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| The new wayside exhibit at Kīlauea Overlook has 3D models of Kaluapele (Kīlauea caldera) that reveal the geologic changes to the summit area over time. Pictured: Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park Acting Superintendent Rhonda Loh (left); park visual information specialist Andrew LaValle (front), Friends of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park President & CEO Elizabeth Fien and park volunteer George Jensen (right). Read details, below. NPS Photo/Janice Wei |
"WE TOOK THE TIME DEMOCRACY DESERVED," said Congressman Ed Case, commenting on the days of vote counting that led to Joe Biden becoming president-elect and Kamala Harris becoming vice president-elect. On Saturday, Case, who has represented Kaʻū and now represents urban Oʻahu, said, "Now the real work begins, of charting a better path forward for all Americans, of healing a bitterly divided country, of listening to and including the almost half of our fellow Americans who chose differently.
"This work will be profoundly difficult. But today we all can reflect with pride and humility on the resilience of our democracy and recommit ourselves each in our own way to our own role and responsibility."
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 U.S. SENATE MAJORITY WILL BE DECIDED no earlier than Jan. 5, due to scheduled runoffs in both Georgia races. As of 6:30 p.m., Alaska and one of North Carolina's races were not yet called. Both races lean toward the Republican candidate. If either of Georgia's races is decided for the Republican candidate, the Senate will likely retain a Republican majority. Hawaiʻi held no U.S. Senate races this year.
Sen. Brian Schatz tweeted today: "These Georgia Senate races will determine whether or not we can pass a new Voting Rights Act. These two Georgia Senate races will determine whether we are going to preserve ACA and protect people w pre-existing conditions if and when the SCOTUS trashes the health care law. These upcoming Georgia Senate races will determine whether or not Mitch McConnell has a veto over the Biden cabinet.
"I'm not going to tolerate anyone suddenly finding their inner fiscal discipline now that Biden is President Elect. We need major investments to help businesses and families come out the other side of this. Policy should be expansionary for economic, moral, and health reasons. *I really enjoyed typing the words 'now that Biden is President Elect.'"
THE U.S. SENATE MAJORITY WILL BE DECIDED no earlier than Jan. 5, due to scheduled runoffs in both Georgia races. As of 6:30 p.m., Alaska and one of North Carolina's races were not yet called. Both races lean toward the Republican candidate. If either of Georgia's races is decided for the Republican candidate, the Senate will likely retain a Republican majority. Hawaiʻi held no U.S. Senate races this year.
Sen. Brian Schatz tweeted today: "These Georgia Senate races will determine whether or not we can pass a new Voting Rights Act. These two Georgia Senate races will determine whether we are going to preserve ACA and protect people w pre-existing conditions if and when the SCOTUS trashes the health care law. These upcoming Georgia Senate races will determine whether or not Mitch McConnell has a veto over the Biden cabinet.
"I'm not going to tolerate anyone suddenly finding their inner fiscal discipline now that Biden is President Elect. We need major investments to help businesses and families come out the other side of this. Policy should be expansionary for economic, moral, and health reasons. *I really enjoyed typing the words 'now that Biden is President Elect.'"
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.
POLICE WILL USE BODY WORN CAMERAS on Hawaiʻi Island beginning Monday, Nov. 9. Hawaiʻi Police Department will roll out the new equipment in South Hilo, Kona, and Puna districts. The entire island is expected to be outfitted before the end of 2020, says an announcement from HPD. "We are enthusiastic to be able to enter a new era of technology with a tool that will assist us in making both the Community and the Department a better place to work and live in."
HPD released a list of frequently asked questions: What are Body Worn Cameras and what are they for? BWC's are small cameras that an officer wears on their body. They record interactions between the officer and community members (e.g., the public, victims, and suspects). Recordings from BWC's can be used to demonstrate transparency to the public; document statements, observations, behaviors, and other things officers may witness; and it can also help deter unprofessional, illegal and inappropriate actions by both law enforcement and the public.
NEW WAYFINDING SIGNS are up at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. The 31 new signs were funded by Friends of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park and the National Park Foundation. Visitors who explore the summit of Kīlauea can now learn about the 2018 eruption and navigate their way between destinations on the volcano with the help of the signs.
Many of the new signs share Hawaiian place names and directions to trails and volcanic features, like steam vents and sulfur deposits. Others include models of Kaluapele (Kīlauea caldera) that reveal the geologic changes to the summit area over time.
The signs were designed and installed by staff and volunteers on the Park's Interpretation & Education team. They are strategically placed around the summit of Kīlauea and on the Kīlauea Visitor Center lānai. A new upright orientation sign will soon be installed at the Kahuku Unit, with information about the eight trails, a map and other useful information, bringing the total number of new park signs to 31.
Beginning in May 2018, the park and Kīlauea summit underwent a major change as magma drained from the chamber beneath Halema‘uma‘u Crater, and the caldera began to collapse, triggering 60,000 strong earthquakes and clouds of rock and ash that continued until early August 2018. The seismic activity was primarily centered near the crater, and significantly impacted Jaggar Museum and the USGS-operated Reginald T. Okamura facility, which remain closed today. While most of the Park has reopened, the 2018 eruption and caldera collapse were the most destructive eruptive events in Hawai‘i in the last two centuries.
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park Acting Superintendent Rhonda Loh said, "We think everyone from first-time visitors to long-time park devotees will be as pleased as we are with the beautiful new signs and the information that they convey. We deeply appreciate the support from Friends and the National Park Foundation to fund the project."
Friends of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park President and CEO, Elizabeth Fien, said, "This project fits perfectly with our core mission. Having current signage in the park reduces visitor confusion and provides opportunities to learn about the momentous events of 2018 and how Kīlauea changed the park."
See nps.gov.
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DOH recommends all members of the public pay close attention to the number and rate of COVID-19 cases on-island or in the community to determine whether to hold a holiday gathering.
Lowest risk holiday festivities, says HPD, include virtual-only activities, events, and gatherings. "Modern technology is a great way to stay emotionally close when we're physically distant."
More risky festivities include small outdoor and in-person gatherings, in which individuals from different households remain spaced at least six feet apart. Participants should wear masks and come from the same local area. Do not share objects, or hug or kiss.
Highest risk festive activities include large in-person gatherings where it is difficult for individuals to remain spaced at least six feet apart, and people hug or otherwise touch. The risk is increased further if attendees come from different communities, towns, cities or counties.
Safe recommendations include celebrating outside, keeping distance with those from different households, including not kissing, hugging or touching; keeping gatherings small; serve food safely by providing individually packaged meals or bentos; and posting reminder signs: "Include messages about showing aloha without hugs and kisses, and protecting kūpuna by giving them space."
See https://hawaiicovid19.com/safe-gatherings/.
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| Body Worn Cameras come to Hawaiʻi Island on Monday. |
HPD released a list of frequently asked questions: What are Body Worn Cameras and what are they for? BWC's are small cameras that an officer wears on their body. They record interactions between the officer and community members (e.g., the public, victims, and suspects). Recordings from BWC's can be used to demonstrate transparency to the public; document statements, observations, behaviors, and other things officers may witness; and it can also help deter unprofessional, illegal and inappropriate actions by both law enforcement and the public.
What kind of cameras will be in use? The Department will be using the Axon Body 2, a camera that is in use by many agencies across the nation. The camera will capture 720p HD (high definition) video.
Who will be wearing these cameras and when will they be using them? All HPD uniformed Patrol Officers, Community Policing Officers, and Traffic Enforcement Units will receive them. Officers will activate them when they have contact with the public in a Law Enforcement capacity such as on traffic stops, during arrests, or any call they are assigned to respond to. They will stop the recording once they are done with that incident.
What if I call an officer to my house to report something? I don't want them filming inside my house. Officers have received training on and will use their discretion in instances where a victim requests not to be on camera and may turn it off if asked. However, if the situation requires their taking law enforcement action, the camera will be on.
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If I was involved in an incident and the officer took footage during that encounter, can I have the video?
All formal requests for videos can be made to the Police Chief's Office. While it is not a guarantee of receiving the video, all requests will be considered and weighed. It is the goal of the Department to enter this new era of technology working with its community to ensure it becomes a safer place to work and live.
How long are videos kept?
All HPD BWC videos will be kept for a minimum of two years. Videos that are tied to or associated with a case will be kept for as long as is necessary until the case is adjudicated.
Send comments and questions to copsysop@hawaiicounty.gov.
What if I call an officer to my house to report something? I don't want them filming inside my house. Officers have received training on and will use their discretion in instances where a victim requests not to be on camera and may turn it off if asked. However, if the situation requires their taking law enforcement action, the camera will be on.
All formal requests for videos can be made to the Police Chief's Office. While it is not a guarantee of receiving the video, all requests will be considered and weighed. It is the goal of the Department to enter this new era of technology working with its community to ensure it becomes a safer place to work and live.
How long are videos kept?
All HPD BWC videos will be kept for a minimum of two years. Videos that are tied to or associated with a case will be kept for as long as is necessary until the case is adjudicated.
Send comments and questions to copsysop@hawaiicounty.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.
AN EXPANDED COVID-19 DASHBOARD was released last week. A collaboration of Hawaiʻi Emergency Management Agency and Department of Health, the dashboard updates daily at 3 p.m. It provides access to daily COVID-19 case counts, seven-day case averages, positivity rates, and the number of deaths caused by COVID-19. It also features a county-by-county summary of hospital resources, including the availability of ICU beds and ventilators. The expanded dashboard is accessible on mobile devices.
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| See the state's expanded COVID dashboard. |
HI-EMA Administrator Luke Meyers said, "In addition to virus data, this new COVID-19 dashboard will provide a single site where users can find data on Hawaiʻi's economy, as well as additional information on travel, tourism and how hospitals are coping with the pandemic." HI-EMA will maintain and update the dashboard, which launched in early September, with content provided by DOH and its partners in the medical profession.
DOH Director Libby Char said, "What began as a health dashboard is now evolving and maturing as we continue our fight against COVID-19. Measuring our progress, preparing, and planning for our entire state involves much more than counting positive cases. We appreciate HI-EMA's work to enhance and maintain the data dashboard."
View the new dashboard at hawaiicovid19.com/dashboard/.
DOH Director Libby Char said, "What began as a health dashboard is now evolving and maturing as we continue our fight against COVID-19. Measuring our progress, preparing, and planning for our entire state involves much more than counting positive cases. We appreciate HI-EMA's work to enhance and maintain the data dashboard."
View the new dashboard at hawaiicovid19.com/dashboard/.
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.
NEW WAYFINDING SIGNS are up at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. The 31 new signs were funded by Friends of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park and the National Park Foundation. Visitors who explore the summit of Kīlauea can now learn about the 2018 eruption and navigate their way between destinations on the volcano with the help of the signs.
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| Friends of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park President & CEO Elizabeth Fien (left) and Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park acting Superintendent Rhonda Loh check out the new orientation signs on the Kīlauea Visitor Center lānai. NPS Photo/Janice Wei |
The signs were designed and installed by staff and volunteers on the Park's Interpretation & Education team. They are strategically placed around the summit of Kīlauea and on the Kīlauea Visitor Center lānai. A new upright orientation sign will soon be installed at the Kahuku Unit, with information about the eight trails, a map and other useful information, bringing the total number of new park signs to 31.
Beginning in May 2018, the park and Kīlauea summit underwent a major change as magma drained from the chamber beneath Halema‘uma‘u Crater, and the caldera began to collapse, triggering 60,000 strong earthquakes and clouds of rock and ash that continued until early August 2018. The seismic activity was primarily centered near the crater, and significantly impacted Jaggar Museum and the USGS-operated Reginald T. Okamura facility, which remain closed today. While most of the Park has reopened, the 2018 eruption and caldera collapse were the most destructive eruptive events in Hawai‘i in the last two centuries.
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park Acting Superintendent Rhonda Loh said, "We think everyone from first-time visitors to long-time park devotees will be as pleased as we are with the beautiful new signs and the information that they convey. We deeply appreciate the support from Friends and the National Park Foundation to fund the project."
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| One of the new wayfinding signs around Kīlauea summit. Pictured: Elizabeth Fien, President & CEO of Friends of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park (front/center); Chief of Interpretation Ben Hayes (right); park volunteer George Jensen (back) and visual information specialist Andrew LaValle (left). NPS Photo/Janice Wei |
See nps.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.
GUIDANCE ON HEALTH PRECAUTIONS DURING THE HOLIDAYS are issued by Hawaiʻi Department of Health: "This year, your ‘ohana's health and safety is the top priority. In Hawaiʻi, the holidays typically are a time to welcome home family members who have been away at school or host visiting friends. Unfortunately, the holiday merriment and festivities we crave are among the highest-risk scenarios for transmitting COVID-19. It’s important to keep everyone safe, especially vulnerable family members, and avoid overburdening healthcare professionals and hospitals."
Dr. Elizabeth Char, director of health, says, "We will soon enter six weeks of the holiday season, between Thanksgiving and New Year's. If we celebrate as we always have, Hawaiʻi will see another dangerous rise in cases. We must avoid 'superspreader' events, especially if infection rates and case counts surge in our state. We all need to remain vigilant to protect our island home by avoiding large indoor gatherings, dinners or parties."
DOH recommends all members of the public pay close attention to the number and rate of COVID-19 cases on-island or in the community to determine whether to hold a holiday gathering.
Lowest risk holiday festivities, says HPD, include virtual-only activities, events, and gatherings. "Modern technology is a great way to stay emotionally close when we're physically distant."
More risky festivities include small outdoor and in-person gatherings, in which individuals from different households remain spaced at least six feet apart. Participants should wear masks and come from the same local area. Do not share objects, or hug or kiss.
Highest risk festive activities include large in-person gatherings where it is difficult for individuals to remain spaced at least six feet apart, and people hug or otherwise touch. The risk is increased further if attendees come from different communities, towns, cities or counties.
Safe recommendations include celebrating outside, keeping distance with those from different households, including not kissing, hugging or touching; keeping gatherings small; serve food safely by providing individually packaged meals or bentos; and posting reminder signs: "Include messages about showing aloha without hugs and kisses, and protecting kūpuna by giving them space."
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| Kaʻū Hospital's Activity Coordinator, Jessica Camba-Penera, and Recreational Aides Justie Wroblewski and Brenda Martin, receive a shave ice machine from OKK. |
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.
VIETNAM VETERAN WAYNE KAWACHI, president of OKK, encourages veterans and the public to come to ʻO Kaʻū Kākou's market in Nāʻālehu on Wednesday, Nov. 11 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., to celebrate Veteran's Day. The community organization offers free watermelon to all attendees and a $15 voucher for every veteran in attendance, to purchase lunch from market vendors. Musical entertainment is also provided. Limited chairs available – first-come, first served – so bring chairs if need. The market will be operating as usual.
OKK recently donated shave ice machines to Ka’u Hospital and Okutsu State Veterans Home OKK has also been donating food, such as fresh fish, staples and snacks and drinks, to individuals in Kaʻū and frontline workers. Kawachi and others have gone fishing and donated their catch to kūpuna. They have given hot meals, coffee, and more since the pandemic began.
VIETNAM VETERAN WAYNE KAWACHI, president of OKK, encourages veterans and the public to come to ʻO Kaʻū Kākou's market in Nāʻālehu on Wednesday, Nov. 11 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., to celebrate Veteran's Day. The community organization offers free watermelon to all attendees and a $15 voucher for every veteran in attendance, to purchase lunch from market vendors. Musical entertainment is also provided. Limited chairs available – first-come, first served – so bring chairs if need. The market will be operating as usual.
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| Stacyn Sakuma, left, whose home town is Pāhala, and staff member at Yukio Okustu State Veterans Home, receive a shave ice machine from OKK. |
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.
THIS TIME LAST YEAR, Kaʻū Coffee industry representatives were headed for the Taiwan International Coffee Show. Miranda's Coffee was featured in the presentation by Islander Hawaiʻi Coffee, which released a video in Mandarin Chinese, featuring the Miranda family on their Kaʻū farm. The convention was held at the Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center.
In addition, Kaʻū Coffee broker Chris Manfredi, President of the Hawaiʻi Coffee Association, and Ralph Gaston, of Rusty's 100% Kaʻū Coffee, represented Hawaiʻi Coffee Growers from throughout the state. Madeline Longorio Garcia, who worked for Kaʻū Coffee growers and often makes presentations at the Kaʻū Coffee Festival, also attended. She was named as the new Community Coordinator for the Specialty Coffee Association of America in 2019.
See the Islander Hawaiian Coffee Video at islander-select.com.
The Kaʻū Coffee Festival also announced its annual event from May 8-17, which was ultimately canceled due to the pandemic.
The 2020 festival was to feature a free Paʻina Open House at Pāhala Plantation House, Kaʻū Mountain, a tour of Kaʻū Valley Farms, Kaʻū Coffee & Cattle Day, stargazing at Kaʻū Coffee Mill, the Hoʻolauleʻa at Pāhala Community Center, Kaʻū Coffee College, Kaʻū Coffee Pageant and the Kaʻū Coffee Recipe Contest.
See kaucoffeefestival.com/events.
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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Basics of Mushroom Cultivation with Zach Mermel, Saturday, Nov. 14, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222
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Kokua Services will help with virtual appointments through the Certified Assisters above.
Homeowners, Apply for Affordable Rental Housing Tax Reduction through Dec. 31. Application, requirements and benefits are at hawaiipropertytax.com/misc.html or call the county Real Property Tax office at 961-8201 or 323-4880.
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COVID-19 Talk Story on Nā Leo TV series aims to help deliver accurate and current information to Hawaiʻi Island residents. Airs live Thursdays at 10 a.m. on Spectrum Channel 53, online at naleo.tv/channel-53/, streaming on Nā Leo's free mobile app, and on-demand at naleo.tv/covid19.
St. Jude's Episcopal Church services and worship are posted online at stjudeshawaii.org. Join the Aloha Hour via Zoom at 11 a.m. on Sundays, here, Meeting ID: 684 344 9828, Password: Aloha. Weekly hot meals, hot showers, the computer lab, and in-person services and bible studies are suspended.
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Ocean View Community Market, open Saturdays and Wednesdays, 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. , on the corner of Kona Drive and Highway 11, where Thai Grindz is located. Managed by Mark Cocucci. Masks mandatory. 100-person limit, social distancing required. Gate unlocked for vendors at 5:30 a.m., $15 dollars, no reservations needed. Parking in upper lot only. Vendors must provide own sanitizer. Food vendor permits required. Carpooling encouraged.
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Ocean View Swap Meet 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.
Volcano Art Center Volcano Village
Read Report on Public Input about Disaster Recovery from damage during the 2018 Kīlauea eruption. View the Civic Engagement and Comment Analysis Report here.
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FOOD
Food Pickup through Hope DIA-mend Ministries, weekdays, 5 p.m. in the Ace parking lot in Ocean View and lunches on Mondays. In Nāʻālehu, meals distributed in front of old Nāʻālehu Theatre at 4 p.m.
Program to Sell Produce and Meats on Hawaiʻi Island from commercial farmers and livestock producers on Hawai‘i Island for distribution to families in need. Learn more.
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Native Hawaiian Farmers and Ranchers urged to use U.S. Dept. of Ag On-Farm Market Directory. Visit the program website.
Read About Seed Biodiversity for Hawaiʻi's Local Food System in It all Begins...and Ends with Seed, where Education and Outreach Coordinator Nancy Redfeather shares her insights. Read the blog.
Find Rangeland Management Resources at globalrangelands.org/state/hawaii. Subscribe to the newsletter to receive updates.
THE U.S. REPORTED MORE THAN 100,000 COVID CASES for the fifth day in the last nine days, at 111,900. The cumulative COVID-19 case count in the U.S. is more than 9,961,320 – about 19.5 percent of worldwide cases. The death toll is more than 237,566 – about 19 percent of worldwide deaths.
The worldwide cumulative COVID count surpassed 50 million today. The death toll is more than 1,255,250.
Hawaiʻi Island reports 19 new COVID cases today. The average daily case count for Hawaiʻi Island is 7.4. There are at least 10 people hospitalized on Hawaiʻi Island with the virus.
The worldwide cumulative COVID count surpassed 50 million today. The death toll is more than 1,255,250.
Hawaiʻi Island reports 19 new COVID cases today. The average daily case count for Hawaiʻi Island is 7.4. There are at least 10 people hospitalized on Hawaiʻi Island with the virus.
New cases reported statewide today total 128, with 106 on Oʻahu, two on Maui, and one resident diagnosed out-of-state.
Since the pandemic began, 48 deaths have been reported on Hawaiʻi Island by Hawaiʻi Civil Defense. At least 221 people have died in the state, according to state records, one new today.
Since the pandemic began, 48 deaths have been reported on Hawaiʻi Island by Hawaiʻi Civil Defense. At least 221 people have died in the state, according to state records, one new today.
Since the pandemic began, there have been 15,947 total COVID cases in the state. Oʻahu has reported 13,810 total cases, Maui 425, Lanaʻi 106, Molokaʻi 17, and Kauaʻi 71. Residents diagnosed while out-of-state, 113. Statewide, 1,161 people have been hospitalized since the pandemic began.
No new cases have been reported in the last 28 days for Volcano zip codes 96785 and 96718, and Kaʻū zip codes 96772 and 96777. In the last 28 days, less than ten active cases have been reported in Kaʻū zip code 96737, and 96704, which includes Miloliʻi.
In the last 28 days, in Hilo zip code 96720, 23 cases have been reported in the last 28 days. In Kona zip code 96740, 85 cases have been reported in the last 28 days. In zip code 96743 – which includes Waikoloa, Kawaihae, Waimea, Puako, Waikui, and Akona – 15 cases have been reported in the last 28 days. In Pepeʻekeo zip code 96783, 13 cases have been reported in the last 28 days.
Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense said today, "Hawaiʻi Island has seen an increase of positive cases in recent weeks. Most of these recent cases are not travel related which means the virus is being transmitted within the community. Data from the Department of Health shows the majority of these cases have been identified as West Hawaiʻi based. Due to this data, increased testing, especially in the Kona area is being scheduled. Remember the purpose of testing is to identify positive cases as early as possible and in this way help stop the spread of the coronavirus. By getting tested know that you are helping stop the spread of this virus.
"This high increase of the coronavirus is of great concern and demonstrates the critical need for you to follow the preventive policies of face coverings, distancing and gatherings. Know that the preventive policies are mandated and the Hawaiʻi Police Department will continue the enforcement of these policies."
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Onset of COVID-19 cases in the last 28 days, by zip code. Gray areas have populations less than 1,000. White is zero cases. Yellow is one to 10 cases. Light orange is 11-50 cases. Dark orange is 51-200 cases. Department of Health map |
In the last 28 days, in Hilo zip code 96720, 23 cases have been reported in the last 28 days. In Kona zip code 96740, 85 cases have been reported in the last 28 days. In zip code 96743 – which includes Waikoloa, Kawaihae, Waimea, Puako, Waikui, and Akona – 15 cases have been reported in the last 28 days. In Pepeʻekeo zip code 96783, 13 cases have been reported in the last 28 days.
Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense said today, "Hawaiʻi Island has seen an increase of positive cases in recent weeks. Most of these recent cases are not travel related which means the virus is being transmitted within the community. Data from the Department of Health shows the majority of these cases have been identified as West Hawaiʻi based. Due to this data, increased testing, especially in the Kona area is being scheduled. Remember the purpose of testing is to identify positive cases as early as possible and in this way help stop the spread of the coronavirus. By getting tested know that you are helping stop the spread of this virus.
"This high increase of the coronavirus is of great concern and demonstrates the critical need for you to follow the preventive policies of face coverings, distancing and gatherings. Know that the preventive policies are mandated and the Hawaiʻi Police Department will continue the enforcement of these policies."
See the Hawaiʻi County COVID-19 webpage. Report violators of COVID-19 safety protocols or quarantine to non-emergency at 935-3311. Hawaiʻi Island police continue enforcement of preventative policies.
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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Berta Miranda and family are featured in the Taiwan International Coffee Show's promotional film. Photo from Islander Hawaiian Coffee |
Kaʻū Life: The Way We Were Last Year
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| Kaʻū Coffee was featured at the Taiwan International Coffee Show last year. Photo from Islander Hawaiian Coffee |
See the Islander Hawaiian Coffee Video at islander-select.com.
The Kaʻū Coffee Festival also announced its annual event from May 8-17, which was ultimately canceled due to the pandemic.
The 2020 festival was to feature a free Paʻina Open House at Pāhala Plantation House, Kaʻū Mountain, a tour of Kaʻū Valley Farms, Kaʻū Coffee & Cattle Day, stargazing at Kaʻū Coffee Mill, the Hoʻolauleʻa at Pāhala Community Center, Kaʻū Coffee College, Kaʻū Coffee Pageant and the Kaʻū Coffee Recipe Contest.
See kaucoffeefestival.com/events.
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Enthusiasm for living and working in Kaʻū Coffee is expressed in the Islander Hawaiian Coffee video. |
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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
AdvoCATS Free Spay and Neuter Clinic will be held Wednesday, Nov. 11 at Ocean View Community Center. To make a reservation, to reserve traps, to volunteer, or with questions, e-mail Cindy Thurston at cindyt@hawaii.rr.com, or call or text (808) 895-9283. See advocatshawaii.org.
Celebrate Veterans at ʻO Kaʻū Kākou's Market in Nāʻālehu on Wednesday, Nov. 11 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free watermelon for all attendees. Veterans receive a $15 voucher to purchase lunch from market vendors. Musical entertainment provided. Limited chairs available; bring chairs if need. Market will operate as usual.
Celebrate Veterans at ʻO Kaʻū Kākou's Market in Nāʻālehu on Wednesday, Nov. 11 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free watermelon for all attendees. Veterans receive a $15 voucher to purchase lunch from market vendors. Musical entertainment provided. Limited chairs available; bring chairs if need. Market will operate as usual.
Veterans Day Ceremony and Dinner, Kīlauea Military Camp, Wednesday, Nov. 11. Ceremony held live on KMC Facebook page at 3 p.m. Veterans Day Dinner at Crater Rim Café, located in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Reservations required, limited number of complimentary meals available. Call 967-8371 for either Dine-In or Grab & Go.
Menu: prime rib au jus, vegetable stir fry & black bean sauce, roasted red potatoes, cheesecake, and drink. Adults $26.95, $16.95 Vegetarian Option (w/o prime rib), children 6-11 years old, $14.95. Proof of eligibility (Military ID, DD214 with photo ID, 100% DAV, or Hawaiʻi Veterans driver license) required to receive complimentary meal. Face coverings and 6 feet distancing required in common areas. KMC open to all authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply.
Introduction to Beadweaving, new series of beading classes with Phyllis Cullen, begins Thursday, Nov. 12, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222
Kaʻū Art Gallery First Annual Holiday Arts & Crafts Sale, Saturday, Nov. 14, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Kaʻū Art Gallery (behind Ace, across from Punaluʻu Bakery, in Nāʻālehu – the old Kamaʻaina Cuts building). Free admission, face masks required for all. Contact organizer Corrine Kaupu at 808-937-1840 or kauartgallery@hawaiiantel.biz to vend.
Second Saturday in Volcano Village on Nov. 14 features Volcano Art Center, volcanoartcenter.org, with choice of BBQ baby back ribs or half a chicken, with sides of corn on the cob and baked beans, for $20 per plate. Pre-order on Volcano Art Center's website. All orders are grab-and-go. Pre-orders drive by at VAC's Niʻaulani Campus, tickets will be available day of event. Cash and credit cards accepted. Kīlauea Lodge Restaurant, will have all-day comfort food, for both curbside take-out and dine-in, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Volcano Garden Arts, volcanogardenarts.com, & Café Ono, cafeono.net, will be serving special plate lunches. Jewelry designer Suzie Cousins will be showcasing her collections of wearable art and demonstrating some of her techniques. See experiencevolcano.com.
Hawaiʻi Wildlife Fund Public Cleanup Events Sunday, Nov. 15, cleanup and survey; and Saturday, Dec. 19, cleanup. Group sizes limited due to COVID-19 precautions and government proclamations. HWF says details are forthcoming but will be a blend of hiking, BYO-4wd, and limited HWF carpool options. Contact Megan Lamson-Leatherman at (808) 280-8124 or wild@aloha.net.
Hawaiʻi Farmers Union United Annual Meeting, Sunday, Nov. 15, 9 a.m. via Zoom, meeting code 450 691 6693. No password. Attend by phone at (669) 900-6833, code 450 691 6693#. Delegates elect HFUU president, and adopt policies and bylaw amendments. Nominations for president due at meeting; send to Nominations Committee Chair, David S. Case, at casedavids@gmail.com. Review and comment on proposals. Enjoy world-class educational and musical presentations Nov. 12, 13, and 14. See hfuuhi.org.
Attend virtual workshops: Virtual: Carbon Market Information Expo will be held Tuesday, Nov. 10 at 4 p.m. Essential Resources for Essential Workers will be held Thursday, Nov. 12 at 4 p.m. The Squeeze Chute - Examining Market Concentration in our Fragile Food System(s) will be held Tuesday, Nov. 17 at 4 p.m.
Hawaii Theatre will offer a SHOP LOCAL items for sale page. Vendors must be registered for the convention in order to sell items on the SHOP LOCAL page. By submitting a request to publish the information and sell the item, sellers agree that 15 percent of the total sale will be retained as a commission and 4 percent will be retained to cover transaction fees by Hawaiʻi Theatre Center. Sellers must include shipping and handling, and 4.167% GET, in the cost for the item. Sellers are responsible for shipping items to purchasers and paying GET. Hawaiʻi Theatre will provide sellers with the purchaser's shipping information within 24 hours of purchase. Use this link to enter each individual item for sale.
Registered for the convention at hfuu.org.
Attend virtual workshops: Virtual: Carbon Market Information Expo will be held Tuesday, Nov. 10 at 4 p.m. Essential Resources for Essential Workers will be held Thursday, Nov. 12 at 4 p.m. The Squeeze Chute - Examining Market Concentration in our Fragile Food System(s) will be held Tuesday, Nov. 17 at 4 p.m.
Hawaii Theatre will offer a SHOP LOCAL items for sale page. Vendors must be registered for the convention in order to sell items on the SHOP LOCAL page. By submitting a request to publish the information and sell the item, sellers agree that 15 percent of the total sale will be retained as a commission and 4 percent will be retained to cover transaction fees by Hawaiʻi Theatre Center. Sellers must include shipping and handling, and 4.167% GET, in the cost for the item. Sellers are responsible for shipping items to purchasers and paying GET. Hawaiʻi Theatre will provide sellers with the purchaser's shipping information within 24 hours of purchase. Use this link to enter each individual item for sale.
Registered for the convention at hfuu.org.
Kīlauea Military Camp Thanksgiving Dinner, Dine-In or Grab-and-Go, for Thursday, Nov. 26 – order by Monday, Nov. 16. Choice of turkey or ham, stuffing, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, gravy, sweet potatoes, corn on the cob, salad, pumpkin squares. $19.95 adults, $12.95 6-11 yrs old for Dine-In. Turkey dinner to go, $59.95. Ham dinner to go, $69.95. Call 808-967-8356.
Veteran Farmers can register for virtual Farmer Veteran Coalition Conference: Veterans Farming through Adversity held Nov. 18 and 19, Wednesday and Thursday. Features education, workshops, keynote speakers, panel discussions, networking opportunities, and more. $45 ($35 for coalition members). Advance registration required.
Beadweaving in the Round with Phyllis Cullen, Thursday, Nov. 19, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222
Christmas in the Country 21st Annual Wreath Exhibition opens Saturday, Nov. 21 through Thursday, Dec. 31 at Volcano Art Center Gallery in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222
Christmas in the Country 21st Annual Wreath Exhibition opens Saturday, Nov. 21 through Thursday, Dec. 31 at Volcano Art Center Gallery in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222
Paint Your Own Silk Scarf workshop with Patti Pease Johnson, Saturday, Nov. 21, 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222
Small Businesses and Nonprofits can Apply for Reimbursement Grants through the Business Pivot Program to cover expenses up to $10,000 that they incurred implementing changes to their operations, products, and services. Grant application open until Nov. 23, as funds are available. Click here for eligibility requirements and to apply. Click here for frequently asked questions.
Holiday Open House at Volcano Art Center Niʻaulani Campus in Volcano Village, Friday, Nov. 27, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Enjoy viewing of handmade wreaths, cider, music, door prizes, and gifts. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222
Volcano Garden Arts' Think X-Mas! Exquisite Gift Sale, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, Nov. 27, 28, and 29 features special plate lunch at Cafe Ono. Held at 19-3834 Old Volcano Rd. See ShopVGA.net, CafeOno.net, and VolcanoGardenArts.com.
Hawaiian Islands Challenge Virtual Run through Dec. 31. Registration closes Nov. 30. Individuals or teams can register to traverse some or all of 808 kilometers on six different courses, one on each main island. Register here.
Renew or Apply for Membership in Experience Volcano Hawaiʻi for $20 until Nov. 30. Details available at experiencevolcano.com/2020special. Membership offers perks such as free 25-word classified ads in the newsletter. Buy, sell, trade or donate. Members can send ads to experiencevolcano@gmail.com. Deadline is the 15th of the month. Ads will publish until canceled. No artwork or logos allowed.
Give Input on Cleaning up the Former Quarry Firing Range in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Engineering evaluation and cost analysis will address surface soils impacted with heavy metals. The EE/CA document is available through Dec. 1. Executive Summary of the EE/CA and the Community Involvement Plan are available online at parkplanning.nps.gov/projectHome.cfm?parkId=307&projectID=92898. View them in person, by appointment only – call 808-985-6073 – at Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park Headquarters Building, 1 Crater Rim Drive, in the Park, weekdays, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Electronically submit comments via the website above or writing to Ms. Danielle Foster at danielle_foster@nps.gov or Environmental Protection Specialist, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, P.O. Box 52, Hawaiʻi National Park, HI 96718.
Give Input on Cleaning up the Former Quarry Firing Range in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Engineering evaluation and cost analysis will address surface soils impacted with heavy metals. The EE/CA document is available through Dec. 1. Executive Summary of the EE/CA and the Community Involvement Plan are available online at parkplanning.nps.gov/projectHome.cfm?parkId=307&projectID=92898. View them in person, by appointment only – call 808-985-6073 – at Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park Headquarters Building, 1 Crater Rim Drive, in the Park, weekdays, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Electronically submit comments via the website above or writing to Ms. Danielle Foster at danielle_foster@nps.gov or Environmental Protection Specialist, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, P.O. Box 52, Hawaiʻi National Park, HI 96718.
Receive Help Signing Up for Med-Quest Health Insurance via nonprofit organizations starting Sunday through Dec. 15. Local contacts through the community organization Kalanihale include Kaʻimi Kaupilo, of Miloliʻi, who can be reached at 808-937-1310 and Donna Kekoa, of Pāhala, at 808-769-1334.
The state's Med-Quest provides eligible low-income adults and children access to health and medical coverage through managed care plans.
Island of Hawaiʻi YMCA helps through Shon Araujo at 808-854-0152 and Carrie Fernandez at 808-854-0256. West Hawaiʻi Community Center assists through Beonka Snyder at 808-327-0803, Tina Evans at 808-640-8587, Charles Kelen at 808-491-9761, and Walter Lanw at 808-785-8201. Hawaiʻi Island HIV/AIDS Foundation helps through Rachelle Hanohano at 808-896-5051, Paul Thome at 858-876-5154, Melani Matsumoto at 808-854-1877, and Jennifer Reno-Medeiros at 808-333-6443.
The state's Med-Quest provides eligible low-income adults and children access to health and medical coverage through managed care plans.
Island of Hawaiʻi YMCA helps through Shon Araujo at 808-854-0152 and Carrie Fernandez at 808-854-0256. West Hawaiʻi Community Center assists through Beonka Snyder at 808-327-0803, Tina Evans at 808-640-8587, Charles Kelen at 808-491-9761, and Walter Lanw at 808-785-8201. Hawaiʻi Island HIV/AIDS Foundation helps through Rachelle Hanohano at 808-896-5051, Paul Thome at 858-876-5154, Melani Matsumoto at 808-854-1877, and Jennifer Reno-Medeiros at 808-333-6443.
Homeowners, Apply for Affordable Rental Housing Tax Reduction through Dec. 31. Application, requirements and benefits are at hawaiipropertytax.com/misc.html or call the county Real Property Tax office at 961-8201 or 323-4880.
ONGOING
COMMUNITY
New Operating Hours for Wai‘ōhinu Transfer Station are Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Recycling services available 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. HI-5 deposit beverage container collection Saturdays only, 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. "White goods" appliance collection services will accept one appliance per resident per day. Customers need to check in with the facility attendant before dropping an appliance off at the facility. No unattended drop-offs allowed. Visit hawaiizerowaste.org website or call 961-8270.
New Operating Hours for Ocean View Transfer Station are Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. HI-5 deposit beverage container collection will continue as usual on Saturdays only, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Visit hawaiizerowaste.org website or call 961-8270.
New Operating Hours for Ocean View Transfer Station are Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. HI-5 deposit beverage container collection will continue as usual on Saturdays only, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Visit hawaiizerowaste.org website or call 961-8270.
Sign Up for Solid Waste Operations Alerts here for site closures, availability of services, hours of operation, special conditions affecting solid waste service (such as road closures, flooding, fires), or special events, such as household hazardous waste collections.
Nominate Businesses that Provide Excellent COVID-19 Safety Precautions for a Gold Star. Submit nominations to County of Hawaiʻi Department of Research and Development here. Find help for small businesses here.
Attend Sunday Drive-In Worship Service at Waiʻōhinu's Kauahaʻao Congregational Church. Parking on the lawn begins at 10 a.m. , with Worship Service starting at 10:10 a.m. Face coverings required when usher comes to vehicle to pass out worship bulletin and other materials, and at the same time, collect any offering or gifts the individual(s) would like to give, or when leaving vehicles for the restroom. Church provides paper fans to stay cool. Bring water. Catch the live-streamed service at 10:10 a.m. and Praise Jam, which runs from 9:15 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. Service is emailed Sunday afternoon to anyone on the email list. Sign up by emailing atdwongyuen.kauahaaochurch@gmail.com or call 928-8039 or 937-2155.
St. Jude's Episcopal Church services and worship are posted online at stjudeshawaii.org. Join the Aloha Hour via Zoom at 11 a.m. on Sundays, here, Meeting ID: 684 344 9828, Password: Aloha. Weekly hot meals, hot showers, the computer lab, and in-person services and bible studies are suspended.
ʻO Kaʻū Kākou Market, in Nāʻālehu, open Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday, 8 a.m. to noon . Limit of 50 customers, 25 vendor booths, with 30 feet of space between vendors. Masks and hand sanitizing are required, social distancing enforced. Contact Sue Barnett, OKK Market Manager, at 808-345-9374 (voice or text) or kaufarmer@aol.com for more and to apply to vend. facebook.com/OKauKakouMarket
Volcano Farmers Market, Cooper Center, Volcano Village, open on Sundays from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m., with much local produce, island beef, and prepared foods. Call 808-967-7800.
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. For more information on joining the SGM Workgroup, email Thaddeus Pham at thaddeus.pham@doh.hawaii.gov. See health.hawaii.gov.
Read Report on Public Input about Disaster Recovery from damage during the 2018 Kīlauea eruption. View the Civic Engagement and Comment Analysis Report here.
One-Time Emergency Food For Pets is available through KARES. Call David or Barbara Breskin at 319-8333.
Food Pickup through Hope DIA-mend Ministries, weekdays, 5 p.m. in the Ace parking lot in Ocean View and lunches on Mondays. In Nāʻālehu, meals distributed in front of old Nāʻālehu Theatre at 4 p.m.
Emergency Boxes Available at Cooper Center Tuesday through Saturday 8 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. Call ahead, 967-7800.
FINANCES
Apply for Utility Assistance, to pay for electricity, non-government water, or gas. Applicants must be a Hawaiʻi Island resident, at least 18 years old, lost income or work hours due to COVID-19, and not previously received assistance from other COVID-19 federal or state-funded programs. Funded by CARES Act and distributed by Hawaiʻi County Economic Opportunity Council, required documents for application are government-issued identification, income verification documents for all household members, utility statement with address of services, lease/rental agreement or mortgage document, and proof of hardship. Hardship may include, but not limited to, pay stubs documenting pre-COVID-19 income, unemployment approval letter, or layoff letter. Apply at HCEOC.net or call 808-961-2681.
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Apply for Expanded Hawaiʻi County Rent and Mortgage Assistance Program. RMAP partners encourage Hawaiʻi Island residents who are at least 18 years old and lost income or work hours due to COVID-19, including quitting or reduced hours to provide childcare, may be eligible for up to $2,000 per month for rent, lease, or mortgage payments. Payments made directly to landlords, property managers, or mortgage lenders. Approved applicants also have access to financial counseling services.
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Apply for Holomua Hawaiʻi Relief Grants for small businesses and nonprofits of up to $10,000 to support core operations, safe on-going and reopening costs, personal protective equipment, and training and technical assistance. The business or nonprofit must employ 50 people or fewer. See the program website.
Attend Weekly Virtual Town Meetings, hosted by Kaʻū High & Pāhala Elementary, on Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m. Discussion topics include attendance, best practices, Grab-n-Go meals, school updates, questions and feedback, and more. Go to KHPES website for Live WebEx link.
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Register for Boys & Girls Club Mobile Outreach and Tutoring Programs here. Registration does not guarantee a spot in the program. A staff member will reach out to eligible families for keiki grades 1-6, to complete the registration process. Questions? Contact Boys & Girls Club of the Big Island Administrative Office, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at (808) 961-5536 or email mobiletutoring@bgcbi.org or info@bgcbi.org.
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HEALTH
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Guided Nature Walks through Nature Trail & Sculpture Garden, Mondays, 9:30 a.m. at Volcano Art Center Niʻaulani Campus in Volcano Village. No reservations for five or fewer – limited to ten people. Free; donations appreciated. Email programs@volcanoartcenter.org. Garden is open to walk through at one's own pace, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays. Free. volcanoartcenter.org/events, 967-8222
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Sign Up for Two Women's Health Programs from Kaʻū Women's Collective. Piko focuses on reproductive health; increasing access, respect, cultural competence, education, and choice. Pilina aims to grow membership and establish a culture of collaborative decision-making. Meetings held Sundays on Oct. 11, Nov. 8, and Dec. 13 at 2 p.m. Follow @kau_womens_health_collective. Contact rootsmedieshawaii@gmail.com. Call 808-450-0498.
RMAP nonprofit partners are Hawaiian Community Assets/Hawaiʻi Community Lending, HawaiianCommunity.net, 808-934-0801; HOPE Services Hawaiʻi, hopeserviceshawaii.org/rmap, 808-935-3050; Hawai‘i First Federal Credit Union, hawaiifirstfcu.com/pathways, 808-933-6600; Neighborhood Place of Puna, neighborhoodplaceofpuna.org/coronavirus-rent-mortgage-relief, 808-965-5550; Hawai‘i Island Home for Recovery, hihrecovery.org/RMAP, 808-640-4443 or 808-934-7852; Habitat for Humanity Hawai‘i Island, habitathawaiiisland.org/rmap.html, 808-450-2118.
Receive Help Over the Phone with Critical Financial Issues, through Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund Financial Navigators from County of Hawaiʻi, in partnership with Hawaiʻi First Federal Credit Union. Complete webform here or call 808-933-6600. Contact Sharon Hirota at 808-961-8019 with questions.
Marketing Assistance, for small businesses affected by COVID-19, from Univeristy of Hawaiʻi-Hilo faculty and their senior class at https://bit.ly/2YvFxsl.
EDUCATION
Invite Park Rangers to Virtually Visit Classes, through connecting with teachers and home-schoolers with distance learning programs and virtual huakaʻi (field trips). Contact havo_education@nps.gov.
Student Athletes of Kaʻū High interested in participating in athletics during the 2020-2021 school year are encouraged to call Athletic Director Kalei Namohala at 313-4161 to sign up for the Student Athlete Google Classroom.
Resilience Hub at Nāʻālehu Hongwanji, Monday-Wednesday-Friday, noon to 4 p.m. Drop-in wifi and laptop access, free meals for participating keiki. Follows all county, state, and federal COVID-19 guidelines. Contact Michelle Galimba, 808-430-4927.
ʻOhana Help Desk offers online How-To Guides fo
Pāhala and Nāʻālehu Public Libraries, open for wifi, pick-up, and other services. Nāʻālehu open Monday and Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Pāhala open Tuesday, noon to 7 p.m., Thursday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Schedule a Library Take Out time at picktime.com/hspls. Open for library card account help and reference assistance from the front door. Wifi available to anyone with a library card from each library parking lot. librarieshawaii.org
Free Book Exchanges, at laundromats in Ocean View and Nāʻālehu, provided by Friends of the Kaʻū Libraries. Open to all. Keep the books, pass them on to other readers, or return them. Selection of books replenished weekly at both sites.
Free Job Training for workers displaced by COVID-19 is launched by the state for up to 650 workers. Programs offer on-the-job training through Dec. 15, with wages starting at $13 to $15 an hour, health care benefits, and mentoring. Two different tracks in innovation or conservation sectors. See dbedt.hawaii.gov/blog/20-21/.
Virtual Workshops on Hawaiʻi's Legislative Processes through Public Access Room. Sign up by contacting (808) 587-0478 or par@capitol.hawaii.gov. Ask questions and discuss all things legislative in a non-partisan environment. Attend Coffee Hour with PAR: Fridays at 3 p.m. on Zoom, meeting ID 990 4865 9652 or click zoom.us/j/99048659652. PAR staff will be available to answer questions and to discuss the legislative process. Anyone wanting to listen in without taking part in discussions is welcome. Learn more at lrb.hawaii.gov/public-access-room.
Micronesian-Language COVID-19 Helpline offered by We Are Oceania. Receive answers to questions about COVID-19 symptoms, testing, quarantine, health insurance, housing, unemployment, and other related questions, for those Micronesians who do not speak English. (808) 913-1364. Watch the video here.
Anyone Feeling Depressed or Anxious, or who needs someone to talk to, can call Department of Health's expanded Hawai‘i C.A.R.E.S. program at 1-800-753-6879 – the same number previously used by Crisis Line of Hawai‘i. Individuals in crisis can also text ALOHA to 741741, available 24/7.
Learn How to Practice Self-Care through Big Island Substance Abuse Council's Practice Self-Care Series. For additional series that feature refreshing wellness tips, follow the Behavioral Health & Homelessness Statewide Unified Response Group on Facebook.
Health and Fitness Website for Kūpuna, 808b-fit.com, contains videos for kūpuna to play and move along with. There are videos for stretching, tai chi, yoga, dancing, dance fitness, bon dance, hula, chair dancing, and chair yoga.
Yoga with Emily Catey Weiss, Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. at Volcano Art Center Niʻaulani Campus in Volcano Village. Advanced registration required; $5 per class. volcanoartcenter.org/events, 967-8222
Yoga with Emily Catey Weiss, Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. at Volcano Art Center Niʻaulani Campus in Volcano Village. Advanced registration required; $5 per class. volcanoartcenter.org/events, 967-8222
Choose Aloha for Home is available to families, to provide a healthy way to grow together using neuroscience and positive psychology. Program uses a series of self-guided videos, activities, and "dinner table discussion topics." Sign up here.
AGRICULTURE
Coffee Growers are urged to take a survey on how the pandemic is affecting them by Hawaiʻi Coffee Association. Take the survey here: surveymonkey.com/r/638VWS6.
Coffee Farmers and Producers of Other Agricultural Products encouraged to apply to the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program through Dec. 11. See funding updates and resources for coffee growers, hawaiicoffeeassoc.org. See complete list of eligible commodities, payment rates, and calculations at farmers.gov/cfap.
Program to Sell Produce and Meats on Hawaiʻi Island from commercial farmers and livestock producers on Hawai‘i Island for distribution to families in need. Learn more.
Read About Seed Biodiversity for Hawaiʻi's Local Food System in It all Begins...and Ends with Seed, where Education and Outreach Coordinator Nancy Redfeather shares her insights. Read the blog.
Find Grants and Loans Offered to Farmers and Ranchers, at oahuaca.org. The website has a new search feature.
Find Rangeland Management Resources at globalrangelands.org/state/hawaii. Subscribe to the newsletter to receive updates.
Begin Learning Basics of Organic Farming, via free modules.