Ka‘ū News Briefs Thursday, November 30, 2017

The Mauna Loa Weather station, at 11,141 feet in altitude, experienced heavy snow Thursday as flood warnings
were issued at lower elevations in Ka`u and around the island. File Photo from Mauna Loa Observatory

U.S. SENATOR MAZIE HIRONO ANNOUNCED HER NO VOTE on the tax reform bill in Congress on Thursday, saying that it would hurt the middle class and the poor and further enrich the wealthy. The voting was expected to go into Friday morning.
     “Rather than crafting a tax plan that would actually help middle class families, Donald Trump and the Republican Party have decided to screw them over instead,” she stated.
     Hirono highlighted the Senate bill’s focus on "providing substantial tax relief to corporations and wealthy individuals at the expense of working families and investments that benefit communities in Hawai`i and nationwide. While not yet law, buried in the House and Senate Republicans’ massive and rushed tax legislation are provisions that have already created uncertainty and impacted the construction of Hawai`i hospitals and other important infrastructure projects," said a statement from her office.

Sen. Mazie Hirono testified claimed the tax cut plan will
take away health care and put middle class and
poor people at additional risk.

     Hirono said, “It’s hard to understand how Donald Trump and his Republican allies in Congress could in good conscience cut a program that saves lives to finance tax cuts for the wealthy and corporations.” She predicted negative impacts to Hawai`i in "little-known provisions of the Republican tax plan" on such programs as Kapiolani Medical Center for Women and Children.
     In her speech before the U.S. Senate on Thursday, she said, "Mr. President, the Republican tax plan we are debating today is a sham. It is a solution in search of a problem. The President and his allies in Congress are bound and determined to give the richest people in our country and large corporations huge tax cuts. The theory, certainly not reality, is that these huge tax cuts will magically trickle down to create a fantastic, incredible, tremendous economy. The fact that this theory has been thoroughly discredited and in reality shown to be false is of little concern to them.
     "What exactly, then, is the problem this bill is supposed to address? Corporations and the richest 1 percent of people in our country are doing just fine. They certainly don’t need any more goodies. Over the past ten years, corporate profits have grown exponentially. More wealth is concentrated in the hands of the top 1percent than at any time since the Great Depression.

Hirono said that the tax bill includes a measure to prohibit state and
local governments form issuing private activity bonds, which have
helped such institutions as Kapi`olani Medical Center.

     "Groups like the U.S. Chamber of Commerce claim this bill will spur new investment and help workers. What world are they living in? Corporations have sheltered $2.6 trillion dollars off shore to avoid paying taxes. This is money they could already be using to create jobs, build factories, or raise employee wages. Not happening, and won’t happen. These people and corporations do not need more money and profits. On the other hand, middle class families have seen stagnant wage growth for nearly 20 years."
     Hirono testified that "Health care continues to be a political football, with the President sabotaging the Affordable Care Act and Congressional efforts to repeal the law. The cost of a college education is increasingly out of reach for working people. The list goes on.
     "But rather than crafting a tax plan that would actually help middle class families, Donald Trump and the Republican Party have decided to screw them over instead. All to give rich people and corporations huge tax cuts they do not need. In Hawai`i, we have a word to describe what’s happening here. This is shibai, or B.S."

Hirono predicted that 13 million will lose their health care with
the elimination of the individual mandate to have health insurance,
proposed through the tax cut bill. She said health care premiums
 will increase significantly.

     She said the Senate has had "little time to debate the devastating impact of this massive bill. But even in the short amount of time we’ve had, it’s clear how many of the major provisions in this bill would harm working people.
     "For example, this bill eliminates the individual mandate for health care, which is just another way to repeal the Affordable Care Act. How many bites out of this repeal apple are the Republicans going to take? Thirteen million people will lose their health insurance. Premiums for everyone else would increase significantly every year. Do they think that these millions of people will not notice what’s happening to them? I don’t think so.
     "This bill eliminates the state and local tax deduction that thousands of taxpayers in Hawai`i count on. These tax giveaways to the rich will force states to make huge and painful cuts to public education, essential social services, and infrastructure investment.
     "But the devastating impact of this bill is not limited to the parts everyone’s heard about. This Republican tax scam has a number of obscure provisions that are already having or will cause real harm.
     "The House bill, for example, eliminates the ability of state and local governments to issue private activity bonds. This kind of bond certainly isn’t something you’re likely to hear about on Morning Joe or Wolf Blitzer, but they are very important. Through private activity bonds, the federal government allows states and local governments to issue tax-exempt bonds to finance certain kinds of projects that help our communities.
     "State and local governments routinely issue private activity bonds to construct public housing, develop mass transit, or construct new schools and hospitals. The Republican tax bill hasn’t even passed Congress yet, but the mere threat of eliminating private activity bonds is already having a profoundly negative impact on Hawai`i and communities across the country."
     Hirono said that hospitals across Hawai`i have used private activity bonds to finance much-needed expansions of service. With the help of private activity bonds, Kapiolani Medical Center for Women and Children in Honolulu recently finished construction of its 40,000 square foot Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, which is available for use by infants transferred from Kaʻū.

Hirono said in her Senate speech Wednesday that Midecare could
be cut by $25 billion with the proposed tax cut plan.

     Michael Robinson, Kapiolani’s Vice President of Government Relations and Community Affairs, said private activity bonds could literally mean the difference between life and death for Hawai`i residents. In a letter to Hirono, he wrote, “It’s difficult to understand why Congress is considering eliminating private activity bonds when this method of financing has been essential in providing non-profit hospitals the resources to provide care to the patients they serve."
     Hirono also testified, "If this bill passes before the end of this calendar year, it could trigger $136 billion in mandatory cuts to essential programs, including $25 billion in cuts to Medicare." Hirono said that she and two other Senators have introduced an amendment that would automatically undo the corporate tax cut if these cuts to Medicare happen.
     "If we’re serious about a tax plan that will help middle class families in a meaningful way, we need to kill this terrible bill and start over," concluded Hirono in her testimony before the U.S. Senate.

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KA‘Ū LEARNING ACADEMY was given 30 days on Tuesday to reply to  a "notice of prospect of revocation" of its Public Charter School Charter. The state Public Charter School Commission alleged issues with accounting practices, financial procedures and labor laws. KLA's managing director, Joe Iacuzzo attended the meeting in Honolulu and described the 95-student school, grades three through seven, as academically strong. He said that accounting issues were "basic, minor clerical errors." He said the school has a clean 2017 audit. "There isn't any fraud.....nothing off by tens of thousands of dollars." He pointed to KLA's accomplishments "with our children and families down there in Ka`u," according to a story in Wednesday's Hawai`i Tribune Herald.

     Hawai`i Academy of Arts and Science director Steve Hirakami testified in favor of continuing KLA's charter, saying that KLA's issues are "minuscule" compared to those faced by HAAS when it first started.
      The Charter School Commission also voted to withhold the school's next payment from Department of Education funding that goes to Charter Schools according to the number of students enrolled. However, essential operational expenses will be provided, the commission decided.
     After KLA responds to the commission's notice, and should KLA ask for a hearing, the Charter School Commission will set a hearing date. To determine the fate of KLA, the commission has 30 days after the school's response or 30 days after the hearing. KLA could appeal any final decision to revoke the charter.

Ka`u Learning Academy opened its doors in 2015 at the
old Discovery Harbour Golf Course Clubhouse.
Photo from KLA

    Irregularities described in the audit included: "Funds for bill payments were disbursed with no approval by an appropriate level of authority; reimbursements for personal travel costs and payment for a utility bill for school management were made to KLA following the close of the fiscal year; and lack of documentation for 12 charges made on the school debit account could not provide support for the disbursement of school funds." The audit also stated that employee bonuses were given outside of payroll, and that educational assistants were paid as independent contractors.
      The accounting firm Carbonara CPAs and Management Group, which conducted the audit, made recommendations to correct irregularities and KLA responded with plans to come into compliance.
     According to the Charter School Commission, parents of KLA students  and the KLA staff will be notified of the situation this week. Public schools, Nā‘ālehu Elementary and Pāhala Elementary and Middle School would be required to accommodate the area students should KLA eventually close.
     The school audit and KLA's response can be read online.

GILLIGANS NIGHT WILL BENEFIT KA‘Ū LEARNING ACADEMY this Saturday, Dec. 2, from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. Gilligans Night is sponsored by The Innovation for Education Foundation. The location is the Charter School campus at the old Discovery Harbour Golf Course Clubhouse.

     Live music, pizza, chicken Parmesean and meatballs and pasta will be served, along with live music, beer and wine.
      All proceeds benefit Kaʻū Learning Academy. The Innovation for Education Foundation is a 501c3 public charity. See kaulearning.com and on Facebook.

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LIGHTS AND DECORATIONS OF THE STONE AND WOODEN COTTAGES at Kīlauea Military Camp are open for outdoor strolling within Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park through Friday, Jan. 1.
Vote on the best decorated cottage.  Park entrance fees apply. For more, call 967-8371 or visit kilaueamilitarycamp.com.

A Christmas past cabin decoration at KMC. The
contest is on again this year. Photo from KMC

ALOHA FRIDAY: ‘Ukulele with Wes Awana is Friday, Dec. 1, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the Volcano Art Center Gallery Porch in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. The free event features family-friendly lessons on ‘ukulele. Park entrance fees apply. For more, call 967-7565 or visit volcanoartcenter.org.

FIVE STEWARDSHIP AT THE SUMMIT events in which volunteers help remove invasive non-native plant species that prevent native plants from growing in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park take place this December. The first event is Friday, Dec. 1, with remaining events taking place Dec. 7, 15, 23, and 30. Volunteers should meet leaders Paul and Jane Field at Kīlauea Visitor Center in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park at 8:45 a.m. Free; park entrance fees apply. Fore more, visit nps.gov/HAVO.

HI‘IAKA & PELE, a free, moderate, one-mile walk through the Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, takes place Saturday, Dec. 2, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Discover the Hawaiian goddesses and the natural phenomena they represent. For more, visit nps.gov/HAVO.

VOLCANO FESTIVAL CHORUS hosts The Wonder of Christmas concert this Saturday, Dec. 2, at 7:30 pm at KMC's Kilauea Theater. The 25-member chorus, under direction of Roch Jones, will be accompanied by Walter Greenwood. Also joining the chorus will be Cheryl Shine on flute and piccolo, and Gillen Kauakahi on recorder.

     The Carols of Gathering by Joseph Martin will open the show and a medley of White Christmas and Happy Holiday by Irving Berlin will close the show. The program is varied and includes a spiritual Have You Heard the News?, an African Alleluia, an Irish Carol, and madrigals, All The Town Be Merry and Throw Open The Shutters. Popular carols Do You Hear What I Hear?, Ring, Christmas Bells and Pie Jesu are also featured. Admission is free; however, donations will be accepted.

JOIN RANGERS FOR A GUIDED HIKE, REALMS AND DIVISIONS OF KAHUKU, on Saturday, Dec. 2, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in the Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Experience the sense of place that evolves at the intersection of nature and culture on this moderately difficult two-mile, two-hour guided hike on the Kahuku Unit’s newest trail, Pu‘u Kahuku. Explore the realms and divisions of the traditional Hawaiian classification system at Kahuku. Bring a snack for the “talk story” segment of this hike.

TWO EIGHT WEEK SUNDAY CLAY - HIGH FIRE! SESSIONS with Erik Wold at Volcano Art Center start Sunday, Dec. 3, and continue through Feb. 4. The morning session takes place from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and the afternoon session from 2:45 p.m. to 5:45 p.m. No class will be held Dec. 24 or 31. The cost per Volcano Art Center member is $185, or $200 for each non-member, plus a $15 materials fee. The course includes six pounds of clay, including glazing and firing, with additional clay available for purchase. For more details, visit volcanoartcenter.org or call 967-7565.

HAM RADIO OPERATORS POTLUCK PICNIC is Sunday, Dec. 3, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at  Manukā Park. All American Radio Emergency Service members, anyone interested in learning how to operate a ham radio and families are invited to attend. For more, call Dennis Smith at 989-3028.

JOIN A GUIDED HIKE ALONG THE PALM TRAIL in the Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park on Sunday, Dec. 3, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The hike will also be offered on Dec. 23. Palm Trail is a moderately difficult 2.6-mile loop traversing scenic pastures along an ancient cinder cone, with some of the best panoramic views Kahuku has to offer. Highlights include relics of the ranching era, sections of remnant native forest and amazing volcanic features from the 1868 eruptive fissures.
     For more, visit nps.gov/HAVO.

HAWAI‘I COUNTY COUNCIL MEETS MONDAY, Dec. 4, for committee meetings and Tuesday, Dec. 5, and Wednesday, Dec. 20, for Council meetings. Ka‘ū residents can participate via videoconferencing at Nā‘ālehu State Office Building. Agendas at hawaiicounty.gov.

Mt. Rainier in the Cascade Volcanoes, which are the
topic of After Dark in the Park on Tuesday.
Photo by Samuel Kerr

OCEAN VIEW VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT MEETS Monday, Dec. 4, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., at Ocean View Community Center. For more, call 939-7033.

KA‘Ū COFFEE GROWERS COOPERATIVE MEETS TUESDAY, Dec. 5, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Pāhala Community Center.

DISCOVERY HARBOUR VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT MEETS Tuesday, Dec.  5, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Discovery Harbour Community Hall. For more, call 929-9576 or visit discoveryharbour.net.

CASCADE VOLCANOES BENEATH A SOLAR ECLIPSE is the After Dark in the Park talk that for Tuesday, Dec. 5, starting at 7 p.m. in the Kīlauea Visitor Center auditorium of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park.
     Learn about the volcanoes of the Cascade Range in Washington and Oregon - how often they erupt and why they can be more dangerous that volcanoes in Hawai’i. Park rangers share their stories of their adventures while visiting these majestic mountains during the total solar eclipse. Free, park entrance fees apply. For more see nps.gov/HAVO.

REGISTER KEIKI, GRADES K-8, UNTIL TUESDAY, DEC. 5, for a Mason Jar Lover Wreath Craft class planned for Wednesday, Dec. 6, from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Pāhala Community Center. For more call Nona Makuakane or Elijah Navarro at 928-3102 or visit hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation.

OPEN MIC NIGHT is Wednesday, Dec. 6, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Kīlauea Military Camp’s Lava Lounge in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Call 967-8365 after 4 p.m. to sign up. Open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests 21 years and older. Park entrance fees apply. Visit kilaueamilitarycamp.com for more details.

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Pahala Filipino Club President Hilaria Panglao in a past Pahala
Christmas Parade. This year's parade is Dec. 10
Photo by Julia Neal

ENTRIES FOR PĀHALA CHRISTMAS PARADE are welcomed. It is set for Sunday, Dec. 10, with participants touring the streets of Pāhala and winding up at the Holy Rosary Church on Pikake Street for treats and more entertainment. Produced by Eddie Andrade and family along with Mary Jane Balio for 39 years, the parade features Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus greeting parade goers with a Ho Ho Ho and throwing candies to the keiki. It features community groups, musicians, churches, businesses and schools, along with the Miss Ka‘ū Coffee court, walking and riding on floats, trucks and classic vehicles.
     The parade starts at 1 p.m. at the old Pāhala Armory and stops at houses throughout the village, making a stop for the staff and long-term care residents at Ka‘ū Hospital before arriving at the Catholic Church.
     Parade participants should start lining up by 12:30 p.m. To be involved - there are no entry fees for participants - call the Andrades at 928-0808.
     Sponsors of the parade also include the Edmund C. Olson Trust II.

CU HAWAI‘I FEDERAL CREDIT UNION OFFERS EMPLOYMENT as a Member Service Representative in Nā‘ālehu. CU Hawai‘i seeks energetic individuals for full time positions who enjoy working with people and can provide professional, courteous and efficient service to valued members.
     The ideal candidate must be service oriented and possess good communication and computer skills. Cash handling and customer service experience is preferred. Must be able to work Saturdays. CU Hawai‘i offers medical, drug, dental, vision and retirement benefits.
     Email, mail or fax application to: Attn: Human Resources, 476 Hinano Street Hilo, HI 96720, Fax: (808) 935-7793. Applications can be found online at cuhawaii.com/careers.html.

Ka‘ū News Briefs Wednesday, November 29, 2017

A cane truck helped celebrate the 2012 Plantation Days in front of the old mill site that will
be auctioned off on Dec. 20. Photo by Julia Neal

AN AUCTION IS SET FOR THE OLD KA‘Ū SUGAR MILL SITE on Maile Street in Pāhala. There is no upset price for the public auction at noon on Wednesday, Dec. 20 in Hilo. The Mill site includes the Radio Station Building, which currently houses the Hawai‘i Public Radio feed, and an old restaurant and store that was once the Office of Economic Opportunity, after the sugar plantation shut down.
     A proposal for a Ka‘ū Sugar Mill Park site is number ten on the county Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission list of lands for acquisition. However, the county is unable to consider buying it unless there is a willing seller, the price is no higher than the appraised value and the commission decides to proceed.

Clyde Sylva supports preservation of the

the Ka‘ū Sugar Mill.

Photo by Julia Neal

     The land also includes a metal warehouse, the mango orchard and house sites that were a neighborhood of sugar workers during more than 100 years of thriving Ka‘ū Sugar Co. plantation days in Pāhala. Remnants of old mill walls, waterways and smokestacks remain. The view from the property is of the ocean and the mountains behind Pāhala. The total acreage, according to the Notice of Foreclosure, is a 66 acre lot and a 0.06 acre lot - where OEO was located.
     The PONC application from a group of Pāhala citizens, who would like for the county to consider purchasing the old mill site, focused on the land as a historic site and a possible park for the community that could take pressure off Punalu‘u and Honu‘apo coastal parks.
     Pāhala resident Clyde Silva wrote about the sugar mill wall: “It would be most desirable to recognize one of the most significant structures in Pāhala town. This wall has been there for over 100 years and played a key role in the sugar cane production." Trucks full of cane drove up the ramp on one side of the wall, dropping their load over the wall as the first step in the processing. Truck after truck after truck went up beside the wall. It was important, and it is one of the few remaining structures from the sugar era. The wall is approximately 110 feet long, 12 feet in height, with the ramp about 20 feet wide.
     “There has been a sense of sadness as the town has watched this memorable structure decay.
     “This seems like the perfect time to plan for this symbol of the past, a symbol of our history to be a part of the plans. A part of the plans for the future," wrote Silva.

Old sugar mill wheel across from the mill site, now renamed
for Royal Hawaiian Orchards, a macadamia company.
Photo by Julia Neal

     The PONC application states: "The historic sugar mill site would make an excellent park for Pāhala with historic sites from sugar plantation days, the remains of the mill and three possible recreation buildings. The old plantation tunnel access to spring water could possibly be developed in the future for backup county water for the community in times of drought.
     "Ka‘ū Sugar Mill Park would also be a buffer between the macadamia processing plant and the residential town. In the long term, some of the open space could possibly become a county campground to take pressure off nearby Punalu‘u and to provide the closest campground to Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. A campground could also be used by groups coming to Pāhala for sports camps and competition at the new county owned Ka‘ū Gym, which is in walking distance."
     Recent plans for the place initiated by the ownership group that faces the foreclosure, included building a water bottling plant and shopping center with parking lots for tour buses and vans and cars and a giant water feature.
     The water to be bottled would have come from the old sugar mill spring with access through a tunnel that begins on the land and reaches a large chamber and water source across the street.
     When the water bottling plant developers approached the County Planning Department for approvals, the Sierra Club, Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund and Surfriders Foundation expressed opposition.

The Sierra Club circulated a flyer concerning the
proposed water bottling plant.

     Sierra Club objected to the taking of the spring water from Ka‘ū to export off island. Sierra Club pointed to its legal arm, Earthjustice, referencing a 2014 Hawai‘i Supreme Court decision in a Kaua‘i Springs versus Kaua‘i Planning Commission case. The decision, which upheld rejection of the bottling plant permit, "strongly reinforced principles that water is a public trust, and that private companies profiting off these resources bear the burden of justifying their diversions and showing the resources will not be unduly compromised...." The Sierra Club quoted the Hawai‘i Supreme Court: “No person or entity has automatic vested rights to water."
     Sierra Club also pointed to the use of plastic bottles: "80 percent of water bottles—38 billion a year—end up in landfills, not recycle bins, costing taxpayers money. Often caps can't be recycled. The PET (polyethylene terephthalate) from bottles doesn't biodegrade, but breaks down into tiny fragments. These absorb pollutants, which can contaminate water and the food chain," stated the Sierra Club.
     The auction will be held at noon on Wednesday, Dec. 20, at the entrance to Hale Kaulike, the Sate Judiciary Building in Hilo at 777 Kilauea Avenue.
     The court appointed commissioner is Attorney Louis P. Mendonca, who can be reached at 961-6690. An open house to view the property was held earlier this year.

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THE TRANSIENT ACCOMMODATIONS TAX for staying in B&B's, vacation rentals, condominiums and hotel rooms for less than six months goes up by 1 percent statewide on Jan. 1.
     The additional 1 percent charge to guests goes directly to fund the building of the railway on O‘ahu. An organization called Rental by Owner Awareness Association also points out that proposals could arise on Hawai‘i Island regarding limitation of vacation rentals, bed and breakfasts and Air BNB type accommodations to resort zoned properties.

     A statement from RBOAA says, "The County of Hawai‘i currently has little to no regulation concerning vacation rentals, however, there is movement toward some degree of regulation in the County. We aren't sure of the details yet, but there could be restrictions on rentals located on agricultural lands and general restrictions in the name of addressing homelessness and affordable housing. The latter might be addressed through a basic registration system and/or perhaps a property tax change. Vacation rentals could be restricted to resort zones."
     Television advertising, recently by Air BNB in the Hawaiian Islands, has defended such rentals with testimonials saying that they help older folks earn income to pay their bills and stay in their homes through vacation rentals and that the money earned stays in Hawai‘i. The ads show kūpuna hosting guests, Hawaiian style.
     A meeting was recently held in Ocean View to study any proposals to change rules and regulations of the accommodations business. RBOAA has posted a petition concerning protection of vacation rentals.

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.

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT AND NATURAL DISASTER infrastructure preparation are on the agenda, with Gov. David Ige in Phoenix, Arizona at the Western Governors’ Association’s winter meeting. Ige serves as WGA Vice Chair.

Gov. David Ige, center left, is Vice-Chair of the Western Governor's

Association and goes to the winter meeting in Phoenix Dec. 1 to 2.

Photo from Western Governors Association

     He plans to participate in discussions with U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue, U.S. Secretary of Labor Alexander Acosta and U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao. "The meetings will give the governor an opportunity to make the secretaries aware of the impact that various proposed legislation would have on Hawai‘i and other states," says a statement from Ige's office.
     In addition, the governor and members of his administration will travel to New York and San Francisco for meetings with Fitch Ratings, Standard & Poor’s and Moody’s, "in their continued effort to improve Hawai‘i’s financial ratings, lowering interest rates and saving taxpayer dollars," says the statement.
     The governor will be accompanied by First Lady Dawn Amano-Ige for the WGA portion of the trip. The cost of the governor’s trip is about $2,600. The first lady’s travel expenses will be covered with personal funds. Ige is scheduled to return to Honolulu on Tuesday, Dec. 5. Lt. Gov. Shan Tsutsui serves as acting governor during his absence.

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.

LEARN TAIKO DRUMMING FROM MASTER KENNY ENDO. He comes to Nā‘ālehu Public Library Thursday, Nov. 30, from 3:30 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. Endo and his famed Taiko Center of the Pacific ensemble will demonstrate and discuss taiko group and festival drumming.
     Recommended for ages five and older. Young children must be accompanied by a parent or adult caregiver. For more information, contact 939-2442.
     For a schedule of other upcoming library programs visit librarieshawaii.org/events.

ALOHA FRIDAY: ‘Ukulele with Wes Awana is Friday, Dec. 1, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the Volcano Art Center Gallery Porch in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. The free event features family-friendly lessons on ‘ukulele. Park entrance fees apply. For more, call 967-7565 or visit volcanoartcenter.org.

FIVE STEWARDSHIP AT THE SUMMIT events in which volunteers help remove invasive non-native plant species that prevent native plants from growing in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park take place this December. The first event is Friday, Dec. 1, with remaining events taking place Dec. 7, 15, 23, and 30. Volunteers should meet leaders Paul and Jane Field at Kīlauea Visitor Center in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park at 8:45 a.m. Free; park entrance fees apply. Fore more, visit nps.gov/HAVO.

Wes Awana, left, is well known in Ka‘ū as having played music

with Nona Wilson and Ty Chun.

HI‘IAKA & PELE, a free, moderate, one-mile walk through the Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, takes place Saturday, Dec. 2, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Discover the Hawaiian goddesses and the natural phenomena they represent. For more, visit nps.gov/HAVO.

VOLCANO FESTIVAL CHORUS hosts its 23rd The Wonder of Christmas concert Saturday, Dec. 2, at 7:30 pm at KMC's Kilauea Theater. The 25-member chorus is under the direction of Roch Jones with accompaniment by Walter Greenwood.
     Also joining the chorus will be Cheryl Shine on flute and piccolo, and Gillen Kauakahi on recorder.
     The Carols of Gathering by Joseph Martin will open the show and a medley of White Christmas and Happy Holiday by Irving Berlin will close the show. The program is varied and includes a spiritual Have You Heard the News?, an African Alleluia, an Irish Carol, and madrigals, All The Town Be Merry and Throw Open The Shutters. Popular carols Do You Hear What I Hear?, Ring, Christmas Bells and Pie Jesu are also featured.
     Admission is free; however, donations will be accepted.

JOIN RANGERS FOR A GUIDED HIKE, REALMS AND DIVISIONS OF KAHUKU, on Saturday, Dec. 2, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in the Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Experience the sense of place that evolves at the intersection of nature and culture on this moderately difficult two-mile, two-hour guided hike on the Kahuku Unit’s newest trail, Pu‘u Kahuku. Explore the realms and divisions of the traditional Hawaiian classification system at Kahuku. Bring a snack for the “talk story” segment of this hike.

GILLIGANS NIGHT WILL BENEFIT KA‘Ū LEARNING ACADEMY on Saturday, Dec. 2, from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., sponsored by The Innovation for Education Foundation. The location is the Charter School campus at the old Discovery Harbour Golf Course Clubhouse.
     Joe Iacuzzo, Managing Director of KLA, described it as: “Pizza, Chicken Parmesan and our famous meatballs and pasta (so good the meatballs come first!).” There will be live music. Beer and wine will be served. The Innovation for Education Foundation is a 501c3 public charity. See kaulearning.com and on Facebook.

HAM RADIO OPERATORS POTLUCK PICNIC is Sunday, Dec. 3, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Manukā Park. All American Radio Emergency Service members, anyone interested in learning how to operate a ham radio and families are invited to attend. For more, call Dennis Smith at 989-3028.

JOIN A GUIDED HIKE ALONG THE PALM TRAIL in the Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park on Sunday, Dec. 3, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The hike will also be offered on Dec. 23. Palm Trail is a moderately difficult 2.6-mile loop traversing scenic pastures along an ancient cinder cone, with some of the best panoramic views Kahuku has to offer. Highlights include relics of the ranching era, sections of remnant native forest and amazing volcanic features from the 1868 eruptive fissures.
For more, visit nps.gov/HAVO.

High Fire! is the name of the Eric Wold classes at Volcano Art Center.

Photo from Eric Wold

VOLCANO ART CENTER OFFERS TWO SUNDAYCLAY - HIGH FIRE! WITH ERIK WOLD eight week sessions to start Sunday, Dec. 3. The morning session takes place from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and the afternoon session from 2:45 p.m. to 5:45 p.m. No class will be held Dec. 24 or 31 and both sessions will end Feb. 4. The cost per Volcano Art Center member is $185, or $200 for each non-member, plus a $15 materials fee. The course includes six pounds of clay, including glazing and firing, with additional clay available for purchase. For more details, visit volcanoartcenter.org or call 967-7565.

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

HAWAI‘I COUNTY COUNCIL MEETS MONDAY, Dec. 4, for committee meetings and Tuesday, Dec. 5, and Wednesday, Dec. 20, for Council meetings. Ka‘ū residents can participate via videoconferencing at Nā‘ālehu State Office Building. Agendas at hawaiicounty.gov.

AN OCEAN VIEW VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT MEETING is scheduled for Monday, Dec. 4, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., at Ocean View Community Center. For more, call 939-7033.

Pāhala Preschool is a regular in the Pāhala Christmas Parade.

Photo by Julia Neal

A MASON JAR LOVER WREATH CRAFT CLASS will be Wednesday, Dec. 6, from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.at Pāhala Community Center. Register keiki grades K-8 until Tuesday, Dec. 5. For more call Nona Makuakane or Elijah Navarro at 928-3102 or visit hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation.

THE ANNUAL PĀHALA CHRISTMAS PARADE is accepting entries. It is scheduled for Sunday, Dec. 10, with participants touring the streets of Pāhala and winding up at the Holy Rosary Church on Pikake Street for treats and more entertainment. Produced by Eddie Andrade and family along with Mary Jane Balio for 39 years, the parade features Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus greeting parade goers with a Ho Ho Ho and throwing candies to the keiki. It features community groups, musicians, churches, businesses and schools, along with the Miss Ka‘ū Coffee court, walking and riding on floats, trucks and classic vehicles.
     The parade starts at 1 p.m. at the old Pāhala Armory and stops at houses throughout the village, making a stop for the staff and long-term care residents at Ka‘ū Hospital before arriving at the Catholic Church.
     Parade participants should start lining up by 12:30 p.m. To be involved - there are no entry fees for participants - call the Andrades at 928-0808.
     Sponsors of the parade also include the Edmund C. Olson Trust II.

CU HAWAI‘I FEDERAL CREDIT UNION OFFERS EMPLOYMENT as a Member Service Representative in Nā‘ālehu. CU Hawai‘i seeks energetic individuals for full time positions who enjoy working with people and can provide professional, courteous and efficient service to valued members.
     The ideal candidate must be service oriented and possess good communication and computer skills. Cash handling and customer service experience is preferred. Must be able to work Saturdays. CU Hawai‘i offers medical, drug, dental, vision and retirement benefits.
     Email, mail or fax application to: Attn: Human Resources, 476 Hinano Street Hilo, HI 96720, Fax: (808) 935-7793. Applications can be found online at cuhawaii.com/careers.html.

Ka‘ū News Brief Tuesday, November 28, 2017

The Nature Conservancy, which owns and manages the Kamehame Hawksbill Turtle Preserve and other lands 
in Ka‘ū, is a Giving Tuesday partner. Photo by Geneveve Fyvie 

TODAY, NOV. 28, IS GIVING TUESDAY, the international campaign launched in 2012 by the United Nations Foundation and a YMCA in New York City. The day of charity has spread around the world and provides an opportunity for people to spend money on good causes, just after much spending for gifts and for oneself on Black Friday, Small Business Saturday and CyberMonday. The number of non-profits asking for help on Giving Tuesday has grown from 2,500 in all 50 states during its first year to 40,000 partners in the U.S. and around the planet.

     This day of giving, volunteerism and service is named in a U.S. House of Representatives resolution introduced this Tuesday by Hawai‘i Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard and Texas Congressman Will Hurd.

      “Every single day – and especially today on #GivingTuesday – we have the opportunity to reflect on all that we’re grateful for, and pay it forward,” said Gabbard. “Whether it’s donating your time, your talents, or a part of your paycheck, we all can find a way to give back to the causes in our communities that inspire us. As we work to overcome divisiveness and hatred, the spirit of #GivingTuesday is an opportunity to work together in the spirit of aloha and be a force for peace and positive change across our world.”

Grassman Macadamia Nut Farm on Lorenzo Road in Ka‘ū was
placed in agricultural conservation with help from Hawai‘i
 Islands Land Trust, a Giving Tuesday partner.
Photo from Hawai‘i Islands Land Trust

     The Texas Republican congressman said, “During the season of giving, it is important to remember that much more unites us than divides us. If we focus on these things as Americans, we can continue to be the greatest nation in the world. Giving Tuesday is the perfect example of how we come together to help those in need, and I’m proud to work across the aisle with Rep. Gabbard to make the designation of this important day official.”

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.

GIVING TUESDAY ORGANIZATIONS WITH KA‘Ū SERVICES, asking for assistance, include the following with their online links provided:

         Agricultural Leadership Foundation of Hawai‘i, which helps train future leaders in farming and ranching;
        Boys & Girls Club, which provides after-school education, physical fitness and recreation for children in Ka‘ū;

        Sierra Club of Hawai‘i, which advocates for clean water, air and land;

        Habitat for Humanity, which helps families become homeowners with their own sweat equity;

        Hawai‘i Farmers Union United, which supports family farms;

        Hawai‘i Foodbank, which provides help for Hawai‘i Island Food Bank, Ka‘ū Food Pantry and other food services in Ka‘ū;

Tūtū & Me and its parent organization Partners in Development
are Giving Tuesday partners and frequent participants in the
Pāhala Christmas Parade, this year on Sunday, Dec. 10.
Photo by Julia Neal

        Hawai‘i Islands Land Trust, which helps preserve conservation and farmlands;

        Hawai‘i Public Radio, which provides Civil Defense communications and two stations with programming in Ka‘ū;

        Hawai‘i Wildfire Management Organization, which helps train communities in protection from wildfires through education and planting fire resistant barriers;

        Hui Mālama Ola Nā ‘Ōiwi, which provides health care and counseling, focusing on Native Hawaiians;

        Ka‘ū Hospital Charitable Foundation, which raises money for equipment and facilities and programs at the hospital;

        National Kidney Foundation of Hawai‘i, which educates the public about kidney health and provides services for kidney care;

        PARENTS, INC., which helps train families for healthy living;

        Partners in Development,  which provides Tūtū & Me Traveling Preschool programs and foster care services;
        PBS Hawai‘i, which provides educational T.V. with local programming;

Hui Mālama Ola Nā ‘Ōiwi is a Giving Tuesday partner that provides Native
Hawaiian health care and is a regular participant in the Pāhala 
Christmas Parade, this year on Sunday, Dec. 10. Photo by Julia Neal

        Peoples Advocacy for Trails Hawai‘i, which helps secure access to the ocean, the mountain and other outdoor places; and

        The Nature Conservancy, which protects native species, natural resources and open spaces.      
      For a complete list of partners worldwide, see givingtuesday.org.

   
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.
             

HELCO ENCOURAGES GIFTING through "giving family members and friends – or anyone in need – a payment toward their electric bills by using the ʻOhana Energy Gift Program offered by Hawaiian Electric, Maui Electric and Hawaiʻi Electric Light. 

      "The ʻOhana Energy Gift is offered year-round as a practical way to help someone in need, but is an especially thoughtful gesture during the holidays," says a statement from Hawaiian Electric Co., parent of Hawai‘i Electric Light Co. 

        The process: Print out and complete the ʻOhana Energy Gift Form and mail the completed form along with a check, cashier’s check or money order payable to Hawaiʻi Electric Light.  
     The printable gift form and the address where the form and payment should be sent can be found at Hawai‘i Electric Light ʻOhana Energy Gift Program. The Hawai‘i Electric Light webpage also lists drop-off locations for each utility. 

      Once received, the gift will be processed within two business days unless otherwise specified. Please note that the ʻOhana Energy Gifts are not tax-deductible donations. You will receive an acknowledgement letter once your designated recipient’s account information is verified and the gift amount has been applied. 

     Recipients will receive a notification letter once the gift amount has been applied. Anonymous donations are also accepted. 

      For more information, email helcopayproc@hawaiielectriclight.com. 

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

LEARN TAIKO DRUMMING FROM MASTER KENNY ENDO. He comes to Nā‘ālehu Public Library Thursday, Nov. 30, from 3:30 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. Endo and his famed Taiko Center of the Pacific ensemble will demonstrate and discuss taiko group and festival drumming.
     Recommended for ages five and older. Young children must be accompanied by a parent or adult caregiver. For more information, contact 939-2442.
     For a schedule of other upcoming library programs visit librarieshawaii.org/events.

ALOHA FRIDAY: ‘Ukulele with Wes Awana is Friday, Dec. 1, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the Volcano Art Center Gallery Porch in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. The free event features family-friendly lessons on ‘ukulele. Park entrance fees apply. For more, call 967-7565 or visit volcanoartcenter.org.

FIVE STEWARDSHIP AT THE SUMMIT events in which volunteers help remove invasive non-native plant species that prevent native plants from growing in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park take place this December. The first event is Friday, Dec. 1, with remaining events taking place Dec. 7, 15, 23, and 30. Volunteers should meet leaders Paul and Jane Field at Kīlauea Visitor Center in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park at 8:45 a.m. Free; park entrance fees apply. Fore more, visit nps.gov/HAVO.

HI‘IAKA & PELE, a free, moderate, one-mile walk through the Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, takes place Saturday, Dec. 2, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Discover the Hawaiian goddesses and the natural phenomena they represent. For more, visit nps.gov/HAVO.

VOLCANO FESTIVAL CHORUS hosts its 23rd The Wonder of Christmas concert Saturday, Dec. 2, at 7:30 pm at KMC's Kilauea Theater. The 25-member chorus is under the direction of Roch Jones with accompaniment by Walter Greenwood.
Also joining the chorus will be Cheryl Shine on flute and piccolo, and Gillen Kauakahi on recorder.
     The Carols of Gathering by Joseph Martin will open the show and a medley of White Christmas and Happy Holiday by Irving Berlin will close the show. The program is varied and includes a spiritual Have You Heard the News?, an African Alleluia, an Irish Carol, and madrigals, All The Town Be Merry and Throw Open The Shutters. Popular carols Do You Hear What I Hear?, Ring, Christmas Bells and Pie Jesu are also featured.
     Admission is free; however, donations will be accepted.

GILLIGANS NIGHT WILL BENEFIT KA‘Ū LEARNING ACADEMY: Gilligans Cafe is back on Saturday, Dec. 2, from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. with a special Gilligans Night, sponsored by The Innovation for Education Foundation, to benefit Kaʻū Learning Academy. The location is the Charter School campus at the old Discovery Harbour Golf Course Clubhouse.

     Joe Iacuzzo, Managing Director of KLA, described it as: “Pizza, Chicken Parmesan and our famous meatballs and pasta (so good the meatballs come first!).” There will be live music. Beer and wine will be served. All proceeds benefit Kaʻū Learning Academy. The Innovation for Education Foundation is a 501c3 public charity. See kaulearning.com and on Facebook.

JOIN RANGERS FOR A GUIDED HIKE, REALMS AND DIVISIONS OF KAHUKU, on Saturday, Dec. 2, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in the Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Experience the sense of place that evolves at the intersection of nature and culture on this moderately difficult two-mile, two-hour guided hike on the Kahuku Unit’s newest trail, Pu‘u Kahuku. Explore the realms and divisions of the traditional Hawaiian classification system at Kahuku. Bring a snack for the “talk story” segment of this hike.

Eric Wold teaches eight weeks of High Fire clay classes beginning
Sunday, Dec. 3. Photo from Eric Wold

VOLCANO ART CENTER OFFERS TWO SUNDAY CLAY - HIGH FIRE! WITH ERIK WOLD eight week sessions to start Sunday, Dec. 3. The morning session takes place from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and the afternoon session from 2:45 p.m. to 5:45 p.m. No class will be held Dec. 24 or 31 and both sessions will end Feb. 4. The cost per Volcano Art Center member is $185, or $200 for each non-member, plus a $15 materials fee. The course includes six pounds of clay, including glazing and firing, with additional clay available for purchase. For more details, visit volcanoartcenter.org or call 967-7565.

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

A MASON JAR LOVER WREATH CRAFT CLASS has been announced for Wednesday, Dec. 6, from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Pāhala Community Center. Register keiki grades K-8 until Tuesday, Dec. 5. For more call Nona Makuakane or Elijah Navarro at 928-3102 or visit hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation.

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.

Ham Radio photo from eBay.com

HAM RADIO OPERATORS POTLUCK PICNIC is Sunday, Dec. 3, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at  Manukā Park. All American Radio Emergency Service members, anyone interested in learning how to operate a ham radio and families are invited to attend. For more, call Dennis Smith at 989-3028.

JOIN A GUIDED HIKE ALONG THE PALM TRAIL in the Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park on Sunday, Dec. 3, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The hike will also be offered on Dec. 23. Palm Trail is a moderately difficult 2.6-mile loop traversing scenic pastures along an ancient cinder cone, with some of the best panoramic views Kahuku has to offer. Highlights include relics of the ranching era, sections of remnant native forest and amazing volcanic features from the 1868 eruptive fissures.
     For more, visit nps.gov/HAVO.

HAWAI‘I COUNTY COUNCIL MEETS MONDAY, Dec. 4 for committee meetings and Tuesday, Dec. 5, and Wednesday, Dec. 20, for Council meetings. Ka‘ū residents can participate via videoconferencing at Nā‘ālehu State Office Building. Agendas at hawaiicounty.gov.

AN OCEAN VIEW VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT MEETING is scheduled for Monday, Dec. 4, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., at Ocean View Community Center. For more, call 939-7033.

Pāhala Christmas Parade is Sunday, Dec. 10. Vintage cars, floats,
walking groups invited. Call 928-0808.

THE ANNUAL PĀHALA CHRISTMAS PARADE is accepting entries. It is scheduled for Sunday, Dec. 10, with participants touring the streets of Pāhala and winding up at the Holy Rosary Church on Pikake Street for treats and more entertainment. Produced by Eddie Andrade and family along with Mary Jane Balio for 39 years, the parade features Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus greeting parade goers with a Ho Ho Ho and throwing candies to the keiki. It features community groups, musicians, churches, businesses and schools, along with the Miss Ka‘ū Coffee court, walking and riding on floats, trucks and classic vehicles.
     The parade starts at 1 p.m. at the old Pāhala Armory and stops at houses throughout the village, making a stop for the staff and long-term care residents at Ka‘ū Hospital before arriving at the Catholic Church.
     Parade participants should start lining up by 12:30 p.m. To be involved - there are no entry fees for participants - call the Andrades at 928-0808.
     Sponsors of the parade also include the Edmund C. Olson Trust II.

Ka‘ū News Briefs Monday, November 27, 2017

The heaviest boar was captured by Team 12 led by Tyrell Mason, of Ka‘ū, weighing in at 150 lbs.
See story below. Photo by Guy Sesson

ENCOURAGING THE COMMUNITY TO BUY LOCAL FOR THE HOLIDAYS while promoting and supporting small businesses of Ka‘ū was the goal of the second annual Small Business Saturday on Nov. 26 at Ka Lae Coffee and Hawaiian Flowers Orchid Farm on South Point Road.

Holiday wreaths made by Pom Pom Proteas were on
display and for sale at this year's Small Business Saturday
at Ka Lae Coffee shop and Hawaiian Flowers orchid farm
on South Point Road. Photo by Kate Haynes

       Ka Lae Coffee owner Kate Haynes and Heidi's LuLaRoe owner Heidi Flores co-hosted the public event on the grounds of Ka Lae Coffee shop and Hawaiian Flowers orchid farm. Participants included: J&J Farms, MoLaEa Mountain Farm, Karen Duserbery doTerra Wellness Advocate, Heidi's LuLaRoe, Sticks and Stones, CROOKed C Ranch, Hawaiian Inspired Jewelry by Malta, Hawaiian Grinds, Fresh Pit, Nucerity, Tropical Trappings, Abundant Health Acupuncture, Massage with Lori Boyle, Kanahele Jewelry, Salty Mermaid, Pom Pom Protea, Navarro Farms, Ohia Soap Lodge and an effort called Jonah Beck World Stride Washington D.C. spring 2018. Ocean View resident Layne Mills serenaded event attendees as she played her guitar and sold homemade jewelry.
     The event was hosted from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and will likely be hosted again in 2018 on Small Business Saturday, the day after Black Friday.  

     The location of Ka Lae Coffee and Hawaiian Flowers is 94-2166 South Point Road.

Vendors displayed their wares at the Small Business Saturday
event that took place Nov. 26. See story above.
Photo by Kate Haynes

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

CHANGING THE DEMOCRATIC PARTY is the call by Rep. Tulsi Gabbard and Sen. Tim Kaine, who was the Democratic Party's nominee for Vice President in 2016. According to Gabbard, "Political outsiders, independents, and grassroots activists are not the only ones who have grown disillusioned with insider Democratic Party politics." She said that Kaine "is joining our call for the DNC Unity Reform Commission to eliminate superdelegates from the primary process. With his announcement, we have gained an important ally in our effort to ensure a more transparent, open, and democratic primary process."

     Gabbard said, however, the effort needs "all of the support we can get before the final Unity Reform Commission meeting on December 8. She asks for Democrats in Ka‘ū and the rest of her Congressional District to sign on to a petition calling for DNC reform. Gabbard said, "We need a primary process that is decided by the voters, not predetermined by party insiders."

Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, right, and Sen. Tim Kaine, left, on fact finding
mission to the Middle East in 2015. Kaine and Gabbard are
working on a campaign to change the Democratic Party.

    The Congresswoman stated, "Doing what is right should always outweigh political ambition or partisanship. For me, this has sometimes put me at odds with the Democratic Party establishment, and compelled my resignation as DNC Vice-Chair during the last presidential primary to endorse Senator Bernie Sanders. We must come together to put the strength of our democracy and the future of our country first and foremost, and work to make necessary reforms."

      She said that in addition to eliminating the superdelegate process, "we must also commit to open primaries and caucuses or same-day registration, and create more transparent, accountable processes that do not unduly favor one campaign or candidate."

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.

RESULTS FOR THE KA‘Ū MULTICULTURAL SOCIETY PIG HUNT are official. The islandwide tournament with weigh-in at Wai‘ōhinu Park on Nov. 18, a No-Guns event, was organized by Darlyne Vierra, President of Ka‘ū Multicultural Society, Secretary/Treasurer Liz Kuluwaimaka, and Kalani Vierra.

     The Over-All Pua‘a prize for heaviest pig went to Team 17, led by Kyle Swett, from Volcano and Puna. It weighed in at 199.6 lbs.

Noah E. won the Packing Contest after the hunt. Photo by Guy Sesson

     Heaviest Boar/Laho‘ole came in with Team 12 at 150 lbs. with winning team headed by Tyrell Mason, of Ka‘ū. Second was Team 3, led by Royden Requelman, of Puna, with a 138.8 lb boar. Third was Team 19, led by Derek Nakagawa, of Ka‘ū with a 123.6 lb. boar.

     Heaviest Sow came in with Team 13, led by Aaron Gomes, of South Kona at 123 lbs. Second was a 112.4 lb sow, from Team 2, led by Kaipu Ka‘upu, of Holualoa in Kona. Third was Team 8, led by Johnathan Roddy, of Ka‘ū, with a 109.8 lb sow.

     Biggest Tusk winner was Team 20, led by Rodney Kuahiwinui, Sr., of Ka‘ū. It measured 5.25 inches length. Second was Team 15, led by Dedrick Saplan, of Ka‘ū. It measured 4.75 inches. Third was team 7, led by Frank Lorenzo, Jr, of Ka‘ū. The tusk measured 4.25 inches.

     The Packing Contest, in which the hunter ran with the pig, saw Noah E. coming in first. Rodney Kuahiwinui, Jr. was second and Aaron Gomes third.

     Thomas Mochizuki, of Volcano and Puna, won the Smoke Meat Contest.

Kalani Viera, second to right, organized the hunt and
Royden Requelman, right, won a gun.
Photo by Guy Sesson

     Donors included Kona Reload, Kula Kai Caverns, Hardwoods Hawai‘i, KTA of Keauhou, Mt. View Minimart, Pepsi of Kona, Blacksandsbeach.com, J.W. Glover, Oshiam, Doris Place, Ace Hardware-Nā‘ālehu, BYE-William Derasin, Navarro Coffee Farm, Rambla Clothing Co, Moke Banister, and Nadine and Aaron Kahananui.

     Supporters in providing the sign-up entries were ACE Hardware, Wikiwiki Mart, Ka‘ū Gas, R&G Mini Mart, Kaʻū Business Services LLP, Kahuku Gifts and Garden Shop; Delʻs Feed Store, Miranda's and Hilo Surplus Store; Aloha Gas; J. Hara's Store Inc.; Pearl's, Oshima's, Mauka Napa, Lako St. Chevron, Fujihara's Store and Paul's Place.

     For more information about next year's event contact Drey Desas at avdesas@yahoo.com, Robert Chun at bigkaufarms@gmail.com, Liz Kuluwaimaka at konawaileo@yahoo.com, or Darlyne Vierra at dvierra22@gmail.com.

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

KA‘Ū FOOD PANTRY is open for those who need food on Tuesday, Nov. 28, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at St. Jude's Episcopal Church in Ocean View. Food for three days is provided to help those short of money, benefits and nutrition at the month's end. Donations of non-perishables and money are welcome. Send to Ka‘ū Food Pantry, P.O. Box 6184, Ocean View, HI 96737 or drop by the church at 92-8606 Paradise Circle, on the corner of Keaka Parkway. For more, call 939-7000 or visit stjudeshawaii.org.

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.

HOVE ROAD MAINTENANCE BOARD OF DIRECTORS meets Tuesday, Nov. 28, at 10 a.m., in the HOVE Road Maintenance Corp. office. For more, call 929-9910.

LEARN TAIKO DRUMMING FROM MASTER KENNY ENDO. He comes to Nā‘ālehu Public Library Thursday, Nov. 30, from 3:30 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. Endo and his Taiko Center of the Pacific ensemble will demonstrate and discuss taiko group and festival drumming.
     Recommended for ages five and older. Young children must be accompanied by a parent or adult caregiver. For more information, contact 939-2442.
     For a schedule of other upcoming library programs visit librarieshawaii.org/events.

ALOHA FRIDAY: ‘Ukulele with Wes Awana is Friday, Dec. 1, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the Volcano Art Center Gallery Porch in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. The free event features family-friendly lessons on ‘ukulele. Park entrance fees apply. For more, call 967-7565 or visit volcanoartcenter.org.

FIVE STEWARDSHIP AT THE SUMMIT events in which volunteers help remove invasive non-native plant species that prevent native plants from growing in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park take place this December. The first event is Friday, Dec. 1, with remaining events taking place Dec. 7, 15, 23, and 30. Volunteers should meet leaders Paul and Jane Field at Kīlauea Visitor Center in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park at 8:45 a.m. Free; park entrance fees apply. Fore more, visit nps.gov/HAVO.

HI‘IAKA & PELE, a free, moderate, one-mile walk through the Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, takes place Saturday, Dec. 2, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Discover the Hawaiian goddesses and the natural phenomena they represent. For more, visit nps.gov/HAVO.

VOLCANO FESTIVAL CHORUS will host its 23rd The Wonder of Christmas concert Saturday, Dec. 2, at 7:30 pm at KMC's Kilauea Theater. The 25-member chorus is under the direction of Roch Jones with accompaniment by Walter Greenwood.
Also joining the chorus will be Cheryl Shine on flute and piccolo, and Gillen Kauakahi on recorder.
     The Carols of Gathering by Joseph Martin will open the show and a medley of White Christmas and Happy Holiday by Irving Berlin will close the show. The program is varied and includes a spiritual Have You Heard the News?, an African Alleluia, an Irish Carol, and madrigals, All The Town Be Merry and Throw Open The Shutters. Popular carols Do You Hear What I Hear?, Ring, Christmas Bells and Pie Jesu are also featured.
     Admission is free; however, donations will be accepted.

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.

JOIN RANGERS FOR A GUIDED HIKE, REALMS AND DIVISIONS OF KAHUKU, on Saturday, Dec. 2, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in the Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Experience the sense of place that evolves at the intersection of nature and culture on this moderately difficult two-mile, two-hour guided hike on the Kahuku Unit’s newest trail, Pu‘u Kahuku. Explore the realms and divisions of the traditional Hawaiian classification system at Kahuku. Bring a snack for the “talk story” segment of this hike.

GILLIGANS NIGHT WILL BENEFIT KA‘Ū LEARNING ACADEMY: Gilligans Cafe is back on Saturday, Dec. 2, from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. with a special Gilligans Night, sponsored by The Innovation for Education Foundation, to benefit Kaʻū Learning Academy. The location is the Charter School campus at the old Discovery Harbour Golf Course Clubhouse.

     Joe Iacuzzo, Managing Director of KLA, described it as: “Pizza, Chicken Parmesan and our famous meatballs and pasta (so good the meatballs come first!).” There will be live music. Beer and wine will be served. All proceeds benefit Kaʻū Learning Academy. The Innovation for Education Foundation is a 501c3 public charity. See kaulearning.com and on Facebook.

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A CHRISTMAS CONCERT AT OCEAN VIEW COMMUNITY CENTER on Friday, Dec. 22, has been announced by Lamb of God Baptist Church. It begins at 7 p.m. The event is free to all and highlights include refreshments and gifts for children in attendance.

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CU HAWAI‘I FEDERAL CREDIT UNION OFFERS EMPLOYMENT as a Member Service Representative in Nā‘ālehu. CU Hawai‘i seeks energetic individuals for full time positions who enjoy working with people and can provide professional, courteous and efficient service to valued members.
     The ideal candidate must be service oriented and possess good communication and computer skills. Cash handling and customer service experience is preferred. Must be able to work Saturdays. CU Hawai‘i offers medical, drug, dental, vision and retirement benefits.
     Email, mail or fax application to: Attn: Human Resources, 476 Hinano Street Hilo, HI 96720, Fax: (808) 935-7793. Applications can be found online at cuhawaii.com/careers.html.