Ka‘ū News Brief Saturday, April 14, 2018

Valerie Gali urges residents to Hoʻolohe - Listen, then ask questions about SpinLaunch. She receives a round of applause 
in the middle of residents who were overwhelmingly against locating a space launch facility in Kaʻū. 
Photo from Big Island Video News

SPINLAUNCH WOULD CHOOSE KAʻŪ ONLY WITH COMMUNITY BACKING: The company's representatives made the promise to more than 100 people who attended the public meeting Saturday concerning the proposed space launch facility. Hawaiian cultural practitioner Nohea Kaʻawa's request for a show of hands resulted in about 99 going up in opposition to space launches from Kaʻū, with one in support. Veteran opponents of other space launch proposals and development along the Kaʻū Coast joined the opposition.

     Signs at Nāʻālehu Community Center and on Hwy 11 carried such slogans as "No to SpinLaunch" and  "Defend the Hawksbill." They referred to the Pohuʻe Bay hawksbill turtle nesting area at the bottom of the 16,455 acre Kaʻū property. The property, for sale for $18 million, is one of six considered for the SpinLaunch project site proposed for the Hawaiian Islands.

Maile David, who represents Kaʻū on the County Council, thanked
 SpinLaunch and Sen. Glen Wakai, as she introduced them at the
community meeting on the space launch facility.
Photo from Big Island Video News

     One opponent suggested a SpinLaunch location at Loʻihi Seamount, just offshore of Kaʻū, as the active underwater volcano will likely rise from the ocean to become an island some tens of thousands of years from now.

     Kaʻū County Council member Maile David opened the meeting, thanking the SpinLaunch representatives and Sen. Glenn Wakai, who supports the technology, for making the presentations tot the community. The council member said the meeting was "necessary today." She looked forward to people leaving the meeting, with "some sense of either closure or I don't know what," she said, raising her arms, inviting the community to listen to the SpinLaunch presentation and decide.

     SpinLaunch representatives and the state Senator from Oʻahu, who proposed a $25 million Special Revenue Bond at the Hawaiʻi Legislature to help finance SpinLaunch, answered questions. They shared SpinLaunch history, including the tract above Pohuʻe Bay becoming a possible location for new technology that would catapult small satellites into space at a lower cost than solid fuel rockets.

     In reference to Pohuʻe as a possible site, Wakai said he came to the public meeting to apologize for "causing lots of trepidation in this community," which led the Aha Moku Advisory Committee to the state Department of Land & Natural Resources to call for the public meeting. 

Ryan Hampton of SpinLaunch promised that the space launch facility 

would not come to Kaʻū without the community's backing.

Photo from Big Island Video News

     Wakai explained that he met SpinLaunch representatives last year on Oʻahu, as chair of the state Senate Committee on Economic Development, Tourism & Technology. When they talked about how they would use electricity to spin and catapult satellites into space at an affordable cost, Wakai said, he was skeptical and visited them at their headquarters last October in Sunnyvale, CA. Wakai said he saw a prototype in a vacuum chamber and the SpinLaunch team "launch, through centripetal force, a projectile into a wall."

     After seeing that the plan was serious and not just make believe or something on paper, or diagrams on a website, Wakai said, he proceeded to find out more. He said he was interested in opening up aerospace economic opportunities for Hawaiʻi. "I like innovation. I like making life better. More and more of our life is dependent on this," he said, pointing to his cell phone. "We are going to need more satellites," he said.

     To connect with the community, Wakai said, he talked to the Sierra Club and The Nature Conservancy in Honolulu. "That was where my discussion with the community ended and that's where I was wrong in not coming here months ago to tell you about this proposal. Whether you agree with it or not - you are due that - and I apologize I was not here pre-January." the Honolulu Senator also emphasized to the Kaʻū crowd that Pohuʻe was only one of a number of possible Hawaiʻi locations.

     Wakai said that Sen. Josh Green, who represents west Kaʻū and voted along with all other South Hawaiʻi state Senators against the SpinLaunch bond, let him know there was resistance here. Wakai said he quickly realized that Pohuʻe Bay could be inappropriate.

Nohea Kaʻawa called for a hands up on who opposed
SpinLaunch and who approved. About 99 persons
of 100 raised their hands against the project.
Photo from Big Island Video News

     Wakai also said that he wanted to make sure people understand that the Special Purpose Revenue Bond is not money coming out of state tax coffers, but a mechanism to raise funding for the project through bond markets, the money coming from private investors. He said that after passing the Senate, the Special Purpose Revenue Bond is at a critical stage in its possible approval by the 2018 Hawaiʻi Legislature.

     Representing SpinLaunch at the meeting were Raphael Feldman, a project manager, and Ryan Hampton, in charge of location and facilities. Hampton explained that SpinLaunch was interested in using a portion of the Pohuʻe property for launch site and buffer, while possibly turning over the rest of the property, including the Pohuʻe Bay area, to a conservancy or other entity acceptable to the community. He said he could envision Kaʻū residents having increased access to the shore around Pohuʻe Bay, which is currently limited with the existing owners blocking public access by road. However, if the community does not want to work with SpinLaunch toward mutual goals, Hampton insisted, the company will not attempt to come here.

Signs and speakers of opposition Saturday, as SpinLaunch and
an Oʻahu Senator make a presentation on the space launch possibility.
Photo from Big Island Video News

     Hampton gave the history of SpinLaunch technology, saying the concept - to send up satellites affordably to make for better internet and other technological advances - faced "complete opposition in the aerospace community," before its initial testing. However, "We pulled it off," he said, describing the hands-on construction of the first testing site for the prototype.

     He emphasized that the SpinLaunch team has "limited resources. We’re not Boeing, We’re not Raytheon. We're not part of the big six," he said, referring to large technology and aerospace companies. He said SpinLaunch is a very small company, with trusted friends, family, and experts helping. "We're privately funded. There was a point when we dipped down near zero before pulling back through with financing. To be able to get to a point that we can even stand in front of you guys right now is absolutely baffling to me that we made it this far," he told Kaʻū residents.

     He again insisted that, "We would not and are not going to come to Kaʻū without community support. We don't have the resources to do it or the manpower. This is a group of guys and girls that have an amazing product to help propel space forward. But we need a community to get behind us or we can't even start."

     When some community members interrupted the SpinLaunch presentation, proclaiming they don't want the space launches here, Darlyne Vierra, of the Aha Moku Advisory Committee, stepped in and asked for the public to allow SpinLaunch to make the presentation and then ask questions.

Peacekeepers Darlyne Vierra, left, and Valerie Gali, along with Sen.
Glenn Wakai, the Oʻahu legislator who proposed the SpinLaunch bonds.
Photo from Big Island Video News

     When interruptions continued, Valerie Gali stepped forward and said, "We're not going to get anywhere if everybody keeps interrupting. Hui - Hoʻolohe - first, listen, then ask the questions," she said to a big round of applause. "Enough already. We want solutions and the only way we going get solutions is if we listen." She told the crowd, "Got to let them talk, then we can share our manaʻo. Why we love Pohuʻe, why we love Kaʻū, why we don't want them here. Why we want it for us too. We got to hear 'em from their mouths. I don't want to hear second-hand message. I want to hear it directly from the people who putting them out. That's why I’m here. I want to know what is it the truth. Then I can ask my question and everybody can do the same. But if we keep interrupting, we're not going to hear, we're not going to have our chance and the meeting's going to be forever like every other meeting. I don’t want our meeting to be forever. I want it to be concise. I want my questions answered. So enough already. Come on. Let's listen!" Most people again applauded.
     See more on the SpinLaunch presentation, community questions, answers, and community and political leaders' statements of opposition and other proclamations in tomorrow's Kaʻū News Briefs.

     Watch and listen to more than an hour of the meeting presented by Big Island Video News.

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 SECTOR MAPPING TOOL to assist incoming students with making a better decision on their career path was presented last month by Peter Quigley, University of Hawaiʻi Community Colleges' Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs, to a delegation hosted by Sen. Kaiali‘i Kahele. The tool provides an avenue for the business sector and UH to identify and address future workforce needs.

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.

Mini-Bazaar Fundraiser event at Kauaha‘ao Congregational Church on 
Saturday, April 14. Photo by Geneveve Fyvie

MINI-BAZAAR FUNDRAISER AT KAUAHA‘AO CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH in Wai‘ōhinu on Saturday, April 14, brought vendors of jewelry, original artwork, baked goods, chocolate, fruit and vegetables, filipino food, henna tattoos, solar lights, and second-hand items such as clothes, toys, and trinkets. O Ka‘ū Kakou sold shaved ice. The church sold canned beverages, baked goods - such as brownies and banana bread - and two plate lunch choices: smoked meat and rice with onion or roast chicken and rice. The Kauaha‘ao Congregational Church hosts is main Bazaar fundraiser annually in November.

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.

ROSE ADARE OFFERS A GOLD LEAF AND ILLUMINATION WORKSHOP on Saturday, April 21, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Volcano Arts Center. The class is open to all levels of painters.

Learn about Gold Leaf and Illumination at a workshop in 
Volcano. Photo from volcanoartcenter.org

     Students learn how to lay out and prepare their materials to implement gold, copper, or silver leaf in the most effective way possible. Tutorials include how to incorporate leaf with under-paintings and over-paintings, how to work highlights and shadows into their paintings, the distinction between warm and cool light, and how to seal leaf properly. Other topics include metallic pigments and metal paints.
     Adare is a graduate of the San Francisco Academy of Art University, and trained under the esteemed living master David Hardy. Adare began her Fine Art career at The Muse Studio, founding the annual Muse Showcase: A Celebration in Art and Music, in Berkeley, California. Struck by a municipal train in 2005, Adare spent the following years in physical rehabilitation and retaught herself how to paint, returning to the art scene in 2009. Adare's portrait series Restraint & Revolution was featured as part of a three-woman concurrent solo show at the Maui Arts and Cultural Center, and went on tour throughout the states with 21 evocative oil paintings.
     Students are asked to bring painting supplies (oils or acrylics, brushes, solvents, mediums if the artist chooses to use them, and cleaning supplies), including three different photos to work with and two small canvases, no bigger than 11"x14". The class fee is $60 per Volcano Art Center Member and $65 per non-Member, plus a $15 supply fee. The supply fee will be waived for those who bring their own gold leaf sizing and sealant. For more, visit volcanoartcenter.org.

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 TROJANS GIRLS SOFTBALL LAST SPRING GAME yesterday, April 14, was a loss at 5 to 18 against Kea‘au, but a good effort from the team. Lead Pitcher CeAndra Silva-Kamei scored 3 strike-outs during the game.

     Analei Emmsley, Rebekah Polido-Kalili, Shanastie Hu Blanco, and Shaylani Viera each hit 1 Single, Tiare Wong Yuen hit 2 Singles, and Chaunalisa Velez hit a Double.

     The last two Spring season games, boys volleyball, are this coming week. See full schedule, 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.

See Ka‘ū exercise, meditation, daily, and weekly events.

Print edition of The Ka‘ū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes 

throughout Ka‘ū, from Miloli‘i through Volcano, and free on 

stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com.

KA‘Ū TROJANS SPORTS SCHEDULE

Boys Volleyball: 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.

MONDAY, APRIL 16

Discovery Harbour Neighborhood Watch Meeting, Mon, Apr 16, 5 - 6:30 p.m., Discovery Harbour Community Hall. 929-9576, discoveryharbour.net

TUESDAY, APRIL 17
Hawai‘i County Council Finance Committee Special Meetings, Tue, Wed, & Thu, Apr 17, 18, & 19, Hilo, beginning at 9 a.m. Departmental Budget & Program Reviews. Ka’ū residents can participate via videoconferencing at Nā‘ālehu State Office Building. Agendas at hawaiicounty.gov

Pāhala Community Center Offers Clothespin Plane and Car, an Arts & Crafts activity for keiki, grades K through 8, on Wed, April 18, from 3:30 to 5 p.m. Register until Tue, April 17. For more, contact Nona Makuakane at 928-3102. See hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation for more county park programs.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18
Ocean View Community Association Board Meeting, Wed, Apr 18, noon - 1 p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

300 Meter Races for Keiki Ages 6 to 12 take place at Kahuku Park, Hawaiian Ocean View Estates, on Fri, April 20, from 2 to 3 p.m., hosted by Hawai‘i County Parks and Recreation. Registration open through Wed, April 18. Athletic shoes required. For more, contact Teresa Anderson at 929-9113. See hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation for more county park programs.

Keiki, Ages 6 to 12, Welcomed to Paint a Rainbow. Register by Wed, April 18. Free Hawai‘i County Parks and Recreation Arts & Crafts program, Tue, April 24, Kahuku Park in Hawaiian Ocean View Estates, 2:45 to 3:30 p.m. Contact Teresa Anderson at 929-9113, hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation for more county park programs.

THURSDAY, APRIL 19
Veteran's Center & VA Medical Services, Thu, Apr 19, 8:30 a.m. - noon, Ocean View Community Center. No appointment needed to visit w/ VA counselor & benefit specialist. Matthew, 329-0574, ovcahi.org

Hawai‘i Disability Legal Services, Thu, Apr 19, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., Ocean View Community Center. ovcahi.org, 939-7033, ovcahawaii@gmail.com

Story Time with Auntie Linda from Tūtū & Me, Thu, Apr 19, 10:30 a.m. - noon, Nā‘ālehu Public Library. 929-8571

Family Reading, Thu, Apr 19, 6 - 7 p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Hawaiian Civic Club of Ka‘ū, Thu, Apr 19, 6:30 p.m., United Methodist Church in Nā‘ālehu. Pres. Berkley Yoshida, 747-0197

FRIDAY, APRIL 20
‘Ohe Kapala, Hawaiian Bamboo Stamping, Fri, Apr 20, 10 a.m. - noon, Kahuku Unit, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Part of Hawai‘i Volcanoes' ‘Ike Hana No‘eau "Experience the Skillful Work" workshops. Free. nps.gov/HAVO

SATURDAY, APRIL 21
Fee-Free Day at Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, Sat, Apr 21. Park entrance fees waived in celebration of National Park week. nps.gov/HAVO

National Park Week, Sat - Sun, Apr 21 - Apr 29, Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park & Kahuku Unit. "Park Stars" themed events (nighttime star party, guided hikes, ranger-led adventures, volunteer opportunities) to be announced. nps.gov/HAVO

Realms and Divisions of Kahuku, Sat, Apr 21, 9:30 - 11:30 a.m., Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Moderately difficult, two-mile, guided hike on Kahuku Unit’s newest trail, Pu‘u Kahuku, explores the traditional Hawaiian classification system. Bring a snack.

Gold Leaf and Illumination w/Rose Adare, Sat, Apr 21, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Volcano Art Center. Students learn how to use gold, copper or silver leaf. Includes metallic pigments and paints. Class fee $60/VAC member, $65/non-member, plus $15 supply fee. Register: volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

The Art Express, Sat, Apr 21, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Discovery Harbour Community Hall. Instructions on oil, acrylic, watercolor, and other mediums; old or new projects. Monthly class size limited to 25. Meliha Corcoran 319-8989, himeliha@yahoo.com, discoveryharbour.net/art-express

Bunco & Potluck, Sat, Apr 21, 6 p.m., Discovery Harbour Community Hall. Popular game played with nine dice, also known as Bonko or Bunko. Bring dish to share. Margie Hack, 541-954-8297

Ka‘ū Coffee Festival: Miss Ka‘ū Coffee Pageant, Sat, Apr 21, 6 p.m., Ka‘ū District Gym. Tickets, $10 donation. Ka‘ū Coffee Pageant Director Trinidad Marques, 928-0606, TrinidadMarques@yahoo.com, or Facebook Trinidad Marques. kaucoffeefestival.com

Ka‘ū High School Students Compete on It's Academic - Hawai‘i, re-air, Sat, Apr 21, 6:30 p.m., Channel 5 (KFVE). Watch live stream on KFVE.com. More info.

SUNDAY, APRIL 22
‘Ōhi‘a Lehua, Sun, Apr 22, 9:30 - 11 a.m., Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Learn about the vital role of ‘ōhi‘a lehua in native Hawaiian forests, and the many forms of the ‘ōhi‘a tree and its flower on this free, easy, one-mile walk. nps.gov/HAVO

ONGOING

National Park Week, Sat - Sun, Apr 21 - Apr 29, Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park & Kahuku Unit. "Park Stars" themed events (nighttime star party, guided hikes, ranger-led adventures, volunteer opportunities) to be announced. nps.gov/HAVO

One Community and One Parent Representative are sought by Nāʻālehu Elementary School Community Council. Nominations will be accepted from April 2 through April 16 at 3 p.m. The community representative will serve a two-year term for school year 2018-2019 and 2019-2020. The parent representative will serve a one-year term for school year 2018-19. The parent rep cannot be a Nāʻālehu Elementary School employee.

     The campaign for the positions starts April 16. Voting is April 30 through May 11. Those interested, contact Leilani Rodrigues at 313-4020 or pcnc@naalehu.org, or name and number at the main office line, by calling 313-4000.

Volcano Art Center Gallery Presents Ho’oku’i I Nā Kiko, Connecting the Dots, by Natalie Mahina Jensen and Lucia Tarall. "A curated collection of photographs, paintings, sculptures, and feather work items deliver a sublime message, connecting the viewer artistically with the provenance of the design." Daily, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., through Sunday, May 6. volcanoartcenter.org or 967-8222

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.

Kaʻū Coffee Recipe Contest registration open through Friday, April 20, limit one entry per category, per contestant. Recipes will be judged Sunday, April 29, 11 a.m., at Ka‘ū Coffee Mill. Youth and adult submissions judged separately. Categories are pūpū, entrée, and dessert; all recipes must be made with (any) Ka‘ū Coffee. Entry info at kaucoffeemill.com or kaucoffeefestival.com, or call 808-928-0550. Entry forms can also be found at Ka‘ū Coffee Mill or Mizuno Market; forms below. Email for info/with questions sales@kaucoffeemill.com

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 News Brief Friday, April 13, 2018

"Captain Mark" Jeffers of Kauaʻi's Storybook Theatre Hawaiʻi, with his inflatable tiger shark, interacts with and teaches 
students about the marine animal. Jeffers visits Pāhala Elementary, giving his educational presentations to Pre-K through 
3rd grade classes on Tuesday, April 17. See full story, below. Photo from Storybook Theatre of Hawaiʻi

SPINLAUNCH MEETS WITH KAʻŪ RESIDENTS TOMORROW, SATURDAY, 10 a.m., at Nāʻālehu Community Center. The Sunnyvale, Calif., tech company is searching in Hawaiʻi for a place to launch small satellites into space. When Kaʻū residents, who advise the state Department of Land & Natural Resources, learned that land above Pohuʻe Bay was being considered as a possible location, their Aha Moku Advisory Committee called for SpinLaunch to meet the people.

     The group also asked the Hawaiʻi Legislature to hold back on assisting SpinLaunch with $25 million in funding through Special Purpose Revenue Bonds until its plans could be further vetted. However, the state Senate voted on Tuesday to approve the bonds with the only Senators voting against it coming from districts closest to Pohuʻe Bay - those from Kona to Kaʻū, Kaʻū to Puna, and Hilo.
     SpinLaunch representatives Ryan Hampton and Raphael Feldman are expected to talk with Ka‘ū residents, along with Sen. Glenn Wakai of O‘ahu, who introduced the revenue bonds into the Senate.

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.

Officer Paul Mangus lights the Flame of Hope from a lava flow in Kalapana. 
Photo from Hawaii Police

LAVA LIT THE HAWAI‘I SPECIAL OLYMPICS FLAME OF HOPE TORCH this week. Special Olympics Hawai‘i members, police officers from O‘ahu and here, and members of the Coast Guard took a seven-hour hike to find a lava flow On Kilauea Volcano to light the torch. It will be carried from place to place to "help light the journey for Special Olympics Hawaiʻi athletes participating in the State Summer Games," says a statement from Special Olympics Organizers.

     The flame ignited by Kilauea Volcano lava will be transferred in miner's lamps around Hawai‘i Island. The Flame of Hope will make an appearance this Saturday, April 14, during the East Hawaiʻi Law Enforcement Torch Run, and on Saturday, April 21, during the West Hawaiʻi Law Enforcement Torch Run.

     The flame will be transported to Kaua‘i, Maui and, O‘ahu, carried by the crews of the USCG Cutter Oliver Berry and the USCG Cutter Ahi, as they conduct operational duties and training.

Malia Conner, shown with her participation ribbons 
and gold, silver, and bronze medals from Special 
Olympics events participated in over ten 
years. Photo by Cate Brooks

     Later this month, police officers will carry the flame during their annual Law Enforcement Torch Run on O‘ahu, where statewide law enforcement officers from federal, state, and county agencies will run to raise awareness, funds, and hope for people with intellectual disabilities. The First Hawaiian Bank Troy Barboza Law Enforcement Torch Run is named after Troy Barboza, a Honolulu Police Department officer who spent his off-duty time coaching Special Olympics athletes. This is the only Torch Run program in the world named after a fallen officer. Since it was first established, the Torch Run has raised over $7,297,442 for Special Olympics Hawaiʻi.
     Cindy Ujimori, Special Olympics Hawaiʻi vice president of community outreach, said the organization "has helped bring intellectual disabilities out of the darkness and into the light, creating a community of understanding and respect.

     "Since 1968 Special Olympics has helped change attitudes about the talents of people with intellectual disabilities, creating a more inclusive, welcoming world for all," she said.

     Mary Ann "Malia" Conner - who participated in Special Olympics Hawaiʻi for ten years, doing bowling, soccer, t-ball, and bocce ball - and her mother, Colleen, volunteered for the yearly Cop on Top fundraiser, to help fund the trips to Oʻahu for Hawaiʻi Island participants. Malia said being in the Special Olympics was a "phenomenal experience, lots of friends. I felt like a winner and an athlete."

   For more information on Special Olympics Hawai‘i please contact (808) 695-3533 or visit sohawaii.org. Also, follow Special Olympics Hawai‘i on Twitter @sohawaii, on Facebook at facebook.com/SpecialOlympicsHawaii, and on Instagram at instagram.com/sohawaii. 

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.

"Captain Mark" with his giant inflatable tiger shark, teaching
students about the marine animal. Photo from Jeffers

TIGER SHARK IS THE STORYBOOK THEATRE OF HAWAI`I'S attraction at Pāhala Elementary School next Tuesday, April 17. Director and storyteller Mark Jeffers as come with his cast of characters from Russell the Rooster to whales and dolphins to Kaʻū for many years. He shares his story telling around the state and as far south as the Cook Islands. Storybook Theatre og Hawai`i is based in Hanapepe, on Kauaʻi .
     The presentation on Monday includes education about the life of sharks, and their place in the health and ecosystem of the oceans.
     With children sitting inside the belly of his blow-up shark, Jeffers will offer stories to Pre-K students from 11:45 a.m. - 12:15 p.m., Kindergarten from 12:15 - 12:45 p.m., Grade 1 from 12:45 - 1:15 p.m., Grade 2 from 1:15 - 1:30 p.m., and Grade 3 from 1:30 - 2 p.m.

     Pāhala Plantation Cottages is helping to sponsor the Pāhala part of Story Book Theatre of Hawaiʻi's tour of this island.

     To book a show, contact director@storybook.org or 808-335-0712.

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.

Glow from Halemaʻumaʻu in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Photos from nps.gov

HAWAI‘I VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK ENTRANCE FEES will increase, effective January 1, 2020, to $30 per vehicle, $25 per motorcycle, and $15 per pedestrian or bicycle - each pass good for seven days. The National Park Service's announcement states the increase will provide additional funding for infrastructure and maintenance needs to enhance the visitor experience.

     The annual Tri Park Pass, an annual pass that allows visitors unlimited entry to the three fee-charging national parks in Hawai‘i - Hawai‘i Volcanoes and Haleakalā National Parks, and Pu‘uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park - will increase in phases. Starting June 1, 2018, the Tri Park Pass will go from $30 to $50, and to $55 in January 2020. Revenue from entrance fees remains in the National Park Service and helps ensure a quality experience for all who visit. At Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, at least 80 percent of entrance fees stay in the park and are devoted to spending that supports visitors to that location. The other 20 percent of entrance fee income is shared with other national parks for their projects.

Lava flow eating a tree in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.

     In response to public comments on a fee proposal released by NPS in October 2017, the changes reflect a modest increase for all fee-charging parks, rather than the higher peak-season fees initially proposed for 17 highly visited national parks on the mainland.

     "When I began my tenure at Hawai‘i Volcanoes in 2004, the park was approaching its 100th anniversary, but it already looked 100 years old. The Centennial and subsequent years have seen additional stressors to park infrastructure, trails and historic buildings, and the corrosive environment of an erupting volcano doesn't help. The $5 increase, effective in January of  2020, will mitigate these effects as we continue to address deferred maintenance within the park," said Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park Superintendent Cindy Orlando.

     National parks have experienced record-breaking visitation, with more than 1.5 billion visitors in the last five years. Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park had 2,016,702 visitors in 2017, and in 2016, visitors spent $159,195,500 in communities near the park. That spending supported 1,917 jobs in the local area and had a cumulative benefit to the local economy of $199,923,400. 2017 economic data is not yet available. Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park has had an entrance fee since 1987. The price of the annual America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Lands Annual Pass and Lifetime Senior Pass will remain $80.

Ribbons of lava, flowing in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.

     Throughout the country, the combination of an aging infrastructure and increased visitation has put a strain on park roads, bridges, campgrounds, waterlines, bathrooms, and other visitor services, and led to an $11.6 billion deferred maintenance backlog nationwide. The additional revenue from entrance fees at Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park will include a new roof at Jaggar Museum, the rehabilitation of the ‘Ōhi‘a Wing into a cultural museum and archives, and improvements to the park's water system and park trails, including heavily used front country trails like Halema‘uma‘u and ‘Iliahi trails.

     Visit nps.gov for more, or follow at facebook.com/nationalparkservice, twitter.com/natlparkservice, and youtube.com/nationalparkservice.

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 COFFEE BORER BEETLE CONFERENCE SEEKS COFFEE FARM HOSTS for extension agents, researchers, and farmers visiting from Puerto Rico. The conference organizers are looking for estate farmers who are willing to host a 1-2 hour coffee farm tour for the group on Thursday, April 26th. The group is specifically looking to tour farms that are vertically integrated, meaning that the farmer grows and processes their coffee on farm.

     Farmers available to host a tour may email andreak@hawaii.edu with the following information: owner/operator name, farm name, physical farm address (to estimate travel time), email, phone number, how many acres of coffee, is a conventional or organic farming method used, is the coffee grown and processed on the farm, and is the farm accessible by 2-wheel drive car.

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.

KAʻŪ TROJANS GIRLS SOFTBALL had a difficult game Wednesday against Kamehameha Schools, scoring just 1 point against their opponent's 11. The last Spring softball game happens tomorrow, April 14.

See public Ka‘ū events, meetings, entertainment.

See Ka‘ū exercise, meditation, daily, and weekly events.

Print edition of The Ka‘ū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes 

throughout Ka‘ū, from Miloli‘i through Volcano, and free on 

stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com.

     Boys Volleyball has three more games, one today, two next week. See schedule, 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.

KA‘Ū TROJANS SPORTS SCHEDULE

Girls Softball: Saturday, Apr 14, Kea‘au @ Ka‘ū

Boys Volleyball: 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.

SATURDAY, APRIL 14
PANCAKE BREAKFAST AND RAFFLE, Sat, Apr 14, 8 - 11 a.m., Ocean View Community Center. To volunteer, call 939-7033, ovcahi.org

MINI-BAZAAR FUNDRAISER, Sat, Apr 14, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., Kauaha‘ao Congregational Church, Ka’ū. Vendor "flea market", hot foods/plate lunches, baked goods, and more.

GARDEN SUCCESS IN HAWAI‘I, Sat, Apr 14, 9 a.m. - noon, County Extension Office, across from Aloha Theater, Kainaliu. Event features plant sale, demo garden, how to grow from containers, plant questions answered, info on rat lungworm and fire ants, keiki activities, and more. Every family that attends will receive a free tomato plant. Master Gardener Helpline, 322-4895

PAINT YOUR OWN SILK SCARF with Patti Pease Johnson, Sat, Apr 14, 9 - 12:30 p.m., Volcano Art Center. $45/VAC member, $50/non-member, plus $10 supply fee per person. Beginner and intermediate artists welcome. Register: volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

BIRTH OF KAHUKU, Sat, Apr 14, 9:30 - 11:30 a.m., Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Explore the rich geologic history on this easy-to-moderate hike that traverses the vast 1868 lava flow. nps.gov/HAVO

KĀWĀ VOLUNTEER DAY, Sat, Apr 14, 9:30 a.m., Kāwā. Sign up with James Akau, Nā Mamo o Kāwā, at namamookawa@gmail.com or 430-3058.

ZENTANGLE: DINGBATZ, Sat, Apr 14, 10 - 1 p.m., Volcano Art Center. $30/VAC member, $35/non-member, plus $10 supply fee per person. Basic knowledge of Zentangle recommended by not required. Register: volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

HULA KAHILO WITH KINI KA‘AWA & Kua O Ka La Public Charter School, Sat, Apr 14, 10:30 - 11:30 a.m., kahua hula (hula platform) at Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Hula performance. Free; park entrance fees apply. volcanoartcenter.org

NĀ MEA HULA w/ Kumu Hula Kaho‘okele Crabbe & Hālauolaokalani, Sat, Apr 14, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m., Volcano Art Center Gallery lānai, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Cultural demonstration. Free. volcanoartcenter.org

JAZZ IN THE FOREST Concert, Sat, Apr 14, 4:30 p.m. & 7 p.m., Volcano Art Center. Retrospective tribute to Miles Davis - revisiting his compositions and styles of the six distinct periods of his creative output. Tickets available online, volcanoartcenter.org, $18/VAC member or $20/non-member. 967-8222

MONGOLIAN BBQ, Sat, Apr 14, 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

SUNDAY, APRIL 15
PEOPLE AND LAND OF KAHUKU, Sun, Apr 15, 9:30 - 12:30 p.m., Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Free, guided, 2.5-mile, moderately difficult hike over rugged terrain focuses on the area’s human history. nps.gov/HAVO

KA‘Ū HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS compete on It's Academic - Hawai‘i, Sun, Apr 15, 7 p.m., re-air Sat, Apr 21, 6:30 p.m., Channel 5 (KFVE). Watch live stream on KFVE.com. More info.

MONDAY, APRIL 16
DISCOVERY HARBOUR NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH MEETING, Mon, Apr 16, 5 - 6:30 p.m., Discovery Harbour Community Hall. 929-9576, discoveryharbour.net

TUESDAY, APRIL 17
HAWAI‘I COUNTY COUNCIL FINANCE COMMITTEE SPECIAL MEETINGS, Tue, Wed, & Thu, Apr 17, 18, & 19, Hilo. Departmental Budget & Program Reviews. Ka’ū residents can participate via videoconferencing at Nā‘ālehu State Office Building. Agendas at hawaiicounty.gov

PĀHALA COMMUNITY CENTER OFFERS CLOTHESPIN PLANE AND CAR, an Arts & Crafts activity for keiki, grades K through 8, on Wed, April 18, from 3:30 to 5 p.m. Register until Tue, April 17. For more, contact Nona Makuakane at 928-3102. See hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation for more county park programs.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18
OCEAN VIEW COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION Board Meeting, Wed, Apr 18, noon - 1 p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

300 METER RACES FOR KEIKI AGES 6 TO 12 take place at Kahuku Park, Hawaiian Ocean View Estates, on Fri, April 20, from 2 to 3 p.m., hosted by Hawai‘i County Parks and Recreation. Registration open through Wed, April 18. Athletic shoes required. For more, contact Teresa Anderson at 929-9113. See hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation for more county park programs.

KEIKI, AGES 6 TO 12, WELCOMED TO PAINT A RAINBOW. Register by Wed, April 18. Free Hawai‘i County Parks and Recreation Arts & Crafts program, Tue, April 24, Kahuku Park in Hawaiian Ocean View Estates, 2:45 to 3:30 p.m. Contact Teresa Anderson at 929-9113, hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation for more county park programs.

THURSDAY, APRIL 19
VETERAN'S CENTER & VA MEDICAL SERVICES, Thu, Apr 19, 8:30 - noon, Ocean View Community Center. No appointment needed to visit w/ VA counselor & benefit specialist. Matthew, 329-0574, ovcahi.org

HAWAI‘I DISABILITY LEGAL SERVICES, Thu, Apr 19, 9 - 1 p.m., Ocean View Community Center. ovcahi.org, 939-7033, ovcahawaii@gmail.com

STORY TIME WITH AUNTIE LINDA from Tūtū & Me, Thu, Apr 19, 10:30 - noon, Nā‘ālehu Public Library. 929-8571

FAMILY READING, Thu, Apr 19, 6 - 7 p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

HAWAIIAN CIVIC CLUB OF KA‘Ū, Thu, Apr 19, 6:30 p.m., United Methodist Church in Nā‘ālehu. Pres. Berkley Yoshida, 747-0197

FRIDAY, APRIL 20
‘OHE KAPALA, HAWAIIAN BAMBOO STAMPING, Fri, Apr 20, 10 a.m. - noon, Kahuku Unit, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Part of Hawai‘i Volcanoes' ‘Ike Hana No‘eau "Experience the Skillful Work" workshops. Free. nps.gov/HAVO

ONGOING

ONE COMMUNITY AND ONE PARENT REPRESENTATIVE are sought by Nāʻālehu Elementary School Community Council. Nominations will be accepted from April 2 through April 16 at 3 p.m. The community representative will serve a two-year term for school year 2018-2019 and 2019-2020. The parent representative will serve a one-year term for school year 2018-19. The parent rep cannot be a Nāʻālehu Elementary School employee.

     The campaign for the positions starts April 16. Voting is April 30 through May 11. Those interested, contact Leilani Rodrigues at 313-4020 or pcnc@naalehu.org, or name and number at the main office line, by calling 313-4000.

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.

VOLCANO ART CENTER GALLERY PRESENTS HO’OKU’I I NĀ KIKO, Connecting the Dots, by Natalie Mahina Jensen and Lucia Tarall. "A curated collection of photographs, paintings, sculptures, and feather work items deliver a sublime message, connecting the viewer artistically with the provenance of the design." Daily, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., through Sunday, May 6. volcanoartcenter.org or 967-8222

KAʻŪ COFFEE RECIPE CONTEST registration open through Friday, April 20, limit one entry per category, per contestant. Recipes will be judged Sunday, April 29, 11 a.m., at Ka‘ū Coffee Mill. Youth and adult submissions judged separately. Categories are pūpū, entrée, and dessert; all recipes must be made with (any) Ka‘ū Coffee. Entry info at kaucoffeemill.com or kaucoffeefestival.com, or call 808-928-0550. Entry forms can also be found at Ka‘ū Coffee Mill or Mizuno Market; forms below. Email for info/questions sales@kaucoffeemill.com

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 News Brief Thursday, April 12, 2018

Rep. Tulsi Gabbard visited Syria and met with women whose husbands were dead or away fighting, sometimes
on different sides of the battles. She concluded that there is no win for Syrian people through war escallation.
Photo by Abraham Williams

PEACE, NOT WAR IN SYRIA, is what Kaʻū's Representative in Congress, Tulsi Gabbard, is pushing, with a letter to Pres. Donald Trump. She asks Kaʻū residents to sign it. Gabbard visited Syria and met with religious leaders and people living in shelters, camps, and bombed out homes, in January 2017. With Trump threatening to strike Syria following apparent use of chemical weapons there, Gabbard sent out an online appeal this morning:

     "The people of Syria have suffered through years of brutal civil war, and all they want more than anything is peace. If President Trump decides to launch a U.S. military attack against Syria, it will not bring them peace - it will only bring more devastation to their war-torn country. Terrorist forces like ISIS, al-Qaeda, Jaysh al-Islam and others will be resurrected and reinvigorated, increasing suffering, death, and destruction, and causing more innocent civilians to flee the violence and seek refuge in other parts of the world.

 

Gabbard said that many children living in shelters she visited, like this
one in Allepo, have only known war in their lives. However, they
know the peace sign. Photo by Abraham Williams

   "We cannot keep repeating the same mistakes of the past and expect a different outcome. I've sent this letter to President Trump to urge him to work for peace, rather than escalating and expanding the war through a military attack against Syria. This is not a partisan issue. Will you join me in calling for peace today?

     "Launching a U.S. military attack against Syria spells further suffering for the Syrian people, prolongs and escalates the war, and continues to strip away American taxpayer dollars that are needed in our communities right here at home. If President Trump truly cares about mitigating the suffering of the Syrian people, he must work toward peace.

     "Co-sign my letter to President Trump and urge him to resist the calls for war with Syria.

     "We must end our costly, counterproductive regime change wars. War, violence, chaos, and destruction is what terrorist groups like ISIS and al-Qaeda in Syria want - because it makes them stronger in their quest. Speak up now to stop the march toward war. Add your name to my letter to President Trump 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.

A MORATORIUM ON NEW ACTIVITIES ON MAUNAKEA passed the state Senate today through House Bill 1585, with a 15 to 8 vote. In the meantime, the board of directors for the planned Thirty Meter Telescope is determining whether it should take its project to the Canary Islands in Spain.

Canary Islands, with its own astronomy campus, waits for the opportunity
 to host the Thirty Meter Telescope. Photo from TMT

     Hawaiʻi Public Radio issued a news headline today, saying, "Mauna Kea Bill Could Spell the End to TMT."

     The TMT group set April as a deadline to settle the matter on whether it could situate the world's most powerful telescope on Maunakea. The board was considering extending its deadline past April to allow legal proceedings to reach completion. The addition of the new moratorium by the Hawaiʻi Legsilature, however, could seal the deal for Spain, reported HPR.

     In the House, the bill could draw opposition from both pro-TMT and anti-TMT organizations. Richard Ha, a board member of PUEO, which stands for Perpetuating Unique Educational Opportunities, supports TMT. "If we impose a moratorium so what happens to the Thirty Meter Telescope? Are we saying we're just going to kill it? I don't think that's what we want to do," said Ha.

     Kealoha Pisciotta, president of Mauna Kea Anaina Hou, said she opposes the moratorium because it could wind up with the management of Maunakea "back in the hands" of the University of Hawaiʻi.

     According to the HPR report, "The board of directors for TMT is expected to announce it's decision tomorrow on whether Mauna Kea is worth a longer wait."

     The bill also calls for an audit of U.H., concerning its management of Maunakea, and a review and updating of rules on activities at the summit and its campus of telescopes.
     After passing the bill today, the Senate sends it back to the House.

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.

Observatories atop Maunakea. Bills passed today in the state Senate would either require auditing of University of Hawaiʻi, the current management, or hand over management to a new Authority. Photo from bigstock

A BILL TO REMOVE MAUNAKEA MANAGEMENT FROM U.H. and the state Department of Land & Natural Resources also passed the state Senate today, with a 21 to 2 vote. House Bill 1985 would give over responsibility to Maunakea Management Authority. Members would be selected by a new Mauna Kea Candidate Advisory Council and Office of Hawaiian Affairs.

     The Authority would be funded by the State, with $800,000 for fiscal year 2018-2019. It would include start up costs and up to $250,000 for administration, capital improvement projects, and other purposes.
     The bill would also restrict the number of telescopes on Maunakea to 13, limit the footprint of development to no more than the land being used as of Dec. 2031, and change how the public accesses the summit. The bill would require the Management Authority to conduct a comprehensive review of all existing commercial tour permits, fees, and associated environmental impacts, and there would be the possibility of eliminating commercial tours to the summit by Jan. 1, 2020.
     After passing the bill today, the Senate sends it back to the House.

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.

SPINLAUNCH WILL MEET WITH THE PUBLIC, Sat, Apr 14, 10 a.m., Nā‘ālehu Community Center. SpinLaunch representatives Ryan Hampton and Raphael Feldman, who are looking for a location for a space launch facility, plan to talk with Ka‘ū community, along with Sen. Glenn Wakai of O‘ahu.
     The meeting will be hosted by the Aha Moku Advisory Committee to the state Department of Land & Natural Resources, which asked the state Senate to hold back a $25 million Special Purpose Revenue Bond until the company talks to the community about the possibility of Pohu‘e Bay becoming the location. The bond bill passed a third reading in the Senate on Tuesday.

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.

Allan Simeon is confirmed as new Public Works Director

for County of Hawaiʻi. Photo from DPW

NEW COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR received confirmation from the County Council on Wednesday. Allan G. Simeon, P.E., previously served as the Department's Deputy Director, and has served as the Acting Director of the Department of Public Works since October 1, 2017.

     "Each day is a blessing and each blessing is an opportunity to do something good for the people of our Hawai‘i Island Community, for our families, and for ourselves," Simeon said.

     Simeon is a licensed professional engineer and joined the county as a civil engineer in 1997. He has appointed Merrick H. Nishimoto as his Deputy Director. Nishimoto previously served as a civil engineer stationed at the West Hawai‘i office and has been with the county since 2007.

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'S TAX BURDEN IS ONE OF THE HIGHEST IN THE U.S., according to a new WalletHub study. With Tax Day fast approaching and a new tax code recently signed into law by President Trump, WalletHub has just made its 2018 Tax Burden by State report and 2018 Tax Facts infographic available. In order to determine which states tax their residents most aggressively,

WalletHub compared the 50 states based on the three components of state tax burden - property taxes, individual income taxes, and sales and excise taxes - as a share of total personal income.

     Hawai‘i is second-highest overall, second only to New York. Hawai‘i is highest in the nation in Total Sales & Excise Tax Burden at 6.52 percent, and second highest in the nation in Overall Tax Burden at 11.57 percent. The Individual Income Tax Burden is still high, ranking tenth at 2.85 percent. Property Tax Burden is fairly low, ranking 41st at 2.2 percent, but that may change if Senate Bill 2922 becomes law. It aims to raise money through taxing expensive investment properties and vacation rentals. See the full report.

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.

Park Ranger demonstrates Tī Leaf Sledding.
NPS Photo

RACE DOWN PU‘U O LOKUANA IN A TĪ LEAF SLED and join Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park and Hawai‘i Pacific Parks Association staff at Kahuku in a test of courage, will, speed, and agility in a traditional Hawaiian game using he‘e hōlua kī. The free event takes place from 10 a.m. to noon on Friday, Apr. 20.
     The event is part of Hawai‘i Volcanoes' ‘Ike Hana No‘eau "Experience the Skillful Work" workshops. The Kahuku Unit is a 50-minute drive south of the park's main entrance. Enter Kahuku near mile marker 70.5 on the mauka (inland) side of Highway 11. For more, see 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.

KEIKI, AGES 6 TO 12, WELCOMED TO PAINT A RAINBOW, a free Hawai‘i County Parks and Recreation Arts & Crafts program, on Tuesday, April 24, at Kahuku Park, Hawaiian Ocean View Estates. The class runs from 2:45 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Register on Wednesday, April 18. For more, contact Teresa Anderson at 929-9113. See hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation for more county park programs.

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.

KAʻŪ TROJANS BOYS VOLLEYBALL games on Wednesday against Keaʻau were a solid wall of victories, with both JV games and all three Varsity games being won by the Trojan boys; four of five games were won while the Trojans were 12 or 13 points ahead.
     Three Spring season games remain; see below for full schedule.

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.

See Ka‘ū exercise, meditation, daily, and weekly events.

Print edition of The Ka‘ū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes 

throughout Ka‘ū, from Miloli‘i through Volcano, and free on 

stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com.

KA‘Ū TROJANS SPORTS SCHEDULE

Girls Softball: Saturday, Apr 14, Kea‘au @ Ka‘ū

Boys Volleyball: 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.

FRIDAY, APRIL 13
KA‘Ū DISTRICT GYM BASKETBALL CLINIC Sat, April 14; register through Friday, April 13. 9 to 11 a.m., registered keiki in ages groups 11-12 years old, 13-14 years old and those in high school are welcome. Three on three basketball will be taught to keiki in age groups 5-6 years old, 7-8 years old, and 9-10 years old, from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more, contact Nona Makuakane at 928-3102. See hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation for more county park programs.

PĀHALA PUBLIC AND SCHOOL LIBRARY 55th Anniversary Celebration, Fri, Apr 13, 2 - 4 p.m. The event offers music, food, games and prizes. librarieshawaii.org/events

SATURDAY, APRIL 14
PANCAKE BREAKFAST AND RAFFLE, Sat, Apr 14, 8 - 11 a.m., Ocean View Community Center. To volunteer, call 939-7033, ovcahi.org

MINI-BAZAAR FUNDRAISER, Sat, Apr 14, 9 - 2 p.m., Kauaha‘ao Congregational Church, Ka’ū. Vendor "flea market" - $10 for 10' X 10'. Vendors can sell anything except hot foods/plate lunches. For info or to reserve vendor space, call Walter or Debbie at 928-8039, in the evening.

GARDEN SUCCESS IN HAWAI‘I, Sat, Apr 14, 9 - noon, County Extension Office, across from Aloha Theater, Kainaliu. Event features plant sale, demo garden, how to grow from containers, plant questions answered, info on rat lungworm and fire ants, keiki activities, and more. Every family that attends will receive a free tomato plant. Master Gardener Helpline, 322-4895

PAINT YOU OWN SILK SCARF with Patti Pease Johnson, Sat, Apr 14, 9 - 12:30 p.m., Volcano Art Center. $45/VAC member, $50/non-member, plus $10 supply fee per person. Beginner and intermediate artists welcome. Register: volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

BIRTH OF KAHUKU, Sat, Apr 14, 9:30 -11:30 a.m., Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Explore the rich geologic history on this easy-to-moderate hike that traverses the vast 1868 lava flow. nps.gov/HAVO

KĀWĀ VOLUNTEER DAY, Sat, Apr 14, 9:30 a.m., Kāwā. Sign up with James Akau, Nā Mamo o Kāwā, at namamookawa@gmail.com or 430-3058.

SPINLAUNCH PROPOSAL PUBLIC MEETING, Sat, Apr 14, 10 a.m., Nā‘ālehu Community Center. SpinLaunch representatives Ryan Hampton and Raphael Feldman come to talk with Ka‘ū Community, along with Sen. Glenn Wakai of O‘ahu.

ZENTANGLE: DINGBATZ, Sat, Apr 14, 10 - 1 p.m., Volcano Art Center. $30/VAC member, $35/non-member, plus $10 supply fee per person. Basic knowledge of Zentangle recommended by not required. Register: volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

HULA KAHILO WITH KINI KA‘AWA & Kua O Ka La Public Charter School, Sat, Apr 14, 10:30 - 11:30 a.m., kahua hula (hula platform) at Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Hula performance. Free; park entrance fees apply. volcanoartcenter.org

NĀ MEA HULA w/ Kumu Hula Kaho‘okele Crabbe & Hālauolaokalani, Sat, Apr 14, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m., Volcano Art Center Gallery lānai, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Cultural demonstration. Free. volcanoartcenter.org

JAZZ IN THE FOREST Concert, Sat, Apr 14, 4:30 p.m. & 7 p.m., Volcano Art Center. Retrospective tribute to Miles Davis - revisiting his compositions and styles of the six distinct periods of his creative output. Tickets available online, volcanoartcenter.org, $18/VAC member or $20/non-member. 967-8222

MONGOLIAN BBQ, Sat, Apr 14, 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

SUNDAY, APRIL 15
PEOPLE AND LAND OF KAHUKU, Sun, Apr 15, 9:30 - 12:30 p.m., Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Free, guided, 2.5-mile, moderately difficult hike over rugged terrain focuses on the area’s human history. nps.gov/HAVO

KA‘Ū HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS compete on It's Academic - Hawai‘i, Sun, Apr 15, 7 p.m., re-air Sat, Apr 21, 6:30 p.m., Channel 5 (KFVE). Watch live stream on KFVE.com. More info.

MONDAY, APRIL 16
DISCOVERY HARBOUR NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH MEETING, Mon, Apr 16, 5 - 6:30 p.m., Discovery Harbour Community Hall. 929-9576, discoveryharbour.net

TUESDAY, APRIL 17
HAWAI‘I COUNTY COUNCIL FINANCE COMMITTEE SPECIAL MEETINGS, Tue, Wed, & Thu, Apr 17, 18, & 19, Hilo. Departmental Budget & Program Reviews. Ka’ū residents can participate via videoconferencing at Nā‘ālehu State Office Building. Agendas at hawaiicounty.gov

PĀHALA COMMUNITY CENTER OFFERS CLOTHESPIN PLANE AND CAR, an Arts & Crafts activity for keiki, grades K through 8, on Wed, April 18, from 3:30 to 5 p.m. Register until Tue, April 17. For more, contact Nona Makuakane at 928-3102. See hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation for more county park programs.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18
OCEAN VIEW COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION Board Meeting, Wed, Apr 18, noon - 1 p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

300 METER RACES FOR KEIKI AGES 6 TO 12 take place at Kahuku Park, Hawaiian Ocean View Estates, on Fri, April 20, from 2 to 3 p.m., hosted by Hawai‘i County Parks and Recreation. Registration open through Wed, April 18. Athletic shoes required. For more, contact Teresa Anderson at 929-9113. See hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation for more county park programs.

KEIKI, AGES 6 TO 12, WELCOMED TO PAINT A RAINBOW. Register by Wed, April 18. Free Hawai‘i County Parks and Recreation Arts & Crafts program, Tue, April 24, Kahuku Park in Hawaiian Ocean View Estates, 2:45 to 3:30 p.m. Contact Teresa Anderson at 929-9113, hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation for more county park programs.

THURSDAY, APRIL 19
VETERAN'S CENTER & VA MEDICAL SERVICES, Thu, Apr 19, 8:30 - noon, Ocean View Community Center. No appointment needed to visit w/ VA counselor & benefit specialist. Matthew, 329-0574, ovcahi.org

HAWAI‘I DISABILITY LEGAL SERVICES, Thu, Apr 19, 9 - 1 p.m., Ocean View Community Center. ovcahi.org, 939-7033, ovcahawaii@gmail.com

STORY TIME WITH AUNTIE LINDA from Tūtū & Me, Thu, Apr 19, 10:30 - noon, Nā‘ālehu Public Library. 929-8571

FAMILY READING, Thu, Apr 19, 6 - 7 p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

HAWAIIAN CIVIC CLUB OF KA‘Ū, Thu, Apr 19, 6:30 p.m., United Methodist Church in Nā‘ālehu. Pres. Berkley Yoshida, 747-0197

ONGOING

ONE COMMUNITY AND ONE PARENT REPRESENTATIVE are sought by Nāʻālehu Elementary School Community Council. Nominations will be accepted from April 2 through April 16 at 3 p.m. The community representative will serve a two-year term for school year 2018-2019 and 2019-2020. The parent representative will serve a one-year term for school year 2018-19. The parent rep cannot be a Nāʻālehu Elementary School employee.

     The campaign for the positions starts April 16. Voting is April 30 through May 11. Those interested, contact Leilani Rodrigues at 313-4020 or pcnc@naalehu.org, or name and number at the main office line, by calling 313-4000.

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.

VOLCANO ART CENTER GALLERY PRESENTS HO’OKU’I I NĀ KIKO, Connecting the Dots, by Natalie Mahina Jensen and Lucia Tarall. "A curated collection of photographs, paintings, sculptures, and feather work items deliver a sublime message, connecting the viewer artistically with the provenance of the design." Daily, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., through Sunday, May 6. volcanoartcenter.org or 967-8222

KAʻŪ COFFEE RECIPE CONTEST registration open through Friday, April 20, limit one entry per category, per contestant. Recipes will be judged Sunday, April 29, 11 a.m., at Ka‘ū Coffee Mill. Youth and adult submissions judged separately. Categories are pūpū, entrée, and dessert; all recipes must be made with (any) Ka‘ū Coffee. Entry info at kaucoffeemill.com or kaucoffeefestival.com, or call 808-928-0550. Entry forms can also be found at Ka‘ū Coffee Mill or Mizuno Market; forms below. Email for info/questions sales@kaucoffeemill.com

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.