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Thursday, September 13, 2018

Kaʻū News Briefs Thursday, September 13, 2018

Crew members of Hikianalia, Hōkūleʻa's sister canoe, bundled up - mostly - as they cross the Pacific, nearing 
San Francisco. Gov. David Ige is set to meet up with the vessel after attending the Global Climate Action Summit.
See story below. Photo from Polynesian Voyaging Society/Hye Jung Kim
TROPICAL DEPRESSION OLIVIA, almost 500 miles away from the islands this evening, left a tail of rain, swelling streams in Kaʻū and some thunderstorms in Kona. On Oʻahu, some 10,000 residents received a warning they might have to evacuate their homes should Nuʻuanu Reservoir dam overflow. This evening, public officials called off the emergency as pumps continue to reduce the water level in the reservoir.
After the tail of Olivia dragged rain across Kaʻū today, Kaʻū Coffee trees
 stand strong below the misty mountains. Photo by Julia Neal
     On Maui, some residents returned to flooded valleys where some taro farms, homes and cars washed away. Gov. David Ige received disaster declaration approval from the federal government before Hurricane Olivia arrived as a Tropical Storm, crossing Maui and Lanaʻi yesterday.

     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.

GOV. DAVID IGE AND LEADERS FROM AROUND THE WORLD ARE ATTENDING THE GLOBAL CLIMATE ACTION SUMMIT this week in San Francisco. Ige will participate in climate action panels, workshops, tours, exhibits, and other special events. One of the hot topics is the reduction of fossil fuel emissions worldwide, according to statement from the governor's office.
     Participants will strategize on Health Energy Systemes, Inclusive Economic Growth, Sustainable Communities, Land and Ocean Stewardship and Transformative Climate Investments.
     Also attending are former Vice President Al Gore, House Democratic Leader Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi, the Executive Director of the United Nations Environment program Erik Solheim, Vice-Chair of Conservation International Harrison Ford, Primatologist Jane Goodall, and Former U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry.
     While in San Francisco, Ige will also take part in Sunday's arrival ceremony for Hikianalia, the sister canoe to the Hōkūleʻa.
     The governor is traveling with one staff member, the release says. Lt. Gov. Doug Chin will serve as acting governor until Ige returns to Hawaiʻi on Sunday, Sept. 16, reports Ige's office.

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.

WITHIN 60 DAYS OF THE GENERAL ELECTION, CANDIDATES HAVE TO BE CAREFUL TO REPORT ADS FOR THEIR CAMPAIGNS within 24 hours after buying them. The rule, only recently enforced, applies to all ads purchased after a candidate spends more than $2,000 in the calendar year.
     For the August Primary Election, dozens of candidates, including Kaʻū contenders Rep. Richard Onishi, Jeanné Kapela, and Brenda Ford, were penalized. Ford was strapped with $250, Kapela with $166.67, and Onishi with $583.33. Eleven other Hawaiʻi candidates on the ballot in Hawaiʻi County were charged fines, with Sen. Lorraine Inouye levied a $3,333.33 penalty. In total, more than 80 candidates statewide were fined for the Primary.
     Executive Director of the state Campaign Spending Commission, Kristin Izumi-Nitao, told West Hawaiʻi Today that the commission made every effort to educate candidates about the rule, with some 100 first-time candidates running in the Primary Election.
     The rule applies to newspaper, television, and radio ads, mailers, and internet ads, including boosted Facebook posts. They all must be reported to the commission within 24 hours in the 30 days before a Primary and the 60 days before a General Election. Each ad can acquire a $500 fine if not filed for within 24 hours of placing the ad, and $250 if filed late, no matter how small the cost of the purchase - sometimes only a few dollars for a boosted Facebook post.
Rep. Richard Creagan's expenditures on a graph, as an example. Reporting of
campaign funds is crucial for transparency in the election process.
Graph from data.hawaii.gov 
     The commission is accepting settlements from candidates, reducing the fine by two thirds for first time offenders, and half for second time offenders, according to the West Hawaiʻi Today story.
     Another rule, with enforcement beginning on Aug. 20, requires that all candidate committees and non-candidate committees, including Super PACs and ballot issue committees, place advertisement disclaimers on all advertising, including postcards, brochures, signs and banners. Failure will result in an administrative fine.
     A statement from the Campaign Spending Commission explains: "By law, any political advertisement that is broadcast, televised, circulated, published, distributed, or otherwise communicated, including by electronic means, shall: (1) Contain the name and address of the candidate, candidate committee, noncandidate committee, or other person paying for the advertisement; (2) Contain a notice in a prominent location stating either that the advertisement has not been approved by the candidate or has the approval and authority of the candidate (unless the advertisement was paid for by a candidate, candidate committee, or ballot issue committee); and (3) Not contain false information about the time, date, place, or means of voting."

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Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, on the floor of
the House today, condemning
the Trump Administration for their
actions regarding Syria. Photo
from Gabbard's YouTube
 
U.S. REP. TULSI GABBARD CONDEMNED THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION today, speaking on the House floor, calling on Congress to condemn the administration's protection of al-Qaeda in Idlib, Syria.
     Gabbard said: "Two days ago, President Trump and Vice President Pence delivered solemn speeches about the attacks on 9/11, talking about how much they care about the victims of al-Qaeda's attack on our country. But they are now standing up to protect the 20,000 to 40,000 al-Qaeda and other jihadist forces in Syria, and threatening Russia, Syria, and Iran with military force if they dare attack these terrorists.
     "This is a betrayal of the American people, especially the victims of al-Qaeda's attack on 9/11 and their families, first responders, and my brothers and sisters in uniform who have been killed or wounded in action and their families. For the President, who is Commander in Chief, to act as the protective big brother of al-Qaeda and other jihadists must be condemned by every Member of Congress."
Map from NPR
     Earlier this year, Rep. Tulsi Gabbard questioned Secretary of Defense James Mattis on President Trump's lack of authority to attack Syria without Congressional authorization. To date, Syria does not pose a direct threat to the United States, and Congress has not authorized the use of force or declared war against the Syrian Government, contends the statement from Gabbard.

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SEED FEST ON SATURDAY, SEPT. 22, will promote conversations on the hows and whys of growing seeds specifically adapted for Hawaiʻi. Check out variety trials in progress, learn how to conduct successful trials, talk story with local seed growers, and meet others in the community interested in improving local food security, says an announcement from organizers.
      The West Hawaiʻi location will be in Honalō at Kawanui Farm from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. -  only eight tickets left. The East Hawaiʻi location is in Pāhoa at Milk and Honey Farm, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Attendees of last year's Seed Fest. Photo from Seed Fest
     Event tickets are $8 each. Register online at kohalacenter.eventbrite.com or by calling The Kohala Center at 808-887-6411. Site addresses and directions will be provided upon completion of registration.
     Local seeds will be available for fall planting. The Hawaiʻi Seed Growers Network produces a wide variety of seeds naturally adapted for Hawaiʻi's diverse growing conditions. Order seeds online at hawaiiseedgrowersnetwork.com. Seeds cannot be shipped outside of Hawaiʻi.

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 WILL AND ESTATE SEMINAR is being offered as a special community event at Nāʻālehu Assembly of God on Saturday, Oct. 27, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Chuck Knocks is the Vice President of Advancement/Planned giving at Church Extension Plan and has more than two-decades of experience helping Christians become effective stewards of the resources that God has given them.
     This seminar will help attendees understand the importance of preparing for the future, says the announcement. The goal is to help individuals take a closer look at their own estate and the options available to them. "Learn biblical principles of stewardship and how to apply them to their live and provide for their family in the future. Don't leave your Legacy to Chance!"
     A new recurring event is Filipino Sunday, held at 6:30 p.m. on Sundays. Call Minda Brown 808-640-4742 for more. Special Speakers in November on Sundays at 9:45 a.m. include Police Chaplain Renee Godoy on the 4th, Pastor Damien Shrinski from Kurtistown on the 11th, and Pastor Ricky Eilerman from Nāʻālehu on the 18th. For more information call 808-929-7278.

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.

DRAGONFRUIT AND AVACADO GROWERS can provide information on their pesticide and biopesticide needs by taking a survey for Hawaiʻi’s IR-4 Program, run by the University of Hawaiʻi’s College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources.  The response, says a release from CTAHR, will help ensure that needs of Hawaiʻi growers are met by directing resources and funds in through prioritizing and supporting the industry.
     The surveys are anonymous. If a grower grows both fruits, please fill out both surveys. Avocado growers, https://bit.ly/2CNp9e7. Dragonfruit growers, https://bit.ly/2NA4hv3. The surveys close Wednesday, Sept. 26.

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.

Print edition of The Kaʻū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes 
throughout Kaʻū, from Miloliʻi through Volcano, and free on 
stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com
KAʻŪ TROJANS FALL SPORTS SCHEDULE
Football:
   Sat., Sept. 15, 1pm, @ Kohala
   Sat., Sept. 22, 3:30pm, host Lanai @ Keaʻau
   Sat., Sept. 29, 11am, host Pāhoa
   Sat, Oct 6, 12pm, host Kohala
   Sat, Oct 13, BIIF Semi-Finals at Kamehameha
Girls Volleyball:
   Fri., Sept. 14, @ Kamehameha
   Mon., Sept. 17, 6pm, host Lapahoehoe
   Wed., Sept. 19, 6pm, host Kohala
   Thu., Sept. 20, 6pm, @ Honokaʻa
   Tue., Sept. 25, 6pm, @ HPA
   Fri., Sept. 28, 6pm, host Kona
   Mon., Oct. 1, 6pm, host HAAS
   Tues, Oct 2, 6pm, @ Kealakehe
   Fri, Oct 5, 6pm, host Keaʻau
   Wed, Oct 10, 6pm, @ Parker
   Fri, Oct 12, 6pm, host St. Joseph
Cross Country:
   Sat., Sept. 15, 10am, Keaʻau
   Sat., Sept. 22, 9am, @ HPA
   Fri., Sept. 28, 6pm, host Kona
   Mon., Oct. 1, 6pm, host HAAS
   Sat, Oct 6, 2pm, @ Kealakehe
   Sat, Oct 13, BYE

NEW and UPCOMING
ALLISON LEIALOHA MILHAM IS SEPTEMBER ARTIST-IN-RESIDENCE at Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, a program held in collaboration with The National Parks Arts Foundation. The songwriter and book artist is originally from California, but is of Hawaiian descent and has family ties to the island. She performs Friday, Sept. 21, at 10 a.m., at the Park's Kahuku Unit.
September Artist in Residence at Hawai‘i Volcanoes
National Park, Allison Leialoha Milham. NPS photo
     Milham is a professional musician, who also has an advanced degree in book arts from The University of Alabama. "She has combined these two areas in an unusual project combining research, printing, bookbinding, and recordings of the compositions of Hawai‘i’s beloved last Queen," states the release from Hawai‘i Volcanoes. Milham's record and letterpress printed project, Uluhaimalama: Legacies of Lili‘uokalani, is a selection of some of the 200 compositions that Lili‘uokalani and others composed while under house arrest and smuggled out.
     For her public event, Milham plans on playing some of her own music as well as the Queen's, accompanied by the ‘ukulele and her keyboard. This event is free and open to the public. For more, call 985-6000.
     While at the park, Milham says she will focus mostly on songwriting, states the release. "My goal will be to complete three to four new songs, which will eventually be released as a seven song record with accompanying hand printed and bound artwork," Milham says. "Though my focus will be on the songwriting, I think I'll also be inspired to do some sketching and mockups of the design while immersed in the beauty of the park and my experience being there."
     Milham's work is held in multiple public collections including Yale University Arts Library and The Library of Congress, and is represented by Vamp & Tramp Booksellers and Brooklyn in New York City.
     The Artist In Residence program is supported by the National Endowment for the Arts, Friends of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, and other generous benefactors. The National Park Arts Foundation is a 501c3 non-profit dedicated to the promotion of the national parks through creating dynamic opportunities for artwork based in the natural and historic heritage of America. All National Park Arts Foundation programs are made possible through the philanthropic support of donors. Visit nationalparksartsfoundation.org for details.

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, SEPT. 14
Free Community Dance, Fri., Sept. 14, 7-10pmCooper CenterVolcano Village. Minors allowed with supervision only. Alcohol-free event. Variety of music. Coffee, tea, water, and snack provided. Free admission; donations appreciated. 967-7800, thecoopercenter.org

SATURDAY, SEPT. 15
Hawaiʻi Wildlife Fund "Get the Drift and Bag It" International Coastal Cleanup, Sat., Sept. 15, contact in advance for meet up time at Waiʻōhinu Park. 4WD needed, some space available but limited. RSVP. Free; donations appreciated. kahakai.cleanups@gmail.com, wildhawaii.org

Palm Trail, Sat., Sept. 15, 9:30-12:30pm, Kahuku Unit of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Moderately difficult, 2.6-mile loop traverses scenic pastures along an ancient cinder cone, with some of the best panoramic views Kahuku has to offer. nps.gov/HAVO

John D. Dawson Studio Sale, Sat.-Sun., Sept. 15-16, 10-3pmVolcano Art Center's Niʻaulani Campus, Volcano Village. Sale includes original acrylic and watercolor paintings, rough sketches, and pen and ink drawings from decades of work as a well-known professional illustrator. Special preview to VAC members Fri., Sept. 14, 4-6pm. Contact Emily C. Weiss, 967-8222, or visit volcanoartcenter.org.

Ocean View C.E.R.T. Meeting, Sat., Sept. 15, 10-1pmOcean View Community Center. Community Emergency Response Team Monthly meeting/training. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Hula Kahiko - Paul Neves w/ Hula Hālau Kou Lima Nani E, Sat., Sept. 15, 10:30-11:30am, hula platform near Volcano Art Center Niʻaulani Campus, Volcano Village. Hula performance. Free. Desiree, 987-7288, volcanohula@gmail.com, volcanoartcenter.org

Nā Mea Hula w/ Loke Kamanu and ʻOhana, Sat., Sept. 15, 11-1pm, Volcano Art Center Niʻaulani Campus, Volcano Village. Hands-on cultural demonstration. Free. Desiree, 987-7288, volcanohula@gmail.com, volcanoartcenter.org

Potluck and Dance, Sat., Sept. 15, 5:30pm, Discovery Harbour Community Hall. Live music by Shootz Band. BYOBeverage. $5/ticket. Register at office by Sept. 12. Discovery Harbour Community Association, 929-9576

Bunco and Potluck, Sat., Sept. 15, 6pm, 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

SUNDAY, SEPT. 16
Kaʻū ʻOhana Day: Picnic In The Park, Sun., Sept. 16, 12-3pm, Kahuku Unit of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park; entrance near 70.5 mile marker on Hwy 11). Family-friendly event. Shave ice, food vendors, children's activities, hula, and music. nps.gov/HAVO

MONDAY, SEPT. 17
Discovery Harbour Neighborhood Watch Meeting, Mon., Sept. 17, 5-6:30pm, Discovery Harbour Community Hall. 929-9576, discoveryharbour.net

TUESDAY, SEPT. 18
Hawaiʻi County Council Meetings, Tue./Wed., Sept. 18 (Committees)/19 (Council), Kona. Kaʻū residents can participate via videoconferencing at Nāʻālehu State Office Building. Agendas at hawaiicounty.gov

Wonderful World of Wine and Watercolor, Tue., Sept. 18, 4-7pmVolcano Art Center's Niʻaulani Campus, Volcano Village. Artist Nancy DeLucrezia shows how to transfer a photo onto watercolor paper and introduces basic techniques in watercolor painting. Sampling of several wines from wine store "Grapes" in Hilo. $30/VAC member, $35/non-members, plus $17 supply fee. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 19
Ocean View Community Association Board Meeting, Wed., Sept. 19, 12:30pmOcean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Arts and Crafts Activity: Friendship Bracelets, Wed., Sept. 19, 3-4pm, Kahuku Park, Hawaiian Ocean View Estates. For all ages. Register Sept. 10-14. 929-9113, hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation

Arts and Crafts Activity: Handprint Tree Art, Wed., Sept. 19, 3:30-5pm, Pāhala Community Center. For keiki in grades K-8. Register Sept. 13-18. Free. hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation, 928-3102

THURSDAY, SEPT. 20
Hawaiʻi Disability Legal Services, Thu., Sept. 20, 9-noon, Ocean View Community Center. ovcahi.org, 939-7033, ovcahawaii@gmail.com

ONGOING
5th Annual Kaʻū Coffee Trail Run Registration Open, online at webscorer.com/register?raceid=128145. Fees through Sept. 20: 5K, $55/person; 10K, $65/person; and 1/2 Marathon, $75/person. On Race Day, $75 per person, any race. Race Day is Sat., Sept. 22, 7 a.m.; begins and ends at Kaʻū Coffee Mill, kaucoffeemill.com. Event organizers: ʻO Kaʻū Kākou, okaukakou.org.

Activities at Kahuku Park - within Hawaiian Ocean View Estates - over the next two months, include two physical activities, three arts and crafts activities, and a Park Beautification Day.
     For all ages:
     - Friendship Bracelets: Wed., Sept. 19, 3 to 4 p.m. Registration open through Sept. 14.
     - Park Beautification Day: Fri., Sept. 28, 1:30 to 4 p.m. Registration open Sept. 19 through 26.
     Activities are free to attend. For more, call Teresa Anderson at 929-9113 or visit the park during business hours: Monday, Wednesday and Friday, from 12:45 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. and Tuesday from 8 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. See hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation.

Free Arts and Crafts Activities at Pāhala Comunity Center happen on Wednesdays in September, from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m., through the end of Sept., for keiki in Kindergarten through 8th grade.
     - Sept. 19: Handprint Tree Art. Register through Sept. 18.
     - Sept. 26: Beaded Wind Chime. Register Sept. 19 through 25.
     For more, call 928-3102 or visit the community center during business hours: Monday-Thursday and Saturday, from noon to 8 p.m., or Friday, from 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. See hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation.

Volunteers Needed by St. Jude's Episcopal Church for community outreach, especially soup cooks and shower organizers, towel laundry, alter guild, and for the computer lab. Volunteers do not have to be members of the church. "Volunteering for St. Jude's Saturday Shower and Soup ministry is an opportunity to serve God in a powerful way," states St. Jude's. Contact Dave Breskin, 319-8333.

Tūtū and Me Traveling Preschools Temporary Nāʻālehu Location is Kauahaʻao Church in Waiʻōhinu. Meeting days and times remain the same: Mondays and Wednesdays, from 8:45 to 10:45 a.m. Pāhala site program meets Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 8:30 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, to aid with parenting tips and strategies, educational resources, and a compassionate listening ear. Free. Visits last 1.5 hours, two to four times a month, total of 12 visits. Snacks are provided.
     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 at rwilliams@harmonyed.com or 430-9798.

Disaster Recovery Center Closes Sept. 29. Open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Pāhoa Neighborhood Center at 15-3022 Kauhale St. Survivors who have left the area, call 800-621-3362.

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, September 12, 2018

Kaʻū News Briefs Wednesday, September 12, 2018

FORMER HURRICANE OLIVIA blew through and away from the islands as a Tropical Storm today, reports the Central Pacific Hurricane Center. Olivia, once a Category 4, skirted passed the north end of Hawaiʻi Island and made a double landfall on Maui and on Lanaʻi. Olivia knocked out power for thousands of people, closed roads, toppled trees, and flooded streams, taking out at least one home and several cars, and forcing some people to evacuate. Olivia was the first tropical cyclone to make landfall on Maui and Lanaʻi in recorded history.
     As of 5 p.m, the storm was traveling at 20 mph toward the west southwest, with winds of 40 mph. Tropical Storm warnings were dropped for the entire state. Olivia is expected to change direction to the west northwest as she distances herself from the islands, dragging moisture through the islands behind her.
Olivia passed through the islands today after slowing down.
She flooded streams, and knocked out power.
Image from Central Pacific Hurricane Center
     Kaʻū escaped effects from the storm, other than some high surf, but other portions of Hawaiʻi Island, particularly north and eastern-facing shores, experienced higher surf, winds, and rain.
     Civil Defense reports that all Kaʻū public parks, beaches, and roads are open, and all school activities are operating as normal. Civil Defense also reminds the public that the Pāhoa Community Center shelter closes Monday, Sept. 17, and the Disaster Recovery Center closes Saturday, Sept. 29.

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 staff survey a rockfall while inspecting 
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes for reopening. NPS photo
SAFETY IS KEY TO REOPENING PORTIONS OF HAWAIʻI VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK in ten days, says a statement issued this morning:
     "As we prepare to welcome the world back to Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, we want to ensure that the public and our staff are as safe as possible. Many hazards exist in the park, as they always have, however some are more dangerous now than before the unprecedented seismic activity. Being prepared and informed before coming to the park will ensure that your visit is safe and enjoyable.
     "Help keep our National Park Service staff safe. When unauthorized persons enter closed areas, they are not only endangering themselves, but also the NPS rangers who may have to rescue them." Monetary fines for entering a closed area are steep and trespassers may also receive up to six months of jail time.
     Molten lava is no longer present or visible anywhere in the park. The recent eruption saw the disappearance of the lava lake inside Halema‘uma‘u crater at the summit and lava flows from Pu‘u ‘Ō‘ō have ceased.
A park staff member documents a sinkhole on 
a walking path in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes, in 
preparation for opening of limited areas 
of the park on Saturday, Sept. 22, at 10 a.m. 
NPS photo
     Inspections of park infrastructure continue. Twenty-nine miles of trail are evaluated. National Park Service assessment teams inspected 54 buildings and restored non-potable water to 12 buildings. At this time, there is no drinking water available in the park. Plan accordingly before arriving at Hawai‘i Volcanoes, as services may be extremely limited.
     For the safety of visitors, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes offers a list of things to do and not do when exploring the park's many features:
     Use only open trails and roads. Closed trails and roads are dangerous; do not enter. Pukas - holes or cracks in the ground - are prevalent throughout the park and often hidden under vegetation or ash. These unstable and dangerous features can collapse at any time and may have fragile edges or be undercut. If possible, hike and travel with at least one other person and let someone know the travel plan.
     Stay away from cliff edges and be aware of rockfalls that may occur as the land continues to settle after tens of thousands of recent earthquakes and caldera collapses.
     Volcanic ash is present in many areas, especially the Ka‘ū Desert, where whirlwinds of ash swirl across the landscape every day. Park staff recommends that visitors carry protective eyewear and an N-95 particulate mask for hiking the Footprints Trail into the Ka‘ū Desert. Conditions may suddenly become hazardous during high wind events and particulates in the air can cause eye and lung irritation. Pele's Hair - fine threads of volcanic glass - is present in many areas and can be extremely abrasive and harmful to respiratory systems and exposed skin.
A fallen sign, reminding visitors to stay on trails 
at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes. NPS photo
     Wear sturdy shoes and long pants. Falling on lava rock is like falling on broken glass. There is very little shade in lava fields around the park and temperatures may be much higher than surrounding areas. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. The park's water remains unsafe to drink. All visitors should bring at least two quarts or more of drinking water per person.
     Do not hike after dark due to new hazards in the area. Even those who are familiar with the park should be cautious while hiking because of these hazards.
     Although sulfur dioxide is at the lowest recorded levels since 2007, air quality may change at any time. If the air irritates the lungs, smells bad, or with difficulty in breathing, leave the area immediately. The Kīlauea Visitor Center offers updates on air quality, as does the park air quality monitoring website: hawaiiso2network.com
     Hawaiʻi Volcanoes plans to reopen at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 22. For more information, visit the park's website at 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.

HAWAIʻI IS THE HAPPIEST STATE IN THE NATION, and happiness doesn't come from money, determined a WalletHub report this week. Happiness "comes from a combination of internal and external factors," and can be influenced "somewhat by approaching situations positively or choosing to spend time with people we love, doing activities we enjoy."
     On money not making people happy, the report says happiness only increases with wealth up to an annual income of $75,000. One thing that can have a big influence on how people feel about life, says the report, is where people choose to live.
     WalletHub drew upon the "findings of 'happiness' research" to see what influences overall well-being and satisfaction with life most. Other studies have found that good economic, emotional, physical, and social health are all key to a well-balanced and fulfilled life.
     For this study, Wallethub examined the 50 states across 31 key metrics, ranging from depression rate to sports participation rate to income growth. Hawaiʻi ranked highest in overall satisfaction with life, or happiness. Utah ranked second, with MinnesotaNorth Dakota, and California ranking through fifth. The least happy state was West Virginia, at about half the happiness rate of Hawaiʻi.
     Hawaiʻi had the third lowest incidence of adult depression, the fifth lowest rate of separation and divorce, and the tenth lowest suicide rate. Hawaiʻi ranked eighth in safety. The islands had the 13th greatest income growth, 19th lowest long-term unemployment rate, and the 30th lowest number of work hours.
     However,  Hawaiʻi ranked 50th of all the United States in getting "adequate" sleep.
     See the full report at wallethub.com/edu/happiest-states/6959.

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UNIVERSITY OF HAWAIʻI WON A GRANT OF MORE THAN $4.1 MILLION from the National Science Foundation to "promote diversity and improve engagement" in the science, technology, engineering, and math fields. Sen. Mazie Hirono reported that UH will receive $3,824,364 through the Louis Stokes Alliances for Minority Participation Program and $299,208 through the Improving Undergraduate STEM Education program.
     Hirono said, "As the need for STEM workers continue to grow, we must ensure that students in Hawaiʻi have every opportunity to pursue college degrees in these fields. This funding will support University of Hawai`i efforts to encourage Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander students to pursue STEM careers and monitor participation by traditionally underrepresented groups in UH’s STEM pipeline."
     Hirono has continued to advocate for federal programs that promote a strong STEM workforce by broadening participation for women, minorities, and other traditionally underrepresented groups, says a release from her office. Earlier this year, the Senator led a letter with four of her colleagues calling on the foundation to maintain funding for its programs that broaden participation for women and minorities, including the LSAMP and IUSE programs.
     In 2016, the Senator convened a Senate Small Business Committee and Entrepreneurship field hearing at Maui High School to hear from national experts, including NSF, and local stakeholders regarding the importance of promoting more women and minorities in the STEM workforce. In 2017, Hirono reintroduced her legislative plan to increase opportunities for women and minorities in STEM, which included two bills that would improve diversity and competitiveness in the STEM workforce by making sure women and minority students have opportunities to succeed.

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PROGRAMS HELPING TO END VETERAN HOMELESSNESS are set to expire starting Sept. 30. Senators Mazie Hirono and John Boozman (R-AR), members of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, have introduced legislation to renew seven of those programs for the next fiscal year through 2020, says a release from Hirono's office.
     The bill, known as the Keeping Our Commitment to Ending Veteran Homelessness Act of 2018, would renew seven U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and U.S. Department of Labor programs that provide outreach and services to homeless veterans and their families, says the release.
     Hirono said, "Organizations in Hawaiʻi and nationwide are working hard every day to help ensure our country's veterans have access to necessary resources and a permanent, stable roof over their heads. We cannot allow funding for these critical programs to lapse and I thank Senator Boozman for his strong support in this fight to keep our commitments to our veterans and their families."
     Boozman said, "We must support our nation's veterans by providing them with the tools and resources they need to end the cycle of homelessness. We've seen the success of these programs in Arkansas and all across the country to help our veterans rebuild their lives. Continuing to fund these services must be a priority."
     U.S.VETS' Chief Operating Officer Darryl Vincent said, "U.S.VETS is the nation's largest homeless veteran service provider that commits itself to reintegrating homeless and at-risk veterans and their families in to the community. It is our mission at U.S.VETS to work for the day that no veteran who has given their life to protect our freedoms suffer the indignity of homelessness. Programs that provide support for our veterans have played, and continue to play, a vital role in helping us fulfill our commitment to serving those who served by bringing us closer to the goal of ending veteran homelessness."
     For Fiscal Year 2018, these programs served approximately 725 veterans and their families across Hawaiʻi. The expiring provisions impact these following seven programs that provide outreach and services to homeless veterans and their families:

Volunteers serve food to homeless veterans and
their families. Photo from army.mil
   - Healthcare for Homeless Veterans: Conducts outreach to homeless veterans, provides care and treatment for medical, psychiatric, and substance use disorders, and refers veterans for supportive services.

   - Grants and Per Diem (GPD) Homeless Veterans with Special Needs: Allows VA to award grants to community-based agencies to create transitional housing programs and offer per diem payments. GPD Special Needs funding assists with operating costs of services for special need groups such as women, chronically mental ill, and those with minor dependents.

   - Supportive Services for Veteran Families: Funds grants for supportive services to assist very low-income veterans and their families who are either residing in permanent housing or transitioning from homelessness.

   - Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program: Provides services to veterans including outreach, assistance in interview preparation, job search, job training, and follow-up assistance after placement.
Active military try to give aid to homeless former military.
Photo from dod.defense.gov
   - Homeless Women Veterans and Homeless Veterans with Children Reintegration Program: Provides job training, counseling, placement services (including job readiness, literacy and skills training) and child care services to expedite the reintegration of homeless women veterans and homeless veterans with children into the labor force.
   - Incarcerated Veterans Transition Program: Provides job referral and counseling services, housing, health care, and other benefits to assist veterans who are leaving prison.
   - Advisory Committee on Homeless Veterans: Provides advice to the VA secretary on benefits and services the VA gives to homeless veterans.

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Print edition of The Kaʻū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes 
throughout Kaʻū, from Miloliʻi through Volcano, and free on 
stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com
KAʻŪ TROJANS FALL SPORTS SCHEDULE
Football:
   Sat., Sept. 15, 1pm, @ Kohala
   Sat., Sept. 22, 3:30pm, host Lanai @ Keaʻau
   Sat., Sept. 29, 11am, host Pāhoa
   Sat, Oct 6, 12pm, host Kohala
   Sat, Oct 13, BIIF Semi-Finals at Kamehameha
Girls Volleyball:
   Fri., Sept. 14, @ Kamehameha
   Mon., Sept. 17, 6pm, host Lapahoehoe
   Wed., Sept. 19, 6pm, host Kohala
   Thu., Sept. 20, 6pm, @ Honokaʻa
   Tue., Sept. 25, 6pm, @ HPA
   Fri., Sept. 28, 6pm, host Kona
   Mon., Oct. 1, 6pm, host HAAS
   Tues, Oct 2, 6pm, @ Kealakehe
   Fri, Oct 5, 6pm, host Keaʻau
   Wed, Oct 10, 6pm, @ Parker
   Fri, Oct 12, 6pm, host St. Joseph
Cross Country:
   Sat., Sept. 15, 10am, Keaʻau
   Sat., Sept. 22, 9am, @ HPA
   Fri., Sept. 28, 6pm, host Kona
   Mon., Oct. 1, 6pm, host HAAS
   Sat, Oct 6, 2pm, @ Kealakehe
   Sat, Oct 13, BYE

NEW and UPCOMING
Photo by Jesse Tunison provided by volcanoartcenter.org
LITERATURE OF KĪLAUEA: CONTEMPORARY VOICES IS FEATURED SEPT. 20, at Volcano Art Center's Thursday Night at the Center, from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. The event presents an evening of poets, novelists, bloggers, biographers, and journal writers reading their own and others' work about Kīlauea. "Come hear the varied and powerful voices of this wide-ranging community of island writers, many our neighbors, each recognized for a unique voice and view of this living volcano," states the event description on volcanoartcenter.org.
     The event takes place at Volcano Art Center's Ni‘aulani Campus in Volcano Village and is free to attend; however, a donation of $5 to support Volcano Art Center is suggested.
     Volcano Art Center offers a Thursday Night at the Center event once a month, focusing on art, Hawaiian culture and the local environment. The series is intended to inspire and enhance appreciation of art and life experience, while fostering community connections.
     For more, call 967-8222 or visit volcanoartcenter.org.

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THURSDAY, SEPT. 13
Story Time with Auntie Linda from Tūtū and Me, Thu., Sept. 13, 10:30-noon, Nāʻālehu Public Library. 929-8571

Hawaiian Civic Club of Kaʻū, Thu., Sept. 13, 6:30pm, United Methodist Church in Nāʻālehu. Pres. Berkley Yoshida, 747-0197

FRIDAY, SEPT. 14
Free Community Dance, Fri., Sept. 14, 7-10pmCooper CenterVolcano Village. Minors allowed with supervision only. Alcohol-free event. Variety of music. Coffee, tea, water, and snack provided. Free admission; donations appreciated. 967-7800, thecoopercenter.org

SATURDAY, SEPT. 15
Hawaiʻi Wildlife Fund "Get the Drift and Bag It" International Coastal Cleanup, Sat., Sept. 15, contact in advance for meet up time at Waiʻōhinu Park. 4WD needed, some space available but limited. RSVP. Free; donations appreciated. kahakai.cleanups@gmail.com, wildhawaii.org

Palm Trail, Sat., Sept. 15, 9:30-12:30pm, Kahuku Unit of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Moderately difficult, 2.6-mile loop traverses scenic pastures along an ancient cinder cone, with some of the best panoramic views Kahuku has to offer. nps.gov/HAVO

John D. Dawson Studio Sale, Sat.-Sun., Sept. 15-16, 10-3pmVolcano Art Center's Niʻaulani Campus, Volcano Village. Sale includes original acrylic and watercolor paintings, rough sketches, and pen and ink drawings from decades of work as a well-known professional illustrator. Special preview to VAC members Fri., Sept. 14, 4-6pm. Contact Emily C. Weiss, 967-8222, or visit volcanoartcenter.org.

Ocean View C.E.R.T. Meeting, Sat., Sept. 15, 10-1pmOcean View Community Center. Community Emergency Response Team Monthly meeting/training. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Hula Kahiko - Paul Neves w/ Hula Hālau Kou Lima Nani E, Sat., Sept. 15, 10:30-11:30am, hula platform near Volcano Art Center Niʻaulani Campus, Volcano Village. Hula performance. Free. Desiree, 987-7288, volcanohula@gmail.com, volcanoartcenter.org

Nā Mea Hula w/ Loke Kamanu and ʻOhana, Sat., Sept. 15, 11-1pm, Volcano Art Center Niʻaulani Campus, Volcano Village. Hands-on cultural demonstration. Free. Desiree, 987-7288, volcanohula@gmail.com, volcanoartcenter.org

Potluck and Dance, Sat., Sept. 15, 5:30pm, Discovery Harbour Community Hall. Live music by Shootz Band. BYOBeverage. $5/ticket. Register at office by Sept. 12. Discovery Harbour Community Association, 929-9576

Bunco and Potluck, Sat., Sept. 15, 6pm, 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

SUNDAY, SEPT. 16
Kaʻū ʻOhana Day: Picnic In The Park, Sun., Sept. 16, 12-3pm, Kahuku Unit of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park; entrance near 70.5 mile marker on Hwy 11). Family-friendly event. Shave ice, food vendors, children's activities, hula, and music. nps.gov/HAVO

MONDAY, SEPT. 17
Discovery Harbour Neighborhood Watch Meeting, Mon., Sept. 17, 5-6:30pm, Discovery Harbour Community Hall. 929-9576, discoveryharbour.net

TUESDAY, SEPT. 18
Hawaiʻi County Council Meetings, Tue./Wed., Sept. 18 (Committees)/19 (Council), Kona. Kaʻū residents can participate via videoconferencing at Nāʻālehu State Office Building. Agendas at hawaiicounty.gov

Wonderful World of Wine and Watercolor, Tue., Sept. 18, 4-7pmVolcano Art Center's Niʻaulani Campus, Volcano Village. Artist Nancy DeLucrezia shows how to transfer a photo onto watercolor paper and introduces basic techniques in watercolor painting. Sampling of several wines from wine store "Grapes" in Hilo. $30/VAC member, $35/non-members, plus $17 supply fee. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 19
Ocean View Community Association Board Meeting, Wed., Sept. 19, 12:30pmOcean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Arts and Crafts Activity: Friendship Bracelets, Wed., Sept. 19, 3-4pm, Kahuku Park, Hawaiian Ocean View Estates. For all ages. Register Sept. 10-14. 929-9113, hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation

Arts and Crafts Activity: Handprint Tree Art, Wed., Sept. 19, 3:30-5pm, Pāhala Community Center. For keiki in grades K-8. Register Sept. 13-18. Free. hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation, 928-3102

ONGOING
Disaster Recovery Center Closes Sept. 29; Deadline to Apply for Aid is Today, Sept. 12. Open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Pāhoa Neighborhood Center at 15-3022 Kauhale St. See information applicants need to bring, or register online, at fema.gov/disaster/4366. If you are a survivor who has left the area, call 800-621-3362.

5th Annual Kaʻū Coffee Trail Run Registration Open, online at webscorer.com/register?raceid=128145. Fees through Sept. 20: 5K, $55/person; 10K, $65/person; and 1/2 Marathon, $75/person. On Race Day, $75 per person, any race. Race Day is Sat., Sept. 22, 7 a.m.; begins and ends at Kaʻū Coffee Mill, kaucoffeemill.com. Event organizers: ʻO Kaʻū Kākou, okaukakou.org.

Activities at Kahuku Park - within Hawaiian Ocean View Estates - over the next two months, include two physical activities, three arts and crafts activities, and a Park Beautification Day.
     For all ages:
     - Friendship Bracelets: Wed., Sept. 19, 3 to 4 p.m. Registration open through Sept. 14.
     - Park Beautification Day: Fri., Sept. 28, 1:30 to 4 p.m. Registration open Sept. 19 through 26.
     Activities are free to attend. For more, call Teresa Anderson at 929-9113 or visit the park during business hours: Monday, Wednesday and Friday, from 12:45 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. and Tuesday from 8 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. See hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation.

Free Arts and Crafts Activities at Pāhala Comunity Center happen on Wednesdays in September, from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m., through the end of Sept., for keiki in Kindergarten through 8th grade.
     - Sept. 19: Handprint Tree Art. Register Sept. 13 through 18.
     - Sept. 26: Beaded Wind Chime. Register Sept. 19 through 25.
     For more, call 928-3102 or visit the community center during business hours: Monday-Thursday and Saturday, from noon to 8 p.m., or Friday, from 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. See hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation.

Volunteers Needed by St. Jude's Episcopal Church for community outreach, especially soup cooks and shower organizers, towel laundry, alter guild, and for the computer lab. Volunteers do not have to be members of the church. "Volunteering for St. Jude's Saturday Shower and Soup ministry is an opportunity to serve God in a powerful way," states St. Jude's. Contact Dave Breskin, 319-8333.

Tūtū and Me Traveling Preschools Temporary Nāʻālehu Location is Kauahaʻao Church in Waiʻōhinu. Meeting days and times remain the same: Mondays and Wednesdays, from 8:45 to 10:45 a.m. Pāhala site program meets Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 8:30 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, to aid with parenting tips and strategies, educational resources, and a compassionate listening ear. Free. Visits last 1.5 hours, two to four times a month, total of 12 visits. Snacks are provided.
     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 at rwilliams@harmonyed.com or 430-9798.

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