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| Sharlaine Gampon, Tante Urban, and Grace Tabios and volunteers helped the Tante & Araceli Urban Foundation distribute 100 boxes of food to those in need at the Nāʻālehu Shopping Center in June. See more below. Photo from the Foundation |
REP. RICHARD ONISHI EXPRESSED CONCERN Monday about the loosening of quarantine requirements for travelers into the state on Aug. 1. Speaking before the state House of Representatives Select Committee of COVID-19 Economic and Financial Preparedness, Onishi said that people who arrive in Hawaiʻi without a negative COVID test will still be allowed to enter Hawaiʻi, if they promise to quarantine themselves. He said those that choose quarantine, should they come in substantial numbers, could put stress on state and county quarantine enforcement.
Onishi recommended widely publicizing the 14-day quarantine requirement in places expected to draw travelers to Hawaiʻi.
Committee members discussed the increasing COVID spread on the mainland, noting that people often have a hard time getting a test and receiving results quick enough to be tested and receive the findings within 72 hours before arriving in Hawaiʻi. HMSA Pres. Mark Mugiishi said the state is working on making tests more easily available across the country, for potential travelers to Hawaiʻi.
A FAKE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT MASK EXEMPTION CARD, indicating that a person has a disability and doesn't have to wear a face covering to protect others from COVID-19, is circulating. The State sent out a message Monday saying the fake ADA mask exemption card is spreading on social media. It has a FTBA logo on the card, which stands for Free To Breathe Association.
The Disability & Communication Access Board under the state Department of Health stated it "wants to let everyone know that the card is fake. It notes the holder is exempt from wearing a mask because it poses a mental or physical risk."
DOH also states that under the Americans with Disabilities Act, the holder isn't required to disclose what type of condition they have. DOH is urging people not to rely on information contained in these social media postings and to visit ADA.gov for accurate information. Also see ada.gov/covid-19_flyer_alert.html.
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.
HAWAIʻI COUNTY WILL RECEIVE A PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION GRANT through the Federal Transit Administration. The state Department of Transportation will receive $8.9 million in CARES ACT funds, through a Rural Area Formula fund.
Rep. Tulsi Gabbard said today, "The COVID-19 pandemic has wreaked havoc on our local economy and crippled many public services. These federal funds will help make sure that the public transportation that people depend on will continue to be available for those who need it most, and be safe to use."
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The money will be shared between Kauaʻi County Transportation Agency and County of Hawaiʻi Mass Transit Agency. These agencies will use the funds for operational expenses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and will help cover salaries, fuel, vehicle maintenance, and cleaning and disinfection supplies.
Gabbard explained that The Federal Transit Administration's Section 5311 Formula Grants for Rural Areas program provides capital, planning, and operating assistance to states to support public transportation in rural areas with populations of less than 50,000, where many residents often rely on public transit to reach their destinations. The program also provides funding for state and national training, and technical assistance, through the Rural Transportation Assistance Program. Funds from this program may be used for planning, capital, operating, job access and reverse commute projects, and the acquisition of public transportation services.
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was the third COVID-19 emergency assistance bill passed by Congress. The bill included direct cash payments to Americans, assistance for those who are out of work due to the outbreak, funding for small businesses, hospitals, and health care workers, and state as well as local governments. The bill's funding for state and local governments included at least $1.2 billion for Hawaiʻi.
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.
CENSUS WORK HAS RESUMED ON THE GROUND IN HAWAIʻI COUNTY. A message Monday says, "The County of Hawai‘i is pleased to note that the U.S. Census Bureau has begun a phased restart of 2020 Census field operations in Hawai‘i." The Hawai‘i Census team has resumed Updated Leave operations to deliver Census invitations to households in rural areas which do not have city-style addresses, and areas that do not receive mail to their home address.
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"The Census Bureau has been consulting with federal, state, and local health officials, and will always incorporate the most current guidance from authorities to ensure the health and safety of staff and the public," says the County statement.
Residents can expect: Census invitations packets delivered to home addresses containing the Census ID for the person living there; Census field staff canvassing areas for places people might be living and dropping off a census invitation and paper questionnaire; and no in-person interactions - Update Leave operations are strictly no-contact.
According to the County statement, "At this time, you should not expect census takers visiting your homes to help you complete the 2020 Census."
Every ten years, the Federal government conducts a Census, which is the basis for distributing more than $675 billion in federal funds annually to communities across the country. These funds support the planning of various needs and initiatives, including public schools, student loans, school meals, special education, Medicaid & Medicare, health care centers, food assistance programs, public housing, first responders, roads, social services, and much more.
"Everyone counts! Responding to the Census is an easy, safe, and important way we can help provide for our families and communities for the next ten years," says the County message.
For more information and to complete a Census, visit census.hawaii.gov/census_2020.
INTERNET CONNECTIONS TO MORE THAN 52,000 HOUSEHOLDS IN HAWAIʻI without the service is the aim of Sen. Mazie Hirono and colleagues, including Sen. Brian Schatz. She co-introduced the Emergency Broadband Connections Act on Monday to provide internet-connected devices and $50 a month toward broadband access to workers who were laid off or furloughed during the pandemic, as well as others in need. Providing this access would help Americans apply for new jobs, access educational opportunities, and seek health care for the duration of the pandemic.
The Senators wrote, "While the coronavirus pandemic rages on, our nation's digital divide makes it more challenging for Americans to stay connected. Estimates suggest that more than 14 million American households don't have any internet. As workers have shifted to telework and students across the country are expected to continue distance learning, it is critical that we get and keep these households connected. The Emergency Broadband Connections Act seeks to close this digital divide by providing internet-connected devices and broadband access to those in need, even as social distancing continues."
Hirono has advocated for boosting high-speed internet access for Americans during the pandemic, including co-sponsoring legislation to provide college students broadband to complete their coursework during the pandemic, and writing a letter asking Senate and House leadership to boost funding for the FCC's internet connectivity program Lifeline.
The legislation is endorsed by dozens of advocacy groups, including the American Civil Liberties Union, the NAACP, the Center for Democracy and Technology, National Consumer Law Center, and others.
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.
HAWAIIAN VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK ![]()
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.
Daily, weekly, and monthly recurring Kaʻū and Volcano Events, Meetings, Entertainment, Exercise, Meditation, and more are listed at kaucalendar.com.
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The Food Basket provides food to those in need. See hawaiifoodbasket.org to verify dates and times. Nāʻālehu's final ʻOhana Food Drop is Wednesday, July 8 from 10 a.m. until pau – supplies run out – at Nāʻālehu Shopping Center. Go to Volcano's Cooper Center at 19-4030 Wright Road on Wednesday, July 22, 10 a.m. until pau. Ocean View residents can go to The Food Basket's pantry at St. Jude's the last Tuesday of the month, July 28.
Pāhala and Nāʻālehu Public Libraries are Open for Pick-Up Services Only. Nāʻālehu is open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9 a.m. to noon and 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Pāhala is open Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to noon and 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Library patrons schedule Library Take Out appointment times to pick up their hold item(s) at their favorite libraries by going to HSPLS Library Catalog and placing a hold on any item(s) they want to borrow, or they may call their favorite library branch to place a hold with the library staff. After receiving a notice that item(s) are ready for pick up, patrons schedule a Library Take Out time at picktime.com/hspls. For patrons who placed holds during the closure, their item(s) are ready for pickup after the patron schedules a Library Take Out appointment. For more information, visit librarieshawaii.org.
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.
Avocado Growers Survey Open: Help identify opportunities for expanding the local avocado industry, to assist local farmers, buyers, and agencies develop strategies to bolster Hawaiʻi's avocado industry, says Hawaiʻi Farmers Union United. Farmers and farm names will be kept anonymous. Results will be shared publicly. Survey completion gives option to register to win a $200 gift certificate to Home Depot. For a hard copy of the survey, email: info@growfruithawaii.com. Take the survey: surveymonkey.com/r/Hawaiiavosurvey2020.
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Learn About Hawaiʻi's History & Culture through the Papakilo Database, a resource developed by The Office of Hawaiian Affairs. The Kahalo Center
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Volcano Art Center Niʻaulani Campus in Volcano Village 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. , closed Saturday and Sunday. The Gallery in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is open Wednesday through Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed Monday and Tuesday. Virtual Shopping Appointments are offered at Volcano Art Center locations. Via Skype or FaceTime, a VAC associate helps customers browse the selection of artwork up close, and gives personalized tips and recommendations to help customers "find that perfect piece of locally made artwork, wherever you are in the world!" Book an appointment online for $5 and VAC staff will help schedule a date and time at volcanoartcenter.org/shop. Shop the online gallery 24/7. Orders are shipped as regularly scheduled. Free local pickup is available.VAC now offers a Virtual Classroom, which features over 90 videos. Visit volcanoartcenter.org for more.
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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 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.
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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.
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.
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The money will be shared between Kauaʻi County Transportation Agency and County of Hawaiʻi Mass Transit Agency. These agencies will use the funds for operational expenses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and will help cover salaries, fuel, vehicle maintenance, and cleaning and disinfection supplies.Gabbard explained that The Federal Transit Administration's Section 5311 Formula Grants for Rural Areas program provides capital, planning, and operating assistance to states to support public transportation in rural areas with populations of less than 50,000, where many residents often rely on public transit to reach their destinations. The program also provides funding for state and national training, and technical assistance, through the Rural Transportation Assistance Program. Funds from this program may be used for planning, capital, operating, job access and reverse commute projects, and the acquisition of public transportation services.
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was the third COVID-19 emergency assistance bill passed by Congress. The bill included direct cash payments to Americans, assistance for those who are out of work due to the outbreak, funding for small businesses, hospitals, and health care workers, and state as well as local governments. The bill's funding for state and local governments included at least $1.2 billion for Hawaiʻi.
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.
CENSUS WORK HAS RESUMED ON THE GROUND IN HAWAIʻI COUNTY. A message Monday says, "The County of Hawai‘i is pleased to note that the U.S. Census Bureau has begun a phased restart of 2020 Census field operations in Hawai‘i." The Hawai‘i Census team has resumed Updated Leave operations to deliver Census invitations to households in rural areas which do not have city-style addresses, and areas that do not receive mail to their home address.
"The Census Bureau has been consulting with federal, state, and local health officials, and will always incorporate the most current guidance from authorities to ensure the health and safety of staff and the public," says the County statement.Residents can expect: Census invitations packets delivered to home addresses containing the Census ID for the person living there; Census field staff canvassing areas for places people might be living and dropping off a census invitation and paper questionnaire; and no in-person interactions - Update Leave operations are strictly no-contact.
According to the County statement, "At this time, you should not expect census takers visiting your homes to help you complete the 2020 Census."
Every ten years, the Federal government conducts a Census, which is the basis for distributing more than $675 billion in federal funds annually to communities across the country. These funds support the planning of various needs and initiatives, including public schools, student loans, school meals, special education, Medicaid & Medicare, health care centers, food assistance programs, public housing, first responders, roads, social services, and much more.
"Everyone counts! Responding to the Census is an easy, safe, and important way we can help provide for our families and communities for the next ten years," says the County message.
For more information and to complete a Census, visit census.hawaii.gov/census_2020.
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| This Nāʻālehu Elementary student enjoys a Chromebook from her school to keep up on her studies, but many children are without an internet connection during the closure of schools due to the pandemic. Photo from Nāʻālehu Elementary |
The Senators wrote, "While the coronavirus pandemic rages on, our nation's digital divide makes it more challenging for Americans to stay connected. Estimates suggest that more than 14 million American households don't have any internet. As workers have shifted to telework and students across the country are expected to continue distance learning, it is critical that we get and keep these households connected. The Emergency Broadband Connections Act seeks to close this digital divide by providing internet-connected devices and broadband access to those in need, even as social distancing continues."
Hirono has advocated for boosting high-speed internet access for Americans during the pandemic, including co-sponsoring legislation to provide college students broadband to complete their coursework during the pandemic, and writing a letter asking Senate and House leadership to boost funding for the FCC's internet connectivity program Lifeline.
The legislation is endorsed by dozens of advocacy groups, including the American Civil Liberties Union, the NAACP, the Center for Democracy and Technology, National Consumer Law Center, and others.
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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| Many outdoor recreation areas in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park are open, but the annual Cultural Festival moves online this year, as precaution against COVID-19 spread. See below for details on all the Park is offering online next week. NPS photo |
Park Ranger Kekoa Rosehill said, "We are excited to share Hawaiian culture by adapting one of our most cherished park events so everyone can participate virtually and safely on our official Facebook page."
The announcement says, "True to the festival's legacy, Hawaiian culture will be shared with a wide audience free of charge. But instead of gathering the community and visitors together in person, the Park will share short videos and other mana‘o (knowledge) about Hawaiian culture virtually. #FindYourVirtualPark" Go to facebook.com/hawaiivolcanoesnps/.
All virtual events will be posted at the listed time, but the content will be available any time afterwards:
Opening ‘Oli Komo will kick off the festival on Sunday, July 5 at 8:08 a.m. Park staff and ‘ohana will blow the pū (conch shell) and chant the ‘Oli Komo together, requesting permission to begin the Virtual Cultural Festival. The ‘Oli Komo, which expresses the intent to learn and do good, was gifted to the park by Kepā Maly. Ranger Kekoa Rosehill narrates.
Mo‘olelo & Places. On Monday, July 6 at 8:08 a.m. and 4 p.m. , learn the mo‘olelo (stories) of Pele the volcano goddess, Kamapua‘a the pig demigod, and others, on the Park's new Moʻolelo web page which debuts that morning. That afternoon, the Park will launch the new Places page, which shares mana‘o (knowledge) about the wahi pana (sacred places) protected within Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park Jaggar Museum
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During next week's virtual annual Cultural Festival, join a Facebook Watch Party of the short documentary on Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death. NPS photo |
Learn to Make a Tī Leaf Lei on Tuesday, July 7 at 8:08 a.m. , with Ranger Leilani Rodrigues of the Kahuku Unit. Learn how to select tī leaves, prepare them for lei making, and how to twist them into a beautiful and easy-to-make garland.
Facebook Watch Party for the documentary, Saving ‘Ōhi‘a. At noon on Wednesday, July 8, grab lunch and join the virtual gathering for a free screening of the Emmy-award winning 28-minute documentary, Saving ‘Ōhi‘a. This 2018 film "explains the significance of the ‘ōhi‘a tree to the people of Hawai‘i and environment, and the threat that the new disease called 'Rapid ‘Ōhi‘a Death' poses to these values," says the announcement. Park ecologist David Benitez, park botanist Sierra McDaniel, and filmmaker Annie Sullivan will answer questions in real-time in the comments. The documentary was filmed partially in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park
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Learn how to make a Pūlumi Nī‘au (Hawaiian Broom) during next week's annual Cultural Festival, hosted virtually this year by Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. NPS photo |
Hawaiian Lua (Martial Arts) with Ranger Michael Newman and Olivia Crabtree on Thursday, July 9 at 8:08 a.m. Bone-breaking maneuvers and war clubs encircled with tiger-shark teeth are probably not the first things to come to mind when one pictures the Hawaiian Islands . The Hawaiian fighting style of lua is a formidable art form that requires skill, specific movement, and a host of deadly weapons. The rangers demonstrate this traditional fighting style.
Learn to Make a Pūlumi Nī‘au (Hawaiian Broom) with Ranger Dean Gallagher on Friday, July 10 at 8:08 a.m. Get swept up in gathering plant materials and learn to make a pūlumi nī‘au, or authentic Hawaiian broom.
Closing ‘Oli Mahalo will close the Virtual Cultural Festival on Saturday, July 11 at 8:08 a.m. Park staff and ‘ohana will blow the pū (conch shell) and chant the ‘Oli Mahalo together, requesting departure to close the festival. Gifted to the park by Kepā Maly, the ‘Oli Mahalo expresses gratitude. Ranger Kekoa Rosehill narrates.
Many areas in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park that provide outdoor experiences like hiking trails, overlooks, and roads, are now open to the public, but services are limited. Visit the Current Conditions page on the park website for a complete list of what's open, and how to prepare for a safe trip to Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, at nps.gov.
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| One-way trails, masks, and social distancing are ways to prevent COVID-19 spread while visiting Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. NPS photo |
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.
TANTE & ARACELI URBAN FOUNDATION has come to the aid of Kaʻū people during the COVID-19 crisis. The Foundation partnered with Will & Grace Variety Store in Nāʻālehu and volunteers to hand out 100 boxes of food to families in need at the Nāʻālehu Shopping Center in June.
Tante Urban, a local restaurateur and Hawaiʻi County mayoral candidate, started Tante & Araceli Urban Foundation in 2016. His foundation has donated over $40K to local institutions such as Partners & Development Foundation's Tūtū & Me program, Kealakehe Girls Soccer Program, Kealakehe Boys Varsity Soccer Team, Konawaena Boys Soccer program, Kona Dance & Performing Arts, Girls Water Polo at Kealakehe High School, U.H. Palamanui Campus Culinary Arts Scholarships, and help for graduating seniors from Kealakehe and Konawaena High Schools and West HawaiỲi Explorations Academy.
A statement from the Foundation says, "The global COVID-19 pandemic has impacted everyone on the Big Island in the worst possible way. The government's travel restrictions as well as 'Social distancing' and 'Stay at home/Quarantine in place' guidance to prevent further spread of the virus have resulted in closure of many island businesses and employee lay-offs or furloughs. Many workers and families who rely on their regular paychecks for a living are now facing extreme difficulty due to this unprecedented pandemic and therefore need support."
In response to the pandemic, Tante & Araceli Foundation sponsored the COVID-19 Kōkua Project in partnership with 808 Building Maintenance, Broke da Mouth Grindz Bar & Grill, CIASI, Filipino Organization of Kona, Hawaiʻi Sober Living & Recovery Center, Jesse Lomogo, and UH Healthcare LLC, to distribute bagged food items and produce to the community around the island, from April to June.
In Nāʻālehu, Will and Grace Tabios, of Will & Grace Variety Store donated a case of sweet potato and a case of papaya to the effort. Grace Tabios said she was happy to help out the community and enjoyed meeting the mayoral candidate Urban, who headed the food distribution.
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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| Tante Urban began Tante & Araceli Urban Foundation in 2016. Photo from the Foundation |
Tante Urban, a local restaurateur and Hawaiʻi County mayoral candidate, started Tante & Araceli Urban Foundation in 2016. His foundation has donated over $40K to local institutions such as Partners & Development Foundation's Tūtū & Me program, Kealakehe Girls Soccer Program, Kealakehe Boys Varsity Soccer Team, Konawaena Boys Soccer program, Kona Dance & Performing Arts, Girls Water Polo at Kealakehe High School, U.H. Palamanui Campus Culinary Arts Scholarships, and help for graduating seniors from Kealakehe and Konawaena High Schools and West HawaiỲi Explorations Academy.
A statement from the Foundation says, "The global COVID-19 pandemic has impacted everyone on the Big Island in the worst possible way. The government's travel restrictions as well as 'Social distancing' and 'Stay at home/Quarantine in place' guidance to prevent further spread of the virus have resulted in closure of many island businesses and employee lay-offs or furloughs. Many workers and families who rely on their regular paychecks for a living are now facing extreme difficulty due to this unprecedented pandemic and therefore need support."
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Tante Urban, founder of Tante & Araceli Urban Foundation, greets a recipient of a large box of food. The foundation passed out food around the island to communities in need from April into June. Photo from the Foundation |
In Nāʻālehu, Will and Grace Tabios, of Will & Grace Variety Store donated a case of sweet potato and a case of papaya to the effort. Grace Tabios said she was happy to help out the community and enjoyed meeting the mayoral candidate Urban, who headed the food distribution.
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.
EIGHTEEN NEW COVID-19 CASES IN HAWAIʻI are reported today, with no new cases on Hawaiʻi Island. There are three active cases on-island. The patients are being monitored by Department of Health.
Oʻahu reported 15 new cases today and lost a case due to updated info. Maui County
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Onset of COVID-19 cases in the last 28 days, by zip code. White is zero cases. Yellow is one to five cases. Light orange (not pictured) is six to ten cases. Dark orange (not pictured) is 11 to 20 cases. Red (not pictured) is 21 to 50 cases. Hawaiʻi Department of Health map |
Hawaiʻi Island recorded its three active cases over the last two weeks. All other 84 confirmed COVID-19 victims on Hawaiʻi Island recovered. Since the pandemic began, no one died here. There were two hospitalizations on-island; both patients have been released.
Since the pandemic began, Oʻahu reported 652 cases, Kauaʻi 38, and Maui County 123. Sixteen victims are residents diagnosed while visiting other places. Statewide, 917 people were confirmed positive for the virus. Eighteen people died.
The daily message from Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense Director Talmadge Magno thanks Hawaiʻi Food Basket and their contributors for providing an ʻOhana Food distribution at Kaʻū District Gym this morning, and the Hawaiʻi National Guard, Sheriffs Department, and County Task Force for helping. Magno said, "The majority of states in our country are continuing to see an increase of large numbers of people being infected by the Coronavirus. This is also reflected in the increase of people being admitted to hospitals and intensive care units. Hawaiʻi remains in a very good place because of your following preventive measures. We must continue in following the policies to keep Hawaiʻi safe. This is a community issue and it needs your help to keep it safe. Wear your face coverings to help keep you and others safe. This is your Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense Agency."
In the United States , more than 2,628,091 cases have been confirmed – an increase of about 64,000 in about 24 hours. The death toll is over 127,928 – almost 1,400 new deaths in about 24 hours.
The worldwide COVID-19 case count is more than 10.4 million. The death toll is more than 508,445.
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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. |
Daily, weekly, and monthly recurring Kaʻū and Volcano Events, Meetings, Entertainment, Exercise, Meditation, and more are listed at kaucalendar.com.
EVENTS
After-School All-Stars Free Virtual Summer Program runs through Friday, July 17. For students going into 6th, 7th, or 8th grade. Classes offered are cooking, baking, fitness, arts & crafts, sports, gardening, and more. Every activity earns one entry in a prize drawing. All materials provided; pick up on Monday mornings, 7:30 a.m. to 8 a.m., in Volcano, Pāhala, Nāʻālehu, or Ocean View. Register at tinyurl.com/KauSummer2020. For more info, contact Chrysa Dacalio, kau@asashawaii.org, 808-561-3710.
Eco-Tour at Shaka Forest Farms, Friday, July 3 at10 a.m. in Volcano Village
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Apply for Small Grants to improve access to healthy foods in underserved areas, create and preserve quality jobs, and revitalize low-income communities through the Healthy Food Financing Initiative, urges The Kohala Center. Deadline to submit a letter of interest is Friday, July 10. Visit the program website or refer to this fact sheet for more information.
After-School All-Stars Free Virtual Summer Program runs through Friday, July 17. For students going into 6th, 7th, or 8th grade. Classes offered are cooking, baking, fitness, arts & crafts, sports, gardening, and more. Every activity earns one entry in a prize drawing. All materials provided; pick up on Monday mornings, 7:30 a.m. to 8 a.m., in Volcano, Pāhala, Nāʻālehu, or Ocean View. Register at tinyurl.com/KauSummer2020. For more info, contact Chrysa Dacalio, kau@asashawaii.org, 808-561-3710.
Eco-Tour at Shaka Forest Farms, Friday, July 3 at
Independence Day Community Barbecue, Saturday, July 4 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. , or as long as supplies last at Volcano Art Center Niʻaulani Campus in Volcano Village
Celebrate 4th of July with OKK at its Market space in Nāʻālehu from10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, July 4. ʻO Kaʻū Kākou will offer shave ice, hot dogs, and watermelon, free to the public, either grab-and-go or during the event. See the Lawn Mower Parade and listen to the music of Keoki Sereno, Sonny Ramos, Tui Masaniai, and Shootz band. Attendees must observe social distancing, sanitize hands at the entry, and wear face masks. OKK will thank Brawny for naming OKK Pres. Wayne Kawachi a Brawny Giant and donating $10,000 to the non-profit group.
Celebrate 4th of July with OKK at its Market space in Nāʻālehu from
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| At OKK Market space in Nāʻālehu on Saturday, July 4 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., enjoy free shave ice, hot dogs, and watermelon; watch the Lawn Mower Parade; and listen to the music of Keoki Sereno, Sonny Ramos, Tui Masaniai, and Shootz band. |
Dine In or Grab-and-Go at Crater Rim Café in Kīlauea Military Camp on Saturday, July 4. Ready-to-Go Family BBQ Special will be served from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and includes 8 BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches, 16 pieces of Local Style Fried Chicken, 8 pieces of 6 oz. Corn on the Cob, 2 lbs. of Coleslaw, 2 lbs. of Steamed Rice, and 2 lbs. of Mashed Potatoes, all for $55.95. Individual To-Go Lunches will also be available for purchase at $12.95 per person. Reservations for dine-in and take-out are required, call 967-8356. KMC is open to all authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply.
Zentangle with Lydia 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Volcano Art Center Volcano Village
Grow Food From Wood: Mushroom Cultivation with Zach Mermel, separate workshops on Saturday, July 18 and Sunday, July 19 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Volcano Art Center Niʻaulani Campus in Volcano Village
Strategies to Jump-Start Your Writing by Jacquolyn McMurray and Kristin Wolfgang, a virtual workshop via Zoom, will be held Saturday, July 25 from 9 a.m. to noon . "How long has writing been on your bucket list? Are you ready to make 2020 the year you finally get started or restarted? This class is perfect for all writers seeking new inspiration and strategies." volcanoartcenter.org/events, 967-8222
Apply for Grants to Help Socially Disadvantaged Groups develop business and strategic plans in rural areas through USDA Rural Development through 6 p.m. HST on Aug. 10 at grants.gov. Eligible applicants include cooperatives, groups of cooperatives, and cooperative development centers. USDA defines a socially disadvantaged group as one "whose members have been subjected to racial, ethnic or gender prejudice because of their identity as members of a group without regard to their individual qualities."
Applicants are encouraged to consider projects that provide measurable results in helping rural communities build robust and sustainable economies through strategic investments in infrastructure, partnerships and innovation. Key strategies include e-connectivity for rural America , developing rural economies, harnessing technological innovation, supporting a rural workforce, and improving quality of life.
ONGOING
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.
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.
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.
Avocado Growers Survey Open: Help identify opportunities for expanding the local avocado industry, to assist local farmers, buyers, and agencies develop strategies to bolster Hawaiʻi's avocado industry, says Hawaiʻi Farmers Union United. Farmers and farm names will be kept anonymous. Results will be shared publicly. Survey completion gives option to register to win a $200 gift certificate to Home Depot. For a hard copy of the survey, email: info@growfruithawaii.com. Take the survey: surveymonkey.com/r/Hawaiiavosurvey2020.
Begin Learning Basics of Organic Farming from two free modules of a virtual training program. Accessible online, additional modules will be added. The course is presented by the Organic Farming Research Foundation, the University of California Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education Program, and California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo .
Guided Nature Walks through Nature Trail & Sculpture Garden
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Exhibition Mixed Flock: Prints by Margaret Barnaby and Pottery by Emily Herb has been held over through Aug. 8. Also available to view online, view the exhibition in person the Gallery in the Park during normal gallery hours, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. , Wednesday through Sunday. Free. The exhibition features two prominent female artists from Volcano Village
Yoga with Emily Catey Weiss, Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. at Volcano ArtCenter Niʻaulani Campus in Volcano Village. Advanced registration required; $5 per class. volcanoartcenter.org/events, 967-8222
Ocean View Swap Meet is open at Ocean View makai shopping center, near Mālama Market. Hours for patrons are 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Vendor set-up time is 5 a.m. Masks are required for all vendors and patrons.
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.
Kua O Ka Lā offers a specialized program that 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.
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