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Thursday, October 25, 2018

Kaʻū News Briefs Thursday, October 25, 2018

Marylou Staman (left) worked on East Island during the last two honu nesting seasons. It is likely that honu from
Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach nest there, living the rest of their lives in Kaʻū waters. Photo from NOAA
PUNALUʻU BLACK SAND'S HONU RELIED ON EAST ISLAND before it was destroyed when Hurricane Walaka ploughed through Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. There's more than a 95 percent likelihood that the turtles from Punaluʻu nested there, said Jennifer Sims, Coordinator of the Turtle Stranding Response Team at University of Hawaiʻi-Hilo.
     Sims said this morning that East Island, blown away and submerged by Hurricane Walaka on Oct. 3, was one of threatened Hawaiian green sea turtles' most preferred nesting places. She explained that green sea turtles living most of the time at Punaluʻu begin nesting when they are 23 to 24 years of age by swimming to their birth place and returning for the rest of their reproductive lives. They stay at the nesting place for three to four months in the summer, accompanied by some males. This summer they completed nesting at the end of August, so no eggs or turtles were washed away during Hurricane Walaka. However, where to nest next year becomes a problem. Will they swim to East Island and find no beach? Will they have the strength to swim back to Punaluʻu, if they have no place to rest? Will they go to an island near East Island and nest? These are all questions to be studied, said Sims.
Some turtles are marked with non-toxic paint so observers can
report seeing them as they travel from populated to unpopulated
Hawaiian Islands. Photo from NOAA
     She also explained that the turtles likely swim from Punaluʻu to East Island in French Frigate Shoals every two to three years to nest. After the long roundtrip, they likely take a year or two break from nesting.
     She said the loss of East Island and any other nesting place in French Frigate Shoals is critical, since the beaches are shared by endangered monk seals and seabirds. She said that every inch of a place to nest or give birth is precious, with extreme competition for space among the various wildlife species.

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THE HAWAIʻI SUPREME COURT HEARD ARGUMENTS TODAY ON CONSIDERING GREEN HOUSE GAS EMISSIONS when the Public Utilities Commission decides whether to allow production of electricity for the Hawaiʻi grid.
     The case involves Hu Honua and the near completion of its electrical plant at Pepeʻekeo, designed to burn wood to make electricity. Some of that wood would come from eucalyptus tree farms above Pāhala on Kamehameha School lands. Life of the Land sued, saying Hawaiʻi law requires greenhouse emissions to be considered in the decision making. LOL is appealing to become an intervenor in the case and participate in the proceedings, claiming it has "a due process right to protect its right to a clean and healthful environment."
Eucalyptus above Pāhala scheduled for harvesting for
fuel to make electricity. The state Supreme Court
heard arguments today. Photo by Julia Neal
     During today's arguments, Justice Richard Pollack asked about the disappearance of East Island in French Frigate Shoals as a possibly related to climate change and greenhouse gas emissions. The justices asked for explanations of the difference between renewable energy, such as biofuel that can be grown, and energy sources that could be renewable but also contribute to greenhouses gasses.
     Hu Honua contends that burning farmed eucalyptus would help relieve Hawaiʻi from using fossil fuels.
     
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MORE LODGING, DINING, AND CAMPING opportunities will soon be available as Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park continues to reopen areas that were closed more than four months due to damaging volcanic and seismic activity.
     Dinner service resumed at 5 p.m. tonight at the Volcano House restaurant, The Rim, which overlooks Kīlauea Volcano's ever-changing summit. On Friday, breakfast, lunch, and dinner will again be served at The Rim, and Uncle George's Lounge – now open for beverages only – will offer its bar menu. Visit the Volcano House website for hours of operation, menu and reservations:
     Volcano House reopened to hotel guests on Oct. 6, and is again accepting reservations. The hotel also manages the park's Nāmakanipaio Campground. Hotel management expects to fully reopen the popular campground and A-frame cabins the first week of December.
The Rim reopened at Volcano House this evening.
Photo from Volcano House
     On Oct. 19, the park reopened Kulanaokuaiki Campground and Hilina Pali Road up to the drive-in campground. The road past the campground was severely damaged by earthquakes and remains closed to vehicles, but hikers and bicyclists (on non-motorized bicycles only) can use the road to access Hilina Pali Overlook, and Hilina Pali and Ka‘aha trails.
     Most backcountry campgrounds and trails are now open in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, including Mauna Loa, the coastal sites, and Nāpau. Pepeiao Cabin and the Ka‘ū Desert Trail past the Footprints shelter remain closed. Also closed are Kīlauea Iki Trail, which was damaged by large boulders that fell in late September, and Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tube), which continues to be analyzed for potential hazards. All trails going into Kīlauea caldera remain closed, along with sections of Crater Rim Trail.
     Other parts of the park, including Kīlauea Visitor Center, reopened Sept. 22, following a record 134-day closure due to hazardous volcanic and seismic activity on Kīlauea Volcano. An average 1,806 people have visited the park each day between Sept. 22 and Oct. 22, 2018, as the park continues to move ahead with plans to reopen areas for the public.

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AN EXTENSION FOR COMMENTS ON THE PĀHALA SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANT Environmental Assessment has been requested by several community members and gained support at this week's county Environmental Management Commission meeting. Sophia Hanoa, of Pāhala, and Jerry Warren, of Nāʻālehu, testified for the extension. The request is being considered by the county and the Environmental Protection Agency. A group of Kaʻū residents are being assisted by Terri Napeahi, of Pele Defense Fund. A Hilo resident, she is a clean water advocate and recently ran for the state House of Representatives in the Primary Election.
     The treatment plant is proposed for the corner of Maile Street and Hwy 11.

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Old time Democrats' political rally in 2016. It happens again at Hilo Bandstand on Monday. Nov. 5.
Photo by Julia Neal
THE DEMOCRATIC PARTY GRAND RALLY ON MONDAY, NOV. 5, begins at 4:30 p.m. at Moʻoheau Bandstand in Hilo. The Grand Rally will be live on Nā Leo TV via Spectrum Channel 54. It will stream online at naleo.tv/channel-54, and via Nā Leo's mobile app available for both Android and Apple Devices: marketplace-redirect.doapps.com/3609.
     Giving speeches will be Democratic candidates for Congress Tulsi Gabbard and Sen. Mazie Hirono, and incumbent Gov. David Ige, who is also up for reelection. Many elected representatives in the legislature and on the County Council will also take part in the old fashioned, traditional rally.
     A statement from the Democratic Party says that this year's theme is "Imua, get on board now for 2020." Participants are expected to urge the community to "Commit to what you can do to get out the vote in 2020. We need everyone on board to make a stand in 2020."

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
EARLY WALK-IN VOTING IS AVAILABLE through Sat., Nov. 3. The early voting location for Kaʻū is at Pāhala Community Center, 96-1149 Kamani Street, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday - closed noon to 1 p.m.
     Local polls for the General Election open in precincts from Volcano through Kaʻū to Miloliʻi, from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Nov. 6. The nearest polling places are: Cooper Center, 19430 Wright Road in Volcano; Kaʻū High & Pāhala Elementary, 96-3150 Pikake Street; Nāʻālehu Elementary School, 95-5545 Mamalahoa Hwy; Ocean View Community Center, 92-8924 Leilani Circle; and Miloliʻi Halau Pavillion, off Hwy 11 in the Village of Miloliʻi. See more at elections.hawaii.gov.
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KAʻŪ TROJANS FALL SPORTS SCHEDULE
Football:
   Sat, Oct 27, 1pm, BIIF Finals at Pāhala Ball Park - Higher vs. Kaʻū.

NEW and UPCOMING

Collaborative art by artists from all over 
the island is on display at Volcano Art Center
 Gallery. Photo from volcanoartcenter.org 
VOLCANO ART CENTER GALLERY'S FIRST EXHIBIT SINCE RETURNING to its location within Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park remains on display, daily, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., through Sunday, Nov. 4. Called Volcano Collaborations 2018, Artists Invitational, it features an online auction for VAC member after the show closes.
     The show exhibits 18 master artists who came together to make art for two days during the first week of June 2018, while the park and gallery were closed due to Kīlauea Volcano's activity.
     Coordinated by Volcano artist Elizabeth Miller, the artists are: Lisa Louise Adams, Nash Adams Pruitt, Elizabeth Miller, Scott Pincus, Ed Clapp, Erik Wold, Joe Laceby, Henry Bianchini, Amy Flanders, Rose Adare, Eve Furchgott, Ethan Froney, Tai Lake, Mary Jo Lake, Jonah Lake, David Reisland, Matthew D’Avella, and Bill Hamilton.
     "The Ni‘aulani Campus of the Volcano Art Center was filled with creative energy and the intoxicating sounds of saws, blacksmithing torches, and much laughter as art making ideas took shape. On hand to assist in the wood shop area was Bill Hamilton, a member of the VAC Board of Directors. Several of the artists have been working diligently since June to finalize pieces for this exhibition," states the event description on volcanoartcenter.org.
     Collaboration 2018 is formatted after the Hawai‘i Artist' Collaboration which takes place annually in Kona. The Kona Collaboration Art Auction takes place Nov. 3, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m,  at Holualoa Inn; see eventbrite.com/e/hawaii-artist-collaboration-auction-2018-tickets-50105702505 for tickets.
Volcano Art Center Gallery location in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park.
Photo from volcanoartcenter.org 
     "We invite everyone back into the gallery in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park to view this exciting exhibit," states gallery manager Emily C. Weiss. "During the chaos of the summer months, it was completely refreshing to witness these talented artists coming together and creating amazing works of art. The joy that was shared during this unique art making experience was so important for the artists and for our community. The Volcano Art Center was so pleased to host this event and look forward to more in the coming years."
     For more, see volcanoartcenter.org or call 967-7565.

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.

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, OCTOBER 25
Hawai‘i Disability Legal Services, Thu., Oct. 25, 9-noon, Ocean View Community Center. ovcahi.org, 939-7033, ovcahawaii@gmail.com

Ka‘ū Community Children's Council, Thu., Oct. 25, 12-1:30pm, 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 Friends Feeding Friends, Thu., Oct. 25, 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

Craft Class, Thu., Oct. 25, 9:30-10:30am, PARENTS, Inc., Nā‘ālehu. For keiki 2-12 years old and caregivers. Free. 333-3460, lindsey@hawaiiparents.org

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26
Coffee Talk, Ka Wa‘a Kaulua: The Double-Hulled Canoe, Fri., Oct. 26, 9:30-11am, Kahuku Park, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Canoe sailor and builder Kiko Johnston-Kitazawa shares his knowledge and experience of the double-hulled canoe, which are still crafted and used today. Ka‘ū coffee, tea, and pastries available for purchase. Free. nps.gov/hawaiivolcanoes

Fall Costume Party, Fri., Oct. 26, 1:30-3:30pm, Nā‘ālehu Public Library. Snacks, activities and prizes. Free to all ages. 939-2442

Halloween Party, Fri, Oct. 26, 8pm-midnight, Kīlauea Military Camp's Lava Lounge, inside Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. $5 cover charge w/costume, $7 without. For patrons 21+. Call 967-8365 after 4pm for more. Park entrance fees may apply. kilaueamilitarycamp.com

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 27
VOTE: Deadline to submit General Election poll watcher names to Office of Elections or Clerk's Office, Sat., Oct. 27. elections.hawaii.gov

Craft Bazaar, Sat, Oct. 27, 9-3pm, Discovery Harbour Community Hall. Discovery Harbour Community Association, 929-9576

Paint Your Own Silk Scarf Workshop w/Patti Pease Johnson, Sat., Oct. 27, 9-12:30pm, Volcano Art Center's Ni‘aulani Campus, Volcano Village. Students paint and take home 8"x53" silk scarf using three colors of their choice. $45/VAC member, $50/non-member, plus $10 supply fee. Beginner and intermediate artists welcome. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

Nature & Culture: An Unseverable Relationship, Sat., Oct. 27, 9:30-11:30am, Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Moderate guided hike along the Palm Trail, approx. 2 miles. Free. nps.gov/hawaiivolcanoes

Will & Estate Seminar, Sat., Oct. 27, 10-3pm, Nā‘ālehu Assembly of God. 929-7278

Lava Evacuee Support Group Meeting, Sat., Oct. 27, 10-11am, Ocean View Community Center. Drinks and snacks provided. Reoccurring every last Saturday of the month hosted by CARE Hawai‘i, Inc. - Team Ahā, Crisis Counseling Program. 329-4817

Hands-On Fermented Foods Workshop: Sauerkraut and Kombucha w/Jasmine Silverstein of HeartBeet Foods, Sat., Oct. 27, 10-1pm, Volcano Art Center's Ni‘aulani Campus. $50/VAC member, $55/non-member. Pre-registration required. All supplies and organic ingredients provided. No cooking skills necessary. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

Tiki Mama's Road to the Sea Halloween Party will feature the Night Stalkers. Doors open at 4:20 p.m. on Saturday, Oct, 27, at 92-9122 Mamalahoa Hwy, Ocean View. Suggested donation is $10 plus a can of food. Tiki Mama's events support Hawaiʻi Food Bank.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 28
Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund Kamilo Point Clean-Up & Debris Survey with UH-Hilo's Marine Science Dept., Sun., Oct. 28. Call for meet up time at Wai‘ōhinu Park. BYO-4WD vehicle. Free; donations appreciated. kahakai.cleanups@gmail.com, mattie.hwf@gmail.com, wildhawaii.org

‘Ōhi‘a Lehua, Sun, Oct. 28, 9:30-11am, Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Learn about vital role of ‘ōhi‘a lehua in native Hawaiian forests, and many forms of ‘ōhi‘a tree and its flower, on this free, easy, one-mile walk. nps.gov/hawaiivolcanoes

MONDAY, OCTOBER 29
Free Zulu - Hip Hop Dance Class taught by Crystal Castillo and Spyder. Open to keiki in kindergarten through eighth grade, Monday, Oct. 29, from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., in the Ka‘ū District Gym's multi-purpose room. Register through Monday, Oct. 29. For more, call 928-3102.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 30
VOTE: Deadline to request General Election mail ballot from Clerk's Office, Tue., Oct. 30. elections.hawaii.gov

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

After Dark in the Park, Woven Strands & Braided Cords: Philosophy & Metaphysics in Pre-Contact Hawaiian Astronomy, Tue., Oct. 30, 7pm, Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Author and researcher Martha Noyes. Program co-sponsored by Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Call 985-6011. Free; donations help support park programs. Park entrance fees apply. nps.gov/hawaiivolcanoes

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 31
Kōkua Kupuna Project, Wed., Oct. 31, 9-11am, St. Jude's Episcopal Church, Ocean View. Seniors 60 years & older encouraged to attend, ask questions, and inquire about services offered through Legal Aid Society of Hawai‘i. Referral required from Hawai‘i County Office of Aging at 961-8626 for free legal services. Under 60, call 1-800-499-4302. More info: tahisha.despontes@legalaidhawaii.org, 329-3910 ext. 925. legalaidhawaii.org

Pā‘ani with Amy Ka‘awaloa- ‘Ike Hana No‘eau (Experience the Skillful Work), Wed., Oct. 31, 10-2pm, Kīlauea Visitor Center lānai, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Ka‘awaloa shares her knowledge about the Makahiki season, the ancient Hawaiian New Year festival, celebrated in three phases, one of which involved playing games. Co-sponsored by Hawai‘i Pacific Parks Association. Free; park entrance fees apply. 985-6011, nps.gov/hawaiivolcanoes

Public Access Room comes to Ocean View on Wednesday, Oct. 31. The non-partisan division of Hawaiʻi state legislature's legislative Reference Bureau will offer workshops. Free and open to the public, they focus on training for creating, following, and testifying on legislation.
     Two workshops will be offered. The first is geared towards newcomers, provides an introduction to the state legislative process to prepare new participants for the session. The second workshop is for those with an understanding of lawmaking. It will offer advanced advocacy tips on effective lobbying and often overlooked online resources. How-To guides, informational handouts, and other resources will be available.
     PAR's staff will be at Ocean View Ocean View Community Center on Wednesday, Oct. 31, at 92-8924 Leilani Circle. The Beginners Presentation will be from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.; the Advanced Presentation will be from 2:15 p.m. to 3 p.m. Additional presentations will be in Kona, Waimea, Pāhoa, and Hilo, from Oct. 29 through Nov. 1.
     For more, call toll free to 808-974-4000, ext. 7-0478, email Keanu Young at k.young@capitol.hawaii.gov, or go to lrbhawaii.org.

Kaʻū Octoberfest Trunk-or-Treat happens Wednesday, Oct. 31, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in the Ka‘ū District Gym's multi-purpose room. Register all ages Oct. 15 through 31. For more, call 928-3102. The event is looking for community members to offer treats and/or candy to keiki attending the event. Organized by Department of Parks and Recreation, Kaʻū District Gym, and Pāhala High & Elementary School, there will also be a vehicle decorating contest. Call 928-3102 for more.

ONGOING
Tūtū and Me tuition-free traveling preschool, for keiki birth to five years old and their caregivers, is temporarily moving their Pāhala site program for Oct. 25, and 30, and Nov. 1, to the River of Life Assembly of God church. The group still meets Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. They will be back at Pāhala Community Center on Nov. 6. The Nāʻālehu location remains at Kauahaʻao Church in Waiʻōhinu, Mondays and Wednesdays, from 8:45 to 10:45 a.m.
     Tūtū and Me also offers home visits to aid caregivers with parenting tips and strategies, educational resources, and a compassionate, listening ear. Visits last 1.5 hours, two to four times a month, total of 12 visits. Snacks are provided.
     To enroll in either free program, fill out enrollment forms found at pidf.org/programs/tutu_and_me/enrollment_forms, or call Linda Bong at 929-8571, or Betty Clark at 464-9634 or eclark@pidfountation.org.

Hoʻokupu Hula No Kaʻū Cultural Festival happens Saturday, Nov. 3, at Pāhala Community Center, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Featuring Master Cultural Practitioners, Kukakuka (talk story), and many educational and cultural experiences with hands-on demonstrations. The festival is preceded by ceremonies at Punaluʻu Beach at dawn; at sunset, a ceremony will be held to honor ancestors; the festival will close with a ceremony at Makanau.
     Craft vendors, food vendors, and informational booths can still be applied for. Contact Kumu Hula Debbie Ryder at leionalani47@hotmail.com or (808) 649-9334 for an application. Last year brought over 1,000 spectators.
     The festival features hula performed by hālau from MexicoJapanWest Virginia, Oʻahu, South America, and Hawaiʻi Island. Traditional ethnic dance performances will come from Mexico, as well as the University of Hawaiʻi-Hilo Filipino Dancers. Taiko Drummers will perform. This year's headliner musical acts include Hoʻaikāne, Wailau Ryder, Keʻaiwa, Victor Chock, and Steven Sioloa.
     Sponsors include County Council member Maile
 David and community contributions through fundraising. See hookupukau.com.

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.

CU Hawaiʻi Federal Credit Union's Nāʻālehu Branch is taking applications for a Member Service Representative.
     The job description reads: Serve as a liaison between the member and the Credit Union. Provide a variety of financial services to members including savings, share drafts, and loan transactions, as well as sales of merchandise items: money orders, traveler's checks, postage stamps, etc., in accordance with Credit Union procedures and policies. CU Hawaiʻi offers medical, drug, dental, vision and retirement benefits.
     Mail, hand-deliver, or fax application to: CU Hawaii Federal Credit Union, Attn: Human Resources, 476 Hinano Street, Hilo, HI 96720, Fax (808) 935-7793. Applications can be downloaded online at cuhawaii.com/about-cu/career-opportunities.html

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Wednesday, October 24, 2018

Kaʻū News Briefs Wednesday, October 24, 2018

The Food Basket offers fresh produce from local sources at affordable or discounted prices for all of Hawaiʻi Island. Mobile and delivery programs in Kaʻū make accessing fresh food possible. See below for more. Photos from Food Basket
THE PAC ORGANIZERS WHO OPPOSED THE MEASURE TO FUND SCHOOLS THROUGH INVESTMENT PROPERTY TAXES will turn their campaign to auditing the use of funds for education, administered by the statewide public school system. A Pacific Business News story today, by real estate editor Janis L. Magin, reports that the "Affordable Hawaiʻi Coalition will dissolve as a political action committee now that the Hawaiʻi Supreme Court has invalidated the ballot question prompted its formation, but the coalition's business leaders say they are turning their focus to promoting financial transparency in the state’s public education funding."
     Coalition board member Colbert Matsumoto, executive chairman of the board of Island Insurance Cos. and chairman of Tradewind Capital Group, told PBN: "We have a diverse group of people that came together behind this and I think what we recognize is we were effective in convening these groups to basically talk and collaborate together. We think there is an opportunity to continue that… around the issues surrounding public education, as well as other issues of concern, such as the cost of living in Hawaiʻi."
     PBN reported that the coalition met with the Hawaiʻi State Teachers Association, the 11,000-strong union that campaigned for the constitutional amendment. Matsumoto said that  "one of the concerns that our group has is really for financial transparency and with that, an evaluation of the system that is currently in place with the [Department of Education]." He said the Legislature and teachers union are also concerned about the spending of funds set aside for schools.

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HAWAIʻI ISLAND IS STILL SHUDDERING from lost revenue due to the recent Kīlauea eruption. In the accommodations industry, for the fourth month in a row, revenue per available room dropped. September saw a 12.5 percent dip, leaving RevPAR at $122, according to the report from Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority released Monday.
     In September, occupancy in Hawaiʻi Island hotels dipped 8.9 percent below last September's occupancy, taking it to 58.7 percent. Reduced income was slightly offset by a .9 percent increase in island Average Daily Room Rate, up from $247.
Over the first three quarters of the year, Hawaiʻi Island's RevPAR increased to $193, a 4.1 percent gain. ADR grew to $261, a 5.6 percent gain. Occupancy dropped from 75 percent to 73.9 percent.
 Statewide, there has been an overall increase, with Maui gaining the most with a RevPAR of $299, an increase of almost ten percent over last year. Oʻahu saw an increase of 3.2 percent, to $227 RevPAR.

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A VETERANS DAY CELEBRATION at Nāʻālehu Community Park, sponsored by ʻO Kaʻū Kākou, happens Monday, Nov. 12, from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. "Join us in honoring our Veterans with lunch & entertainment," says the announcement. The free event will feature Mark Yamanaka, Puna Taiko, and local groups Shootz and Bottle Blue.
     In celebrating all service persons, OKK would like to acknowledge those soldiers who gave "their lives for our freedom." From World War II: James Higashi, Isamu Ikeda, Reginald Osato, Yasuo Miyamoto, Toshio Kirito, Wendell Fujioka, Stephen Tong, and Jack Tanaka. From the Korean War: Edward Louis and Richard Murata.
     Contact OKK president Wayne Kawachi at 937-4773 for more. This is a drug and alcohol-free event.

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FOOD BASKET PROGRAMS, including DA BOX and DA BUS, are available in Kaʻū. The programs were created "to provide affordable access to fresh, produce, and to support local farmers" says a release from the group. Hawaiʻi Food Basket purchases Hawaiʻi Island grown produce from local farmers and resells to customers island-wide.
    "The Food Basket's mission is to end hunger in Hawaiʻi County," says the group. "Our vision is for Hawaiʻi County to be a model for food security and sustainability through the leadership of The Food Basket, a trusted and stable agency distributing the safest and highest quality food for Hawaiʻi County. We have several programs in which we are helping to address challenges in which everyone in our community can benefit from."
     Hoʻolaha Ka Hua, DA BOX program, is both a retail and a SNAP/EBT-friendly community-supported agriculture program, open to everyone. Each once-weekly produce bag costs $16, and consists of a minimum of seven items, generally one to two fruits and five to six vegetables. SNAP/EBT customers get half-off every other bag. The program offers weekly delivery to a general pick-up location, with Kaʻū locations at Kahuku Park at Paradise Mauka Circle in Ocean View, and at Cooper Center at 19-4030 Wright Rd. in Volcano Village.
DA BUS Mobile Market. Photo from Food Basket
     DA BUS Mobile Market is at St. Jude's Church in Ocean View on the last Tuesday of the month from 11a.m. to noon, and in Pāhala at Ka‘u District Gym on the last Thursday of the month from 11a.m. to noon. DA BUS Project directly addresses the needs of low-income individuals with limited access to healthy food by increasing community self-reliance, and encouraging healthy lifestyle development through gardening and cooking instruction and demonstrations, and by increasing the economic viability of the local food economy by supporting local farmers and grocers.
     The Food Basket is also at the Volcano Farmers Market, 19-4030 Wright Rd., every third Sunday, from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m.
          Sign up or see more details at hawaiifoodbasket.org. Find the Mobile Market sales schedule at hawaiifoodbasket.org. Questions? Contact 933-6030 or 322-1418.

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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, Oct 27, 1pm, BIIF Finals at Pāhala Ball Park - Higher vs. Kaʻū

NEW and UPCOMING
RELAY RACES FOR KEIKI AGES 6 TO 12 YEARS OLD are held Friday, Nov. 16, from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., at Kahuku Park, on Paradise Circle in Hawaiian Ocean View Estates. Register Nov. 7 to 14. Athletic shoes are required. For more, call 929-9113.

REGISTER KEIKI, KINDERGARTEN THROUGH EIGHTH GRADE, FOR YARN SCARECROW, an Arts & Crafts Activity in the Ka‘ū District Gym's multi-purpose room on Wednesday, Nov. 14, from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. Registration is open Nov. 7 to 13. For more, call 928-3102.

KĪLAUEA MILITARY CAMP'S LAVA LOUNGE HOSTS OPEN MIC NIGHT on Wednesday, Nov. 7, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Comedians, singers, poets, and other performers are welcome to sign-up by calling 967-8365 after 4 p.m. Kīlauea Military Camp is located inside Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park; park entrance fees apply. Attendees and participants must be over 21 years old. Kīlauea Military Camp is open to all authorized Kīlauea Military Camp patrons and sponsored guests. Call 967-8371 for additional information. See kilaueamilitarycamp.com.

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

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 25
Hawai‘i Disability Legal Services, Thu., Oct. 25, 9-noon, Ocean View Community Center. ovcahi.org, 939-7033, ovcahawaii@gmail.com

Ka‘ū Community Children's Council, Thu., Oct. 25, 12-1:30pm, 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 Friends Feeding Friends, Thu., Oct. 25, 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

Craft Class, Thu., Oct. 25, 9:30-10:30am, PARENTS, Inc., Nā‘ālehu. For keiki 2-12 years old and caregivers. Free. 333-3460, lindsey@hawaiiparents.org

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26
Coffee Talk, Ka Wa‘a Kaulua: The Double-Hulled Canoe, Fri., Oct. 26, 9:30-11am, Kahuku Park, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Canoe sailor and builder Kiko Johnston-Kitazawa shares his knowledge and experience of the double-hulled canoe, which are still crafted and used today. Ka‘ū coffee, tea, and pastries available for purchase. Free. nps.gov/hawaiivolcanoes

Fall Costume Party, Fri., Oct. 26, 1:30-3:30pm, Nā‘ālehu Public Library. Snacks, activities and prizes. Free to all ages. 939-2442

Halloween Party, Fri, Oct. 26, 8pm-midnight, Kīlauea Military Camp's Lava Lounge, inside Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. $5 cover charge w/costume, $7 without. For patrons 21+. Call 967-8365 after 4pm for more. Park entrance fees may apply. kilaueamilitarycamp.com

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 27
VOTE: Deadline to submit General Election poll watcher names to Office of Elections or Clerk's Office, Sat., Oct. 27. elections.hawaii.gov

Craft Bazaar, Sat, Oct. 27, 9-3pm, Discovery Harbour Community Hall. Discovery Harbour Community Association, 929-9576

Paint Your Own Silk Scarf Workshop w/Patti Pease Johnson, Sat., Oct. 27, 9-12:30pm, Volcano Art Center's Ni‘aulani Campus, Volcano Village. Students paint and take home 8"x53" silk scarf using three colors of their choice. $45/VAC member, $50/non-member, plus $10 supply fee. Beginner and intermediate artists welcome. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

Nature & Culture: An Unseverable Relationship, Sat., Oct. 27, 9:30-11:30am, Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Moderate guided hike along the Palm Trail, approx. 2 miles. Free. nps.gov/hawaiivolcanoes

Will & Estate Seminar, Sat., Oct. 27, 10-3pm, Nā‘ālehu Assembly of God. 929-7278

Lava Evacuee Support Group Meeting, Sat., Oct. 27, 10-11am, Ocean View Community Center. Drinks and snacks provided. Reoccurring every last Saturday of the month hosted by CARE Hawai‘i, Inc. - Team Ahā, Crisis Counseling Program. 329-4817

Hands-On Fermented Foods Workshop: Sauerkraut and Kombucha w/Jasmine Silverstein of HeartBeet Foods, Sat., Oct. 27, 10-1pm, Volcano Art Center's Ni‘aulani Campus. $50/VAC member, $55/non-member. Pre-registration required. All supplies and organic ingredients provided. No cooking skills necessary. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

Tiki Mama's Road to the Sea Halloween Party will feature the Night Stalkers. Doors open at 4:20 p.m. on Saturday, Oct, 27, at 92-9122 Mamalahoa Hwy, Ocean View. Suggested donation is $10 plus a can of food. Tiki Mama's events support Hawaiʻi Food Bank.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 28
Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund Kamilo Point Clean-Up & Debris Survey with UH-Hilo's Marine Science Dept., Sun., Oct. 28. Call for meet up time at Wai‘ōhinu Park. BYO-4WD vehicle. Free; donations appreciated. kahakai.cleanups@gmail.com, mattie.hwf@gmail.com, wildhawaii.org

‘Ōhi‘a Lehua, Sun, Oct. 28, 9:30-11am, Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Learn about vital role of ‘ōhi‘a lehua in native Hawaiian forests, and many forms of ‘ōhi‘a tree and its flower, on this free, easy, one-mile walk. nps.gov/hawaiivolcanoes

MONDAY, OCTOBER 29
Free Zulu - Hip Hop Dance Class taught by Crystal Castillo and Spyder. Open to keiki in kindergarten through eighth grade, Monday, Oct. 29, from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., in the Ka‘ū District Gym's multi-purpose room. Register through Monday, Oct. 29. For more, call 928-3102.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 30
VOTE: Deadline to request General Election mail ballot from Clerk's Office, Tue., Oct. 30. elections.hawaii.gov

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

After Dark in the Park, Woven Strands & Braided Cords: Philosophy & Metaphysics in Pre-Contact Hawaiian Astronomy, Tue., Oct. 30, 7pm, Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Author and researcher Martha Noyes. Program co-sponsored by Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Call 985-6011. Free; donations help support park programs. Park entrance fees apply. nps.gov/hawaiivolcanoes

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 31
Kōkua Kupuna Project, Wed., Oct. 31, 9-11am, St. Jude's Episcopal Church, Ocean View. Seniors 60 years & older encouraged to attend, ask questions, and inquire about services offered through Legal Aid Society of Hawai‘i. Referral required from Hawai‘i County Office of Aging at 961-8626 for free legal services. Under 60, call 1-800-499-4302. More info: tahisha.despontes@legalaidhawaii.org, 329-3910 ext. 925. legalaidhawaii.org

Pā‘ani with Amy Ka‘awaloa- ‘Ike Hana No‘eau (Experience the Skillful Work), Wed., Oct. 31, 10-2pm, Kīlauea Visitor Center lānai, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Ka‘awaloa shares her knowledge about the Makahiki season, the ancient Hawaiian New Year festival, celebrated in three phases, one of which involved playing games. Co-sponsored by Hawai‘i Pacific Parks Association. Free; park entrance fees apply. 985-6011, nps.gov/hawaiivolcanoes

Kaʻū Octoberfest Trunk-or-Treat happens Wednesday, Oct. 31, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in the Ka‘ū District Gym's multi-purpose room. Register all ages Oct. 15 through 31. For more, call 928-3102. The event is looking for community members to offer treats and/or candy to keiki attending the event. Organized by Department of Parks and Recreation, Kaʻū District Gym, and Pāhala High & Elementary School, there will also be a vehicle decorating contest. Call 928-3102 for more.

ONGOING
VOTE: Early Walk-In Voting Open through Sat., Nov. 3. The early voting location for Kaʻū is at Pāhala Community Center, 96-1149 Kamani Street, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday - closed noon to 1 p.m.
     Local polls for the General Election open in precincts from Volcano through Kaʻū to Miloliʻi, from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Nov. 6. The nearest polling places are: Cooper Center, 19430 Wright Road in Volcano; Kaʻū High & Pāhala Elementary, 96-3150 Pikake Street; Nāʻālehu Elementary School, 95-5545 Mamalahoa Hwy; Ocean View Community Center, 92-8924 Leilani Circle; and Miloliʻi Halau Pavillion, off Hwy 11 in the Village of Miloliʻi. See more at elections.hawaii.gov.

Tūtū and Me tuition-free traveling preschool, for keiki birth to five years old and their caregivers, is temporarily moving their Pāhala site program for Oct. 23, 25, and 30, and Nov. 1, to the River of Life Assembly of God church. The group still meets Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. They will be back at Pāhala Community Center on Nov. 6. The Nāʻālehu location remains at Kauahaʻao Church in Waiʻōhinu, Mondays and Wednesdays, from 8:45 to 10:45 a.m.
     Tūtū and Me also offers home visits to aid caregivers with parenting tips and strategies, educational resources, and a compassionate, listening ear. Visits last 1.5 hours, two to four times a month, total of 12 visits. Snacks are provided.
     To enroll in either free program, fill out enrollment forms found at pidf.org/programs/tutu_and_me/enrollment_forms, or call Linda Bong at 929-8571, or Betty Clark at 464-9634 or eclark@pidfountation.org.

Public Access Room comes to Ocean View on Wednesday, Oct. 31. The non-partisan division of Hawaiʻi state legislature's legislative Reference Bureau will offer workshops. Free and open to the public, they focus on training for creating, following, and testifying on legislation.
     Two workshops will be offered. The first is geared towards newcomers, provides an introduction to the state legislative process to prepare new participants for the session. The second workshop is for those with an understanding of lawmaking. It will offer advanced advocacy tips on effective lobbying and often overlooked online resources. How-To guides, informational handouts, and other resources will be available.
     PAR's staff will be at Ocean View Ocean View Community Center on Wednesday, Oct. 31, at 92-8924 Leilani Circle. The Beginners Presentation will be from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.; the Advanced Presentation will be from 2:15 p.m. to 3 p.m. Additional presentations will be in Kona, Waimea, Pāhoa, and Hilo, from Oct. 29 through Nov. 1.
     For more, call toll free to 808-974-4000, ext. 7-0478, email Keanu Young at k.young@capitol.hawaii.gov, or go to lrbhawaii.org.

Hoʻokupu Hula No Kaʻū Cultural Festival happens Saturday, Nov. 3, at Pāhala Community Center, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Featuring Master Cultural Practitioners, Kukakuka (talk story), and many educational and cultural experiences with hands-on demonstrations. The festival is preceded by ceremonies at Punaluʻu Beach at dawn; at sunset, a ceremony will be held to honor ancestors; the festival will close with a ceremony at Makanau.
     Craft vendors, food vendors, and informational booths can still be applied for. Contact Kumu Hula Debbie Ryder at leionalani47@hotmail.com or (808) 649-9334 for an application. Last year brought over 1,000 spectators.
     The festival features hula performed by hālau from MexicoJapanWest Virginia, Oʻahu, South America, and Hawaiʻi Island. Traditional ethnic dance performances will come from Mexico, as well as the University of Hawaiʻi-Hilo Filipino Dancers. Taiko Drummers will perform. This year's headliner musical acts include Hoʻaikāne, Wailau Ryder, Keʻaiwa, Victor Chock, and Steven Sioloa.
     Sponsors include County Council member Maile David and community contributions through fundraising. See hookupukau.com.

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.

CU Hawaiʻi Federal Credit Union's Nāʻālehu Branch is taking applications for a Member Service Representative.
     The job description reads: Serve as a liaison between the member and the Credit Union. Provide a variety of financial services to members including savings, share drafts, and loan transactions, as well as sales of merchandise items: money orders, traveler's checks, postage stamps, etc., in accordance with Credit Union procedures and policies. CU Hawaiʻi offers medical, drug, dental, vision and retirement benefits.
     Mail, hand-deliver, or fax application to: CU Hawaii Federal Credit Union, Attn: Human Resources, 476 Hinano Street, Hilo, HI 96720, Fax (808) 935-7793. Applications can be downloaded online at cuhawaii.com/about-cu/career-opportunities.html

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Tuesday, October 23, 2018

Kaʻū News Briefs Tuesday, October 23, 2018

See the drone flight over East Island by Kristan McDonald of University of Hawaiʻi taken this summer.
Scientists, who stayed in shelters shown above, evacuated before Hurricane Walaka passed over in October.
FRENCH FRIGATE SHOALS EAST ISLAND WIPED OUT - That is the word from reports following satellite images and recent overflights to assess the damage of Category Five Hurricane Walaka, the second strongest Central Pacific hurricane on record. Walaka tore through Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument on Oct. 3. The images show East Island's sand gone, the housing for researchers washed away, leaving the 11-acre island 550 miles north of Honolulu mainly under water.
     Second in size only to Tern Island among the French Frigate Shoals, East Island accommodated nearly half of Hawaiʻi's threatened green sea turtles for nesting. They swam from the major Hawaiian Islands to lay eggs in the sand. Some of the turtles from the coast of Kaʻū, including Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach, may have been nesters on East Island. It was also home to endangered Hawaiian monk seals. About 30 percent of the seals gave birth there. Many rare seabirds also made their nests on East Island.
     The Coastal Geology Group from SOEST, University of Hawaiʻi, was investigating the age, origin, evolution, and status of East Island, and neighboring Gin Island, to improve understanding threats to their future by sea level rise.
Hurricane Walaka wiped out East Island in French Frigate Shoals, 
where more than 500 nesting green sea turtles were recorded each
season. This photo was taken in 2015. Photo from NOAA
     Athline Clark, superintendent of Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument, told the HuffPost that images of East Island are "startling." It will take some time to learn of the long term effects of the loss of the nesting and pupping grounds, she said.
     The National Monument announced that U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration staff flew over the monument over the weekend to photograph any impacts from the hurricane. A statement issued today confirms "alterations to Tern Island, and East Island appears to be under water."
     These images are being analyzed and a marine debris team working in the Monument will stop at French Frigate Shoals as part of a previously planned mission. "While there, they will do a preliminary assessment of the damage and impacts to wildlife. Monument co-managers are working to better understand the implications for cultural resources and wildlife, protected species and their habitat within the Monument. We will continue to monitor the species and islands to better assess the impacts from the hurricane. Based on the data, managers will determine next steps and management actions."
     According to its website, Papahānaumokuākea is cooperatively managed to ensure ecological integrity and achieve strong, long-term protection and perpetuation of Northwestern Hawaiian Island ecosystems, Native Hawaiian culture, and heritage resources for current and future generations. Four co-trustees - the Department of Commerce, Department of the Interior, State of Hawai‘i and Office of Hawaiian Affairs - protect this special place. Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument was inscribed as the first mixed (natural and cultural) UNESCO World Heritage Site in the United States in July 2010. For more, visit papahanaumokuakea.gov.
East Island before Hurricane Walaka, where rare birds and green sea turtles nested and Hawaiian
monk seals gave birth. Image from U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
East Island underwater after Hurricane Walaka, with scientists unsure if sand will return to host nesting turtles and
birds and monk seals that gave birth there. Image from U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
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COMPETITION IN AIR FLIGHTS TO HAWAIʻI, with Southwest aiming to take on Hawaiian and Alaska Airlines, has drawn the analysis of Silicon Valley Business Journal writer Jody Meacham. In his story released today, Meacham explains the challenges and extra costs of flying to the Hawaiian Islands. Meacham writes that "It's more like flying to Hungary or Hong Kong with that big ocean, in the middle of which the 50th state floats as the most isolated population center on the planet."
Hawaiian woman symbolizes
Hawaiian Airline's aloha spirit.
Alaskan native man symbolizes
the explorer in Alaskan Airlines.
     He notes that planes must have the range "to cover the 2,500 miles between the closest Mainland U.S. airport and Hawaiʻi, and not every aircraft that does is certified" to the Extended-range Twin-engine Operational Performance Standards. Those standards apply to flights that experience more than 60 minutes in flying time from any emergency landing place. He also notes that Hawaiʻi is an expensive vacation, with costly rental cars, hotels, and restaurants, compared to many other destinations.
     Southwest, which will land here soon, starting with Oʻahu and Maui, is setting up maintenance facilities in Hawaiʻi to accommodate planes from Oakland, San Jose, Sacramento, and San Diego. Southwest is by far the largest of the three airlines, with 741 planes. It is wrapping up its Extended-range certifications for the fleet to Hawaiʻi routes as soon as possible.
Southwest Airlines is set to
be the low cost carrier to
Hawaiʻi.
     Hawaiian, which serves 12 gateway cities on the mainland, will add a direct flight to Boston to accompany its direct flight to New York. It is changing out some of its 58 passenger planes.
     According to Meacham, Hawaiian expects to serve the vacation market and will refrain from providing absolute lowest fares, which are expected to be the main market for Southwest and Alaska.
     Alaska serves eight gateway cities and flies directly to the Big Island, Kauaʻi, Maui, and Oʻahu, with no plans to offer interisland service. Meacham writes that Alaska will match Southwest's low fares but will recoup the difference with higher priced tickets and more services in the front end of the planes. Alaska'a fleet, which includes planes acquired from Virgin America, is comprised of 160 planes.
     Read the entire story and see the illustrations at Silicon Valley Business Journal.

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WALK IN VOTING BEGAN THIS MORNING, leading up to General Election Day on Tuesday, Nov. 6. The Kaʻū location is at Pāhala Community Center, 96-1149 Kamani Street, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday - closed noon to 1 p.m. - through Saturday, Nov. 3. Registered voters can walk in to any early voting station, island wide, show a drivers license, and sign an affidavit to confirm location of your residence.
     Other locations and times are: Hilo at County of Hawaiʻi Aupuni Center's Conference Room, 101 Pauahi Street, Suite 1, Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Kona at West Hawaiʻi Civic Center's Community Room, Bldg G, 74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Highway, Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and Kamuela at Waimea Community Center, 65-1260 Kawaihae Road, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday, 8 a.m. to noon.
     The candidates on the ballot are:
     For Governor: Incumbent Democrat Gov. David Ige, Republican Rep. Andria Tupola, Non-Partisan Terrence Teruya, and Green Party Jim Brewer.
     For Lt. Governor: Democrat Sen. Josh Green, Republican Marissa Kerns, Non-Partisan Paul F. Robotti, and Green Party Renée Ing.
     For East Kaʻū State House of Representatives: Incumbent Democrat Richard Onishi and Libertarian Fred Fogel.
     For West Kaʻū State Senate: Democrat Drew Kanuha and Libertarian Michael Last.
     For Office of Hawaiian Affairs Trustees: Maui options are Keʻeaumoku Kapu or Carmen Hulu Lindsey. Oʻahu options are Kalei Akaka or Ester Kiaʻaina. At-Large options, for which three persons can be selected, are Lei Ahu Isa, William Aila Jr., Rowena Noelani Akana, Faye Hanohano, Brendon Kaleiʻaina Lee, and John D. Waihee IV.
     For Kaʻū's representative in the U.S. House: Incumbent Democrat Tulsi Gabbard and Republican Brian Evans.
     For Kaʻū's representative in the U.S. Senate: Incumbent Democrat Mazie Hirono and Republican Ron Curtis.
June Domondonn welcomes early walk in voters
to a chair and a voting booth at Pāhala
Community Center. Photo by Julia Neal
     The following issues are on the ballot:
     Whether to fund schools through investment property taxes. The constitutional amendment question is on the ballot but votes will not count, as the Hawaiʻi Supreme Court last week invalidated the measure, noting unclear wording.
     Whether to hold a Constitutional Convention. This measure requires a majority of "yes" votes in order to pass.
     How the public should be notified of salary increases for elected and appointed officials.
     Whether the public should be made aware of the fiscal impacts of amendments to the County Charter.
     The General Election is on Tuesday, Nov. 6. Local polls open in precincts from Volcano through Kaʻū to Miloliʻi, from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. The nearest polling places are: Cooper Center19430 Wright Road in Volcano; Kaʻū High & Pāhala Elementary, 96-3150 Pikake Street; Nāʻālehu Elementary School, 95-5545 Mamalahoa HwyOcean View Community Center, 92-8924 Leilani Circle; and Miloliʻi Halau Pavillion, off Hwy 11 in the Village of Miloliʻi.
     See more at elections.hawaii.gov.

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A KAʻŪ RESIDENT RECENTLY SUED the County of Hawaiʻi's Environmental Management Director and Wastewater Division Chief over plans for new sewage treatment facilities in Pāhala and Nāʻālehu. According to a story in this morning's Hawaiʻi Tribune Herald, Hilo Circuit Court has scheduled a hearing for Thursday at 8:30 a.m.
     The story by Nancy Cook Lauer states that Sandra Demoouruelle "is asking the court to require the county to turn over copies of draft environmental assessments she requested, and also to publish notices of the documents in the state's Environmental Notice."
The Honoka‘a wastewater treatment facility while it was under construction. 
A similar aerated lagoon system is being considered for Pāhala and Nāālehu
Photo from goodfellowbros.com
     The county recently published the Environmental Assessment and held public meetings on the Pāhala sewage treatment plant. Comments from the public regarding the Environmental Assessment are due to the state Department of Health's Office of Environmental Quality Control today. See oeqc2.doh.hawaii.gov/The
_Environmental_Notice/2018-09-23-TEN.pdf.
     According to the Hawaiʻi Tribune Herald,  "Demoruelle, who is representing herself without an attorney, wants the county to immediately quit paying consultants and contractors and halt all planning and development activities on the Nāʻālehu and Pāhala wastewater treatment plan until final environmental impact statements or environmental assessments are accepted." At public meetings and in her writings, Demourelle opposed a proposed location of Nāʻālehu sewage treatment plant next to Nāʻālehu School, which has also drawn opposition fromt he larger community. She also opposed the overall design of both Pāhala and Nāʻālehu plants, saying that less expensive septic system options are available. Representatives of the county have said that septic systems would be unworkable at both locations.
     The county is under notice from the Environmental Protection Agency that it will soon face daily fines if it does not close the old plantation Large Capacity Cesspools in both Nāʻālehu and Pāhala. See the Hawaii Tribune Herald story on the lawsuit.

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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, Oct 27, 1pm, BIIF Finals at Pāhala Ball Park - Pāhoa vs. Kaʻū

NEW and UPCOMING
MILITARY COLORING SHEETS, AN ARTS & CRAFTS ACTIVITY FOR KEIKI AGES 6 TO 12 YEARS OLD, at Kahuku Park, on Paradise Circle in Hawaiian Ocean View Estates, is held Friday, Nov. 9, from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Register Nov. 1 to 8. For more, call 929-9113.

TURKEY TROT, A SPECIAL EVENT FOR KEIKI PRE-KINDERGARTEN THROUGH SIXTH GRADE, is offered Wednesday, Nov. 21, from noon to 1:30 p.m. in the Ka‘ū District Gym's multi-purpose room. The program is available through a partnership with Pāhala Elementary School. Homeschooled children in the area are welcome to register and attend. Register Nov. 5 through 21. For more, call 928-3102.

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 25
Hawai‘i Disability Legal Services, Thu., Oct. 25, 9-noon, Ocean View Community Center. ovcahi.org, 939-7033, ovcahawaii@gmail.com

Ka‘ū Community Children's Council, Thu., Oct. 25, 12-1:30pm, 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 Friends Feeding Friends, Thu., Oct. 25, 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

Craft Class, Thu., Oct. 25, 9:30-10:30am, PARENTS, Inc., Nā‘ālehu. For keiki 2-12 years old and caregivers. Free. 333-3460, lindsey@hawaiiparents.org

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26
Coffee Talk, Ka Wa‘a Kaulua: The Double-Hulled Canoe, Fri., Oct. 26, 9:30-11am, Kahuku Park, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Canoe sailor and builder Kiko Johnston-Kitazawa shares his knowledge and experience of the double-hulled canoe, which are still crafted and used today. Ka‘ū coffee, tea, and pastries available for purchase. Free. nps.gov/hawaiivolcanoes

Fall Costume Party, Fri., Oct. 26, 1:30-3:30pm, Nā‘ālehu Public Library. Snacks, activities and prizes. Free to all ages. 939-2442

Halloween Party, Fri, Oct. 26, 8pm-midnight, Kīlauea Military Camp's Lava Lounge, inside Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. $5 cover charge w/costume, $7 without. For patrons 21+. Call 967-8365 after 4pm for more. Park entrance fees may apply. kilaueamilitarycamp.com

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 27
VOTE: Deadline to submit General Election poll watcher names to Office of Elections or Clerk's Office, Sat., Oct. 27. elections.hawaii.gov

Craft Bazaar, Sat, Oct. 27, 9-3pm, Discovery Harbour Community Hall. Discovery Harbour Community Association, 929-9576

Paint Your Own Silk Scarf Workshop w/Patti Pease Johnson, Sat., Oct. 27, 9-12:30pm, Volcano Art Center's Ni‘aulani Campus, Volcano Village. Students paint and take home 8"x53" silk scarf using three colors of their choice. $45/VAC member, $50/non-member, plus $10 supply fee. Beginner and intermediate artists welcome. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

Nature & Culture: An Unseverable Relationship, Sat., Oct. 27, 9:30-11:30am, Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Moderate guided hike along the Palm Trail, approx. 2 miles. Free. nps.gov/hawaiivolcanoes

Will & Estate Seminar, Sat., Oct. 27, 10-3pm, Nā‘ālehu Assembly of God. 929-7278

Lava Evacuee Support Group Meeting, Sat., Oct. 27, 10-11am, Ocean View Community Center. Drinks and snacks provided. Reoccurring every last Saturday of the month hosted by CARE Hawai‘i, Inc. - Team Ahā, Crisis Counseling Program. 329-4817

Hands-On Fermented Foods Workshop: Sauerkraut and Kombucha w/Jasmine Silverstein of HeartBeet Foods, Sat., Oct. 27, 10-1pm, Volcano Art Center's Ni‘aulani Campus. $50/VAC member, $55/non-member. Pre-registration required. All supplies and organic ingredients provided. No cooking skills necessary. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

Tiki Mama's Road to the Sea Halloween Party will feature the Night Stalkers. Doors open at 4:20 p.m. on Saturday, Oct, 27, at 92-9122 Mamalahoa Hwy, Ocean View. Suggested donation is $10 plus a can of food. Tiki Mama's events support Hawaiʻi Food Bank.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 28
Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund Kamilo Point Clean-Up & Debris Survey with UH-Hilo's Marine Science Dept., Sun., Oct. 28. Call for meet up time at Wai‘ōhinu Park. BYO-4WD vehicle. Free; donations appreciated. kahakai.cleanups@gmail.com, mattie.hwf@gmail.com, wildhawaii.org

‘Ōhi‘a Lehua, Sun, Oct. 28, 9:30-11am, Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Learn about vital role of ‘ōhi‘a lehua in native Hawaiian forests, and many forms of ‘ōhi‘a tree and its flower, on this free, easy, one-mile walk. nps.gov/hawaiivolcanoes

MONDAY, OCTOBER 29
Free Zulu - Hip Hop Dance Class taught by Crystal Castillo and Spyder. Open to keiki in kindergarten through eighth grade, Monday, Oct. 29, from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., in the Ka‘ū District Gym's multi-purpose room. Register through Monday, Oct. 29. For more, call 928-3102.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 30
VOTE: Deadline to request General Election mail ballot from Clerk's Office, Tue., Oct. 30. elections.hawaii.gov

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

After Dark in the Park, Woven Strands & Braided Cords: Philosophy & Metaphysics in Pre-Contact Hawaiian Astronomy, Tue., Oct. 30, 7pm, Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Author and researcher Martha Noyes. Program co-sponsored by Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Call 985-6011. Free; donations help support park programs. Park entrance fees apply. nps.gov/hawaiivolcanoes

ONGOING
VOTE: Early Walk-In Voting Open through Sat., Nov. 3. The early voting location for Kaʻū is at Pāhala Community Center, 96-1149 Kamani Street, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday - closed noon to 1 p.m.
     Local polls for the General Election open in precincts from Volcano through Kaʻū to Miloliʻi, from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Nov. 6. The nearest polling places are: Cooper Center, 19430 Wright Road in Volcano; Kaʻū High & Pāhala Elementary, 96-3150 Pikake Street; Nāʻālehu Elementary School, 95-5545 Mamalahoa Hwy; Ocean View Community Center, 92-8924 Leilani Circle; and Miloliʻi Halau Pavillion, off Hwy 11 in the Village of Miloliʻi. See more at elections.hawaii.gov.

Tūtū and Me tuition-free traveling preschool, for keiki birth to five years old and their caregivers, is temporarily moving their Pāhala site program for Oct. 23, 25, and 30, and Nov. 1, to the River of Life Assembly of God church. The group still meets Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. They will be back at Pāhala Community Center on Nov. 6. The Nāʻālehu location remains at Kauahaʻao Church in Waiʻōhinu, Mondays and Wednesdays, from 8:45 to 10:45 a.m.
     Tūtū and Me also offers home visits to aid caregivers with parenting tips and strategies, educational resources, and a compassionate, listening ear. Visits last 1.5 hours, two to four times a month, total of 12 visits. Snacks are provided.
     To enroll in either free program, fill out enrollment forms found at pidf.org/programs/tutu_and_me/enrollment_forms, or call Linda Bong at 929-8571, or Betty Clark at 464-9634 or eclark@pidfountation.org.

Public Access Room comes to Ocean View on Wednesday, Oct. 31. The non-partisan division of Hawaiʻi state legislature's legislative Reference Bureau will offer workshops. Free and open to the public, they focus on training for creating, following, and testifying on legislation.
     Two workshops will be offered. The first is geared towards newcomers, provides an introduction to the state legislative process to prepare new participants for the session. The second workshop is for those with an understanding of lawmaking. It will offer advanced advocacy tips on effective lobbying and often overlooked online resources. How-To guides, informational handouts, and other resources will be available.
     PAR's staff will be at Ocean View Ocean View Community Center on Wednesday, Oct. 31, at 92-8924 Leilani Circle. The Beginners Presentation will be from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.; the Advanced Presentation will be from 2:15 p.m. to 3 p.m. Additional presentations will be in Kona, Waimea, Pāhoa, and Hilo, from Oct. 29 through Nov. 1.
     For more, call toll free to 808-974-4000, ext. 7-0478, email Keanu Young at k.young@capitol.hawaii.gov, or go to lrbhawaii.org.

Hoʻokupu Hula No Kaʻū Cultural Festival happens Saturday, Nov. 3, at Pāhala Community Center, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Featuring Master Cultural Practitioners, Kukakuka (talk story), and many educational and cultural experiences with hands-on demonstrations. The festival is preceded by ceremonies at Punaluʻu Beach at dawn; at sunset, a ceremony will be held to honor ancestors; the festival will close with a ceremony at Makanau.
     Craft vendors, food vendors, and informational booths can still be applied for. Contact Kumu Hula Debbie Ryder at leionalani47@hotmail.com or (808) 649-9334 for an application. Last year brought over 1,000 spectators.
     The festival features hula performed by hālau from MexicoJapanWest Virginia, Oʻahu, South America, and Hawaiʻi Island. Traditional ethnic dance performances will come from Mexico, as well as the University of Hawaiʻi-Hilo Filipino Dancers. Taiko Drummers will perform. This year's headliner musical acts include Hoʻaikāne, Wailau Ryder, Keʻaiwa, Victor Chock, and Steven Sioloa.
     Sponsors include County Council member Maile David and community contributions through fundraising. See hookupukau.com.

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.

CU Hawaiʻi Federal Credit Union's Nāʻālehu Branch is taking applications for a Member Service Representative.
     The job description reads: Serve as a liaison between the member and the Credit Union. Provide a variety of financial services to members including savings, share drafts, and loan transactions, as well as sales of merchandise items: money orders, traveler's checks, postage stamps, etc., in accordance with Credit Union procedures and policies. CU Hawaiʻi offers medical, drug, dental, vision and retirement benefits.
     Mail, hand-deliver, or fax application to: CU Hawaii Federal Credit Union, Attn: Human Resources, 476 Hinano Street, Hilo, HI 96720, Fax (808) 935-7793. Applications can be downloaded online at cuhawaii.com/about-cu/career-opportunities.html

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