Ka‘ū News Briefs Sunday, October 15, 2017

USGS reported scattered breakouts over the weekend on the western 61g flow of Kilauea Volcano.
Small pāhoehoe breakouts put on a show as they slowly oozed out of growing cracks that were
forced open by flow inflation. See the new film Kīlauea Summit Eruption: Lava Returns to Halema‘uma‘u.
Photo from USGS

HAWAIIAN VOLCANO OBSERVATORY GEOLOGISTS, who are based at Jaggar Museum overlooking Kīlauea Crater in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, recently relocated a time-lapse camera on the rim of the west pit lava pond in Pu‘u ‘Ō‘ō crater. Over the past several months, the camera has been slowly tilting downward due to soft, altered ground beneath it, and the general instability of the rim. The new location, about 20 m (21.9 yards) to the south, appears to be more stable and less altered. Weak spattering was visible in the west pit lava pond at the incandescent area near the center of the image at right on Friday, according to a report from HVO.
      Closer to the coast, pāhoehoe lava breakouts have been putting on a show.  

Scientist (left) adjusts a time-lapse camera, moved recently because the

rim of Pu‘u ‘Ō‘ō is softening and shifting. See the new film Kīlauea

Summit Eruption: Lava Returns to Halema‘uma‘u. USGS Photo

      Online, Hawaiian Volcano Observatory launched its new film Kīlauea  Summit Eruption: Lava Returns to Halema‘uma‘u. The documentary video explains  Kīlauea Volcano with behind-the-scenes imagery of publicly inaccessible areas.
     Through historical photos of past Halema‘uma‘u eruptions and 4K imagery of the current eruption, the 24-minute program tells the story of Kīlauea Volcano's summit.
     It begins with a Hawaiian chant that expresses traditional observations of a bubbling lava lake and reflects the connections between science and culture that continue on Kīlauea today.
     The video recounts the eruptive history of Halema‘uma‘u and describes formation and continued growth of the current summit vent and lava lake.
     It features USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists sharing insights on the summit eruption—how they monitor the lava lake, how and why the lake level rises and falls, why explosive events occur, the connection between Kīlauea's ongoing summit and East Rift Zone eruptions, and the impacts of the summit eruption on the Island of Hawai‘i and beyond.
    The video documentary is available at no cost at USGS General Interest Publication 182, and is also on the USGS Youtube channel.

Noah Gomes speaks about Haelma‘uma‘u and Pele in the new film

Kīlauea Summit Eruption: Lava Returns to Halema‘uma‘u.

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CIVIL DEFENSE ISSUED A HIGH SURF, HIGH WIND warning for Sunday regarding Ka‘ū and the north, south and east sides of the island. Hawai‘i Electric Light CO. reported work crews responding to spot power outages in isolated areas. As in all severe weather conditions, expect possible interruptions in power, cable and telephone services.
    Should power outages occur, be on the alert for malfunctioning traffic signals. Treat flashing traffic lights as a four-way stop.
    Oceanfront residents and beachgoers are advised to be on the alert for possible high and dangerous surf. Exercise caution due to the unpredictability of high surf.
     As a precaution, boat owners and oceanfront residents should take action to secure their property. Civil Defense promises to update conditions that may affect public safety. Brisk winds are expected to continue into mid-week.

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SEE EDUCATORS RUN, a program of the National Education Association, welcomed Nā‘ālehu kindergarten teacher Raina Whiting to Denver this weekend. Whiting is taking training for NEA members and their immediate family members who are considering running for public office. 

Nā‘ālehu School teacher Raina Whiting, with Hawai‘i State
Teachers Association Secretary Treasurer Amy Perruson,
and HSTA Vice President Justin Hughey in Denver.

     The training is designed for those interested in running for school board or another local office. NEA’s Campaigns and Elections staff along with consultants from around the country cover a variety of topics including how to prepare to become a candidate, fundraising, communicating with voters, field operation, writing a campaign plan and policy resources to use on the campaign trail.

     NEA will provide follow-up services to help prepare candidates to run for office and launch a campaign once the training is over.

     Whiting attended the training with Amy Perruso, Hawai‘i State Teachers Association Secretary Treasurer; and Justin Hughey, HSTA Vice President. 

     Whiting has announced she will run for state House of Representatives, for the east Ka‘ū -Kona seat which will be open, since Rep. Richard Creagan announced he is running for state Senate. The current east Ka‘ū -Kona state Sen. Josh Green is running for Lt. Governor.

NĀ‘ĀLEHU SCHOOL'S FRIENDRAISER organizers are looking for ply-board, 2X4's and paint for someone to donate to Nā‘ālehu Elementary Student Council. The building materials will be used to create games for the Friendraiser event to be held on Saturday, Nov. 18, on the school grounds. It runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Those interested in hosting educational displays, games, food, booths, fun and, "most importantly, opportunities to build and strengthen friendships," are welcome, says a statement from organizers. For more information, and to donate for raffle prizes or to give materials, contact Amber Keohuloa at ajavar@naalehu.orgor 345-9283.

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Tom Peek, of Volcano, is a storyteller and author,
who won the Silver Benjamin Franklin Award
for his book Daughers of Fire. He teaches
creative writing next Saturday at
Volcano Art Center. Photo by Julia Neal

WRITING ON THE WILD SIDE is a workshop offered by Tom Peek at Volcano Art Center this Saturday, Oct. 21, from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The storyteller and author's techniques and exercises help students explore their creative minds and unique voices.
   Peek's writings include the Hawai‘i Island based  Daughters of Fire, a novel of science, spirituality and romance through the eyes, hearts and minds of the cultural practitioner, the scientist, the developer and many of the characters that local residents know so well. Volcano, Kapāpala, Pāhala and Punalu‘u are in the book, which earned him a Silver Benjamin Franklin Award in New York. Peek is a Volcano resident.
    The class is $75 per person or $65 per person for VAC members. For more, call 967-8222.

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RIDE SO THEY CAN WALK is continuing to sign up place based participants who will ride alone or with friends in their chosen sites, and rack up miles to raise money to fight polio.

     Charlene Meyers, Volcano resident and statewide chair for Polio Plus, said participants can ride on stationary bikes at their homes or in a gym, ride alone or with friends on streets, roads and trails and do it at the times of their choosing. 

Ride So They Can Walk enthusiast plans to ride until he drops to
raise money to fight the crippling disease polio. Photo from Rotary

     "No roads will be closed as everyone will ride on their own schedule and desired distance," said Meyers said. Each rider pays $20 to register plus gathers sponsorship dollars from the community. 

    All donations go to Rotary's Polio Plus program. Rotary's efforts, since 1988 have taken down the number of polio cases from 350,000 to about ten. However, vaccinations are required to keep the disease from reigniting and spreading, Meyers said.

     The span of time for the individual Ride So they Can Walk events is Saturday, Nov. 11, through Saturday, Nov. 18.

     Each Ride So they Can Walk participant, who brings in at least $100, receives a commemorative towel. To sign-up, make the $20 registration check to Charlene Meyers, with Polio Plus Chair on the notation line. For contribution checks of $100 or more, make out to Rotary D5000-Polio Ride. Send to Charlene Meyers, Polio Plus Chair, P.O. 59, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, HI 96718.

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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 

UPCOMING FALL TROJAN SPORTS:

Cheerleading

Wednesday, Oct. 18, at Kamehameha.

Eight-Man Football

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

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REGISTER KEIKI GRADES K-8  FOR AN EDIBLE HALLOWEEN CRAFT CLASS scheduled for Wednesday, Oct. 25, from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Pāhala Community Center. Register until Tuesday, Oct. 24. For more, call 928-3102.

REGISTER KEIKI GRADES K-8 FOR PAPER PLATE SILHOUETTE CRAFT, until tomorrow, 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.

HEAR STORIES AND SCIENCE ABOUT  KA‘Ū DESERT’S FOOTPRINTS from Park Ranger Jay Robinson at Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park’s After Dark in the Park on Tuesday, Oct. 17, at 7 p.m. in the Kīlauea Visitor Center auditorium.

     Hawaiians traversed Kīlauea on foot between Puna and Ka‘ū. During the 18th century, explosions from the volcano rained volcanic ash down on the people, preserving their footprints in the sands of “Keonehelelei.” Robinson will discuss new interpretive displays in the Ka‘ū Desert and explain what is known today about the impact of these explosive eruptions on native society. The event is free, park entrance fees apply.

Footprints fossilized in volcanic ash in Ka‘ū Desert.
See After Dark in the Park event above. Photo from NPS

A FREE CONCERT WITH NĀ HŌKŪ HANOHANO WINNER MARK YAMANAKA is at Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park on Wednesday, Oct. 18, from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Yamanaka has been awarded multiple Nā Hōkū Hanohano awards since his first album, Lei Puakenikeni. His Lei Maile also received critical acclaim. The evening is part of Hawai‘i Volcanoes’ ongoing Nā Leo Manu “Heavenly Voices” presentations. Park entrance fees may apply.

OCEAN VIEW COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION BOARD meets Wednesday, Oct. 18, at noon, Ocean View Community Center. For more, call 939-7033.

SUGGESTIONS FOR HAWAI‘I COUNTY TRANSPORTATION SERVICES, including the Hele On Bus that takes many Ka‘ū residents to work, school and shopping, are invited at meetings outside 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 at heleonsuggestions@ssfm.com. Meetings are 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 19, at Waimea Elementary School and Tuesday, Oct. 24, at Aunty Sally Kaleohano’s Lu‘au Hale in Hilo.
     For more, call 808-356-1260.

HAWAIIAN CIVIC CLUB OF KA‘Ū MEETS THURSDAY, Oct. 19, at 5:30 p.m. For more, call 929-9731 or 936-7262.

AUDITIONS FOR A GILBERT & SULLIVAN CHRISTMAS CAROL, produced by Kīlauea Drama & Entertainment Network, are Thursday, Oct. 19 at 6:30 p.m. and Saturday, Oct. 21 at 10 a.m. at KMC's Kīlauea Theater. Auditioners prepare a song that best features vocal ability. There are parts for all ages, from Scrooge to Tiny Tim. A Gilbert & Sullivan Christmas Carol will play  Dec. 14 to 17; Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2:30 p.m.. For more, read the Ka'ū News Briefs from September 13, call 982-7344 or email kden73@aol.com.

TROPICAL FRUIT YIELDS will headline  a co-meeting of Hawai‘i Tropical Fruit Growers and Hawai‘i Farmers Union United, Thursday, Oct. 19, at 81-6393 Mamalahoa Hwy in Captain Cook. Peter Salleras, of Queensland, Australia, discusses Tatura trellis in Hawai‘i and Bush Tucker native fruits of Australia. Hawai‘i Farmers United state President Vince Mina reports on the state convention and legislative outlook. The potluck and meeting starts at 5 p.m. For more, contact Brian Lievens, President West Hawai‘i Chapter, 808-895-8753, greenwizard@hawaii.rr.com; or Ken Love, Executive Director, 808-323-2417, kenlove@hawaiiantel.net. Learn more about Hawai‘i Tropical Fruit Growers at: facebook.com/group.phpgid=127197321932&ref=mf,
 hawaiitropicalfruitgrowers.org and hawaiifruit.net.

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

TAI CHI FOR HEALTH will be presented this Friday, Oct. 20, at Ka‘ū District Gym, with Dr. Myrtle Miyamera, from 10 a.m. to noon, sponsored by Ka‘ū Resource Center and Pāhala Parks & Recreation.

EXPERIENCE THE SKILLFUL WORK, ‘IKE HANA NO‘EAU, Hawaiian cultural demonstrations are at Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park on the third Friday of each month from 10 a.m. to noon. Next one is Friday, Oct. 20, followed by Nov. 17 and Dec. 15. This event is free.

IN CELEBRATION OF THE 200TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE BIRTH OF BAHÁ'U'LLÁH, founder of the Bahá'í Faith, the Bahá’ís of Ka‘ū invite the community to a dinner and open house on Saturday, Oct. 21, from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Pāhala Community Center. For more information and to R.S.V.P. contact Sandra Demoruelle, email naalehutheatre@yahoo.com or phone 929-9244. For more about the Bahá'í Faith, read the Ka'ū News Briefs from September 20.

A HULA KAHIKO PERFORMANCE will be given on the hula platform near Volcano Art Center Gallery in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park Saturday, Oct. 21, starting at 10:30 a.m. Nā Kumu hula Micah Kamohoaliʻi and Hālau Na Kipuʻupuʻu will perform. Also see Nā Mea Hula with Halauolaokalani from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Photo from matson.com.

THE OCEAN VIEW DEEP CLEAN project is gearing up for Saturday, Oct. 21. Supported through a grant from Matson Navigation, it will provide containers for large items being disposed of, including broken appliances and furniture. The event begins at 8 a.m. at Ocean View Community Center. Those who would like to volunteer can call 939-7033, Mondays through Fridays from 8 am. to noon and
217-7982 in afternoons and evenings, said Ocean View Community Association President Ron Gall.        Volunteers need to wear sturdy shoes and gloves, sunscreen, long pants/jeans and hat. OVVC will provide bottled water and lunch for volunteers. "The Community Association is seeking a tire recycler to haul off the many tires dumped in the community," Gall said.
     In addition to Matson, the Hawai‘i County Solid Waste Division is providing assistance.

RECYCLING WILL BE ACCEPTED AT NĀ‘ĀLEHU ELEMENTARY SCHOOL GYM on Saturday, Oct. 21, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. by Atlas Recycling. Redeem HI-5 sorted by type; receive 5 cents per container and additional 20 cents per pound on all aluminum. Atlas Recycling donates 20 cents per pound on all aluminum redeemed to the school. For more, call 939-2413, ext. 230.

Ranger Wendy leads the Nature and Culture hike. Photo by Janice Wei/NPS

NATURE & CULTURE: AN UNSEVERABLE RELATIONSHIP, a moderate hike approximately 2 miles, takes place tomorrow, Saturday, Oct. 21, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Kahuku Unit of Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Palm Trail hikers visit a place where catastrophic change (hulihia) and subsequent restoration (kulia) can be observed as the land transitions from the 1868 lava flow with its pioneer plants to deeper soil with more diverse and older flora. Learn about native plants that play a vital role in Hawaiian culture. Free. The hike will be offered again on Nov. 25. Visit nps.gov/havo for more.

CU HAWAI‘I FEDERAL CREDIT UNION IS OFFERING EMPLOYMENT as a Member Service Representative in Nā‘ālehu. 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 cuhawaii.com/careers.html.

Ka‘ū News Briefs Saturday, October 14, 2017

Nīnole Bridge will be replaced on Hwy 11 on the Nā‘ālehu side of Punalu‘u. It will be dismantled.
Photo from state Department of Transportation

REPLACEMENT OF NĪNOLE AND HĪLEA VINTAGE TIMBER BRIDGES on Hwy. 11 near Punalu‘u is expected sometime in 2018. The two wooden bridges, built in 1940, will be demolished and two longer, wider single span bridges will replace them, keeping the existing highway alignment. The funding comes from the Federal Highway Administration and state Department of Transportation.

Nīnole Bridge replacement will be at the existing old timber bridge
site. A temporary bridge on the side will handle traffic
during construction. Photo from state Department of Transportation

      During the bridge building period, temporary two-way bypass bridges will be constructed alongside the old bridges to keep Hwy. 11 traffic going. Once the old bridges are replaced, temporary bridges will be removed, according to the Final Environmental Assessment written for the project.
     Nīnole Bridge is a three-span, wooden timber bridge 60 feet long and 24 feet wide. It straddles Nīnole Stream which runs through Sea Mountain Golf Course. A golf cart path goes under the bridge and the bridge is near residential homes mauka of Punalu‘u and the intersection to both the residential neighborhood and Sea Mountain Resort.
     Hīlea Bridge is a two-span, wooden-timber bridge, 41 feet long and 24 feet wide. It is located 1.2 miles southwest of the Alahaki Road and Nīnole Loop road closer to Kāwā and is surrounded by ranch and conservation lands.

Hīlea Bridge replacement will be at the existing old timber
bridge site. A temporary bridge on the side will handle
traffic during construction.
Photo from state Department of Transportation

     The new Hīlea Bridge will be 100 feet long and Nīnole Bridge will be 65 feet long. They will both accommodate two 11-foot travel lanes, with nine-foot shoulders on each side and one-foot, two-inch wide metal guardrails on the approaches.
     The EA says both new bridges will improve mobility for highway users and address existing structural deficiencies by strengthening the bridges' foundations and designing their approaches, decks and railings to meet current standards.
     According to the EA, the existing bridges fail to meet structural and design standards on state and federal levels. Their carrying capacity is 27 to 28 tons, while the minimum standard is 36 tons. They are also deficient in meeting seismic requirements, says the EA. The railings do not meet standards for "barrier crashworthiness," to withstand a car or light truck traveling 62 mph, the EA reports.
    The EA also says there will be a minimum and temporary affect on wildlife.
    Read the Environmental Assessment at
flh.fhwa.dot.gov/projects/hi/hilea/files/hilea-ninole-ea.pdf.

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FILIPINO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND GOV. DAVID IGE left today for Manila and other provinces. The goodwill and trade mission from Oct. 14 through the 22 includes about 50 Hawai‘i business and community leaders who will tour Manila, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur and Cebu.
     Philippines Counsul General to Honolulu Gina Jamoralin said, “The Governor’s visit to the Philippines, and his signing into law of HB 604, Sakada Day Bill in 2015, which commemorates the arrival of the first Filipino sakadas in Hawai‘i on 20 December 1906, is indicative of Hawai‘i’s recognition of the Filipinos’ significant contribution to the development of Hawai‘i, and the special kind of friendship that the Philippines and Hawai‘i share.”

      While in the Philippines, Ige will lead a variety of meetings with local government, business and community members, as well as participate in cultural events, tours, activities and ceremonies. Among the events is the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding and Cooperation between the State of Hawai‘i and the League of Provinces, establishing Sister State relationships with several provinces in the Philippines. The governor will also take part in a wreath laying ceremony at Rizal Park and visit the University of the Philippines.

Gov. David Ige, First Lady of Hawai‘i Dawn Amano Ige, Philippine Consul general to Honolulu Gina A. Jamoralin
and President of the Filipino Chamber of Commerce Brandon Dele Cruz left today for a trade mission to the Philippines.
Photos from the Philippines Consulate General in Honolulu

     First Lady Dawn Amano Ige will join the governor for various events and ceremonies. She will also visit Pitogo Elementary School and a Consuelo Foundation orphanage.

      One staff member will be traveling with the governor and first lady. The total cost of the trip is estimated at $8,900, reports the governor's office.

     Lt. Gov. Shan Tsutsui will serve as acting governor until Ige returns to Hawai‘i on Oct. 22.

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KA‘Ū HIGH SCHOOL TROJANS varsity girls volleyball hosted Honoka‘a Friday night at the Ka‘ū District Gym. Trojans scored more total points than Honoka‘a, under coach Josh Ortega, but Honoka‘a won three of the four sets to take the match. Scores for the Trojans versus the Dragons were 21-25, 22-25, 25-13 and 23-25. There was no jayvee match.

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:

Cheerleading

Wednesday, Oct. 18, at Kamehameha.

Eight-Man Football

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

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

EXPLORE HUMAN HISTORY on a three-hour guided moderate two-mile hike called People and Land of Kahuku. It 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. The hike is also offered on Nov. 19 and Dec. 17.

LEARN ABOUT KA‘Ū DESERT’S FOOTPRINTS IN THE ASH with Park Ranger Jay Robinson during Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park’s After Dark in the Park on Tuesday, Oct. 17, at 7 p.m. in the Kīlauea Visitor Center auditorium.
     Hawaiians traversed Kīlauea on foot between Puna and Ka‘ū. During the 18th century, explosions from the volcano rained volcanic ash down on the people, preserving their footprints in the sands of “Keonehelelei.” Robinson will discuss new interpretive displays in the Ka‘ū Desert and explain what is known today about the impact of these explosive eruptions on native society. The event is free, park entrance fees apply.

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.

A FREE CONCERT FEATURING NĀ HŌKŪ HANOHANO WINNER MARK YAMANAKA will be at Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park on Wednesday, Oct. 18, from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Yamanaka has been awarded multiple Nā Hōkū Hanohano awards since his first album, Lei Puakenikeni. His Lei Maile also received critical acclaim. This event is part of Hawai‘i Volcanoes’ ongoing Nā Leo Manu “Heavenly Voices” presentations. Park entrance fees may apply.

OCEAN VIEW COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION BOARD meets Wednesday, Oct. 18, starting at noon, in the Ocean View Community Center. For more, call 939-7033.

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 meetings outside 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 at heleonsuggestions@ssfm.com.
     Meetings are 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 19, at Waimea Elementary School and Tuesday, Oct. 24, at Aunty Sally Kaleohano’s Lu‘au Hale in Hilo.
     Fr more, call 808-356-1260.

HAWAIIAN CIVIC CLUB OF KA‘Ū MEETS THURSDAY, Oct. 19, at 5:30 p.m. For more, call 929-9731 or 936-7262.

AUDITIONS FOR A GILBERT & SULLIVAN CHRISTMAS CAROL, the December play by Kīlauea Drama & Entertainment Network, are Thursday, Oct. 19, at 6:30 p.m. and Saturday, Oct. 21, at 10 a.m. at KMC's Kīlauea Theater. Auditioners prepare a song that best features vocal ability. There are parts for all ages, from Scrooge to Tiny Tim. A Gilbert & Sullivan Christmas Carol will play for one weekend only Dec. 14 to 17; Thursday, Friday, & Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2:30 p.m.. For more information, read the Ka'ū News Briefs from September 13, call 982-7344 or email kden73@aol.com.

TROPICAL FRUIT YIELDS will be discussed at a co-meeting of Hawai‘i Tropical Fruit Growers and Hawai‘i Farmers Union United, Thursday, Oct. 19, at 81-6393 Mamalahoa Hwy in Captain Cook. Guest speaker Peter Salleras, of Queensland, Australia, will discuss Tatura trellis in Hawai‘i and Bush Tucker native fruits of Australia. Hawai‘i Farmers United state President Vince Mina reports on the recent state convention and legislative outlook. The potluck dinner meeting starts at 5 p.m. For more, contact Brian Lievens, President West Hawai‘i Chapter, 808-895-8753, greenwizard@hawaii.rr.com; or Ken Love, Executive Director, 808-323-2417, kenlove@hawaiiantel.net. Learn more about Hawai‘i Tropical Fruit Growers at: facebook.com/group.phpgid=127197321932&ref=mf, hawaiitropicalfruitgrowers.org and hawaiifruit.net.

TAI CHI FOR HEALTH will be presented this Friday, Oct. 20, at the Ka‘ū District Gym, with Dr. Myrtle Miyamera, from 10 a.m. to noon, sponsored by Ka‘ū Resource Center and Pāhala Parks & Recreation.

EXPERIENCE THE SKILLFUL WORK, ‘IKE HANA NO‘EAU, Hawaiian cultural demonstrations will be given the Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park on the third Friday of each month from 10 a.m. to noon. The upcoming event will be Friday, Oct. 20, with programs also scheduled for Nov. 17 and Dec. 15. This event is free.

CU HAWAI‘I FEDERAL CREDIT UNION IS OFFERING EMPLOYMENT as a Member Service Representative in Nā‘ālehu. 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 cuhawaii.com/careers.html.

Ka‘ū News Briefs Friday, October 13, 2017

This Catholic church built by the Sacred Hearth fathers, which included Saint Damien, was destroyed by the
 1868 earthquake in Ka‘ū. The ruins remain on Kama‘oa Road. See story below.
Photo from Images of America, Ka‘ū District by Dennis and Marge Elwell

DECERTIFYING THE NUCLEAR AGREEMENT WITH IRAN and U.S. allies is a "dangerous, political decision," said Sen. Mazie Hirono, after Pres. Donald Trump made the threat. He directed Congress today to come up with a plan to force Iran to go beyond the agreement that delays its nuclear weapon development. Hirono said, "Our European Allies, the United Nations, and the President's own civilian and military national security team all agree that Iran is not in material breach of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action." The Plan of Action is an agreement between Iran, U.S. and other nations. It promise to delay nuclear development is judged through inspections, which Trump cabinet members have determined that Iran has passed.
     Said Hirono, "In making the dangerous, political decision to decertify Iran's compliance with the agreement, Donald Trump is jeopardizing our national security by undermining the harsh restrictions on Iran's nuclear program established by JCPOA. At a time when the President's irresponsible actions and rhetoric have already exacerbated the crisis in North Korea, we don't need a second nuclear crisis in the Middle East.​"

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WITHDRAWING MEMBERSHIP FROM UNESCO, which lists Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park as a World Heritage Site, is one of the latest of President Donald Trump's pullbacks from cooperation with other nations. According to a statement from the U.S. Department of State, the U.S. will remain a UNESCO non-member observer and signatory to the stand-alone treaty establishing the World Heritage Convention. There are 195 members of UNESCO, with 193 signging onto the Heritage Treaty.

UNESCO, headquartered in Paris, and listing Hawai‘i
Volcanoes National Park as a Wold Heritage Site,
promotes understanding of diverse cultures.
Photo from UNESCO

   UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization has a mission of peace and civil rights. It honors historic and natural sites and lists 1,073 World Heritage Sites, including 23 in the United States. World Heritage Sites range from the Statue of Liberty to Stonehenge in England, to Grand Canyon National Park, Serengeti National Park in Africa, the Pyramids in Egypt and Monticello in Virginia. Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park is one of 206 "natural sites" on the list.
    Today, UNESCO nominated the former cultural minister for France as its new chief. According to Reuters, Aidreu Azoulay told reporters, "In this time of crisis we need more than ever to support, strengthen and reform UNESCO and not leave it. If I'm confirmed... the first thing I will do is to restore its credibility, restore the faith of its members and its efficiency so it can act." French President Emmanuel Macron tweeted, "Congratulations. France will continue to fight for science, education and culture in the world." UNESCO is headquartered in Paris.
      The United States withdrew funding from UNESCO in 2011 when it accepted Palestine as a member. The Trump administration said that withdrawal from membership is due, in part, to an anti-Israel bias.
      According to the National Park Service, the decision will not threaten Hawai‘i Volcanoes or any other U.S. place from being listed as a World Heritage Site.
      See more at en.unesco.org. and whc.unesco.org/en/list/.

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KA‘Ū BAHÁ‘Í COMMUNITY joined Bahá‘í from around the island this morning to receive a proclamation from Mayor Harry Kim celebrating the Bicentennial of the faith. The proclamation acknowledged the Bahá‘í contribution to peace in the world and to tolerance and celebration of the diverse cultures on the planet.
     Alan Moores represented the Ka‘ū contingent. Among Bahá‘í attending were a Native American, Marshallese, Iranian and Chinese, ranging from age five to 96. Many have lived internationally from Papua New Guinea to Korea, Colombia and Belize and make Hawai‘i Island their home.
      The Bahá‘í's of Ka‘ū host a celebration on Saturday, Oct. 21, at Pāhala Community Center, with a film about their history and community work. The event is from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.

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BE PREPARED FOR NATURE'S FURY is the message in this week's Volcano Watch, written by USGS scientists at Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, in advance of Thursday, Oct. 19. That is the date of the statewide earthquake drill which occurs at 10 a.m. It's called the Great Hawai‘i ShakeOut and teaches everyone to "Drop! Cover! and Hold On!"
     As the summer months began to wind down this year, Nature's fury began to wind up and grab much of the news cycle. On Sept, 8, as Irma, the second of four hurricanes to sweep across the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico regions thus far in 2017, was approaching Cuba, a magnitude-8.1 (M8.1) earthquake struck the western coast of Mexico. This was the largest earthquake to strike Mexico in 100 years. It caused widespread damage, injured hundreds, and took dozens of lives.

Damage to an unreinforced rock wall at Kalāhikiola Church in Kapa‘au,
North Kohala, following the magnitude-6.6 Kīholo and
 magnitude-6.0 Māhukona earthquakes in October 2006.
 USGS photo by J. Takahashi

     Less than two weeks later, on Sept. 19, a M7.1 earthquake struck roughly 80 km (50 mi) southeast of Mexico City. While not as strong as the Sept. 8 earthquake, this second event resulted in far greater damage, killing hundreds and injuring thousands of people, principally because of its proximity to Mexico's capital and metropolitan area, where roughly 20 million people live.
     Coincidentally, this M7.1 earthquake struck 32 years to the day since a M8.0 earthquake struck along Mexico's western coast in 1985. Though centered hundreds of miles from Mexico City, the 1985 earthquake is often referred to as the "Mexico City earthquake" because of its devastating effects on that city.

    Thousands perished in the 1985 Mexico City earthquake. Seismic waves were amplified by the lake bed and river sediments beneath the city. Strong ground shaking caused many buildings to collapse, trapping their occupants beneath and within. These same effects came into play during the Sept. 19, 2017, earthquake, as well.
     An important consequence of the 1985 Mexico City earthquake was the development and implementation of upgraded building codes in Mexico. These upgraded codes made it less likely that newly constructed buildings would collapse during an earthquake, and they possibly prevented even greater destruction and casualties resulting from last month's earthquake.
    Unlike hurricanes, which can be observed and tracked as they develop over days, earthquakes occur relatively instantaneously. Yet, if we know that an earthquake has occurred, and it is possibly large enough, we can estimate how soon damaging seismic waves will begin to shake different areas based on how far they are from the earthquake's epicenter.

          After the 1985 earthquake, Mexico was one of the first countries to use this principle to provide early warning of imminent strong earthquake shaking. Some reports have credited Mexico's system with helping to reduce casualties associated with the September 2017 earthquakes. The United States Geological Survey is coordinating a U.S. West coast earthquake early warning effort with university and other partners in California, Oregon, and Washington State.   
     While being warned that a damaging earthquake has struck can help minimize losses, it is critically important to be prepared and know what to do to reduce damage and injury when earthquakes, like the 2006 Kīholo and Māhukona events, occur in Hawai‘i. Across the U.S., annual Great ShakeOut earthquake awareness drills (shakeout.org/Hawaii) emphasize "Drop! Cover! and Hold On!" until strong shaking stops to avoid being struck by falling objects, and before evacuating a damaged structure.
      Practicing what to do during a large earthquake will help people take appropriate actions when the next one actually strikes. Because Sept. 19 marks the anniversary of the 1985 earthquake, Mexico City had conducted an earthquake drill earlier that day, just a matter of hours before the M7.1 earthquake struck. Along with preparation and planning, the importance of developing, implementing and enforcing appropriate building codes cannot be overstated.

 shakeout.org.hawaii

      As Hawai‘i residents Drop! Cover! and Hold On! during this year's Great Hawaiʻi ShakeOut at 10:19 a.m. HST on Thursday, October 19, urge USGS scientists, "Let's also dedicate a quiet moment to those adversely impacted by recent earthquakes. And, let's think about ways we can improve our personal and community preparedness and resiliency to extreme natural events."
      See HVO website at volcanoes.usgs.gov/hvo for past Volcano Watch articles, volcano updates and photos, recent earthquake info, and more. Call for summary updates at 808-967-8862 (Kīlauea) or 808-967-8866 (Mauna Loa). Email questions to askHVO@usgs.gov.

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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 

UPCOMING FALL TROJAN SPORTS:

Cheerleading

Wednesday, Oct. 18, at Kamehameha.

Eight-Man Football

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

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THE HISTORY OF DISCOVERY HARBOUR VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT will be presented at a dinner tomorrow,  Saturday, Oct. 14, at Discovery Harbour Community Center at 5 p.m. Veteran and current volunteer firefighters will be honored.
     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. Read the Ka‘ū News Briefs from Tuesday, Oct. 10, for more details.

FAR FROM THE TREE, wood and acrylic art show for 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. A reception with both artists will be tomorrow, 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 also features hand painted wooden bowls that combine both artists’ talents.
     For more, 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.

MONGOLIAN BARBECUE AND COMEDY NIGHT are o tap at Kīlauea Military Camp, tomorrow, Saturday, Oct. 14. From 5 p.m. to 8 p.m, Camp's Crater Rim Café offers  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.

PLAY MUSIC, DANCE AND SING AT KANIKAPILA. Acoustic instrumentalists, drummers, singers and dancers invited on Saturdays, Oct. 14 and 28, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. to Nā‘ālehu Methodist Church Hall. For more, call Desmond at 937-6305.

EXPLORE HUMAN HISTORY on a three-hour guided moderate two-mile hike called People and Land of Kahuku. It 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. The hike is also offered on Nov. 19 and Dec. 17.

LEARN ABOUT KA‘Ū DESERT’S FOOTPRINTS IN THE ASH with Park Ranger Jay Robinson during Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park’s After Dark in the Park on Tuesday, Oct. 17, at 7 p.m. in the Kīlauea Visitor Center auditorium.
     Hawaiians traversed Kīlauea on foot between Puna and Ka‘ū. During the 18th century, explosions from the volcano rained volcanic ash down on the people, preserving their footprints in the sands of “Keonehelelei.” Robinson will discuss new interpretive displays in the Ka‘ū Desert and explain what is known today about the impact of these explosive eruptions on native society. The event is free, park entrance fees apply.

Jon Dawson illustrated the history of the Ka‘ū Footprints Trail,
the subject of After Dark in the Park on Tuesday.

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.

A FREE CONCERT FEATURING NA HOKU HANOHANO WINNER MARK YAMANAKA will be at Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park on Wednesday, Oct. 18, from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Yamanaka has been awarded multiple Nā Hōkū Hanohano awards since his first album, Lei Puakenikeni. His Lei Maile also received critical acclaim. This event is part of Hawai‘i Volcanoes’ ongoing Nā Leo Manu “Heavenly Voices” presentations. Park entrance fees may apply.

OCEAN VIEW COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION BOARD meets Wednesday, Oct. 18, starting at noon, in the Ocean View Community Center. For more, call 939-7033.


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 meetings outside 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 at heleonsuggestions@ssfm.com.
     Meetings are 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 19, at Waimea Elementary School and Tuesday, Oct. 24, at Aunty Sally Kaleohano’s Lu‘au Hale in Hilo.
      Call 808-356-1260.

HAWAIIAN CIVIC CLUB OF KA‘Ū MEETS THURSDAY, Oct. 19, at 5:30 p.m. For more, call 929-9731 or 936-7262.

AUDITIONS FOR A GILBERT & SULLIVAN CHRISTMAS CAROL, the December play by Kīlauea Drama & Entertainment Network, are Thursday, Oct. 19, at 6:30 p.m. and Saturday, Oct. 21, at 10 a.m. at KMC's Kīlauea Theater. Auditioners prepare a song that best features vocal ability. There are parts for all ages, from Scrooge to Tiny Tim.

     A Gilbert & Sullivan Christmas Carol will play for one weekend only Dec. 14 to 17; Thursday, Friday, & Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2:30 p.m.. For more information, read the Ka'ū News Briefs from September 13, call 982-7344 or email kden73@aol.com.

HAWAI‘I TROPICAL FRUIT GROWERS hosts a meeting with Hawai‘i Farmers Union United to discuss tropical fruit yields on Thursday, Oct. 19, at 81-6393 Mamalahoa Hwy in Captain Cook. Guest speaker Peter Salleras, of Queensland, Australia, will discuss Tatura trellis in Hawai‘i and Bush Tucker native fruits of Australia. Hawai‘i Farmers United state President Vince Mina reports on the recent state convention and legislative outlook. The potluck dinner meeting starts at 5 p.m. For more, contact Brian Lievens, President West Hawai‘i Chapter, 808-895-8753, greenwizard@hawaii.rr.com; or Ken Love, Executive Director, 808-323-2417, kenlove@hawaiiantel.net. Learn more about Hawai‘i Tropical Fruit Growers at: facebook.com/group.php?gid=127197321932&ref=mf,
hawaiitropicalfruitgrowers.org and hawaiifruit.net.

CU HAWAI‘I FEDERAL CREDIT UNION IS OFFERING EMPLOYMENT as a Member Service Representative in Nā‘ālehu. 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 cuhawaii.com/careers.html.