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Wednesday, September 09, 2020

Ka‘ū News Briefs, Wednesday, September 9, 2020

Hawaiʻi Police Officers Brad Waiki and Augustine Akiu Jr. today, welcoming people for COVID-19 testing
at the gym that honors the late state legislator Robert N. Herkes, a key supporter of building the gym and shelter.
 COVID testing was organized by Kaʻū Rural Health Community Association. See more below. Photo by Julia Neal
COVID-19 TESTING came to Pāhala today and saw teachers, school staff, and kūpuna coming to the Robert N. Herkes Gymnasium & Shelter, named for the late state legislator who advocated for the construction of the shelter. The event was organized by Kaʻū Rural Health Community Association and co-sponsored by S&G Labs, Project Vision, Hawaiʻi District Health Office, Hui Mālama Ola Nā ʻŌiwi, Bay Clinic Inc., Kaʻū Hospital & Rural Health Clinic, Mayor Harry Kim, Kaʻū police and fire departments, and Hawaiʻi Island National Guard.
     In the meantime, authorities are pressing the community to follow quarantine rules, including ensuring that residents of the one home in Pāhala with a COVID-19 victim stays at home. Police also educate people to refrain from lingering when going to and from the ocean for exercise and recreation during the county and state beach park shutdown. Vendors at Punaluʻu Beach say they plan to stay closed during the time folks are prohibited from gathering on the shoreline.
     Area residents are also talking of concern for residents from Kaʻū living in Yukio Okutsu State Veteran's Home in Hilo. At least one veteran from Pāhala and one from Ocean View are included in the five from Volcano through Ocean View to Miloliʻi. COVID-19 has continued to spread among the approximately 88 residents, with ten deaths. See more in the COVID count story, below.

Trojan Archives: Titan Ault, left, and Travis Taylor represented Kaʻū High at 
BIIF bowling finals in 2014, along with Coach Hiʻilani Lapera. 
Photo by Taylor's Treasures Photography
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BOWLING COULD BE RESURRECTED AS A FALL SPORT, according to a story by sports writer Matt Gerhart, in this morning's Hawaiʻi Tribune-Herald. The Hawaiʻi Athletic Association's no-contact rule expires this Sunday, Sept. 13 for Kaʻū and other high schools around the state.
     Gerhart reported on a text from BIIF bowling champ Kaula Martin: "I think that (bowling) should proceed soon and other sports," Martin said in a text to the Tribune-Herald. "But all the rules must
still apply with the masks and the social distancing and stuff. But they really need to let the kids play. We are suffering without our sports and, honestly, without school. I don't know if I'm just thinking of myself, but I really think that sports should come back.
KMC is set up for safe-practices bowling, for
approved patrons only, including high school
teams. Photo by Julia Neal
     "Sports is our way of letting go, coping with everything that we have to deal with it, and it's being taken away. So I think that they should bring it back – because '#letthekidsplay' – but we do still need to follow the rules to be safe," Martin told the Tribune.
     Gerhart reports, "If 2020 were playing by the rules, Hilo bowling coach Damien Chow would spend part of a practice week with a video session in the classroom, then the Vikings would break out the rubber balls and pins and head to the gym to work on what they've learned. The kids have a blast," Chow told Gerhart.
     At Kaʻū High, during this time of the school year, students would travel to Kīlauea Military Camp to practice. KMC bowling alley is open for approved patrons with masks, social distancing, and floor markings at the alley and adjacent dining area to keep people on a safe path. Hilo High School bowlers also traditionally use KMC for practice.
     Gerhart reports that the Hawaiʻi High School Athletic Association will meet this week and could extend the no-contact rule for all sports, including bowling to at least Oct. 2, when some classroom attendance could be allowed. Other issues that could delay bowling include distancing while transporting students to KMC and maintaining distancing during tournaments, which can see up to 12 teams in a facility at the same time.
     Gerhart notes that Kaʻū fielded squads in 2019 along with Kamehameha, Hilo, Kealakehe, Pāhoa, and Konawaena. Kamehameha swept the boys and girls titles. See the full story Let the Kids Play.... at Hawaiʻi Tribune-Herald.

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STARTING UP HŪ HONUA BIOENERGY PLANT WAS TURNED DOWN again today by the state Public Utilities Commission. Hū Honua asked for a reversal of the PUC decision to set aside its permit to sell electricity to Hawaiian Electric. PUC ruled that Hū Honua can reapply, which would mean competing with other energy proposals to include solar, wind, and geothermal.
     Opponents of Hū Honua burning farmed eucalyptus trees for electricity – with tree farms above Pāhala and beyond – is bad for the environment. They also contend that effluent could pollute groundwater and the ocean at its plant on the Hāmākua Coast.
     Proponents say trees grown for bioenergy can be replanted and that burning wood for biofuel will help detach Hawaiʻi Island from fossil fuel and become part of the portfolio of alternative energies.
     Honua Ola, the parent company of Hū Honua, has spent some $350 million on the project.

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First responders at Hilo jail yesterdays where they stopped a fire and a riot. Photo by Tim Wright
"NON-LETHAL MEANS" WERE USED TO QUELL THE RIOT at Hawaiʻi Community Correctional Center in Hilo on Tuesday evening, says a statement from Hawaiʻi Department of Public Safety. "Final reports are still being compiled, but what we can confirm, based on preliminary information, is that inmates started the disturbance after a shakedown search for contraband was conducted in their housing unit. There is no indication that overcrowding contributed to the cause."
     Tuesday afternoon in the A-wing of the Wainuenue housing module, inmates reportedly barricaded doors, broke windows and security screens, and set mattresses, plastic chairs, and books on fire. Police and State Corrections officers shut down Wainuenue Avenue and parts of Komohana Street, establishing a perimeter around the facility. Emergency response teams subdued inmates and put out the fire. Inmates were gathered under armed guard in a contained area outside the facility.
Police outside the Hilo prison. Photo by Tim Wright
     Hawaiʻi County Police reported a few injures to inmates, and smoke inhalation and respiratory issues, but no major injuries. One staff member was taken to the hospital for treatment of minor injuries and released last night. Eight inmates were transported to the hospital to be evaluated for minor injuries and smoke inhalation. The inmates were all medically cleared and returned to the facility last night. Medical and mental health staff are circulating through the housing units to make sure all inmates who request a consult are seen, says the statement.
     There is smoke damage from the fire and water damage from the activation of the sprinkler system. Costs of damages to the structures are being investigated.
     The 25 inmates housed in the A-wing "will all be questioned to determine what prompted the unrest and who was directly involved. Inmates found culpable will be criminally and administratively charged," says the statement.
     Maria Cook, Deputy Director for Administration, said, "All the credit goes to the HCCC Warden and his staff for acting swiftly to mobilize their emergency response team and to bring order back to the facility. We would also like to acknowledge the Kulani warden and her staff, as well as the State Sheriffs, Hawaiʻi Fire Department, and Hawaiʻi Police Department for their assistance."

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HAWAIʻI IS THE THIRD MOST DIVERSE STATE IN THE NATION, in the measuring of many metrics, according to a WalletHub report released today. "With racial equality being a hot-button issue in 2020 and Hispanic Heritage Month in full swing, WalletHub issued 2020's Most & Least Diverse States in America and accompanying videos.
     To determine where the most idea and identity exchanges have occurred at the highest level in the
U.S. — and where the population is relatively more homogeneous — WalletHub compared the 50 states across six key categories: socio-economic, cultural, economic, household, religious, and political diversity.
     Hawaiʻi ranks first in Racial & Ethnic Diversity; second in Generational Diversity; third in Worker-Class Diversity; and third in Household-Size Diversity, measuring the non-military employed population of those 16 years and older. Hawaiʻi ranks ninth in Linguistic Diversity, 14th in Birthplace Diversity, 18th in Industry Diversity; 23rd in Occupational Diversity, and 27th in Educational-Attainment Diversity. See the full report here

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NO GOLD STARS ARE REQUIRED ON REAL ID'S for a while longer, reports the county Department of Finance. The deadline of Oct. 1 has been extended due to the coronavirus. "Due to the backlog of drivers with expired licenses, we are not accepting appointments to add the gold star at this time," said the statement released today.
     The statement also reminds the public that appointments are required for services at all Vehicle Registration and Licensing offices. Face coverings must be worn and customers must adhere to the recommended six-foot social distancing. Only those receiving services are allowed inside the lobby, and minors and those needing assistance may have one person accompany them. Appointments for vehicle registration and driver's license transactions may be scheduled online at https://vehicleregistrationlicensing.as.me. Those who traveled off-island within the past 14 days, have a fever exceeding 100.4 F, are feeling sick, or have taken a COVID-19 test without receiving the results, are asked to refrain from visiting offices for services or scheduling an in-person appointment. "We appreciate your patience and look forward to expanded services in the, hopefully, not too distant future," says the statement.

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A red flag fire warning and small craft advisory are in
effect through tomorrow night. NWS image
ANOTHER RED FLAG FIRE WARNING is in effect tomorrow, Thursday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. for all of Kaʻū and Volcano, reports the National Weather Service. Due to "gusty winds and low humidity," and "the lack of any significant rainfall through the summer months, fuels have become very dry across portions of the state." NWS says the conditions "support critical fire conditions."
     Kaʻū will see trade winds of 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 35 mph and humidity in the afternoon dropping as low as 40 percent. "Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly. Outdoor burning is not recommended," says NWS.

     NWS also reports a small craft advisory for waters south and west of Kaʻū through Sunday at 6 p.m.

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FOOD BASKET DISTRIBUTION will be held at Nāʻālehu Hongwanji tomorrow, Thursday, Sept. 10, from 10 a.m. until pau. On Wednesday, Sept. 30, Food Basket will also distribute at Volcano Village's Cooper Center, from 10 a.m. until pau. See hawaiifoodbasket.org.

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JOY SAN BUENAVENTURA AND RON KA-IPO are the candidates running for the state Senate District 2 seat, which serves East Kaʻū and Volcano, into Puna and South Hilo. The General Election on Tuesday, Nov. 3, will be preceded by ballots arriving around Oct. 16, in Hawaiʻi's first all-mail-in General Election. People can register to vote by Monday, Oct. 5 online, https://olvr.hawaii.gov/, or if postmarked by that date via mail. Voters can still vote in-person and may register the same day at voting locations in Kona and Hilo from Tuesday, Oct. 20 through Nov. 2, excluding Sundays, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and on election day from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
State Senate District 2 candidate
Joy San Buenaventura
     As of Aug. 8, San Buenaventura, Democrat, received $32,015 in monetary and non-monetary campaign contributions. Of that, about 11.5 percent, $3,690 in contributions were donations of $100 or less. She began her campaign with a balance of $35,573.55.
     As of Aug. 8, Ka-ipo, Aloha ʻĀina Party, received $400 in monetary and non-monetary campaign contributions. All is categorized as "other" funds, including his own money. He began his campaign with no balance.
     According to her campaign website, San Buenaventura is endorsed by Sen. Russell Ruderman, who presently holds the seat. He says, "Joy is by far the best candidate for Senate in Puna and Kaʻū. I've worked with her for years in the legislature, and I know her commitment to our community is deep and sincere. I look forward to continuing to work with her on many projects and a smooth transition of our office to hers. Her successful relationships in the legislature will benefit Puna and Kaʻū from day one." She is endorsed by Sen. Lorraine Inouye, who says San Buenaventura is "intelligent and a woman of integrity. We may not always agree but I know she will advocate for Puna and Kaʻū."
     State Sen. Kai Kahele also endorses her, saying, "As chair of Human Services & Homelessness, Joy has made sure that Hawaiʻi Island nonprofits have their share of resources. My father, Gilbert Kahele, and I have known Joy for many years. I know she will continue to fight for Hawaiʻi Island like she did following the 2018 lava disaster."
State Senate District 2 candidate Ron Ka-ipo
     San Buenaventura is also endorsed by ILWU Local 142, Hawaiʻi AFL-CIO, Hawaiʻi State Teachers Association, HGEA Local 152, Sierra Club, Japanese Chamber of Commerce & Industry of Hawaiʻi, Hawaiʻi Chapter of Americans for Democratic Action, UPW Local 646, Planned Parenthood, Hawaiʻi Association of Realtors, Hawaiʻi Firefighters Assoc. Local 1463, and Patsy Mink PAC.
     Ka-ipo holds no public endorsements. He told The Kaʻū Calendar he is running for his grandkids.

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POLICE RECOVERED A VEHICLE AND A BOAT REMOVED FROM AN OCEAN VIEW RESIDENCE during the arrest of Jatty Daugherty in Kona last week. The 23-year-old has previously been arrested for theft in Ocean View, and previously lived in Estacada, Oregon. He is suspected of stealing the vehicle and boat, using the vehicle's owner's credit cards, and being in possession of one gram of methamphetamine and 1.8 grams of heroin.
     On Friday, Sept. 4, Daugherty was charged with two counts each of theft of a credit card, fraudulent use of a credit card, theft in the first degree, and unauthorized possession of confidential personal information; and one count each of unauthorized control of a propelled vehicle, unauthorized entry into a motor vehicle, criminal property damage in the first degree, promotion of a dangerous drug in the third degree, and habitual property crimes. His total bail was set at $180,000.
Jatty Daugherty has been arrested and
charged. HPD photo
     Hawaiʻi Police Department says it appreciates tips received from the public, which led to the recovery of the boat. Police encourage the public to report any suspicious activity to (808) 935-3311. Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous may call the island-wide Crime Stoppers number at 961-8300 and may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000. Crime Stoppers is a volunteer program run by ordinary citizens who want to keep their community safe. Crime Stoppers does not record calls or subscribe to any Caller ID service. All Crime Stoppers information is kept confidential.

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SUBMIT COMMENTS AND QUESTIONS ABOUT HAWAIIAN ELECTRIC'S KEĀHOLE BATTERY STORAGE PROJECT through Saturday, Sept. 26. The utility submitted an application to the Public Utilities Commission on Aug. 28 for a 12-megawatt, 12-megawatt-hour Battery Energy Storage System to help stabilize the power grid for the whole island. The first of its kind on-island, it would provide "fast frequency response" in the event of a sudden dip in energy production from renewable sources, like solar or wind, or a thermal power plant. The utility says this "will help improve grid stability, reducing the likelihood of customer outages."
Hawaiian Electric industrial zone in Kona near the airport, where the 
proposed battery system would be built. Photo from Hawaiian Electric
     Virtual public meetings on both projects were held earlier this year and video replays of the discussions, along with the PUC applications and project details, can be found at www.hawaiianelectri.com/
selfbuildprojects. Comments and questions can be submitted to keaholebess@hawaiian
electric.com and will be included in the application to PUC.

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HAWAIʻI REPORTS 100 NEW COVID-19 CASES STATEWIDE TODAY. Since the pandemic began, there have been 10,123. Today is the third day in a row of lower case counts, with 66 news cases yesterday, 105 Monday, down from case counts as high as 339 on Sept. 2. Nevertheless, the state case count has more than doubled since Aug. 17.
      Department of Health reports 3,120 people have been released from isolation and there are 6,912 active cases. The state has 66 more cases today: 12 on Hawaiʻi Island and 88 on Oʻahu. Hawaiʻi Island has 293 active cases according to Civil Defense.
     The state's official death toll is 91, three new today on Oʻahu. This does not include a death at Hilo Medical Center yesterday afternoon. Civil Defense says, "Prayers and condolences from the Island's People go out to the families. No words can express our sadness." This death is not associated with Yukio Okutsu State Veteran's Home. Hilo Medical Center reports six employees have tested positive for COVID-19. At HMC, 14 COVID patients are hospitalized, with four in ICU.
     Today's other reported death on-island is the passing of a tenth resident of the Veteran's Home in Hilo. At least six of the Veterans Home's deaths are not included in the state's count. A statement from the Veterans Home says the resident had significant underlying health issues. "We offer our deepest sympathies to the families and loved ones," says a statement from the Veterans Home.
Onset of COVID-19 cases in the last 28 days, by zip code. Gray
areas have zero or few residential addresses. White is zero cases.
Yellow is one to 24 cases. Pale orange is 25 to 59 cases. Medium
orange (not pictured) is 60 to 125 cases. Dark orange is 125 
to 225 cases. Bright red (not pictured) is 226 to 453 cases. 
Dark red (not pictured) is 454 to 728 cases. 
Department of Health map
     An increase of four positive cases in the resident population today brings the cumulative total to 63, with 88 residents when the cluster first developed. Two more employees have tested positive, bringing the total to 22. Three of the Veterans Home's residents are hospitalized at Hilo Medical Center. Thirty-six residents are cared for in the Veterans Home's COVID-designated area. Fourteen residents and two employees have recovered.
     Testing of all staff and residents at Life Care Center of Hilo and Hale Anuenue Restorative Care Center is complete. All test results are negative. Retesting is being scheduled in both facilities as part of a comprehensive testing plan. 
     Hawaiʻi Island's case count total is 533 since the pandemic began. Eight island residents are hospitalized. In the last 28 days, active cases have been reported in zip codes 96704 with Miloliʻi; 96737 with Ocean View; 96772 with Nāʻālehu, Waiʻōhinu, Green Sands, Discovery Harbour, and South Point; 96777 with Pāhala, Punaluʻu, Wood Valley; and 96785 with Volcano Village. Zip code 96718 is Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, which has few residents and no cases to date. Other areas shaded gray on the map, above, have no or very little population and no cases.
    Since the pandemic began, Oʻahu reported 9,146 cases, Maui County 360, and Kauaʻi 58. Twenty-six victims are residents diagnosed while visiting other places. Statewide, 604 people have been hospitalized since the pandemic began.
     All beach and shoreline parks are closed through Sept. 19. The activities of exercising, fishing, food gathering, use of restroom, shower facilities, and access to the ocean will continue to be allowed. Use of pavilions, barbecues, tents or other shade devices, tables, hibachis, coolers, picnicking, camping, and commercial operations are all prohibited.
     Hawaiʻi Island Police will continue their enforcement of the preventative polices of face coverings, distancing, and gatherings. Civil Defense says, "Know that these policies are mandated and will be enforced. While on patrol, Police Officers will provide face coverings to people they encounter who do not have one. Mahalo for your help. With all accepting kuleana, we can stop the spread of the virus to keep your family, friends, and neighbors safe. With the community’s involvement, we can keep Hawaiʻi Safe. Thank you for listening and please take care of each other." See hawaiicounty.gov/departments/civil-defense.
     See the Hawai‘i County COVID-19 webpage at
https://coronavirus-response-county-of-hawaii-hawaiicountygis.hub.arcgis.com/. Request travel exemptions for critical infrastructure and medical travel at https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/e2f4ce19aa854964a8fd60bec7fbe78c. Report violators of COVID-19 safety protocols or quarantine to non-emergency at 935-3311.
     COVID-19 case count in the U.S. is more than 6,356,310 – about 23 percent of worldwide cases. The death toll is more than 190,649 – about 21 percent of worldwide deaths. Worldwide, there are more than 27.69 million COVID-19 cases. The death toll is more than 899,932.

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.
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.

EVENTS
ʻO Kaʻū Kākou Food Giveaway in Ocean View, Saturday, Sept. 12 at 10 a.m. Pick-up will be at the Park and Ride parking lot. Pick-up will be at the back store. Ingredients for a hamburger steak dinner for four will consist of 2 lbs. of ground beef, gravy mix (just add 1 cup of water), onion, and rice to be distributed.

Introduction to Papermaking Workshop with Mary Milelzcik on Saturday, Sept. 12, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. This papermaking workshop, using a household blender, will introduce papermaking using recycled papers with various additives, including cotton linters, and local plant materials. volcanoartcenter.org/events, 967-8222

Exhibition Hawaiʻi Nei Invitational: Nā ʻAumākua, runs through Saturday, Sept. 12. Also available to view online, view the exhibition in person the Gallery in the Park during normal gallery hours, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday. Free. The exhibition is a group exhibition will present works focusing on the theme of Nā ʻAumākua, family gods. VAC will not hold an opening reception on August 8th. volcanoartcenter.org/events, 967-8222

Apply for Internships with Sen. Brian Schatz's office. Internships for undergrad, graduate, and law students are offered in the Honolulu and Washington D.C. offices. Applications are considered on a rolling basis year-round. Non-office internships are open for high school students to advocate in their communities. Applications due Sunday, Sept. 13. See schatz.senate.gov/services.

Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary Virtual Advisory Council Meeting, Tuesday, Sept. 159 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Presentations will include acoustic research, a proposal for voluntary speed regulations for ocean-going vessels in the sanctuary. Register in advance here.

ʻO Kaʻū Kākou Food Giveaway in Nāʻālehu, Friday, Sept. 18 at 10 a.m. Pick-up will be at the ʻO Kaʻū Kākou Market location. Ingredients for a hamburger steak dinner for four will consist of 2 lbs. of ground beef, gravy mix (just add 1 cup of water), onion, and rice to be distributed.

Catalyst Abstract Watercolor Workshop with Patti Pease Johnson on Saturday, Sept. 19, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. volcanoartcenter.org/events, 967-8222


Dine In or Order To Go Oktoberfest Meals from Crater Rim Café in Kīlauea Military Camp on Saturday, Sept. 19 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Menu offers Bratwurst, Knockwurst, Bockwurst, German Potato Salad, Sauerkraut, Tossed Salad, and German Chocolate Cake. $14.95 per person. Call 967-8356 to book a reservation for dine-in or place a grab-and-go order. Face coverings and 6 feet social distancing are required in common areas. KMC is open to all authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees may apply.

Design the 2021 Ocean Count T-Shirt for Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary by Sept. 30. Designs highlighting humpback whales in Hawaiian waters must be entirely the artist's own creation. To ensure the design looks its best when printed, submit as a high definition PDF, .AI, .EPS or PNG with a quality of at least 1500px x 1500px and 300 DPI (dots per inch) with dimensions no greater than 11.5 inches by 14 inches. Top finalists' designs will appear on oceancount.org, the winner's design on the back of the shirt. The winner will also receive $500. Email the design and completed registration form to oceancount@marinesancutary.org.

COVID-19 Information for Farm Workers Poster. English: https://bit.ly/2F3gJ3u;
English/Spanish: https://bit.ly/2Z0cihc; English/Marshallese: https://bit.ly/2QLbybk
ONGOING
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, and questions and feedback, and more. Go to KHPES website for Live WebEx link.

Pre-Register for Boys & Girls Club Mobile Outreach Program in Ocean View here. Completing the form does not guarantee a spot in the program. A staff member will reach out to eligible families, 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.

Free Tutors for Keiki in Pāhala, for grades one through six, will be available from Boys & Girls Club of the Big Island soon. Subjects are Homework Help, Social Studies, Reading, Writing, Math, Spelling, Test Taking Strategies, Organizational Skills, and more. Contact Boys & Girls Club at info@bgcbi.org or 961-5536.

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 Carla Lind and Mrs. Marcia Masters. 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, Mrs. VanNewkirk, Mrs. Heather Naboa, Mrs. Marcia Masters, and Mrs. 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? Call 313-4100.

Sign Up for Solid Waste Operations Alerts at https://member.everbridge.net/index/482552460607505#/signup. Receive notice via phone or email of 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.

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. The only time a face covering is needed is when the usher comes to the vehicle to pass out the 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, us02web.zoom.us/j/6843449828?pwd=YW94djVvU0szOGNKaFZ1V0pUL1owUT09, Meeting ID: 684 344 9828, Password: Aloha. Weekly hot meals, hot showers, the computer lab, and in-person services and bible studies are suspended.

One-Time Emergency Food for people is available through Big Island Giving Tree. Emergency food for pets is available through KARES. Call David or Barbara Breskin at 319-8333.

The Food Basket, last Tuesday of the month, Sept. 29, provides food at St. Jude's to those in need. See hawaiifoodbasket.org.

Emergency Boxes Available at Cooper Center Tuesday through Saturday 8 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. Call ahead, 967-7800.

Volcano Art Center, Niʻaulani Campus in Volcano Village, open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., closed Saturday and Sunday. The Gallery in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is open Wednesday through Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed Monday and Tuesday. Virtual Shopping Appointments are offered at Volcano Art Center locations. Via Skype or FaceTime, a VAC associate helps customers browse the selection of artwork up close, and gives personalized tips and recommendations to help customers "find that perfect piece of locally made artwork, wherever you are in the world!" Book appointment online for $5 and VAC staff will help schedule a date and time at volcanoartcenter.org/shop. Shop the online gallery 24/7. Orders are shipped as regularly scheduled. Free local pickup is available.VAC now offers a Virtual Classroom, which features over 90 videos. volcanoartcenter.org/events, 967-8222

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

Health and Fitness Website for Kūpuna808b-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

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.

Ocean View Swap Meet reopens Sept. 5 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.

Ocean View Community Market, open Saturdays and Wednesdays (starting next Wednesday, Aug. 12), 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., on the corner of Kona Drive and Highway 11, where Thai Grindz is located. New market location for vendors of the recently closed Ocean View Swap Meet. Managed by Mark Cocucci. Masks are mandatory. Limit of people is 100. Social distancing is required. Gate will be unlocked for vendors at 5:30 a.m. Vendors can show up without a reservation for now, with $15 dollars. Parking is in the upper lot; parking on the side of the road is prohibited. All vendors must provide their own sanitizer. All food vendors must have the permits required for the items that you are selling. Vendors and attendees are encouraged to carpool.

ʻO Kaʻū Kākou Market, in Nāʻālehu, open Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday, 8 a.m. to noon. The goal is no more than 50 customers on the grounds at a time. Vendor booths per day are limited to 25, with 30 feet of space between vendors. Masks and hand sanitizing are required to attend the market. Social distancing will be enforced. Contact Sue Barnett, OKK Market Manager, at 808-345-9374 (voice or text) or kaufarmer@aol.com for more and to apply to vend. See facebook.com/OKauKakouMarket.

Choose Aloha for Home is available to families, to provide a healthy way to grow together at chooselovemovement.org/choose-love-home, using neuroscience and positive psychology, children and parents alike can learn to better understand themselves and each other. The program uses a series of self-guided videos, activities, and "dinner table discussion topics," to teach families "how to manage their emotions, communicate in healthier ways, and create a nurturing environment focused on the things that matter most." Sign up at https://chooselovemovement.org/choose-love-home/.

ʻOhana Help Desk offers online How-To Guides for Chromebooks and iPads given out to distance learning students enrolled in Kaʻū public schools. The website is open to the public here. ʻOhana Help Desk is also available to students and parents by phone, Mondays through Fridays, 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., and on Sundays from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. It is closed on Saturdays and state holidays.

Ocean View Mobile Learning Lab operates weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at St. Jude's lower parking lot. It is open to students of Nāʻālehu Elementary and Kaʻū High & Pāhala Elementary, to connect to internet for distance learning. Questions? See khpes.org or call 313-4100.

Pāhala and Nāʻālehu Public Libraries are open for wifi, pick-up, and other services. Nāʻālehu is open Monday and Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Friday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Pāhala is open Tuesday from noon to 7 p.m. and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Library patrons may schedule Library Take Out appointment times to pick up their hold item(s) at their favorite libraries by going to HSPLS Library Catalog and placing a hold on any item(s) they want to borrow, they may call their favorite library branch to place a hold with the library staff, or they may go in-person to request items, without placing a hold. After receiving a notice that item(s) are ready for pick up, patrons schedule a Library Take Out time at picktime.com/hspls. Both locations are also open for library card account help and reference assistance from the front door. Wifi is available to anyone with a library card from each library parking lot by using their library card and PIN. For more information, visit librarieshawaii.org.

Free Book Exchanges, at the laundromats in Ocean View and Nāʻālehu, provided by Friends of the Kaʻū Libraries. Everyone is invited to take books they want to read. They may keep the books, pass them on to other readers, or return them to the Book Exchange to make them available to others in the community. The selection of books is replenished weekly at both sites.

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 Sept. 13, Oct. 11, Nov. 8, and Dec. 13, at 2 p.m. Follow @kau_womens_health_collective. Contact rootsmedieshawaii@gmail.com. Call 808-450-0498.

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. Access these remote services by completing the webform at hawaiifirstfcu.com/community-resource-center or by calling 808-933-6600 to sign up. The Financial Navigator will then send a short service agreement and call the client to begin their personal session. Organizations across the County can also refer clients directly to a Financial Navigator. For more information, contact Sharon Hirota at 808-961-8019.

Find Resources for LGBTQ+, Loved Ones, and Allies at Sexual and Gender Minority online resource hub. Hawaiʻi Department of Health's first website dedicated to LGBTQ+ resources. Developed by the Sexual and Gender Minority Workgroup in partnership with the DOH Harm Reduction Services Branch. Resources: Understanding the Pacific's alternative genders; Pronoun guide; Book lists for children and teens; ʻOhana support; and DOH data. For more information on joining the SGM Workgroup, email Thaddeus Pham at thaddeus.pham@doh.hawaii.gov. See health.hawaii.gov/harmreduction/sexual-gender-minority/sexual-and-gender-minorities-sgm-in-hawaii/.

Learn About Hawaiʻi's History & Culture through the Papakilo Database, a resource developed by The Office of Hawaiian Affairs. The Kahalo Center says database consists of "collections of data pertaining to historically and culturally significant places, events, and documents in Hawaiʻi's history. The purpose of this educational online repository is to increase the community's ability to preserve and perpetuate cultural and historical information and practices." See papakilodatabase.com.

Native Hawaiian Farmers and Ranchers urged to use U.S. Dept. of Ag On-Farm Market Directory. U.S. Office for American Indian, Alaskan Native, and Native Hawaiian Programs is developing a list of Native Hawaiian farmers willing to sell direct to consumers through the On-Farm Market Directory. On-farm markets are managed by a single farm operator that sells products on their farm, or on a property next to their farm. Some on-farm markets may also deliver or ship their goods directly to consumers. Visit the program website for more information and to register: ams.usda.gov/local-food-directories/onfarm.

Receive Free Marketing Assistance, for small businesses affected by COVID-19. Owners can receive free marketing assistance from Univeristy of Hawaiʻi-Hilo faculty and their senior class. They offer help with moving a business online, finding out more about the businesses' customers, analyzing marketing effectiveness, and providing customer service or website feedback. Visit https://bit.ly/2YvFxsl.

Find Grants and Loans Offered to Farmers and Ranchers, at oahuaca.org. The website has a new search feature to help find information that applies to the searcher.

Begin Learning Basics of Organic Farming, from two free modules of a virtual training program by the Organic Farming Research Foundation, the University of California Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education Program, and California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo. See https://kohalacenter.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=54bdd67c601f0c0d3ea430053&id=9e1691c22d&e=0e3fe20c1f.

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