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| Hawaiʻi's coral reefs, as well as coral all over U.S. waters, are negatively affected primarily by climate change, fishing activity, and pollution. Read below about a new report that grades U.S. coral reef health. NOAA photo |
CORAL REEF CONDITIONS for Hawaiʻi and the rest of the U.S. received a health score this week from NOAA and the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science. The U.S. Coral Reef Condition Status Report was developed by NOAA's National Coral Reef Monitoring Program and UMCES's Integration and Application Network. Data was collected from 2012 through 2018.
A score of "fair" was given to Hawaiʻi reefs, based on four parameters: corals and algae abundance, reef fish populations, influence of climate on coral reefs, and human connections to reefs. Coral reef conditions all over the U.S. averaged "fair," out of "very good,""good,""fair,""impaired," and "critical." However, the report shows coral reefs are vulnerable and declining.
The report says the greatest threat to coral reefs is climate change, and higher-density human populations and activities along shores. More acidic and warmer oceans negatively affect corals planet-wide, says the report, and pollution, overfishing, and damage from fishing activities negatively affect near-shore reefs most.
Previous reports were released on coral reef conditions in Hawaiʻi, American Samoa, Northern Mariana Islands, and Guam, in 2018, and for Florida, Flower Garden Banks, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands in May. See NOAA's Coral Reef Information System for more detail.
The NOAA Coral Reef Conservation Program is supported by NOAA's National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science, Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center, Southeast Fisheries Science Center, Coral Reef Watch, Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory, and Ocean Acidification Program.
Retired Navy Rear Adm. Tim Gallaudet, Ph.D., assistant secretary of commerce for oceans and atmosphere, and deputy NOAA administrator, said of the report, "Considering the more than $3.4 billion in annual economic benefits of coral reefs, these reports and the policy actions that they will inform are critical to our American Blue Economy."
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| Scientists studying Hawaiʻi's near-shore sea coral reefs. NOAA photo |
The NOAA Coral Reef Conservation Program is supported by NOAA's National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science, Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center, Southeast Fisheries Science Center, Coral Reef Watch, Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory, and Ocean Acidification Program.
Retired Navy Rear Adm. Tim Gallaudet, Ph.D., assistant secretary of commerce for oceans and atmosphere, and deputy NOAA administrator, said of the report, "Considering the more than $3.4 billion in annual economic benefits of coral reefs, these reports and the policy actions that they will inform are critical to our American Blue Economy."
Jennifer Koss, director of NOAA's Coral Reef Conservation Program, said, "To conserve and restore coral reefs, we need to understand the overall condition of these ecosystems. This report represents a snapshot of reef condition and is a great resource for communities and decision-makers throughout the nation. We hope the report starts a dialogue about the various factors and potential solutions to the threats affecting coral reefs."
Heath Kelsey, director of UMCES's Integration and Application Network, said, "These status reports clearly show the impacts people are having on coral reef ecosystems. Our work in the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans shows a dire outlook for coral reef ecosystem health, from warming ocean waters, fishing, disease, and pollution from the land. Of all of these, climate change is the single biggest threat to shallow water coral reefs in the U.S., and worldwide."
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.
CANCELED IS THE SIT-DOWN THANKSGIVING MEAL hosted by Ocean View Community Association. OCVA told The Kaʻū Calendar, "Unlike the last 22 years, due to the pandemic, the OVCA will not be holding its annual free Thanksgiving sit-down meal event. Instead, a free drive-through pickup event will be scheduled once the new OVCA kitchen receives its certification, hopefully fairly soon. Once that happens, we'll schedule the event and I'll send you the details. Hoping for some time in December, but to be determined, depending on county processes. Thanks!"
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.
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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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.
Get Books Into the Hands of Keiki at the Volcano School of Arts & Sciences Virtual Book Fair, Nov. 16 through 29. This link, https://www.scholastic.com/bf/volcanoschoolofartssci, is for VSAS and will allow all purchases through this site to be credited towards VSAS's fundraiser. In addition, teachers will set up individual ʻeWalletʻ accounts for teacher wishlist funds: The eWallet allows parents, guardians, and community members to donate funds (not books) from which teachers can purchase books. There is free shipping on book purchases over $25.
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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.
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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
Watch Hawaiʻi International Film Festival Online through Sunday, Nov. 29. Tickets for individual screenings as well as all-access passes are available here.
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Volcano Village Art Hui: Creative Adaptations 2020 34th Annual Studio Tour & Sale, adapted to fit pandemic circumstances, will be held over Thanksgiving weekend – Nov. 27-29, Friday through Sunday. Participating artists will offer various ways to acquire art using safety guidelines, including online orders, scheduled appointments, and/or modified on-site studio tours. Many artists will continue these opportunities throughout December and beyond. See VolcanoVillageArtistsHui.com or Instagram: @VolcanoArtHui for updates and individual artists' contact information.
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Apply or Donate to Full Calabash Fund to support vulnerable Hawaiʻi families and food producers impacted by the pandemic through The Kohala Center. Organizations and foundations can donate to the Full Calabash Fund through Dec. 31 by contacting Nicole Milne, The Kohala Center's vice president of food and agriculture initiatives, at (808) 987-9210 or nmilne@kohalacenter.org. Nonprofit organizations and meal preparation services can apply for grants through Tuesday, Dec. 8 at 5 p.m. online at koha.la/calabash or by calling 808-887-6411.
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Big Island Giving Tree will have a booth at St. Jude's in Ocean View on Saturday, Dec. 12 from 8:30 a.m. to noon. Available to those in need will be free clothing, linens, shoes, household items, cleaning products, and hygiene products.
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Volunteer in the Community urges Hawaiʻi Community Foundation: "You can make Hawaiʻi better with your time. Whether you help pull invasive species from the coastline, pick up rubbish from the beach, deliver food to seniors, or read to keiki, just a couple hours of your time make a huge difference in your community! If you've ever considered volunteering, now is the time your community needs it most." Connect with community partners and get resources on where to volunteer at hawaiicommunityfoundation.org/participate.
Free Lifetime Entry for Veterans and Gold Star Families to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes and other national parks. Free entry applies to national parks, wildlife refuges, forests, and other Federal lands managed by the Department of the Interior. Learn more details, and how to apply and receive a Gold Star Family voucher, at https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/veterans-and-gold-star-families-free-access.htm.
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.
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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 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 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.
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| Hawaiʻi's deep-sea coral reefs are negatively affected by warming and acidifying seas. NOAA photo |
Heath Kelsey, director of UMCES's Integration and Application Network, said, "These status reports clearly show the impacts people are having on coral reef ecosystems. Our work in the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans shows a dire outlook for coral reef ecosystem health, from warming ocean waters, fishing, disease, and pollution from the land. Of all of these, climate change is the single biggest threat to shallow water coral reefs in the U.S., and worldwide."
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.
APPLY OR DONATE TO FULL CALABASH FUND to support vulnerable Hawaiʻi families and food producers impacted by the pandemic. The Kohala Center launched this statewide effort Tuesday. Organizations and foundations can donate to the Full Calabash Fund through Dec. 31 by contacting Nicole Milne, The Kohala Center's vice president of food and agriculture initiatives, at (808) 987-9210 or nmilne@kohalacenter.org. Nonprofit organizations and meal preparation services can apply for grants through Tuesday, Dec. 8 at 5 p.m. online at koha.la/calabash or by calling The Kohala Center at 808-887-6411.
The announcement from The Kohala Center says that, in Hawai‘i, when an ‘umeke or calabash was full, "it was a sign of strong relationships, knowledge, and resource abundance held within our communities. Following this tradition, The Kohala Center and a group of Hawai‘i food systems practitioners have established a Full Calabash Fund. The Full Calabash Fund reminds us of the honor that comes from the generous exchanges of gifts, including time, energy, and food. Although the coronavirus pandemic is an unprecedented event in our lifetimes, the ways we feed our future are still deeply rooted as we craft elegant solutions that strengthen food security and improve community access to healthy and nutritious food."
With initial funding from The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation, Frost Family Foundation, and The Johnson Ohana Foundation, the fund will support Hawaiʻi's community-based organizations that are purchasing food from local farmers, ranchers, and food producers, then providing food to community members in need. The fund will support those who are struggling to access affordable, nutritious food and those who are challenged in bringing food to market due to food service industry closures.
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"Ultimately, Hawaiʻi's community food system will benefit from the development of more connected and resilient local food networks, an increased emphasis on the importance of local farmers, ranchers, and fishers, and access to healthy, locally grown, raised, and harvested food. Working together, we will keep Hawaiʻi farmers farming, ranchers ranching, and fishers fishing, support Hawaiʻi's culinary workforce and businesses, and feed our communities," says The Kohala Center.
A minimum of 50 percent of all grant funds must be used to purchase products that are locally grown, raised, harvested, or value-added. Grant recipients will submit semiannual reports that detail the dollar amounts and types of local food purchased, and number of community members and families fed. As fundraising continues, grants may be extended to agricultural producers to support meeting the statewide need for local food, particularly those growing food for community emergency feeding and distribution programs. "As the COVID-19 pandemic unfolds and community needs evolve, The Kohala Center will conduct assessments for learning to ensure the fund's responsiveness, while remaining committed to the underlying goal of developing a resilient local food system," says the announcement.
The Full Calabash Fund is being hosted and managed by The Kohala Center, an independent 501(c)(3) focused on research, education, and ‘āina stewardship for healthier ecosystems. "By turning ancestral knowledge and research into action, we cultivate conditions that reconnect us with our food, water, place, and people," says the announcement. "The Center currently operates statewide loan and grant programs to support small-scale agricultural producers that contribute to building resilience in communities. Staff will support grantees in identifying additional resources beyond Full Calabash grants that further their capacity to do this important and urgent work in their communities. As a local fund administered by food system practitioners with deep knowledge and expertise, this resource will facilitate informed and nimble responses to nourish our community now and into the future."
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| A full ʻumeke, the symbol The Kohala Center is using to represent strong relationships, knowledge, and resources in the community. Photo from The Kohala Center |
With initial funding from The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation, Frost Family Foundation, and The Johnson Ohana Foundation, the fund will support Hawaiʻi's community-based organizations that are purchasing food from local farmers, ranchers, and food producers, then providing food to community members in need. The fund will support those who are struggling to access affordable, nutritious food and those who are challenged in bringing food to market due to food service industry closures.
A minimum of 50 percent of all grant funds must be used to purchase products that are locally grown, raised, harvested, or value-added. Grant recipients will submit semiannual reports that detail the dollar amounts and types of local food purchased, and number of community members and families fed. As fundraising continues, grants may be extended to agricultural producers to support meeting the statewide need for local food, particularly those growing food for community emergency feeding and distribution programs. "As the COVID-19 pandemic unfolds and community needs evolve, The Kohala Center will conduct assessments for learning to ensure the fund's responsiveness, while remaining committed to the underlying goal of developing a resilient local food system," says the announcement.
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| Boys & Girls Club Big Island is an example of a nonprofit feeding those in need during the pandemic with locally-grown and produced food. BGCBI photo |
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our Fresh Food on The Kaʻū Calendar and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.
AN ENVIRONMENTAL RULES PUBLIC HEARING will be held by the County of Hawaiʻi on Thursday, Nov. 19 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. The hearing will address the Department of Environmental Management's proposal to repeal its existing rules and adopt a new set of proposed Rules of Practice and Procedure.
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Attend the meeting via Webex Conferencing, meeting number (access code) 126 195 1374, meeting password v2uNh8nZS2w; or by phone: call 1-408-418-9388, access code 126 195 1374, password 82864869.
Proposed rules will cover administrative procedures; permits, operating rules, fines and fees for solid waste facilities; Derelict or Abandoned Vehicles Program; polystyrene foam food container and plastic bag reduction; and public sewer connections and disconnections, extensions, monitoring, hauling, and charges.
Proposed rules will be emailed or mailed at no cost by contacting Mary Fujio at 961-8099. Copies of the proposed rules may be reviewed or obtained at the Department of Environmental Management, 345 Kekūanāoʻa Street, Suite 41, Hilo, 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. by appointment only or through emailing cohdem@hawaiicounty.gov.
Provide written testimony by email to cohdem@hawaiicounty.gov, fax to (808) 961-8086, or mail to the Department of Environmental Management, 345 Kekūanāoʻa Street, Suite 41, Hilo, Hawaiʻi 96720. Testimony must be received by noon on Wednesday, Nov. 18. To provide oral testimony, email cohdem@hawaiicounty.gov or call (808) 961-8099 by noon on Wednesday, Nov. 18, with name, phone number, and email address of testifier.
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AN AWARD FOR FINANCIAL REPORTING was won by County of Hawai‘i Finance Department for the 32nd year in a row. For fiscal year ending June 30, 2019, Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada awarded its Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting to the Finance Department for its comprehensive annual financial report. The association said in a press release, "The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management."
To win the award, the County of Hawai‘i Finance Department was judged by an impartial panel, demonstrating a "constructive spirit of full disclosure" in communicating the Department's financial story and motivating potential users to read its financial report.
Hawai‘i County Mayor Harry Kim expressed pride in the accomplishments of the Finance Department, led by Director Deanna Sako. "This is the 32nd year that Finance has won this prestigious award; it shows how dedicated and professional our Finance people are. Congratulations to our great Finance folks for the wonderful job they do."
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.
Proposed rules will cover administrative procedures; permits, operating rules, fines and fees for solid waste facilities; Derelict or Abandoned Vehicles Program; polystyrene foam food container and plastic bag reduction; and public sewer connections and disconnections, extensions, monitoring, hauling, and charges.
Proposed rules will be emailed or mailed at no cost by contacting Mary Fujio at 961-8099. Copies of the proposed rules may be reviewed or obtained at the Department of Environmental Management, 345 Kekūanāoʻa Street, Suite 41, Hilo, 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. by appointment only or through emailing cohdem@hawaiicounty.gov.
Provide written testimony by email to cohdem@hawaiicounty.gov, fax to (808) 961-8086, or mail to the Department of Environmental Management, 345 Kekūanāoʻa Street, Suite 41, Hilo, Hawaiʻi 96720. Testimony must be received by noon on Wednesday, Nov. 18. To provide oral testimony, email cohdem@hawaiicounty.gov or call (808) 961-8099 by noon on Wednesday, Nov. 18, with name, phone number, and email address of testifier.
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.
To win the award, the County of Hawai‘i Finance Department was judged by an impartial panel, demonstrating a "constructive spirit of full disclosure" in communicating the Department's financial story and motivating potential users to read its financial report.
Hawai‘i County Mayor Harry Kim expressed pride in the accomplishments of the Finance Department, led by Director Deanna Sako. "This is the 32nd year that Finance has won this prestigious award; it shows how dedicated and professional our Finance people are. Congratulations to our great Finance folks for the wonderful job they do."
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.
CANCELED IS THE SIT-DOWN THANKSGIVING MEAL hosted by Ocean View Community Association. OCVA told The Kaʻū Calendar, "Unlike the last 22 years, due to the pandemic, the OVCA will not be holding its annual free Thanksgiving sit-down meal event. Instead, a free drive-through pickup event will be scheduled once the new OVCA kitchen receives its certification, hopefully fairly soon. Once that happens, we'll schedule the event and I'll send you the details. Hoping for some time in December, but to be determined, depending on county processes. Thanks!"
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| Ocean View Community Association hopes to hold a free drive-thru dinner in place of the traditional Thanksgiving sit-down meal, due to the pandemic, sometime in December. Photo from ovcahi.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.
FREE DRIVE-THRU COVID-19 TESTING will be held Saturday, Nov. 14 at West Hawai‘i Civic Center in Kona and Civic Auditorium in Hilo from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. On Monday, Nov. 16, testing will be at Keauhou Shopping Center from 9 a.m. to noon. No co-pay and insurance necessary to be tested but bring insurance card if have. Face covers and social distancing required at all times. Questions? Call Civil Defense at 935-0031.
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. REPORTED MORE THAN 200,000 NEW COVID CASES in the last day. Since the pandemic began, the U.S. reported 10,727,885 cases – about 20.1 percent of worldwide cases. The death toll is more than 244,283 – a one-day increase of 1,629 – about 18.7 percent of worldwide deaths.
Hawaiʻi Island reports eight new COVID cases today. There are at least 12 people hospitalized on Hawaiʻi Island with the virus.
New cases reported statewide today total 110, with 92 on Oʻahu, one on Maui, two on Kauaʻi, and seven residents diagnosed out-of-state.
Since the pandemic began, 48 deaths have been reported on Hawaiʻi Island by Hawaiʻi Civil Defense. At least 222 people have died in the state, according to state records, none new today.
Since the pandemic began, there have been 16,412 total COVID cases in the state. Oʻahu has reported 14,172 total cases, Maui 443, Lanaʻi 106, Molokaʻi 17, and Kauaʻi 77. Residents diagnosed while out-of-state, 138. Statewide, 1,194 people have been hospitalized since the pandemic began.
Department of Health reports 1,414 new cases have been diagnosed in the state the last 14 days, a daily average case rate of 101. Hawaiʻi Island reports an average of 12 new cases per day over the last 14 days.
No new cases have been reported in the last 14 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 zip code 96704, which includes Miloliʻi.
In the last 14 days, 15 cases have been reported in Kaʻū zip code 96737, 21 in Hilo zip code 96720, 88 in Kona zip code 96740, 16 in zip code 96743 – which includes Waikoloa, Kawaihae, Waimea, Puako, Waikui, and Akona – and 13 in zip code 96738 – which includes Waikoloa Village and Puako.
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.
The worldwide cumulative COVID count is 53,281,350. The death toll is more than 1,301,021.
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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Onset of COVID-19 cases in the last 14 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 |
Hawaiʻi Island reports eight new COVID cases today. There are at least 12 people hospitalized on Hawaiʻi Island with the virus.
New cases reported statewide today total 110, with 92 on Oʻahu, one on Maui, two on Kauaʻi, and seven residents diagnosed out-of-state.
Since the pandemic began, 48 deaths have been reported on Hawaiʻi Island by Hawaiʻi Civil Defense. At least 222 people have died in the state, according to state records, none new today.
Since the pandemic began, there have been 16,412 total COVID cases in the state. Oʻahu has reported 14,172 total cases, Maui 443, Lanaʻi 106, Molokaʻi 17, and Kauaʻi 77. Residents diagnosed while out-of-state, 138. Statewide, 1,194 people have been hospitalized since the pandemic began.
Department of Health reports 1,414 new cases have been diagnosed in the state the last 14 days, a daily average case rate of 101. Hawaiʻi Island reports an average of 12 new cases per day over the last 14 days.
No new cases have been reported in the last 14 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 zip code 96704, which includes Miloliʻi.
In the last 14 days, 15 cases have been reported in Kaʻū zip code 96737, 21 in Hilo zip code 96720, 88 in Kona zip code 96740, 16 in zip code 96743 – which includes Waikoloa, Kawaihae, Waimea, Puako, Waikui, and Akona – and 13 in zip code 96738 – which includes Waikoloa Village and Puako.
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.
The worldwide cumulative COVID count is 53,281,350. The death toll is more than 1,301,021.
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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
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@hawaiia
ntel.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.
Basics of Mushroom Cultivation with Zach Mermel, Saturday, Nov. 14, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222
Watch Live Concert of Willie Nelson & The Boys Sunday, Nov. 15 at 12:25 p.m. Purchase tickets without attending the Hawaiʻi Farmers Union United convention here.
Watch Live Concert of Willie Nelson & The Boys Sunday, Nov. 15 at 12:25 p.m. Purchase tickets without attending the Hawaiʻi Farmers Union United convention here.
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.
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.
Get Books Into the Hands of Keiki at the Volcano School of Arts & Sciences Virtual Book Fair, Nov. 16 through 29. This link, https://www.scholastic.com/bf/volcanoschoolofartssci, is for VSAS and will allow all purchases through this site to be credited towards VSAS's fundraiser. In addition, teachers will set up individual ʻeWalletʻ accounts for teacher wishlist funds: The eWallet allows parents, guardians, and community members to donate funds (not books) from which teachers can purchase books. There is free shipping on book purchases over $25.
Attend or Testify Environmental Rules Public Hearing on Thursday, Nov. 19 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. The hearing will address the Department of Environmental Management's proposal to repeal its existing rules and adopt a new set of proposed Rules of Practice and Procedure. Attend the meeting via Webex Conferencing, meeting number (access code) 126 195 1374, meeting password v2uNh8nZS2w; or by phone: call 1-408-418-9388, access code 126 195 1374, password 82864869.
Proposed rules will be emailed or mailed at no cost by contacting Mary Fujio at 961-8099. Copies of the proposed rules may be reviewed or obtained at the Department of Environmental Management, 345 Kekūanāoʻa Street, Suite 41, Hilo, 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. by appointment only or through emailing cohdem@hawaiicounty.gov.
Provide written testimony by email to cohdem@hawaiicounty.gov, fax to (808) 961-8086, or mail to the Department of Environmental Management, 345 Kekūanāoʻa Street, Suite 41, Hilo, Hawaiʻi 96720. Testimony must be received by noon on Wednesday, Nov. 18. To provide oral testimony, email cohdem@hawaiicounty.gov or call (808) 961-8099 by noon on Wednesday, Nov. 18, with your name, phone number, and email address of testifier.
Proposed rules will be emailed or mailed at no cost by contacting Mary Fujio at 961-8099. Copies of the proposed rules may be reviewed or obtained at the Department of Environmental Management, 345 Kekūanāoʻa Street, Suite 41, Hilo, 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. by appointment only or through emailing cohdem@hawaiicounty.gov.
Provide written testimony by email to cohdem@hawaiicounty.gov, fax to (808) 961-8086, or mail to the Department of Environmental Management, 345 Kekūanāoʻa Street, Suite 41, Hilo, Hawaiʻi 96720. Testimony must be received by noon on Wednesday, Nov. 18. To provide oral testimony, email cohdem@hawaiicounty.gov or call (808) 961-8099 by noon on Wednesday, Nov. 18, with your name, phone number, and email address of testifier.
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
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.
Thanksgiving Turkey Dinner Fundraiser for Kaʻū Hospital Charitable Foundation will be held Wednesday, Nov. 25, noon to 4 p.m. and Thursday, Nov. 26, noon to 2 p.m. Drive-thru pickup at lanai gate at the hospital parking lot. Each plate is $10 and includes turkey, dressing (stuffing), mashed potatoes, gravy, veggies, and pumpkin pie. Tickets are available through Tuesday, Nov. 24 at 4:30 p.m., cash or check, in the business office or clinic reception. Questions? Contact Jennifer Grace at 808-932-4372.
Watch Hawaiʻi International Film Festival Online through Sunday, Nov. 29. Tickets for individual screenings as well as all-access passes are available here.
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.
Volcano Village Art Hui: Creative Adaptations 2020 34th Annual Studio Tour & Sale, adapted to fit pandemic circumstances, will be held over Thanksgiving weekend – Nov. 27-29, Friday through Sunday. Participating artists will offer various ways to acquire art using safety guidelines, including online orders, scheduled appointments, and/or modified on-site studio tours. Many artists will continue these opportunities throughout December and beyond. See VolcanoVillageArtistsHui.com or Instagram: @VolcanoArtHui for updates and individual artists' contact information.
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.
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.
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.
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.
ONGOING
COMMUNITY
Support Volcano Emergency Response Team's Efforts to supply a newly-developed plan to manage potential disasters in the community of Volcano until other assistance arrives. In order to address these disasters quickly and efficiently, such as hurricanes, COVID-19, and volcanic issues, supplies and equipment are needed to assist the Volcano community in the event a disaster. VERP has set up a GoFundMe website to address these needs and would be "extremely grateful" for any contribution in any amount. See gofundme.com/volcano-emergency-response-plan or the VERP page at thecoopercenter.org.
ONGOING
COMMUNITY
Support Volcano Emergency Response Team's Efforts to supply a newly-developed plan to manage potential disasters in the community of Volcano until other assistance arrives. In order to address these disasters quickly and efficiently, such as hurricanes, COVID-19, and volcanic issues, supplies and equipment are needed to assist the Volcano community in the event a disaster. VERP has set up a GoFundMe website to address these needs and would be "extremely grateful" for any contribution in any amount. See gofundme.com/volcano-emergency-response-plan or the VERP page at thecoopercenter.org.
Volunteer in the Community urges Hawaiʻi Community Foundation: "You can make Hawaiʻi better with your time. Whether you help pull invasive species from the coastline, pick up rubbish from the beach, deliver food to seniors, or read to keiki, just a couple hours of your time make a huge difference in your community! If you've ever considered volunteering, now is the time your community needs it most." Connect with community partners and get resources on where to volunteer at hawaiicommunityfoundation.org/participate.Free Lifetime Entry for Veterans and Gold Star Families to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes and other national parks. Free entry applies to national parks, wildlife refuges, forests, and other Federal lands managed by the Department of the Interior. Learn more details, and how to apply and receive a Gold Star Family voucher, at https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/veterans-and-gold-star-families-free-access.htm.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
FREE FOOD
Bulk School Meal Service for those 18 and under will be held at Volcano and Pāhala on alternating weeks. Friday, Nov. 13, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., pick up food at Kaʻū District Gym. Friday, Nov. 20, pick up food at The Volcano School of Arts & Sciences Keakealani Campus located at 19-4024 Haunani Road in Volcano. There is no service on Friday, Nov. 27. The program runs through June 30, 2021. Pick up food items such as eggs, cereal, dry pasta, rice, beans, tortillas, milk, and canned vegetables and fruit. As the program grows, a variety of fresh products like meats, fruits and vegetables may be on offer. Each distribution will provide enough food for every person 18 years and under to eat breakfast and lunch. No income requirements to participate. Youth do not need to be present to receive bags but be prepared to give their names and birthdates. See https://www.volcanoschool.net/ or call 808-985-9901.
Bulk School Meal Service for those 18 and under will be held at Volcano and Pāhala on alternating weeks. Friday, Nov. 13, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., pick up food at Kaʻū District Gym. Friday, Nov. 20, pick up food at The Volcano School of Arts & Sciences Keakealani Campus located at 19-4024 Haunani Road in Volcano. There is no service on Friday, Nov. 27. The program runs through June 30, 2021. Pick up food items such as eggs, cereal, dry pasta, rice, beans, tortillas, milk, and canned vegetables and fruit. As the program grows, a variety of fresh products like meats, fruits and vegetables may be on offer. Each distribution will provide enough food for every person 18 years and under to eat breakfast and lunch. No income requirements to participate. Youth do not need to be present to receive bags but be prepared to give their names and birthdates. See https://www.volcanoschool.net/ or call 808-985-9901.
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
Appointments for free Veterinary Care or Spay & Neutering can be scheduled by visiting hihs.org and clicking on the Services Tab, then selecting Spay and Neuter or Community Vet Care, or by emailing petsupport@hihs.org or calling 808-217-0154. All appointments must be scheduled in advance and are open to healthy owned dogs and cats only. Two pets per family will be accommodated. Each pet must have its own appointment. Animals other than dogs and cats, unhealthy animals, or those with contagious illnesses will not be accepted.
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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.
Report Humpback Whales in Trouble is the reminder from Hawai‘i Pacific Parks Association and Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale and National Marine Sanctuary: "If you spot a humpback whale in trouble (entangled, being harassed etc.) please call the NOAA Fisheries 24 hour hotline at 1-888-256-984. The line also works for reports for sea turtles, monk seals and dolphins."
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
Free WiFi Access for Students is available in Pāhala, Nāʻālehu, and Ocean View through Kaʻū High & Pāhala Elementary.
In Pāhala, access is limited to ten students at a time at the school gym on weekdays from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Support is provided by Joshua Ortega.
In Nāʻālehu, access is limited to 12 students at a time at Nāʻālehu Assembly of God on Thursdays from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Support is provided by Carla Lind.
In Ocean View, access is limited to five students at a time at Ocean View Community Center on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Support is provided by Crystal Mandaquit. No restrooms available at this location.
Kaʻū Mobile Learning Hub at St. Jude's lower parking lot is available weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Instruction and support are provided by Carla Lind, Arianrhod VanNewkirk, Heather Naboa, Marcia Masters, and Breeann Ebanez.
All students and staff must wear a mask at all times and follow all COVID-19 guidelines. Each student must bring their device, school materials, and a water bottle. Questions? See khpes.org or call 313-4100.
Free WiFi Access for Students is available in Pāhala, Nāʻālehu, and Ocean View through Kaʻū High & Pāhala Elementary.
In Pāhala, access is limited to ten students at a time at the school gym on weekdays from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Support is provided by Joshua Ortega.
In Nāʻālehu, access is limited to 12 students at a time at Nāʻālehu Assembly of God on Thursdays from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Support is provided by Carla Lind.
In Ocean View, access is limited to five students at a time at Ocean View Community Center on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Support is provided by Crystal Mandaquit. No restrooms available at this location.
Kaʻū Mobile Learning Hub at St. Jude's lower parking lot is available weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Instruction and support are provided by Carla Lind, Arianrhod VanNewkirk, Heather Naboa, Marcia Masters, and Breeann Ebanez.
All students and staff must wear a mask at all times and follow all COVID-19 guidelines. Each student must bring their device, school materials, and a water bottle. Questions? See khpes.org or call 313-4100.
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.
Appointments for free Veterinary Care or Spay & Neutering can be scheduled by visiting hihs.org and clicking on the Services Tab, then selecting Spay and Neuter or Community Vet Care, or by emailing petsupport@hihs.org or calling 808-217-0154. All appointments must be scheduled in advance and are open to healthy owned dogs and cats only. Two pets per family will be accommodated. Each pet must have its own appointment. Animals other than dogs and cats, unhealthy animals, or those with contagious illnesses will not be accepted.
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.
Report Humpback Whales in Trouble is the reminder from Hawai‘i Pacific Parks Association and Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale and National Marine Sanctuary: "If you spot a humpback whale in trouble (entangled, being harassed etc.) please call the NOAA Fisheries 24 hour hotline at 1-888-256-984. The line also works for reports for sea turtles, monk seals and dolphins."
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.