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| On the fence between high school and adult life, Kaʻū 2020 graduates are lined up, unmasked, in Congrats Grad photos at Pāhala Community Center on Friday, graduation day See their speeches below. Photo by Julia Neal |
RESTAURANTS, CHURCHES, HAIR SALONS, and other personal services will be able to reopen on June 1. Mayor Harry Kim made the announcement today after Gov. David Ige gave the approvals.
Approved restaurants will include food courts, but not dedicated bars and nightclubs. Social distancing will be required, reducing the number of dining tables to expand the spaces between them. In-dining service must be in accordance with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Interim Guidance for Restaurants and Bars, National Restaurant Association Guidelines, and any updated CDC guidance. The layout and design of restaurants must be compliant before reopening, said the Mayor.
Salons and barbershops must follow Rules Relating to Safety Guidelines for Barbers and Beauty Operators.
Also allowed will be one-on-one services including, but not limited to, tutoring, music lessons, massage, yoga, Pilates, and personal training. They can reopen with distancing and other health measures.
Also allowed will be one-on-one services including, but not limited to, tutoring, music lessons, massage, yoga, Pilates, and personal training. They can reopen with distancing and other health measures.
Anyone reopening can request no-cost assistance to provide a safe and healthy business for employees and customers, by contacting the county's COVID Task Force on Education and Prevention at 935-0031.
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STUDENT SPEAKERS at Friday's Kaʻū High School graduation focused far beyond the challenges of the COVID-19 worldwide pandemic that cut their on-campus time short at the end of the year. Some talked about another major life event. Most of the 42 seniors were born in the year of 9/11 only to graduate in the year of COVID-19. They rolled to the venue to receive their diplomas, a photo shoot, mahalos from the school staff and Mayor Harry Kim, and a gift basket from community groups Uhane Pohaku Na Moku O Hawaiʻi and ʻO Kaʻū Kākou.
MALIAH ABABA, CO-VALEDICTORIAN FOR KAʻŪ HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2020 gave the following remarks: "First off, I would like to thank my parents, family, and friends for always pushing me to the best of my ability and for supporting me in everything I do. I wouldn't be the person I am today if it wasn't for you. I'd also like to thank all my teachers and mentors for helping me grow, not only as a better scholar, but as a better person.
"It was heartbreaking to find out that we wouldn't be able to go to our last prom together or even enjoy our last memories walking down the halls one last time. We lost so many significant memories that can never be replaced. Many of us weren't able to finish off our sports seasons or even experience going to prom, but most of all, we all lost the opportunity to proudly walk across the stage and accept our high school diploma in front of our families and friends.
"Throughout the hardship of this year, our community, family, and friends continued to support us through this tough time. They continuously show us how proud they are of how far we've all come and how much more we can achieve. The community continues to make a big effort to celebrate all of our accomplishments, despite the obstacles we're facing.
"Life put us through so many obstacles; from pushing through the 9/11 after-effects when we were born to graduating during a worldwide pandemic. From the start, we were given challenges but we faced it and will only become stronger. These obstacles we face prepare us for the future and it makes us stronger for what's to come. This is the first obstacle we're facing as adults, and if we can get through this, then we can get through much more throughout life. A lot was taken away from us this year, but we also are learning an important lesson that through tough times, positive and better things are to come.
"Despite all the challenges we faced and continue to face, we can conquer anything we put our minds to. We fought through all the obstacles that were thrown at us and we still continue to make the best of every situation we're given.
"I want you all to remember: Take pride in how far you have come and have faith in how far you can go."
KRYSTAL JANE VELASCO, CO-VALEDICTORIAN FOR KAʻŪ HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2020, gave the following remarks on a graduation television show Friday: "First of all, I would like to thank God for wisdom and guidance. On behalf of the class 2020, I would like to thank the families of our class for bringing us into this world, raising us, supporting us, and helping us achieve this significant milestone in our lives.
"I would also like to thank the faculty and staff of Kaʻū High School for the education, influence, and guidance they have provided along the way. You all have helped and shaped us into who we are today.
"To the class of 2020, congratulations! Finally, our momentous time of the year has arrived! We did it! My fellow graduates, I may not have known you for a long time but you all showed me such warmth and love. I am glad that I am part of this amazing class. You are all creative and smart in many different ways, so I want you to trust in and never doubt yourselves. I am counting on seeing you conquer life in your unique way.
"The reality is now in front of us. As we move forward in our lives and wherever the wind takes us, always remember to do so with an open mind and a full heart. The most wonderful lesson I learned throughout high school is that I am the captain of my ship. I am the decision-maker of which way I should go.
"Planning what to do after high school has been one of the hardest tasks for me, and maybe to all of my fellow classmates? Should I go to college, military, or should I just go straight and find a job? I asked myself this question, 'What do I want to do in the future, what do I want for myself?' I asked for advice from my parents, my brother, cousins, and my friends. They all told me the same thing, and that is to follow my dreams and what my heart tells me to do. I decided I want to study nursing in college. Today, I am now ready, more confident, and motivated to conquer the next chapter of my life because I am going to pursue the career that I love.
"So, I wanted to say to you all that, in life, we need to be conscious and responsible for our actions. Learn to trust yourself and your decisions. Follow your heart because only you can choose which way to go. I know that each of us will go beyond the stars in whatever we do. Become the person you have always wanted to become, and work for what you really want."
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our Fresh Food on The Kaʻū Calendar and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.
MARILOU MAE MANANTAN, CLASS PRESIDENT FOR KAʻŪ HIGH CLASS OF 2020, gave the following remarks: "It is my pleasure to welcome friends, family, and faculty to our virtual graduation ceremony. First off, I'd like to thank my friends and family for supporting me and sculpting me into the amazing woman that I am today. I would also like to give a special shoutout to my best friend, coaches, and my SP Boys for creating one of the most memorable chapters in my life.
"We made it! Although COVID-19 impacted us in a way we never imagined, we made it. Some people may say that we were built for this because of how we were born in the same year as 9/11. Other people may say 'no cap & no gown' but here I stand before you in my cap and gown! This may have been a tough year but it's also a memorable one, one that's unforgettable. Our school year got cut short but don't let it put a pause on your greatness.
"I will always miss high school. I will always miss the morning rides to school with my best friend. I will always miss watching and competing in lunchtime activities to see who's class is the best. I will always miss hanging out with my friends in Ms. Myashiro's class, I will always miss the feeling of competing in sports. I will always miss our game of senior tag that we never got to finish due to COVID. I will always miss the feeling of being a senior at Kaʻū High and Pāhala Elementary School.
"From all our firsts, here's to our last. Our last first day of school, our last game, our last assembly, our last dance, our last ride, our last time being a student. Today is when our journey begins. Today is our last day being all together; after this, we're going to part ways and take our journeys on different roads. We may not be graduating in a way that we wanted to and that's okay, it's not needed to validate our high school accomplishments. Here's to the class of 2020: miles may separate us but memories will always bind us. Mahalo."
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HOʻOKUPU IN LAUHALA BASKETS came from community groups Uhane Pohaku Na Moku O Hawaiʻi and ʻO Kaʻū Kākou at Friday's graduation from Kaʻū High School. Kumu Hula Debbie Ryder, who works on cultural programs and presentations at the school, was joined by Kawehi Ryder to gather and prepare the food, including luʻau pork and fresh cabbage, plus steaks from Wayne Kawachi and ʻO Kaʻū Kākou.
Desmond Dacalio assisted with handing out the gift baskets to
graduates as they paraded by, after
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receiving diplomas and a wave from Mayor Harry Kim.
The tag on the lauhala gift basket says, "A Hoʻokupu for You!"
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our Fresh Food on The Kaʻū Calendar and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.
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PUNALUʻU BAKE SHOP REOPENED its retail and food services to the public, this week. Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
daily.
Food is available to order by phone all day, to include malasadas, Portuguese and other sweetbreads, cookies, soups, plate lunches, and hot and cold sandwiches, as well as beverages.
Retail items include Kaʻū Coffees and many local packaged foods, keepsakes, and other collectible and gift items.
Call ahead to 929-7343, or walk up and order. The store is limited to six persons at a time, wearing masks. Dining on site is off-limits until further notice.
ANOTHER CALL FOR PUBLIC ASSISTANCE in the search for Jake Branch is requested by Hawaiʻi county police. Branch, a 36-year-old male who frequents Kaʻū, Kohala, and Kona Districts. He is wanted on multiple outstanding Criminal Contempt Bench Warrants, BOLO's for Resist Order to Stop, Reckless Driving, and Leaving the Scene of an Accident Involving Damage to a Vehicle.
Branch was most recently contacted by police on April 11, while operating a stolen white Toyota Tacoma Pickup inNorth Kohala . The vehicle was reported stolen from the Puna District on April 1. The vehicle evaded officers but was later located in the South Kohala District, where officers once again attempted to contact Branch. The vehicle again fled and was located a short time later, abandoned in South Kohala . Branch is also wanted for questioning related to a Burglary reported in North Kohala on April 11.
Branch is described as being 6-feet 3-inches, approximately 285 pounds, with long brown hair. Branch is known to operate a black Yamaha FJ 1300cc motorcycle with unknown plates.
Anyone with information on his whereabouts is encouraged to contact the police non-emergency number, (808) 935-3311 or Detective Kayla Makino-Kahuli of the Area II Criminal Investigations Section at (808) 326-4646 ext. 277.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our Fresh Food on The Kaʻū Calendar and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.
ONLINE WORSHIP SERVICE FOR TRINITY SUNDAY are held by St. Jude's Episcopal Church at stjudeshawaii.org/worship tomorrow, Sunday, May 24th. Cindy Cutts says, "Special thanks to Rev. Constance, Dan and Steve."
Daily, weekly, and monthly recurring Kaʻū and Volcano Events, Meetings, Entertainment, Exercise, Meditation, and more are listed at kaucalendar.com. However, all non-essential activities are canceled through the end of May.
MOST EVENTS ARE CANCELLED to stem the spread of the novel coronavirus. The state is under a stay-at-home order, with l4 days of quarantine required for anyone coming into the state. Interisland travel is restricted. Those in Hawaiʻi should stay at home unless needing to obtain food or medical care.
Old Volcano Highway is offering a special takeout menu for Memorial Day Weekend, this Saturday and Sunday, May 23 and 24, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The regular menu is also available. Call ahead to order, 985-8979. See cafeono.net for menu.
Free COVID-19 Screenings are at Bay Clinic during business hours, with appointment. Call 333-3600.
A wide selection of fresh vegetables and fruits, prepared take away foods, assorted added value foods, breads and baked goods, honey, cheese, grass-fed beef, fish, vegetable plants, masks, handmade soaps, coffee, and more are offered on various days. Contact Sue Barnett, OKK Market Manager, at 808-345-9374, for more and to apply to vend.
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Volcano Farmers Market at Cooper Center on Wright Road, off of Old Volcano Highway, is open on Sundays from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m., with much local produce, island beef, and prepared foods. Call 808-967-7800.
Free Breakfast and Lunch for Anyone Eighteen and Under is available at Kaʻū High & Pāhala Elementary and at Nāʻālehu Elementary weekdays through May. Each youth must be present to receive a meal. Service is drive-up or walk-up, and social distancing rules (at least six feet away) are observed. Breakfast is served from 7:30 a.m. to 8 a.m., lunch from 11:30 a.m. to noon. Food is being delivered to Ocean View.
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The Food Basket's ʻOhana Food Drop is available once a month at four Kaʻū and Volcano locations. People can receive a multi-day supply of shelf-stable and fresh food, depending on supply. Call The Food Basket at 933-6030 for Pāhala and Volcano or at 322-1418 for Nāʻālehu or Ocean View. Food can be picked up from 10 a.m. until pau – supplies run out – at:
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See kuaokala.org to apply and to learn more about the school. Call 808-981-5866 or 808-825-8811, or email info@kuaokala.org for more.
Free Book Exchanges at the laundromats in Ocean View and Nāʻālehu are provided by Friends of the Kaʻū Libraries. Everyone is invited to take books they want to read. They may keep the books, pass them on to other readers, or return them to the Book Exchange to make them available to others in the community. The selection of books is replenished weekly at both sites.
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Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium Closed for Renovation through June 30. The Park is closed until further notice due to COVID-19 spread mitigation. A popular seven-and-a-half minute 2018 eruption video will be shown on a television in the exhibits area, once the Park and center reopen, and is available online for free download.
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To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our Fresh Food on The Kaʻū Calendar and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.
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| The stewards of Kaʻū High School groomed the grounds on Friday ahead of the graduation drive-through ceremony. The sign for Class of 2020 is made with white, translucent cups, pushed into the spaces of the chain-link fence. Photo by Julia Neal |
MALIAH ABABA, CO-VALEDICTORIAN FOR KAʻŪ HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2020 gave the following remarks: "First off, I would like to thank my parents, family, and friends for always pushing me to the best of my ability and for supporting me in everything I do. I wouldn't be the person I am today if it wasn't for you. I'd also like to thank all my teachers and mentors for helping me grow, not only as a better scholar, but as a better person.
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| Maliah Ababa is Co-Valedictorian of the Kaʻū High School Class of 2020. She rolls to Kaʻū District Gym to receive her diploma. Her speech was televised through a virtual half-hour graduation presentation on Nā Leo TV. Photo by Julia Neal |
"And, to my Class of 2020, although we didn't get to finish the year together, I'm so thankful to have you all as my classmates. You are some of the most unique, hilarious, and amazing people I've ever met. We made so many unforgettable memories, from winning Homecoming Week to running around the halls playing Senior Tag. Even though our year was cut short, it was great because of you all.
"This year was a struggle for the Class of 2020. Unfortunately, due to COVID-19, our year was cut short unexpectedly. For most of us, it hasn't even dawned that we just graduated high school and are now adults."It was heartbreaking to find out that we wouldn't be able to go to our last prom together or even enjoy our last memories walking down the halls one last time. We lost so many significant memories that can never be replaced. Many of us weren't able to finish off our sports seasons or even experience going to prom, but most of all, we all lost the opportunity to proudly walk across the stage and accept our high school diploma in front of our families and friends.
"Throughout the hardship of this year, our community, family, and friends continued to support us through this tough time. They continuously show us how proud they are of how far we've all come and how much more we can achieve. The community continues to make a big effort to celebrate all of our accomplishments, despite the obstacles we're facing.
"Life put us through so many obstacles; from pushing through the 9/11 after-effects when we were born to graduating during a worldwide pandemic. From the start, we were given challenges but we faced it and will only become stronger. These obstacles we face prepare us for the future and it makes us stronger for what's to come. This is the first obstacle we're facing as adults, and if we can get through this, then we can get through much more throughout life. A lot was taken away from us this year, but we also are learning an important lesson that through tough times, positive and better things are to come.
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| Teachers and staff on the left waived to the graduates, with diplomas, photos, and gifts on the right. Photo by Julia Neal |
"I want you all to remember: Take pride in how far you have come and have faith in how far you can go."
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our Fresh Food on The Kaʻū Calendar and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.
KRYSTAL JANE VELASCO, CO-VALEDICTORIAN FOR KAʻŪ HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2020, gave the following remarks on a graduation television show Friday: "First of all, I would like to thank God for wisdom and guidance. On behalf of the class 2020, I would like to thank the families of our class for bringing us into this world, raising us, supporting us, and helping us achieve this significant milestone in our lives.
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| Krystal Jane Velasco, Co-Valedictorian for Kaʻū High School, her photo displayed on a fence line as graduations was a virtual, televised presentation paired with a drive-through for diplomas, photo, and a lauhala community gift basket. Photo by Julia Neal |
"To the class of 2020, congratulations! Finally, our momentous time of the year has arrived! We did it! My fellow graduates, I may not have known you for a long time but you all showed me such warmth and love. I am glad that I am part of this amazing class. You are all creative and smart in many different ways, so I want you to trust in and never doubt yourselves. I am counting on seeing you conquer life in your unique way.
"The reality is now in front of us. As we move forward in our lives and wherever the wind takes us, always remember to do so with an open mind and a full heart. The most wonderful lesson I learned throughout high school is that I am the captain of my ship. I am the decision-maker of which way I should go.
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| Students presented their signs for access to the graduation venue. Photo by Julia Neal |
"So, I wanted to say to you all that, in life, we need to be conscious and responsible for our actions. Learn to trust yourself and your decisions. Follow your heart because only you can choose which way to go. I know that each of us will go beyond the stars in whatever we do. Become the person you have always wanted to become, and work for what you really want."
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our Fresh Food on The Kaʻū Calendar and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.
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Marilou Mae Manantan, President for Kaʻū High Class of 2020, mentioned that most of her classmates were born in the year of 9/11 only to push through the COVD-19 pandemic during their high school grad year. Photo by Julia Neal |
"We made it! Although COVID-19 impacted us in a way we never imagined, we made it. Some people may say that we were built for this because of how we were born in the same year as 9/11. Other people may say 'no cap & no gown' but here I stand before you in my cap and gown! This may have been a tough year but it's also a memorable one, one that's unforgettable. Our school year got cut short but don't let it put a pause on your greatness.
"I will always miss high school. I will always miss the morning rides to school with my best friend. I will always miss watching and competing in lunchtime activities to see who's class is the best. I will always miss hanging out with my friends in Ms. Myashiro's class, I will always miss the feeling of competing in sports. I will always miss our game of senior tag that we never got to finish due to COVID. I will always miss the feeling of being a senior at Kaʻū High and Pāhala Elementary School.
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| Unmasked faces along the way to graduation at Robert N. Herkes Gymnasium & Shelter, also known as Kaʻū District Gym, where diplomas and community gift baskets were presented to the Class of 2020. Photo by Julia Neal |
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Uhane Pohaku Na Moku O Hawaiʻi's Debbie Ryder and Desmond Dacalio distributed lauhala gift baskets with food to graduates on Friday. Photo by Julia Neal |
HOʻOKUPU IN LAUHALA BASKETS came from community groups Uhane Pohaku Na Moku O Hawaiʻi and ʻO Kaʻū Kākou at Friday's graduation from Kaʻū High School. Kumu Hula Debbie Ryder, who works on cultural programs and presentations at the school, was joined by Kawehi Ryder to gather and prepare the food, including luʻau pork and fresh cabbage, plus steaks from Wayne Kawachi and ʻO Kaʻū Kākou.
Desmond Dacalio assisted with handing out the gift baskets to
graduates as they paraded by, after
receiving diplomas and a wave from Mayor Harry Kim.The tag on the lauhala gift basket says, "A Hoʻokupu for You!"
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our Fresh Food on The Kaʻū Calendar and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.
PUNALUʻU BAKE SHOP REOPENED its retail and food services to the public, this week. Hours are daily.
Food is available to order by phone all day, to include malasadas, Portuguese and other sweetbreads, cookies, soups, plate lunches, and hot and cold sandwiches, as well as beverages.
Retail items include Kaʻū Coffees and many local packaged foods, keepsakes, and other collectible and gift items.
Call ahead to 929-7343, or walk up and order. The store is limited to six persons at a time, wearing masks. Dining on site is off-limits until further notice.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our Fresh Food on The Kaʻū Calendar and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.
THE KAHUKU UNIT OF HAWAIʻI VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK increased community access starting today by opening trails on Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Access will expand in phases.
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The view from Pu‘u Kahuku. NPS photo, Sami Steinkamp |
Popular Trails include:
Pu‘u o Lokuana Cinder Cone is a short but strenuous climb. The hike is a .4 mile (.35 km) loop with a 130-foot (40 m) elevation change. The trail along historic ranch roads leads to a hidden pasture, lava tree molds, and lava flows from 1868.
Kamakapa‘a Trail is an easy .5 mile (0.8 km) loop through grassy meadows to the top of a small cinder cone with a 40-foot (12 m) elevation change. Sweeping views from the top take in the full breadth of lower Ka‘ū.
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A large lava tree mold on the 1868 lava flow. NPS photo, Sami Steinkamp |
Palm Trail Hikeis a 2.6-mile (4.2 km) loop, where people can walk or bike through scenic pastures for "one of best panoramic views" in Kahuku, with a 310-foot (95 m) elevation change. Volcanic features include the 1868 fissure and the trail crosses the main lava channel.
Pali o Ka‘eo Trail runs 2.1 miles (3.4 km), with a 410-foot (125 m) elevation change, through woodland meadows along the top of a steep grassy slope. Vistas along the way take in the coast of Ka ‘ū from Ka Lae (South Point) to Na Pu‘u o Pele.
Pit Crater Trail is a strenuous 4.1-mile (6.7 km) with a 1,165-foot (335 m) elevation gain. The trail leads steeply up old pasture roads to the edge of a huge pit crater. Hikers must decontaminate at the ROD Quarantine Gate.
During Phase 1 of the opening, vehicles must remain below Upper Palm Trail. Park rangers will be on patrol.
Services are limited and some places, such as the Visitor Contact Station and Book Store are closed to the public.
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| The Kahuku Unit of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is opening in phases with hiking beginning today. NPS Photo by Janice Wei |
The National Park Service urges visitors to follow CDC and local guidance; park only in designated areas; pack out everything brought in; maintain 6 ft (2 m) social distance from others; stay on marked trails; be prepared for limited, or no access, to restrooms and other facilities.
Wendy Scott-Vance, of Kahuku Unit, said, "To all of you who have made hiking and exercise at Kahuku a regular part of your lives, we are looking forward to seeing you soon!"
The entrance to Kahuku Unit is in Kaʻū, between South Point Road and Ocean View's town center, about an hour's drive south of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park Park's main entrance, on Hwy 11.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our Fresh Food on The Kaʻū Calendar and our late
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our Fresh Food on The Kaʻū Calendar and our late
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| Jake Branch |
Branch was most recently contacted by police on April 11, while operating a stolen white Toyota Tacoma Pickup in
Branch is described as being 6-feet 3-inches, approximately 285 pounds, with long brown hair. Branch is known to operate a black Yamaha FJ 1300cc motorcycle with unknown plates.
Anyone with information on his whereabouts is encouraged to contact the police non-emergency number, (808) 935-3311 or Detective Kayla Makino-Kahuli of the Area II Criminal Investigations Section at (808) 326-4646 ext. 277.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our Fresh Food on The Kaʻū Calendar and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.
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No COVID-19 cases so far in the zip code areas of Volcano, Pāhala, and Ocean View. White indicates zero cases, light yellow indicates one to five cases. The 96772 area in Kaʻū has one case recorded. Map from DOH |
NO NEW COVID-19 CASES ON HAWAIʻI ISLAND and only one new in the state, reports the Department of Health. The new case is in Maui County Honolulu County Maui County
The daily message from Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense Director Talmadge Magno says, "The Island and State of Hawaiʻi are doing well in minimizing the spread and impact of this virus. During this holiday weekend when we gather and enjoy the lifestyle of Hawaiʻi please continue practicing the policies of distancing, gatherings, cleanliness, face coverings, staying at home if you are sick, and keeping yourself physically and emotionally healthy. Please be safe on this very special weekend of remembrance in honor of the men and women who died serving our great nation. This is your Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense."
In the United States , more than 1.66 million cases have been confirmed. The death toll is over 97,414.
Worldwide, more than 5.29 million have contracted COVID-19. The death toll is over 341,000.
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ONLINE WORSHIP SERVICE FOR TRINITY SUNDAY are held by St. Jude's Episcopal Church at stjudeshawaii.org/worship tomorrow, Sunday, May 24th. Cindy Cutts says, "Special thanks to Rev. Constance, Dan and Steve."
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our Fresh Food on The Kaʻū Calendar and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.
Palafox talked about the strategic importance of numerous South Pacific islands to the
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The 1840 eruption in lower Puna began on May 30 and lasted for 26 days. Nānāwale Estates is built on the lava flow from this eruption. Few eyewitness accounts exist of this eruption, which emphasized the importance of geological fieldwork to reconstruct the chronology of events that occurred. Geologic mapping indicated 1840 may have been similar to the 2018 eruption.
During the 2018 lower East Rift Zone eruption, fissure 8 reactivated for a final time on May 24 and was joined briefly on May 27 by the final fissure (#24) opening. In the evening of May 27, the main fissure 8 lava flow began its advance towards the ocean. This eruption was arguably the best-documented eruption at Kīlauea yet, with the existing geophysical network, new instruments rapidly deployed, 24/7 field presence for 6 months, use of new tools like Unoccupied Aerial Systems, and an outpouring of citizen science.Kīlauea has had a long and active history, and each eruption provides us new insights into volcanic processes and hazards. HVO will continue to make observation-based discoveries to improve delivery of warnings and hazard assessments.
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Dr. Neal Palafox explains the irony of Micronesians' fame as an ocean-going people, who wind up in poverty and poor health in Hawaiʻi. He spoke at the annual Kaʻū Rural Health Community Association meeting in Pāhala last year. Photo by Julia Neal |
Kaʻū Life: The Way We Were Last Year
Last May, the health and economic wellbeing of Micronesians and other South Pacific islanders who have moved to Hawaiʻi were the focus of the 21st annual Kaʻū Rural Health Community Association meeting at Pāhala Community Center
Keynote speaker was Neal Palafox, MD, MPH, a professor at University of Hawaiʻi John A. Burns School of Medicine's Department of Family Medicine & Community Health. He's spent decades studying and working with Pacific Islanders to improve their health and economic situation.
U.S. military after World War II, when more than a decade of nuclear bomb testing was conducted in the islands. After the nuclear testing stopped, the U.S. government promised to help with economic development, health, and education for the islanders.
The U.S. maintains large military bases in Micronesia and views them as important to the future, especially with Chinese government and companies making inroads into the Pacific. In exchange for keeping the bases, and for mitigation for the nuclear testing that made some islands uninhabitable, the U.S. allows residents of many of the islands to come to this country without a passport or visa, to live, work, and gain an education here. At first, the federal government paid for their health care, then the states chipped in as the federal government withdrew some of its support.
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Physician Richard Creagan talks about experience working with Marshallese in the Peace Corps. Photo by Julia Neal |
Some of the islanders went to places like Arkansas , where they were hired by large companies like Tyson's Foods and became factory workers. In Arkansas , Marshallese in particular have done well in terms of being lifted out of poverty, though far away from their island culture of subsistence farming and fishing.
On Hawaiʻi Island, many of the families live remotely. Ocean View is one place where Micronesians found affordable land to create housing for extended families. Some of the parents and grandparents work picking Kaʻū Coffee. The children go to school.
One problem brought up in the meeting was assimilation of the children into the American education system. With poor English skills upon arrival, they need more support through speakers of their own dialects, several attendees stated. Sometimes they are bullied and feel discrimination from other students and even teachers, Palafox said. He said that, throughout Hawaiʻi, there are many Micronesian jokes, online insults such as "Micronesian Cockroaches Go Home." People ask "How do we get them to go elsewhere?" and say, "Send these people a message," and "Stop them from coming." These islanders are often blamed for being the biggest cause of homelessness in Hawaiʻi, Palafox said.
He noted that one difference between Micronesians here and other immigrants is that most other immigrants have to apply for a visa and are sponsored by families already here. They often arrive with a job waiting for them. With the Pacific Islanders who have free entry to the U.S. , "we are getting the entire demographic," the middle class and the poor, the skilled and unskilled, said Palafox, "with their need for more education, employment training, health care, and assistance with assimilation."
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Dr. Neal Palafox and Marshallese leader from Ocean View, Johnathan Jackson. Photo by Julia Neal |
Palafox introduced the idea of Cultural Safety with mediating variables to help the islanders. Among them are self-determination, social and restorative justice, equity, negotiated partnership, transparency, reciprocity, accountability, and resilience.
Johnathan Jackson, one of the leaders of the Marshallese in Ocean View, talked about the attempt to maintain some of the traditional culture while living here. The Micronesians, for example, are well regarded as master navigators in the South Pacific. It is ironic that they would have a hard time being accepted here, said Jackson .
Palafax said that health statistics are bleak among the islanders before and after they come here. He said they are affected by the worst of both worlds: cholera, dengue fever, and tuberculosis in their less-developed tropical home islands, and the poor diet of modern society with more diabetes, stroke, and cancer.
Jesse Marques, founder of Kaʻū Rural Health Community Association, and physician Richard Creagan, who represents East Ka`u into Kona in the state House of Representatives and worked in the Peace Corps in the Marshall Islands , vowed to engage more with the Marshallese and other islanders who have moved here.
See more on Kaʻū Rural Health Community Association at krhcai.com.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our Fresh Food on The Kaʻū Calendar and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.
NOTABLE KĪLAUEA VOLCANO ANNIVERSARIES are the focus of this week's Volcano Watch, written by U.S. Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists and affiliates. Several occur at the end of May:
The past two years of Volcano Watch articles from late May focused on commemorating the 49th and 50th anniversaries of the Mauna Ulu eruption. However, the end of May has several other notable Kīlauea eruption beginnings, changes, and endings. Here, we reflect on some selected anniversaries spanning 1823–2018.
The first eruption of Kīlauea documented by western missionaries was described in William Ellis's account of the 1823 eruption. A 6-mile-long fissure called "the Great Crack" produced the Keaīwa Flow on the lower Southwest Rift Zone sometime in early summer (month unknown). A now seldom-visited part of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, Hawaiians described to Ellis that "Pele had issued from a subterranean cavern and overflowed the lowland… the inundation was sudden and violent, burnt one canoe, and carried four more into the sea. At Mahuku [Bay], the deep torrent of lava bore into the sea..." This description emphasized the importance of eyewitness accounts of volcanic activity.
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HVO scientist measures the episode 12 lava fountain height at Mauna Ulu from Puʻu Huluhulu on its 51st anniversary on Photo by Hans-Ulrich Schmincke |
In 1922, ten years after the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory was founded, a fissure eruption began around 9 p.m. on May 28 in Makaopuhi and Nāpau craters on Kīlauea 's East Rift Zone. The distinctive red glow of an eruption was observed from Uēkahuna Bluff an hour after a strong "swaying" earthquake. HVO scientists drove for 30 minutes and then hiked 3 hours (from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m. ) to reach Makaopuhi. The next day, another field party approached from the east and saw weak spattering in Nāpau Crater before reaching Makaopuhi Crater. Both teams endured hours of jungle bushwhacking to reach the eruption sites.
The explosive 1924 eruption of Halemaʻumaʻu lasted 17 days and ended activity on May 28. In an interesting coincidence, Halemaʻumaʻu unleashed a large ash cloud that resulted in a single fatality on May 18, 1924 – a day later associated with the famous Mount St. Helens eruption.
A 1954 anniversary occurs on May 31 for a 3.5-day-long fissure eruption in Halemaʻumaʻu crater. This eruption was one of the first at Kīlauea to be "anticipated" through geophysical monitoring. HVO scientists had noted signs of increasing pressurization at the summit and stated that "under such conditions, an eruption might come with very little forewarning." They were right. The first earthquake woke residents at 3:42 a.m. , seismic tremor started at 4:09 a.m. , and at 4:10 , there was red glow in the sky.
The 1955 lower Puna eruption ended on May 26 after 88 days of activity in the same area as the recent 2018 eruption. This eruption devastated farmland and isolated Kapoho Village
Mauna Ulu began erupting on Kīlauea 's upper East Rift Zone on May 24, 1969 . It followed a decade of short-lived fissure eruptions and HVO staff suspected it would be another week-to-month-long event. However, activity focused at a single vent between the now buried ‘Alae and ʻĀloʻi craters and continued there almost continuously for 4.5 years. This sustained activity allowed HVO staff to document, study, and understand volcanic processes in great detail. Specifically, the eruption advanced understanding of how lava flows advance and inflate, the effect of lava velocity and slope on flow textures, gas-pistoning behavior, and the formation of pillow basalts when lava flows into the ocean.
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Colored postcard depicting early 20th century eruption at |
Volcano Activity Updates
Kīlauea Volcano is not erupting. Its USGS Volcano Alert level remains at NORMAL (https://volcanoes.usgs.gov/vhp/about_alerts.html). Kīlauea updates are issued monthly.
Kīlauea monitoring data for the past month show variable but typical rates of seismicity and ground deformation, low rates of sulfur dioxide emissions, and only minor geologic changes since the end of eruptive activity in September 2018. The water lake at the bottom of Halema‘uma‘u continues to slowly expand and deepen. For the most current information on the lake, see https://volcanoes.usgs.gov/volcanoes/kilauea/summit_water_resources.html.
Mauna Loa is not erupting and remains at Volcano Alert Level ADVISORY. This alert level does not mean that an eruption is imminent or that progression to eruption from current level of unrest is certain. Mauna Loa updates are issued weekly.
This past week, about 63 small-magnitude earthquakes were recorded beneath the upper elevations ofMauna Loa ; most of these occurred at shallow depths less than 8 kilometers (~5 miles). Global Positioning System measurements show song-term slowly increasing summit inflation, consistent with magma supply to the volcano's shallow storage system. Gas concentrations at the Sulphur Cone monitoring site on the Southwest Rift Zone remain stable. Fumarole temperatures as measured at both Sulphur Cone and the summit have not changed significantly. For more information on current monitoring of Mauna Loa Volcano, see volcanoes.usgs.gov/volcanoes/mauna_loa/monitoring_summary.html.
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Colored postcard depicting 1921 Halemaumau eruption. Postcard courtesy of Hawai‘i |
This past week, about 63 small-magnitude earthquakes were recorded beneath the upper elevations of
There were 3 events with 3 or more felt reports in the Hawaiian islands during the past week: a magnitude-3.8 earthquake 7 km (4 mi) NE of Pāhala at 31 km (19 mi) depth on May 21 at 12:42 a.m., a magnitude-3.0 earthquake 9 km (6 mi) NE of Pāhala at 32 km (20 mi) depth on May 18 at 1:49 p.m., and a magnitude-2.9 earthquake 12 km (7 mi) S of Volcano at 29 km (18 mi) depth on May 16 at 09:07 a.m.
HVO continues to closely monitor both Kīlauea and Mauna Loa .
Visit HVO's website for past Volcano Watch articles, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa updates, volcano photos, maps, recent earthquake info, and more. Email questions to askHVO@usgs.gov.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our Fresh Food on The Kaʻū Calendar and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.
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Read online at kaucalendar.com. See our Fresh Food on The Kaʻū Calendar directory for farms, ranches, takeout. Print edition of The Kaʻū Calendar is free, with 7,500 distributed on stands and to all postal addresses throughout Kaʻū, from Miloliʻi through Volcano throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com and facebook.com/kaucalendar. To advertise your business or your social cause, contact kaucalendarads@gmail.com. |
MOST EVENTS ARE CANCELLED to stem the spread of the novel coronavirus. The state is under a stay-at-home order, with l4 days of quarantine required for anyone coming into the state. Interisland travel is restricted. Those in Hawaiʻi should stay at home unless needing to obtain food or medical care.
ONGOING
Free COVID-19 Screenings are at Bay Clinic during business hours, with appointment. Call 333-3600.
The next drive-thru screening at Nāʻālehu Community Center will be held Wednesday, May 27 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Screening will be carried out by Aliʻi Health, with support from County of Hawai‘i COVID-19 Task Force, Premier Medical Group and Pathways Telehealth.
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A testing team from Aloha Critical Care in Kona will provide testing at St. Jude's every other Wednesday. The next date is June 3 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Wearing masks is required for everyone.
To bypass the screening queue at community test sites, patients can call ahead to Pathways Telehealth, option 5 at 808-747-8321. The free clinic will also offer on-site screening to meet testing criteria. Physicians qualify those for testing, under the guidance of Center for Disease Control & Prevention and Hawaiʻi's COVID-19 Response Task Force.
Those visiting screening clinics will be asked to show photo ID, and any health insurance cards – though health insurance is not required to be tested. They are also asked to bring their own pen to fill in forms.
For further information, call Civil Defense at 935-0031.
ʻO Kaʻū Kākou Market in Nāʻālehu is open three days per week – Monday, Wednesday, and Friday – from 8 a.m. to noon. The goal is no more than 50 customers on the grounds at a time. Vendor booths per day are limited to 25, with 30 feet of space between vendors. Masks and hand sanitizing are required to attend the market. Social distancing will be enforced.
A testing team from Aloha Critical Care in Kona will provide testing at St. Jude's every other Wednesday. The next date is June 3 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.Wearing masks is required for everyone.
To bypass the screening queue at community test sites, patients can call ahead to Pathways Telehealth, option 5 at 808-747-8321. The free clinic will also offer on-site screening to meet testing criteria. Physicians qualify those for testing, under the guidance of Center for Disease Control & Prevention and Hawaiʻi's COVID-19 Response Task Force.
Those visiting screening clinics will be asked to show photo ID, and any health insurance cards – though health insurance is not required to be tested. They are also asked to bring their own pen to fill in forms.
For further information, call Civil Defense at 935-0031.
A wide selection of fresh vegetables and fruits, prepared take away foods, assorted added value foods, breads and baked goods, honey, cheese, grass-fed beef, fish, vegetable plants, masks, handmade soaps, coffee, and more are offered on various days. Contact Sue Barnett, OKK Market Manager, at 808-345-9374, for more and to apply to vend.
Volcano Farmers Market at Cooper Center on Wright Road, off of Old Volcano Highway, is open on Sundays from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m., with much local produce, island beef, and prepared foods. Call 808-967-7800.Free Breakfast and Lunch for Anyone Eighteen and Under is available at Kaʻū High & Pāhala Elementary and at Nāʻālehu Elementary weekdays through May. Each youth must be present to receive a meal. Service is drive-up or walk-up, and social distancing rules (at least six feet away) are observed. Breakfast is served from 7:30 a.m. to 8 a.m., lunch from 11:30 a.m. to noon. Food is being delivered to Ocean View.
St. Jude's Episcopal Church Soup Kitchen is open, with a modified menu and increased health & safety standards, every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Hot showers, the computer lab, and in-person services and bible studies are suspended. Services are posted online on Sundays at stjudeshawaii.org.
The Food Basket's ʻOhana Food Drop is available once a month at four Kaʻū and Volcano locations. People can receive a multi-day supply of shelf-stable and fresh food, depending on supply. Call The Food Basket at 933-6030 for Pāhala and Volcano or at 322-1418 for Nāʻālehu or Ocean View. Food can be picked up from 10 a.m. until pau – supplies run out – at: Pāhala's Kaʻū District Gym at 96-1149 Kamani Street on Tuesday, May 26 and Tuesday, June 30.
Volcano's Cooper Center 19-4030 Wright Road on Wednesday, May 27 and Wednesday, June 24.
Nāʻālehu's Sacred Heart Church 95-558 Mamālahoa Hwy on Monday, June 1.
Ocean View's Kahuku Park
On-Call Emergency Box Food Pantry is open at Cooper Center Tuesdays through Saturdays from 11 a.m. to noon. Call 967-7800 to confirm.
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Enroll in Kua O Ka Lā's Hīpuʻu Virtual Academy for school year 2020-2021, grades four through eight. The Hawaiian Focused Charter School teaches with an emphasis on Hawaiian language and culture. The blended curriculum is offered through online instruction and community-based projects, with opportunities for face-to-face gatherings (with precautions), in an "Education with Aloha" environment.
Kua O Ka Lā offers a specialized program which provides students with core curriculum, content area, and electives in-keeping with State of Hawaiʻi requirements. Combined with Native Hawaiian values, culture, and a place-based approach to education, from the early morning wehena – ceremonial school opening – Kua O Ka Lā students are encouraged to walk Ke Ala Pono – the right and balanced path.
The school's website says Kua O Ka Lā has adopted Ke Ala Pono "to describe our goal of nurturing and developing our youth. We believe that every individual has a unique potential and that it is our responsibility to help our students learn to work together within the local community to create a future that is pono – right." The school aims to provide students with "the knowledge and skills, through Hawaiian values and place-based educational opportunities, that prepare receptive, responsive, and self-sustaining individuals that live 'ke ala pono.'"
See kuaokala.org to apply and to learn more about the school. Call 808-981-5866 or 808-825-8811, or email info@kuaokala.org for more.Free Book Exchanges at the laundromats in Ocean View and Nāʻālehu are provided by Friends of the Kaʻū Libraries. Everyone is invited to take books they want to read. They may keep the books, pass them on to other readers, or return them to the Book Exchange to make them available to others in the community. The selection of books is replenished weekly at both sites.
Make Reservations for Father's Day at Crater Rim Café in Kīlauea Military Camp for Sunday, June 21 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Seating limited due to social distancing. Dinner also available to go. The main course is Prime Rib and Vegetable Alfredo Pasta Bake, with side dishes and dessert, for $27.95 per person. Call 967-8356 for dine-in reservations, to-go orders, and current event information. KMC is open to all authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.
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