Ka‘ū News Briefs Tuesday, October 10, 2017

Looking almost like a turtle shell, this is plastic was picked up last weekend from Kamilo Hema by

Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund volunteers as part of Get the Drift and Bag It. See story below.
Photo from Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund

THE MAKAHKI GROUNDS, Kahua Olohu, along Hwy. 11 between Nā‘ālehu and Honu‘apo Lookout, received approval for a stewardship grant from the Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Commission on Tuesday. The 13 acres along Hwy. 11, known for its historic value as an ancient Hawaiian site for games and celebration, was purchased by the county using the "Two Percent" PONC funds last November. The non-profit to receive and administer the funds is Ho‘omalu Ka‘ū.

Keoni Fox explained the stewardship plan to PONC, which
voted to approve a stewardship grant through Ho‘omalu Ka‘ū.
See PONC video. Photo from Big Island Video News

      During Monday's meeting, PONC commissioners reviewed the allowable expenditures for stewardship funding. They include such activities as archaeological surveys and buffering of native Hawaiian historical or cultural sites after appropriate consultation with native Hawaiian descendants and cultural practitioners. They  also include biological studies for the protection of native Hawaiian species of plants and animals, conservation of soil, forests, shoreline, native wildlife, streams, wetlands, watersheds and floodways. Wildfire and fire prevention is also allowable.
     Other allowable expenses include maintenance and public safety, repairs, mending, servicing, preservation, damage control, salvage, safekeeping and safeguarding.

Makahiki Grounds in Nā‘ālehu,
approved by PONC for stewardship.

    Keoni Fox, who is secretary for Ho‘omalu Ka‘ū, explained that pop up tents, tables, coolers and refreshments in the budget will be needed to provide safeguarding for volunteers who will take care of the historic site. He noted that the area is flat and hot, without water, and the volunteers will need shelter. "There is a lot of work to do and people will be working really hard in hot, sunny conditions."
     He also said that $3,000 in signage for the property would be part of safeguarding. "The whole property is a cultural site. We have to look at it through a different lens. When we have visitors and people from the community come, it is really important to put signage out there so they know what areas to be careful around."
     The budget also calls for $10,000 for lawn services to cut California grass and tall cane grass on the big, flat makahiki field, Fox explained.
     Fox assured commissioners that native plants would not be destroyed. He said an archaeological and botanical surveys were completed before the county purchased the land.

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Get the Drift and Bag It captured 1,759 lbs.
 of debris from the Ka‘ū Coast last Sunday.
Photo from Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund

VOLUNTEERS PULLED TRASH FROM KAMILO HEMA, the south end of Kamilo Point, this past Sunday, Oct. 8. The marine debris weighed in at 1,759 lbs. removed from the Ka‘ū Coast by 14 people.

Plastic washes to Ka‘ū Coast from Asia.
Photo from Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund

     Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund's truck hauled off 700 pounds of nets that floated ashore. The trailer carried away 534 lbs. of miscellaneous small debris in 42 bags. Volunteers loaded 125 lbs. of large marine debris onto the trailer. Two additional trucks carried away another 400 lbs.

    Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund documented the debris in more detail. It included 190 hagfish traps and 520 oyster spacers that drifted onto the Ka‘ū Coast from afar.

      Oyster spacers are found at marine oyster farms off the coast of Japan and are pulled into the open ocean by tidal waves and typhoons, floating more than 4,000 miles to the Ka‘ū Coast.
     Hagfish traps pick up these "slime eels" from the ocean floor, 300 feet and deeper where they scavenge off dead fish, even burying into the flesh of dead whales. Hagfish are relished as a delicacy food in Korea and used to make eel skin wallets.          

So remote, but so vulnerable to plastics washing into the Ka‘ū Coast 
at Kamilo Hema. Photo from Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund  

    Traps falling off California and Oregon hagfish boats, or abandoned on the seafloor are likely sources of the hagfish traps that wash up on the Ka‘ū shore. Among other marine debris recovered Sunday were 87 fishing buoys, pots and traps, along with 330 yards of rope.

      Among other marine debris recovered Sunday were 87 fishing buoys, pots and traps, along with 330 yards of rope.
     A syringe, a tire, a gas cylinder, foam food container, and 672 plastic bottle caps were pulled from the Ka‘ū Coast with some 10,000 pieces of tiny plastic trash.

     To sign up for the next Ka‘ū Coast Cleanup, contact
kahakai.cleanups@gmail.com and see wildhawaii.org.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter.

Ka‘ū Coffee Growers Cooperative Pres. Gloria Camba
(center) with Ka‘ū Coffee Farmer and Miss Ka‘ū Coffee
Director Trini Marques, meeting U.S. Rep. Tulsi
Gabbard regarding continuing Congressional support
for farmers. Photo by Maria Miranda

KA‘Ū COFFEE GROWERS COOPERATIVE has won a USDA Rural Development grant, after competing against agricultural interests nationwide. The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Socially-Disadvantaged Groups Grant for $175,000 will fund technical assistance for the coffee farmers to help develop their market and improve business practices. The grant, which targets cooperative and Cooperative Development Centers, will fund a marketing study and other research and management programs. The one other entity receiving funding this year in Hawai‘i is The Kohala Center.

      The Ka‘ū Coffee Growers Cooperative, under the leadership of President Gloria Camba, received broad community support for its grant application, from numerous local businesses and non-profits to university and government agencies that have worked with the farmers since they first started their journey to build a world class coffee industry.
      An advocate for continuing the farmer funding through the USDA is Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard who met with the farmers numerous times in recent years.
 
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Early Discovery Harbour volunteer firefighters Frank Belcher,
 Melvin McFillen, Harold McPherson, Richard Schultz, Walter
Ahnert and Harry Culbertson.
Photo from Discovery Harbour Volunteer Fire Department

THE HISTORY OF DISCOVERY HARBOUR VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT will be presented at a dinner this Saturday, Oct. 14, at Discovery Harbour Community Center at 5 p.m. Veteran and current volunteer firefighters will be honored. Certificates of Appreciation will come from the community and from County Council member Maile David, as well as a representative from the Hawai‘i County Fire Department and Mayor Harry Kim.

     Volunteer firefighters and their families from throughout Ka‘ū will be thanked, including veteran Discovery Harbour Second Commander James Masters, Discovery Harbour Capt. Ken and Dina Shisler, Pāhala Capt. Ron and Nadine Ebert, veteran Ocean View Capt. Mack Goddard and Ocean View Capt. Wade and Cynthia Baji.

      A wall of photos, with two original helmets used in 1988, and an album with facts and photos from past to present will be unveiled. For more information call Dina Shisler at 410-935-8087 or email dinashisler24@yahoo.com.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter.

Pick up the October edition of The Ka'ū Calendar delivered
free to 5,500 mailboxes throughout Ka'ū, from Miloli'i 
through Volcano. Also available on stands throughout
the district. See it online now at kaucalendar.com 

UPCOMING FALL TROJAN SPORTS:

Girls Volleyball 

Wednesday, Oct. 11, Ka'ū vs. Kohala, away.

Friday, Oct. 13, Ka'ū vs. Honoka'a, home.

Eight-Man Football

Saturday, Oct. 21, Ka'ū vs. Pāhoa, home.

Cross Country

Saturday, Oct. 13, Ka'ū vs. BIIF, away.

Cheerleading

Wednesday, Oct. 18, at Kamehameha.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter.

CU HAWAI`I FEDERAL CREDIT UNION IS OFFERING EMPLOYMENT as a Member Service Representative in Na`alehu. CU Hawai`i seeks energetic individuals for full time positions who enjoy working with people and can provide professional, courteous and efficient service to valued members. The ideal candidate must be service oriented and possess good communication and computer skills. Cash handling and customer service experience is preferred. Must be able to work Saturdays. CU Hawai`i offers medical, drug, dental, vision and retirement benefits.
     Email mail or fax application to : Attn: Human Resources, 476 Hinano Street Hilo, HI 96720 , Fax: (808) 935-7793. Applications can be found online at https://www.cuhawaii.com/careers.html.  

INPUT FOR THE FUTURE OF HAWAI‘I COUNTY TRANSPORTATION SERVICES, including the Hele On Bus that takes many Ka‘ū residents to work, school and shopping, is invited at five meetings outside of Ka‘ū. Those unable to attend may contact Ka‘ū's County Council member Maile David at maile.david@hawaiicounty.gov or email the consultants directly at heleonsuggestions@ssfm.com.
     Meetings are from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.: tomorrow, Wednesday, Oct. 11, at Kea‘au Community Center (16-186 Pili Mua St.); Thursday, Oct. 12, at Pāhoa Neighborhood Facility (15-2910 Kauhale St.); Thursday, Oct. 19, at Waimea Elementary School; and Tuesday, Oct. 24, at Aunty Sally Kaleohano’s Lu‘au Hale in Hilo.
     To request special assistance or an auxiliary aid to attend the event, contact Jo-Anna Herkes, SSFM International at 808-356-1260 at least 5 days prior to the event.  

LOMI, the traditional massage practice of Hawaiian people, will be demonstrated tomorrow, Wednesday, Oct. 11, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. by practitioner Annie Erbe in a free workshop on the lānai of Kīlauea Visitor Center at Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Most of the many styles of lomi are a way to heal body and mind. The workshop is part of Hawai‘i Volcanoes’ ‘Ike Hana No‘eau “Experience the Skillful Work.”

A HISTORY OF THE KAHUA HULA, will be given at the Volcano Art Center Thursday, Oct. 12, at 7 p.m. Photographer and VAC founder Boone Morrison discusses the construction, history, and dedication of the hula platform near VAC Gallery in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Attendance is free, though $5 donations are appreciated. For more, call 967-8222.

RED CROSS VOLUNTEERS and those interested in becoming volunteers are invited to meet Thursday, Oct. 12, at 7 p.m., in the HOVE Road Maintenance Corp. office. For more, call Hannah Uribes at 929-9953.

ADULTS ARE INVITED TO REGISTER UNTIL FRIDAY, OCT. 13, for a Mold Ceramics class that takes place from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Mondays, Oct. 16 through Dec. 4. at Pāhala Community Center. For more, call 928-3102.

VOLUNTEERS ARE NEEDED TO HELP REMOVE INVASIVE, NON-NATIVE PLANT SPECIES that prevent native plants from growing in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This Stewardship at the Summit event will take place three more times in October - Fridays, Oct. 13 & 27, and Saturday, Oct. 21, at 9 a.m.
     To join the efforts, meet project leaders Paul and Jane Field at Kīlauea Visitor Center at 8:45 a.m. on any of the aforementioned dates. Volunteers should wear sturdy hiking shoes and long pants and bring a hat, rain-gear, day pack, snacks and water. Gloves and tools will be provided. No advance registration is required, and there is no cost to participate, but park entrance fees apply. Visit the park website for additional planning details: nps.gov/havo/planyourvisit/summit_stewardship.htm.

FAR FROM THE TREE opens to the public on Saturday, Oct. 14, and runs through Sunday, Nov. 12, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily at Volcano Art Center Gallery in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park.   

      The reception with both artists is Saturday, Oct. 14, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

The mixed media exhibition showcases Peterson’s detailed acrylic paintings and Smith’s segmented, wood turned vessels made mostly of Hawaiian hardwoods. The exhibit features hand painted wooden bowls that combine both artists’ talents.

      For more information, visit volcanoartcenter.org or contact VAC Gallery Manager Emily C. Weiss by calling (808) 967-8222 or emailing gallery@volcanoartcenter.org.

ATLAS RECYCLING ACCEPTS RECYCLABLES AT SOUTH POINT U-CART again on Saturday, Oct. 14, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

TWO EVENTS WILL BE HOSTED BY KĪLAUEA MILITARY CAMP in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park on Saturday, Oct. 14.

     From 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.: Kīlauea Military Camp's Crater Rim Café offers a Mongolian BBQ. Call 967-8356 for more details. Starting at 8 p.m.: Kīlauea Military Camp’s Lava Lounge offers Comedy Night with comedian Tom Clark. Call 967-8371 for more.

     Both events are open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply.

KANIKAPILA welcomes acoustic instrumentalists, drummers, singers and dancers on Saturdays, Oct. 14 and 28, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Nā‘ālehu Methodist Church Hall. For more, call Desmond at 937-6305.

EXPLORE THE HUMAN HISTORY OF KAHUKU, on a three-hour guided moderate two-mile hike, People and Land of Kahuku, in Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park on Sunday, Oct. 15, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Emerging native forests, pastures, lava fields, and other sites hold clues about ways people have lived and worked on the vast Kahuku lands– from the earliest Hawaiians, through generations of ranching families, to the current staff and volunteers of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Learn about the powerful natural forces at work here and how people have adapted to, shaped, and restored this land. The guided hike is also offered on Nov. 19 and Dec. 17.

THE PUBLIC IS INVITED BY MEMBERS of the Bahá'í faith of Ka‘ū to a dinner and open house on Saturday, Oct. 21, from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Pāhala Community Center. The event celebrates the 200th anniversary of the birth of the religion's founder. The faith works toward a global civilization which takes into account both the spiritual and material dimensions of human life. Teachings center around the recognition of the oneness of humanity and “offer a compelling vision of a future world united in justice, peace and prosperity,” says a statement from organizers. To read more about the Bahá’í faith, see bahai.us/bicentenary-resources. To contact the Bahá’í’s of Ka‘ū and to R.S.V.P. for the Oct. 21 gathering, contact Sandra Demoruelle. Email naalehutheatre@yahoo.com or phone 929-9244.

REGISTER KEIKI AGES 5-12 FOR A HALLOWEEN MASK MAKING CLASS that takes place Wednesday, Oct. 25, from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m., at the Nā‘ālehu Community Center. Register through Friday, Oct. 20. For more, call 939-2510.

Ka‘ū News Briefs Monday, October 9, 2017

Sunrise onto peaceful Discovery Harbour, as captured by photographer Peter Anderson.

HEED REPUBLICAN SENATOR'S WARNINGS about Pres. Donald Trump's repeated calling out of North Korea, advised Hawai‘i Sen. Brian Schatz in national media outlets on Sunday. Schatz was referring to Republican Senator Bob Corker saying that Trump threatening other countries could lead the U.S. on "the path to World War III."

Schatz says to heed Republican
Senator's warning of war.

     Schatz tweeted that "War on Korean Peninsula could shut down trade to and from Asia for months or years." He tweeted, "War on the Korean Peninsula would cause millions of lives to be lost." He noted that "There are nearly 200,000 Americans living in South Korea and Japan."
     Over the weekend, Trump said North Korea made "fools of the U.S. negotiators." He tweeted, "Sorry, but only one thing will work!" When reporters asked Trump what he meant, he said they would soon find out.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter.

HAWAI‘I AIR NATIONAL GUARD IS MAKING FLIGHTS TO PUERTO RICO. The Air Guard was dispatched by Gov. David Ige last week to assist with relief efforts after the devastating Hurricane Maria struck the island. A statement from the Ige team: "With more than three million U.S. citizens residing in Puerto Rico, Governor Ige knows how imperative it is to continue to provide support to our our fellow citizens, not only in the aftermath but also throughout the long recovery period to come.

The flag of Puerto Rico with flowers.

     "Twenty-five years ago, Hurricane Iniki devastated the island of Kaua‘i, and we cannot forget the long road they faced when recovering and rebuilding. We were horrified to witness the damages caused by Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico. In times of crisis, we are reminded that the people of Hawai‘i always come together and support our friends and family when they are the most in need... government is a shared responsibility. From environmental issues to immigrant rights and now disaster relief..."

Gov. David Ige with Hawai‘i National Guard
Troops dispatched to Puerto Rico.
Photo from Hawai‘i Dept. of Defense

       The statement noted that "Weeks later, the entire island is still in need of necessities like running water, access to fuel, and electricity. The road to rebuilding these communities will be long and difficult."

C-17 Globemaster III.
Photo from Hawai‘i Dept. of Defense

      Members of the Hawai‘i Air Guard left Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam last Monday on a C-17 Globemaster III cargo aircraft. Aboard were two flight crews and maintenance personnel. They picked up more personnel and supplies from Fairchild Air Force Base in Washington State and flew to Charleston Air Force Base in South Carolina, where they are making flights with relief supplies and a disaster relief crew with bedding, tents and other supplies to Puerto Rico. They are also able to make relief flights to the U.S. Virgin Islands.

     A fundraiser for Puerto Rico relief was co-sponsored last weekend by east Ka‘ū Senator Russell Ruderman.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter.

A TOWN HALL FOR EAST KA‘Ū SENATE DISTRICT 3 will be at Volcano Art Center campus on Wednesday, Oct. 25, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. State Sen. Russell Ruderman hosts the meeting and promises "an evening of legislative discussion and insight. Take advantage of this opportunity to weigh in on the 2018 legislative session. Additional information will be provided about participating directly in the legislative process." The address is 19-4074 Old Volcano Rd.
     A separate meeting will be held in Puna on Tuesday, Oct. 24, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Pāhoa Community Center, 15-2910 Ku‘uhome St.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter.

A PĀHALA FARMER IS THE NEW STATE V.P. FOR HAWAI‘I FARMERS UNION UNITED. During last weekend's Hawai‘i Farmers Union United Convention on O‘ahu, Kyle Suder, who grows corn and other crops on the Hester Farm above Pāhala, was elected Vice President. Suder, who was also recently elected President of the Ka‘ū chapter, said, "I hope to bring a louder voice for Ka‘ū farmers at the state level. I'm focused on the Ka‘ū farmer's needs and I hope to meet and hear from more Ka‘ū farmers to see how the farmers union can help support them."
     In Ka‘ū, Suder's leadership is supported locally by Vice President Greg Smith, who operates Earth Matters Farms at Kama‘oa Road and South Point Road, and Secretary/Treasurer Raina Whiting, a Nā‘ālehu School teacher and school garden and community Farm School advocate.

Hawai‘i Farmers Union: Simon Russel, HFUF president; Keith Ranney, 
Communications director; Karen Reid, Treasurer; Raina Whiting, 
Ka‘ū Chapter Secretary/Treasurer; Irene Plunkett Mina, Maui member; Kyle 
Studer, Vice President HFUU and Ka‘ū Chapter President; Vincent Mina,
HFUU President; Sean Robinson, Waimānalo Chapter President; and
Christian Zuckerman, Waianae Chapter President.

     During the convention, Hawai‘i Farmers Union United received its charter from the National Farmers Union. Its President Roger Johnson arrived from its headquarters in Washington, D.C to provide the first charter issued to any state in the last decade.
     National Farmers Union was founded in 1902 to protect and work with family farms and ranches. It cooperates with organizations, such as the U.S. Cattlemen's Association. It recently joined more than 200 groups to urge Congress to level the playing field for farmers workers and consumers through fair competition in the food system. It also works on climate issues relating to agriculture. See nfu.org.
     For more on Hawai‘i Farmers Union United, see hfuuhi.org.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter.

HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS OF DREAMERS, "are at risk of deportation because of the Trump administration’s decision to end DACA," Sen. Mazie Hirono emailed today. "Ending DACA is a cruel and hateful way to treat people who were brought here as children – people who work hard for a better life and contribute to our society and our economy.

       "I will keep fighting to give these young people the opportunities this country gave me, and I’m standing with DREAMers in Hawai‘i and across the country. She asks that constituents sign up to tell congress to Defend DACA and protect these DREAMers.

      The Trump administration today announced conditions to proposed legislation related to the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, which allows those who grew up here with illegal parents to stay in the country. He tied it to building a wall between the U.S. and Mexico, increasing internal enforcement, and reforming the immigration system. The dispute could lead to a government shutdown, some Democrats warned today.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter.

Ka‘ū High School's Homecoming Court, who reigned over a winning weekend with a 60-0 win by the
Trojan football team on Saturday, are, left to right: Juniors Keala Liu and Reishalyn Jara, Seniors Brandon Echalas and Malie Ibarra, King and football star Zachary Kai, Queen Dacy Davis-Andrade (center), Sophomores Kyson Toriano and Marilou Manantan, and Freshmen Lentron Jara and Johnette Llanes-Masters. Photo by Pamela Taylor

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter.

Pick up the October edition of The Ka'ū Calendar delivered
free to 5,500 mailboxes throughout Ka'ū, from Miloli'i 
through Volcano. Also available on stands throughout
the district. See it online now at kaucalendar.com 

UPCOMING FALL TROJAN SPORTS:

Girls Volleyball 

Wednesday, Oct. 11, Ka'ū vs. Kohala, away.

Friday, Oct. 13, Ka'ū vs. Honoka'a, home.

Eight-Man Football

Saturday, Oct. 21, Ka'ū vs. Pāhoa, home.

Cross Country

Saturday, Oct. 13, Ka'ū vs. BIIF, away.

Cheerleading

Wednesday, Oct. 18, at Kamehameha.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter.

REGISTER KEIKI GRADES K-8 FOR PAPER PLATE SILHOUETTE CRAFT, between until Tuesday, Oct. 17, for the class that takes place on Wednesday, Oct. 18, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., at the Pāhala Community Center. For more, call 928-3102.

Last week's Harvest Moon over Ka‘ū, as captured
by photographer Peter Anderson.

INPUT IS INVITED FOR THE FUTURE OF HAWAI‘I COUNTY TRANSPORTATION SERVICES, including the Hele On Bus that takes many Ka‘ū residents to work, school and shopping. Those unable to attend may contact Ka‘ū's County Council member Maile David at maile.david@hawaiicounty.gov or email the consultants directly at heleonsuggestions
@ssfm.com with input.
     Meetings are from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.: Wednesday, Oct. 11, Kea‘au Community Center (16-186 Pili Mua St.); Thursday, Oct. 12, Pāhoa Neighborhood Facility (15-2910 Kauhale St.); Thursday, Oct. 19, Waimea Elementary School; and Tuesday, Oct. 24, Aunty Sally Kaleohano’s Lu‘au Hale in Hilo.
     To request special assistance or an auxiliary aid to attend the event, contact Jo-Anna Herkes, SSFM International at 808-356-1260 at least 5 days prior to the event.

LOMI, the traditional massage practice of Hawaiian people, will be demonstrated by practitioner Annie Erbe in a free workshop on the lānai of Kīlauea Visitor Center at Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Most of the many styles of lomi are a way to heal body and mind. The workshop is part of Hawai‘i Volcanoes’ ‘Ike Hana No‘eau “Experience the Skillful Work” and will take place on Wednesday, Oct. 11, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

A HISTORY OF THE KAHUA HULA, will be given at the Volcano Art Center tomorrow, Thursday, Oct. 12, at 7 p.m. Photographer and VAC founder Boone Morrison discusses construction, history, and dedication of the hula platform near VAC Gallery in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Attendance is free, though $5 donations are appreciated. For more, call 967-8222.

RED CROSS VOLUNTEERS and those interested in becoming volunteers are invited to meet tomorrow, Thursday, Oct. 12, at 7 p.m., in the HOVE Road Maintenance Corp. office. For more, call Hannah Uribes at 929-9953.

ADULTS ARE INVITED TO REGISTER UNTIL FRIDAY, OCT. 13, for a Mold Ceramics class that takes place from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Mondays, Oct. 16 through Dec. 4. at Pāhala Community Center. For more, call 928-3102.

VOLUNTEERS CAN HELP REMOVE INVASIVE, NON-NATIVE PLANT SPECIES that prevent native plants from growing in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Stewardship at the Summit takes place three more times in October - Fridays, Oct. 13 and 27, and Saturday, Oct. 21, at 9 a.m.
     Meet project leaders Paul and Jane Field at Kīlauea Visitor Center at 8:45 a.m.. Volunteers wear sturdy hiking shoes and long pants and bring hat, rain-gear, day pack, snacks and water. Gloves and tools will be provided. No advance registration is required, and there is no cost to participate, but park entrance fees apply. Visit the park website for additional planning details: nps.gov/havo/planyourvisit/summit_stewardship.htm.

FAR FROM THE TREE, a new Volcano Art Center art exhibit featuring Linda Peterson and Gregg Smith, opens Saturday, Oct. 14, and runs through Sunday, Nov. 12, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily at the Volcano Art Center Gallery in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. An opening reception with both artists is on Saturday, Oct. 14, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

     The mixed media exhibition showcases each artists’ specialty, Peterson’s detailed acrylic paintings and Smith’s segmented, wood turned vessels made mostly of Hawaiian hardwoods. It also features a collaborative collection of hand painted wooden bowls that combine both artists’ talents.  For more information, visit volcanoartcenter.org or contact VAC Gallery Manager Emily C. Weiss by calling (808) 967-8222 or emailing gallery@volcanoartcenter.org.

ATLAS RECYCLING ACCEPTS RECYCLABLES AT SOUTH POINT U-CART again on Saturday, Oct. 14, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

TWO EVENTS WILL BE HOSTED BY KĪLAUEA MILITARY CAMP in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park on Saturday, Oct. 14. From 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., Crater Rim Café offers a Mongolian BBQ. Call 967-8356 for more details. At 8 p.m., Lava Lounge offers Comedy Night with Tom Clark. Call 967-8371 for more. Both events are open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply.

KANIKAPILA welcomes acoustic instrumentalists, drummers, singers and dancers on Saturdays, Oct. 14 and 28, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Nā‘ālehu Methodist Church Hall. For more, call Desmond at 937-6305.

EXPLORE THE HUMAN HISTORY OF KAHUKU, on a three-hour guided moderate two-mile hike, People and Land of Kahuku, that loops through varied landscapes in the Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park on Sunday, Oct. 15, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Emerging native forests, pastures, lava fields, and other sites hold clues about ways people have lived and worked on the vast Kahuku lands– from the earliest Hawaiians, through generations of ranching families, to the current staff and volunteers of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Learn about the powerful natural forces at work here and how people have adapted to, shaped, and restored this land. The guided hike is also offered on Nov. 19 and Dec. 17.

REGISTER KEIKI AGES 5-12 FOR A HALLOWEEN MASK MAKING CLASS that takes place Wednesday, Oct. 25, from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m., at the Nā‘ālehu Community Center. Register through Friday, Oct. 20. For more, call 939-2510.

Ka‘ū News Briefs Sunday, October 8, 2017

Spirit Week on the Ka‘ū High School and Pāhala Elementary School campus led to an historic victory for the Ka‘ū High
 Trojans football team, cutting out the Cowboys, of Kohala, with a 60-0 score. Ka‘ū Trojan cheerleaders led the fans on 
campus and at the game. Photo by Kalei Namohala

AN HISTORIC VICTORY: KA‘Ū SCORED 60, KOHALA 0 on Saturday, as the Trojans Eight-Man Football team cut out the Cowboys at home in Pāhala.
     The punishment pumped up the Trojans in the first quarter with three touchdowns. B. Echalas ran 38 yards to cross the goal line followed by two extra points. Z. Kai made a four-yard run, followed by two extra points by J. Badua. Kai wrapped up the first quarter, running 56 yards for the final touchdown and score of 22-0.

Isaiah Pilanca-Emmsley ran and passed for
 touchdowns. Photo by Dave Berry

         Second quarter saw four more touchdowns. I. Pilanca-Emmsley ran for 26 yards. M. Keliikoa-Kalua intercepted the ball and ran 60 yards to bump up the score to 34-0. Kai passed to Pilanca-Emmsley - a 28-yard reception for more on the scoreboard. Pilanca-Emmsley passed to Badua with a 19-yard reception and touchdown extending the half-time lead, Ka‘ū 46, Kohala 0.

       Third quarter was scoreless. In the fourth quarter, Badua ran a yard to push the points to 52. Pilanca-Emmsley made a two-yard shuffle to W. Davis to make the final score, ending the game with a 60-0 victory for the Trojans to top off Ka‘ū High's Spirit Week.
     Eight-Man Football is a higher scoring game, with more running than the traditional football played by the Trojans for most of the high school's history. It was suggested by Athletic Director Kalei Namohala as a way to help the school be more competitive since it is one of the smaller enrollment schools in the state. Her efforts led to the establishment of Eight-Man Football in Hawai‘i and Ka‘ū has come home with championships in recent years.
   The final game of the season will be played at home on Saturday, Oct. 21, against Pāhoa at 1 p.m.
   The coach is DuWayne Ke.

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Eight-man football was a high scoring game for Trojans Saturday.
Photo by Dave Berry

Trojans cut the Cowboys out of the
competition for a 60-0 home team win.
Photo by Dave Berry

Zach Kai catches interception and 
rules as Homecoming King.
Photo by Pam Taylor

UPCOMING FALL TROJAN SPORTS:

Girls Volleyball 

Wednesday, Oct. 11, Ka'ū vs. Kohala, away.

Friday, Oct. 13, Ka'ū vs. Honoka'a, home.

Eight-Man Football

Saturday, Oct. 21, Ka'ū vs. Pāhoa, home.

Cross Country

Saturday, Oct. 13, Ka'ū vs. BIIF, away.

Cheerleading

Wednesday, Oct. 18, at
 Kamehameha.

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HAWAI‘I WILL CONTEST PRES. DONALD TRUMP'S third travel ban. U.S. District Court Judge Derrick Kahala Watson is giving state Attorney General Doug Chin until Tuesday morning to file a motion. The Trump administration has until next Saturday to respond. The new travel ban, which would take effect Wednesday, Oct. 18, adds Chad and North Korea and a few Venezuela government officials to the ban. Said Chin, "Hawai‘i fought the first and second travel bans because they were illegal and unconstitutional efforts to implement the president's Muslim ban. Unfortunately, the third travel ban is more of the same." The brief filed by Hawai‘i on Thursday says the new travel ban "flouts the immigration laws' express prohibition on nationality discrimination, grossly exceeds the authority Congress delegated to the president, lacks any rational connection to the problems it purports to address and seems to effectuate the president's promise to ban Muslims from the United States."

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Hawai‘i Attorney General Doug Chin. Photo from HPR

HAWAI‘I AND 17 OTHER STATES WARNED PRES. DONALD TRUMP that they will see legal action for his administration's "discriminatory, ill-considered, and dangerous move to effectively end the contraception coverage rule created by the Affordable Care Act. 

     On Friday, the 18 attorneys general wrote Acting Secretary of Health and Human Services Don Wright, Secretary of Labor R. Alexander Acosta, and Secretary of Treasury Steven Mnuchin "expressing their strong opposition to the Trump administration's action that will increase healthcare costs for women, lead to more unplanned pregnancies and place even more strain in state budgets," says a statement from the AG's office.

       Chin said, “We are talking about basic access to health care for women. Contraception provides women the autonomy they deserve. It’s also used to treat a variety of serious conditions having nothing to do with birth control. And the public has had no opportunity to comment.” 

   The statement from the Hawai‘i AG's office says, "For millions of women the contraception coverage rule has reduced their healthcare costs, helped address medical conditions, and allowed them to make their own decisions about when and if to have children. Before the contraception coverage rule, birth control accounted for 30-44 percent of a woman’s out-of-pocket healthcare costs. Now, 62 million women across the country have access to contraception without a co-pay, saving an average of $255 per year for oral pill contraceptives, and the percentage of women who have a co-pay for contraception has fallen from more than 20 percent to less than 4 percent."

     The letter from the 18 attorneys general to the Trump administration says, “Allowing any employer or insurance company with a religious or ‘moral’ objection to contraception to opt out of this requirement will take away women’s autonomy to make their own reproductive decisions and put those decisions in the hands of their employers. Subjecting women to the religious and moral beliefs of their employers violates the right to privacy that is so evident in Supreme Court doctrine. Women should have coverage for their critical health care just as men do.”

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TO EMPOWER HAWAI‘I'S COMMUNITIES to live more sustainably, strengthen local and regional food systems, and for those growing food, to feed Hawaiʻi's people are aspirations expressed by U.S. Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard who addressed the annual Hawai‘i Farmers Union United Convention on Saturday. She talked about "leveling the field, rather than more giveaways to big, agribusiness corporations," according to a statement from Gabbard.

Rep. Tulsi Gabbard called for strengthening local food systems during

the state annual convention of Hawai‘i Farmers Union United.
Photo from Office of Tulsi Gabbard

     Pāhala corn and vegetable farmer Kyle Studer, who is President of the Ka‘ū Farmers Union Chapter, and Nā‘ālehu teacher and candidate for state House of Representatives Raina Whiting, who is Secretary-Treasurer, represented Ka‘ū at the three day event. It was held at Kahumana Farms in Wai‘anae on O‘ahu.
     The congresswoman recognized the Hawaiʻi chapter's accomplishment in achieving charter status with the National Farmers Union and spoke about opportunities for Hawaiʻi in the upcoming 2018 federal farm bill.
     The convention brought together members of the National Farmers Union, including NFU President Roger Johnson, NFU leadership from across the country, local farmers, small business owners, and others "to explore the concepts of Aloha 'Āina and Mālama 'Āina to create regenerative agricultural systems for Hawaiʻi," said a statement from Gabbard. 

     This year's conference included panels and presentations on polyculture cover crops, agro ecology systems, soil and human health, hemp in Hawaiʻi, sustainable and organic farming.
     Gabbard said, "as a community, we have great potential for Hawaiʻi to empower our local farmers, strengthen our food security, secure funding for critical research, and empower our local communities through locally grown agriculture. Over the last several years, we've seen a rise in local farm-to-school programs, improved value of our coffee industries, and increased engagement among our local community to buy local and invest in community farming. There is much to be done to build on these successes, and events like today's bring together all the necessary community components to make it happen." See video of Gabbard's speech.

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Pick up the October edition of The Ka'ū Calendar delivered
free to 5,500 mailboxes throughout Ka'ū, from Miloli'i 
through Volcano. Also available on stands throughout
the district. See it online now at kaucalendar.com 

PUBLIC INPUT FOR HELE-ON and other county transportation services is welcomed at five County of Hawai‘i meetings around the island outside of Ka‘ū. Those unable to attend can submit suggestions to County Council member Maile David at maile.david@hawaiicounty.gov or the consultants directly at heleonsuggestions@ssfm.com.
     Meetings include a short presentation, posters and input tables. They are open to all from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.: Monday, Oct. 9, at West Hawai‘i Civic Center in Kona; Wednesday, Oct. 11, at Kea‘au Community Center (16-186 Pili Mua St.); Thursday, Oct. 12, at Pāhoa Neighborhood Facility (15-2910 Kauhale St.); Thursday, Oct. 19, at Waimea Elementary School; and Tuesday, Oct. 24, at Aunty Sally Kaleohano’s Lu‘au Hale in Hilo.
     To request special assistance or an auxiliary aid to attend the event, contact Jo-Anna Herkes, SSFM International at 808-356-1260 at least 5 days prior to the event.

SENIOR ID'S FOR AGES 60 AND UP WILL BE ISSUED MONDAY, Oct. 9, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at St. Jude’s Church in Ocean View. For more, call 928-3100.

THE KOHALA CENTER'S HIGH SCHOOL SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE PROGRAM STARTS TOMORROW, Monday, Oct. 9, and continues through Friday, Oct. 13, at TKC's Demonstration Farm in Honka’a, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The Kohala Center's Rural and Cooperative Business Development Services says, “The weeklong program features hands-on training in sustainable agriculture practices and visits to important traditional Hawaiian agricultural sites and farms. Students will also learn about opportunities in farming and supporting Hawai'i's food security. Contact Dave Sansone at 808-887-6411 or dsansone@kohalacenter.org for more information.”

REGISTER KEIKI GRADES K-8 FOR PAPER PLATE SILHOUETTE CRAFT, until Tuesday, Oct. 17, for the class that takes place on Wednesday, Oct. 18, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., at the Pāhala Community Center. For more, call 928-3102.

INPUT FOR THE FUTURE OF HAWAI‘I COUNTY TRANSPORTATION SERVICES, including the Hele On Bus that takes many Ka‘ū residents to work, school and shopping, is invited at five meetings outside of Ka‘ū. Those unable to attend may contact Ka‘ū's County Council member Maile David at maile.david@hawaiicounty.gov or email the consultants directly at heleonsuggestions@ssfm.com.
     Meetings are from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on: Monday, Oct. 9, at West Hawai‘i Civic Center in Kona; Wednesday, Oct. 11, at Kea‘au Community Center (16-186 Pili Mua St.); Thursday, Oct. 12, at Pāhoa Neighborhood Facility (15-2910 Kauhale St.); Thursday, Oct. 19, at Waimea Elementary School; and Tuesday, Oct. 24, at Aunty Sally Kaleohano’s Lu‘au Hale in Hilo.
     To request special assistance or an auxiliary aid to attend the event, contact Jo-Anna Herkes, SSFM International at 808-356-1260 at least 5 days prior to the event.

LOMI, the traditional massage practice of Hawaiian people, will be demonstrated by practitioner Annie Erbe in a free workshop on the lānai of Kīlauea Visitor Center at Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Most of the many styles of lomi are a way to heal body and mind. The workshop is part of Hawai‘i Volcanoes’ ‘Ike Hana No‘eau “Experience the Skillful Work” and will take place on Wednesday, Oct. 11, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

A HISTORY OF THE KAHUA HULA, will be given at the Volcano Art Center tomorrow, Thursday, Oct. 12, at 7 p.m. Photographer and VAC founder Boone Morrison discusses the construction, history, and dedication of the hula platform near VAC Gallery in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Attendance is free, though $5 donations are appreciated. For more, call 967-8222.

RED CROSS VOLUNTEERS and those interested in becoming volunteers are invited to meet tomorrow, Thursday, Oct. 12, at 7 p.m., in the HOVE Road Maintenance Corp. office. For more, call Hannah Uribes at 929-9953.

ADULTS ARE INVITED TO REGISTER UNTIL FRIDAY, OCT. 13, for a Mold Ceramics class from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Mondays, Oct. 16 through Dec. 4. at Pāhala Community Center. For more, call 928-3102.

VOLUNTEERS ARE NEEDED TO HELP REMOVE INVASIVE, NON-NATIVE PLANT SPECIES that prevent native plants from growing in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This Stewardship at the Summit event will take place three more times in October - Fridays, Oct. 13 & 27, and Saturday, Oct. 21, at 9 a.m.
     To join the efforts, meet project leaders Paul and Jane Field at Kīlauea Visitor Center at 8:45 a.m. on any of the aforementioned dates. Volunteers should wear sturdy hiking shoes and long pants and bring a hat, rain-gear, day pack, snacks and water. Gloves and tools will be provided. No advance registration is required, and there is no cost to participate, but park entrance fees apply. Visit the park website for additional planning details: nps.gov/havo/planyourvisit/summit_stewardship.htm.

FAR FROM THE TREE is a new Volcano Art Center art exhibit featuring Linda Peterson and Gregg Smith. The exhibition is open to the public on Saturday, Oct. 14, and runs through Sunday, Nov. 12, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily at the Volcano Art Center Gallery in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park.   

      A special opening reception with both artists occurs Saturday, Oct. 14, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

The mixed media exhibition showcases each artists’ specialty, including Peterson’s detailed acrylic paintings and Smith’s segmented, wood turned vessels made mostly of Hawaiian hardwoods. The exhibit also features a collaborative collection of hand painted wooden bowls that combine both artists’ talents.

      Volcano Art Center invites all to come view this collection of two and three dimensional works. For more information, visit volcanoartcenter.org or contact VAC Gallery Manager Emily C. Weiss by calling (808) 967-8222 or emailing gallery@volcanoartcenter.org.

ATLAS RECYCLING ACCEPTS RECYCLABLES AT SOUTH POINT U-CART again on Saturday, Oct. 14, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

TWO EVENTS WILL BE HOSTED BY KĪLAUEA MILITARY CAMP in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park on Saturday, Oct. 14.

     From 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.: Kīlauea Military Camp's Crater Rim Café offers a Mongolian BBQ. Call 967-8356 for more details.

     Starting at 8 p.m.: Kīlauea Military Camp’s Lava Lounge offers Comedy Night with comedian Tom Clark. Call 967-8371 for more.
     Both events are open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply.

KANIKAPILA welcomes acoustic instrumentalists, drummers, singers and dancers on Saturdays, Oct. 14 and 28, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Nā‘ālehu Methodist Church Hall. For more, call Desmond at 937-6305.

REGISTER KEIKI AGES 5-12 FOR A HALLOWEEN MASK MAKING CLASS that takes place Wednesday, Oct. 25, from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m., at the Nā‘ālehu Community Center. Register through Friday, Oct. 20. For more, call 939-2510.