Kaʻū News Briefs Thursday, July 26, 2018

Earthquakes shaking the ground at Kīlauea's summit Thursday, July 25, stirring up rock dust within Halema`uma`u 
and along the caldera walls. This view from the northeast caldera rim looks across at the Keanakāko`i 

and South Sulphur Banks areas. USGS photo

TODAY'S COLLAPSE EVENT, NUMER 58 AT HALEMA`UMA`U, shook Volcano Village at 12:09 p.m., 53 hours after the last one. In recent weeks, the timing has been about 30 to 40 hours between each event, that usually generates energy equivalent to a 5.1 to 5.4 magnitude earthquake. The events are created by the collapse of the crater and the draining of the lava lake, which are connected to the lava flow in lower Puna that continues to take out houses, farms, forests, reefs, and parks.
     The previous Halema`uma`u collapse event occurred Tuesday, July 24, at 6:41 a.m., measuring 4.5M. Today's measured at 5.3M. The collapsing of crater walls is revealing more of the South Sulphur Banks.

     The small tremors in between the collapse events in recent weeks were about 25 to 35 per hour, until the past two days when they were about 20 to 40 per hour.

Lava appeared stalled on Thursday morning near Pohoiki, the boat ramp, parking area remaining.
Photo by Bruce Omori of Extreme Exposure, Paradise Helicopters

     Scientists at USGS Hawaiian Volcanoes Observatory said they are studying whether this indicates a change in pattern. However, they said the lower East Rift Zone surges in lava that often followed collapse events at Halema`uma`u did not happen on July 24, and that the river of lava flowing from Fissure 8, today appears lower and more sluggish.

     The flow threatening Pohoiki and Isaac Hale Park did not move much in the last day; the lava was still about 500 feet from the boat ramp, Thursday afternoon.

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.

Cracks in Highway 11 near Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park.
Photo from BigIslandVideoNews.com

HIGHWAY 11 IS DOWN TO ONE LANE, between mile marker 28 and 32, near the entrance to Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. The highway is being shaken and damaged by earthquakes.
     Repair work is expected to continue through Friday early evening. Both lanes will be open during the weekend, then workers will be back to work on the road, taking the highway back down to one lane on Monday. Workers will be using ground-penetrating radar to assess the status of the road bed under the tarmac, according to Jessica Ferracane of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park.

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.

Elections Administrator Pat Nakamoto

Photo from hgea.com 

ELECTION DAY WORKERS, VOLUNTEERS ARE NEEDED IN NĀ`ĀLEHU and at other polling places in West Hawai`i, according to Elections Administrator Pat Nakamoto. A shortage of workers could result in a late night of vote tallying and statewide delays in announcing the winners in the Saturday, Aug. 11, primary. The county is still short 20 poll workers at West Hawai`i precincts.
     "These volunteers are an important part of the voting process," Nakamoto said, according to West Hawai`i Today. "Without these individuals stepping up to serve their communities on election day we could not open polling places. A shortage of workers will cause delays for voters and may contribute to voters not voting."
     Poll workers are needed for precincts 05/01 Nā`ālehu Elementary School, 05/04 Ho`okena Elementary School, 05/05 Saint Benedict Catholic Church, 05/06 Konawaena Elementary School, 05/07 Konawaena High School, and 06/05 Kona Palisades.
     Precinct officials are paid $85, for work from 5:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Volunteers must be: a registered voter, at least 16 years old, and able to read and write English. Volunteers may not a candidate, attempted candidate, or related to a candidate that can be voted for in the precinct in which they are working.

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.

WANTED: Brian Smith
5'7'' with blue eyes and grey hair
Anyone knowing his whereabouts, call 911
Photo from Hawai`i County Police

ANOTHER ALLEGED MURDERER IS ON THE LOOSE ON HAWAI`I ISLAND. Police are looking for Brian Smith, of Honaunau, who was mistakenly released from Hawai`i Community Correctional Center in Hilo two days ago and failed to show up at court today. He was being held in lieu of $1.2 million bail, charged with Murder One and Two, firearms violations, and carrying a firearm in commission of a separate felony. It remains unclear how he was able to leave jail.
     A bench warrant was issued this afternoon. The charges involve a murder on June 23 on Painted Church Road in South Kona. Thomas Balleteros, Jr. died of gunshot wounds.
     Police describe Smith as 5'7'' with blue eyes and grey hair, and urge anyone knowing his whereabouts to call 911.

     Gov. David Ige issued a statement this evening about the erroneous release of Smith: "I am upset and deeply concerned about the erroneous release of pre-trial detainee Brian Smith. Residents on Hawai`i Island have had to deal with the lava emergency and the recent murder of a police officer, and I know this news is another blow.

     "Our number one priority right now is your safety, and that means getting the suspect into custody. I assure you that law enforcement agencies are doing everything they can to locate him. I urge all Hawai`i residents to remain alert and call 911 if they see or hear something that could help.

     "As is standard operating procedure, the department is investigating to determine what led to this error. I have asked Public Safety Department Director Nolan Espinda to personally oversee this investigation and report back to me as information is gathered."

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.

Image from BigIslandVideoNews.com

FOUR SUSPECTS WANTED IN CONNECTION WITH OFFICER BRONSON KALILOA'S MURDER have met with police, says a release from Hawai`i County Police. The release says police are "continuing the investigation into individuals who may have provided assistance to Justin Waiki while on the run after he shot and killed Officer Bronson Kaliloa on July 17."

     Police say 31-year-old Joey Ikaka Camacho was arrested for outstanding warrants; 47-year-old Shaun Candaroma of Hilo contacted detectives; and 26-year-old Pomaikai Martin and 27-year-old Latoya Poepoe-Spalding were arrested for outstanding warrants this morning, July 25, "by patrol officers responding to a tip about their location within a vehicle at Bayfront."

     Police say the prosecution investigation "is in its early stages, and many more people need to be interviewed, some as witnesses and others as potential suspects."

     Police ask that anyone who had contact with Justin Waiki between the time of the shooting on Tuesday, July 17, at 9:47 p.m., and his apprehension on Friday, July 20, at 2:45 p.m, or knows someone who had contact with him, to contact Detective William Brown of the Area I Criminal Investigation Section at (808) 961-2384 or William.brown@hawaiicounty.gov.

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.

NEW and UPCOMING

Photo from Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park Facebook

MAKE LEI WITH RANGERS THIS WEEKEND at `Ike Hana No`eau: Experience the Skillful Work programs, held every Saturday and Sunday at 12:30 p.m. in Kahuku Unit of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. The programs last an hour and are free to attend.
     On Saturday, July 28, park rangers and staff from Hawai`i Pacific Parks Association share their knowledge and passion for Lei Making in the tightly woven lei haku style. On Sunday, July 29, make Lei Haku - the traditional haku style of lei-making involves braiding materials into a base of leaves to create a full and beautiful adornment.
     Kahuku Unit of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park does not charge entrance fees. Find the entrance to the Kahuku Unit of the park located south of the 70.5 mile marker, mauka (mountain side) of Highway 11. For more about this and other Kahuku Unit programs, visit nps.gov/havo/planyourvisit/kahuku-hikes.htm.

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

and facebook.com/kaucalendar.

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, JULY 27

Coffee Talk, Fri, July 27, 9:30-11am, Kahuku Unit of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. NPS Law Enforcement Rangers talk story about Mitigating Disaster in National Parks. Ka`ū coffee, tea, and pastries available for purchase. Free. nps.gov/HAVO

SATURDAY, JULY 28

Second Annual Mālama Nā Keiki Festival, Sat, July 28, 9-1pm, Nā`ālehu Park. Free. Health screenings: hearing, vision, height and weight, BMI. Education and activities: Prenatal Panel, breastfeeding class w/lactation specialists, grow your own plant! Also, keiki activities, food, entertainment and prizes. Host: Hui Mālama Ola Nā `Oiwi. 969-9220, HMONO.org

Paths and Trails, Sat, July 28, 9:30-12:30pm, Kahuku Unit of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. Moderately-difficult, 2-mile, hike with some of the most spectacular overlooks in Kahuku. Discover the ways people, animals, and plants got to Kahuku and the paths they followed. Free. nps.gov/HAVO

Discovery Harbour Volunteer Fire Department Tribute for James Masters, Sat, July 28, 4-10pm, Discovery Harbour Community Hall. 929-9576, discoveryharbour.net

MONDAY, JULY 30

Register to Vote in the Primary Election at an Early Walk-In Voting site from Monday, July 30, to Thursday, August 9.

TUESDAY, JULY 31

Ka`ū Food Pantry, Tue, July 31, 11:30-1pm, St. Jude's Episcopal Church in Ocean View.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 1

Family Yoga Class, Wed, Aug 1, 9-10am, PARENTS, Inc., Nā`ālehu. 3-12 years old and caregivers. All levels welcome. Wear comfortable clothes, bring a mat, if can, as supplies are limited. Free. 333-3460, lindsey@hawaiiparents.org

THURSDAY, AUGUST 2

Hula Voices w/Kumu Manaiakalani Kalua, Thu, Aug 2, 5-6pm, Volcano Art Center's Ni`aulani Campus, Volcano Village. Talk story session moderated by Desiree Moana Cruz. Call to confirm. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

Ka`ū and Kona House and Senate Candidate Agricultural Forum, Thu, Aug 2, 6-8pm, Konawaena High School Cafeteria, Kealakekua. Forum subject area is to help meet the needs of farmers; participants encouraged to bring questions. Co-sponsored by Kona Coffee Farmer Association, konacoffeefarmers.org, and Kona Farmers Union, hfuuhi.org.

Ocean View Neighborhood Watch Meeting, Thu, Aug 2, 6-7pm, Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

ONGOING

5th Annual Volcano Winery Harvest Festival, tickets on sale from Aug 1 for event on Sun, Sept 9. Benefit for Volcano School of Arts and Sciences. Music, food, wine and raffle. $40/adult (21+). 967-7772, volcanowinery.com

Oliver!, a KDEN Production, through July 29; Fridays and Saturdays, 7:30pm, Sundays 2:30pm. Shows at UH-Hilo Performing Arts Center. Tickets: $20 general, $15 seniors 60+ and students, $12 keiki 12 and under. Tickets available at Kīlauea General Store, Kea`au Natural Foods, Basically Books, and The Most Irresistible Shop in Hilo. Info and reservations: 982-7344, kden73@aol.com

Exhibit, Birds of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park: The Hawai`i Nei Invitational Daily, through Aug 4, 9-5pm, Volcano Art Center's Ni`aulani Campus, Volcano Village. Free. Artists: John Dawson, Reyn Ojiri, Sarah Koh, Wendy Barske, Maria Macias, Cody Yamaguchi, Ann Guth, and John Mydoock. Art represents endemic bird species. volcanoartcenter.org

Temporary changes to Tūtū and Me traveling preschool's Nā`ālehu site location. The new location, until further notice, is Kauaha`ao Church in Wai`ōhinu. Meeting days and times remain the same: Mondays and Wednesdays, from 8:45 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. Currently on summer break, both Nā`ālehu and Pāhala site programs will resume August 7 and 8. Pāhala site program meets Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., at Pāhala Community Center.

     Tūtū and Me also 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.

     Orientation takes place August 1 and 2. To enroll in either program, fill out enrollment forms found at pidf.org/programs/tutu_and_me/enrollment_forms, or call Linda Bong at 464-9634. Questions: Clark at 929-8571 or eclark@pidfountation.org.

Harmony Educational Services, Home Based Educational Programs - Open Enrollment through Oct 15; harmonyed.com/hawaii. Partnered with four local public charter schools, Harmony offers benefits of homeschooling with resources available to public schools. Interested families can also contact Rayna Williams, rwilliams@harmonyed.com or 430-9798.

Volcano Forest Runs Registration Open, online at volcanorainforestruns.com. Fees, 5K - $35, 10K - $55, 1/2 Marathon - $95. Race Day Sat, Aug 18, Volcano Village. No race day registration for 1/2 Marathon. Race Director Sharron Faff, 967-8240.

5th Annual Ka`ū Coffee Trail Run Registration Open, online at webscorer.com/register?raceid=128145, Fees, before Aug 13: 5K, $30/person; 10K, $40/person; and 1/2 Marathon, $50/person. After Aug 13: 5K, $35/person; 10K, $45/person; and 1/2 Marathon, $55/person. Race Day Sat, Sept 22, 7 a.m.; begins and ends at Ka`ū Coffee Mill, kaucoffeemill.com. Event organizers: `O Ka`ū Kākou, okaukakou.org.

Disaster Recovery Center is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., weekends from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Kea`au High School Gym. Buses run to and from Kea`au Armory every 20 minutes and Pāhoa Community Center Shelter every hour; see full bus schedule on the Civil Defense Website at HawaiiCounty.gov/Active-Alerts. For a list of the information applicants need to bring to the DRC, or to register online, go to DisasterAssistance.gov. The Salvation Army continues to operate a distribution center at the Pāhoa Community Center on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. To donate, please coordinate with the Salvation Army at (808) 756-0306.

St. Jude's Episcopal Church Calls for More Volunteers for the Saturday community outreach. Especially needed are cooks for the soup served to those in need, and organizers for the hot showers. "Volunteering for St. Jude's Saturday Shower and Soup ministry is an opportunity to serve God in a powerful way," states St. Jude's April newsletter. Volunteer by contacting Dave Breskin at 319-8333.

Kona Vet Center visits to Ocean View Community Center are Suspended until further notice. Veterans may call 329-0574 for VA benefit information. ovcahi.org

Find Your Park, invites Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. Kama`aina and tourist alike are encouraged to experience authentic Hawaiian cultural programs, guided hikes, After Dark events, and more from Ka`ū to Volcano to Hilo. "While Kīlauea continues to shake the ground and blast ash from its ever-changing summit crater – causing the partial closure of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park on May 11 – park rangers continue to enlighten and engage visitors from other locations," says a release from HVNP staff.

     Rangers offer new and familiar programs – free of charge, with no entry fees – for visitors at the park's Kahuku Unit, Volcano Art Center's Ni`aulani Campus, and Mokupāpapa Discovery Center and Prince Kūhio Plaza in Hilo.

Kahuku Unit

     In addition to regularly scheduled Guided Hikes and the monthly Coffee Talk, Kahuku Unit has added daily Ranger Talks, and cultural demonstrations and activities on weekends.

     Visitor Contact Station hosts `Ike Hana No`eau: Experience the Skillful Work Cultural Demonstrations and Activities, from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday.

     Visitor Contact Station hosts Ranger Talks on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday at 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday at 10:30 a.m.

     Guided Hikes begin at 9:30 a.m. every Saturday and Sunday in June and July. Meet the ranger at the welcome tent.

     Coffee Talk, in the Visitor Contact Station is held the last Friday of the month, 9:30-11 a.m.

     Kahuku events are posted to the park website, nps.gov/havo/planyourvisit/kahuku-hikes.htm.

Volcano Art Center's Ni`aulani Campus

     Find Park Rangers in Volcano at the Volcano Art Center's Ni`aulani Campus at 19-4074 Old Volcano Rd., in Volcano Village. Rangers are there most days from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. to provide talks and answer questions about the current eruption.

     The return of After Dark …near the park at the Volcano Art Center's Ni`aulani Campus. Each event will have a different subject matter.

Mokupāpapa Discovery Center

     Find Park Rangers in downtown Hilo, Tuesday through Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Rangers provide daily eruption updates, and at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., give a talk about all five of Hawai`i Island's volcanoes -- including Kīlauea. Get NPS Passport Books stamped. Located at 76 Kamehameha Ave., Hilo.

Prince Kūhio Plaza

     Find Park Rangers alongside the park's non-profit partners, Hawai`i Pacific Parks Association, at their brand new mall store.

Grand Naniloa Hotel

     Find Park Rangers stationed at the Grand Naniloa Hotel in downtown Hilo, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., every Sunday and Monday, in the Willie K Crown Room -- as long as nothing else is scheduled in the space. The rangers will be doing daily talks at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. about the eruption. They will show the park film that is normally available to visitors to see at the Kilauea Visitor’s Center at the Summit, Born of Fire, Born in the Sea, every half-hour beginning at 9:30 a.m.

     Park rangers also greet incoming arrivals at the Hilo International Airport, welcome cruise ship passengers as they disembark at the Port of Hilo, and inform visitors at `Imiloa Astronomy Center most Sundays.

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 News Briefs Wednesday, July 25, 2018

The view from the top of Ladders at South Point. Photo from Dept. of Hawaiian Homelands

AFTER CLIFF JUMPING FROM THE TOP OF THE LADDER AT SOUTH POINT, A WOMAN IS UNABLE TO FEEL HER LEGS. Captain J. Souza of Hawai`i Fire Department reported that at 12:12 p.m. on Tuesday, July 24, emergency responders arrived at South Point Landing to find a woman in her 30s laying on a rock shelf, with no feeling in her legs. She was surrounded by bystanders, who had pulled her from the water.

     HFD personnel climbed down the rocks to assess and treat her, while waiting for a Fire Department Helicopter. The woman and a rescue swimmer were lifted into the helicopter via Billy Pugh net, to the awaiting ambulance. The woman was then taken to Kona Community Hospital via HFD aeromedical helicopter. No updates on her identity or condition have been issued.

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.

Turtles taken by the lava in Puna may have not
escaped in part due to their strong home territory
instincts, like those seen here at Punalu`u.
Photo by Julia Neal

WILL GREEN SEA TURTLES ESCAPE LAVA FLOWS? The U.S. Coast Guard Barbers Point Air Station provided space on a low-flying C-130 plane to a state Department of Land & Natural Resources crew today to look for endangered green sea turtles that could be trapped by lava flowing into the ocean. The crew also noted that the Pohoiki Boat Ramp remained, with lava nearby this afternoon.

     The flight follows social media and press reports on turtles dying and trapped on the coast near Kapoho Bay and Pohoiki Boat Ramp. "To the naked eye no turtles were visible," reported the DLNR statement. "Ocean conditions are such that seeing turtles is next to impossible."

     The report states that Ikaika Marzo, a permitted lava tour boat operator and cultural practitioner from the Puna area, said, "It would be very difficult to save turtles anywhere along the coastline at this point. The water is so turbid and murky that it would be hard to even spot them up-close from the shoreline. The time has passed." 

     According to DLNR, experts from NOAA Fisheries and DLNR say even if teams could have reached turtles depicted in social media postings, relocating these wild animals is fraught with challenges. "Those include difficulty in capturing turtles in the ocean even by trained experts, lack of safe access by land or sea, risk of harm to turtles during capture, and no guarantees that turtles who have very strong home territory instincts wouldn't swim back after being relocated."
     Today's overflight is the third mission in the past ten days initiated by DLNR to look for turtles in distress or in danger from the lava flow ocean entry in Puna. DLNR reported that "researchers believe many turtles -- those that had clear paths to the ocean -- swam away from the area. Various social media postings, some from early June, indicate turtles that were apparently trapped and/or killed during an active ocean lava entry or in landlocked pools."
     DLNR Chair Suzanne Case said, "We're charged with the mission of protecting Hawai`i's natural resources and we obviously share everyone's concerns and sadness over the loss of turtles and any other aquatic and terrestrial wildlife." She added, "The eruption is obviously powerful and dangerous to both humans and wildlife."

Pohoiki -- with its famous house, boat ramp, and jetty -- this afternoon at 2 p.m., with lava creeping along the coast
and reaching Isaac Hale Park nearby. Photo form DLNR and U.S. Coast Guard

     Anyone who sees turtles or other animals trapped by lava -- outside the restricted disaster zone -- is encouraged to report it immediately to NOAA's statewide turtle stranding hotline, 1-888-256-9840. Reports can also be made via the DLNR hotline at 643-DLNR.
     The DLNR Chair also stressed safety: "As much as we'd like to rescue and save each creature impacted by the East Rift Zone eruption, much of it is simply beyond all of our control. The restricted zones are necessary for public safety. I really encourage everyone to respect and stay out of areas that are off limits as established by the Hawai`i County Civil Defense Agency and the U.S. Coast Guard."
     The team on the overflight reported that as of 2 p.m. Wednesday, the Pohoiki Boat Ramp had not been covered by advancing lava. However, they said that visibility beyond the ramp into Isaac Hale Park was severely restricted by volcanic gasses and steam.

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.

Jack's Tours served the Hawai`i Island community with employment and transportation services for
visitors, locals and school travel groups. Jack's was founded more than 50 years ago. Photo from Jack's Tours

JACK'S TOURS IS SHUTTING DOWN: The company, founded by Jack Miyashiro, known for its half day and round the island Volcano trips, which often stopped at Punalu`u Black Sand Beach, Punalu`u Bakeshop and other Ka`ū and Volcano locales, sent out this letter:
     "We regret to announce that we will be closing down our business and operations. Our last day of providing services will be July 31, 2018. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause you. The downturn in tourism due to the volcanic activity on Hawai`i Island has affected our business significantly and, unfortunately, we are unable to continue operations due to the significant decrease in business levels with no foreseeable improvement in the near future. We are very grateful for your business partnership and want to express our thank you and appreciation for all your support over the years."

Jack's Tours operated a fleet, from cars, to vans, to motor coaches.
Photo from Jack's Tours

    Jack's Tour Company operated for more than 50 years on Hawai`i Island, serving hotels, cruise ships, school groups, and private parties. Its fleet included sedans, vans, four-wheel drive vehicles, and motor coaches. The company served a large Japanese and mainland following, and also took visitors to the top of Mauna Kea for stargazing.

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.

SEN. MAZIE HIRONO SPOKE OUT AGAINST PRES. TRUMP today on the U.S. Senate floor, to "denounce the Trump administration's attacks on the federal workforce and highlight the important role of federal workers in Hawai`i," says a statement from her office.

     Hirono remarked: "Over the past year and a half, Donald Trump and his administration have launched a concerted attack on federal workers and the unions that fight on their behalf. There appear to be no lengths to which Donald Trump and the anti-union, moneyed interests who support him will go to attack and try to eviscerate protections for working people.

Senator Hirono and members of the Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance. 

Photo from Hirono's office

      "Donald Trump and the Republican Party obviously do not recognize the service and commitment of our more than two million federal workers. But in Hawai`i, and indeed, across the nation, we see the impact of their hard work every day. These dedicated public servants have been working around the clock for months to support the Puna community. These workers deserve our respect, appreciation, and unwavering support for their service. They certainly don't deserve the contempt and animosity that Donald Trump and his administration have directed at them." Watch video of Hirono's remarks.

     Earlier in the day, says the statement, Hirono joined hundreds of union members outside the Federal Courthouse in Washington, D.C. at a rally to protest several executive orders that undermine federal workers' fundamental civil service protections.  Last month,  Hirono introduced the Public Service Freedom to Negotiate Act, legislation that would guarantee the right of public employees to organize, act concertedly, and bargain collectively in states that currently do not afford these basic protections. Last year,  Hirono led 14 Senate Democrats in unveiling their Five Fights for Federal Employees -- a proposal to protect current and retired government workers from ideologically motivated attacks from Republicans in Congress and the Trump administration.

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.

NEW and UPCOMING

TEMPORARY CHANGES TO TŪTŪ AND ME TRAVELING PRESCHOOL'S NĀ`ĀLEHU SITE LOCATION have been announced by Site Manager Hawai`i South Elizabeth (Betty) Clark, as "the county is making repairs to the community center floor." The new location, until further notice, will be Kauaha`ao Church in Wai`ōhinu. Clark assures that meeting days and times remain the same - Mondays and Wednesdays, from 8:45 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.
     Currently on summer break, both Nā`ālehu and Pāhala, meeting Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at Pāhala Community Center, site programs will resume August 6 and 7, with orientation taking place the week before, on August 1 and 2. To enroll keiki ages birth to 5 years and caregivers in either program, fill out enrollment forms found at pidf.org/programs/tutu_and_me/enrollment_forms. Address questions to Clark by calling 929-8571 or emailing eclark@pidfountation.org.

Miloli‘i Canoe Club hosts a Keiki Ocean Celebration Day after a successfulregatta competition. 
Photo from Miloli‘i Canoe Club Facebook

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.

MILOLI`I CANOE CLUB HOSTS KEIKI OCEAN CELEBRATION DAY with ocean games for keiki and adults to celebrate their first season of keiki paddlers and the "end of a successful regatta competition," states a flyer from the organization. The event takes place on Saturday, July 28, at 9 a.m., with a potluck to follow. "All are invited so bring the `ohana!" states the flyer. Send questions to miloliicc@gmail.com or call 313-0107.

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

and facebook.com/kaucalendar.

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.

THURSDAY, JULY 26

Ka`ū Community Children's Council, Thu, July 26, 12:30-1:30pm, Punalu`u Bake Shop. Monthly meeting provides local forum for all community members to come together as equal partners to discuss and positively affect multiple systems' issues for the benefit of all students, families, and communities. Chad Domingo, text 808-381-2584, domingoc1975@yahoo.com, ccco.k12.hi.us

Volcano Bay Clinic Mobile Health Unit Visit, Thu, July 26, 1-5pm, Cooper Center, Volcano Village. Must be Bay Clinic, Inc. patient. Medical services offered last Thursday of every month. Dental to be announced. Call 333-3600 to schedule appointment. See Cooper Center June newsletter for details. thecoopercenter.org

Volcano Friends Feeding Friends, Thu, July 26, 4-6pm, Cooper Center, Volcano Village. Free community dinner for all. Additional packaged goods to take home - for those in need. Donations and volunteers encouraged. 967-7800, thecoopercenter.org

Meet and Greet with state Senate candidate Brenda Ford happens Thursday, July 26, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., at the Nāʻālehu Elementary School Gymnasium. A statement from the former County Council member says that she will discuss her goals for the Senate District 3, which runs from Honuʻapo through Kona, and answer questions from the public. She listed some of the issues for which she has been contacted: SpinLaunch, which she opposes; her support for a new Kona Trauma & Teaching Hospital, dialysis unit in Kaʻū, and Physician’s Assistant Program for more medical access. She also supports a minimum wage of $15/hour, assistance with agriculture, and many other Kaʻū related issues. She said a vote for Ford will be “A Vote for the People.”

FRIDAY, JULY 27

Coffee Talk, Fri, July 27, 9:30-11am, Kahuku Unit of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. NPS Law Enforcement Rangers talk story about Mitigating Disaster in National Parks. Ka`ū coffee, tea, and pastries available for purchase. Free. nps.gov/HAVO

SATURDAY, JULY 28

Second Annual Mālama Nā Keiki Festival, Sat, July 28, 9-1pm, Nā`ālehu Park. Free. Health screenings: hearing, vision, height and weight, BMI. Education and activities: Prenatal Panel, breastfeeding class w/lactation specialists, grow your own plant! Also, keiki activities, food, entertainment and prizes. Host: Hui Mālama Ola Nā `Oiwi. 969-9220, HMONO.org

Paths and Trails, Sat, July 28, 9:30-12:30pm, Kahuku Unit of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. Moderately-difficult, 2-mile, hike with some of the most spectacular overlooks in Kahuku. Discover the ways people, animals, and plants got to Kahuku and the paths they followed. Free. nps.gov/HAVO

Discovery Harbour Volunteer Fire Department Tribute for James Masters, Sat, July 28, 4-10pm, Discovery Harbour Community Hall. 929-9576, discoveryharbour.net

MONDAY, JULY 30

Register to Vote in the Primary Election at an Early Walk-In Voting site from Monday, July 30, to Thursday, August 9.

TUESDAY, JULY 31

Ka`ū Food Pantry, Tue, July 31, 11:30-1pm, St. Jude's Episcopal Church in Ocean View.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 1

Family Yoga Class, Wed, Aug 1, 9-10am, PARENTS, Inc., Nā`ālehu. Wonderful way to embody connection. 3-12 years old and caregivers. All levels welcome. Wear comfortable clothes, bring a mat, if can, as supplies are limited. Free. 333-3460, lindsey@hawaiiparents.org

ONGOING

Oliver!, a KDEN Production, through July 29; Fridays and Saturdays, 7:30pm, Sundays 2:30pm. Shows at UH-Hilo Performing Arts Center. Tickets: $20 general, $15 seniors 60+ and students, $12 keiki 12 and under. Tickets available at Kīlauea General Store, Kea‘au Natural Foods, Basically Books, and The Most Irresistible Shop in Hilo. Info and reservations: 982-7344, kden73@aol.com

Exhibit, Birds of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park: The Hawai`i Nei Invitational Daily, through Aug 4, 9-5pm, Volcano Art Center’s Ni`aulani Campus, Volcano Village. Free. Artists: John Dawson, Reyn Ojiri, Sarah Koh, Wendy Barske, Maria Macias, Cody Yamaguchi, Ann Guth, and John Mydoock. Art represents endemic bird species. volcanoartcenter.org

Volcano Rain Forest Runs Registration Open through Friday, August 17, at 6 p.m. Half marathon $85, 10K $45, 5K $30. Registration increases August 1: half marathon to $95, 10K to $55, and 5K to $35. Race is run from Cooper Center on Wright Road in Volcano Village on Saturday, August 18.

5th annual Ka`ū Coffee Trail Run registration open. Race day Sat, Sept 22, 7 a.m.; begins and ends at Ka`ū Coffee Mill. Register online before Sun, Aug 11: 5K, $30/person; 10K, $40/person; and 1/2 Marathon, $45/person. From Aug 13: $35/person, $45/person, and $55/person. Race day registration ends Sat, Sept 22, at 6:30 a.m. Event organizers, `O Ka`ū Kākou; start location, Ka`ū Coffee Mill.

Disaster Recovery Center is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., weekends from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Kea`au High School Gym. Buses run to and from Kea`au Armory every 20 minutes and Pāhoa Community Center Shelter every hour; see full bus schedule on the Civil Defense Website at HawaiiCounty.gov/Active-Alerts. For a list of the information applicants need to bring to the DRC, or to register online, go to DisasterAssistance.gov. The Salvation Army continues to operate a distribution center at the Pāhoa Community Center on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. To donate, please coordinate with the Salvation Army at (808) 756-0306.

Kona Vet Center visits to Ocean View Community Center are Suspended until further notice. Veterans may call 329-0574 for VA benefit information. ovcahi.org

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 464-9634.

St. Jude's Episcopal Church Calls For More Volunteers for the Saturday community outreach. Especially needed are cooks for the soup served to those in need, and organizers for the hot showers. "Volunteering for St. Jude's Saturday Shower and Soup ministry is an opportunity to serve God in a powerful way," states St. Jude's April newsletter. Volunteer by contacting Dave Breskin at 319-8333.

Find Your Park, invites Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. Kama`aina and tourist alike are encouraged to experience authentic Hawaiian cultural programs, guided hikes, After Dark events, and more from Ka`ū to Volcano to Hilo. "While Kīlauea continues to shake the ground and blast ash from its ever-changing summit crater – causing the partial closure of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park on May 11 – park rangers continue to enlighten and engage visitors from other locations," says a release from HVNP staff.
     Rangers offer new and familiar programs – free of charge, with no entry fees – for visitors at the park's Kahuku Unit, Volcano Art Center's Ni`aulani Campus, and Mokupāpapa Discovery Center and Prince Kūhio Plaza in Hilo.

Kahuku Unit
     In addition to regularly scheduled Guided Hikes and the monthly Coffee Talk, Kahuku Unit has added daily Ranger Talks, and cultural demonstrations and activities on weekends.

     Visitor Contact Station hosts `Ike Hana No`eau: Experience the Skillful Work Cultural Demonstrations and Activities, from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday.
     Visitor Contact Station hosts Ranger Talks on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday at 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday at 10:30 a.m.
     Guided Hikes begin at 9:30 a.m. every Saturday and Sunday in June and July. Meet the ranger at the welcome tent.
     Coffee Talk, in the Visitor Contact Station is held the last Friday of the month, 9:30-11 a.m.
     Kahuku events are posted to the park website, nps.gov/havo/planyourvisit/kahuku-hikes.htm.
Volcano Art Center's Ni`aulani Campus

     Find Park Rangers in Volcano at the Volcano Art Center's Ni`aulani Campus at 19-4074 Old Volcano Rd., in Volcano Village. Rangers are there most days from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. to provide talks and answer questions about the current eruption.

     The return of After Dark …near the park at the Volcano Art Center's Ni`aulani Campus. Each event will have a different subject matter.
Mokupāpapa Discovery Center

     Find Park Rangers in downtown Hilo, Tuesday through Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Rangers provide daily eruption updates, and at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., give a talk about all five of Hawai`i Island's volcanoes – including Kīlauea. Get NPS Passport Books stamped. Located at 76 Kamehameha Ave., Hilo.
Prince Kūhio Plaza

     Find Park Rangers alongside the park's non-profit partners, Hawai`i Pacific Parks Association, at their brand new mall store.
Grand Naniloa Hotel

     Find Park Rangers stationed at the Grand Naniloa Hotel in downtown Hilo, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., every Sunday and Monday, in the Willie K Crown Room - as long as nothing else is scheduled in the space. The rangers will be doing daily talks at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. about the eruption. They will show the park film that is normally available to visitors to see at the Kilauea Visitor’s Center at the Summit, Born of Fire, Born in the Sea, every half-hour beginning at 9:30 a.m.
     Park rangers also greet incoming arrivals at the Hilo International Airport, welcome cruise ship passengers as they disembark at the Port of Hilo, and inform visitors at `Imiloa Astronomy Center most Sundays.

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 News Briefs Tuesday, July 24, 2018

See video of this morning's collapse event at Kīlauea's summit, showing crater walls falling with the 
pressure wave from the explosion passing through steam rising from the crater. USGS video

CARRYING FIREARMS IN PUBLIC will be allowed in Hawai`i, following the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals overturning a lower court ruling today. Hawai`i has long argued that the state has a right to prohibit carrying guns in public, while allowing guns for personal protection to be kept at home.

    The Ninth Circuit, however, ruled in a 2-1 decision today that carrying guns in public for protection is protected by the U.S. Constitution. The county and state may appeal.

     Hawai`i County Deputy Corporate Council Kaena Horowitz, who defended the county in the Ninth Circuit case, said today's ruling, "invalidates Hawai`i law that was designed to protect the safety and well being of the people of Hawai`i. Carrying firearms in public clearly poses a significant danger to the safety of our community and greatly increases the risk that police officers have to confront."

Hawai`i Attorney General Russell
Suzuki, who intends to work with
Hawai`i County on further action.
Photo from @Atghlgov

     Hawai`i Attorney General Russell Suzuki noted that Judge Richard Clifton "filed a well-reasoned dissent supporting the constitutionality of this law." Clifton wrote that for a long time, states have been allowed to regulate and limit the public carry of firearms.

     The Hawai`i AG said, "We intend to consult with Hawai‘i County and work with them on further action. We are disappointed in the decision that would undermine Hawai`i's strong gun control law and our commitment to protect the public."

     George Young, a Vietnam Veteran living in Hilo, filed the appeal when he was twice denied a permit to carry a firearm. Hawai`i is one of 15 states that require a permit to carry a handgun, but none have been given except to those working in security during the last 20 years, said Young's attorney.

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.

Pohoiki today, with lava on its way toward Isaac Hale park and the boat ramp.
Photo from Bruce Omori of Extreme Exposures, courtesy of Paradise Helicopters

LAVA BORE DOWN ON POHOIKI TODAY, heading toward Isaac Hale Park and the diving, surfing, fishing, boating, and family gathering places along the shore. The loss of the treasured and favorite community oceanside recreational place seemed more likely with massive movement of lava viewed from helicopter overflights.
     Pohoiki, one of the few ocean entry places left along the lower Puna coast, has long attracted people from all over the island and far away. Pohoiki - a place of imersion into Hawaiian ocean and seaside traditions, the ramp a prime launching facility for local fishing and lava tour boats. Pohoiki - almost always full of children playing in the water while music plays in the park.

     Now deserted, Pohoiki felt the approach of lava today with the white smoke of laze rolling in like a blanket. Area residents sent out messages of "Pohoiki Strong," just hoping the lava would stop.

Palm trees at Pohoiki Boat Ramp and Isaac Hale Park,
obscured by laze, may soon be covered in lava.
Photo from houseofhowe.exposure.co/pohoiki-strong 

     Ikaika Marzo shared photos and a post on Facebook from Bruce Omori, who described Pohoiki as "beloved" and "the last coastal gem in Puna." He said the lava took Shacks and sat on the edge of taking another surf spot called Dead Trees. Omori said that, though the lava looked still as they passed over in a helicopter, "there appears to be a significant build up of `a`ā behind it... which would not bode well in the long term.

     "Please continue to pray for the residents of Puna, as thousands of individuals have had their lives altered forever."

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 VISIBLE PRESSURE WAVE FROM THE COLLAPSE EVENT at Kīlauea summit this morning, July 24, at 6:41 a.m., released energy equivalent to a magnitude-5.3 earthquake. This quake is similar to that released by previous collapse events. In the USGS video, HVO's live-stream camera shows shaking, then the pressure wave from the collapse "passes through the steam plume in the crater, and light is reflected back to the camera, highlighting the passage of the expanding sound energy through the air," says the caption. Just after that, a rockfall begins on the South Sulphur Banks, a distant light-colored scarp on the left.

Halemau`ma`u at sunset this evening. USGS photo

     Fissure 8 continues to erupt lava into the channel leading northeastward from the vent, curving south to enter the ocean, primarily near Ahalanui. Crews in the field today do not report an increase in lava output from Fissure 8 following this morning's summit collapse event. In the last day, "ooze outs" along the edge of the lava flow in the Ahalanui area have caused the flow to expand westward.

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.

"OUR JUDICIAL SYSTEM IS IN GRAVE DANGER," said Sen. Mazie Hirono in a statement issued today. She called the judicial system "the backbone of our democracy."

Sen. Mazie Hirono
Photo from @maziehirono

     Her message states, "Donald Trump and Senate Republicans are stacking our courts with inexperienced and unqualified judges who are more focused on pushing a right-wing extremist agenda than upholding the rule of law. Even worse, the GOP is determined to do whatever it takes to make sure these radical nominees make it to the bench.
     "As a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, I know all too well what's at stake in the battle to protect our courts: health care, immigration, equality for women and LGBTQ rights; everything we hold dear. We cannot allow the Senate to confirm extremist judges who will undermine the integrity of our judicial system." She asks those with her to "stand with me in the fight to protect our courts by adding their names to tell the Senate: Stop confirming Trump's unqualified judicial nominees."

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.

WEST KA`Ū'S STATE SENATOR, JOSH GREEN, LEADS in the polls in the race for Lt. Governor.
The primary election is Saturday, Aug. 11.
     Green - who lived at the A-Frame house at Punalu`u Black Sand Beach when working as an emergency room doctor at Ka`ū Hospital - first ran for the state House of Representatives in 2004. He served from 2005 to 2009, when he became a state Senator. He represents District Three from Honu`apo through Nā`ālehu, South Point, Ocean View, and Kona, through the Kohala Coast. His decision to run for Lt. Governor meant that he could not run for the Senate seat again in 2019.

Sen. Josh Green, ahead in the
polls in his bid for Lt. Gov.

     Green, a Democrat, is 48 years old; born in Kingston, New York, and grew up in Pittsburgh, PA. He graduated from Swarthmore, a college originally founded by Quakers, and earned his medical degree from Pennsylvania State University. He practices emergency medicine at Kohala Hospital and volunteers in medical causes such as treatment of homeless people.

     Green led the successful campaign to raise the age for obtaining tobacco products and electronic cigarettes to 21 years of age, and Hawai`i became the first state to do so. He succeeded in passing Luke’s law, which mandates health insurance companies cover autism. He advocates for medical prescriptions, for housing for the homeless, and led the cause to provide every child in Hawai`i with healthcare.

     Green said that the Lt. Governor's position would give him a fighting chance to protect Medicare and Social Security for kupuna, and to block Pres. Donald Trump's efforts to strip millions of their healthcare and end protections for pre-existing conditions. Green describes health care as 'a basic human right." He advocates for a $15 minimum wage and equal pay for women. He has won numerous awards as legislator of the year from health care organizations.

     Green is married to Jaime Ushiroda, from Kaneohe. They are raising daughter Maia and son Sam.

     Green is running in a crowded field. Democrat candidates are: Kaua`i Mayor Bernard Carvalho, state Sen. Will Espero, former state Board of Education member Kim Coco Iwamoto, and state Sen. Jill Tokuda. Republican candidates are businesswoman Marissa Kerns, businessman Steve Lipscomb, and Research Assistant Jeremy Low. Green Party candidate is retired city parks director Renee Ing. Two Nonpartisan candidates are bank manager Ernest Magaoay and auto salesman Paul Robotti.

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.

NEW and UPCOMING

Chief Ranger John Broward speaks at 
Coffee Talk at Kuhuku Unit
Friday, July 27. Photo from NPS

NATIONAL PARK SERVICE LAW ENFORCEMENT RANGERS SPEAK AT KAHUKU COFFEE TALK on Friday, July 27, from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m., at the Kahuku Unit Visitor Center, about Mitigating Disasters in National Parks.

     National Park Service Law Enforcement Rangers are also trained as Emergency Medical Technicians and Search & Rescue Technicians. Chief Ranger John Broward, currently in charge of law enforcement and emergency services, has been a Law Enforcement Ranger with the National Park Service for 26 years. He is joined by Kahuku Law Enforcement Ranger Ryan Deacy, who has been with the National Park Service as a Law Enforcement Ranger for three and a half years. All are welcome to join the informal talk story as Deacy and Broward share about some of their "hair-raising" experiences within the National Park Service in their efforts to keep visitors safe.
     The event is free to attend; Kahuku Unit of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park does not charge entrance fees. Ka`ū coffee, tea and pastries are available for purchase. Find the entrance to the Kahuku Unit of the park located south of the 70.5 mile marker, mauka (mountain side) of Highway 11. For more about this and other Kahuku Unit programs, visit nps.gov/havo/planyourvisit/kahuku-hikes.htm.

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

and facebook.com/kaucalendar.

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.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 25

Kōkua Kupuna Project, Wed, July 25, 9-11am, 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

Hawai‘i County Council Meetings, beginning at 9 a.m., Wed, July 25 (Council), Kona. Ka‘ū residents can participate via videoconferencing at Nā‘ālehu State Office Building. Agendas at hawaiicounty.gov

Summer Fun Event, Wed, July 25, 9:30-10:30am, PARENTS, Inc., Nā‘ālehu. Parents, caregivers and keiki create fun summer art; 0-7 years old. Wear clothes that can get messy. Art supplies, healthy snacks and drinks provided. Free. 333-3460, lindsey@hawaiiparents.org

Vision Board Event, Wed, July 25, 4-6pm, PARENTS, Inc., Nā‘ālehu. 8-18 years old and parents/caregivers. Set intentions, goals and give voice to wishes and dreams by creating a vision board. Art supplies, healthy snacks and drinks provided. Free. 333-3460, lindsey@hawaiiparents.org

THURSDAY, JULY 26

Ka‘ū Community Children's Council, Thu, July 26, 12:30-1:30pm, Punalu‘u Bake Shop. Monthly meeting provides local forum for all community members to come together as equal partners to discuss and positively affect multiple systems' issues for the benefit of all students, families, and communities. Chad Domingo, text 808-381-2584, domingoc1975@yahoo.com, ccco.k12.hi.us

Volcano Bay Clinic Mobile Health Unit Visit, Thu, July 26, 1-5pm, Cooper Center, Volcano Village. Must be Bay Clinic, Inc. patient. Medical services offered last Thursday of every month. Dental to be announced. Call 333-3600 to schedule appointment. See Cooper Center June newsletter for details. thecoopercenter.org

Volcano Friends Feeding Friends, Thu, July 26, 4-6pm, Cooper Center, Volcano Village. Free community dinner for all. Additional packaged goods to take home - for those in need. Donations and volunteers encouraged. 967-7800, thecoopercenter.org

FRIDAY, JULY 27

Coffee Talk, Fri, July 27, 9:30-11am, Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. NPS Law Enforcement Rangers talk story about Mitigating Disaster in National Parks. Ka’ū coffee, tea, and pastries available for purchase. Free. nps.gov/HAVO

SATURDAY, JULY 28

Second Annual Mālama Nā Keiki Festival, Sat, July 28, 9-1pm, Nā‘ālehu Park. Free. Health screenings: hearing, vision, height and weight, BMI. Education and activities: Prenatal Panel, breastfeeding class w/lactation specialists, grow your own plant! Also, keiki activities, food, entertainment and prizes. Host: Hui Mālama Ola Nā ‘Oiwi. 969-9220, HMONO.org

Paths and Trails, Sat, July 28, 9:30-12:30pm, Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Moderately-difficult, 2-mile, hike with some of the most spectacular overlooks in Kahuku. Discover the ways people, animals, and plants got to Kahuku and the paths they followed. Free. nps.gov/HAVO

Discovery Harbour Volunteer Fire Department Tribute for James Masters, Sat, July 28, 4-10pm, Discovery Harbour Community Hall. 929-9576, discoveryharbour.net

MONDAY, JULY 30

Register to Vote in the Primary Election at an Early Walk-In Voting site from Monday, July 30, to Thursday, August 9.

TUESDAY, JULY 31

Ka‘ū Food Pantry, Tue, July 31, 11:30-1pm, St. Jude's Episcopal Church in Ocean View.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 1

Family Yoga Class, Wed, Aug 1, 9-10am, PARENTS, Inc., Nā‘ālehu. Wonderful way to embody connection. 3-12 years old and caregivers. All levels welcome. Wear comfortable clothes, bring a mat, if can, as supplies are limited. Free. 333-3460, lindsey@hawaiiparents.org

ONGOING

Oliver!, a KDEN Production, through July 29; Fridays and Saturdays, 7:30pm, Sundays 2:30pm. Shows at UH-Hilo Performing Arts Center. Tickets: $20 general, $15 seniors 60+ and students, $12 keiki 12 and under. Tickets available at Kīlauea General Store, Kea‘au Natural Foods, Basically Books, and The Most Irresistible Shop in Hilo. Info and reservations: 982-7344, kden73@aol.com

Exhibit, Birds of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park: The Hawai‘i Nei Invitational Daily, through Aug 4, 9-5pm, Volcano Art Center’s Ni‘aulani Campus, Volcano Village. Free. Artists: John Dawson, Reyn Ojiri, Sarah Koh, Wendy Barske, Maria Macias, Cody Yamaguchi, Ann Guth, and John Mydoock. Art represents endemic bird species. volcanoartcenter.org

Volcano Rain Forest Runs Registration Open through Friday, August 17, at 6 p.m. Half marathon $85, 10K $45, 5K $30. Registration increases August 1: half marathon to $95, 10K to $55, and 5K to $35. Race is run from Cooper Center on Wright Road in Volcano Village on Saturday, August 18.

5th annual Ka‘ū Coffee Trail Run registration open. Race day Sat, Sept 22, 7 a.m.; begins and ends at Ka‘ū Coffee Mill. Register online before Sun, Aug 11: 5K, $30/person; 10K, $40/person; and 1/2 Marathon, $45/person. From Aug 13: $35/person, $45/person, and $55/person. Race day registration ends Sat, Sept 22, at 6:30 a.m. Event organizers, ‘O Ka‘ū Kākou; start location, Ka‘ū Coffee Mill.

Disaster Recovery Center is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., weekends from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Keaʻau High School Gym. Buses run to and from Keaʻau Armory every 20 minutes and Pāhoa Community Center Shelter every hour; see full bus schedule on the Civil Defense Website at HawaiiCounty.gov/Active-Alerts. For a list of the information applicants need to bring to the DRC, or to register online, go to DisasterAssistance.gov. The Salvation Army continues to operate a distribution center at the Pāhoa Community Center on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. To donate, please coordinate with the Salvation Army at (808) 756-0306.

Kona Vet Center visits to Ocean View Community Center are Suspended until further notice. Veterans may call 329-0574 for VA benefit information. ovcahi.org

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 464-9634.

St. Jude's Episcopal Church Calls For More Volunteers for the Saturday community outreach. Especially needed are cooks for the soup served to those in need, and organizers for the hot showers. "Volunteering for St. Jude's Saturday Shower and Soup ministry is an opportunity to serve God in a powerful way," states St. Jude's April newsletter. Volunteer by contacting Dave Breskin at 319-8333.

Find Your Park, invites Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. Kama`aina and tourist alike are encouraged to experience authentic Hawaiian cultural programs, guided hikes, After Dark events, and more from Ka`ū to Volcano to Hilo. While Kīlauea continues to shake the ground and blast ash from its ever-changing summit crater – causing the partial closure of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park on May 11 – park rangers continue to enlighten and engage visitors from other locations," says HVNP.
     Rangers offer new and familiar programs – free of charge, with no entry fees – for visitors at the park’s Kahuku Unit, Volcano Art Center’s Ni`aulani Campus, and Mokupāpapa Discovery Center and Prince Kūhio Plaza and Grand Naniloa Hotel in Hilo.

Kahuku Unit
     Paths & Trails Guided Hike: Explore Kahuku’s newest trail, Pali o Ka`eo. Walk along a two-mile, moderately difficult trail that offers spectacular views of Kahuku. Discover the paths people, animals, and plants followed to arrive in this special section of Ka`ū. The first guided hike of Pali o Ka`eo is offered July 28, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

     Visitor Contact Station hosts `Ike Hana No`eau: Experience the Skillful Work Cultural Demonstrations and Activities, from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday. This coming Sat, July 28, park rangers and staff from Hawai`i Pacific Parks Association will share their knowledge and passion for Lei Making in the tightly woven lei haku style.

     Visitor Contact Station hosts Ranger Talks on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday at 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday at 10:30 a.m.
     Coffee Talk, in the Visitor Contact Station is held the last Friday of the month, 9:30-11 a.m. The next Coffee Talk is Fri., July 27. Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park Chief Ranger John Broward will talk about "Mitigating Disaster in National Parks," from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.
     Kahuku events are posted to the park website, nps.gov/havo/planyourvisit/kahuku-hikes.htm.
Volcano Art Center’s Ni`aulani Campus

     Find Park Rangers in Volcano at the Volcano Art Center's Ni‘aulani Campus at 19-4074 Old Volcano Rd., in Volcano Village. Rangers are there most days from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. to provide talks and answer questions about the current eruption.

     The return of After Dark …near the park at the Volcano Art Center's Ni`aulani Campus. Each event will have a different subject matter.
Mokupāpapa Discovery Center

     Find Park Rangers in downtown Hilo, Tuesday through Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Rangers provide daily eruption updates, and at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., give a talk about all five of Hawai`i Island's volcanoes – including Kīlauea. Get NPS Passport Books stamped. Located at 76 Kamehameha Ave., Hilo.
Prince Kūhio Plaza
     Find Park Rangers alongside the park's non-profit partners, Hawai`i Pacific Parks Association, at their brand new mall store.

Grand Naniloa Hotel

     Find Park Rangers stationed at the Grand Naniloa Hotel in downtown Hilo, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., every Sunday and Monday, in the Willie K Crown Room - as long as nothing else is scheduled in the space. The rangers will be doing daily talks at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. about the eruption. They will show the park film that is normally available to visitors to see at the Kilauea Visitor's Center at the Summit, Born of Fire, Born in the Sea, every half-hour beginning at 9:30 a.m.
     Park rangers also greet incoming arrivals at the Hilo International Airport, welcome cruise ship passengers as they disembark at the Port of Hilo, and inform visitors at `Imiloa Astronomy Center most Sundays.

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.