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Friday, March 23, 2018

Ka‘ū News Briefs Friday, March 23, 2018

Miss Ka‘ū Coffee pageant takes place on Saturday, April 21, at Ka‘ū District Gym. See story below. Photo from Trinidad Marques
A BILL TO REQUIRE EMPLOYERS TO PROVIDE FOR FAMILY LEAVE for all employees is progressing in the state legislature. Next stop is the House Committee on Finance.
Gov. David Ige, who supports a bill that
would greatly increase access to family
medical leave for Hawaiʻi residents.
     Senate Bill 2990, supported by Gov. David Ige, and several unions and nonprofits, would require small businesses - those with fewer than 50 employees - to extend access to leave benefits for employees, to provide care during the birth or adoption of a child, and for a spouse or parent with a serious health condition. An amendment was added by the House Committee on Labor and Public Employment, providing for a fund to help offset costs for entities with ten employees or fewer.
     The Federal Family and Medical Leave Act currently provides for 12 weeks of unpaid leave under these circumstances, for companies with 50 or more employees, with Hawai‘i adding a four-week extension for those who work at companies with 100 or more employees.
     Testimonies came from supporters - like Jessica McDonald, who lost her child after a sudden illness two days after she returned to work: "While I will never know whether I could have saved Quinn, what I do know is that I spent Quinn's last day at work. I didn't get to hold her one last time, kiss her little cheeks, rock her to sleep, and this will forever haunt me."
     Paid family leave supporters contend that the benefit serves businesses in the long-run. The Hawai‘i State Teachers Association states, “Sickness should not become a debt sentence.”
     The bill drew opposition from the Hawai‘i Chapter of the Society for Human Resource Management and the Chamber of Commerce Hawai‘i. Sherry Menor-McNamara, president of the Chamber of Commerce Hawai‘i, asked, "what are the unintended consequences and the overall impact on the business community, which in turn can impact the type of benefits that employers provide?"
     Tina Yamaki, president of the Retail Merchants of Hawai‘i, said, "What this bill does, it adds added burden and cost onto a lot of the retailers and businesses. There's only so much a retailer or business can absorb, and then the rest gets passed on to the customer."
     Deborah Zysman, executive director of the Hawai‘i Children's Action Network said, "The way it's being proposed, businesses would not pay for it. We all, workers, would pay into a fund managed by the state, and we would all be able to take out; so it's an insurance program which also makes it really cheap."

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

HAWAI‘I RANKS 12TH IN THE NATION IN GRADUATING SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING students who are at least 25 years of age. However, Hawai‘i ranks 43rd, behind other states and Washington, D.C., in overall rankings for innovation, according to a recent WalletHub report. The U.S. is projected to spend $553 billion on research and development in 2018, states WalletHub. Comparing the 50 states and the District of Columbia across "22 key metrics," the data set ranges from share of STEM professionals to R&D spending per capita.
     Hawai‘i ranks 31st for Share of Technology Companies, 42nd for R&D Spending per Capita, 43rd for Venture-Capital Funding per Capita and for Projected STEM-Job Demand by 2020, 45th for Share of STEM Professionals, and 47th for Eighth-Grade Math & Science Performance. See the full WalletHub report.

THE IDENTITY OF THE OPIHI PICKER who died on Wednesday off Kahakahakea Point, 2 miles south of Pohu`e Bay, has been released by the Hawai‘i Police Department. The 54-year-old man from Wai‘ohinu is identified as Duane A. Breithaup. His is also known as Sonny. According to the statement from HPD, “He was with about ten family members near the ocean but was alone picking the opihi from the cliff area. Family members reported at about 12:44 p.m., a large wave swept him into the ocean, where he struggled before disappearing.” See more on the rescue attempt in Thursday's Ka`u News Briefs.

HAWAI`I COUNTY CLOSED ALL OF ITS PARKS through the weekend as a heavy storms with rain, flooding, wind and lightening are expected across the island. A flash flood watch, which could change to a warning, is in effect from Saturday morning through late Saturday night. According to weather and Civil Defense statements, periods of heavy rainfall and thunderstorms may result in flash flooding. Rapidly rising water levels may result in area streams and significant flooding may occur for low lying and poor drainage areas. Weather is expected to include high winds, heavy rain with thunderstorms, and flooding. All parks are closed. "Consider canceling outdoor activities. Motorists are especially cautioned - road closures may occur without notice. Avoid going outdoors if possible during lightning. Expect possible interruptions to utilities. Secure areas and items that may be affected by high winds," says a statement from the County of Hawai`i.
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2017 Miss Ka‘ū Coffee Court with Miss Ka‘ū Coffee 2017 Jami Beck, center, back row. She will pass
 the crown on Saturday, April 21 during the pageant at Ka‘ū District Gym. 
Photo by Pamela Taylor
MISS KAʻŪ COFFEE TITLE CONTENDERS are traveling to orchards, mills, and markets to learn about farming, processing, roasting, and sales. They visit small Kaʻū Coffee farmers, who have spent more than 20 years - since the sugar plantation shut down - to develop a new crop and penetrate major markets worldwide.
     The Miss Ka‘ū Coffee pageant takes place on Saturday, April 21, at Ka‘ū District Gym. Tickets and sponsorships are sold throughout the community. The 2018 pageant will mark the first time the pageant will be presented at Ka‘ū District Gym, next to Ka‘ū High School. The pageant is under the directorship of Trinidad Marques, herself a Ka‘ū Coffee producer and marketer. The winners will receive scholarships and trophies.
     Candidates for Miss Ka‘ū Coffee are: Reishalyn Kekoa Jara, 16, Karlee Fukunaga-Camba, 16, Helena Nihipali-Sesson, 16, and Sheri Lynn Freitas, 18. Miss Ka‘ū Coffee Junior Miss candidates are Jacie Umemoto, 12, and Cristina Kawewehi, 12. Miss Ka‘ū Peaberry candidates are Jadelyn Kekoa Jara, 10, and Tenielle Blanco, 8. Ka‘ū Coffee Flower Candidates are Kysha Manini-Kaupu, 3, Telia Espejo-Navarro, 5, and Lilianna Marques, 5.

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Youth organizers and their mentors, including Ka‘ū High and Pāhala Elementary School Principal Sharon Beck,
manned educational displays like the one for Big Island Substance Abuse Council at the 2017 Ka‘ū Unity Celebration.
Photo by Julia Neal
SECOND ANNUAL KA‘Ū UNITY CELEBRATION will be held on Saturday, April 28, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Ka‘ū District Gym. Join members of the community in honoring the history of Hawai‘i, enjoying a variety of delicious food and drink, and supporting local youth talent in art, music, dance, drama, and poetry. Admission is free.
     Ka‘ū Unity Celebration will be hosted by The Collective, in association with community organization ‘O Ka‘ū Kakou. The Collective is an organization of local community leaders and adult mentors who work in collaboration with the youth of Ka‘ū to develop leadership skills, confidence, and the ability to solve long standing social problems; empower the younger generations; and restore unity throughout the Ka‘ū community.
Ka‘ū High musicians were in the lineup for 
the 2017 Unity Celebration. Photo by Julia Neal
     On April 29, 2017, The Collective held the first ever Ka‘ū Unity Celebration, hosting participants from Ka‘ū High School & Pāhala Elementary, Nā‘ālehu Elementary, Ka‘ū Learning Academy, and Volcano School of Arts and Science. The event drew in an impressive 500 people.
   This year's Celebration will include a cultural showcase; a performance centered around the history of immigration to Hawai‘i. The youth will wear pieces of clothing from their culture to demonstrate pride and ownership over their identities, as well as represent the timeline of different groups coming to the islands.
   "The members of The Collective look forward to seeing you at the upcoming Ka‘ū Unity Celebration! Your presence at the event and support for young talent will help contribute to the goals of this organization: unity and empowerment," said Monique Hughes, Youth representative of The Collective.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

KA‘Ū COMMUNITY EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM BASIC TRAINING - a free, four day, in-depth course - will take place at Ocean View Community Center (92-8924 Leilani Circle) on Saturdays in April. Hawai‘i County Civil Defense Agency scheduled the training from 8:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., on Apr. 7, 14, 21, and 28.
     This course is open to the public; C.E.R.T. Basic Training Course provides participants with classroom and hands-on instruction in safety, fire suppression, first aid, light search and rescue, emergency communications, and more. Those interested in basic emergency awareness, developing personal response knowledge and skill sets, and can commit to four consecutive Saturdays, can register online at certkau.eventbrite.com or call Bill Hanson at 937-2181.
     Seating is limited. "This course could help save your life," says Hanson.

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KA`U ACHIEVED ITS FIRST SPRING VICTORY FOR GIRLS SOFTBALL, against Hilo, on Thursday, March 22. With 22 runs, the game saw the girls Ka‘ū strong and dominating with twice the runs of Hilo. It was played at Victor Stadium after being rescheduled form March 13.
     The second half of the season starts with a Saturday game at Kealakehe. See the remaining scheduled games for girls softball and boys volleyball, below.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

See public Ka‘ū events, meetings, entertainment at kaucalendar.com
/janfebmar/februaryevents.html. See Ka‘ū exercise, meditation, daily, 
February print edition of The Ka‘ū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes 
throughout Ka‘ū, from Miloli‘i through Volcano. Also available free on 
stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com.

KA‘Ū TROJANS SPORTS SCHEDULE
Girls Softball: Saturday, Mar 24 @ Kealakehe
   Saturday, Mar 31 @ Honoka‘a
   Monday, Apr 2, @ Kohala
   Saturday, Apr 7, Hawai‘i Prep @ Ka‘ū
   Monday, Apr 9, @ Pāhoa
   Wednesday, Apr 11 @ KSH
   Saturday, Apr 14, Kea‘au @ Ka‘ū
Boys Volleyball: Tuesday, Apr 3, @ Waiakea
   Wednesday, Apr 11, Kea‘au @ Ka‘ū
   Friday, Apr 13, Honoka‘a @ Ka‘ū
   Monday, Apr 16, @ Hilo
   Friday, Apr 20, Parker @ Ka‘ū

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

LAST WEEKEND OF KDEN'S HOW THE OTHER HALF LOVES - shows through March 24. Performances: Friday, March 22, and Saturday, March 23, at 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, March 24, at 2:30 p.m, at Kīlauea Military Camp's Kīlauea Theater, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Kīlauea Drama & Entertainment Network performance. KMC open to authorized KMC patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. Call KDEN for ticket info, 982-7344

JAZZ IN THE FOREST, a monthly event held at the Volcano Art Center in the Village, has been moved to the last Saturday in March, the 24th. This month's performance offers exciting original compositions by pianist/composer Loren Wilken, and the beautiful Brazilian samba sounds of vocalist/trumpet stylist Andrea Linborg, along with Jean Pierre Thoma on winds, Brian McCree on bass, Russ on drums, and Luke on acoustic guitar. As usual, the concerts will be at 4:30 & 7 p.m., and refreshments will be available. Tickets are available online, and are $18 per VAC member/$20 non-member. Call 967-8222 or visit volcanoartcenter.org for more details.

FINAL DAY OF TĪ AND SEAS ART EXHIBIT, SUNDAY, MARCH 25, at Volcano Art Center Gallery, featuring oil paintings by Pāhoa resident Steve Irvine. Open to the public, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., daily - volcanoartcenter.org or 967-8222

AVOCADO GRAFTING FOR COMMERCIAL GROWERS WORKSHOP: Register by Monday, March 26, for Hilo, and Tuesday, March 27, for Kona. Workshops scheduled for: Wednesday, March 28, 1:30 to 4:30 p.m., at Komohana Research and Extension Center, 875 Komohana St, Room D-202, Hilo, HI 96720. Kona will hold two workshops, at 9 a.m. to noon or 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., on Thursday, March 29, at Kona Cooperative Extension Service, Conference Room, 79-7381 Mamalahoa Highway, Kealakekua, HI 96750. Class Fee is $25 per person, per workshop; registration required. RSVP online, or by contacting Gina at 322-4892, at least two days prior to the workshop.

SATURDAY, MARCH 24
EDIBLE WILD PLANTS: A Hands-On Foray for Foragers and Foodies, Saturday, March 24, 8 a.m. to noon. Meet at Volcano Art Center. Hands-on immersion and discovery. $30 per VAC member and $40 per non-member, plus a $15 transportation fee. Pre-registration required; class size limited. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

KEIKI STAINED GLASS, Saturday and Sunday, March 24 and 25, 9 a.m. to noon, Volcano Art Center. Beginners workshop for keiki ages 11 & up - must be accompanied by an adult. Register in advance; class limited to 6 children. $50 per VAC member and $55 per non-member, plus $10 supply fee. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

MONGOLIAN BBQ, Saturday, March 24, 5 - 8 p.m. Kīlauea Military Camp's Crater Rim Café, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. $0.85/ounce - choice of 13 veggies, 4 meats, sauces, chow mein, and beverage. Park entrance fees apply. KMC is open to all authorized KMC patrons and sponsored guests. 967-8356, kilaueamilitarycamp.com

WRITING FOR INNER EXPLORATION AND LIFE REFLECTION, Saturday, March 24, 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Volcano Art Center. No previous writing experience necessary. $65 per VAC member and $75 per non-member. Bring lunch and pictures of parent/parents. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

SUNDAY, MARCH 25
KEIKI STAINED GLASS, Sunday, March 25, 9 a.m. to noon, Volcano Art Center. Beginners workshop for keiki ages 11 and up - must be accompanied by an adult. Register in advanced; class limited to 6 children. $50 per VAC member and $55 per non-member, plus $10 supply fee. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

PALM TRAIL, Sunday, March 25, 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Moderately difficult, 2.6-mile loop traverses scenic pastures along an ancient cinder cone, with some of the best panoramic views Kahuku has to offer. nps.gov/HAVO

TUESDAY, MARCH 27
HAWAI‘I COUNTY COUNCIL MEETINGS, Tuesday and Wednesday, March 27 (committees)/28 (Council), Kona. Ka‘ū residents can participate via videoconferencing at Nā‘ālehu State Office Building. Agendas at hawaiicounty.gov

WALK INTO THE PAST WITH DR. THOMAS A. JAGGAR, Tuesday, March 27, at 10 a.m., noon, and 2 p.m., at Kīlauea Visitor Center. Each performance lasts about an hour. To find out more about this 2018 weekly (except July and Aug) living history program, visit the park website: nps.gov/havo/planyourvisit/walk_into_the_past.htm

HOVE Road Maintenance Monthly Meeting, Tue, Mar 27, 10 a.m., RMC Office in Ocean View. hoveroad.com, 929-9910

KA‘Ū FOOD PANTRY, Tuesday, March 27, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., St. Jude's Episcopal Church in Ocean View.

TRACKING LAVA LAKES WITH THE SOUNDS FROM BURSTING GAS BUBBLES, After Dark in the Park, Tuesday, March. 27, 7 p.m., at Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium. Free; a $2 donation is suggested to support park programs. For more, visit nps.gov/HAVO

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 28
HAWAI‘I COUNTY COUNCIL MEETING, Wednesday, March 28 (Council), in Kona. Ka‘ū residents can participate via videoconferencing at Nā‘ālehuState Office Building. Agendas at hawaiicounty.gov

KŌKUA KUPUNA PROJECT, Wednesday, March 28, 9 - 11 a.m., St. Jude's Episcopal Church, Ocean View. Seniors, 60 years and  older, encouraged to attend, ask questions, and inquire about services offered through Legal Aid Society of Hawai‘i - referral required from Hawai‘i County Office of Aging at 961-8626 for free legal services. Under 60, call 1-800-499-4302. More info: tahisha.despontes@legalaidhawaii.org, 329-3910 ext. 925, legalaidhawaii.org

HŪ (HAWAIIAN TOP) DEMONSTRATION, Wednesday, March 28, 10 a.m. to noon, Kīlauea Visitor Center lānai, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Make a Hū and learn the game. Part of Hawai‘i Volcanoes' ‘Ike Hana No‘eau "Experience the Skillful Work" workshops. Free. nps.gov/HAVO

THURSDAY, MARCH 29
STEWARDSHIP OF KῙPUKAPUAULU Thursday, March 29. Meet at 9:30 a.m., Kīpukapuaulu parking lot, Mauna Loa Rd, off Hwy 11. Bring clippers or pruners, sturdy gloves, a hat, water, closed-toe shoes; fabrics may be permanently stained by morning glory sap. New volunteers, contact Marilyn Nicholson at nickem@hawaii.rr.com

POETRY READING WITH 'THE POETS OF 1958' - Laura Mullen, Marthe Reed, and Susan M. Schultz - Thursday Night at the Center, March 29, 7 to 9 p.m. Free; $5 donation suggested. volcanoartcenter.org

FRIDAY, MARCH 30
COFFEE TALK, Friday, March 30, 9:30 - 11 a.m., Kahuku Park. Join park rangers in an informal conversation on a variety of topics. This month: Rapid ‘Ōhi‘a Death. Ka‘ū coffee, tea, and pastries available for purchase. Free. nps.gov/HAVO

ONGOING
TŪTŪ AND ME OFFERS HOME VISITS to those with keiki zero to five years old: home visits to aid with helpful parenting tips and strategies, educational resources, and a compassionate listening ear. Home visits are free, last 1.5 hours, two to four times a month, for a total of 12 visits, and snacks are provided. For info and to register, call Linda Bong 646-9634

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Thursday, March 22, 2018

Ka‘ū News Briefs Thursday, March 22, 2018

Opihi picking is a traditional Hawaiian practice, with the limpets living on rocks in the surf zone a treasured 
delicacy in Hawaiian cuisine. Art by Deitrich Varez, whose work can be seen at Volcano Art Center.
AN OPIHI PICKER FROM WAI‘ŌHINU perished on Wednesday at Kahakahakea Point, two miles south of Pohu‘e Bay, when he fell into the water and was unable to surface. A U.S. Coast Guard C-130 plane and Coast Guard Helicopter were deployed in the air. On the water, a Coast Guard Cutter headed toward the shore. Hawai‘i Police Department and Fire Department rescue crews traveled by land.
     The crew of the plane spotted the lifeless opihi picker about 40 to 50 feet from shore in about 15 feet of water. He was extricated by helicopter with a Billy Pugh net and lifted to the Landing Zone at the bottom of Maikai Blvd. in Ocean View's Ranchos. The medic unit transferred the victim to Ka‘ū Hospital.
Opihi pickers often risk their lives in rough surf on 
slippery rocks. Art by Deitrich Varez, whose work 
can be seen at Volcano Art Center.
     The Hawai‘i Fire Department described the scene as "rugged lava terrain with significant coastal surges. Ground access to scene was over an hour via a 4X4 road."
     Opihi pickers frequently descend to slippery shorelines, with ocean waves pounding, in order to harvest the limpets from the rocks. Opihi picking is often called the most dangerous occupation in Hawai‘i. Opihi - popular for baby lu‘u's, weddings, and other Hawaiian gatherings - sells at Suisan Market for $15 a pound in the shell and $40 a pound cleaned from the shell, according to prices quoted today.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

THE HŌKŪLEʻA IS ON STANDBY TO COME TO MILOLIʻI. Crew member Mariah Hugo said on Thursday afternoon that the channel between Oʻahu and Hawaiʻi Island is very rough and it is undecided when Hōkūleʻa will sail from Honolulu to Miloliʻi.
     The planned schedule was to leave as early as Thursday morning. If Hōkūleʻa sets sail tomorrow, she can still make it to Mololiʻi by Sunday. The public is invited to meet the crew and the 62-foot, double hull sailing canoe, which is on a goodwill voyage after spending three years traveling around the world. See Wednesday's Kaʻū News Briefs.
     In the meantime, the Hōkūleʻa crew posted on its facebook page: "It's World Water Day! We all have a connection to water. Roughly half our bodies are made up of water and we can't live without it," and urged people to conserve water. See the short film they posted.
      See more on the predicted arrival time of Hōkūleʻa at Miloliʻi in Friday's Kaʻū News Briefs.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

A LIVE TELEPHONE TOWN HALL, hosted by Rep. Tulsi Gabbard on Monday, March 19, drew more than 4,400 attendees, according to an announcement from Gabbard. The evening focused on her Securing America's Elections Act, HR5147, which would require the use of paper ballots or voter-verified paper backups in federal elections. Gabbard, along with guests Karen Hobert Flynn, President of Common Cause, and Brian Fox, Board Member of the National Association of Voting Officials, answered questions on several subjects, including:
Rep. Tusli Gabbard
   ● The current vulnerabilities of U.S. federal elections and actions that can be taken to better protect election systems from hackers.
   ● How open source elections software works.
   ● Expanding voting access in Hawaiʻi and nationwide, including bills like the Weekend Voting Act and Automatic Voter Registration Act that Rep. Gabbard has cosponsored.
   ● Emergency funding included in the Securing America's Elections Act to update states' elections systems to include paper ballots/records before the 2018 elections.
   ● The negative impact of weak election security on voter turnout.
     Click here to listen to the full audio recording of this event.
     A legislative update was also issued by Gabbard, including constituent services, actions she's taken to respond to and address Hawaiʻi's false missile alert, strengthen school safety in Hawaiʻi and nationwide, and assist Hawaiʻi families with federal agency casework, among other things.
     Gabbard said: "Hawaiʻi is one of just 15 states in the country that are currently protected from hackers by having secure paper records of each vote cast. Our telephone townhall was an opportunity to discuss what has worked in Hawaiʻi, and how systems like that can be implemented nationwide through my Securing America's Elections Act. We also discussed important initiatives at both the state and federal level to expand voting access, like weekend voting, automatic voter registration, same day voter registration, and more. The need to protect the integrity of our elections and every vote cast is urgent and must be addressed before the 2018 elections and beyond."
     Brian Fox, Board Member of the National Association of Voting Officials, said, "We are pleased to see Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard leading the country toward safe and secure election systems. The open source software language in her legislation, in addition to the necessary paper ballot component, will give appropriate security direction to the nation's election officials. Congresswoman Gabbard is appreciated as a pioneer advocating the science of protecting our democracy."

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

AGRIBUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION is the focus of two House bills - HCR224 and HR194 - both submitted by Rep. Richard Creagan, that are calling for transparency by way of a Management and Financial audit of the business. A hearing with the committee on Agriculture deferred the measure from March 21 to March 23, this Friday.
     The bills state the corporation "was established to administer an aggressive and dynamic agribusiness development program," "is a public body corporate and politic and an instrumentality and agency of the State," and "is accountable to the people of Hawai'i."
     Hawai‘i Farmers Union United urges residents to submit testimonies in support of the bills.
Tagged coffee tree, with mature green berries. Photos from UH

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Mature green berries, picked in the coffee
plot where UH conducts its studies.
COFFEE PRODUCERS AND THEIR TREES are the focus of a University of Hawai‘i College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources announcement sent earlier this week. Andrea Kawabata, Associate Extension Agent of coffee and Orchard Crops, writes about Early Season CBB Activity andManagement , outlining monitoring and actions taken by UH, and recommending steps for coffee producers to diminish pervasive coffee berry borer infestations affecting the coffee industry.
     Kawabata's recommendations include removing the first flush of green berries or spraying.
Coffee tree laden with blossoms.
Recording flowering helps indicate
when beans will begin to show.
     "Economic research shows that early-season CBB control can lead to lower costs and damage rates during harvest when CBB integrated pest management recommendations are followed. Strip-picking, monitoring and spraying should be thought of as an investment towards your harvested crop," states the announcement.
     With over 85% of dissected beans in the coffee plot used being positive for CBB, Kawabata urges coffee farmers to, "be prepared, monitor/sample your crop, and decide to spray your coffee or physically remove and destroy mature green berries to control CBB early in the season."

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Keiki playing konane - Hawaiian checkers. See story for more free
 Hawaiian cultural demonstrations being offered at Hawai‘i Volcanoes 
National Park during week of 55th Merrie Monarch Festival. 
Photo from National Park Service  
THREE DAYS OF SPECIAL MERRIE MONARCH FESTIVAL EVENTS have been announced by Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park to take place on April 3-5, on the lānai of Kīlauea Visitor Center, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The events honor the 55th Merrie Monarch Hula Festival with Hawaiian cultural demonstrations and live music.
     On Tuesday, Apr. 3, practitioners share: ‘ahu lai, tī leaf cape making; ko‘i, Hawaiian axe demonstration; and kā makau, Hawaiian fishhook making. Jennie & Kanoa play live Hawaiian, Blues, and Country music blends.
     On Wednesday, Apr. 4, practitioners share demonstrations on: ulana niu, coconut leaf weaving; ‘upena ho‘olei, throwing net; and nā pa‘ahana hula, hula implements. Ti "Kawehi" Chun and Pōki‘i Seto offer live contemporary Hawaiian music.
     On Thursday, Apr. 5, practitioners share demonstrations on: kapa, traditional Hawaiian bark cloth; konane, Hawaiian checkers; and nā lei, lei making. Kenneth Makuakāne offers live Hawaiian music.
     Part of Hawai‘i Volcanoes' ‘Ike Hana No‘eau “Experience the Skillful Work” workshops. Free; park entrance fees apply. For more, visit nps.gov/HAVO.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

See public Ka‘ū events, meetings, entertainment at kaucalendar.com
/janfebmar/februaryevents.html. See Ka‘ū exercise, meditation, daily, 
February print edition of The Ka‘ū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes 
throughout Ka‘ū, from Miloli‘i through Volcano. Also available free on 
stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com.

KA‘Ū TROJANS SPORTS SCHEDULE
Girls Softball: Saturday, Mar 24 @ Kealakehe
   Saturday, Mar 31 @ Honoka‘a
   Monday, Apr 2, @ Kohala
   Saturday, Apr 7, Hawai‘i Prep @ Ka‘ū
   Monday, Apr 9, @ Pāhoa
   Wednesday, Apr 11 @ KSH
   Saturday, Apr 14, Kea‘au @ Ka‘ū
Boys Volleyball: Friday, Mar 23 Pāhoa @ Ka‘ū
   Tuesday, Apr 3, @ Waiakea
   Wednesday, Apr 11, Kea‘au @ Ka‘ū
   Friday, Apr 13, Honoka‘a @ Ka‘ū
   Monday, Apr 16, @ Hilo
   Friday, Apr 20, Parker @ Ka‘ū

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LAST DAY TO REGISTER FOR ARTS & CRAFTS: SPRING FLOWER COLLAGE. Event is Fri, Mar 23, 2:45 - 3:45 p.m., Kahuku Park, Hawaiian Ocean View Estates, for ages 6 to 12. Free. Teresa Anderson, 929-9113, hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation

LAST WEEKEND OF KDEN'S HOW THE OTHER HALF LOVES - shows through March 24. Performances Fri/Sat at 7:30 p.m., Sun. at 2:30 p.m, Kīlauea Military Camp's Kīlauea Theater, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Kīlauea Drama & Entertainment Network performance. KMC open to authorized KMC patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. Call KDEN for ticket info, 982-7344.
FINAL DAY OF TĪ AND SEAS ART EXHIBIT, SUNDAY, MARCH 25, at Volcano Art Center Gallery, featuring oil paintings by Pāhoa resident Steve Irvine.  Open to the public, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., daily - volcanoartcenter.org or 967-8222.

AVOCADO GRAFTING FOR COMMERCIAL GROWERS WORKSHOP Register by Monday, March 26, for Hilo, and Tuesday, March 27, for Kona. Workshops scheduled for: Wednesday, March 28, 1:30 to 4:30 p.m., at Komohana Research and Extension Center, 875 Komohana St, Room D-202, Hilo, HI 96720. Kona will hold two workshops, at 9 a.m. to noon or 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., on Thursday, March 29, at Kona Cooperative Extension Service, Conference Room, 79-7381 Mamalahoa Highway, Kealakekua, HI 96750. Class Fee is $25 per person, per workshop; registration required. RSVP online, or by contacting Gina at 322-4892, at least two days prior to the workshop.

FRIDAY, MARCH 23
THE NATURE CONSERVANCY HOSTS A VOLUNTEER WORKDAY on Fri, Mar 23, at its Kona Hema Preserve Honomolino (located across Hwy 11 from Miloli‘i), from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Space is limited. Linda Schubert at 443-5401 or lschubert@tnc.org.

STEWARDSHIP AT THE SUMMIT Fri, Mar 23. Meet Paul and Jane Field at Kīlauea Visitor Center at 8:45 a.m. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and long pants, and bring a hat, raingear, day pack, snacks, and water. Gloves and tools provided. Parental or guardian accompaniment, or written consent, required for volunteers under 18. Visit park website for additional planning details: nps.gov/havo/planyourvisit
/summit_stewardship.htm

SATURDAY, MARCH 24
EDIBLE WILD PLANTS: A Hands-On Foray for Foragers and Foodies, Sat, Mar 24, 8 a.m. to noon. Meet at Volcano Art Center. Hands-on immersion and discovery. $30 per VAC member and $40 per non-member, plus a $15 transportation fee. Pre-registration required; class size limited. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

KEIKI STAINED GLASS, Sat & Sun, Mar 24 & 25, 9 a.m. to noon, Volcano Art Center. Beginners workshop for keiki ages 11 & up - must be accompanied by an adult. Register in advance; class limited to 6 children. $50 per VAC member and $55 per non-member, plus $10 supply fee. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

MONGOLIAN BBQ, Sat, Mar 24, 5 - 8 p.m. Kīlauea Military Camp's Crater Rim Café, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. $0.85/ounce - choice of 13 veggies, 4 meats, sauces, chow mein, and beverage. Park entrance fees apply. KMC is open to all authorized KMC patrons and sponsored guests. 967-8356, kilaueamilitarycamp.com

WRITING FOR INNER EXPLORATION AND LIFE REFLECTION, Sat, Mar 24, 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Volcano Art Center. No previous writing experience necessary. $65 per VAC member and $75 per non-member. Bring lunch and pictures of parent/parents. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

SUNDAY, MARCH 25
KEIKI STAINED GLASS, Sun, Mar 25, 9 a.m. to noon, Volcano Art Center. Beginners workshop for keiki ages 11 & up - must be accompanied by an adult. Register in advanced; class limited to 6 children. $50 per VAC member and $55 per non-member, plus $10 supply fee. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

PALM TRAIL, Sun, Mar 25, 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Moderately difficult, 2.6-mile loop traverses scenic pastures along an ancient cinder cone, with some of the best panoramic views Kahuku has to offer. nps.gov/HAVO

TUESDAY, MARCH 27
HAWAI‘I COUNTY COUNCIL MEETINGS, Tue/Wed, Mar 27 (committees)/28 (Council), Kona. Ka‘ū residents can participate via videoconferencing at Nā‘ālehu State Office Building. Agendas at hawaiicounty.gov

WALK INTO THE PAST WITH DR. THOMAS A. JAGGAR, Tue, Mar 27, at 10 a.m., noon, and 2 p.m., at Kīlauea Visitor Center. Each performance lasts about an hour. To find out more about this 2018 weekly (except July and Aug) living history program, visit the park website: nps.gov/havo/planyourvisit/walk_into_the_past.htm

HOVE Road Maintenance Monthly Meeting, Tue, Mar 27, 10 a.m., RMC Office in Ocean View. hoveroad.com, 929-9910.

KA‘Ū FOOD PANTRY, Tue, Mar 27, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., St. Jude's Episcopal Church in Ocean View.

TRACKING LAVA LAKES WITH THE SOUNDS FROM BURSTING GAS BUBBLES, After Dark in the Park, Tue, Mar. 27, 7 p.m., in the Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium. Free; a $2 donation is suggested to support park programs. For more, visit nps.gov/HAVO

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 28
HAWAI‘I COUNTY COUNCIL MEETING, Wed, Mar 28 (Council), in Kona. Ka‘ū residents can participate via videoconferencing at Nā‘ālehuState Office Building. Agendas at hawaiicounty.gov

KŌKUA KUPUNA PROJECT, Wed, Mar 28, 9 - 11 a.m., St. Jude's Episcopal Church, Ocean View. Seniors, 60 years & older, encouraged to attend, ask questions, and inquire about services offered through Legal Aid Society of Hawai‘i - referral required from Hawai‘i County Office of Aging at 961-8626 for free legal services. Under 60, call 1-800-499-4302. More info: tahisha.despontes@legalaidhawaii.org, 329-3910 ext. 925. legalaidhawaii.org

HŪ (HAWAIIAN TOP) DEMONSTRATION, Wed, Mar 28, 10 a.m. to noon, Kīlauea Visitor Center lānai, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Make a Hū and learn the game. Part of Hawai‘i Volcanoes' ‘Ike Hana No‘eau "Experience the Skillful Work" workshops. Free. nps.gov/HAVO

THURSDAY, MARCH 29
STEWARDSHIP OF KῙPUKAPUAULU Thu, Mar 29. Meet at 9:30 a.m., Kīpukapuaulu parking lot, Mauna Loa Rd, off Hwy 11. Bring clippers or pruners, sturdy gloves, a hat, water, closed-toe shoes; fabrics may be permanently stained by morning glory sap. New volunteers, contact Marilyn Nicholson at nickem@hawaii.rr.com.

POETRY READING WITH 'THE POETS OF 1958' - Laura Mullen, Marthe Reed, and Susan M. Schultz - Thursday Night at the Center, March 29, 7 to 9 p.m. Free; $5 donation suggested. volcanoartcenter.org

ONGOING
TŪTŪ AND ME OFFERS HOME VISITS to those with keiki zero to five years old: home visits to aid with helpful parenting tips and strategies, educational resources, and a compassionate listening ear. Home visits are free, last 1.5 hours, two to four times a month, for a total of 12 visits, and snacks are provided. For info and to register, call Linda Bong 646-9634.

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