Farming instructor, has developed a technique called Ka`u Natural Farming that is unique to our local area.
Workshop participants learn how to cultivate their own local microorganisms for sustainable gardening and farming, about the interface between soil and plants, and how to strengthen plants’ ability to receive available nutrients.
Cost is $25 and free to all HFUU members. A garden-fresh lunch is included.
For more information and to sign up, call Greg Smith at 443-3300, or email earthmatterskau@aol.com.

ZACH MERMEL, OF OLA DESIGN GROUP, shares Secrets of the Soil Part I & II on Saturday at Volcano Art Center in Volcano Village. Part I covers soil basics. How is soil formed? What organisms reside within it? What are the different soil types on Hawai`i Island? In this interactive session, participants explore dynamics of the soil food web, various properties of soil and fundamentals of soil testing at the homestead and farm scale.

The workshop from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. costs $40, or $30 for VAC members.
Composting is the topic of Part II from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Ever wondered how to make compost that plants will devour like dessert? This hands-on session explores strategies for dramatically enhancing the life-giving properties of soil. Participants gain experience constructing a biologically active compost pile and a home-scale worm bin and applying compost tea sprays to plants and soil. Fee is $30, or $25 for VAC members.
Discounted fees of $60, or $50 for VAC members, apply when signing up for both parts.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

See kaucalendar.com/KauCalendar_March_2016.pdf.

See kaucalendar.com/TheDirectory2016.html.

April is Tsunami Awareness Month. In November 1975, Hawai`i's largest locally generated tsunami in the 20th century hit the Ka`u Coast, wrecking this house at Punalu`u. UGGS Photo by David Shapiro, of Honolulu Star-Bulletin

APRIL IS TSUNAMI AWARENESS MONTH, and Hawai`i Emergency Management Agency encourages the public to take tsunami preparedness into their own hands. Seventy years ago, on April 1, 1946, one of the deadliest tsunamis to ever hit Hawai`i caused widespread devastation on all islands. Generated by an earthquake in the Aleutian Islands, the massive tsunami took 159 lives and caused more than $26 million in damage. April was chosen as the month to honor and remember the lives lost in all tsunamis to hit the state.

Due to Hawai`i’s location in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, the state is extremely vulnerable to the threat of tsunamis. Distantly generated tsunamis can reach Hawai`i within several hours and are triggered by earthquakes that take place along the Ring of Fire, which circles the Pacific Rim. Locally generated tsunamis are caused by earthquakes or volcanic activity that occur in or near the Hawaiian Islands and can make landfall in a matter of minutes.

The largest tsunami generated locally in Hawai`i in the 20th century was triggered by sudden, violent ground motion associated with the magnitude-7.7 earthquake on Nov. 29, 1975. Waves reached six to 14 meters above sea level on the Ka`u Coast and generally less than four meters elsewhere on the island. The tsunami killed two people and caused property damage of about $1.4 million.

The 1975 tsunami threw this car into rocks at Punalu`u.
USGS Photo by Andy Badig, of Ka`u News

According to U.S. Geological Survey, at Punalu`u, 55 kilometers southwest of its epicenter, the earthquake woke several families camped near the beach and others sleeping in nearby houses, but few suspected that a tsunami was moving swiftly toward them. Sea level began rising rapidly within a few minutes after the earthquake, forcing campers and residents to wade quickly to higher ground. The largest wave arrived about 10 minutes later, destroying seven homes and two vehicles and causing damage of nearly $1 million as it swept through the restaurant and gift shop. The structures remained standing, and no injuries were reported.

“There is no season for tsunamis,” said Vern Miyagi, Administrator of Emergency Management. “During a tsunami threat, people only have hours – sometimes minutes – to move to safety. For this reason, it is crucial that families and individuals have their survival kits ready ahead of time and emergency plans up to date so they can quickly respond and react in a safe and efficient manner.”
For distantly generated tsunamis, outdoor warning sirens will sound statewide. For locally generated tsunamis, however, there may not be sufficient time to sound sirens. If you are near the ocean when an earthquake takes place, immediately move to higher ground. Upon hearing any warning sirens, the public should tune immediately to a radio or television for updates and the latest information.
Additionally, everyone should be able to recognize the natural warning signs that a tsunami may be imminent. Signs include rapidly rising or receding water in the ocean, the sound of a locomotive or jet plane coming from the ocean, and empty beaches.
People located within a tsunami evacuation zone should quickly move to higher ground or inland until they are at least 100 feet above sea level, while avoiding steep cliffs and watching for falling rocks. To find out if you live, work or play within a tsunami evacuation zone, turn to the disaster preparedness pages in your local telephone book or enter your address into the Tsunami Evacuation Zone Map Viewer on HI-EMA’s website at www.scd.hawaii.gov.
On Saturday, April 16, Pacific Tsunami Museum in Hilo will host an open house event with free admission to the public. For more information, call 935-0926.
HI-EMA is also releasing a series of public service announcements, which were produced by partners within the State Department of Defense’s Public Affairs Office with the assistance of PTWC and the museum. The series provides background information about the science behind tsunamis and warning along with helpful tips about how to prepare and respond.
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U.S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY’S Hawaiian Volcano Observatory welcomes geophysicist Brian Shiro to its team and introduces him in the current issue of Volcano Watch. “Brian is HVO’s new Seismic Network Manager, a key position in charge of monitoring earthquakes, one of the most important tools we have for understanding active volcanoes in Hawai`i,” the article states. “He replaces Dr. Wes Thelen, who transferred to the USGS Cascades Volcano Observatory.

“Brian comes to HVO from NOAA’s Pacific Tsunami Warning Center in Honolulu, where he worked as a geophysicist for 10 years. In that capacity, Brian was one of a handful of scientists keeping watch on big earthquakes around the world, and, when needed, issuing tsunami advisories, watches and warnings when dangerous waves were possibly headed our way. So, he is quite familiar with monitoring network operations and the pressure-packed, time-sensitive need to issue accurate information about potential hazards to emergency managers and the public.

Brian Shiro is Hawaiian Volcano Observatory's new Seismic
Network Manager. Photo from USGS/HVO

“HVO and the Island of Hawai`i are not new territories for Brian. In his time at PTWC, he worked in close cooperation with HVO to establish the Hawai`i Integrated Seismic Network, which involved expanding NOAA’s seismic station inventory by scouting new installation locations and working with technicians to get the instruments up and running. These efforts facilitated better multi-hazard monitoring of earthquakes, volcanoes and tsunamis statewide.

“Prior to his time at PTWC, Brian was heavily involved with installing and operating seismic networks in remote and dramatic landscapes around the world including Antarctica, Alaska, Canada, Fiji, Tonga and the Northern Mariana Islands, where he witnessed up close and personal the start of the Anatahan eruption in 2003.
“Brian also contributed to the mission of the USGS Honolulu Magnetic Observatory, where he measured Earth’s magnetic field every week from 2005 to 2014. These measurements are used by science agencies from the U.S. and other countries to understand how the magnetic field contributes to and impacts space weather.
“Magnetism also features prominently in Brian’s recent research. Using a variety of electromagnetic techniques, he has conducted field surveys to find groundwater in the Arctic, search for permafrost on Mauna Kea, determine seamount ages in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands and map lava tubes on Mauna Loa.
“Brian brings an inspiring planetary perspective to his work. In 2009 and 2010, he served on simulated Mars missions at the Flashline Mars Arctic Research Station on Devon Island, Canada, and at the Mars Desert Research Station in Utah. And, since 2012, he has helped establish and operate the Hawai`i Space Exploration Analog Mars analog missions on Mauna Loa. There, he trains crews and directs their field geology exploration program.
“As you might have guessed, Brian’s lifelong ambition has been to explore space as an astronaut— and he has been on NASA’s short list of Highly Qualified applicants since 2008. While we hope he becomes a long-term member of the HVO staff, we also wish him well on this quest!
“Brian earned a Bachelor’s degree from Northwestern University with triple majors in Integrated Science, Geology and Physics, as well as Master’s degrees in Earth and Planetary Sciences from Washington University in St. Louis and in Space Studies from the University of North Dakota. He is currently working on a Ph.D. in geophysics at the University of Hawai`i at Manoa, investigating lava tubes on Mauna Loa and seamounts in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands from terrestrial and planetary science perspectives.
“Speaking to at-risk communities and media about geophysical hazards is something Brian also enjoys. While at PTWC, he developed a website, subscription feeds and social media services for improved public access to tsunami information. Recently, he worked with an interagency team to develop NOAA’s Tsunami.gov, a new national website. So, watch and listen for a new HVO face and voice when the next eruption or earthquake makes the news!
“Brian is excited about the new adventures that await him at HVO and on Hawai`i Island, and HVO’s staff look forward to working with him. Welcome aboard, Brian!”
See hvo.wr.usgs.gov/volcanowatch.
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OCEAN VIEW COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION reported vandalism that occurred at the community center yesterday evening or overnight. Computers, tools and a refrigerator are among items stolen. Power cords were cut. President Sandi Alexander said every drawer was opened and contents strewn about. “It looked like a hurricane came through,” she said.
Anyone with information is asked to call police at 939-2520 or OVCC at 939-7033.

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HAWAI`I ISLAND HUMANE SOCIETY is waiving $25 fees for picking up stray dogs in Ocean View. The organization announced that and other services during a meeting at Ocean View Community Center last week. It also intends to expand to Ocean View its program that traps feral dogs in hot spots and research placing a dog park on county-owned property there. Representatives reminded residents that free pet food is distributed at Malama Market to those in need.

At its Kona location, the organization also offers spay and neuter clinics, for which it distributes a limited number of free coupons. Microchip implanting is available once each month.
Humane Society suggested that residents contact the Police Department regarding barking and/or vicious dogs.
For more information, call 329-1175, or see hihs.org.
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KILAUEA DRAMA & ENTERTAINMENT Network presents The Bible: The Complete Word of God (abridged) at Kilauea Military Camp Theater in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park today and tomorrow at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2:30 p.m.
Make reservations at 982-7344 or kden73@aol.com.

Theater-goes can enjoy a casual dinner at Crater Rim Cafe
before KDEN's production at KMC Theater. Photo from KMC

KILAUEA MILITARY CAMP’S Crater Rim Café in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park invites theater-goers to indulge in a casual dinner before KDEN’s productions today and tomorrow. KMC is open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests.

See kilaueamilitarycamp.com for more information.

HAWAI`I FARMERS UNION UNITED’s Ka`u chapter and Earth Matters Farm sponsor a sustainability workshop tomorrow from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Cost is $25 and free to all HFUU members.

A garden-fresh lunch is included.
For more information and to sign up, call Greg Smith at 443-3300, or email earthmatterskau@aol.com.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

See kaucalendar.com/TheDirectory2016.html.

See kaucalendar.com/KauCalendar_April_2016.pdf.

Miss Ka`u Coffee Maria Miranda joined Miss Ka`u Coffee, Junior Miss and Peaberry candidates in this morning's Merrie Monarch parade. Photo by Trini Marques

Constant Ka`u Coffee promoters Phil and Merle Becker pitched
their trademark purple tent at Merrie Monarch Festival.
Photo from Aikane Plantation

KA`U PARTICIPATED IN MERRIE MONARCH festivities this week. Miss Ka`u Coffee, Miss Ka`u Junior Miss and Miss Peaberry contestants entering in the May 14 pageant at Ka`u Coffee Mill rode through Hilo in the parade this morning.
Aikane Plantation Coffee Co. owners Phil and Merle Becker hosted a booth at Sangha Hall, one of the locations of Merrie Monarch and cultural displays and activities.

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KA`U FARMERS ARE ASKED to participate in a Request for Information survey for the Hawai`i Farm to School Initiative’s market research. Lt. Gov. Shan Tsutsui is working collaboratively with the state Department of Agriculture and Department of Education to gather information from the agriculture community for the initiative.

The goal of the initiative is to address supply and demand issues surrounding the purchasing of local food for school cafeterias. The initiative aims to systematically increase state purchasing of local food for school menus as well as connect keiki with their food through the use of products from the local agricultural community. Tsutsui, who is spearheading the initiative, said the RFI is an important first step. “We are hoping to hear from all sectors of our agriculture community – from ranchers to farmers – to provide us invaluable information so that we can assess how viable it is to increase local products in our schools,” he said.
“The department is always looking for ways to improve our partnerships with our local growers,” said School Food Services Branch Director Glenna Shim. “The information gathered through the RFI will assist us in increasing our current capacity to purchase local produce.”

“This is one avenue by which we can continue to support our local famers and local economy through teaching students about their agricultural community by way of their school menu,” said Scott Enright, Chair of the Hawai`i Board of Agriculture.
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HAWAI`I ISLAND JUDGES ARE RECUSING themselves from the trial of Mayor Billy Kenoi, who was indicted on charges related to use of his county-issued purchasing card. John Burnett, of Hawai`i Tribune-Herald, reported that eight of Hawai`i Island’s ten full-time judges have filed certificates of recusal. Another is retiring before the trial is scheduled to begin on July 18. That leaves only Kona Family Judge Aley Auna, Jr., and he is expected to also recuse himself. If he does, “The (state) chief justice (Mark Recktenwald) would appoint a judge from another circuit,” Third Circuit Judge Ronald Ibarra told Burnett.

See hawaiitribune-herald.com.
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HAWAIIAN ELECTRIC COMPANIES OUTLINED their plan charting a 30-year course leading to 100 percent renewable energy in Hawai`i. The plan lays out near-term actions to lay the foundation for meeting the most ambitious energy goals in the country, while preserving the flexibility needed to adapt to future advances in technology, changes in policy and reductions in development costs.

Alan Oshima Photo from HECO

The Power Supply Improvement Plan Update has been submitted to the Hawai`i Public Utilities Commission for its review. Based on the update, collectively, Hawaiian Electric, Maui Electric, and Hawai`i Electric Light Company could increase private rooftop solar by more than 250 percent from current levels and 370 percent over 2014 levels, when the companies’ last Power Supply Improvement Plans were prepared; achieve 100 percent renewable energy by 2045, the highest level of any state in the country; and achieve 100 percent renewable energy by 2030 on Moloka`i and Lana`i and by 2040 on Maui and Hawai`i Island.

HECO said that with Hawai`i’s small and islanded power grids, it will remain especially critical to preserve a reliable and resilient power grid to serve customers and support the companies’ clean energy transformation.

Customers will receive the benefits of modernized generation and a smarter power grid better able to integrate increasing renewable energy, a cleaner environment, more programs that offer them opportunities to save, and improved efficiencies throughout the energy system. As a result, inflation-adjusted electric rates can remain stable and relatively flat overall as investments are made on the path to 100 percent renewable energy.
“Our plans show that a 100 percent renewable energy future can be achieved,” said Alan Oshima, president and CEO of Hawaiian Electric Company. “We want to work with parties from all segments of our community – government, business, community and environmental groups – to refine the plans for Hawai`i’s energy future. And while the vision remains the same, a 30-year plan to get there will naturally change, given the rapid development of new technology, changing policy and costs, and other factors.”
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RETIRED HAWAI`I ISLAND Circuit Court Judge Riki May Amano has been selected as the hearings officer to conduct the Mauna Kea contested case hearing relating to the application for the construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope, Department of Land and Natural Resources announced. DLNR Chair Suzanne Case issued a minute order to the contested case parties announcing Judge Amano’s selection.

A judge has been selected to conduct a contested case hearing
regarding the Thirty Meter Telescope. Image from TMT

Amano was selected pursuant to Hawai`i Revised Statutes section 103D-304, requiring DLNR to assemble and vet a list of applicants. The list is reviewed by a selection committee, which ranks at least three candidates. The DLNR chair then negotiates a contract with the first ranked person. If the DLNR chair is unable to successfully negotiate a contract with the first ranked person, then he or she attempts to negotiate a contract with the next ranked person. Case was able to successfully negotiate a contract with Amano as the first ranked applicant of the selection committee.
The selection committee consisted of James Duffy, retired Associate Justice of the Hawai`i Supreme Court; Stella Kam, Deputy Attorney General; and Christopher Yuen, member of the Board of Land and Natural Resources.
Amano served as a judge in the district and circuit courts of the Third Judicial Circuit, state of Hawai`i from February 1992 until her retirement in April 2003. She has been recognized annually as a Best Lawyer in America/Hawai`i from 2007 to the present. Amano was born and raised in Hilo and currently resides in Honolulu. She completed her undergraduate education in 1976 with a BA degree in Political Science and obtained her Juris Doctor degree from the William S. Richardson School of Law, University of Hawai`i in 1979. Prior to her appointment to the bench, Amano was a deputy attorney general assigned to the Department of Land and Natural Resources, Transportation and Labor and Industrial Relations; and in private practice from 1981 until 1991.

Any comments on and objections to this appointment must be filed no later than 4:30 p.m. on April 15 at DLNR Administrative Proceedings Office, 1151 Punchbowl St., Rm. 130, Honolulu, Hawai`i 96813.
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KILAUEA DRAMA & ENTERTAINMENT Network presents its final productions of The Bible: The Complete Word of God (abridged) at Kilauea Military Camp Theater in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park today at 7:30 p.m. and tomorrow at 2:30 p.m.

Make reservations at 982-7344 or kden73@aol.com.

Storybook Theater of Hawai`i and its founder Mark Jeffers
will be in Ka`u beginning April 11.

STORYBOOK THEATER OF HAWAI`I and its founder Mark Jeffers present endangered species at Pahala Community Center during Boys & Girls Club on Monday, April 11 from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. The public is invited. Other community groups wishing to participate may call Jeffers at 808-335-0712.

For more information about the theater, see storybook.org.

LEARN HAWAIIAN LANGUAGE tomorrow at 2:30 p.m. at Ka`u Youth Center near Na`alehu Community Center. Kupuna Jeannette Howard teaches classes the first and third Sundays of each month. Informal kanikapila stressing songs of Ka`u follow the classes, which are free and open to all.
For more information, call Beverly Byouk at 936-7262.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

See kaucalendar.com/KauCalendar_April_2016.pdf.

See kaucalendar.com/TheDirectory2016.html.

Lava flows on Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park's Merrie Monarch Parade float as rangers and native species look on.
Photo from NPS

MERRIE MONARCH hula results were announced overnight, wrapping up the annual week of festivities in Hilo. They included presentation by hula groups and musicians with Ka`u roots and offerings of Ka`u crafts, arts and Ka`u Coffee, as well as Ka`u participation in yesterday’s Merrie Monarch Parade.

Hawaiian chess sets with Hawaiian warriors, chiefs, sharks
and Father Damien were featured at Merrie Monarch art sales
this week. These were made by Jeffrey Gomes, son of Phoebe
and Bobby Gomes, of Pahala. See more at Hawaii Bookmark
on Facebook. Photo from Jeffrey Gomes

Overall Champion in the hula competition is Halau Na Mamo o Pu`uanahula, under Kumu Hula Sonny Ching and Lopaka Igarta-De Vera, They were followed by Halau O Ka Ua Kani Lehua, led by Johnny Lum Ho, and Halau Hula `O Kahikilaulani, under Nahokuokalani Gaspang.

The Wahine Overall winner is Halau O Ka Ua Kani Lehua, with Kumu Johnny Lum Ho; followed by Ka La `Onohi Mai O Ha`eha`e, led by Tracie and Keawe Lopes; and Halau Manaola, under Nani Lim Yap.
The men’s Kane Overall winner Is Halau Na Mamo o Pu`uanahulu, under Sonny Ching and Lopaka Igarta-De Vera; followed by Halau Hula `O Kahikilaulani, led by Nahokuokalani Gaspang and Ke Kai O Kahiki, under La`akea Perry.

The traditional hula Kane Kahiko top prize goes to the men of Halau Hula `O Kahikilaulani, led by Nahokuokalani Gaspang. Second is Ke Kai O Kahiki, with Kumu La`akea Perry, followed by Halau Na Mamo O Pu`uanahulu, under Sonny Ching and Lopaka Igarta-De Vera, and Kawaili`ula, led by Chinky Mahoe.

Lori Lei Shirakawa's hula keiki tried out
the Merrie Monarch stage. Photo from
Lori Lei Shirakawa

The traditional hula Wahine Kahiko winners are the women of Halau O Ka Ua Kani Lehua, with Kumu Johnny Lum Ho. Second is Halau Manaola, under Nani Lim Yap and third is Halau Hi`iakainamakalehua, with Kumu Robert Ke`ano Ka`upu IV and Lono Padilla. They are followed by Halau Na Mamo o Pu`uanahulu, under Sonny Ching and Lopaka Igarta-De Vera, and Ka La `Onohi Mai O Ha`eha`e, led by Tracie and Keawe Lopes,

The modern Kane `Auana hula winners are the men of Halau Na Mamo o Pu`uanahulu, led by Sonny Ching and Lopaka Igarta-De Vera, Second is Halau Hula `O Kahikilaulani, under Nahokuokalani Gaspang; followed by Ke Kai O Kahiki, led by La`akea Perry, and Kawaili`ula, under Chinky Mahoe.
The modern day hula Wahine `Auana top prize goes to the women of Halau O Ka Ua Kani Lehua led by Johnny Lum Ho. His halau is followed by Halau Mohala `Ilima with Mapuana de Silva; Ka La `Onohi Mai O Ha`eha`e under Tracie and Keawe Lopes; Hula Halau `O Kamuela, led by Kau`ionalani Kamana`o and Kunewa Mook; and Halau Na Mamo o Pu`uanahulu, led by Sonny Ching and Lopaka Igarta-De Vera.
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ROBERT LINDSEY, trustee chair for Office of Hawaiian Affairs and the elected Hawai`i Island trustee, is recovering from a stoke. His return to work and a “fast and full recovery” are expected, according to an OHA statement.

Robert Lindsey

In addition to OHA duties, Lindsey is known in Ka`u for his former position as an islandwide Kamehameha Schools land manager, his former ownership stake in the old Pahala sugar mill site, and his work with Kohala Center programs here.

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APRIL IS SEXUAL ASSAULT AWARENESS Month, as proclaimed by Gov. David Ige.
Ige encourages all people of the Aloha State to unite in working toward a future where all women, men and children can live free from sexual violence and exploitation.
Sexual Assault Awareness Month is an opportunity to recommit to ending sexual assault, giving survivors the support they need to heal, and building a culture that never tolerates sexual violence.

The month also highlight Hawai`i’s efforts to prevent and stop sexual violence and to enhance community safety. Hawai`i’s Department of Health, in partnership with the state Department of the Attorney General and the Hawai`i Coalition Against Sexual Assault, utilized its Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Rape Prevention and Education Federal Grant to develop and nurture twelve Community Action Teams around prevention of sexual violence, including one at Ka`u Rural Health Community Association, Inc. The state recognizes and honors these teams who are committed to creating “a Hawai`i where people are free from sexual violence and where sexual respect and healthy relationships flourish.” On March 18, KRHCAI held its Better Choices, Better Health Family Support Ladies Nite. For more information about the Ka`u program, call 928-0101.

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WITH THE FEDERAL TAX FILING DEADLINE less than three weeks away, advocates joined Sen. Mazie Hirono in urging Hawai`i seniors to be aware of tax-related scams, such as con artists pretending to be Internal Revenue Service agents by phone.

Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park's hoary bats and Kamehameha
butterflies joined the Merrie Monarch Parade. Photo from NPS

“Scam artists and predators are clever in their attempts to swindle taxpayers out of their refunds. Kupuna and their families need to remain vigilant and protect themselves as we approach the tax filing deadline,” Hirono said. “Mahalo to the IRS, AARP Foundation Tax Aide program, and the Taxpayer Advocate Service for joining me in this effort to protect the most vulnerable in our community.”

“IRS Criminal Investigation will continue to fight for a level playing field for all taxpayers. Whether it is defending victims from would-be identity thieves, or assisting our law enforcement partners in the battle against scams and frauds, we will lend our unique financial investigation expertise to bring to justice the unscrupulous and felonious,” said Special Agent in Charge Teri Alexander. “We are proud to stand with Sen. Hirono to warn taxpayers about IRS imposters. Education is the best weapon we have against these phone scam fraudsters.”
“Seniors deserve better in their golden years than to become victims of scammers,” said Barbara Kim Stanton, state Director of AARP Hawai`i. “If you suspect that you or a loved one is being scammed, contact the AARP Fraud Watch Network to report suspicious activity, receive updates on the latest scams or talk to a live person for assistance.”
The IRS has seen a surge of phone scams as con artists threaten police arrest, license revocation and even deportation. The IRS recently released its annual Dirty Dozen list of tax scams for the 2016 filing season at https://www.irs.gov/uac/Newsroom/IRS-Wraps-Up-the-Dirty-Dozen-List-of-Tax-Scams-for-2016.
To report suspected tax scams to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, see https://www.treasury.gov/tigta/contact_report_scam.shtml.
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HAWAI`I COUNTY COUNCIL’S Committee on Human Services and Social Services this week considers recommendations for grant appropriations to nonprofit organizations. If approved, funding would be included in the County of Hawai`i Operating Budget for Fiscal Year 2016-2017.

A total of 144 eligible applications were received, with requests totaling $5,580,865. The total recommended is $1,500,000. According to David, “although amounts requested by organizations far exceeded recommended award amounts, all applicants expressed their understanding and conveyed their determination to continue providing services to supplement the needs of our island communities and increasing population.”
Recommendations were developed through a review of all applications with each applicant. Members of the Ad Hoc Committee were Chair Maile David, Vice Chair Karen Eoff and Council members Margaret Wille and Daniel Paleka.
Recommendations for nonprofits with programs in Ka`u include $8,750 for Boys & Girls Club’s Out-of-School Fitness for Life program in Pahala; $3,000 for `O Ka`u Kakou’s Family Fun Fest, $3,750 for its Ka`u Coffee Trail Run, $5,500 for its Ka`u Sanitation Program and $2,125 for its annual Punalu`u Keiki Fishing Tournament. Uhane Pohaku No Moku O Hawai`i would receive $8,250 for its Dry Opelu Project, $9,500 for its Palehua Farm Project and $7,000 for restoration of Punalu`u Ahupua`a.

The meeting on Tuesday begins at 1:30 p.m. at Council Chambers in Hilo.
Other committees meeting on Tuesday are Planning, 9:30 a.m.; Governmental Relations & Economic Development, 1 p.m.; Agriculture, Water & Energy Sustainability, 1:15 p.m.; Public Works and Parks & Recreation, 1:45 p.m.; and Finance, 2 p.m.
A public hearing on the county budget begins at 5 p.m.
Ka`u residents can participate via videoconferencing at Na`alehu State Office Building. The meetings are also streamed live, and agendas are available at hawaiicounty.gov.
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Ka`u actor Dick Hershberger presents A Walk into the Past
each Tuesday this month. Photo from KDEN

KA`U ACTOR DICK HERSHBERGER presents Kilauea Drama & Entertainment Network’s A Walk into the Past this and each Tuesday this month in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park.

The time is April 1912, when travel was by ship, train, horse and carriage. There were only four airplanes in America. Teddy Roosevelt was running for president, and the Red Sox won the World Series.
Thomas Jaggar moved to Hawai`i from his offices at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where he was head of the Geology Department, in order to study firsthand activity of Kilauea and Mauna Loa, thereby gaining valuable knowledge about the inner workings of earth systems. He founded the first geologic observatory dedicated to saving lives and co-founded the park itself. It was Jaggar’s vision that inspired the idea of predicting geologic hazards worldwide.

Performances are at 10 a.m., 12 pm.m and 2 p.m., and each one lasts approximately one hour. Meet at the Kilauea Visitor Center. There is no charge for the performance; park entrance fees apply.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

See kaucalendar.com/TheDirectory2016.html.

See kaucalendar.com/KauCalendar_April_2016.pdf.

Hawai`i Police Department officers marched in the Merrie Monarch Parade in Hilo Saturday. Photo by Cody Day

MAYOR BILLY KENOI reversed charges and paid back the county soon after making widely reported purchases on a county credit card, according to a review of the expenses by Honolulu Star-Advertiser published this morning.

USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory founder Thomas Jaggar
co-founded Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park 100 years ago.

Star-Advertiser reporter Nelson Daranciang wrote that Kenoi bought a surfboard on the county credit card for $1,219 at Hawaiian South Shore on O`ahu on Oct. 29, 2011 and repaid the county that December. In 2009, he used the county card to pay a $400 tab at a Honolulu restaurant and lounge. The charges were reversed a day later. He bought a bicycle and accessories for $1,889 on the county card in March of 2014, and the charges were reversed in April 2014. He paid another restaurant and bar tab in December of 2013 and repaid the county in March of 2014. He used the county card to pay for his annual Hawai`i State Bar Association dues for $566 on Jan. 1, 2013 and paid back the county in March the same year, the Star-Advertiser story reported.

The state has indicted Kenoi for misusing the card, and a trial is set for July. According to the Star-Advertiser story, the most publicized expenditures above are not listed in the indictment.
“State Attorney General Douglas Chin is not saying for which purchases the indictment refers, only that details about the charges will be described in documents filed with the court or discussed at trial,” Daranciang reported.
The Star-Advertiser story also reviews other expenditures that line up with dates in the indictment. See more at staradvertiser.com.
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Manuel Marques promoted the Ka`u Coffee Festival and his new
Hokulele Coffee brand at Merrie Monarch last week.
Photo by Nelson Makua

THE NEW HOKULELE BRAND of Ka`u Coffee, farmed by Manuel Marques, of Ka`u Forest Coffee Farm, got lucky last week with a last-minute booth cancellation at the Merrie Monarch’s main venue at Edith Kanaka`ole Stadium in Hilo. After the call came in from Nelson Makua, Marques and wife Deborah Lynn Dickerson manned the booth for four days, gave out many hundreds of samples of Ka`u Coffee and sold their Hokulele Ka`u Coffee grown using Korean Natural Farming methods. It is free of pesticides and herbicides, and “that is a big deal,” Dickerson said.

Marques said the experience was a big plus for Ka`u Coffee and the new brand. The Hokulele brand was inspired by a mineral used in their growing practices. “The mineral is mined from an ancient ocean bed where an asteroid landed, leaving 198 trace minerals and elements. These enhance the root system of the coffee tree,” Dickerson said. The name Hokulele means “shooting star,” she explained.
The Hokulele team also gave out rack cards for the May 13-22 Ka`u Coffee Festival. Marques invited people to visit the farms, when he traditionally leads driving tours on the day of the Ka`u Coffee Festival Ho`olaule`a, this year on Saturday, May 21.

See more on his coffee at www.hokulelecoffee.com.

See more on the coffee festival at kaucoffeefestival.com.
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Hawaiian Volcano Observatory joined the parade to celebrate 100 years
of service. Photo by Cody Day

THE PHILIPPINES IS THE FIRST COUNTRY to introduce a program to vaccinate schoolchildren against dengue fever, Teresa Cerojano, of the Associated Press, reported today. One million students will receive Dengvaxia, which was first licensed in Mexico in December of last year. The vaccine is yet to be approved in many countries and by the World Health Organization.

“A vaccine able to reduce six out of 10 cases, or more importantly to reduce by 80 percent the risk of hospitalization or 93 percent of the risk of dengue hemorrhagic fever, is a major breakthrough,” Guillaume Leroy, Sanofi Pasteur’s vice president for dengue vaccine, told the Associated Press.
The Philippines’ Health Secretary Janette Garin called the program “a historic milestone” in public health. The country’s Department of Health reported that it had the highest dengue count in WHO’s Western Pacific region from 2013 to 2015, with 200,415 cases last year.

While Hawai`i County’s count of confirmed cases stood at 263 people as of last Thursday, the state Department of Health had reported no new confirmed cases since Wednesday, March 23. DOH has stated that the current outbreak would not be considered over until one month goes by with no new cases.

See www.apnewsarchive.com.
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THE STATE WILL SAVE $32.8 million following the completion of a $345 million refunding general obligation bond sale, Gov. David Ige announced. The bonds were previously issued at a higher interest rate. They fund construction or the acquisition of various public improvement projects that include public buildings, elementary and secondary schools and university facilities.

Wesley Machida

The lower interest rates are the result of the favorable bond market and increased investor demand as a result of the state’s improved financial outlook. Standard & Poor’s Rating Service recently improved the state’s outlook from “stable” to “positive” – the highest outlook possible. The “AA” or current rating of the state’s financial condition is good.

Moody’s Rating Service improved the state’s outlook from “stable” to “positive” in October 2015. Fitch Rating has an “AA” rating with a “stable” outlook on the state’s bonds.
There are three rating outlook levels – positive, stable and negative. According to its consultant’s report, as of early March 2016, Hawai`i is the only state in the nation to have two “positive” outlooks from the three rating agencies.
In February, Gov. David Ige led the state’s financing team, which included Director of Finance Wesley Machida, in credit rating presentations with S&P, Moody’s and Fitch.
“We discussed with the rating agencies our conservative fiscal management policies and my focus on addressing and managing the state’s long-term pension and health fund obligations,” Ige said. “We also discussed the need to maintain the state’s reserve fund balances to effectively manage our financial resources. Our goal is to manage our budget to live within our means and to best position the state to withstand future economic fluctuations.”
“I am extremely pleased with the results of the negotiated refunding sale that resulted in the state obtaining its lowest historical borrowing costs versus the national municipal bond financing index,” Machida said. “The resulting refunding sale, which will save the state $32.8 million of debt service payments, along with the favorable low borrowing costs for the competitive new money bonds, enables us to achieve our goals of effectively managing the state’s expenses.”
In its rating report, S&P said the state-projected fiscal 2016 budgetary performance benefits from strong revenue trends that have enabled Hawai`i to build its cash and reserve balances. “That could lead us to raise the state’s credit within the next two years,” S&P said. The favorable outlook improvements by Moody’s and S&P are allowing the state to more effectively market and sell the bonds at the lowest rates possible.
Bank of America Merrill Lynch served as lead underwriter for this offering, with Goldman Sachs serving as co-senior manager for the negotiated refunding bond sale.
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Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park employees and supporters gathered in the shade after the Merrie Monarch Parade.
Photo by Cody Day

KA`U RESIDENTS CAN PARTICIPATE in Hawai`i County Council meetings this week at Council Chambers in Hilo.

Committees meet tomorrow: Planning, 9:30 a.m.; Governmental Relations & Economic Development, 1 p.m.; Agriculture, Water & Energy Sustainability, 1:15 p.m.; Human Services & Social Services, 1:30 p.m.; Public Works and Parks & Recreation, 1:45 p.m.; and Finance, 2 p.m.
A public hearing on the county budget begins at 5 p.m.

The full council meets Wednesday at 9 a.m.

Videoconferencing is available at Na`alehu State Office Building. The meetings are also streamed live, and agendas are available, at hawaiicounty.gov.

DICK HERSHBERGER PRESENTS A Walk into the Past tomorrow and each Tuesday this month in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. Performances with the Ka`u actor portraying Hawaiian Volcano Observatory founder Thomas Jaggar are at 10 a.m., 12 pm.m and 2 p.m., and each one lasts approximately one hour. Meet at Kilauea Visitor Center.

Free; park entrance fees apply.

PAHALA PUBLIC & SCHOOL LIBRARY offers free computer classes on Tuesday evenings beginning tomorrow. Half-hour sessions run from 5:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

All that is needed is a Hawai`i State Public Library card, prior knowledge of the computer keyboard and how to use a mouse.

To make an appointment for a session, call 928-2015, and ask for Debbie.

Rangers teach `ukulele basics Wednesday.
Photo from NPS

RANGERS TEACH `UKULELE BASICS on Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Kilauea Visitor Center in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. The modern Hawaiian musical instrument evolved from the Machete de Braga, a small stringed instrument introduced to Hawai`i by Portuguese immigrants in the late 1800s. The `ukulele has become an iconic part of Hawaiian musical culture and remains popular among locals and foreigners alike.

Free; park entrance fees apply.

WILDLIFE ECOLOGIST FRANK J. Bonaccorso, Ph.D., of USGS Pacific Island Ecosystems Research Center, shares information on the Hawaiian hoary bat or `ope`ape`a Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Volcano Art Center’s Niaulani Campus in Volcano Village. This endangered species of hairy-tailed bat is endemic to the Hawaiian Islands.

See volcanoartcenter.org.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

See kaucalendar.com/TheDirectory2016.html.

See kaucalendar.com/KauCalendar_April_2016.pdf.

A photo from Pa`a Pono Miloli`i identifies keiki crew of the Malolo, which returns to Miloli`i this month after restoration work.
See more below.

IN A STEP THAT MAY BE a precursor of the future of `alala at Keauhou Bird Conservation Center in Volcano, captive-reared puaiohi flew into the forests of Kaua`i today, marking the end of a successful breeding program for the species and beginning the next step in its recovery. Conservation biologists from the Kaua`i Forest Bird Recovery Project, Hawai`i’s Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Forestry and Wildlife, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service-Pacific Islands Fish and Wildlife Office and San Diego Zoo Global’s Hawaiian Endangered Bird Conservation Program worked together to bring the group of birds to the forest for release, similar to efforts at KBCC.

A program on Kaua`i similar to one at Keauhou Bird Conservation
Center in Volcano has successfully returned a native bird species
to the forests there. Photo from DLNR-DOFAW

“This is a bittersweet moment for those of us who have been working with these birds on a daily basis,” said Bryce Masuda, Conservation Program Manager, San Diego Zoo Global. “We will miss seeing them every day but are delighted to be part of the collaborative effort to ensure this species survives into the future.”

“The puaiohi is an example of how the strong partnerships in Hawai`i’s conservation community and lots of hard work can change the outlook for a species.” said Megan Laut, Vertebrate Recovery Coordinator, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Pacific Islands Fish and Wildlife Office.
KBCC plans to release the first of its captive-reared `alala into the forest later this year.
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ST. JUDE’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH in Ocean View was burglarized on Friday, the night after Ocean View Community Center was burglarized, reported Max Dible, of West Hawai`i Today. Ka`u Police Chief Burt Shimabukuro told Dible the church showed evidence of forced entry at the church, as did the community center.

Burt Shimabukuro

He said the burglaries may be connected, but that there was no definitive evidence so far.

The police report did not list the items stolen or specify whether the church had been vandalized. Anyone with information is asked to call police at 939-2520.

See westhawaiitoday.com.
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GOV. DAVID IGE PROPOSED a funding plan that he said is consistent with the state Constitution requirement to provide sufficient funding for administrative and operating expenses for the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands.
For Fiscal Year 2016, the state proposes replacing DHHL’s $9.63 million general fund appropriation for administration and operating expenses with $17.14 million in general funds. For FY17, the state proposes $17.8 million in general funds with fringe benefits of $5.7 million, for a total of $23.5 million for the department.
If approved by the state Legislature, the funding would be the highest level ever for DHHL.
“We want to give DHHL the tools and flexibility to reform and restructure the department. I will hold DHHL accountable, with the ultimate goal of giving beneficiaries greater access to DHHL programs and services,” Ige said.

Jobie Masagatani

DHHL’s funding has been varied over the years. From 2010-2013, the department received no general funds and used trust and special funds to operate.
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DEPARTMENT OF HAWAIIAN HOME LANDS remains focused on closing its funding gap in light of Gov. David Ige’s $17.1 million proposal for fiscal year 2016.

“This is definitely a positive step in the right direction, and the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands will capitalize on this momentum as we continue to work with the Legislature to close the gap before the end of this legislative session,” said Jobie Masagatani, Hawaiian Homes Commission Chairman and Director of the DHHL.
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Joe Tateyama and his wife at a Ka`u High reunion
in Las Vegas. Photo from Neal Kanda

MORE THAN 70 ALUMNI and friends of Ka`u High School have signed up so far to attend the annual school reunion, this year at the California Hotel in Las Vegas on June 24. Organizer Neal Kanda encourages everyone from Ka`u High to join in. “This is very exciting as we approach our June get-together,” Kanda said.

For more information, he can be reached at nkkanda2@gmail.com or 808-284-1066.
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HAWAI`I VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK has announced flight plans for this month. Management of the park requires 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.

Flights on April 8, 18, 21, 25 and 28 between 6 a.m. and noon shuttle crew, camp supplies, fencing material and equipment to Mauna Loa at about 9,000-ft. elevation.

On April 8 between 7 a.m. and 12 p.m., flights shuttle crew and camp supplies between Daniel K. Inouye Hwy (Saddle Road) and the northwest area of Kahuku for vegetation monitoring.
Flights shuttle crew to and from the western area of Kahuku around 7,500-foot elevation for vegetation monitoring on April 18 between 6 a.m. and 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. and 4 p.m.
Ungulate surveys and control work in Kahuku between 3,000- and 7,000-foot elevation take place on April 19 between 6 a.m. and 9 a.m.
In addition, USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory may conduct flight operations over Kilauea and Mauna Loa to assess volcanic activity and maintain instrumentation.
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Apprentice canoe builders learn from kupuna during restoration
of the Malolo. Photo from Pa`a Pono Miloli`i

MALOLO RETURNS TO MILOLI`I on Saturday, April 23. Pa`a Pono Miloli`i invites Ka`u residents to Miloli`i Fishing Village for the arrival and return home of the koa racing canoe.

The Malolo Project has been a three-year restoration project under the direction of Bill Rosehill, who is training the next generation of apprentice canoe builders in South Kona.

Originally built in the 1920s, the Malolo is one of the oldest and most storied koa racing canoes in the state’s history. The Malolo won and set the record at the 1954 Moloka`i Channel race and has been paddled by the legendary Duke Kahanamoku.

The event begins at 10 a.m. with traditional Hawaiian protocol and a blessing ceremony. Lunch follows with fellowship as residents welcome home not only the Malolo but her sister canoe the Nai`a, both fully restored to full racing and competition condition just in time for the 2016 regatta season.
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Hawaiian hoary bat Image from VAC

WILDLIFE ECOLOGIST FRANK J. Bonaccorso, Ph.D., of USGS Pacific Island Ecosystems Research Center, shares information on the Hawaiian hoary bat or `ope`ape`a tomorrow from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Volcano Art Center’s Niaulani Campus in Volcano Village. This endangered species of hairy-tailed bat is endemic to the Hawaiian Islands.

See volcanoartcenter.org.

RANGERS TEACH `UKULELE BASICS tomorrow from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Kilauea Visitor Center in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. The modern Hawaiian musical instrument evolved from the Machete de Braga, a small stringed instrument introduced to Hawai`i by Portuguese immigrants in the late 1800s. The `ukulele has become an iconic part of Hawaiian musical culture and remains popular among locals and foreigners alike.
Free; park entrance fees apply.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS ATPAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM ANDKAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

See kaucalendar.com/TheDirectory2016.html.

See kaucalendar.com/KauCalendar_April_2016.pdf.

`O Ka`u Kakou applied for a county grant for its annual Ka`u Coffee Trail Run, which begins at Ka`u Coffee Mill and winds through coffee orchards, pastures and forests with runners from Ka`u and as far away as Japan and Europe. Photo by Taylor's Treasures Photography

CONTROLLING MOSQUITOES that transmit dengue fever and Zika is a priority in Hawai`i Senate’s budget. The budget calls for 33 new vector control positions in the state Department of Health. Sen. Jill Tokuda, chair of the Ways & Means Committee, told Associated Press reporter Cathy Bussewitz that the action would restore pre-recession levels of staffing.

Dr. Virginia Pressler

State Department of Health Director Virginia Pressler told Bussewitz, “I can’t emphasize enough our vector control needs to control Zika.”

Yesterday, DOH reported that there have been no new cases of dengue fever confirmed on Hawai`i Island since March 23 and that no cases are potentially infectious to mosquitoes.

See hawaiitribune-herald.com.
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KA`U COFFEE TRAIL RUN is one event for which `O Ka`u Kakou is seeking funding from the Hawai`i County. The County Council’s Human Services & Social Services Committee has submitted its recommendations for funding of nonprofit organizations’ grant requests for Fiscal Year 2016-17.
In an application from Director Wayne Kawachi and Secretary Nadine Ebert, OKK requested $11,000 for its annual Ka`u Coffee Trail Run, which it described as “an international event, drawing runners from all over the United States as well as Japan and Europe … promoting Ka`u as an international destination as well as promoting the coffee industry. Additionally, the event provides a day of outdoor physical activity for the whole family by encouraging family registration.” The group expects 250 runners to participate this year, up from 170 in 2015. Last year, 100 volunteers worked 10 hours each on the event, OKK reported. Food is provided for all racers and volunteers.

OKK’s budget for the event, which is the same as last year’s, includes $1,400 for professional fees, $3,500 for operations, $5,500 for supplies and $600 for equipment. The county committee recommended $3,750 for the program, compared to last year’s $5,000.

OKK Director Wayne Kawachi
Photo by Julia Neal

OKK also applied for a grant to continue its sanitation program in Ka`u. The nonprofit has provided portable toilets at South Point and the Punalu`u boat ramp for four years. “Lacking restrooms at these well visited locations, many people choose to pollute the natural environment and spoil the beauty for others,” the application states. OKK has also provided portable restrooms at Ka`u Plantation Days and its annual Keiki Fishing Tournament. It is seeking $9,000 for operations to continue to provide this service, and the county recommended $5,500 in funding, up from $5,000 last year. According to its application, OKK last year received a grant of $3,500 from Hawai`i Tourism Authority to supplement the county grant for what it considers one of its most important programs, but finds that “it is hard to get additional support for this less glamorous program.”

The Human Services & Social Services Committee will consider recommendations for these and more OKK programs, as well as those of more nonprofits, at its meeting on Tuesday, April 19.
See future Ka`u Calendar News Briefs for more on grant applications from OKK and other Ka`u nonprofits.
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HAWAI`I DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION has secured a $100,000 grant to develop a detailed career readiness action plan, an essential step to expanding economic opportunity for young people in Ka`u and across the state.
“This grant will go a long way in building upon the various partnership projects that are focused on preparing our students for the workforce,” Superintendent Kathryn Matayoshi said. “We’re seeing positive results throughout our high schools as students create their path toward college and careers. Partnerships and grants like this are essential in our efforts, and we’re excited to expand on our collective initiatives to help students achieve their goals.”

Kathryn Matayoshi

Hawai`i is among 24 states and the District of Columbia to receive a New Skills for Youth grant that includes expert technical assistance to perform a diagnostic assessment of their career preparation system and prepare for implementation of a new action plan. The grants are one piece of a $75 million, five-year initiative developed by JPMorgan Chase, in partnership with the Council of Chief State School Officers and Advance CTE, aimed at increasing economic opportunity for young people by strengthening career-focused education, starting in high school and ending with post-secondary degrees or credentials aligned with business needs.
The grant enables DOE to begin a rigorous needs assessment to determine program strengths and necessary improvements. With that baseline set, a new three-year career readiness action plan will be developed to set goals and targets toward providing students equitable access to career pathway opportunities, along with identification and allocation of resources.
“States across the country are adjusting their career readiness programs to ensure they adequately prepare students for their next step after graduation,” said Chris Minnich, executive director of CCSSO. “States have seized this grant opportunity to pursue bold plans for pathways that will put kids on a course for success after high school and beyond.”
According to CCSSO, only about half of young Americans have a meaningful post-secondary credential that enables them to compete for good jobs, and the U.S. youth unemployment rate is more than double the national rate.
“We must address the youth career crisis, and it starts in our schools,” said Chauncy Lennon, Head of Workforce Initiatives at JP Morgan Chase. “These grants kick-start an effort to ensure career and technical education systems are better aligned with the needs of business and leaders throughout states are committed to tackling youth employment.”
In 2015, Hawai`i’s youth unemployment rate for ages 16 to 19 was 13 percent. For ages 20 to 24, the unemployment rate was seven percent, compared to Hawai`i’s overall rate of 3.7 percent for its entire labor force.
A growing number of Hawai`i’s public high school students are taking college-level courses and earning dual credits – for both high school and college – before they graduate from the 12th grade, according to a College and Career Readiness Report, released by Hawai`i P-20 Partnerships for Education.
Hawai`i will be eligible to apply for a phase two grant opportunity, which will require it to demonstrate the commitment and capacity to execute the action plans developed in its first phase.
This grant opportunity builds on CCSSO’s Career Readiness Initiative, launched in 2015 to help close the country’s skills gap. It is guided by recommendations made in Opportunities and Options, a report of CCSSO’s Career Readiness Task Force.

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IN SPORTS, KA`U boys volleyball teams hosted Hilo High yesterday. Junior varsity and varsity teams both lost in two games, with varsity scores of 10-25 and 22-25.

The softball team hosted Kealakehe on Monday, losing 3-17. The team plays its senior game against HPA today at 3 p.m.

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JEFF PETERSON RETURNS TO KA`U, presenting two programs at Ka`u libraries. The slack key artist has contributed to two Grammy Award-winning recordings and has been honored with five Na Hoku Hanohano Awards.
Programs celebrating National Library week are this Friday at 2 p.m. at Na`alehu Public Library and Tuesday, April 12 at 5:30 p.m. at Pahala Public & School Library.

Randy Lee teaches lei making tomorrow.
Photo from VAC

The 45-minute programs are suitable for all ages. Young children must be accompanied by a parent or adult caregiver.

For more information, call 939-2442 or 933-8888.

MASTER LEI MAKER Randy Lee shares his art at this week’s Aloha Friday cultural demonstration. Lee will be at Volcano Art Center Gallery in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. He uses a variety of natural materials to fashion lei from the freshest fern, leaves and flowers that he personally gathers from the rain forests of Pana`ewa.

See volcanoartcenter.org.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

See kaucalendar.com/TheDirectory2016.html.

See kaucalendar.com/KauCalendar_April_2016.pdf.

`O Ka`u Kakou has applied for county grants to help fund its annual Keiki Fishing Tournament at Punalu`u and other events. See more below. Photo by Peter Anderson

LEGISLATION LIMITING SOLAR PROJECTS in subdivisions on land zoned for agriculture passed the state Senate Ways & Means Committee this morning. The committee approved Ka`u Rep. Richard Creagan’s House Bill 2636, which would amend a law allowing solar on ag land to require special permit approval when a project’s solar energy production would total more that 25 kilowatts.

Creagan introduced the bill in response to a proposed project in Hawaiian Ocean View Ranchos that would place 30,000 solar panels on 26 lots scattered throughout the neighborhood. Creagan had referred to the Ranchos solar project as an “unintended consequence” of current law, which was intended to provide farmers and ranchers with an additional revenue stream.
If both chambers pass the bill upon final reading, it will go to Gov. David Ige. According to Creagan, the governor strongly supports the legislation and “actually suggested that it be done.”
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Rat lungworm disease was the topic of Sen. Russell Ruderman's
meeting with researchers and other Hawai`i Island legislators.
Photo from Office of Sen. Ruderman

BILLS CALLING FOR FUNDING to research rat lungworm disease have died at the state Legislature.

Although Ka`u’s Sen. Ruderman’s Senate Bill 2516 passed Committees on Water, Land & Agriculture and Consumer Protection & Health unamended, it did not receive a hearing before the Ways & Means Committee and died. The bill called for $1 million to go to University of Hawai`i at Hilo, the state Department of Health and the state Department of Land & Natural Resources for programs, studies and activities related to prevention and eradication of the disease.
According to the bill, DOH reported over seventy cases of rat lungworm disease on Hawai`i Island from 2001 to 2014, and there were many more cases in 2015, including at least two on Maui. The disease has claimed lives and caused crippling chronic disability. The cost to treat one severe case can exceed $1 million.
A companion House bill, HB 2223, introduced by Ka`u’s state Rep. Richard Creagan and other Hawai`i Island legislators, also died without being heard by assigned committees.
Ruderman yesterday hosted a meeting of the Big Island delegation and invited Dr. Susan Jarvi of UH Hilo Pharmacy School to speak about the current status of the disease.
“Hawai`i is the epicenter of this disease, and Dr. Jarvi has been conducting amazing research with very limited funding to raise our knowledge and awareness,” Ruderman said. “I am hopeful we can secure funding at the state level to address this disease, which has caused devastating long-term disability and even death.

“Thank you Dr. Jarvi for all you do, and mahalo to Dr. Nerurkar, Dr. Yanagihara, Dr. Kramer and Dr. Gosnell from UH-Manoa John A. Burns School of Medicine for joining the discussion and sharing your expertise.”
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OKK's annual Keiki Fishing Tournament is a huge volunteer effort,
with more than 125 people donating 1,000 hours this year to make
it a success. Photo by Peter Anderson

`O KA`U KAKOU’S annual Keiki Fishing Tournament at Punalu`u is one event for which the nonprofit applied for funding through Hawai`i County. The group applied for a $5,000 grant to fund operations and supplies, which includes 1,300 breakfasts and lunches. In 2016, 125 people put in 1,000 volunteer-hours to make the event a success. The County Council’s Human Resources & Social Services Committee recommended funding of $2,125 for the event, which OKK described in its application as promoting “a healthy love for the art of shoreline fishing by providing an opportunity for family participation in a supervised fishing tournament.”

OKK also applied for $7,000 for its annual Family Fun Fest, and the committee recommended $3,000 in grant funding. The annual event, held in conjunction with Na`alehu’s Fourth of July Parade, “provides fun, healthy activities for people of ages,” OKK’s grant application states. Last year, 60 volunteers gave 10 hours each to put on the event.

Funds for the effort would go toward operations, supplies and equipment. On its application, OKK states that it expects to serve 550 hot dogs, 850 shave ices and 150 adult lunches. It also expects 90 bingo participants and to serve 150 adult lunches to them and the volunteers.
“Any help we get from the county helps us give more to the community projects that we do not ask the county to help us with,” OKK’s application states.

These and other grant applications will be considered at the committee’s meeting on Tuesday, April 19.
See future Ka`u Calendar News Briefs for more on grant applications from other Ka`u nonprofits.

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Chief Ranger John Broward
Photo from NPS

A MAN FROM HOLLAND who was missing overnight from Kulanaokuaiki Campground in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park on Tuesday, April 5 has been located.
Gerrit Voortis, 63, and his wife were camping at Kulanaokuaiki, a campground located off Hilina Pali Road Tuesday afternoon. Voortis left his wife to go on a short hike by himself and did not take water, a phone or a backpack with him. Park dispatch was notified by another concerned camper when he failed to return later that afternoon. Neither a County of Hawai`i helicopter pilot nor the park’s search-and-rescue team could locate him by nightfall. The SAR team continued to search for him on the ground until 10 p.m.
Around 6:30 a.m. yesterday, the park’s contracted helicopter pilot spotted a glow from a small fire and located the man northeast of the campground. The pilot landed, and search-and-rescue rangers treated him for dehydration. Voortis was in good condition, but was cold, hungry and very thirsty. The small fire he built for warmth the night before was extinguished by park rangers.
Voortis and his wife were reunited at the park’s Visitor Emergency Operations Center Wednesday morning, and both expressed gratitude for the efforts made in his rescue.
“It’s extremely important to be prepared when going on any hike, whether it’s a short walk or an extended trek into the backcountry,” said Chief Ranger John Broward. “Plan ahead, research the area, and always have plenty of water.”

A detailed checklist of safety tips is provided at nps.gov/havo.

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A large part of the Overlook crater's inner edge fell into the lava
lake overnight, enlarging the crater's circumference.
Image from USGS/HVO

HALEMA`UMA`U'S OVERLOOK CRATER enlarged overnight. Hawaiian Volcano Observatory announced that a large part of the inner ledge in the crater fell into the lake at about 1:47 a.m.

While the crater circumference increased, the lake’s level dropped. Yesterday morning, the lake level was about 65 feet lower than it was on April 4. By this morning, the lake level had dropped an additional 31 feet to about 170 feet below the crater floor, the deepest it has been measured since Dec. 30, 2015.
See hvo.wr.usgs.gov.
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FORMER PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION Chair Mina Morita expressed her support for the $4.3 billion NextEra/Hawaiian Electric merger on her blog at minamoritaenergydynamics.com. Governor David Ige and several state agencies have rejected the deal as it currently stands, claiming that it is not in the best interest of Hawai`i residents.

Mina Morita

“NextEra is recognized as a top performing utility and company nationally,” Morita said. “There is little doubt about NextEra being financially and technically fit, willing and able, the typical standard in judging the capabilities of a entity to acquire a public utility. Other than this question of ‘fitness,’ the larger issue is whether the approval can be conditioned to satisfy a broader concern of the regulator to address public interest as defined by the regulator.

“It is a failure on the part of the state parties, possibly at the governor’s directive, that the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism, Office of State Planning and the Consumer Advocate have not made an attempt to negotiate a settlement to condition an approval.
“We need to put into perspective the state of Hawai`i’s responsibilities in this very important transaction between two private entities. The aforementioned state agencies are responsible for our state’s business climate. The state has the ability and duty to regulate and govern the environment NextEra functions in to align its business with the public interest. However, it appears that this isn’t a question of ‘fitness’ anymore. It has become an issue of an intransigent administration refusing to negotiate a possible settlement by its agencies to bring to the regulator, possibly in an attempt to stymie a business transaction between private companies at any cost, including the already damaged business climate in Hawai`i. Unfortunately, it’s more indicative of the state lacking confidence in its ability to regulate when it has the authority and power to do so.”
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Jeff Peterson returns to Ka`u.
Photo by Kim Taylor Reece

JEFF PETERSON presents two programs at Ka`u libraries. Programs celebrating National Library week are tomorrow at 2 p.m. at Na`alehu Public Library and Tuesday, April 12 at 5:30 p.m. at Pahala Public & School Library.

The 45-minute programs are suitable for all ages. Young children must be accompanied by a parent or adult caregiver.
For more information, call 939-2442 or 933-8888.

RANDY LEE SHARES THE ART of lei making tomorrow from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Volcano Art Center Gallery in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. Lee uses a variety of natural materials to fashion lei from the freshest fern, leaves and flowers that he personally gathers from the rain forests of Pana`ewa.
See volcanoartcenter.org.

THE THIRD ANNUAL WALK YOUR TALK hog hunting tournament is coming up on Saturday, April 16. According to organizers, the tournament is provided to hunters “to prove to everyone that you, your team and your dogs are worthy of being a top contender in the hog hunting industry.”

Hunting begins at 6 a.m., with weigh-in behind Ilima Street in Pahala from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Trophies go to first, second and third places in categories of biggest boar, biggest sow and longest tusk, as well as heaviest overall.

Applications and entry fees of $50 are due by Friday, April 15.
For more information, call 646-1316.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COMAND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

See kaucalendar.com/TheDirectory2016.html.

See kaucalendar.com/KauCalendar_April_2016.pdf.

Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park invites Ka`u residents and visitors to explore the park's wonders
for free during National Park Week, April 16 - 24. NPS Photo by Michael Szoenyi

GOV. DAVID IGE EMPHASIZED critical balance of species and people at a workshop yesterday. Ige kicked off the final two-day workshop of the Western Governors’ Species Conservation and Endangered Species Act Initiative by emphasizing the importance of preserving the state’s array of species while also supporting the people who live on the islands.

“It will take a great effort to balance the needs of the species here with the needs of Hawai`i’s human inhabitants,” Ige said.

Gov. David Ige hosts a Western Governors Association workshop.
Photo from WGA

“Hawai`i has been called the endangered species capitol of the world. A number of these species exist nowhere else. Since the arrival of humans in these islands, we’ve lost dozens of endemic species. Today, we have more endangered species than any other state. Of all the plants and birds known to be extinct in the nation, two-thirds are from Hawai`i.”

Ige listed mammals on the Endangered Species List, including the Hawaiian monk seal, whose population is currently only about 1,100 and decreasing approximately four percent per year. Other mammals on the list include the humpback whale and the Hawaiian hoary bat. Along with mammals, many species of birds, several reptiles like the honu, snails and a wide variety of plants are also on the list.

Gov. Ige pointed to an `alala recovery program as a bright spot
in reversing loss of species. Photo from San Diego Zoo
program at Volcano

“There are some bright spots,” in reversing loss of species, Ige said. He pointed to San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research biologists, with support from our Department of Land and Natural Resources, successfully hatching and raising 11 Hawaiian crow chicks, or `alala, bringing the population to 77, a significant increase from as few as 20 birds in 1994.

Ige detailed the state’s process for implementing habitat conservation plans, safe harbor agreements and incidental take licenses as recovery options for conserving and protecting the state’s threatened and endangered species. Participants are currently providing funding for a multitude of successful conservation projects throughout the state. This includes seabird colony protection through innovative fencing and predator control programs, waterbird protection through wetland restoration initiatives, forest restoration projects that enhance habitat of the Hawaiian Hoary Bat, native owl research and rehabilitation, and reestablishment of rare plant populations.
“These efforts are invaluable in the process of recovering the state’s endangered species, and they allow the continued operation of renewable energy enterprises,” Ige said. “It will take a continued, concerted effort to balance the needs of the native plant and wildlife species in our islands with the needs of Hawai`i’s human inhabitants. In moving forward, we take direction from the Native Hawaiians who were the first stewards of these islands – from the mountains to the sea.”
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BOYS & GIRLS CLUB has applied for county funding of its Pahala and Ocean View Out-of-School Fitness for Life program. The Pahala program requested $40,000, and the Ocean View program, $20,000. Hawai`i County Council’s Human Services & Social Services Committee recommended $8,750 and $7,500, respectively.

The club, which implements the program at locations islandwide, describes it as a healthy lifestyle initiative that instills physical activity habits to prevent obesity and its many associated chronic illnesses. Its goals for participating youth are to increasing daily physical activity, improve attitudes toward physical activity and improve knowledge of health benefits of the program, which focuses on daily moderate to vigorous physical activity. The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention have identified the program as a model for obesity prevention.
These and other grant applications will be considered at the committee’s Tuesday, April 19 meeting.
See future Ka`u News Briefs for more on grant applications from other Ka`u nonprofits.
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U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz

U.S. SEN. BRIAN SCHATZ yesterday cosponsored a bill to require the Federal Aviation Administration to collaborate with experts and consumer advocates to mandate minimum seat size standards consistent with airline passengers’ health and safety needs. The bill would direct the FAA to set standards for minimum seat width, legroom, padding and aisle width on all commercial passenger planes.

“In Hawai`i, air travel is central to our visitor industry, and residents depend on it for work, health care and to visit family,” Schatz said. “Passengers in Hawai`i and across the country are tired of getting less and less space for their hard-earned money. It is time to have the FAA step in to say enough is enough.”

The legislation comes after Hawai`i State Senate passed a resolution, SR121, that urges the federal Secretary of Transportation to set minimum sizes for airplane seats.
Currently, there are no federal standards on width of airline seats or on legroom length. Since 1978, legroom decreased from 35 inches to about 31 inches. Similarly, the average seat width on airlines has dropped from 18.5 inches in the 1990s to approximately 17 today.
Opponents of the legislation argue that airlines should be unrestricted in the way seats are configured in a plane’s cabin. Even after enactment of this legislation, airlines will largely retain the ability to provide varying seat sizes depending on a customer’s preference to pay for more comfortable seating, Schatz said. The issue being addressed in this bill is establishment of a reasonable standard that provides for safety and a minimum level of comfort for passengers.
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OCEAN VIEW COMMUNITY CENTER holds its monthly Pancake Breakfast tomorrow from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. Call 939-7033 for more information.

Friends of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park explore Sulphur Banks
and `Iliahi Trails Sunday. Photo from FHVNP

FRIENDS OF HAWAI`I VOLCANOES National Park explore Sulphur Banks and `Iliahi Trail Sunday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Starting at Kilauea Visitor Center, the trail passes Sulphur Banks, crosses Crater Rim Drive and then hooks up to `Iliahi Trail. This easy walk is mostly on flat and level ground.

Free for Friends members; non-members can join in order to attend.
Registration required at admin@fhvnp.org or 985-7373.

CELEBRATE THE NATIONAL PARK SERVICE’S 100th anniversary and the centennial of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park during National Park Week, April 16-24. Entrance fees will be waived nine full days, and a National Park Rx Day will be held on Sunday, April 24.

Hiking on the coast is one of many activities available at Hawai`i
Volcanoes National Park, which waives entry fees April 16 - 24.
NPS Photo by Jacob W. Frank

“There’s no better way to celebrate the centennial anniversaries of both Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park and the National Park Service than by inviting our community and visitors to enjoy the park at no charge,” Park Superintendent Cindy Orlando said. “Your park `ohana welcomes you to join us for a special program, reconnect with your favorite trail or stay after dark to admire the splendor of glowing lava within Halema`uma`u Crater.”
For Junior Ranger Day on Saturday, April 16, keiki 17 and younger are invited to join park rangers in Kahuku for a fun day of discovery from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Participants hike the historic lower Palm Trail and learn to make traditional string figures called hei. Call 985-6019 to register. The event is limited to 25 participants.
On Wednesday, April 20, kupuna hula group Haunani’s Aloha Expressions performs for free at Kilauea Visitor Center Auditorium from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
On the last day of National Park Week, Sunday, April 24, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., the park hosts a National Park Rx Day, a community health initiative to prescribe time in parks to promote wellness. Participants join park rangers and Dr. Craig Kadooka on an easy one-mile roundtrip hike of upper `Iliahi Trail. Meet at Kilauea Visitor Center lanai at 10 a.m. The first 200 walkers receive a reusable water bottle and fresh fruit. Hawaiian practitioners Edna and Sam Baldado demonstrate the heath benefits of kalo, and Ka`ohu Monfort shares how Hawaiians use plants to heal and cure. HMSA will also provide a table with health information.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

See kaucalendar.com/KauCalendar_April_2016.pdf.

See kaucalendar.com/TheDirectory2016.html.

Japanese hula sisters of Halau Hula O Leionalani, under the direction of Kumu Debbie Ryder, planted trees at Makanau during Merrie Monarch Festival Week. See more below. Photo from Debbie Ryder

KILAUEA’S SUMMIT LAVA LAKE LEVEL yesterday rose slightly after a four-day deflationary period that dropped the level to about 190 feet below the floor of the caldera, Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists reported. Summit tiltmeters recorded an inflationary trend starting at about 7 p.m.

An HVO geologist uses a laser rangefinder to measure depth of the lava
lake in the Overlook crater at Kilauea's summit. Photo from USGS/HVO

During the deflation, seismic activity across the volcano did not change significantly, with fluctuations in summit tremor amplitudes related to spattering along edges of the lava lake as rocks broke loose and fell into the lake.

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MAKANAU AND PUNALU`U FISHPOND RESTORATION are among projects proposed by the Uhane Pohaku Na Moku O Hawai`i nonprofit led by Kawehi and Debbie Ryder. The group has applied for county grants “to help restore and preserve the Punalu`u ahupua`a,” makai and mauka.
“Our project will work with at-risk youth, ages 10-21, islandwide,” Uhane’s grant application states. Makai, the project includes “clearing vegetation growing over Ninoole and Hilo`e fishponds” and replacing them with coastal plants, according to the application. Future plans include a boardwalk around the ponds and using them for aquaculture education and farming, says the proposal.

Uhane’s mauka project is restoration of Makanau, which the group describes as being “rich in biological and cultural diversity.” The application states that the group wants to “teach the youth of its Hawaiian traditions so that the Hawaiian culture can continue to thrive in today’s youth, our next generation, so that they can continue to pass on the traditions of old.”

The heiau at Makanau is cared for by Demetrius Oliveira, of Pahala,
under an agreement with Olson. Photo from Debbie Ryder

Uhane requested $57,199 from the county for the projects, and County Council’s Human Services & Social Services Committee recommended $7,000. Other possible funding sources listed for the project are $346,994 for a state grant-in-aid and $75,000 from the state Office of Youth Services.

Uhane’s projects will be managed by new Executive Director Kawehi Ryder, said Debbie Ryder. She explained that former Uhane director Steven Pavao and former project contact person Roxanne Costa are no longer with Uhane. They were working with a Safe House for girls that was established by Uhane on `Ohi`a Street in Pahala, but the program has ended, Debbie Ryder explained. Now called Hale `Ohi`a, the former safe house will be use for other community and youth programs, she said.
She noted that Uhane recently hosted Family Court Judge Henry T. Nakamoto for a site visit to the farm that the organization is caring for in Wood Valley. She said that Uhane is applying to help youth through offering community service at the farm and other Uhane sites.
Regarding Makanau, she said that Uhane sends a “big mahalo nui loa for the right of entry access to Makanau for the Ka`u Community doing restoration work up at the Mauna.” The organization recently hosted Japanese hula sisters with Halau Hula O Leionalani, under the direction of Kumu Debbie Ryder, at Makanau during the Merrie Monarch Festival. Uhane has also been helping Demetrius Oliveira, of Pahala, with caring for the heiau under an arrangement between Edmund C. Olson and Oliveira.
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Stargazers atop Makanau enjoy Ka`u's dark skies.
Photo from Ka`u Coffee Festival

VISITATION TO MAKANAU is allowed by appointment only. The Edmund C. Olson Trust allows community organizations to visit Makanau through requests, with consideration of the family ranching in the area and events and projects planned for the mountain. The schedule over the next two months includes a group from Kamehameha Schools and a stargazing event during the Ka`u Coffee Festival on Friday, May 20. Community groups wishing to schedule access to Makanau can call Olson Trust land manager John Cross at 987-4229.

For the stargazing event, participants will meet at Ka`u Coffee Mill and travel together to Makanau, where they discover Ka`u’s dark skies. Cross and others will speak of the history of lands below and the significance of Makanau and the night skies. To sign up, call 928-0550.

For more, see kaucoffeefest.com and kaucoffeemill.com.
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AS MAUNA LOA SHOWS SIGNS OF UNREST, Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists discuss its spectacular 1950 eruption in the current issue of Volcano Watch.
“In March 1950, Mauna Loa inflation was so significant that tilt was recorded at the summit of Kilauea. Two months later, continuing deformation was accompanied by a sharp increase in small earthquakes, signaling the increased probability of an eruption.
“On May 29, an island-shaking magnitude-6.4 earthquake occurred beneath Mauna Loa's west flank. Sixty-four hours later, at 9:04 p.m., HST, on June 1, the eruption began, with fissures opening at the summit and uppermost Southwest Rift Zone of the volcano.
“The fissure eruptions quickly spread down rift—from 3,845 to 3,350 meters (12,600 to 11,000 feet) elevation—sending floods of lava to the west and southeast. Volcanic gas emissions fed a mushroom-shaped cloud up to 3,050 m (10,000 ft) high above the volcano's summit.

“By 10:30 p.m., the Southwest Rift Zone had ‘unzipped’ down to an elevation of 2,380 m (7800 ft), unleashing an 18-km- (11-mi-) long trail of spectacular lava fountains that fed several large-volume, fast-moving lava flows. These flows reached the south Kona coast in about three hours, endangering lives, destroying property and severing the main highway and telephone lines along the way.

During Mauna Loa's 1950 eruption, three large, fast-moving lava flows
flows advanced down its west flank and crossed Hwy 11 before reaching
the ocean. USGS/HVO from Air National Guard

“The eruption lasted 23 days and produced 376 million cubic meters (491 million cubic yards) of lava, with over 90 percent of that volume issued during the first six days of the eruption. With an eruption rate 200 times greater than that of Kilauea's current eruption, the 1950 Mauna Loa eruption produced more lava in six days than Pu`u `O`o typically erupts in over four years!

“Field observations and geologic sampling of lava from the entire extent of the 1950 fissures document changes in the lava chemistry and mineralogy over space and time during this phenomenal event.

“At elevations above 3,350 m (11,000 ft), the earliest 1950 fissures erupted comparatively low-temperature magma, cooled and partly crystallized within a shallow summit reservoir that presumably also fed earlier eruptions.

“As the 1950 eruption progressed, lower elevation fissures erupted increasing volumes of hotter and more ‘primitive’ magma with an abundance of minerals formed at high pressures and temperatures. These minerals crystallized from their host magma within the mantle (around 18 km, or 11 mi, deep) or were incorporated as magma rose through deep roots of the massive volcano—a sign that magma ascended quickly from great depths.

“Chemical zonation patterns of individual mineral crystals in the 1950 lava provide clues about the earliest stages of magmatic activity beneath the volcano. Crystals erupted from lower elevations indicate that magma began to ascend within the upper mantle up to 8 months before the eruption, and that the rate and amount of magma transport was increasing in the weeks prior to the eruption.
“Laboratory experiments were performed to test how long minerals formed at high pressures in the mantle could survive low pressures at shallow depths within Mauna Loa's magma chamber. Results show that some crystals erupted below 3,350 m (11,000 ft) could not have survived longer than a day in the shallow edifice—further testament to the unusually rapid ascent of magma immediately before the eruption began.
“During the 1950 Mauna Loa eruption, huge volumes of magma were transported rapidly from great depths with little warning of just how furious the eruption would be. Our findings suggest that key indicators of another such remarkable eruption might occur just hours before magma reaches the surface.”

See hvo.wr.usgs.gov.volcanowatch.

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TOMORROW IS THE DEADLINE to register for Ka`u Rural Health Community Association’s 19th annual Membership Meeting & Conference. This year’s theme is Rural Health at Work in Our Communities. The event takes place Friday, April 15 from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Pahala Community Center.
Register at 928-0101.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

See kaucalendar.com/TheDirectory2016.html.

See kaucalendar.com/KauCalendar_April_2016.pdf.

The Return of the `Alala is the topic at After Dark in the Park Tuesday evening. See more below. Photo from NPS

KA`U SCHOOLS HAVE AIR QUALITY challenges from volcanic emissions as well as heat challenges from high temperatures in classrooms. However, air-conditioning is apparently available in Ka`u schools at only the same low level as in other public schools that have lesser vog challenges. According to a story in this morning’s Hawai`i Tribune-Herald, Ka`u High and Pahala Elementary School, with 48 classrooms, has five with air conditioning – 10 percent. Na`alehu School has 30 classrooms, and two of them are air-conditioned – seven percent.

Five classrooms at Ka`u High & Pahala Elementary School
are air-conditioned. Photo by Julia Neal

In her Tribune-Herald story, Kirsten Johnson presents Chiefess Kapiolani Elementary School in Hilo as an example of the need for AC in public schools. She quotes longtime teacher Jacqueline Kubo Luna saying, “Definitely the windows have to always be open. If they’re not, it’s just scorching in here.” The story says that second-grade instructor Luna “is well-prepared. She’s got a roll of paper towels on hand to stop frequent, heat-triggered nosebleeds. She’s contrived tricks to grab students’ attention — such as clapping loudly or chiming, ‘Wake up and smell the cocoa!’ when they slump over in a mid-afternoon humidity daze. And when inside temperatures climb into the 90s or even triple digits, she’ll lead her 19 students outside. ‘We’ll just go sit out in the shade, where there’s a pocket of breeze,’ she said. ‘Just to get out of the classroom. Because it’s just too hot.’ Luna’s Kapiolani classroom is among thousands in Hawai`i that lack schoolwide air-conditioning.”

According to the Tribune-Herald story, “Estimates show installing AC in every school in the state would run up a $1.7 billion price tag. The cost per classroom can run as high as $30,000. Meanwhile, the department’s yearly electric bill runs around $48 million, which increases each time new systems are added.” In addition to costs of air-conditioning itself, rewiring becomes another expense for some of the older schools, like those in Ka`u.

See more on the quest to air-condition public schools at hawaiitribune-herald.com.
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A DRY OPELU PROJECT CONDUCTED by Pahala-based Uhane Pohaku Na Moku O Hawai`i is one for which the nonprofit is seeking county funding. The hui began the project last year and has applied for county funding to continue it. “We are focusing on identifying fishermen in the South Kona district that are wanting to pass the tradition on,” the grant application states. “We will continue the dry opelu process, but will now teach the youth how to catch the fish with the use of the upena (net) to catch opelu and eventually boat fishing. The youth will learn the food bait process (palu). They will cultivate the taro and pumpkin that is used for fish food.”

According to county records, Uhane requested $35,900 for the project, and County Council’s Human Services & Social Services Committee recommended $8,250. Last year, the project received a county grant of $5,000.
Another grant application from Uhane requested $56,349 for its Palehua Farm Project, which will work with at-risk youth on a farm in Pahala, according to the application. The project “is a pu`uhonua compass, with our kupuna as the foundation, that enlightens our youth service projects with a working farm in progress,” the application states. The grant would be used to expand traditional Hawaiian food production at the farm. “Cultural food sustainability is what we want to teach each of our youth and their families,” Uhane says.
The county committee recommended $9,500 in grant funding for this project. Last year, it also received $5,000.
These and other grant applications will be considered at the committee’s meeting on Tuesday, April 19.
See future Ka`u Calendar News Briefs for more on grant applications from other Ka`u nonprofits.
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KA`U HOMEOWNERS CAN APPLY for USDA Rural Development funding to preserve rural homes in need of repair. Housing Preservation Grant zero-percent interest loans through Hale Aloha `O Hilo Habitat for Humanity are available to repair homes in need of health and safety repairs or accessibility improvements.

Those applying must have clear title to the property in fee simple, have income and assets not exceeding HPG Program guidelines, have owned and occupied the home for at least a year before applying, have sufficient equity to cover needed repairs and be able to repay the no-interest loan over 20 years.

The dwelling must be a legal structure located in a rural area (anywhere on island except Hilo) and have defects that pose health and safety hazards to occupants or be in need of improvements to make the dwelling accessible for a handicapped occupant.

Repairs are performed by a licensed general contractor hired by the homeowner.
Loan is secured by a mortgage and promissory note with 20 years to repay.
Program is funded by federal USDA Rural Development and HAO Hilo Habitat and is being carried out by Habitat as part of its affordable housing mission.
HPG is an equal opportunity program. Discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, ancestry/national origin, sex, physical or mental disability, marital status, age or HIV infection is prohibited by federal law and Habitat for Humanity policy.
Funding is limited and must be spent as soon as possible.
Call Mary Finley at 967-7230 to apply or for further information.
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OCEAN VIEW RESIDENT Jose Guadalupe-Rodriguez has been arrested and charged with negligent homicide in the first degree, manslaughter, leaving the scene of a fatal accident and tampering with physical evidence, John Burnett reported in Hawai`i Tribune-Herald.

Responding to a 7:15 p.m. call on Jan. 19, police determined that an unknown sedan-type vehicle had been traveling north on Paradise Parkway when it failed to yield the right of way at the intersection with Kona Drive and collided with Ling Oniel, who had been traveling west on Kona Drive on a black moped. Following the collision, the sedan and its operator fled from the scene prior to police arrival. Through investigation, police were able to determine that the vehicle may have been a white 1992-1995 Honda Civic.
Oniel was taken to Kona Community Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 11:30 p.m.
Burnett reported that Guadalupe-Rodriguez was already in custody on separate charges when arrested. He remains at Hawai`I Community Correctional Center, with bail set at $75,000.
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Jeff Peterson returns to Ka`u on Tuesday.

JEFF PETERSON celebrates National Library Week Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. at Pahala Public & School Library. The 45-minute program is suitable for all ages. Young children must be accompanied by a parent or adult caregiver.

For more information, call 928-2015.

THE RETURN OF THE `ALALA is the topic Tuesday at After Dark in the Park. `Alala, the native Hawaiian crow, once lived across Hawai`i Island. Now, due to a variety of threats in the wild, these birds are found only in captivity. Successful captive breeding and conservation efforts have helped rescue this native Hawaiian species from the brink of extinction. This fall, `alala will be returned home to the wild, and these very intelligent birds will take their place once again in Hawaiian forests. Lea Ka`aha`aina, of Keauhou Bird Conservation Center, and special guest USGS Research Wildlife Biologist Paul Banko discuss the release and recovery of the `alala, a beloved and unique bird found nowhere else on earth.

The program begins a 7 p.m. at Kilauea Visitor Center Auditorium in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. $2 donations support park programs; park entrance fees apply.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.