 |
| Hawaiʻi County's Highway Division Cheif, Neil Azevedo, is running for Mayor of Hawaiʻi County. Read more, below. Photo from friendsofneilazavedo.com |
See our Fresh Food on The Kaʻū Calendar directory for farms, ranches, takeout.
REGISTER TO VOTE. DEADLINE FOR THE PRIMARY ELECTION is this Thursday, July 9 at 4:30 p.m. Register or confirm mailing address at olvr.hawaii.gov, or mail in registration with postmark by the deadline. Same-day voter registration is available at Voter Service Centers in Kona and Hilo. Ballots can be expected for delivery around Tuesday, July 21, and must be postmarked by Aug. 3. Election Day for counting the votes is Saturday, Aug. 8. Those who believe their ballot will not make the deadline can take them to Nāʻālehu Police Station 24 hours a day, July 27 through Aug. 7, and on Election Day, Aug. 8, through 7 p.m. See elections.hawaii.gov.
A NEW EMPLOYEE TESTED POSITIVE FOR COVID-19 AT KAʻŪ HOSPITAL'S RURAL HEALTH CLINIC on Monday. The health care provider had worked there for two days. Kaʻū Hospital's administrator Merilyn Harris said the employee is isolated at home. "All the clinic patients seen by the provider were notified immediately and their names given to the Department of Health for follow-up. Both employee and patients were wearing masks as required by the Centers for Disease Control so the risk to patients of exposure is considered to be low."
Other clinic staff members "have all been tested as an extra precaution and the clinic has been thoroughly cleaned. We hope to have test results available tomorrow. The clinic will be closed for patient visits until Thursday, July 9 to allow time for the test results to be obtained. Meanwhile, clinic staff are on-site to handle prescription refills and telephone consultations.
"We know this event has caused worry for some and we want to reassure the community that we are following all guidance from the Department of Health and that our hospital and clinic remain safe places for patients and staff. It's important to note that the employee did not have contact with hospitalized patients.
"Because of the number of kūpuna that live in our hospital, we will be continuing the no visitor policy for their protection. We will also continue with our practice of screening all people entering the building for temperature and respiratory symptoms, hand sanitizing, and require that everyone wear a mask," said the hospital and clinic administrator.
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.
FORTY-ONE NEW COVID-19 CASES IN HAWAIʻI are reported today. Hawaiʻi Island reports one new case. There are eight active cases on-island, reports Department of Health. All active patients are monitored by DOH. All eight cases are travel-related, says a statement from DOH, which "emphasizes the importance of caution of travel."
![]()
At a news briefing today, Gov. David Ige said the 41 new COVID-19 cases reported by DOH mark "the highest we've had, and it is concerning. However, as we re-opened our economy, we expected this. We are tracking this very closely and it is manageable right now. We have the ability to test people we need to test, and DOH has significantly increased the number of people available to trace the contacts of positive cases." Ige also said he is "in daily discussions with DOH, the county mayors, and other leaders. As we have done in the past, we will continue to make decisions based on the best available science and facts. We have not made any decisions yet and will let you know as soon as any changes are necessary."
DOH officials remind the public that Hawaiʻi could continue to see a spike in the number of COVID-19 cases as levels of activity increase within the state. DOH Director Dr. Bruce Anderson said, "Now more than ever it is critically important for everyone to wear a cloth face mask whenever outside of their home. Many of the clusters we have been investigating are associated with situations where a mask has not been worn or physical distancing was not exercised. These are new infections that are not associated with known cases and investigations... We have an opportunity now to turn around these numbers before opening travel and safely resuming school and work. Let's take this opportunity to all wear masks and do our part to prevent COVID-19."
 |
| A new employee at Kaʻū Rural Health Clinic tested positive for COVID-19. |
"We know this event has caused worry for some and we want to reassure the community that we are following all guidance from the Department of Health and that our hospital and clinic remain safe places for patients and staff. It's important to note that the employee did not have contact with hospitalized patients.
"Because of the number of kūpuna that live in our hospital, we will be continuing the no visitor policy for their protection. We will also continue with our practice of screening all people entering the building for temperature and respiratory symptoms, hand sanitizing, and require that everyone wear a mask," said the hospital and clinic administrator.
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.
DOH officials remind the public that Hawaiʻi could continue to see a spike in the number of COVID-19 cases as levels of activity increase within the state. DOH Director Dr. Bruce Anderson said, "Now more than ever it is critically important for everyone to wear a cloth face mask whenever outside of their home. Many of the clusters we have been investigating are associated with situations where a mask has not been worn or physical distancing was not exercised. These are new infections that are not associated with known cases and investigations... We have an opportunity now to turn around these numbers before opening travel and safely resuming school and work. Let's take this opportunity to all wear masks and do our part to prevent COVID-19."
State Epidemiologist Dr. Sarah Park said, "This latest report shows COVID-19 is widely circulating in our community. The numbers today will likely continue, at least at this level, if people continue to disregard using their masks and physical distancing. While we have an increased number of staff at DOH and are in the process of hiring newly trained contact tracers, the community must adhere to safe practices - as no amount of contact tracing and testing will combat a respiratory pathogen alone."
DOH continues to monitor several clusters, including one associated with Hawaiian Airlines which now involves 15 cases; 13 staff and two close contacts of those employees. Nine cases are associated with a gym in Honolulu that had poor ventilation and insufficient physical distancing. Other clusters include seven cases at a food distribution company, four cases involving a hardware distributor, and a cluster of 17 cases on Kaua‘i. Community outreach and testing activities continue.
 |
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 |
Oʻahu reported 33 new cases today, Kauaʻi two. The state's new case total is 435 in 32 days.
Hawaiʻi Island recorded its eight active cases over the last two weeks. All other 87 confirmed COVID-19 victims on Hawaiʻi Island recovered. Since the pandemic began, no one died here. There were three hospitalizations on-island; those patients have been released.
Since the pandemic began, Oʻahu reported 788 cases, Kauaʻi 42, and Maui County 128. Eighteen victims are residents diagnosed while visiting other places. Statewide, 1,071 people were confirmed positive for the virus. Nineteen people died.
The daily message from Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense Director Talmadge Magno says, "To keep Hawaiʻi in a good place know how important it is for everyone to continue, and even get better, in following the preventive policies of face coverings, distancing, gatherings, and cleanliness. This is a community issue and your help is needed to keep Hawaiʻi safe. Wear your face coverings to keep you and others safe. Thank you for listening and thank you for doing your part in keeping yourself, your family, your friends, and your community safe.This is your Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense Agency."
In the United States , more than 2,922,000 cases have been confirmed – an increase of nearly 60,000 in about 24 hours. The death toll is over 131,248.
The worldwide COVID-19 case count is more than 11.7 million. The death toll is more than 540,582.
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.
 |
Kīlauea Military Camp is open, along with its six-lane bowling alley. Photo by Julia Neal |
At the bowling alley and its 10-Pin Grill snack bar, signs are posted and staff members said they will tell everyone to wear masks when bowling or picking up food and drinks from the counter. Those who refuse will be escorted out by a National Park Ranger. Masks can be removed for eating and drinking, when distanced from groups of people who are not in the same party.
Bowling is open, by appointment, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. On Saturday, a senior league played before the public opening. To reserve bowling times, call KMC at 967-8350. The 10-Pin Grill offers everything from burgers to pizza, dinner specials, hot and cold sandwiches, as well as beer.
 |
| KMC's bowling alley is open daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., with requirements to wear masks and socially distance when playing and retrieving food from the adjacent 10-Pin Grill. Photo by Julia Neal |
Lava Lounge bar opens from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Food can be ordered and delivered to the bar from Crater Rim Café or 10-Pin Grill.
See kilaueamilitarycamp.com. Call 967-8333.
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 REMAINS ONE OF THE MOST RESTRICTIVE PLACES in the U.S. regarding COVID-19 precautions, according to a recent report from WalletHub. Since May 5, WalletHub has reviewed restrictions in place to mitigate spread of the novel coronavirus. Hawaiʻi consistently ranks in the top six of most restrictive states. On May 5, Hawaiʻi ranked first; May 19, sixth; June 9, fourth; June 23, fourth; July 7, third.
As of July 7, only California and Colorado have more restrictions in place than Hawaiʻi. New Jersey and New Mexico rank fourth and fifth. The least restrictive states as of July 7 are South Dakota, Wisconsin, Utah, Wyoming, and Oklahoma.
All states have at least partially reopened after keeping non-essential businesses closed for months due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Some states recently chose to pause reopening processes due to spikes in cases. WalletHub's key metrics take into account whether the state requires face masks in public, civilian and military travel restrictions, restrictions on large gatherings, school closures, if restaurants and bars are open and if they have customer screening in place, reopening of non-essential businesses, if there is legislation on business immunity from COVID-19 claims, if workplaces conduct temperature screenings, if childcare is reopened, how strict "shelter in place" orders are, enforcement or penalties for non-compliance of COVID-19 rules, if the state is part of a multi-state agreement on reopening, suspension or postponement of legislative and/or court sessions, state guidance on non-essential medical procedures, and state guidance for assisted living facilities. |
| NOAA map |
TROPICAL STORM CHRISTINA is set to develop into a Category One hurricane in 24 hours but devolve back into a storm by Sunday, still about 2,000 miles from Hawaiʻi.
An unnamed disturbance 1,000 miles southwest of Hawaiʻi, has a ten percent chance of developing into a tropical cyclone by the weekend
A MAGNITUDE 3.5 QUAKE ROCKED PĀHALA at 11:45 a.m. The temblor's epicenter was 8 km east of Pāhala and was felt in Discovery Harbour and beyond. The depth was 19.8 miles.
 |
| USGS map of today's M3.5 quake. |
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 HIGHWAYS DIVISION CHIEF NEIL AZEVEDO IS RUNNING FOR MAYOR. Azevedo is a kamaʻāina of Hilo ; a father, grandfather, coach, and experienced leader. He grew up in Waiākea Uka as the youngest of 11 siblings in a blue-collar family. He was taught "community and ‘ohana are one and the same, that together, amazing things can happen," says his campaign website
In late May and June, Azevedo's campaign fed 1,300 people, in partnership with L&L Barbecue in Ocean View and Captain Cook, Big Island Grill in Kona, Blaine's Drive Inn in Keaʻau, Cronie's in Hilo, Convenience Plus in Honokaʻa, and Earl's in Waimea.
In the private construction sector, Azevedo worked for over 30 years to build infrastructure and facilities such as Keaʻau High School, UH Hilo Athletic Complex, and Issac Hale Beach Park.
 |
| Hawaiʻi County Mayoral candidate Neil Azevedo. Photo from friendsofneilazevedo.com |
As Highways Division Chief since 2015, Azevedo leads a team that delivered public roads and facilities improvements, like paving Hoʻolulu Complex parking, widening shoulders on Waikoloa Road , and the Queen's Lei multi-modal path alongside Ane Keohokālole Highway .
After hurricanes, earthquakes and lava flows, Azevedo's leadership "was critical in disaster response and recovery, working side by side with federal, state, and county emergency management under two mayoral administrations. Neil worked to build evacuation routes and close access to unsafe areas, and even went door-to-door to ensure everyone evacuated safely," reports the campaign website.
An athlete since his days at Waiākea High School Portland State University
"As a dedicated father of five and a proud grandfather of one, Neil knows that the decisions we make to build a healthy and thriving Hawaiʻi Island community is not just for us – it's for future generations," says his site.
In a large field of 15 mayoral candidates, Azevedo's candidacy is based on three principles: keep it simple, spend wisely, and get the job done. On his website, he says county government "exists to serve the people, so it should be simple enough for people to understand and navigate." He recommends a "common-sense" approach to building permits, including timeliness so people can work, have homes built, and fill county coffers with property tax revenues. He says the island mass transit system needs to be working island-wide, and suggests investment in bike-share, park-and-ride facilities, and trails.
 |
| Neil Azevedo, at work. Photo from friendsofneilazevedo.com |
Azevedo says county government should be "accessible to everyone on our island." He wants a cabinet that represents the whole island, and he would "spend time in Hilo and Kona offices, and having consistent relationships in all communities."
In a recent interview with KITV 4, Azevedo said, "As a team, we will make changes, with the first being a common-sense approach to the building permitting process and focus on our core values with public health and safety. Our team will work on how to improve transportation connectivity on Hawaiʻi Island. We will engage the non-profits and interfaith community as true partners. We will work closely with businesses towards the economic recovery and regrowth post-COVID. These are just a few changes we will bring to Hawai‘i County."
Learn more about Azevedo at friendsofneilazevedo.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.
 |
| Watch the video of Matsonia's christening: matson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Matsonia-christening-highlights.mp4. |
At 870 feet long, 114 feet wide, with a draft of 38 feet and weighing in at over 50,000 metric tons, Matsonia and Lurline are the largest vessels in Matson's fleet and the largest con-ros ever built in the United States . The two ships cost Matson $500 million and are among four new vessels that Matson put into service since 2018.
 |
Assembly block at NASSCO in Photo from Matson |
Each Kanaloa Class vessel has an enclosed garage with room for about 500 vehicles, plus ample space for rolling stock and breakbulk cargo. They also feature state-of-the-art green technology, including a fuel-efficient hull design, environmentally safe double hull fuel tanks, freshwater ballast systems, and the first Tier 3 dual-fuel engines to be deployed in containerships regularly serving West Coast ports.
Under the latest International Maritime Organization requirements for engine manufacturers, Tier 3 engines reduce the levels of particulate emissions by 40 percent and nitrogen oxide emissions by 20 percent, as compared to Tier 2 standards. Matson's deployment of Tier 3 engines in both Kanaloa Class vessels is supported by California Climate Investments, a statewide initiative that puts billions of Cap-and-Trade dollars to work reducing greenhouse gas emissions, strengthening the economy and improving public health and the environment – particularly in disadvantaged communities.
 |
christens Matsonia on Thursday, July 2. Photo from Matson |
A statement from Matson says that Matsoniaand Lurline are two of the most environmentally friendly vessels in its fleet. They are also among the fastest, with top speed of 23 knots, helping ensure on-time deliveries to Hawaiʻi from Matson's three West Coast terminals in Seattle , Oakland , and Long Beach .
Matt Cox, Matson's chairman and chief executive officer, said, "Matson is already benefitting from the speed, capacity and improved environmental profile of the three new ships we've put into service since 2018. Matsonia will be our fourth new ship, completing a three-year fleet renewal program that positions us well to serve the needs of our communities in Hawaiʻi for many years to come. As a proud U.S. company and Jones Act carrier, our investment in this new ship is about much more than maintaining a high level of service to Hawaiʻi. It also helps drive substantial economic benefits in and opportunities in communities around the Pacific, where this vessel will operate."
Dave Carver, President of General Dynamics NASSCO, said, "The Matsonia is a reflection of the highest standards of shipbuilding and we are proud to celebrate her launching. This extraordinary vessel is a testament to the hard work, unity, and strength of our thousands of dedicated shipbuilders who made this possible."
The first Matson ship named Matsonia was built by Newport News Shipbuilding & Drydock Co. Launched on August 16, 1912 , it was in service for three years before being commandeered by the U.S. Shipping Board to serve as a Navy Transport in the Atlantic during WWI. As a passenger liner, the original Matsonia could accommodate 242 passengers in addition to 10,000 tons of cargo. This Matsoniais the fifth ship to bear the name.
 |
Matsonia at NASSCO Shipyard on |
DEEP DISCOUNTS TO ATTEND THE 27th ANNUAL HAWAIʻI CONSERVATION CONFERENCE from Tuesday, Sept. 1 to Thursday, Sept. 3, are available at hawaiiconservation.org. Registrants of this year's three-day virtual event, Ola Ka ʻĀina Momona: Managing for Abundance, will have access to all virtual conference sessions, the exhibit hall, and conference materials. Students, emerging professionals, and staff of small non-profit organizations are eligible for special registration discounts. The registration system is expected to be open next week.
Ola Ka ʻĀina Momona, The Abundant Land Thrives, expands on the idea that land and sea ecosystems maintain their abundant biocultural diversity and thrive, through our efforts to achieve sustainability and enhance the viability of all life on Earth, says the conference website.
"People across the world depend on the resources and services that nature provides. However, increasing regional and global pressures on our biocultural resources are threatening the sustainability and viability of interdependent natural and social systems. We need to improve our understanding of these systems, ways to enhance their viability, and foster more reciprocal and symbiotic relationships between people and their places.
"In ʻŌiwi (indigenous Hawaiian) culture, the concept of ʻāina momona describes places of biocultural resource abundance, such as lush riverine valleys, fresh water springs, estuaries, healthy nearshore reefs, rich agricultural complexes, and profoundly productive nearshore fishponds, which resulted in a rich ‘Ōiwi society. ʻĀina momona is not absent of human presence, but rather, reflects an active and symbiotic relationship between people and their place. This conference invites presenters and attendees to apply the concept of ʻāina momona to explore the study and practice of conservation, restoration, and stewardship of the landscapes. Conference highlights include presentations from "impactful speakers;" opportunities to learn about different technologies, methods, and approaches to conservation; field activities; and new and strengthened partnerships among the conservation community.
Hawaiʻi Conservation Conference allows a diverse group of scientists, policymakers, conservation practitioners, educators, students and community members from Hawaiʻi and the Pacific to converge and discuss conservation. The website says, "It's a time to connect, share, and inspire, all with the common goal of caring for our natural resources. Thank you for your ongoing support and all the hard work you do to care for our biocultural resources. Be well, take care of yourselves and your families, and don't hesitate to contact us if you have questions about this year's conference at conference@hawaiiconservation.org.
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.
STARS OVER KAʻŪ – July 2020, by Lew and Donna Cook
July 4, 2020 7:04 pm 5:20 am ** July 3, 2020 5:49 am 7:04 pm
 |
How to use this map: Hold this map over your head so that the northern horizon points toward the north on the Earth. For best results, use a red flashlight to illuminate the map. If you are looking east, hold it in front of you so that east is on the bottom. For south views, south at the bottom, and for west, west at the bottom. Use this map at the times shown on in its upper left corner. Keep this page handy and show it to your keiki next month. They probably have bedtimes before the time of the chart shown here. The constellations are presented with their 3-letter abbreviations, with their common names shown in the margins. This is done to take advantage of the truly dark skies Ka‘ū is blessed with when there is no bright moon and the skies are clear of vog. The star charts are produced from a sky Atlas program written by Jerry Hudson, who has given us permission to publish it. Thank you, Jerry. |
The Sun and Planets
Some of you no doubt have heard of the SpaceX launch of two astronauts to the International Space Station. The rocket was launched in late May from Cape Canaveral , FL. California who took a picture of the ISS crossing the face of the sun.
 |
| Four successive frames from Dale Hasselfeld's CAMERA has a lens zoomed to 600 mm at 8 frames per second. The shot was captured from arc welder's helmet. Credit: Dale Hasselfeld |
He put a special filter over his camera's lens to reduce the brightness of the sun and save his camera from damage. Four images were combined here (see photo). There are two sunspots visible, which suggests the next solar cycle may have begun.
ISS passes over Hawaiʻi several times per week. You can see it during its twilight passes by signing up to be notified at: spotthestation.nasa.gov.
Jupiter and Saturn are up at chart time, 10 p.m. on the 15th. Mars will rise around 11:30 p.m. and Venus is the morning star, appearing in Taurus rising around 1 a.m.
Constellations and Deep Sky Objects
This time of year is the time for globular clusters, which reside in large elliptical orbits around the galactic center. Excellent examples are M13 in Hercules, and NGC 6441, which the Hubble Space Telescope imaged and is shown here. These are very dense and compact bunches of tens of thousands of stars, and are among the oldest stars grouped together. Scorpius, Sagittarius, and Ophiuchus have many bright globular clusters. In fact, most of the globular clusters in our galaxy can be found here.
 |
Lots and lots of stars! This Hubble Space Telescope image shows just how crowded the stars can be in an average globular cluster. Until recently, ground-based telescopes could not separate the stars in the center of most globular clusters. CREDIT: ESA, Hubble, NASA, G. Piotto |
Local Attractions
The ‘Imiloa Planetarium in Hilo may continue its closure through July but there is a wealth of information at ʻimiloa@home. See imiloahawaii.org/imiloaathome for great information.
Moon Phases
Date Moonrise Moonset
Full Moon
Last Quarter
July 12 11:59 pm* 12:24 pm
New Moon
July 20 5:53 am 7:30 pm
First Quarter
July 27 12:53 am 12:41 am **
*day prior **next morning
Fridays Sunrise and Sunset times
Date Sunrise Sunset
July 10 5:51 am 7:04 pm
July 17 5:54 am 7:03 pm
July 24 5:56 am 7:01 pm
July 31 5:59 am 6:58 pm
 |
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
![]()
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.![]()
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.
![]()
Zentangle with Lydia 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Volcano Art Center 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
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
![]()
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.
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park Virtual Cultural Festival runs through July 11 on social media. Hawaiian culture is shared with a wide audience free of charge. Instead of gathering the community and visitors together in person, the Park shares short videos and other mana‘o (knowledge) about Hawaiian culture virtually. #FindYourVirtualPark. Go to facebook.com/hawaiivolcanoesnps/.
All virtual events since Saturday are posted and available to review. Upcoming are:
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. 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
Hawaiian Lua (Martial Arts) with Ranger Michael Newman and Olivia Crabtree on Thursday, July 9 at 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.Free Virtual Storytime Sessions with Jeff Gere, Tuesday-Wednesday-Thursday for three weeks, 9:30 a.m. to 10:10 a.m., through July 23. Partnered with UH-Mānoa's Outreach College Statewide Cultural Extension Program. To attend each show, email jeffgere1031@gmail.com and csinfo@hawaii.edu, with the subject SCEP : Jeff Gere. In the body of the email, copy & paste in the programs wanted to watch from the list below. An email confirming the reservation will confirm receipt. About 30 minutes before each show starts at 9:30 a.m. , csinfo@hawaii.edu will email the Zoom link to the email provided.
Tuesdays: Little Kids Tales. July 14, Silly N' Spooky Tales. July 21, Teaching Tales. Wednesdays: Folktales. July 8, Jack & Evil Mountain
During performances, leave microphones off so everyone can enjoy the show. Share sign-up information with "as many listeners as you like" and watch "as many shows as you like." Tech questions should be directed to summer aides. All attendees will be asked to answer a host and technology questionnaire after each show. Zoom's WEBINAR format does not allow a view of the audience. "We won't be able to see your children. It is not an issue."
![]()
Join a Telephone Town Hall 4 p.m. The meeting – the 15th Gabbard has hosted since the pandemic began – will be held to update Hawaiʻi residents about COVID-19. Gabbard will be joined by guests Dr. Scott Miscovich, who has been leading testing efforts across the state and has served as a senior adviser to Lt. Gov. Josh Green, and Darin Leong, an unemployment attorney who has worked with Hawaiʻi community leaders to raise awareness about relief programs available to employers and employees.
Gabbard, Miscovich, and Leong will discuss the surge in COVID-19 cases, Hawaiʻi's testing and tracing capacity, and what can be done to help stop the spread of the virus. They will also discuss federal emergency assistance programs that are still available to help people during the ongoing crisis.
Sign up on Gabbard's website to receive a phone call to join the event. Or listen online at gabbard.house.gov/live.
Talk Story on Living with Serious Illness, Friday, July 10 from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Virtual event, hosted by Hawaiʻi Care Choices, will feature personal insights on "why accessing healthcare early can boost the quality of life" from former Hawaiʻi County Mayor Billy Kenoi, and Rodney Powell, a licensed clinical social worker and service coordina
After-School All-Stars Free Virtual Summer Program runs through Friday, July 17 - register before July 10. 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.
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.
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.
Kaʻū Chapter of Hawaiʻi Farmers Union United meets this Sunday, July 12 at Wood Valley Ranch mamaki tea farm at 96-02232 South Road . It begins at 1 p.m. and includes a pot luck and tour of the mamaki farm, which is the new home of interim President Matt Dreyer. Among the Kaʻū Farmers Union initiatives are a food hub for Kaʻū, with CSA, and an online store platform to sell locally grown food.
Virtual 80th Meeting of Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary Advisory Council, Tuesday, July 14 from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. The public is invited to attend. The council will introduce new and returning members; have presentations on advisory council guidelines, sanctuary updates, and discussions on potential council action topics; and address questions from members and the public. Public comment begins about 10:30 a.m. To provide comment, sign up in advance, email cindy.among-serrao@noaa.gov or type a comment into the Question box. Register in advance at attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/5189333551313546256. Learn more on Facebook; Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary, hawaiihumpbackwhale.noaa.gov; NOAA Office of National Marine Sanctuaries, sanctuaries.noaa.gov; State of Hawaiʻi Division of Aquatic Resources, dlnr.hawaii.gov/dar.
Bid on a Cottage with a covered lanai through a closed auction by Habitat for Humanity through July 15 at5 p.m. The 780 square foot cottage was dismantled and donated to Habitat for Humanity Hawaiʻi Island. Starting bid is $15,000 and it will be sold "as is" and with no warranty. Stored in a container in Waimea, it includes lanai, exterior walls, subfloor, windows (missing one), front door, roofing, front stairs, and conceptual plans created by Habitat. To place a bid, send an email to info@habitathawaiiisland.org with name, phone number, and bid amount. Bids accepted in increments of $500. Winner will be contacted July 16. In the case of a tie, the person that submitted the winning bid first will be the winner. To view the dismantled cottage, visit the Waimea ReStore at 65-1259 Kawaihae Road 1 p.m and 4 p.m. Email info@habitathawaiiisland.org with questions.
![]()
Free ZOOM Talk on Finding Solutions, Growing Peace, noon to 1 p.m. , Thursday, July 16. Non-profit Ku‘ikahi Mediation Center
Bid on a Cottage with a covered lanai through a closed auction by Habitat for Humanity through July 15 at
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
Apply for Grants to Start, Expand, or Improve Rural Cooperatives and other mutually-owned businesses in rural America . USDA will make $5.8 million in grants available under the Rural Cooperative Development Grant program. USDA encourages applications that will help improve life in rural America . Key strategies include: Achieving e-Connectivity for Rural America, Developing the Rural Economy, Harnessing Technological Innovation, Supporting a Rural Workforce, and Improving Quality of Life. Nonprofit corporations and institutions of higher education are eligible to apply, to provide technical assistance to individuals and rural businesses. Fiscal year 2019 award recipients who received a grant period extension due to a loss of operations as a result of the coronavirus pandemic are eligible to apply for fiscal year 2020 funding. Electronic applications must be submitted to grants.gov by 6 p.m. HST Aug. 3. Additional information is available on page 39870 of the July 2 Federal Register.
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,
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."
Apply for Internships with Sen. Brian Schatz's office. Internships for undergrad, graduate, and law students are offered in the Honolulu and Washington D.C.
Non-office internships are open for high school students to advocate in their communities. Applications due Sunday, Sept. 13.
Schatz may also nominate exceptional students for appointment to the U.S. Service Academies. Applications due Friday, Oct. 23.
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.
Volcano Friends Feeding Friends, Cooper Center 19-4030 Wright Rd. Served by Friends Feeding Friends Thursday, July 30 – the last Thursday of the month. Call 985-7140 to verify.
On-Call Emergency Box Food Pantry is open at Cooper Center weekdays from 8 a.m. to noon. Eligible one time every three months. Call Kehau, 443-4130.
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.
Find Resources for LGBTQ+, Loved Ones, and Allies at Sexual and Gender Minority online resource hub. Hawaiʻi Department of Health's first website dedicated to LGBTQ+ resources. Developed by the Sexual and Gender Minoroty Workgroup in partnership with the DOH Harm Reduction Services Branch. Resources: Understanding the Pacific's alternative genders; Pronoun guide; Book lists for children and teens; ʻOhana support; and DOH data. For more information on joining the SGM Workgroup, email Thaddeus Pham at thaddeus.pham@doh.hawaii.gov. See
Learn About Hawaiʻi's History & Culture through the Papakilo Database, a resource developed by The Office of Hawaiian Affairs. The Kahalo Center
Guided Nature Walks through Nature Trail & Sculpture Garden
Ocean View Swap Meet is open at Ocean View makai shopping center, near Mālama Market. Hours for patrons are
ʻO Kaʻū Kākou Market in Nāʻālehu is open three days per week – Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday – replacing Friday with Saturday, 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.
More food vendors are added on Mondays, including Bella's Mexican takeaway hot foods.
Lau Lau Man and Flyin' Hawaiian Coffee return to the Market on Wednesdays.
Saturday will host vendors who have not been able to get space at the Wednesday market. The Saturday Market will feature familiar faces and plenty of new sellers.
OKK's Nāʻālehu Market offers 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, on various days. Contact Sue Barnett, OKK Market Manager, at 808-345-9374 (voice or text) or kaufarmer@aol.com for more and to apply to vend. See facebook.com/OKauKakouMarket.
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.
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.
