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| Dr. Robert Richmond, Narrissa P. Spies, Cheryl Ka'uhane Lupenui, Lelemia Irvine, Dr. Albert S. Kim. See story below. Photo from The Kohala Center |
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| Waikapuna, in orange is on the PONC agenda for purchase on Monday. |
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The awardees are Narrissa P. Spies, who is pursuing a doctorate in zoology, and Lelemia Irvine, a doctoral candidate in civil and environmental engineering. They each receive $45,000 and mentorship through the fellowship program to enable them to focus on completing and defending their dissertations during the 2017–2018 academic year.
The Kohala Center's Hawaiian Scholars Doctoral Fellowship Program supports the work of emerging Native Hawaiian scholars who advance knowledge of Hawai'i's natural and cultural landscape and Hawaiian history, politics, and society. The one-year fellowships are funded with support from Kamehameha Schools, the Deviants from the Norm Fund, and Dr. Paul and Elizabeth Nakayama.
According its statement, "'The Kohala Center is committed to cultivating indigenous leadership and increasing the representation and visibility of Kānaka 'Ōiwi (Native Hawaiian) scholars in academia, research institutions, and publications,' said Cheryl Ka'uhane Lupenui, president and chief executive officer of The Kohala Center. 'We are excited to welcome Narrissa and Lelemia to a larger cohort of 35 distinguished alumni who are advancing 'ike Hawai'i (Hawaiian knowledge) for generations to follow.'"
The organization also explains the research of each scholar, as follows.
"In the face of declining coral health in Hawai'i and beyond due to rising ocean temperatures, pollutants, and sediment runoff, Spies' research investigates, at a molecular level, how certain species of coral are thriving despite stress. After decades of ecosystem degradation in Honolulu Harbor, compounded by a massive molasses spill in 2013, Spies observed two resilient coral species that continue to thrive in the harbor. Her efforts focus on understanding the conditions under which these corals continue to adapt to stress and regenerate, in hopes of unlocking clues that could benefit corals struggling to survive in other parts of Hawai'i and the world.
"'While corals continue to face stress as a result of climate change, these two coral species serve as excellent models for studying the resilience of corals to stress, and may provide insights that can help resource managers in other parts of the world,' Spies said. "My work lays the foundation for understanding resilient coral species, which can hopefully give us clues as to why they're so well adapted to inhospitable habitats such as harbors. If there are still healthy corals in Hawai'i in 50 years, I hope it will be because we've been able to build off the work I've done throughout my Ph.D. and applied this to other corals on our reefs.'"
Spies was born and raised on Hawai'i Island and received her bachelor's and master's degrees at the University of Hawai'i at Hilo. Her mentor for the fellowship year is Dr. Robert Richmond, professor and director of the Kewalo Marine Laboratory, which is part of the Pacific Biosciences Research Center at UH Mānoa.
Regarding the scholarship for Irvine, Kohala Center states, "The aim of Irvine's dissertation is to develop a better understanding of low-impact development and green infrastructure approaches. He uses computational fluid dynamics and 3-D modeling techniques to solve engineering challenges to predict process performance of these engineered systems. Irvine's research will help find new ways to increase sustainable landscapes, communities, villages, and cities. One particular area of focus examines bio-swales technology as a means to improve stormwater management, protect Hawai'i's terrestrial and marine ecosystems from non-point source pollutants, and reduce the potential for urban flooding."
Irvine said, "'My life's research work in water has taken me to more than 20 countries to learn how to solve challenges in transforming rain's tears to clean water,' Irvine said. 'My work in sustainability merges engineering and culture in an effort to solve some of the daunting problems Hawai'i faces. Through the mo'olelo (written and oral narratives) and active mentorship of my 'ohana (family) and kumu (teachers), I learned that I am descended from great engineers, and I strive to channel their wisdom from within to help bring long life to my 'ohana, our island communities, and Hōnua (Earth) itself.'"
Irvine is from Wai'anae, O'ahu, and received his bachelor's and two master's degrees from UH Mānoa. He is being mentored by Dr. Albert S. Kim, an associate professor in the department of civil and environmental engineering at UH Mānoa.
Since 2008, Kohala Center's doctoral and postdoctoral fellowship programs have awarded $1.57 million in support to 37 Native Hawaiian scholars, many of whom kicked off their year in Pahala and have since received tenure in academic institutions and published original research. Kohala Center is seeking new partners "so that it may continue to offer fellowships to advance intellectual leadership rooted in Hawai'i," according to a news release from the organization.
The Kohala Center is a Hawai'i Island-based nonprofit focused on research, conservation, and education.
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A VETERANS ADMINISTRATION TELEHEALTH KIOSK SYSTEM is coming to Ocean View, according to the Ocean View Community Association's Newsletter, Ocean Views and News!
The system, donated to OCVA by Iron Bow Healthcare Solutions and Global Med, is planned to be installed and tested at the Ocean View Community Center, along with volunteer training, the week of Sept. 18-22.
The newsletter says, "The state-of-the-art system is expected to give veterans in rural communities access to VA medical services. This pilot clinic is designed to reach the Veterans in the Ocean View Community and surrounding area. The capabilities of the Telehealth system are extensive, enabling medical testing, diagnosis and treatment services remotely. A VA doctor will be able to help veterans in Ocean View using this kiosk."
A special Open House at OVCC is planned for Veterans to preview the Telehealth Medical Equipment from 10 a.m. to noon on Thursday, Sept. 28. For more information, call 939-7033.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter.
PRAISE FOR NATIONAL GUARD SOLIDERS AND AIRMEN for their help with Hurricanes Harvey and Irma came from Ka'ū's Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard on Friday as she received an award from the National Guard Association of the United States. The Charles Dick Medal of Merit was presented at the 139th General Conference & Exhibition in Louisville, KY, in recognition of her distinguished legislative contributions to the National Guard.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter.
FRIENDS OF KA'Ū LIBRARIES will hold its annual meeting at Pāhala Plantation House on Wednesday, Sept. 13, at 96-3209 Maile Street beginning at 6 p.m. Interested persons are invited to attend.
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WOOD VALLEY WATER COOPERATIVE will hold its annual meeting at Pāhala Plantation House, 96-3209 Maile St., on Saturday, Sept. 16, from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter.
HAWAI'I FARMERS UNION United has announced its annual Ka'ū chapter meeting, to be held at Pāhala Plantation House, at 96-3209 Maile St., on Saturday, Sept. 30, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Members and friends are invited to participate in the Ka'ū Chapter business and Convention discussion, election of board members and a potluck dinner.
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A GOFARM HAWAI'I AGCURIOUS INFORMATION SESSION, presented by the Kohala Center and the GoFarm Hawai'i Farmer Training Program, takes place Thursday, Sept. 14, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the North Hawai'i Education and Research Center in Honoka'a (45-539 Plumeria St.)
The Kohala Center explains that the event includes an overview of Hawai'i's agricultural industry. "Learn about what's involved in farming—both as a farmer and farm worker—including how to get started, challenges and opportunities, and lifestyle."
Prospective students wishing to enroll in the full GoFarm Hawai'i program must attend this session. Contact Derrick Kiyabu at derrick@gofarmhawaii.org or 808-220-2312 to register.
A MEMBERSHIP MEETING AND POTLUCK, open to members and the public, will be hosted by Hawai'i Farmers Union United East Hawai'i Chapter on Saturday, Sept. 16, from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at a private farm in Onomea. "Activities will include hands-on farm work, chapter updates, potluck lunch, and a special presentation from Hawai'i Island Swine Producers Cooperative about no smell piggeries using localized feed. There is no cost to attend. Please contact Drake Weinert at drakew@gmail.com to register and receive directions to the farm."
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter.
The Kohala Center's Hawaiian Scholars Doctoral Fellowship Program supports the work of emerging Native Hawaiian scholars who advance knowledge of Hawai'i's natural and cultural landscape and Hawaiian history, politics, and society. The one-year fellowships are funded with support from Kamehameha Schools, the Deviants from the Norm Fund, and Dr. Paul and Elizabeth Nakayama.
According its statement, "'The Kohala Center is committed to cultivating indigenous leadership and increasing the representation and visibility of Kānaka 'Ōiwi (Native Hawaiian) scholars in academia, research institutions, and publications,' said Cheryl Ka'uhane Lupenui, president and chief executive officer of The Kohala Center. 'We are excited to welcome Narrissa and Lelemia to a larger cohort of 35 distinguished alumni who are advancing 'ike Hawai'i (Hawaiian knowledge) for generations to follow.'"
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Dr. Robert Richmond with Doctoral Fellowship awardee Narrissa P. Spies. Photo from The Kohala Center |
"In the face of declining coral health in Hawai'i and beyond due to rising ocean temperatures, pollutants, and sediment runoff, Spies' research investigates, at a molecular level, how certain species of coral are thriving despite stress. After decades of ecosystem degradation in Honolulu Harbor, compounded by a massive molasses spill in 2013, Spies observed two resilient coral species that continue to thrive in the harbor. Her efforts focus on understanding the conditions under which these corals continue to adapt to stress and regenerate, in hopes of unlocking clues that could benefit corals struggling to survive in other parts of Hawai'i and the world.
"'While corals continue to face stress as a result of climate change, these two coral species serve as excellent models for studying the resilience of corals to stress, and may provide insights that can help resource managers in other parts of the world,' Spies said. "My work lays the foundation for understanding resilient coral species, which can hopefully give us clues as to why they're so well adapted to inhospitable habitats such as harbors. If there are still healthy corals in Hawai'i in 50 years, I hope it will be because we've been able to build off the work I've done throughout my Ph.D. and applied this to other corals on our reefs.'"
Spies was born and raised on Hawai'i Island and received her bachelor's and master's degrees at the University of Hawai'i at Hilo. Her mentor for the fellowship year is Dr. Robert Richmond, professor and director of the Kewalo Marine Laboratory, which is part of the Pacific Biosciences Research Center at UH Mānoa.
Regarding the scholarship for Irvine, Kohala Center states, "The aim of Irvine's dissertation is to develop a better understanding of low-impact development and green infrastructure approaches. He uses computational fluid dynamics and 3-D modeling techniques to solve engineering challenges to predict process performance of these engineered systems. Irvine's research will help find new ways to increase sustainable landscapes, communities, villages, and cities. One particular area of focus examines bio-swales technology as a means to improve stormwater management, protect Hawai'i's terrestrial and marine ecosystems from non-point source pollutants, and reduce the potential for urban flooding."
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| Dr. Albert S. Kim, with Doctoral Fellowship awardee Lelemia Irvine. Photo from The Kohala Center |
Irvine is from Wai'anae, O'ahu, and received his bachelor's and two master's degrees from UH Mānoa. He is being mentored by Dr. Albert S. Kim, an associate professor in the department of civil and environmental engineering at UH Mānoa.
Since 2008, Kohala Center's doctoral and postdoctoral fellowship programs have awarded $1.57 million in support to 37 Native Hawaiian scholars, many of whom kicked off their year in Pahala and have since received tenure in academic institutions and published original research. Kohala Center is seeking new partners "so that it may continue to offer fellowships to advance intellectual leadership rooted in Hawai'i," according to a news release from the organization.
The Kohala Center is a Hawai'i Island-based nonprofit focused on research, conservation, and education.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter.
The system, donated to OCVA by Iron Bow Healthcare Solutions and Global Med, is planned to be installed and tested at the Ocean View Community Center, along with volunteer training, the week of Sept. 18-22.
The newsletter says, "The state-of-the-art system is expected to give veterans in rural communities access to VA medical services. This pilot clinic is designed to reach the Veterans in the Ocean View Community and surrounding area. The capabilities of the Telehealth system are extensive, enabling medical testing, diagnosis and treatment services remotely. A VA doctor will be able to help veterans in Ocean View using this kiosk."
A special Open House at OVCC is planned for Veterans to preview the Telehealth Medical Equipment from 10 a.m. to noon on Thursday, Sept. 28. For more information, call 939-7033.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter.
PRAISE FOR NATIONAL GUARD SOLIDERS AND AIRMEN for their help with Hurricanes Harvey and Irma came from Ka'ū's Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard on Friday as she received an award from the National Guard Association of the United States. The Charles Dick Medal of Merit was presented at the 139th General Conference & Exhibition in Louisville, KY, in recognition of her distinguished legislative contributions to the National Guard.
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| Rep. Tulsi Gabbard priased the National Guard for its help with Hurricanes Harvey and Irma during the National Guard Association of the United States meeting Friday, where she received an award. |
“I’m truly grateful for the privilege of serving in the Hawai'i Army National Guard, and in Congress, where in both capacities, I am focused on the safety and security of the people of Hawai'i and our country," said Gabbard.
“As we are witnessing the devastation being left in the wake of Hurricane Harvey and now Hurricane Irma, thousands of National Guard soldiers and airmen from across the country are responding to the rescue, relief, and recovery efforts. These are every day Americans who have civilian jobs, are going to school, raising families, yet who maintain constant readiness and willingness to stand up at a moment’s notice to respond to disasters here at home, and to protect the nation when duty calls. I'm humbled to receive this award and as a member of the House Armed Services Committee, will continue to do my best every day to honor those who serve our country and make sure they have what they need to continue serving the American people,” said Gabbard.
Hawai'i's State Adjutant General Arthur "Joe" Logan said, “Congresswoman Gabbard joins the ranks of exceptional Hawai'i elected officials, like U.S. Sen. Daniel K. Akaka, who've worked diligently for the National Guard not just within their state but throughout the nation. Congresswoman Gabbard is the quintessential Soldier-Statesperson who ensures the National Guard continues to be Ready and Relevant within our States and the Nation," he said.
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A BIODIGESTER WORKSHOP presented by Hawai’i Organic Farming Association takes place Wednesday, Sept. 13, from 9 a.m. to noon. at the Kealekekua Ranch Center in Captain Cook (82-6066 Māmalahoa Hwy).
South Kona farmer Doug Pittman will show participants how to make a biodigester to create fuel from green waste. Workshop will include a demonstration of how to feed the biodigester and use the resulting methane gas and fertilizer. The cost is $25 per person ($20 for HOFA members). To register, contact Una Greenaway at 808-328-8888 or visit hawaiiorganic.org.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter.
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| Pāhala Plantation House hosts three Ka'ū annual meetings this month, Friends of Ka'ū Libraries, Wood Valley Water Cooperative and Hawai'i Farmers Union United. Photo by William Neal |
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter.
HAWAI'I FARMERS UNION United has announced its annual Ka'ū chapter meeting, to be held at Pāhala Plantation House, at 96-3209 Maile St., on Saturday, Sept. 30, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Members and friends are invited to participate in the Ka'ū Chapter business and Convention discussion, election of board members and a potluck dinner.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter.
A GOFARM HAWAI'I AGCURIOUS INFORMATION SESSION, presented by the Kohala Center and the GoFarm Hawai'i Farmer Training Program, takes place Thursday, Sept. 14, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the North Hawai'i Education and Research Center in Honoka'a (45-539 Plumeria St.)The Kohala Center explains that the event includes an overview of Hawai'i's agricultural industry. "Learn about what's involved in farming—both as a farmer and farm worker—including how to get started, challenges and opportunities, and lifestyle."
Prospective students wishing to enroll in the full GoFarm Hawai'i program must attend this session. Contact Derrick Kiyabu at derrick@gofarmhawaii.org or 808-220-2312 to register.
A MEMBERSHIP MEETING AND POTLUCK, open to members and the public, will be hosted by Hawai'i Farmers Union United East Hawai'i Chapter on Saturday, Sept. 16, from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at a private farm in Onomea. "Activities will include hands-on farm work, chapter updates, potluck lunch, and a special presentation from Hawai'i Island Swine Producers Cooperative about no smell piggeries using localized feed. There is no cost to attend. Please contact Drake Weinert at drakew@gmail.com to register and receive directions to the farm."
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter.
UPCOMING EVENTS FOR FALL TROJAN SPORTS:
Girls Volleyball: Wednesday, Sept. 13, Kamehameha vs. Ka'ū, home game.
Competitive Cheerleading: Wednesday, Sept. 13, at Hilo.
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Girls Volleyball: Wednesday, Sept. 13, Kamehameha vs. Ka'ū, home game.
Competitive Cheerleading: Wednesday, Sept. 13, at Hilo.
Eight-Man Football: Saturday, Sept.16, Ka'ū vs. Kohala, away game.
Cross Country: Saturday, Sept. 16, Ka'ū vs. Kea'au, away game.
Bowling: Saturday, Sept. 16, Ka'ū vs. Hilo & Konawaena at Kona Bowl.
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| Register by tomorrow, Sept. 11, to avoid higher entry fees. For more details, see the Ka'ū News Briefs from Aug. 30, 2017. |
KA'Ū COFFEE TRAIL RUN OFFERS AN EARLY ENTRY FEE through tomorrow, Monday, Sept. 11. The 'O Ka'ū Kākou sponsored race takes place Saturday, Sept. 23.
Staggered starts begin at 7 a.m., with all races beginning and ending at the Ka‘ū Coffee Mill at 96-2696 Wood Valley Road. In addition to goodie bags, each registered participant will receive entry into a door prize drawing valued at $700.
SENIOR I.D.'s for people aged 60 and older will be issued on tomorrow, Sept. 11, at Pāhala Senior Housing Center, from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. and at Nā‘ālehu Community Center from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. For more information, call 928-3100.
IMUA KA'Ū WORKSHOP will be held at Ocean View Community Center on Monday, Sept. 11, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Imua Ka'ū is a group dedicated to improving the well being of the Ka'ū community and residents. For more details, call 939-7033.
REGISTER KEIKI GRADES K-8 FOR ART CLASSES IN PĀHALA.
Tree of Life Thumbprint Art: register until Sept. 12. The art class will take place at Pāhala Community Center on Wednesday, Sept. 13, from 3p.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call 928-3102.
Tissue Art: register Sept. 11 until Sept. 19. The art class will take place at Pāhala Community Center on Wednesday, Sept. 20, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. For more, call 928-3102.
SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY LEGAL SERVICES will be available at Ocean View Community Center on Thursday, Sept. 14, from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. For more details, call 939-7033.
RED CROSS VOLUNTEERS MEET THURSDAY, Sept. 14, at 7 p.m., in the HOVE Road maintenance Corp. office. The meeting is meant for volunteers and those interested in becoming volunteers. For more, call Hannah Uribes at 929-9953.
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REGISTER KEIKI FOR SUNFLOWER CRAFT until Sept. 15. The craft class, for keiki ages 6 to 14, will take place on Monday, Sept. 18, at Kahuku Park from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Call 929-9113 for more.
REGISTER 5TH GRADE GIRLS FOR GEMS BY SEPT. 15. Ka‘ū fifth grade girls are invited to start registering for GEMS, Girls Exploring Math and Science. The annual all day event has been set for the Crown Marriot King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel for Nov. 9.
Registration is on a first come, first served basis, and space is limited. Registration fee is $20 and scholarships are available. No girl will be turned away because of financial need.
All fifth grade girls residing in the West Hawai‘i School complex in public, private, or home-schooled are welcome. Sponsorship of girls by individuals or businesses will be accepted. For more information about GEMS, to sponsor a girl, or to request a registration packet, contact Cindy Armer, GEMS chairperson at cbarmer@hotmail.com or 808-896-7180. Remember GEMS registration form must be postmarked by 9-15-17. See more details on Ka'ū News Briefs from August 15, 2017.
Staggered starts begin at 7 a.m., with all races beginning and ending at the Ka‘ū Coffee Mill at 96-2696 Wood Valley Road. In addition to goodie bags, each registered participant will receive entry into a door prize drawing valued at $700.
Trail terrains vary: 5K is a family-friendly, run/walk through macadamia groves and coffee fields; 10K is a moderate run through macadamia groves and coffee fields; Half Marathon follows the 5K and 10K course, continuing to an elevation of 3,100 feet.
Registration fees until Sept. 11: 5K/$35, 10K/$45, and HM/$55. From Sept. 11 to Sept. 21, later registration fees: 5K/$55, 10K/$65, and HM/$75.
Register at webscorer.com. until Thursday, September 21, at midnight. Race day registration ends at 6:30 a.m. For more details about the event visit okaukakou.org.
O Ka'ū Kākou stated that all proceeds, beyond the cost of the race, remain in Ka‘ū to support service projects for keiki and kupuna, schools, community groups, and organizations who look to ‘OKK for assistance.
O Ka'ū Kākou stated that all proceeds, beyond the cost of the race, remain in Ka‘ū to support service projects for keiki and kupuna, schools, community groups, and organizations who look to ‘OKK for assistance.
SENIOR I.D.'s for people aged 60 and older will be issued on tomorrow, Sept. 11, at Pāhala Senior Housing Center, from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. and at Nā‘ālehu Community Center from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. For more information, call 928-3100.
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| Pick up the September edition of The Ka'ū Calendar delivered free to 5,500 mailboxes throughout Ka'ū, from Miloli`i through Volcano. Also available on stands throughout the district. See it online at kaucalendar.com |
REGISTER KEIKI GRADES K-8 FOR ART CLASSES IN PĀHALA.
Tree of Life Thumbprint Art: register until Sept. 12. The art class will take place at Pāhala Community Center on Wednesday, Sept. 13, from 3p.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call 928-3102.
Tissue Art: register Sept. 11 until Sept. 19. The art class will take place at Pāhala Community Center on Wednesday, Sept. 20, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. For more, call 928-3102.
SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY LEGAL SERVICES will be available at Ocean View Community Center on Thursday, Sept. 14, from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. For more details, call 939-7033.
RED CROSS VOLUNTEERS MEET THURSDAY, Sept. 14, at 7 p.m., in the HOVE Road maintenance Corp. office. The meeting is meant for volunteers and those interested in becoming volunteers. For more, call Hannah Uribes at 929-9953.
REGISTER 5TH GRADE GIRLS FOR GEMS BY SEPT. 15. Ka‘ū fifth grade girls are invited to start registering for GEMS, Girls Exploring Math and Science. The annual all day event has been set for the Crown Marriot King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel for Nov. 9.
Registration is on a first come, first served basis, and space is limited. Registration fee is $20 and scholarships are available. No girl will be turned away because of financial need.
All fifth grade girls residing in the West Hawai‘i School complex in public, private, or home-schooled are welcome. Sponsorship of girls by individuals or businesses will be accepted. For more information about GEMS, to sponsor a girl, or to request a registration packet, contact Cindy Armer, GEMS chairperson at cbarmer@hotmail.com or 808-896-7180. Remember GEMS registration form must be postmarked by 9-15-17. See more details on Ka'ū News Briefs from August 15, 2017.
