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| Pacific Aviation Museum Pearl Harbor staff, as seen in a Big Island School, brought the thrill of flight to inspire science, technology, engineering and math at Pāhala Elementary School last week. See story below. Photo from Pacific Aviation Museum Pearl Harbor |
GO FOR BROKE, AN ORIGINS STORY, was prescreened on Monday at the U.S. Capitol. Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard hosted an event entitled The 75th Anniversary of the Japanese American Incarceration during WWII. It featured a panel discussion, ‘ukulele performance by famed musician Jake Shimabukuro who composed for the film, and a special advance screening. Gabbard was joined by California Congressman Mark Takano; S. Floyd Mori, President and CEO of the Asian Pacific American Institute for Congressional Studies; and Stacey Hayashi, Historian of Japanese American Incarceration - who is also the Executive Producer of the film.
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| Ka‘ū Go for Broke heroes, Iwao Yonemitsu and the late Tokuichi Nakano. Photo by Julia Neal |
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| Japanese enjoyed local life in 1941 until World War II began. Image from Go For Broke |
The film follows the story of a group of University of Hawaiʻi ROTC students, including the late Sen. Daniel Inouye, and their families, in days leading up to and following the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor. It shines a light on the distrust, prejudice and discrimination against Americans of Japanese ancestry whose loved ones were thrown in internment camps, and the story of young men who, in the face of this adversity, volunteered to serve in the U.S. Army. They formed the historic Varsity Victory Volunteers, and eventually the Nisei-only 100th/442nd Infantry Regiment—the most highly decorated unit in Army history. Some of who were from Ka‘ū.
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| A young Japanese boy running through a sugar field. Image from Go for Broke |
During Monday's event in Washington, D.C., Congresswoman Gabbard said: “Despite facing ugly and persistent prejudice and discrimination after the attacks on Pearl Harbor, the Nisei-only 442nd volunteered to serve under the American flag – carrying out innumerable acts of heroism and valor and becoming the most highly decorated unit in Army history. The Go for Broke spirit and the unwavering loyalty for America carried the 442nd through the war and onto a lifetime of public service. As we look around our country and the world today, we continue to see the same divisiveness and prejudice that targeted Americans of Japanese ancestry in World War II. We must continue to be inspired by the Aloha spirit and confront hatred and bigotry with courage, love, and respect.”
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| A young Japanese girl at home in a sugar camp house. Image from Go for Broke |
Congressman Takano said, “The 442nd Regimental Combat Team, in which three of my great uncles served, was comprised entirely of Japanese American soldiers who families were unjustly designated as 'enemy aliens' and, in many cases, held in remote incarceration camps across the country. In the face of racism and mass incarceration, this all-Japanese American force—the most decorated military unit in American history for its size—was crucial to the Allied victory in Europe, often called upon to undertake seemingly impossible missions on the front lines. Today, as we reflect on the 75th anniversary of the World War II incarceration of Japanese Americans, I am proud to honor the brave soldiers of the 442nd, including my own family members, who were willing to die for an America that did not fully recognize them as Americans.”
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| Men in hats take away a Japanese parent from the family. Image from Go for Broke |
Stacey Hayashi, Executive Producer of Go For Broke, An Origins Story, said, “It's critical for folks in our nation’s capitol to see it, especially today, the 73rd anniversary the rescue of the 'Lost Battalion' of Texas in the Vosges Mountains of France, by the Japanese Americans of the 100th Battalion, 442nd Regimental Combat Team. Especially coming on the heels of a racist 'joke' from the Houston Astros' first baseman and condoned by the MLB Commissioner, during a World Series game, recent events around the country have shown we need to appreciate our diversity instead of fear it.
She said: "The 100th/442nd RCT proved this with their blood on the battlefields of Italy and France over 70 years ago—all the while being distrusted by their own government and fellow
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| The Go for Broke production team presented an advance showing of the film Monday at the Capitol with Rep. Tulsi Gabbard. |
Floyd Mori, President and CEO of the Asian Pacific American Institute for Congressional Studies, said, “Go For Broke helps us to understand a chaotic time in our history, when patriotism overcame the negativeness of bigotry. It is a very important lesson taught in the movie that people of color always being suspect is a false notion that fosters racism and heartache - Japanese American incarceration is just one example.”
Jake Shimabukuro also weighed in: “As a Japanese American living in this country, I realize that I have a much better life because of the sacrifices that they made.”
See the Go for Broke trailer. The film premiers at the International Film Festival in November.
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AVIATION CAME TO PĀHALA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL last week, courtesy of Pacific Aviation Museum Pearl Harbor’s free STEM program. Called the Barnstorming Tour, it offered sixth graders in Pāhala and Hilo a look into the science behind aviation. The term “barnstorming” refers to a style of stunt piloting that was performed in the 1920’s to showcase pilots’ skills and the sturdiness of the planes they flew.
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| The excitement of airplanes and flight are used as an inspiration by pacific Aviation Museum's Barnstorming Program. Photo from Pacific Aviation Museum Pearl Harbor |
Costs incurred to bring the Barnstorming Tour and equipment to Hawai‘i Island was underwritten by a $5,000 grant from Boeing.
Schools interested in having the Museum bring the free Barnstorming Tour to their classrooms should contact nick.kann@pacificaviationmuseum.org or call 808-441-1001.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter.
At approximately 10 a.m. on Sunday, Oct. 29, the park received a report about a female resident missing since Friday. Family traced her phone to the park, and park rangers located her vehicle at the Steam Vents parking area. Rangers began to search for her by ground and air. At around 11:30 a.m., the woman's body was located by personnel aboard a County of Hawai‘i helicopter about 250 feet below the caldera rim, and removed.
Her name is being withheld pending notification of family. An investigation is underway.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter.
DRUNK DRIVING IN HAWAI‘I VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK can result in arrest by federal law enforcement. A 46-year-old woman from Mountain View was arrested Friday night for driving under the influence of alcohol in HVNP and refusing to provide a breath sample. Her name is being withheld during the preliminary investigation.
National Park Service rangers conducted patrols over the weekend to detect and deter DUI behavior and other vehicle safety issues. Rangers have made three DUI-related arrests in 2017, and there has been one confirmed fatality due to drunk driving this year.
“Park officials are very concerned about the safety of people utilizing the park,” said Chief Ranger John Broward. “Our rangers are proactive in preventing drinking and driving and will continue to conduct road safety checkpoints and increase patrols to deter DUI and other vehicle-related safety incidents,” he said.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter.
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| Pick up the October 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 now at kaucalendar.com |
NĀ‘ĀLEHU PUBLIC LIBRARY HOSTS A FALL COSTUME PIZZA PARTY on Halloween Day, Tuesday, Oct. 31, starting at 3 p.m.
The annual Fall Costume Party features pizza, food and prizes. "Come in costume for an extra chance to win a prize," says the flyer. The prize drawing will take place at 4 p.m.
The event is free and open to all, though young children should be accompanied by a parent or adult caregiver.
For more details, call 939-2442.
KA‘Ū FOOD PANTRY gives food to those in need on Tuesday, Oct. 31, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at St. Jude’s Episcopal Church in Ocean View.
OPEN MIC NIGHT AT KĪLAUEA MILITARY'S CAMP'S LAVA LOUNGE in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park is Wednesday, Nov. 1, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Call 967-8365 after 4 p.m. to sign up. The event is open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply.
NATURE WORKS EVERYWHERE GRANT APPLICATION DEADLINE is Friday, Nov. 3. Applications are open for public/charter schools to build or maintain a Nature Works Everywhere school garden, greenspace or green infrastructure project. For more, visit NatureWorksEverywhere.org/#grants.
See Ka‘ū News Briefs from Thursday, Sept. 14.
A THREE-DAY WORKSHOP, MANDALA MOSAIC, teaches basic glass cutting techniques as well as specialized pattern-cutting skills with Volcano Art Center guest artist Mark Brody. The program takes place Friday, Nov. 3, through Sunday, Nov. 5, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Volcano Art Center in Volcano Village.
Class limited to 10 people, 15 years +. $225/$200 VAC members, plus $25 material fee. All students receive free $25 valued substrate at workshops end. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222
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VOLUNTEERS ARE NEEDED TO HELP REMOVE INVASIVE, NON-NATIVE PLANTS that prevent native plans from growing in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. This Stewardship at the Summit event is Friday, Nov. 3, at 8:45 a.m.
To join the effort, meet project leaders Paul and Jane Field at Kīlauea Visitor Center. Volunteers should wear sturdy hiking shoes and long pants and bring a hat, rain-gear, day pack, snacks and water. Gloves and tools will be provided. No advance registration is required, and there is no cost to participate, but park entrance fees apply. Visit the park website for additional planning details:nps.gov/havo/planyourvisit/summit_stewardship.htm. More events are planned for Nov. 11 (fee-free day), 18 and 25.
A FUNDRAISER FOR KĪLAUEA DRAMA & ENTERTAINMENT NETWORK, which is in production for A Gilbert & Sullivan Christmas Carol will be at Amalfatano's Italian Restaurant in Waiakea Villas in Hilo on Friday, Nov. 3, starting at 6 p.m. Featured menu includes pasta dish, eggplant parmesan, lasagna, pizza, and an Italian salad, with ice tea included for $20. Diners are welcome to bring a bottle of wine or other beverages.
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BIRTH OF KAHUKU, a guided easy-to-moderate hike, traverses the vast 1868 lava flow, with volcanic features and formations. Hikers explore the rich geologic history of Kahuku. It's free on Saturday, Nov. 4, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., at Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park.
FREE HEPATITIS C TESTING IS AVAILABLE on Sunday, Nov. 5, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 a.m., at Volcano Farmers Market on Wright Rd in Volcano. Volcano Community Association, the organization hosting the event, says that one in 30 baby boomers have Hep. C and most don’t event know it. For more details visit Ka‘ū News Briefs from Thursday, Oct. 12, or email vcainfo@yahoo.com.
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HAM RADIO OPERATORS HOST A POTLUCK PICNIC Sunday, Nov. 5, at Manukā Park. All American Radio Emergency Service members, anyone interested in learning how to operate a ham radio and families are invited to attend. For more, call Dennis Smith at 989-3028.
PU‘U O LOKUANA, a free moderately difficult 0.4-mile hike, takes visitors to the Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park to a cinder cone one Sunday, Nov. 5, from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. Learn about the volcanic and geologic formation and historic uses of the grassy cinder cone. Enjoy a breathtaking view from the top of lower Ka‘ū.
CU HAWAI‘I FEDERAL CREDIT UNION IS OFFERING EMPLOYMENT as a Member Service Representative in Nā‘ālehu. CU Hawai‘i seeks energetic individuals for full time positions who enjoy working with people and can provide professional, courteous and efficient service to valued members.The annual Fall Costume Party features pizza, food and prizes. "Come in costume for an extra chance to win a prize," says the flyer. The prize drawing will take place at 4 p.m.
The event is free and open to all, though young children should be accompanied by a parent or adult caregiver.
For more details, call 939-2442.
KA‘Ū FOOD PANTRY gives food to those in need on Tuesday, Oct. 31, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at St. Jude’s Episcopal Church in Ocean View.
OPEN MIC NIGHT AT KĪLAUEA MILITARY'S CAMP'S LAVA LOUNGE in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park is Wednesday, Nov. 1, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Call 967-8365 after 4 p.m. to sign up. The event is open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply.
See kilaueamilitarycamp.com for more.
HAWAI‘I COUNTY COUNCIL MEETS WEDNESDAY, NOV. 1, and Thursday, Nov. 2. Participate via videoconferencing at Nā‘ālehu State Office Building. Agendas at hawaiicounty.gov.
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HULA VOICES, moderated by Desiree Moana Cruz, features Kumu hula Iwalani Kalmia of Hula Hālau O Kou Lima Nani E. The kumu presents her hula experiences, Thursday, Nov. 2, from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Volcano Art Center Gallery in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Free; park entrance fees apply. For more, visit volcanoartcenter.org.
THE NEXT OCEAN VIEW BLOCK WATCH MEETING will be Thursday, Nov. 2, at 6 p.m. at Ocean View Community Center. All are invited and the organization will entertain nominations and elect officers. For more, call 939-7033.
HAWAI‘I COUNTY COUNCIL MEETS WEDNESDAY, NOV. 1, and Thursday, Nov. 2. Participate via videoconferencing at Nā‘ālehu State Office Building. Agendas at hawaiicounty.gov.
THE NEXT OCEAN VIEW BLOCK WATCH MEETING will be Thursday, Nov. 2, at 6 p.m. at Ocean View Community Center. All are invited and the organization will entertain nominations and elect officers. For more, call 939-7033.
NATURE WORKS EVERYWHERE GRANT APPLICATION DEADLINE is Friday, Nov. 3. Applications are open for public/charter schools to build or maintain a Nature Works Everywhere school garden, greenspace or green infrastructure project. For more, visit NatureWorksEverywhere.org/#grants.
See Ka‘ū News Briefs from Thursday, Sept. 14.
A THREE-DAY WORKSHOP, MANDALA MOSAIC, teaches basic glass cutting techniques as well as specialized pattern-cutting skills with Volcano Art Center guest artist Mark Brody. The program takes place Friday, Nov. 3, through Sunday, Nov. 5, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Volcano Art Center in Volcano Village.
Class limited to 10 people, 15 years +. $225/$200 VAC members, plus $25 material fee. All students receive free $25 valued substrate at workshops end. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222
VOLUNTEERS ARE NEEDED TO HELP REMOVE INVASIVE, NON-NATIVE PLANTS that prevent native plans from growing in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. This Stewardship at the Summit event is Friday, Nov. 3, at 8:45 a.m.To join the effort, meet project leaders Paul and Jane Field at Kīlauea Visitor Center. Volunteers should wear sturdy hiking shoes and long pants and bring a hat, rain-gear, day pack, snacks and water. Gloves and tools will be provided. No advance registration is required, and there is no cost to participate, but park entrance fees apply. Visit the park website for additional planning details:nps.gov/havo/planyourvisit/summit_stewardship.htm. More events are planned for Nov. 11 (fee-free day), 18 and 25.
A FUNDRAISER FOR KĪLAUEA DRAMA & ENTERTAINMENT NETWORK, which is in production for A Gilbert & Sullivan Christmas Carol will be at Amalfatano's Italian Restaurant in Waiakea Villas in Hilo on Friday, Nov. 3, starting at 6 p.m. Featured menu includes pasta dish, eggplant parmesan, lasagna, pizza, and an Italian salad, with ice tea included for $20. Diners are welcome to bring a bottle of wine or other beverages.
Reservations for the fundraiser are not necessary, but suggested. Call KDEN at 982-7344 or email kden73@aol.com to make a reservation, or for more information on A Gilbert & Sullivan Christmas Carol. See Ka‘ū News Briefs from Thursday, Oct. 26.
A HEALTH FAIR will take place at Discovery Harbour Community Center on Saturday, Nov. 4, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. along with exercise demonstration - Yoga, hula, pilates, Tai Chi, and Qigong - the fair will also offer healthy cooking demonstrations, flu shots, massages and health presentations from various organizations. Unsafe at Any Meal will be presented by author Dr. Renee Dufault. For more, visit discoveryharbor.net or call 929-9576. See Ka‘ū News Briefs from Sunday, Oct. 1.
A HOLIDAY AFFAIR is set for Saturday, Nov. 4, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Ocean View Community Center. The art sale also offers maps to Ka‘ū galleries and workshops for attendees to continue their Ka‘ū art exploration. Gift wrapping and/or boxing for easy mailing will be available for items sold. To reserve a booth or space call Mars Cavers at 938-9760 or email starmars@mac.com. For more about the event, see Ka‘ū News Briefs from Sunday, Oct. 22.
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JOIN ACCLAIMED RECORDING ARTISTS, including Raeatea Helm, and halau hula from Hawai‘i, Mexico, Japan and West Virginia at Ho‘okupu Hula No Ka‘ū Cultural Festival this Saturday, Nov. 4, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., at Pāhala Community Center. It is free and includes not only Hawaiian entertainment, but also vendor booths offering crafts, food, games and information. For more details see Ka‘ū News Briefs published Wednesday, Oct. 18, or contact Kumu Debbie Ryder at 649-9334.
A GILLIGAN'S NIGHT to raise funds for Ka‘ū Learning Academy is Saturday, Nov. 4, from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., at the school, former site of Gilligan's Restaurant. This is the first in a series of charter school fundraisers with music and food.
JOIN ACCLAIMED RECORDING ARTISTS, including Raeatea Helm, and halau hula from Hawai‘i, Mexico, Japan and West Virginia at Ho‘okupu Hula No Ka‘ū Cultural Festival this Saturday, Nov. 4, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., at Pāhala Community Center. It is free and includes not only Hawaiian entertainment, but also vendor booths offering crafts, food, games and information. For more details see Ka‘ū News Briefs published Wednesday, Oct. 18, or contact Kumu Debbie Ryder at 649-9334.A GILLIGAN'S NIGHT to raise funds for Ka‘ū Learning Academy is Saturday, Nov. 4, from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., at the school, former site of Gilligan's Restaurant. This is the first in a series of charter school fundraisers with music and food.
Foggy will play from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. and Solomon and Tiger will play from 6 p.m to 9 p.m. Menu features pizza, pasta, lasagna, salads, desserts and chicken parmesan.
See Ka‘ū News Briefs from Monday, Oct. 23.
See Ka‘ū News Briefs from Monday, Oct. 23.
FREE HEPATITIS C TESTING IS AVAILABLE on Sunday, Nov. 5, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 a.m., at Volcano Farmers Market on Wright Rd in Volcano. Volcano Community Association, the organization hosting the event, says that one in 30 baby boomers have Hep. C and most don’t event know it. For more details visit Ka‘ū News Briefs from Thursday, Oct. 12, or email vcainfo@yahoo.com.
PU‘U O LOKUANA, a free moderately difficult 0.4-mile hike, takes visitors to the Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park to a cinder cone one Sunday, Nov. 5, from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. Learn about the volcanic and geologic formation and historic uses of the grassy cinder cone. Enjoy a breathtaking view from the top of lower Ka‘ū.
The ideal candidate must be service oriented and possess good communication and computer skills. Cash handling and customer service experience is preferred. Must be able to work Saturdays. CU Hawai‘i offers medical, drug, dental, vision and retirement benefits.
Email, mail or fax application to: Attn: Human Resources, 476 Hinano Street Hilo, HI 96720, Fax: (808) 935-7793. Applications can be found online at cuhawaii.com/careers.html.
