Ka‘ū News Briefs, Wednesday, November 27, 2019

Micronesians are among those who can travel freely to Hawaiʻi, live here and receive many U.S. public services.
Rep. Ed case is calling for Congress to extend these services which have been in place since 1986. He and Rep.
Tulsi Gabbard ask for the federal government to reimburse Hawaiʻi. Photo from Grass Roots Institute of Hawaiʻi

REIMBURSE COSTS OF PUBLIC SERVICES FOR MARSHALLESE and other migrants to Hawaiʻi from Pacific islands covered by the federal Compacts of Free Association. That is the proposal from Congressman Ed Case, who formerly represented Kaʻū in Congress and now represents urban Oʻahu. The COFA covers islanders who come from Republic of the Marshall Islands, Republic of Palau, and Federated States of Micronesia. Together these islands form the Freely Associated States.

     The Compacts of Free Association between United States and Freely Associated States were approved in 1986 and give the U.S. exclusive access to land for military bases in exchange for the islanders to be able to travel and live in the U.S., and receive public services. The agreement is undergoing renegotiation to extend it. Under COFA, these Pacific islanders can live and work in the United States - and participate in public education, health, and other benefits - and the costs to Hawaiʻi and other jurisdictions providing services is supposed to be addressed through federal payments, said Case is a statement released today. "Referred to as Compact Impact aid, the funds have not covered the actual costs to affected jurisdictions." Many of these islanders live in Kaʻū and send their children to local schools here.

Islanders from the Marianas, Palu, Federated States of Micronesia, and the Marshall Islands are covered
by the Compacts of Free Association, which allow them to freely travel here and receive services, in
exchange for the U.S. government maintaining exclusive access to land for military operations.

     Case - joined by Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, Guam Delegate Michael San Nicolas, and Northern Mariana Islands Delegate Gregorio Sablan - wrote a letter to the Secretaries of Defense, State, and the Interior, the federal departments most directly involved in FAS matters. The group called on the Administration to "explicitly address full and adequate Compact aid to all disproportionately affected jurisdictions" as part of the renegotiation. COFA renewals must be approved by Congress.

     Said Case, "Unfortunately, the related costs of FAS migrants residing in Hawai‘i, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and Samoa have ballooned far beyond the assistance provided by our federal government, and the affected jurisdictions can no longer reasonably be expected to bear the burden of this federal responsibility.

     Case cited as an example that in 2003, when the RMI and FSM Compacts were renewed, the U.S. Census Bureau estimated around 20,000 FAS migrants in these four jurisdictions. "As of 2018, that estimate has grown to more than 38,000 FAS migrants, with the vast majority in Hawai‘i and Guam," said Case. 

     Case said that not only has the total number of migrants grown over the years, the but so have the public services cost of each migrant. "For Fiscal Year 2018 alone, the State of Hawai‘i estimated costs of about $198 million for direct services to support FAS migrants for primarily health and education, and Guam reported more than $147 million in such costs for Fiscal Year 2017."

     In contrast, Case pointed out, "for Fiscal Year 2019 Compact impact aid, the U.S. Department of Interior distributed just $16.8 million for Guam, $2.3 million for the Northern Mariana Islands, $23,000 for American Samoa – and $14.8 million for Hawai‘i.

     "In short, the actual impact of the Compacts on our jurisdictions far exceeds existing federal assistance – and that gap is growing and can only be expected to continue to grow," said Case. "As a result, our state and territorial governments bear a disproportionate responsibility for the Compacts in the form of the significant and growing financial costs associated with FAS migrants.

     "While we welcome the important and growing contributions of FAS migrant communities in our jurisdictions and recognize the national security value of the Compacts, the status quo is financially unsustainable for our jurisdictions. Without corresponding increases of guaranteed federal assistance to fully reimburse our jurisdictions being included as part and parcel of the Congressional Compact extension approval process, we will find it difficult to support Compact renewal," said Case.

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OPPOSITION TO INDUSTRIAL SOLAR INSTALLATIONS that would cover 26 lots in three Ocean View neighborhood is based, in part, on the project being proposed eight years ago and the changing economics of affordable electricity in the meantime, according to complaints filed with the state Public Utilities Commission. See the Tuesday, Nov. 26 Kaʻū News Briefs.
     In 2011, SPI Energy's predecessors, Solar Hub Utilities and RevoluSun, were admitted to the Feed in Tarrif Program to produce electricity to be sold to Hawaiʻi Electric Light Co, based on their declaration that they would complete Ocean View installations between August 2012 and January 2013. It was a time when incentives were abundant for solar projects, including pricing that was higher than now.

     The Ocean View community only became aware of Solar Hub's plans via a news report in West Hawaiʻi Today in May, 2013. At that time, readers were told that construction "could begin as soon as 60 - 90 days." However, at a meeting with Solar Hub's spokesman,Pat Shudak, the community voiced objection to the project that would place lotline to lot-line solar installation within neighborhoods.
     During two years of inactivity, from May 2013 to June 2015, residents assumed that the project had fallen through. However, on June 15, 2015, Hawaiʻi Electric Light Co. reserved the Ocean View Community Center to announce plans for a new substation and transmission line to service the project. At that meeting, a HELCO spokesperson said that the project would include eight more sites and would be built by SPI Energy. She said that it was a "done deal."
     Community resistance to the project grew, with meetings, numerous letters to the PUC, a petition, a referendum, video news and regular press, magazine, and blog reports. To date, no site work has been done by SPI Energy. However, the company has asked that complaints, opposing the project be dismissed. Ocean View residents responded that the cost of electricity produced by the project would be higher than other sources and despoil their neighborhoods. See yesterday's Kaʻū News Briefs.

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ENDING HOMELESSNESS AND HOUSING POVERTY in the U.S. is the goal of legislation introduced by Senators Mazie Hirono, Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), and Cory Booker (D-NJ). The Pathway to Stable and Affordable Housing for All Act lays out a ten-year investment in federal housing and homelessness programs that the National Low Income Housing Coalition estimates would effectively end homelessness and housing poverty in the United States, stated Hirono in a press release. "The Act would provide a long-term, dependable level of investment in four federal housing programs that have proven successful in combating homelessness and housing poverty across the country: Emergency Solutions Grants, Continuum of Care Grants, the Housing Trust Fund, and tenant-based rental assistance," said a statement from Hirono.

Hawaiʻi is in red, among highest need for affordable homes. See
National Low Income Housing Coalition Report on Hawaiʻi.

    She said that "Communities and service providers in Hawaiʻi and across the country do the best they can with the resources they have to help our neighbors in need. However, federal dollars simply don't go far enough. At the same time, too many workers and families struggle to get and keep affordable rental housing. The Pathway to Stable and Affordable Housing for All Act rejects the divisive policies of the Trump Administration, and lays out the sustained, 10-year federal investment that on-the-ground providers and experts estimate is needed to help get those most in need off the street and into supportive, safe housing quickly and expand affordable housing stock for the long-term."

     Said Gillibrand, "No one should ever be without a place to call home, but there are far too many families in New York and across the country facing homelessness. Access to safe and affordable housing should be a basic human right in the United States."

     The Act aims to help states and organizations get those experiencing homelessness into shelter quickly and efficiently, and expand access to safe, affordable housing. Emergency Solutions and Continuum of Care would each receive $10 billion more per year. The Housing Trust Fund would receive $40 billion more per year. Tenant-based rental assistance (vouchers) would be fully funded.

     The Pathways to Stable and Affordable Housing for All Act has the support of the National Low Income Housing Coalition and the National Alliance to End Homelessness.

     Diane Yentel, President and CEO of the National Low Income Housing Coalition, said, "Through robust investments in the national Housing Trust Fund, housing vouchers, and homeless assistance grants, Senator Hirono's bill addresses the underlying, systemic causes of the affordable housing and homelessness crisis: the widening gap between incomes and housing costs and severe shortage of homes affordable and available to the lowest-income people. We must build the political will to enact this important bill."

     Nan Roman, President and CEO of the National Alliance to End Homelessness, said, the Act "will address the critical need for more help for those in our nation who are struggling to keep roofs over their heads. The bill recognizes that homelessness results largely from the lack of affordable housing – while also acknowledging that until the national gap in affordable housing is filled, short-term assistance will be needed by people who have become homeless. It provides to-scale support for the most effective homeless programs, the Continuum of Care Program and the Emergency Solutions Grant Program. Similarly, it increases support for highly effective housing programs: the Housing Choice Voucher Program and the National Housing Trust Fund. The National Alliance to End Homelessness thanks the Senator for her leadership in meeting the needs of some of the nation's most vulnerable people."

     The release from Hirono states that, in September, the Trump Administration "took aim at those experiencing homelessness in the US, releasing a report targeting a handful of states and cities and offering policy responses like increasing policing of this vulnerable community and rounding up and relocating homeless communities in an 'out of sight, out of mind' approach. At the time, the president said that homeless individuals were taking over 'our best highways and our best streets' and that 'sick' homeless individuals were ruining US cities. On Nov. 14, the executive director of the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness was ousted from the role he's held since 2015.

     "On top of targeting those already experiencing homelessness, the Administration has repeatedly taken steps that would increase the number of families and individuals living in unstable housing situations and those at risk of homelessness. Every budget they have put forward zeros out critical programs aimed at alleviating homelessness and housing poverty. Congress has rejected these cuts, which would dismantle our current federal homelessness and affordable housing response framework and leave already-under resourced states, cities, and service providers with less tools to address homelessness and the affordable housing crisis," said Hirono.

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STATE REP. RICHARD CREAGAN WILL DISCUSS HIS 2020 LEGISLATIVE AGENDA at the Hawaiʻi Farmers Union United, Kaʻū Chapter, meeting on Saturday, Nov. 30, 10 a.m. at Pāhala Plantation House. Creagan is Chair of the state House of Representatives Committee on Agriculture. All persons working or interested in agriculture are invited. A potluck lunch will be served.

     HFUU Pres. Matt Drayer, a farmer and chef in Wood Valley, said that plans are being made by the organization for 2020, including agriculture education, events, and reviewing legislation and issues before the county, state, and federal policymakers that affect Kaʻū.

     For more information on HFUU, call Drayer at 808-339-8737.

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

See public Kaʻū events, meetings, entertainment. 

See Kaʻū exercise, meditation, daily, and weekly events. 

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

and facebook.com/kaucalendar.

See monthly and weekly Kaʻū and Volcano Events, Meetings, Entertainment, Exercise, and Meditation at kaucalendar.com.

UPCOMING

THURSDAY, NOV. 28

Free Thanksgiving Dinner, Thursday, Nov. 28, noon-3p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Thanksgiving Day Buffet, Thursday, Nov. 28, 2-6p.m., Kīlauea Military Camp's Crater Rim Cafe. Traditional Thanksgiving dinner with all the fixin's. $23.95/adult, $13.95/child (ages 6-11). Open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. 967-8356, kilaueamilitarycamp.com

FRIDAY, NOV. 29

Holiday Challenge, Friday, Nov. 29, through beginning of Jan. 2020. Community invited to come out and vote for their favorite decorated cottage/activity. Open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. 967-8371, kilaueamilitarycamp.com

12th Annual Kamahalo Craft Fair, Friday, Nov. 29, 9a.m.-4p.m., and Saturday, Nov. 30, 9a.m.-3p.m., The Cooper Center, Volcano Village. Food vendors, homegrown products, and quality homemade crafts for sale. 936-9705, thecoopercenter.org

Kahuku Coffee Talk: Creatures that Have Evolved in the Dark, Friday, Nov. 29, 9:30-11a.m., Kahuku Unit Visitor Contact Station. Join local experts to learn about lava tubes and some interesting animals that call them home. Free. nps.gov/havo

Volcano Village Artists Hui 33rd Annual Studio Tour & Sale, Friday, Nov. 29, Saturday, Nov. 30, and Sunday, Dec. 1, 10a.m.-4p.m., map available at volcanovillage
artistshui.com. Meet artists and view wide variety of artwork on display and available for purchase.

Program Preview Exhibit, Friday, Nov. 29, and Saturday, Nov. 30, 10a.m.-4p.m., Volcano Art Center. See what programs, events, and exhibits VAC has lined up for 2020. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

SATURDAY, NOV. 30

Hawaiʻi Farmers Union United, Kaʻū Chapter, meeting on Saturday, Nov. 30 from 10 a.m. at Pāhala Plantation House. All persons working or interested in agriculture are invited. A potluck lunch will be served. Learn of plans for 2020, including agriculture education, events, and reviewing legislation and issues before the county, state, and federal policymakers that affect Kaʻū. Rep. Richard Creagan, Chair of the state House of Representatives Committee on Agriculture, will announce his 2020 legislative goals. For more information on HFUU, call Pres. Matt Drayer at 808-339-8737.

AdvoCATS, Wednesday, Nov. 30, 7a.m.-4:30p.m., Ocean
View Community Center. Free spay/neuter for cats. 895-9283, advocatshawaii.org

Palm Trail, Sunday, Nov. 30, 9:30-12:30p.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, moderately difficult hike - 2.6 mile loop. nps.gov/havo

Girls Nite Out Band, Saturday, Nov. 30, 7-10p.m., Kīlauea Military Camp's Lava Lounge, in HVNP. $5 cover charge. Open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. kilaueamilitarycamp.com

SUNDAY, DEC. 1

Pu‘u Lokuana, Sunday, Dec. 1, 9:30-11a.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, short, moderately difficult, 0.4 mile hike. nps.gov/havo

Ham Radio Potluck Picnic, Sunday, Dec. 1 – 1st Sunday, monthly – noon-2p.m., Manukā State Park. Anyone interested in learning about ham radio is welcome to attend. View sites.google.com/
site/southpointarc or sites.
google.com/viewith southhawaiiares/home. Rick Ward, 938-3058

MONDAY, DEC. 2

Cultural Understanding through Art and the Environment: Dietrich Varez Block Printing with Desiree Moana Cruz, Monday, Dec. 2, 11a.m.-1p.m., Volcano Art Center. No registration required. $10 per person supply fee. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

Ocean View Volunteer Fire Department Mtg., Monday, Dec. 2, 4-6p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Name that Holiday Tune Registration, Dec. 2-5, Kahuku Park. Program takes place Friday, Dec. 6, 3-4p.m. Ages 6-14. 929-9113, hawaiicounty.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation/recreation

TUESDAY, DEC. 3

Hawai‘i County Council Mtgs., Tuesday, Dec. 3 (Committees), Wednesday, Dec. 4 (Council), Hilo. Ka‘ū residents can participate via videoconferencing at Nā‘ālehu State Office Building. Agendas at hawaiicounty.gov.

Ka‘ū Homeschool Co–op Group, Tuesday, Dec. 3 and 17, 9a.m., Ocean View Community Center. Parent-led homeschool activity and social group, building community in Ka‘ū. Call to confirm location before attending. Laura Roberts, 406-249-3351

Empower Meeting, Tuesday, Dec. 3 and 17 – every other Tuesday, monthly – 1p.m., PARENTS, Inc. office, Nā‘ālehu. Empowering girls group. Registration required. Diana, 935-4805

Ka‘ū Coffee Growers Mtg., Tuesday, Dec. 3, 6-8p.m., Pāhala Community Center.

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 4

Holiday Ornament Registration, Dec. 4-16, Kahuku Park. Program takes place Wednesday, Dec. 18, 3-4p.m. Ages 6-14. 929-9113, hawaiicounty.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation/recreation

ONGOING

Vote for Izaiah "Bobby" Pilanca-Emmsley for the Wedemeyer Award - Two-Way Player of the Year, at khon2.com/uncategorized/vote-2019-cover2-hawaii-high-school-football-awards/. Voting remains open through Monday, Nov. 25. The winners will be announced on Thanksgiving by the L.A. Rams. Pilanca-Emmsley is the only candidate from Kaʻū. Fans can vote for six of the seven awards presented.

Vendor Booth Space is Available for the Kamahalo Craft Fair. The 12th annual event will be held Thanksgiving weekend, Friday, Nov. 29, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday, Nov. 30, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Cooper Center. Booths are open for crafters with quality homemade and homegrown products. Food vendors must prepare all food items in a certified kitchen and must have a Department of Health permit displayed prominently at their booth. Application online at thecoopercenter.org. Direct questions to 936-9705 or kilaueatutu@gmail.com.

Tūtū & Me Home Visiting Program is a free service to Pāhala families with keiki, birth to five years old. This caregiver support program offers those taking care of young keiki "a compassionate listening ear, helpful parenting tips and strategies, fun and exciting activities, and wonderful educational resources" from Tūtū & Me Traveling Preschool. Home visits are one hour in length, two to four times per month, for 12 to 15 visits. Snacks are provided. See pidfoundation.org or call 808-938-1088.

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Ka‘ū News Briefs, Tuesday, November 26, 2019

Many visitors are expected at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park during the holiday season. See tips from the Park 
on how to avoid the crowds and have a good visit, below. NPS photo

VOLCANO GOLF COURSE IS IN PLAY, with tee times between 7 a.m. and 2 p.m. daily, following the fire that burned the retail and administration portion of the country club building on Thursday, Nov. 14, with extensive smoke damage in the restaurant area. The new check-in point is within the golf cart shed.

     The property is owned by Kamehameha Schools and operated by a Japanese company. Its spokesperson on island said the hope is to raze the building, and use insurance money, in part, to rebuild the facility. In the meantime, the undamaged greens and fairways with their large ʻōhiʻa and other native trees remains unscarred.

Golf course operators at Volcano Golf & Country Club are hoping
 to raze the building where smoke damage extends to the restaurant. 
Tee times remain from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily. Photo by Julia Neal

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AN INDUSTRIAL SOLAR DEVELOPER is renewing efforts for a green light from the state Public Utilities Commission to install solar farms among houses in three Ocean View neighborhoods. The plan is to build a 6.5 megawatt installation on 26 lots, precluding their use for houses. The project would require cutting down native ʻōhiʻa trees and installing industrial fences with signs reading "Danger" and "High Voltage" and "Keep Out."

     The multi-national corporation, SPI Energy, headquartered in Hong Kong, recently asked the PUC to dismiss a formal complaint filed with the PUC by two Ranchos residents over three years ago. The complaint alleged that the utility companies, HECO and HELCO, did not hold the developers of the

6.5 megawatt solar project in Ocean View in compliance with the Feed in Tariff (FIT) program – the foundation of its permit request. SPI Energy controls 19 shell companies that leased the 26 sites in Ocean View for its project.

     The complaint was filed in August 2016. In September 2016, then PUC Chair Randy Iwase suspended an application by HELCO for a high-voltage overhead transmission line to service the project, until the complaint could be resolved. Iwase told the Honolulu Star Advertiser at the time: "Nobody is going to move on the FIT project. We have suspended any action on the application pending a review or an investigation or resolution of the complaint filed by the (Annie and Peter) Bosteds.

Ranchos residents said they oppose leveling of the landscape for 

industrial solar farms. Photo by Annie Bosted

     Iwase was also quoted as saying that the FIT program is obsolete because the cost is too high.

     Jeff Ono, then state Consumer Advocate, wrote: "It is apparent that the 26 solar project owners effectively 'gamed' the FIT process in order to avoid going through the more rigorous competitive bidding framework." He added that the original compensation rates of the projects are no longer in the public interest.

     The Kaʻū Calendar has established that if the PUC were to dismiss the Bosteds' complaint, then ratepayers would pay 23.8 cents a kilowatt-hour for daytime-only power from the Ocean View project. A solar project in Oʻahu, that includes battery storage, is selling power for less than 8 cents per kilowatt hour. Hawaiʻi has the highest electricity rates in the nation, and the state's ratepayers have paid 280 percent more per kilowatt hour than the U.S. average over the past ten years, according to ValueAct Capital.

     Since 2016, the PUC's three commissioners and Consumer Advocate are new. Commissioners are James P. Griffin, Chair, Jennifer M. Potter, and Leodoloff "Leo" R. Asuncion. The former chief executive of Hawaiʻi Electric Light Co, Jay Ignacio, has retired. The former spokesman for SPI Energy has also been replaced.

     Complainant Peter Bosted told The Kaʻū Calendar: "I see this as a last-ditch effort by the developers to persuade the PUC to not investigate how HECO and HELCO mismanaged the FIT program to the advantage of the developers and to the detriment of the ratepayers.

     "We have been patiently waiting for our day in court. We have presented our case according to the PUC's schedule and are waiting for the PUC's considered verdict. SPI Energy does not want that.

A Kona solar farm similar to the ones planned for 26 sites in three Ocean View neighborhoods.
Photo by Annie Bosted

     "They want the PUC to end the case on their say so. Their 130-page memo is written as though SPI Energy is a defendant, not an intervenor. We are faulted for not stating a claim 'under which relief can be granted.' In other words, we won't be bought off. HECO and HELCO are the respondents, so if anyone should be negotiating, it's them, not SPI Energy.

     "We want this case to be scrutinized and the FIT Program to be ended. SPI Energy obviously wants to make money from the over-priced lemon they bought," added Bosted.

     Former President of the Ranchos Road Maintenance Corporation, Mats Fogelvik, told The Kaʻū Calendar that time has not mellowed the Ocean View community's opposition to the project. "Everyone I know is dead against this boondoggle project. If SPI tries to build here, they will have to contend with sabotage and grass roots resistance bar none.

     "Other solar developers are building two huge solar projects near Waikaloa, and the power from that will cost ratepayers about 7 cents to 8 cents a kWh. Those developers reached out to the Waikaloa community in meetings, and received the community's prior approval.

     "Here, HELCO and SPI Energy colluded to keep us all in the dark until they needed our approval for the overhead transmission line. And even then we were told that it was a 'done deal' and resistance would be futile. The Bosteds' complaint says otherwise. I really hope the PUC scrutinizes the case," added Fogelvik. See more history of the project in tomorrow's Kaʻū Calendar News Briefs.

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Avoiding the crowded summit area between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. is one tip from Park rangers on how to
have a good visit during the holiday season. NPS photo

AVOID CROWDS AT HAWAIʻI VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK this holiday season by following tips from the Park. Hit the park website before hitting the trail. Avoid the crowded summit area between 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

     The website, nps.gov/hawaiivolcanoes, is the first stop all visitors and tour operators before coming to the Park. Recent updates includes the Plan Your Adventure landing page that features tips to avoid crowds, off-the-beaten-path destinations, what not to do, and how to stay safe. 

     Most visitors stop at Kīlauea Visitor Center for information, to watch the park movie, or to join a ranger-guided hike, but changes are coming to serve visitors during the holiday surge, according to a statement from the Park.
      The visitor center and the Park store, run by Hawai‘i Pacific Parks Association, will open an hour earlier, at 8 a.m., and close at 5 p.m., starting Friday, Dec. 20 through Monday, Jan. 6, 2020. Some ranger programs will relocate to the coast and Chain of Craters Road destinations, like Mauna Ulu. The 20-minute park movie, Born of Fire, Born of the Sea, will only be shown before 10 a.m. and after 2 p.m., with six shows a day through Jan. 18, 2020. A shorter orientation film will replace it.

     Said Acting Superintendent Rhonda Loh, "We plan for and experience robust visitation every winter season, but the closure of Jaggar Museum and Kīlauea Overlook due to the destructive 2018 eruption has dramatically reduced the number of parking stalls. We don't want to turn anyone away from visiting the park, so we're relying on visitors to take our advice, arrive earlier, explore less-visited areas, and drive safely."

     Top Ranger Tips for a happy holiday visit to Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park are: 

Packed parking areas and lots of traffic between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. are
expected at the Park during the holiday season, especially
around Christmas and the New Year. NPS photo

     Turn Left for Adventure and Less Crowded Trails. When you enter the park, get in the left lane, and turn left at the entrance station to drive down the 19-mile Chain of Craters Road towards the Park's dramatic lava-covered coast. Stop at crater pullouts along the way, hike along the Mauna Ulu fissure eruption, connect to Hawaiian culture at Pu‘u Loa Petroglyphs, and enjoy scenic overlooks and the Hōlei Sea Arch. 

     Kīlauea Iki Trail. If Kīlauea Iki is on your must-hike list, set your alarm or set your sights on a different trail. This newly reopened four-mile loop trail is the most popular hike in the park and parking at the trailhead is jam-packed after 9 a.m. Park at Devastation Trail parking lot instead. Adding another 2.2 miles to your trek will subtract the stress. Plan to hit the trail by 7 a.m., and be out by 10 a.m. 

     Sunrise at the Summit. Watching sunrise over Kīlauea caldera from Steaming Bluff is a mystical experience, and all the proof you need that Kīlauea is still very much an active volcano. It's also an ideal time to ponder the summit collapse that occurred during the 2018 eruption. The Park is open 24 hours, 365 days a year, except for Kahuku Unit – see holiday schedule and more info on Kahuku activities on yesterday's blog. 

     Mauna Loa Road is well worth exploring during peak hours, especially in good weather. Kīpukapuaulu offers an easy, forested hike, and the views and birding are excellent along the way to the Mauna Loa Overlook at 6,662 feet.

     Visit Kahuku. Kahuku is free, never crowded, and is open Wednesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Located on the mauka (inland) side of Highway 11 near mile marker 70.5 in Ka‘ū. 

     Leave your drone at home. Recreational drones are not allowed in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. They disturb wildlife, interfere with park operations, and bother people trying to enjoy natural sounds.  

     Take the Pono Pledge. Vow to stay safe, and to ensure your Park's incredible geologic, natural and cultural resources are here for future generations to behold by taking the Pono Pledge. Pono means "the right thing to do" in Hawaiian. Be pono!

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COASTAL FLOODING IS POSSIBLE through Friday along Kaʻū shores, warns the National Weather Service. All shores of the main Hawaiian Islands could be impacted due to unusually high water levels. The greatest potential for coastal flooding impacts will be during the peak high tides, which will occur before sunrise during the early morning hours. Visit tidesandcurrents.noaa.gov for more specific information about forecast tides and water levels.
     Impacts of the high tides, up to six inches above normal, may include flooding of beaches that are normally dry, salt water inundation of typically vulnerable low-lying roads, docks boat ramps, and other coastal infrastructure. The potential for coastal flooding will diminish late in the week as the peak daily tides diminish.

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

See public Kaʻū events, meetings, entertainment. 

See Kaʻū exercise, meditation, daily, and weekly events. 

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

and facebook.com/kaucalendar.

See monthly and weekly Kaʻū and Volcano Events, Meetings, Entertainment, Exercise, and Meditation at kaucalendar.com.

UPCOMING

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 27

Pom Pom Wreath Registration, Nov. 27 - Dec. 4, program takes place Tuesday, Dec. 10, 3-4p.m. Ages 6-14. 929-9113, hawaiicounty.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation/recreation

‘Ulu Maika Demonstration, Wednesday, Nov. 27, 10a.m.-noon, Kīlauea Visitor Center lānai. Play ‘ulu maika – which resembles American bowling but uses two stakes and a disc-shaped tone instead of pins and a ball – to celebrate the annual makahiki season. Free; park entrance fees apply. 985-6101, nps.gov/havo/

Kōkua Kupuna Project, Wednesday, Nov. 27 – last Wednesday, monthly – 9-11a.m., St. Jude's Episcopal Church, Ocean View. Seniors 60 years and older encouraged to attend, ask questions, and inquire about services offered through Legal Aid Society of Hawai‘i – referral required, 961-8626, for free legal services. Under 60, call 1-800-499-4302. More info: 329-3910 ext. 925. tahisha.despontes@legalaidhawaii.org. legalaidhawaii.org

THURSDAY, NOV. 28

Free Thanksgiving Dinner, Thursday, Nov. 28, noon-3p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Thanksgiving Day Buffet, Thursday, Nov. 28, 2-6p.m., Kīlauea Military Camp's Crater Rim Cafe. Traditional Thanksgiving dinner with all the fixin's. $23.95/adult, $13.95/child (ages 6-11). Open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. 967-8356, kilaueamilitarycamp.com

FRIDAY, NOV. 29

Holiday Challenge, Friday, Nov. 29, through beginning of Jan. 2020. Community invited to come out and vote for their favorite decorated cottage/activity. Open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. 967-8371, kilaueamilitarycamp.com

12th Annual Kamahalo Craft Fair, Friday, Nov. 29, 9a.m.-4p.m., and Saturday, Nov. 30, 9a.m.-3p.m., The Cooper Center, Volcano Village. Food vendors, homegrown products, and quality homemade crafts for sale. 936-9705, thecoopercenter.org

Kahuku Coffee Talk: Creatures that Have Evolved in the Dark, Friday, Nov. 29, 9:30-11a.m., Kahuku Unit Visitor Contact Station. Join local experts to learn about lava tubes and some interesting animals that call them home. Free. nps.gov/havo

Volcano Village Artists Hui 33rd Annual Studio Tour & Sale, Friday, Nov. 29, Saturday, Nov. 30, and Sunday, Dec. 1, 10a.m.-4p.m., map available at volcanovillageartistshui.com. Meet artists and view wide variety of artwork on display and available for purchase.

Program Preview Exhibit, Friday, Nov. 29, and Saturday, Nov. 30, 10a.m.-4p.m., Volcano Art Center. See what programs, events, and exhibits VAC has lined up for 2020. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

SATURDAY, NOV. 30

AdvoCATS, Wednesday, Nov. 30, 7a.m.-4:30p.m., Ocean View Community Center. Free spay/neuter for cats. 895-9283, advocatshawaii.org

Palm Trail, Sunday, Nov. 30, 9:30-12:30p.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, moderately difficult hike - 2.6 mile loop. nps.gov/havo

Girls Nite Out Band, Saturday, Nov. 30, 7-10p.m., Kīlauea Military Camp's Lava Lounge, in HVNP. $5 cover charge. Open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. kilaueamilitarycamp.com

SUNDAY, DEC. 1

Pu‘u Lokuana, Sunday, Dec. 1, 9:30-11a.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, short, moderately difficult, 0.4 mile hike. nps.gov/havo

Ham Radio Potluck Picnic, Sunday, Dec. 1 – 1st Sunday, monthly – noon-2p.m., Manukā State Park. Anyone interested in learning about ham radio is welcome to attend. View sites.google.com/site/southpointarc or sites.google.com/viewith southhawaiiares/home. Rick Ward, 938-3058

MONDAY, DEC. 2

Cultural Understanding through Art and the Environment: Dietrich Varez Block Printing with Desiree Moana Cruz, Monday, Dec. 2, 11a.m.-1p.m., Volcano Art Center. No registration required. $10 per person supply fee. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

Ocean View Volunteer Fire Department Mtg., Monday, Dec. 2, 4-6p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Name that Holiday Tune Registration, Dec. 2-5, Kahuku Park. Program takes place Friday, Dec. 6, 3-4p.m. Ages 6-14. 929-9113, hawaiicounty.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation/recreation

TUESDAY, DEC. 3

Hawai‘i County Council Mtgs., Tuesday, Dec. 3 (Committees), Wednesday, Dec. 4 (Council), Hilo. Ka‘ū residents can participate via videoconferencing at Nā‘ālehu State Office Building. Agendas at hawaiicounty.gov.

Ka‘ū Homeschool Co–op Group, Tuesday, Dec. 3 and 17, 9a.m., Ocean View Community Center. Parent-led homeschool activity and social group, building community in Ka‘ū. Call to confirm location before attending. Laura Roberts, 406-249-3351

Empower Meeting, Tuesday, Dec. 3 and 17 – every other Tuesday, monthly – 1p.m., PARENTS, Inc. office, Nā‘ālehu. Empowering girls group. Registration required. Diana, 935-4805

Ka‘ū Coffee Growers Mtg., Tuesday, Dec. 3, 6-8p.m., Pāhala Community Center.

ONGOING

Vendor Booth Space is Available for the Kamahalo Craft Fair. The 12th annual event will be held Thanksgiving weekend, Friday, Nov. 29, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday, Nov. 30, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Cooper Center. Booths are open for crafters with quality homemade and homegrown products. Food vendors must prepare all food items in a certified kitchen and must have a Department of Health permit displayed prominently at their booth. Application online at thecoopercenter.org. Direct questions to 936-9705 or kilaueatutu@gmail.com.

Tūtū & Me Home Visiting Program is a free service to Pāhala families with keiki, birth to five years old. This caregiver support program offers those taking care of young keiki "a compassionate listening ear, helpful parenting tips and strategies, fun and exciting activities, and wonderful educational resources" from Tūtū & Me Traveling Preschool. Home visits are one hour in length, two to four times per month, for 12 to 15 visits. Snacks are provided. See pidfoundation.org or call 808-938-1088.

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Ka‘ū News Briefs, Monday, November 25, 2019

Operations Services Supervisor Erin Santos, winner of Inspiration With Aloha award, with new CU Hawaiʻi Federal 

Credit Union Mark Peters and the team who serve at Nāʻālehu, Pāhala, and Ocean View. Photo from CU Hawaiʻi

NEW CU HAWAIʻI FEDERAL CREDIT UNION MANAGER FOR KAʻŪ, Mark Peters, said he is thrilled with the team of seven working at Nāʻālehu, Pāhala, and Ocean View. On the job for several months, Mark moved to Kaʻū for the position, after decades of work in finance, much of it with credit unions including the one originally organized by Pacific Bell employees in California.

     Peters also worked in consumer and real estate lending. He lived for the last 21 years in the San Francisco Bay area. He landed on this island to serve at CU Hawaiʻi just as Forbes Magazine ranked CU Hawaiʻi as the top credit union in the state of Hawaiʻi for 2019.

     Peters said he feels at home in Kaʻū, having grown up in a farm town. His wife, Diane, has kamaʻaina roots and for years the couple knew they would live in Hawaiʻi.

CU Hawaiʻi Credit Union branches include three 

in Kaʻū. Map from cuhawaii.com

     Peters said he is particularly pleased to work with Kaʻū's Operations Supervisor Erin Santos, who recently won the Inspiration With Aloha Core Value award, bestowed on her by the CU Hawaiʻi family of credit unions. He called her help with his integration into the Kaʻū community positive and amazing. Said, Peters, "I feel like I won a lottery to land here in this beautiful place" to work with such enthusiastic people who serve their community.

     He said more innovations in CU Hawaiʻi Federal Credit Union services are on their way to Kaʻū members, with guidance from CU Hawaiʻi President and CEO James Takamine. The message from the CU Hawaii website is that "We never deal with customers. We serve members, help neighbors, and support communities. From paying for everyday expenses to saving for retirement, our checking and savings accounts will help you realize more possibilities."

     CU Hawaiʻi also offers online/mobile banking and bill pay; personal, auto, home, vacant land, and business loans; debit cards, Master Card credit cards, and lines of credit; as well as money market and IRA savings accounts, and more.

     Branches are in Kona, Ocean View, Nāʻālehu, Pāhala, Pāhoa, Keaʻau, and Hilo. Board members of the islandwide CU Hawaiʻi Federal Credit Union are: Chair Eric Tanouye, Vice Chair Toby Taniguchi, Financial Officer Francis Tsunezumi, Secretary Katherine Hirayama, and Directors Takashi Sasaki, Dr. Donn Ouye, and Christine Takahashi.

     See cuhawaii.com for the history of the organization and its quarterly newsletter, as well as more details on services and community activities. This summer, CU Hawaiʻi was a sponsor of the winner's buckle for the July 4 Rodeo, held at Nāʻālehu Rodeo Arena by Kaʻū Roping & Riding Association.

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AN UPDATE ON SUNDAY'S FATAL CAR ACCIDENT on Kamaʻoa Road reveals the name of the 35 year old man from Nāʻālehu as Paul Ray Roby. He died following a single-vehicle collision on Kamaoa, .7 miles east of the South Point Road.
     According to the police report, "Responding to a 9:55 a.m. call, police determined that a white 2000 Mercedes-Benz convertible heading east had run off of the right shoulder (Makai side) of the roadway." The vehicle traveled onto an 8-foot embankment and struck several trees before overturning on its top. "The male driver was transported to the Kona Community Hospital where he was later pronounced dead at 4:27 p.m. Police do believe that speed and alcohol are factors in the crash. An autopsy has been ordered to determine the exact cause of death."
     The Area II Traffic Enforcement Unit has initiated a Coroner's Inquest investigation and is asking for anyone who may have witnessed the accident to contact Officer Jason Foxworthy at (808) 326-4646 ext. 229. This was the 22nd traffic fatality this year on the island - the 23rd happened this morning on the north end of the island - compared to 28 at this time last year.

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HAWAIʻI BIRD CONSERVATION MARATHON will be held on Sunday, Dec. 15, beginning at 6 a.m. The third annual event supports endemic birds of Hawai‘i through the Hawai‘i Forest Institute for the Keauhou Bird Conservation Center Discovery Forest in Volcano. Alan Ryan is taking over as Marathon Coordinator for Ornithologist/Race Director Robert Kennedy, who planned and organized the first two marathons. Registration is closed.

     The second annual Hawai’i Bird Conservation Marathon last year raised $5,915 in donation for KBCC Discovery Forest. The first race raised $4,188.

    Those who donate $100 or more to the Hawai‘i Forest Institute are invited to a special behind the scenes tour of the Keauhou Bird Conservation Center Discovery Forest in Volcano from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Dec. 14. Add a comment on the Hawai‘i Forest Institute donation page that the donation is associated with the HBC Marathon. To mail a check and avoid credit card fees, make payable to Hawai‘i Forest Institute and mail to Alan Ryan, P.O. Box 89, Laupahoehoe, HI 96764.

     The USA Track & Field Certified Course (HI17001BK) is a Boston Qualifier. The race is sanctioned by USA Track & Field (C17055419). The course is rated as the 2nd Fastest Marathon Course in the United States by FindMyMarathon.com. The course begins at Volcano Golf and Country Club, then heads downhill to Hilo along Volcano Road/Mamalahoa Highway until mile marker 26.06. Runners then turn left onto Stainback Highway to finish in front of the Boy Scouts' Kīlauea Camp. Total drop is 3,792 feet, total gain is 54 feet, and average grade is 2.72 percent. For the first 15 miles, the course was surrounded by a mixture of Hawaiian hāpuʻu and ‘ōhi‘a rain forest, residential areas, and agricultural land. On a clear day, the course offers a view of Hawaiʻi's highest volcanoes, Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea.

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HOLIDAYS AT  KAHUKU, presented by Friends of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, will be held Saturday, Dec. 14, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Kahuku Unit of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, Highway 11 at mile marker 70.5. This second annual event is free and open to the public. Music all day featuring the Shootz band playing rock & roll and motown, the Queen of Opera, D’Andrea Pelletier, and a surprise guest performing Hawaiian music.

     Crafters from Kaʻū and beyond will sell locally made items: jewelry, pottery, holiday decorations, and more. Hawaiʻi Pacific Park's Association's Book store will be open and providing many unique Park-associated books and items.

     Food will be available for purchase by Volcano House. Friend's will be selling shave ice, drinks, chips, and logo merchandise, with proceeds supporting park projects and educational programs.

     Crafters may apply for this event – $20 booth fee – by visiting fhvnp.org, emailing admin@fhvnp.org, or calling (808) 985-7373. Friends of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is a non-profit 501(c) 3, operating under a formal philanthropic partnership agreement with Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.

     Other activities at Kahuku Unit include:

     Ranger Orientation Talk, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, 10 a.m. at the Visitor Contact Station.

     Guided Hikes, Saturdays and Sundays (except Saturday, Dec. 14), starting at 9:30 a.m. at the VCS. Dec. 1, Pu’u o Lokuana Trail; Dec. 7, Realms and Divisions at Kahuku; Dec. 8 Pele and Hi’iaka; Dec. 15, ʻŌhiʻa Lehua; Dec. 21, Nature and Culture; Dec. 22, Palm Trail; Dec. 28 Birth of Kahuku; Dec. 29, People and Land.

     Coffee Talk, Friday, Dec. 27 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. December's event is a special presentation by the National Park Service on the resident artist, landscape painter Dawn Waters Baker.

     There are no entrance fees at Kahuku and all programs are free of charge. Kahuku will be closed Wednesday, Dec. 25 and Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2020. See nps.gov/havo/planyourvisit/kahuku.htm.

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NĀʻĀLEHU RODEO ARENA is seeing more action with the gymkhana in November and another coming up Sunday, Dec. 29 to be followed by an awards banquet and potluck dinner. The events are organized by Kaʻū Roping & Riding Association. This past Sunday's gymkhana results are:

     In Open Barrel Racing, Lorilee Lorenzo took first place, Mahina Lorenzo placed second.

     In Junior Barrel Racing, McClellan Akana placed first, Kircia Derasin took second.

     In Leadline Barrel Racing, Devyn Akana took first, Noah  took second, Malia Masuko took third,

More action is planned for Nāʻālehu Rodeo Arena

on Sunday, Dec. 29. Photo by Julia Neal

and Grayden Akana took fourth.

     In Novice Horse Barrel Racing, Denicia Derain took first place on Uʻi, then she took second on Silver

     In Keiki Barrel Racing, Teʻani Souza placed first, Molly Akana placed second, Ikaika Derasin placed third, Caya Wong placed fourth, and Quentin Lorenzo placed fifth.

     In Keiki Single Stake Racing, Ikaika Derasin placed first, Molly Akana placed second, Caya Wong placed third, and Quentin Lorenzo placed fourth.

     In Novice Horse Pole Bending, Denicia Derain took first place on Uʻi, then she took second on Silver.
     In Open Pole Bending, Lorilee Lorenzo took first place and Mahina Lorenzo took second place.
     In Junior Pole Bending, Kircia Derasin placed first and McKella Akana placed second.
     In Keiki Pole Bending, Molly Akana took first place, Teʻani Souza took second, Ikaika Derasin took third, and Caya Wong took fourth place.     In Open Flag Racing, Mahina Lorenzo placed first. In Junior Flag Racing, Kircia Derasin took first place.

     The final Gymkhana of 2019 on Sunday, Dec. 29 will start tentatively at 9 a.m., with check-in and sign-up at 8:30 a.m.

     Heading into Christmas, Kaʻū Roping & Riding will hold its second annual Lantern Parade on Saturday, Dec. 14 at 6 p.m. on Hwy 11, the Main Street of Nāʻālehu. For the first time, horses will join in the procession.

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NĀʻĀLEHU SCHOOL ACTIVITIES for December include Family Reading Nights on

Wednesday, Dec. 18, 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Nāʻālehu School Cafeteria, and Thursday, Dec. 19, 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Ocean View Community Center. The events include family reading time and make & take activities; snacks provided.

     Nāʻālehu Elementary School's Winter Break begins Monday, Dec. 23 and runs through Tuesday, Jan. 7, 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.

See public Kaʻū events, meetings, entertainment. 

See Kaʻū exercise, meditation, daily, and weekly events. 

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

and facebook.com/kaucalendar.

See monthly and weekly Kaʻū and Volcano Events, Meetings, Entertainment, Exercise, and Meditation at kaucalendar.com.

UPCOMING

TUESDAY, NOV. 26

Birding at Kīpukapuaulu, Tuesday, Nov. 26, 8-10a.m., Kīpukapuaulu - Bird Park - parking lot, HVNP. Led by retired USGS Biologist Nic Sherma. 2 hour birding tour. $40/person. Register online. Organized by Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. 985-7373, admin@fhvnp.org, fhvnp.org

H.O.V.E. Road Maintenance Corp. Board Mtg., Tuesday, Nov. 26, 10a.m., H.O.V.E. RMC office, 92-8979 Lehua Lane, Ocean View. 929-9910, hoveroad.com

Guided Hike on a 60 Year Old Lava Lake, Tuesday, Nov. 26, 10a.m.-2p.m., Kīlauea Iki Overlook parking lot, HVNP. Moderate to challenging 2.4 mile hike (one way). $80/person. Register online. Park entrance fees may apply. Organized by Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. 985-7373, admin@fhvnp.org, fhvnp.org

Trail Less Traveled, Tuesday, Nov. 26, 10:30a.m.-12:30p.m., Devastation Trail parking lot, HVNP. Moderate, 2 mile, two hour roundtrip hike. $40/person. Register online. Family friendly. Organized by Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. 985-7373, admin@fhvnp.org, fhvnp.org

Ka‘ū Food Pantry, Tuesday, Nov. 26, 11:30a.m.-1p.m., St. Jude's Episcopal Church in Ocean View. Volunteers welcome. Dave Breskin, 319-8333

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 27

Pom Pom Wreath Registration, Nov. 27 - Dec. 4, program takes place Tuesday, Dec. 10, 3-4p.m. Ages 6-14. 929-9113, hawaiicounty.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation/recreation

‘Ulu Maika Demonstration, Wednesday, Nov. 27, 10a.m.-noon, Kīlauea Visitor Center lānai. Play ‘ulu maika – which resembles American bowling but uses two stakes and a disc-shaped tone instead of pins and a ball – to celebrate the annual makahiki season. Free; park entrance fees apply. 985-6101, nps.gov/havo/

Kōkua Kupuna Project, Wednesday, Nov. 27 – last Wednesday, monthly – 9-11a.m., St. Jude's Episcopal Church, Ocean View. Seniors 60 years and older encouraged to attend, ask questions, and inquire about services offered through Legal Aid Society of Hawai‘i – referral required, 961-8626, for free legal services. Under 60, call 1-800-499-4302. More info: 329-3910 ext. 925. tahisha.despontes@legalaidhawaii.org. legalaidhawaii.org

THURSDAY, NOV. 28

Free Thanksgiving Dinner, Thursday, Nov. 28, noon-3p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Thanksgiving Day Buffet, Thursday, Nov. 28, 2-6p.m., Kīlauea Military Camp's Crater Rim Cafe. Traditional Thanksgiving dinner with all the fixin's. $23.95/adult, $13.95/child (ages 6-11). Open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. 967-8356, kilaueamilitarycamp.com

FRIDAY, NOV. 29

Holiday Challenge, Friday, Nov. 29, through beginning of Jan. 2020. Community invited to come out and vote for their favorite decorated cottage/activity. Open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. 967-8371, kilaueamilitarycamp.com

12th Annual Kamahalo Craft Fair, Friday, Nov. 29, 9a.m.-4p.m., and Saturday, Nov. 30, 9a.m.-3p.m., The Cooper Center, Volcano Village. Food vendors, homegrown products, and quality homemade crafts for sale. 936-9705, thecoopercenter.org

Kahuku Coffee Talk: Creatures that Have Evolved in the Dark, Friday, Nov. 29, 9:30-11a.m., Kahuku Unit Visitor Contact Station. Join local experts to learn about lava tubes and some interesting animals that call them home. Free. nps.gov/havo

Volcano Village Artists Hui 33rd Annual Studio Tour & Sale, Friday, Nov. 29, Saturday, Nov. 30, and Sunday, Dec. 1, 10a.m.-4p.m., map available at volcanovillageartistshui.com. Meet artists and view wide variety of artwork on display and available for purchase.

Program Preview Exhibit, Friday, Nov. 29, and Saturday, Nov. 30, 10a.m.-4p.m., Volcano Art Center. See what programs, events, and exhibits VAC has lined up for 2020. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

SATURDAY, NOV. 30

AdvoCATS, Wednesday, Nov. 30, 7a.m.-4:30p.m., Ocean View Community Center. Free spay/neuter for cats. 895-9283, advocatshawaii.org

Palm Trail, Sunday, Nov. 30, 9:30-12:30p.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, moderately difficult hike - 2.6 mile loop. nps.gov/havo

Girls Nite Out Band, Saturday, Nov. 30, 7-10p.m., Kīlauea Military Camp's Lava Lounge, in HVNP. $5 cover charge. Open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. kilaueamilitarycamp.com

SUNDAY, DEC. 1

Pu‘u Lokuana, Sunday, Dec. 1, 9:30-11a.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, short, moderately difficult, 0.4 mile hike. nps.gov/havo

Ham Radio Potluck Picnic, Sunday, Dec. 1 – 1st Sunday, monthly – noon-2p.m., Manukā State Park. Anyone interested in learning about ham radio is welcome to attend. View sites.google.com/site/southpointarc or
sites.google.com/viewith southhawaiiares/home. Rick Ward, 938-3058

MONDAY, DEC. 2

Cultural Understanding through Art and the Environment: Dietrich Varez Block Printing with Desiree Moana Cruz, Monday, Dec. 2, 11a.m.-1p.m., Volcano Art Center. No registration required. $10 per person supply fee. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

Ocean View Volunteer Fire Department Mtg., Monday, Dec. 2, 4-6p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Name that Holiday Tune Registration, Dec. 2-5, Kahuku Park. Program takes place Friday, Dec. 6, 3-4p.m. Ages 6-14. 929-9113, hawaiicounty.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation/recreation

ONGOING

Vendor Booth Space is Available for the Kamahalo Craft Fair. The 12th annual event will be held Thanksgiving weekend, Friday, Nov. 29, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday, Nov. 30, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Cooper Center. Booths are open for crafters with quality homemade and homegrown products. Food vendors must prepare all food items in a certified kitchen and must have a Department of Health permit displayed prominently at their booth. Application online at thecoopercenter.org. Direct questions to 936-9705 or kilaueatutu@gmail.com.

Tūtū & Me Home Visiting Program is a free service to Pāhala families with keiki, birth to five years old. This caregiver support program offers those taking care of young keiki "a compassionate listening ear, helpful parenting tips and strategies, fun and exciting activities, and wonderful educational resources" from Tūtū & Me Traveling Preschool. Home visits are one hour in length, two to four times per month, for 12 to 15 visits. Snacks are provided. See pidfoundation.org or call Tata Compehos and Melody Espejo at 808-938-1088.

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.