The Kaʻū Calendar News Briefs, Hawaiʻi Island: 08/01/2017

Thursday, August 31, 2017

Ka'ū News Briefs Thursday, August 31, 2017

HELCO'S envisioned future state for technology supporting the electric grid.
Image from HELCO

THE GRID MODERNIZATION STRATEGY of the Hawaiian Electric Companies was opened for public comments on Wednesday. The document was filed with the Hawaiʻi Public Utilities Commission on Tuesday, "providing a roadmap for building more resilient and renewable-ready island grids," says a statement from the utility company. Public comments are due Sept. 16.

The filing follows the submission of the companies’ draft report in late June. The draft was posted online and presented at four public meetings on Maui, Hawaiʻi Island and Oʻahu to review the strategy with customers, answer their questions and receive their comments.

Dozens of written comments and transcripts of the public meetings are included in a separate document that accompanied the filing. The plan, Modernizing Hawaiʻi’s Grid for Our Customers, "outlines near-term initiatives that strengthen the grid through investments in technology to enable more renewable energy resources to be safely and efficiently integrated with the grid, including private rooftop solar. Longer term, the strategy is to continue to evolve the grid as a platform to enable greater customer choice and support statewide economic development and smart communities efforts that rely on robust data and energy management systems," says the statement.

Current state of technology supporting the HELCO grid.
Image from HELCO

The Companies estimate it will cost $205 million to update the energy networks of Hawaiʻi Electric Light Co, Hawaiian Electric and Maui Electric over the next six years. The plan aims to help bring on more renewable resources – customer-sited and grid-sourced – increase reliability, and give customers new choices to manage their energy use.

The electric company names highlights of planned near-term work:

Distribution of smart meters strategically rather than system-wide, i.e., to customers with private rooftop solar on saturated circuits and customers interested in demand response programs, variable rates or electricity usage data;

Reliance on advanced inverter technology to enable greater rooftop solar adoption;
Expanded use of voltage management tools, especially on circuits with heavy solar penetration to maximize circuit capacities for private rooftop solar and other customer resources; and
Enhanced outage management and notification technology.

To read the filing, use the following link: www.hawaiielectriclight.com/gridmod.

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COOLING KA'Ū SCHOOLS MADE THE STATE LIST of heat abatement accomplishments announced by the office of Gov. David Ige today. Ka'ū High & Elementary received ceiling fans in seven classrooms. Nā'ālehu Elementary received fans for 21 classrooms. Elsewhere air conditioning was placed in 1,000 classrooms.
The announcement reported on heat abatement across the state, including such innovations as solar-powered ventilators at such schools as Moloka'i High and Hokulani Elementary.
Schools with 100 percent of classrooms with air conditioning include De Silva Elementary and Kalanianaole Elementary & Intermediate on the Big Island plus 22 schools elsewhere in the state.
The governor reports that 22 schools now have central air conditioning, including Kea'au and Konawaena on the Big Island. The estimated cost of installing AC at all state schools is $1.7 billion. The current annual electric bill for all state schools is $48 million and would increase significantly, according to state school planners.
An additional proposal to keep students cooler is to start school later in the year. "By law (Act 167), the school year must include 180 student instructional days. We will continue to work with unions, the Board of Education and the Legislature on this pressing issue," says the DOE statement.
See the Heat Abatement Program at Public Schools website.

HŪ HONUA, which plans to harvest 3,500 acres of eucalyptus trees on Kamehameha Schools land above Kapāpala and Pāhala, held a celebration on Wednesday to kick off the final construction phase of its $250 million power plant at the defunct Hilo Coast Processing Co. mill near Pepeekeo.
Hawai'i Electric Light Co. has signed a contract for 21.5 megawatts with Hū Honua.
According to a story in Hawai'i Tribune Herald today, Hū Honua envisions 30 permanent employees at the power plant, 130 ongoing forestry jobs plus 250 construction jobs to finish the power plant.
Some 4,500 acres at the Pinnacle eucalyptus forest north of Hilo is also targeted for harvesting and the company plans to replant the tree farms to keep the energy growing. Another 10,000 acres of Kamehameha Schools land may go into production to help keep the power plant running.

Life of the Land has filed suit in the Hawai'i Supreme Court, attempting to reverse the Public Utilities Commission approval of the project. According to Life of the Land, it is the first such suit related to climate change. See a future story on Life of the Land's stand.

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KA'Ū COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PLAN will be considered for adoption at the Hawai'i County Council Planning Committee's next meeting on Wednesday, Sept. 6 at 9:15 a.m. The Planning Committee Agenda can be found at hawaiicounty.granicus.com/viewpublisher.php?view_id=1 and the Ka'ū CDP Steering Committee agenda can be found at: hawaiicountycdp.info/kau-cdp/steering-committee/steering-commitee-meetings/september-6-2017.

Note that although the Ka'ū CDP agenda states that the meeting will convene at 9 a.m., the County Council website has just been updated to reflect a start time of 9:15 a.m. The entire Ka'ū Community Development Plan can be read at www.hawaiicountycdp.info/kau-cdp.

UPCOMING EVENTS FOR FALL TROJAN SPORTS:

Girls Volleyball: tomorrow, Friday, Sept. 1, Ka'ū vs. Lapahoehoe, away game.

Eight-Man Football: Saturday, Sept. 2, Ka'ū vs. Kohala, away game.

Cross Country: Saturday, Sept. 2, Ka'ū vs. Kealakehe, away meet.

AN EVENING WITH JOHN DAWSON is free to attend tonight, August 31, at 7 p.m. in the Volcano Art Center. Donations accepted. For more details call 967-8222.
Live Long and Prosper Mighty 'Ōhi'a a collection of paintings and illustrations that focus on the highly variable display of ‘ōhi’a lehua trees found within the park is currently available for viewing daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. through October 8, at Volcano Art Center Gallery in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Gallery viewings are free, though park entrance fees apply.

For more details, see yesterday's briefs.

SUNFLOWER CRAFT REGISTRATION for keiki ages 6 to 14 opens tomorrow Sept. 1 and continues through Sept. 15. The craft class will take place on Monday, Sept. 18, at Kahuku Park from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Call 929-9113 for more.

KA'Ū COMMUNITY FUN DAY & FUN-RAISING EVENT offered by Hope Dia-Mend Ministries is set to take place this Saturday, Sept. 2, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the grounds of the Nā'ālehu Community Center and field. For more information, call 808-929-8137 or visit hopedia-mendministries.com/jubilee. The event flyer also indicates entertainment, a keiki water slide and bouncy castle, a silent auction, Portuguese horseshoe tournament, classic car displays, vendor booths, carnival games and jail & rail. As part of the fundraising effort, chicken plates will be pre-sold at $10 each or 5 for $45 and chili & rice plates will be pre-sold at $5 each or 5 for $22. Game wristbands will be pre-sold at $10 each and can be purchased for $15 each at the event. Organizers welcome event sponsors and donations.

GREEN MACHINE: A Tiki Mama event sponsoring Hawai'i Island Food Bank takes place Saturday, Sept. 2, at Tiki Mama's, along Hwy. 11, on Road to the Sea. Gates open at 4 p.m. A donation of $10 and a one can of food is suggested.

REALMS AND DIVISIONS OF KAHUKU, a moderately difficult two-mile, guided hike on Kahuku Unit’s newest trail, Pu‘u Kahuku, explores the traditional Hawaiian classification system. The hike is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 2, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Bring a snack for the talk story segment of this hike. For more information, visit n ps.gov/HAVO.

HIKE TO THE TOP OF PU'U O LOKUANA this Sunday, Sept. 3, from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m., within the Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Learn about the formation and various uses of this grassy cinder cone and enjoy a breathtaking view of lower Ka‘ū on this free, moderately difficult 0.4-mile hike to the top. For more detail, visit nps.gov/HAVO.

HAM RADIO OPERATORS INVITES all American Radio Emergency Service members, anyone interested in learning how to operate a ham radio and families to attend a potluck picnic on Sunday, Sept. 3, at Manukā Park. For more details, call Dennis Smith at 989-3028.

A VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT MEETING is set for Monday, Sept. 4, 4 p.m., at the Ocean View Community Center. For more details, call 939-7033.

KA'Ū COFFEE GROWERS COOPERATIVE MEETS TUESDAY, Sept. 5, from 6 pm. to 8 p.m., at the Pāhala Community Center.

REGISTER 5TH GRADE GIRLS FOR GEMS BY SEPT. 15. Ka‘ū fifth grade girls are invited to start registering for GEMS, Girls Exploring Math and Science. The annual all day event has been set for the Crown Marriot King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel for Nov. 9.
Registration is on a first come, first served basis, and space is limited. Registration fee is $20 and scholarships are available. No girl will be turned away because of financial need.
All fifth grade girls residing in the West Hawai‘i School complex in public, private, or home-schooled are welcome. Sponsorship of girls by individuals or businesses will be accepted. For more information about GEMS, to sponsor a girl, or to request a registration packet, contact Cindy Armer, GEMS chairperson at cbarmer@hotmail.com or 808-896-7180. Remember GEMS registration form must be postmarked by 9-15-17. See more details on Ka'ū News Briefs from August 15, 2017.

Pick up the August edition of The Ka`u Calendar delivered
free to 5,500 mailboxes throughout Ka`u, from Miloli`i
through Volcano. Also available on stands throughout
the district. See it online at www.kaucalendar.com

http://kaucalendar.com/TheDirectory_2017.swf

Wednesday, August 30, 2017

Ka'ū News Briefs Wednesday, August 30, 2017

The community volunteers each year to help out with the annual Ka'ū Coffee Trail Run, which draws
runners of all ages from many states, countries and around Hawai'i. The 4th annual event is Sept. 23. See story below.
Photo by Julia Neal

"PRESIDENT TRUMP IS ON BRINK of Ending Program that Protects Immigrants Brought to America as Young Children," headlines a joint statement issued Wednesday by Sen. Mazie Hirono, Hawai'i Attorney General Doug Chin and the Hawai'i Coalition for Civil Rights." If Trump Ends DACA, More than 800,000 Young People Nationwide, Including 2,000 in Hawai'i, Could Be Deported," is their subhead.

Sen. Mazie Hirono, AG Doug Chin and Hawai'i Coalition for
Civil Rights speak out to preserve DACA for immigrants.

Hirono, Chin and representatives of the Hawai'i Coalition for Civil Rights spoke out about the importance of protecting Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals recipients "as the President threatens to take action that could end the program. Ten Republican state attorney generals have issued an ultimatum to the President that they will take legal action if the administration does not end the DACA program by September 5."
Says the Hawai'i statement, "Ending DACA is just the latest action the Trump administration would take in their campaign to target immigrant communities and stoke hatred and division."
Hirono continues to advocate for DREAMers and preserving the DACA program. As the only immigrant currently serving in the U.S. Senate, Hirono advocates for comprehensive immigration reform that includes a pathway to citizenship and is "written with family unity as a guiding principle," she said.

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TWO NEW JUDGES HAVE BEEN APPOINTED for the Big Island by Gov. David Ige. Both appointments are subject to Senate confirmation, which allow for public testimony.
Henry Taro Nakamoto, 53, District Family Court Judge, is appointed to the Third Circuit Court in Hilo to fill the vacancy created by the December 2016 retirement of The Honorable Glenn S. Hara.

Judge Henry Taro Nakamoto

Nakamoto served as a Family Court Judge and a District Court Judge beginning June 2014. Prior to his service on the bench, he practiced law at Nakamoto, Okamoto & Yamamoto where he was a partner and director, and Goodsill Anderson Quinn & Stifel, where he was an associate. He was born and raised on Hawaiʻi Island and practiced here for 23 years, focusing on family and civil law. Nakamoto completed a B.A. in economics at Cornell University before earning his J.D. at Hastings College of Law.
"I would like to thank Gov. Ige for giving me the opportunity to serve as a circuit court judge. I appreciate all the support I have gotten from friends and family and will strive to continue to serve the community,” said Nakamoto.
Attorney Robert D.S. Kim, 63, is appointed to the Third Circuit Court in Kona to fill the vacancy created by the retirement of The Honorable Judge Ronald Ibarra in June 2017.
Kim, who is in private practice, is a litigator who concentrates in the areas of criminal defense, family law, civil litigation, personal injury litigation, and administrative proceedings. Kim has served as the West Hawai'i Bar President for many years. He has extensive civil, family and criminal trial experience. Kim graduated from the University of Hawaiʻi –Hilo with a Bachelor of Arts in political science and earned his law degree at the William S. Richardson School of Law.

Robert D.S. Kim

“I am honored and humbled to be nominated to fill the position of retired Judge Ronald Ibarra. I am committed to work diligently and respectfully if I am confirmed by the Senate,” said Kim.
“Judge Nakamoto and Mr. Kim both understand the law and the role of a judge in ensuring fair and impartial decisions in our judicial system. They will serve the people of Hawaiʻi well,” said the governor.
The process used to select these appointees is the same process used in prior selections and will be used whenever the governor makes judicial appointments, said Ige. He personally interviewed each candidate, received input from retired Hawai‘i State Supreme Court Associate Justice James Duffy, who reviewed the qualifications of the nominees, solicited feedback on each from the law community, and reviewed testimony submitted by the public. The Senate confirmation also allows opportunities for the general public to weigh in.

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KA'Ū CHAMBER OF COMMERCE plans its annual art show for Tuesday, Sept. 26 - Friday, Sept. 29 at the Ka'ū Hawai'i Federal Credit Union annex building in Nā'ālehu.

According the posters around the community, art entries will be accepted on Monday, Sept. 25. An artist reception, prizes and art pick up will be in the morning on Saturday, Sept. 30. The show will be open during normal credit union business hours, says the poster. Categories include: Painting, Graphics, Photography, Craft, Lei, Weaving, Jewlery, Quilting, Sculpture, Woodworking. There will be categories for Youth and Keiki. "See your artwork on the cover of The Directory 2018, if you piece wins the popular vote!" says the poster.

This year the art show is promoted as a fundraiser for the annual Ka'ū Chamber of Commerce Scholarship Program. The Chamber is under the new leadership of Allen Humble and Allan Stanton. Call 936-5288. See kauchamber.org.

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Wood Valley's Denny family competed in the 2016 Ka'ū Coffee Trail Run,
with mom Megan, taking first place in the 5K women's division.
Photo by Julia Neal

KA'Ū COFFEE TRAIL RUN, toted as the Southernmost Coffee Trail Run in the USA, returns for its 4th year to the slopes of Wood Valley on Saturday, Sept. 23. The 5K, 10K, and 1/2 marathon races take runners on unpaved trails through the idyllic country hillsides above Pāhala among macadamia nut orchards, coffee fields, eucalyptus & ‘ōhi'a forests, and cattle-grazing pastures.
Staggered gun starts begin at 7 a.m., with all races beginning and ending at the Ka‘ū Coffee Mill located at 96-2696 Wood Valley Road above the town of Pāhala. Runners will receive a race goodies bag, including a T-shirt and more. Each registered participant will also be entered into a door prize drawing valued at $700.

Billy Barnett won the 2014 & 2016
Ka'ū Coffee Trail Run Half Marathons.
Photo by Peter Anderson

Trail terrains vary between races: the 5K is a family-friendly, run/walk trail through macadamia nut groves and coffee fields; the 10K is a moderate run through macadamia nut groves and coffee fields; and the Half Marathon follows the 5K & 10K course, then continues up to an elevation of 3,100 feet, traverses onto a 4-wheel drive access road, marked trails undulating through grazing pastures.

Deadlines for early registration have passed, however runners can still sign up with regular registration prices until Sept. 11: 5K/$35, 10K/$45, and HM/$55. From Sept. 11 to Sept. 21, late registration prices apply: 5K/$55, 10K/$65, and HM/$75.

Post-race massages will also be available for $1.00/Minute.

Winner of the 2016 Ka'ū Coffee Trail Run
5K was Michael Schueller.
Photo by Julia Neal

Register for the race online at webscorer.com/
register?raceid=94997. Online registration closes on Thursday, September 21, at midnight. Race day registration ends at 6:30 a.m. For more details about the event visit okaukakou.org/kau-coffee-trail-run/. All proceeds remain in Ka‘ū to support service projects for keiki & kupuna, schools, community groups, and organizations who look to ‘OKK for assistance.
To view Vernon Harvey’s aerial footage of the event, taken by drone, visit youtube.com/watch?v=9-8FsDDHTFY.

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UPCOMING EVENTS FOR FALL TROJAN SPORTS:

Girls Volleyball: Friday, Sept. 1, Ka'ū vs. Lapahoehoe, away game.

Eight-Man Football: Saturday, Sept. 2, Ka'ū vs. Kohala, away game.

Cross Country: Saturday, Sept. 2, Ka'ū vs. Kealakehe, away meet.

AN EVENING WITH JOHN DAWSON is free to attend on tomorrow, August 31, at 7 p.m. in the Volcano Art Center. Donations accepted. For more details call 967-8222.

Live Long and Prosper Mighty 'Ōhi'a a collection of paintings and illustrations that focus on the highly variable display of ‘ōhi’a lehua trees found within the park is currently available for viewing daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. through October 8, at Volcano Art Center Gallery in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Gallery viewings are free, though park entrance fees apply.

REALMS AND DIVISIONS OF KAHUKU, a moderately difficult two-mile, guided hike on Kahuku Unit’s newest trail, Pu‘u Kahuku, explores the traditional Hawaiian classification system. The hike is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 2, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Bring a snack for the talk story segment of this hike. For more information, visit n ps.gov/HAVO.

HIKE TO THE TOP OF PU'U O LOKUANA this Sunday, Sept. 3, from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m., within the Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Learn about the formation and various uses of this grassy cinder cone and enjoy a breathtaking view of lower Ka‘ū on this free, moderately difficult 0.4-mile hike to the top. For more detail, visit nps.gov/HAVO.

HAM RADIO OPERATORS INVITES all American Radio Emergency Service members, anyone interested in learning how to operate a ham radio and families to attend a potluck picnic on Sunday, Sept. 3, at Manukā Park. For more details, call Dennis Smith at 989-3028.

REGISTER 5TH GRADE GIRLS FOR GEMS BY SEPT. 15. Ka‘ū fifth grade girls are invited to start registering for GEMS, Girls Exploring Math and Science. The annual all day event has been set for the Crown Marriot King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel for Nov. 9.
Registration is on a first come, first served basis, and space is limited. Registration fee is $20 and scholarships are available. No girl will be turned away because of financial need.
All fifth grade girls residing in the West Hawai‘i School complex in public, private, or home-schooled are welcome. Sponsorship of girls by individuals or businesses will be accepted. For more information about GEMS, to sponsor a girl, or to request a registration packet, contact Cindy Armer, GEMS chairperson at cbarmer@hotmail.com or 808-896-7180. Remember GEMS registration form must be postmarked by 9-15-17. See more details on Ka'ū News Briefs from August 15, 2017.

http://kaucalendar.com/TheDirectory_2017.swf

Tuesday, August 29, 2017

Ka'ū News Briefs Tuesday, August 29, 2017

View from the Ka'ū Preserve. See story below. Photo by John Replogle

THE KA'Ū COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PLAN will go before the County Council's Planning Committee on Wednesday, Sept. 6, the County Planning Department announced on Monday. The meeting is open to the public and will provide opportunities to testify. The meeting will be held at the Hilo County Building, Council Chambers Room 1401, 25 Aupuni Street in Hilo. See the final plan that is up for adoption at www.hawaiicountycdp.info/kau-cdp.

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A 3.8 EARTHQUAKE, FELT through west Ka'ū through Nā'ālehu and Punalu'u struck northeast of Ocean View Estates today at 3:52 p.m. According to the USGS, the depth was 7.3 miles.

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A PAID YEAR-ROUND INTERNSHIP WITH THE NATURE CONSERVANCY is offered, working on programs at its three preserves in Ka‘ū and South Kona and an office at Honu‘apo.

The intern would be hired through Kupu, the non-profit company that aims to “empower youth to serve their communities through character-building, service-learning, and environmental stewardship opportunities that encourage pono (integrity) with Ke Akua (God), self and others.”

According to the Job Description issued by The Nature Conservancy, the intern would have an “essential role in conducting TNC field operations. These operations include assisting surveying, mapping, monitoring, and controlling alien species and their impacts to Hawai‘i forests. The intern must be willing and able to camp in remote mountainous areas for up to five nights at a time and operate in extremely rugged terrain and adverse weather conditions. Work environment involves exposure to job hazards where there is a high possibility of injury, including helicopter operations, so a commitment to safety is essential. The intern will assist the TNC team and partners with field operations that may include noxious weed control, feral ungulate control, trail maintenance, vehicle and equipment maintenance, fence construction/maintenance, data entry, and outreach activities.”

A hawikbill turtle with her nest at the Kamehame Preserve.
Photo by Will Olsen/Hawksbill Recovery Project

The intern would be expected to work in all three preserves for a period of 11 months, from October 2017 to August 2018, with a general daily schedule being from 6:30 a.m. on site to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday (occasional weekends and variations to the schedule should be anticipated). In return the intern would earn a $1,440 monthly living allowance (before taxes) in addition to a $5,815 education award towards high education, and health care and childcare benefits (if eligible) while receiving an in-depth entry-level environmental experience.

All viable applicants must be at least 18 years of age (or 17 with a high school diploma) by October 2, 2017, possess/be working towards high school diploma or equivalent, have own housing and transportation and pass a criminal history check. For more details call 443-5401 and to complete an application online, visit kupuhawaii.org, under the Conservation Leaders Program.

The intern would gain experience at all three preserves:

TNC Forest Technician Mel Johansen stands in for scale
in the Kona Hema Preserve. Photo from nature.org

The Ka‘ū Preserve consists of 3,500 acres on Mauna Loa. The preserve consists of four separate parcels of tall wet ‘ōhi‘a and koa forest with a 1,200 acre section of fenced area that has been ungulate free for three years. The forest area begins at 2,000 elevation and in some areas continues to an elevation over 5,000 feet. Work conditions in the area can be wet and cold at times, with frequent rain in the afternoons.

The Kona Hema Preserve consists of over 8,000 acres of dry land forest in South Kona and stretches in elevation from about 3,000 feet to 5,600 feet. Part of an ancient koa-‘ōhi‘a forest, this area is home to the Hawaiian hoary bat, and many native songbirds, despite the effects of more than a century of logging and feral animals. Work conditions in the area can be cold.

The Kamehame Preserve is a small 24 acre parcel on the Ka‘ū coast. It is an important nesting ground for the endangered hawksbill turtle.

The Nature Conservancy is a worldwide non-profit conservation organization.

For more information about TNC, to volunteer or become a donor call 443-5401 or visit nature.org.

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THE BAY CLINIC RECEIVED A VISIT FROM SEN. MAZIE HIRONO on Monday. She and its administrators discussed how the Affordable Care Act has impacted Hawaii'i Island community health centers and patients served through the ACA's expansion of federal funding for CHCs and Medicaid.
"The ACA's Medicaid expansion has covered more than 100,000 Hawai'i residents and continues to help our community health centers provide access to quality, affordable health care," said Hirono. "I remain committed to protecting health care as a right, not a privilege, for individuals and families in Hawai'i, and will continue fighting for critical funding to support our community health centers."

Sen. Mazie Hirono meets with Bay Clinic Women's Health Center.
Photo from Office of Sen. Mazie Hirono

Hirono toured the Bay Clinic's Women's Health Center, and received an update on the Clinic's efforts to make East Hawai'i healthier by addressing social determinants in the community. These efforts include services provided through Bay Clinic's mobile health unit, which has expanded access to vital health and dental services in rural and underserved neighborhoods to support individuals who may not otherwise be able to access such services.
Harold Wallace, the Bay Clinic's CEO said, "We are pleased that Senator Hirono is a strong advocate for affordable health care for all, which includes the underserved living in the most rural areas of Hawai'i Island. Her ongoing support of the ACA is critical to ensuring the Act stays and any reform focuses on strengthening the Act's provisions, such as the Marketplace Exchanges. We look forward to further partnering with Senator Hirono in her efforts to protect and strengthen certain provisions of the ACA, while also protecting Hawai'i's Prepaid Health Care Act."
A statement from Hirono's office said that she continues to be a strong advocate for federal funding to support CHCs. In 2015, she voted for the Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act, which extended funding for CHCs provided by the ACA. This enhanced funding level will expire on Sept. 30, absent Congressional action to extend it. Hirono also recently met with state health officials, insurance companies, and providers in the state.

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Visitors enjoy a guided hike to Pu'u o Lokuana cindercone,
within Kahuku Unit of Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park.
Photo by NPS/Janice Wei

REGISTER 5TH GRADE GIRLS FOR GEMS BY SEPT. 15. Ka‘ū fifth grade girls are invited to start registering for GEMS, Girls Exploring Math and Science. The annual all day event has been set for the Crown Marriot King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel for Nov. 9.
This event is sponsored by the American Association of University Women, Kona Branch, whose mission is to advance equity for women and girls though advocacy, education, and research.
Registration is on a first come, first served basis, and space is limited. Registration fee is $20 and scholarships are available. No girl will be turned away because of financial need.
Some of the workshops this year are: Underwater Adventure, Marine Science, Slime Time, Robotics, Anchialine Pools, Energy, Art and Science of Food, Animal Doctors, Dig into the Past, Hawaiian Monk Seals, Light and Reflection, Creative Computer Programming, How Rainbows Solve Mysteries, Art and Science of Dermatology, Discovering the Isle of Gems, Zumba Breaks the Mold and Body Shop.
All fifth grade girls residing in the West Hawai‘i School complex in public, private, or home-schooled are welcome. Sponsorship of girls by individuals or businesses will be accepted. For more information about GEMS, to sponsor a girl, or to request a registration packet, contact Cindy Armer, GEMS chairperson at cbarmer@hotmail.com or 808-896-7180. Remember GEMS registration form must be postmarked by 9-15-17. See more details on Ka'ū News Briefs from August 15, 2017.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter.

UPCOMING EVENTS FOR FALL TROJAN SPORTS:

Girls Volleyball: Friday, Sept. 1, Ka'ū vs. Lapahoehoe, away game.

Eight-Man Football: Saturday, Sept. 2, Ka'ū vs. Kohala, away game.

Cross Country: Saturday, Sept. 2, Ka'ū vs. Kealakehe, away meet.

AN EVENING WITH JOHN DAWSON is free to attend on Thursday, August 31, at 7 p.m. in the Volcano Art Center. Donations accepted. For more details call 967-8222.

HAM RADIO OPERATORS INVITES all American Radio Emergency Service members, anyone interested in learning how to operate a ham radio and families to attend a potluck picnic on Sunday, Sept. 3, at Manukā Park. For more details, call Dennis Smith at 989-3028.

HIKE TO THE TOP OF PU'U O LOKUANA this Sunday, Sept. 3, from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m., within the Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Learn about the formation and various uses of this grassy cinder cone and enjoy a breathtaking view of lower Ka‘ū on this free, moderately difficult 0.4-mile hike to the top. For more detail, visit nps.gov/HAVO.

A VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT MEETING is set for Monday, Sept. 4, 4 p.m., at the Ocean View Community Center. For more details, call 939-7033.

KA'Ū COFFEE GROWERS COOPERATIVE MEETS TUESDAY, Sept. 5, from 6 pm. to 8 p.m., at the Pāhala Community Center.

http://kaucalendar.com/TheDirectory_2017.swf

Monday, August 28, 2017

Ka'ū News Briefs Monday, August 28, 2017

Keiki sing "Happy Birthday" while learning proper hand washing techniques demonstrated at Mālama Nā Keiki Festival. Photo by Geneveve Fyvie

Hula Hālau Lei o Nālani entertain attendees. Photo by Alan Moores

OVER A HUNDRED KEIKI AND THEIR 'OHANA gathered at Nā‘ālehu Park to enjoy the free first annual Mālama Nā Keiki Festival organized by Hui Mālama Ola Nā ‘Oiwi on Saturday, August 26. Debbie Ryder’s Hālau Hula Lei o Nālani performed as keiki and ‘ohana explored the many booths available.
Upon arrival, attendees were asked to register and receive a “passport” for each person to present at each booth, a reward was offered to those who were able to verify that they had attended all 25 stations arranged under 12 main tents, with ‘O Ka‘ū Kākou offering shaved ice in the twelfth tent. An obstacle course located in the middle of the courtyard (tents were arranged along the perimeter of a large rectangle) offered keiki a fun way to release extra energy throughout the day.

Hula Hālau Lei o Nālani keiki performers. Photo by Alan Moores

The second tent (registration and raffle tickets occupied the first tent) offered Prenatal Education, information about the importance of immunizations and sign-up opportunities for Healthy Hapai classes.
The third tent offered information about Breast Cancer Awareness while showing both women and men how to do a self-exam and handing out necklaces made with various sized wooden beads (representing tumors) as personal reminders to get checked as well as a specially designed plastic sheet to aid self-examination. Also in the third tent was an exercise for keiki to make photo frames using markers and fruit stickers alongside a display of colorful fruits and vegetables arranged in a rainbow with information about the benefits of “eating the rainbow.”

Display at Mālama Nā Keiki Festival illustrating the benefits of "eat[ing] the rainbow." Photo by Geneveve Fyvie

Willing keiki received free hearing exams.
Photo by Geneveve Fyvie

The fourth tent offered free hearing screenings for keiki, though no child was forced to participate, as well as a demonstration about the importance of staying active. Height and weight measurements were taken and children were challenged to jump the length of their body.
The fifth tent demonstrated proper hand washing techniques, asking keiki to sing “Happy Birthday” while lathering their hands with soap, before offering an array of fresh fruit, vegetable and sandwiches and wraps for everyone to enjoy. A hydration station of cooled water was also available.
The sixth tent offered a large bag of food to all attendees courtesy of Food Basket, the parent organization of Ka‘ū Food Pantry. Substance abuse information and help pamphlets were also available at the sixth tent, courtesy of Big Island Substance Abuse Council.

NIU Hawai'i LLC founde Ka'anohiokala Pe'a demonstrates
to keiki massage techniques. Photo by Geneveve Fyvie

The seventh tent offered representatives from PATCH - Hawai‘i’s only child care resource and referral agency, Tūtū & Me Traveling Preschool, where keiki could practice their counting skills using dot art, and PARENTS, Inc. Also present was NIU (Nurturing is Universal) Hawai'i LLC founder Ka‘anohiokala Pe‘a, a licensed massage therapist specializing in pediatric and adult massage therapy who explained how beneficial touch therapy can be to those with autism and those in neonatal care. He taught basic lessons in massage to keiki using play dough and explained to them that when they or a family member is feeling stressed, massage is a great way to relieve that stress. He demonstrated that when massage is not an option, play dough can also offer a way to work that tension or frustration out. Pe‘a is also a certified infant massage teacher and offers classes and workshops around the island.

Keiki were welcomed to plant and take home personalized a pot
with soil and a green bean seed. Photo by Geneveve Fyvie

The eighth tent offered keiki the opportunity to immerse their hands in soil and plant a green bean seedling to take home. Older keiki were able to test their diagnostic skills with a list of symptoms and pictures. Representatives were available from KTA Pharmacy, Family Support Hawai'i, West Hawai‘i Early Headstart.
The ninth tent offered representatives from WIC, Bay Clinic, and Bay Clinic Dental.
The Project Vision Hawai‘i Vision Van took place in the tenth tent position with free vision screenings available.

'O Ka'ū Kākou handed out free shaved ice to attendees.
Photo by Alan Moores

Keiki ID’s courtesy of the Hawai'i County Police Department along with representatives of the Office of the Prosecuting Attorney were available in the eleventh tent.
To learn more about Hui Mālama, visit hmano.org.

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HELP FOR HARVEY VICTIMS: KA'Ū'S CONGRESSWOMAN Tulsi Gabbard is asking citizens here to assist those in need after category four Hurricane Harvey, followed by torrential rains and extreme flooding, destroyed and drove people from their homes across eastern Texas. Gabbard issued this statement today:
"Our nation's eyes and prayers are with those in Texas as Hurricane Harvey continues to pour down torrential rain across the Gulf Coast. With catastrophic flooding and tens of thousands of people stranded without relief, every bit of help we offer can make a difference.

"The people of Texas are in dire need of diapers, baby formula, hygiene and sanitary items, medical supplies, non-perishable food, clothing, clean water, shelter, and more. Corpus Christi, Beaumont, Galveston, Houston, and surrounding communities have been totally inundated, and local emergency services are operating beyond capacity. More than nine million people in the metro area are affected, many of whom have lost their homes, cars, and possessions to flooding that experts say will continue to get worse before it gets better."
Gabbard recommends making a donation to the "Houston Food Bank, the Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund, the American Red Cross, or any other local disaster relief organization of your choosing.
"A terrible, tragic event such as this offers little to be optimistic about, but especially during times like this, we find hope in our hands and spirits joining together to help one another. If we act together at this moment, we can not only help Texas heal, but begin to bring together our country. We can rise above the present adversity and prove our resolve to heal the bitter differences that have pulled us apart. We are all Americans, and what affects one of us affects us all.
"This disaster will take years to recover from, but our collective spirit is stronger than the wind or the rain. Let us live aloha and show the people of Texas that they are not alone and not forgotten. We are here for them," said Gabbard.

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REGISTER KEIKI, grades K-8, until tomorrow, August 29, to make a beaded key chain on Wednesday, August 30, from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Pahala Community Center. Call 928-3102 for more.

HOVE ROAD MAINTENANCE BOARD OF DIRECTORS meet at 10 a.m. tomorrow, August 29, at St. Jude’s Episcopal Church. For more details call 929-9910.

KA'Ū FOOD PANTRY, a non-profit organization that aims to provide each family in need with three days of food, will be handing out food again tomorrow, August 29, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at St. Jude’s Episcopal Church in Ocean View. Most of the food comes from Food Basket of Hawai'i, Inc. in Kona. Ka'ū Food Basket pays them a small handling fee for the food they provide.

AN EVENING WITH JOHN DAWSON is free to attend on Thursday, August 31, at 7 p.m. in the Volcano Art Center. Donations accepted. For more details call 967-8222.

http://kaucalendar.com/TheDirectory_2017.swf