Ka‘ū News Brief Monday, April 30, 2018

Kīlauea Rumbling
Successive small earthquakes, with one every few minutes, began at 4 p .m. today on the east flank of Kīlauea
Volcano with two dozen in about three hours and even more later in the evening.. The red dots were earthquakes
 over a two-hour period. See more at Hawaiian Volcano Observatory

MAYOR HARRY KIM RETURNED TO WORK TODAY, after suffering perhaps two heart attacks between Thursday and over the weekend. He was medevacked to Queen's Medical on O‘ahu for chest pains Thursday morning. Kim told Nancy Cook Lauer of West Hawai‘i Today, that one of the valves from his 2008 triple bypass collapsed, explaining that they only have a ten-year lifespan.

Mayor Harry Kim, back at work 
after possibly two heart attacks last 
week. Photo shows him walking in the 
Nāʻālehu Independence Day parade.
Photo by William Neal 

     Kim is a serious worker, waking up early and finishing late at night. He was exercising on Thursday before dawn when he felt the symptoms and drove himself to the hospital. According to the report from Cook Lauer, the mayor said he hasn't been getting enough rest, and eats only one meal each day. He told her that the heart attacks have caused doctors to put him on medication and that he doesn't want to take it, but, "I know my body. I know what works. I know what I have to do."

     Lauer reported Managing Director Wil Okabe, Acting Mayor while Kim was absent, saying that he was somewhat surprised to see the mayor back so soon: "What really impresses me is his dedication to the county. He's driven to help the community." Okabe said he and the staff are doing their best to lighten Kim's workload by taking on more duties, Lauer reported. "I'm going to do everything I can to help him," Okabe said, "to take the load off."     

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.

MOST BILLS ARE DEAD, SOME PASSED, AND OTHERS ARE STILL KICKING, with the 2018 Hawaiʻi Legislature wrapping up its work in May. Some of the highlights:

Governor David Ige signed the Death
with Dignity bill, Act 002, into law.

   - House Bill 2739, DEATH WITH DIGNITY has been signed into law by Gov. David Ige. Act 002 establishes a regulated process under which an adult resident of the State with a medically confirmed terminal disease and less than six months to live may choose to obtain a prescription for medication to end the patient's life. The bill imposes criminal sanctions for tampering with a patient's request for a prescription or coercing a patient to request a prescription. Rep. Richard Creagan, who serves east Kaʻū, and Sen. Russel Ruderman were keen supporters of the measure. Sen. Josh Green also voted for it.

   - Senate Bill 3095, CHLORPYRIFOS BAN and more pesticide regulation is sponsored by Sen. Josh Green, Sen. Russell Ruderman, and supported by Rep. Richard Creagan. It is scheduled for a hearing tomorrow, May 1, at the Capitol.
     The measure would require, beginning Jan. 1, reporting use of

Sen. Russell Ruderman introduced a bill to
ban chlorpyrifos. Bill goes to final vote tomorrow.

restricted pesticides to the state Department of Agriculture. It would also prohibit using a restricted-use pesticide on or within 100 feet of a school during normal school hours. It would ban the use of pesticides containing chlorpyrifos as an active ingredient beginning Jan. 1. However, the Department of Agriculture would be able to offer any person, upon request, a temporary permit allowing the use of pesticides containing chlorpyrifos through 12/31/2022.
     The bill would require depositing into the pesticide use revolving fund all penalties and fines collected under the Hawaii Pesticides Law. It would also require the ag department to develop a pesticide drift monitoring study no later than 7/1/2019.
      The bill would fund the pesticide drift monitoring study, two full-time positions, and outreach and education on pesticides.

   - Senate Bill 2990, PAID FAMILY LEAVE is scheduled for a

Rep. Josh Green cosponsored bill to ban
chlorpyrifos. Bill goes to final vote tomorrow.

hearing tomorrow, May 1. It would require the Legislative Reference Bureau to conduct a sunrise analysis of the impacts of and best framework for the establishment of paid family leave. The measure would require a report and proposed legislation be submitted to the legislature by 9/1/2019. The bill appropriates funds for the study.
   - House Bill 2442, ABANDONED VEHICLES is scheduled for a hearing tomorrow, May 1. It would require the counties to take into custody any abandoned vehicle on a public road within ten business days. It would require written notice to the registered owner of an abandoned vehicle under section 290-2, Hawai‘i Revised Statutes, applying to vehicles reported stolen. It would amend the definition of a derelict vehicle and repeal the requirement that abandoned vehicles be disposed of by public auction.

     With no action planned in the near future, the following bills could stall at the 2018 Hawai‘i Legislature: Senate Bill 2928, FARM TO SCHOOL GRANT; House Bill 2497 companion to SB2928; Senate Bill 2563, K-12 AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION; House Bill 2115 companion to SB2563; Senate Bill 1235, HILO MEDICAL CARDIAC UPGRADES; Senate Bill 2340, HAWAI‘I STATE HEALTHCARE; House Bill 2126 companion to SB2340; Senate Bill 2328, OPEN EDUCATION SOURCES AT UNIVERSITY OF HAWAI‘I; Senate Bill 2329, UH COST CAP; Senate Bill 2703, SPINLAUNCH; House Bill 2559 companion to SB2703; Senate Bill 2387, FARM TO SCHOOL PROGRAM; Senate Bill 2399, HAWAI‘I INVASIVE SPECIES; Senate Bill 2561, DLNR FUNDING; House Bill 2101 companion to SB2561; Senate Bill 3076, SOLAR FACILITY PERMITTING; House Bill 2665 companion to SB3076; House Billl 1757, COFFEE LABELING; Senate Bill 2276, CHILDREN WELFARE CASELOAD LIMITS; House Bill 2990 companion to SB2990; House Bill 1585, MANAGEMENT OF MAUNAKEA; House Bill 1585, MANAGEMENT OF MAUNAKEA; Senate Bill 2963, AIRBNB; House Bill 2605 companion to SB2963; Senate Bill 2479, ABANDONED VEHICLES.

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.

Bolo returns to Kaʻū this weekend to entertain
at Hoʻoauleʻa. Details, right. Photo from Bolo

BOLO WILL JOIN THE HO‘OLAULE‘A ENTERTAINMENT LINEUP during the Tenth Annual Ka‘ū Coffee Festival this Saturday, May 5 at Pahala Community Center. Other entertainers are: Ho‘aikāne, emcee Makana Kamahele, Hands of Time, Hannah's Makana ‘Ohana Halau, Shootz, Halau Hula O Leionalani, Keaiwa & Demetrius, El Leo - The Jarican Express, The Lucky Lizard Band, Backyahd Braddahs, Christy Keinaʻala Lassiter.

     The Ho‘olaule‘a will be from 9 a.m - 5 p.m. at Pāhala Community Center. The Miss Ka‘ū Coffee court will make an appearance. There is free admission with music, hula, and coffee tastings all day long. Food, beverage, and creative arts will be sold by local vendors. Nonprofit organizations will educate the public.
     Enter the Buy Local contest by visiting festival sponsors and redeeming purchase receipts, product labels, and business cards for chances to earn cash and prizes.

     All activities are open to the public.
     Festival activities before the Ho‘olaule‘a include Wednesday's sold-out Ka‘ū Mountain Water System Hike. Still available are Thursday's Ka‘ū Valley Farms Tour and Friday's Ka‘ū Coffee & Cattle Day - see below, and KauCoffeeFest.com. Star Gazing on Friday is also sold out.

     Ka‘ū Coffee Festival organizers issued a statement about the famous coffee: "Founded in coffee traditions dating back to the 1800s - combined with the hard work of former sugar plantation workers - Ka‘ū coffee burst onto the specialty coffee scene by winning numerous coffee quality awards. These accolades highlight the unique combination of people and place that makes Ka‘ū coffee a favorite across the globe. The festival's mission is to raise awareness of Ka‘ū as a premium, coffee-growing origin."

     For more information and festival updates, visit kaucoffeefest.com, follow Ka‘ū Coffee Festival on Facebook and @kaucoffeefest on Twitter, or call 808-929-9550.

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 Valley Farm Tour event for Ka‘ū Coffee Festival happens 

Thursday. See details, left. Photo from Ka‘ū Valley Farm

THURSDAY'S KAʻŪ COFFEE FESTIVAL EVENTS feature a new one, the Ka‘ū Valley Farms Tour,  9 a.m. - 2 p.m., Ka‘alaiki Rd, Nā‘ālehu. Explore hydroponic nursery, and tea and coffee plantings. Expansive hilltop views, mountain to coast. Includes water systems and tunnels from sugar days, and native Hawaiian forest tour. $35 per person; includes lunch. Reservations required. John Cross, 987-4229; Brenda Iokepa-Moses, 731-5409.
     Innovations in Coffee Pulping from Colombia will be held from 5 p.m. on Thursday, May 3, at Pāhala Plantation House.

FRIDAY'S KAʻŪ COFFEE FESTIVAL EVENTS
     Ka‘ū Coffee & Cattle Day, Friday, May 4, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Aikane Plantation Coffee Company. Tour the farm and learn how coffee is integrated into cattle ranching and other agriculture. $25 per person; includes BBQ buffet and hayride. Reservations required, 927-2252. aikaneplantation.com

SATURDAY'S KAʻŪ COFFEE FESTIVAL EVENTS 

     Tenth Annual Ka‘ū Coffee Festival Ho‘olaule‘a, Saturday, May 5, 9 a.m - 5 p.m. p.m., Pāhala Community Center. Celebrate Ka‘ū Coffee with free music, hula entertainment, and coffee tastings all day long. Local vendor booths. Food and beverage sales. Free to attend. Ka‘ū Coffee Experience: 9:30-noon, 1-3:30 p.m., discover the methods behind brewing the perfect cup while enjoying free coffee tastings. Farm & Mill Tours 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., $20/person.

SUNDAY'S KAʻŪ COFFEE FESTIVAL EVENTS

     Ka‘ū Coffee College, Sun, May 6, 9-noon, Pāhala Community Center. Informative talks given by visiting coffee experts. Free; donations appreciated.
     See kaucoffeefestival.com
        The Fuji Royal, Ltd. Mini Roaster from Japan - designed for coffee shops, small farmers with their own brand, and for home - will be presented by Yoshiyuki  Asano at a demonstration on Saturday, May 5, at the Ka‘ū Coffee Festival Ho‘olaule‘a at Pāhala Community Center and at a workshop at Pāhala Plantation House on Sunday, May 6, after the Coffee College. Also attending will be Tatsuo Fukushima, President of Fuji Royal, and Tokyo manager Yuuki Sugii.
     The roasting quality is the same as with large professional coffee roaster machines, said Max Maemori, who represents Fuji Royal in Hawai‘i. The Fuji Royal mini roaster can process as little as a half pound, 250 grams of green beans and 200 grams of roasted beans. "The top quality micro roaster brings the same efficiency of high performance models to your coffee life," said Maemori. The machine weighs about 70 lbs and can fit on a 14 by 28 inch space with a height of two feet.

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

See public Ka‘ū events, meetings, entertainment.

See Ka‘ū exercise, meditation, daily, and weekly events.

Print edition of The Ka‘ū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes 

throughout Ka‘ū, from Miloli‘i through Volcano, and free on 

stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com.

TUESDAY, MAY 1

Discovery Harbour Volunteer Fire Dept. Meeting, Tue, May 1, 4-6pm, May 15, 4:30-6:30pm, Discovery Harbour Community Hall. 929-9576, discoveryharbour.net

Ka‘ū Coffee Growers Meeting, Tue, May 1, 6-8pm, Pāhala Community Center.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 2

Ka‘ū Coffee Festival: Ka‘ū Mountain Water Systems Hike, Wed, May 2, 9-2 pm, Ka‘ū Coffee Mill. - SOLD OUT

Open Mic Night, Wed, May 2, 6-10pm, Kīlauea Military Camp's Lava Lounge in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Singers, Bands, Comedians, etc. Call 967-8365 after 4pm to sign up. Open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests 21+. Park entrance fees apply. kilaueamilitarycamp.com

THURSDAY, MAY 3
Free Dog Spay and Neuter Clinic, Thursday, May 3, in Ocean View. Registration required: call 328-8455.

VA Medical Services, Thu, May 3 & 17, 8:30-noon, Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Veteran's Center, Thu, May 3, 8:30-12:30pm, May 17, 8:30-11:30am, Ocean View Community Center. No appointment needed to visit w/VA counselor & benefit specialist. Matthew, 329-0574, ovcahi.org

Ka‘ū Coffee Festival: Ka‘ū Valley Farms Tour, Thu, May 3, 9-2pm, Ka‘ū Valley Farms Nursery, Ka‘alaiki Rd, Nā’ālehu. Explore hydroponic nursery, and tea and coffee plantings. Expansive hilltop views, mountain to coast. Includes water systems and tunnels from sugar days, and native Hawaiian forest tour. $35 per person; includes lunch. Reservations required. John Cross, 987-4229; Brenda Iokepa-Moses, 731-5409. kaucoffeefestival.com

Tūtū & Me Traveling Preschool Vision Screening, Thu, May 3, 9-noon, Project Vision Hawai‘i van at Pāhala Community Center. Free; for all ages. Keiki offered free sunglasses; adults, reading glasses. projectvisionhawaii.org, 808-282-2265

Ka‘ū Coffee Festival: Special Pulping Presentation, Thu, May 3, 5pm, Pāhala Plantation House. Diego Botello of Penagos UDC Technology shows off new pulping equipment that separates ripe from green. See booth at Ka‘ū Coffee Festival Ho‘olaule‘a, Sat, May 5, 9-5pm, PāhalaCommunity Center.

Ocean View Neighborhood Watch Meeting, Thu, May 3, 6-7pm, Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

FRIDAY, MAY 4

Ka‘ū Coffee Festival: Ka‘ū Coffee & Cattle Day, Fri, May 4, 10-3pm, Aikane Plantation Coffee Company. Tour the farm and learn how coffee is integrated into cattle ranching and other agriculture. $25 per person; includes BBQ buffet and hayrides. Reservations required, 927-2252. kaucoffeefestival.com, aikaneplantation.com

Hula Hoop Challenge, Fri, May 4, 2-3pm, Kahuku Park, H.O.V.E. Ages 6 to 12. Register May 1-4. Teresa Anderson, 929-9113, hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation

Cinco De Mayo Dinner, Fri, May 4, 5:30pm, St. Jude's Episcopal Church. $8/single, $15/couple, $20/family. 939-7000

Ka‘ū Coffee Festival: Ka‘ū Star Gazing, Fri, May 4, 5:30-10pm - SOLD OUT.  Those with tickets, Meet at Olson Trust Building in Pāhala.

KDENte! Italian Food Fundraiser, Fri, May 4, 6pm, Almafatano's Italian Restaurant, Hilo. Buffet; includes pasta dish, lasagna, salad. Karl Halemano provides music. $20 at door. Reservations: 982-7344

SATURDAY, MAY 5

Ka‘ū Coffee Festival: 10th Annual Ho‘olaule‘a, Sat, May 5, 9-5pm, Pāhala Community Center. Celebrate Ka‘ū Coffee and with free music, hula entertainment and coffee tastings. Local vendor booths. Food and beverage sales. Free to attend. Ka‘ū Coffee Experience: 9:30-noon, 1-3:30pm, discover the methods behind brewing the perfect cup while enjoying free coffee tastings. Farm & Mill Tours (shuttle to Ka‘ū Coffee Mill): 9:30am, 11am, 12:30pm, 2pm, 3:30pm, $20/person. kaucoffeefestival.com

Realms and Divisions of Kahuku, Sat, May 5, 9:30-11:30am, Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Moderately difficult, two-mile, guided hike on Kahuku Unit's newest trail, Pu‘u Kahuku, explores the traditional Hawaiian classification system.

Cinco de Mayo Dinner, Sat, May 5, 3-5pm, Discovery Harbour Community Hall. discoveryharbour.net

Cinco De Mayo, Sat, May 5, 5-8pm, Crater Rim Café, Kīlauea Military Camp, inside Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Build Your Own Fajita Bar; menu includes Cheese Quesadillas, Black Beans, Spanish Rice, Soup, Salad/Potato Bar, Beverage, and Ice Cream Sundae Bar. $15.50/Adult, $8.25/Child (6-11 yrs). Regular menu available. Open to authorized KMC patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. 967-8356, kilaueamilitarycamp.com

SUNDAY, MAY 6

Ka‘ū Coffee Festival: Ka‘ū Coffee College, Sun, May 6, 9-noon, Pāhala Community Center. Informative talks given by visiting coffee experts. Free; donations appreciated. kaucoffeefestival.com

Palm Trail, Sun, May 6, 9:30-12:30pm, Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Moderately difficult, 2.6-mile loop traverses scenic pastures along an ancient cinder cone, with some of the best panoramic views Kahuku has to offer. nps.gov/HAVO

Ham Radio Potluck Picnic, Sun, May 6, noon-2pm, Manukā State Park. Anyone interested in learning about ham radio is welcome to attend. Sponsored by South Point Amateur Radio Club and Amateur Radio Emergency Service. View sites.google.com/site/southpointartc or sites.google.com/view/southhawaiiares/home. Rick Ward, 938-3058

MONDAY, MAY 7

Ka‘ū Homeschool Co–op Group, Monday, May 7 & 21, 1 p.m., Ocean View Community Center. A parent led homeschool activity/social group building community in Ka‘ū. Laura Roberts, 406-249-3351

Ocean View Volunteer Fire Department Meeting, Mon, May 7, 4-6pm, Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Community Meeting with State Senatorial Candidate Brenda Ford, Mon, May 7, 6-9pm, Ocean View Community Center. Free; donations from $1 to $1,000 accepted.

NEW & UPCOMING

FREE DOG SPAY AND NEUTER CLINIC Thursday, May 3, in Ocean View. Registration required: call 328-8455.

Stained Glass ‘I‘iwi. Photo from volcanoartcenter.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.

VOLCANO ART CENTER ANNOUNCES STAINED GLASS BASICS I, a four session beginner workshop, for Saturdays and Sundays, May 19, 20, 26 and 27, from 9 a.m. to noon.

     “Whimsical shapes, illustrative scenes or divine stories, stained glass has re-created the light in our lives for centuries. Stained glass artisans use both glass color and texture to produce light forms and patterns creating mood and character in small and large spaces,” states the event description.
     In this class, all basic techniques will be covered, from glass cutting, foiling, soldering, and completing with patina and polishing compound. Glass artist Lois Pollock shares her expertise and knowledge, teaching students the skills involved in working safely with stained glass, and creating a sturdy piece of art. Participants complete the course with a finished light-catcher.

Learn the basics of stained glass at a four session workshop 
in Volcano. Photo by volcanoartcenter.org

     Class fee is $90 per VAC Member and $100 per non-Member, plus a $15 supply fee per person. Attendees are asked to wear long pants, snug fitting gloves, covered shoes and safety glasses. Advance registration is required. Workshop is limited to six adults. For more, visit volcanoartcenter.org or call 967-8222.
     Stained Glass Basics II will be offered this summer, and will cover pattern design, allowing students to work on their own design as a second project upon successful completion of Stained Glass Basics I. The summer class fee is $90 per VAC Member and $100 per non-Member, plus a $30 supply fee per person. Students should bring a stained glass design for review to the first class of Basics II, no larger than 12" x 12". Anyone with prior copper foil stained glass experience is welcome to enroll in Basics II.
      Students may enroll in both Stained Glass Basics I and II at the same time.

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.

Summer Fun - Registration, May 7-10, Nā‘ālehu Community Center. For grades K-6. $40 per child. $50 portion of registration fee funded by Councilwoman Maile David. Program runs Mon-Fri, Jun 12-Jul 20, 8-2pm. Richard Karasuda, 939-2510. hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation

ONGOING

Volcano Art Center Gallery Presents Hoʻokuʻi I Nā Kiko, Connecting the Dots, by Natalie Mahina Jensen and Lucia Tarall. "A curated collection of photographs, paintings, sculptures, and feather work items deliver a sublime message, connecting the viewer artistically with the provenance of the design." Daily, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., through Sunday, May 6. volcanoartcenter.org or 967-8222

Sign Up for the Nāʻālehu Independence Day Parade, to be held June 30. If interested, call Debra McIntosh at 929-9872.

St. Jude's Episcopal Church Calls For More Volunteers for the Saturday community outreach. Especially needed are cooks for the soup served to those in need, and organizers for the hot showers. "Volunteering for St. Jude's Saturday Shower and Soup ministry is an opportunity to serve God in a powerful way," states St. Jude's April newsletter. Volunteer by contacting Dave Breskin at 319-8333.

One Community and One Parent Representative are sought by Nāʻālehu Elementary School Community Council. The community representative will serve a two-year term for school year 2018-2019 and 2019-2020. The parent representative will serve a one-year term for school year 2018-19. The parent rep cannot be a Nāʻālehu Elementary School employee. Voting is April 30 through May 11. Those interested, contact Leilani Rodrigues at 313-4020 or pcnc@naalehu.org, or name and number at the main office line, by calling 313-4000.

Tūtū and Me Offers Home Visits to those with keiki zero to five years old: home visits to aid with helpful parenting tips and strategies, educational resources, and a compassionate listening ear. Home visits are free, last 1.5 hours, two to four times a month, for a total of 12 visits, and snacks are provided. For info and to register, call Linda Bong 646-9634.

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 News Brief Sunday, April 29, 2018

Miss Ka‘ū Coffee and members of her Court attended the Ka‘ū Coffee Recipe Contest today at Ka‘ū Coffee Mill. From left: Miss Kaʻū Coffee Reishalyn Kekoa Jara, First Flower Kysha Kaʻupu-Manini, First Miss Kaʻū Coffee Princess Helena Nihipali-Sesson, Second Flower Lilianna Marques, Jr. Miss Kaʻū Coffee Cristina Kawewehi, and Miss Kaʻū Coffee Peaberry Jacelyn Kekoa Jara.  See story below. 
Photo by Denise Laitinen/ Kaʻū Coffee Fest

MAYOR HARRY KIM RETURNED TO HILO TODAY, after undergoing procedures at The Queen's Medical Center, states a release from the Mayor's office. Kim was discharged Friday evening, and stayed in Honolulu with his wife over the weekend, states the release. He returned to Hilo Sunday. The Mayor's office stated his family requests he "be allowed to come home without fanfare."

     "Harry informed me that he was getting some personal time in Honolulu with his wife," said Wil Okabe, Hawai‘i County Managing Director, who is serving as Acting Mayor while Kim is on sick leave. "The family wants to give him a chance to come home quietly so he can rest."

Mayor Harry Kim returned home today,
after being medevacked to O‘ahu
Thursday for chest pains.

     The Mayor experienced heart attack symptoms early Thursday, drove himself to Hilo Medical Center, then was medevacked to O‘ahu. At Queen's, Kim underwent tests and procedures to alleviate his symptoms, states the Mayor's office.

     "We thank Hilo Medical and Queen's for taking such good care of Harry," Okabe said. "We're also very grateful to Senator Hirono, Governor Ige, Mayor Caldwell, and Mayor Carvalho for their expressions of aloha and well wishes to Harry."

     "We want to thank the hundreds of people from all over the State who reached out with messages of love and concern by phone, email, social media and get-well cards," Okabe said.

     The release states Okabe said, "The Mayor and his family have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of aloha from all over the State, and the County of Hawai’i thanks everyone for their continued support and prayers for the Mayor's speedy recovery."

     "We appreciate everyone giving Harry a chance to rest comfortably while he was in the hospital, and we're hoping that the community will let Harry take time to rest and recover fully," said Okabe.

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 COFFEE RECIPE CONTEST drew hungry coffee foodie folks to Ka‘ū Coffee Mill today, April 29, to taste the many creations of pupu, entrées, and desserts made with Ka‘ū Coffee. In one of the annual events of the Ka‘ū Coffee Festival, which runs through next Sunday, Ka‘ū Coffee Wanton, Ka‘ū Coffee Chicken, and Ka‘ū Coffee Cream Cookies won the day.

Ka‘ū Coffee Recipe Contest judge 
Gloria Camba with the newly crowned 
Miss Ka‘ū Coffee Reishalyn Jara. 
Photo by Julia Neal

     Judges were Ka‘ū Coffee Growers Cooperative President Gloria Camba, Ka‘ū Coffee farmer Ann Fontes, and WikiWiki Store owner Carl Okuyama. Also in attendance with song and dance were members of the Miss Ka‘ū Coffee Court who were crowned last weekend.
     In the recipe contest, first place in the Pupu category went to Sally Louis for her Ka‘ū Coffee Flavored Wanton. Second went to Austin Kilkeny for his Festive Kalua Enchilada Dip. Third went to Elgon Villanueva for his Ka‘ū Coffee Soybeans.

     First place in the Entrée category went to Peggy Kilkeny for her Huli BBQ Chicken in Paradise. Second went to Suzette Louis for her Marinated Steak, and third went to Austin Kilkeny for his Ka‘ū Chili Mac.

     First place in the dessert category went to Tiana Villanueva for her Irish Cream Cookies. Second went to Suzette Louis for her Ka‘ū Coffee Cream Puffs, and third went to Peggy Kilkeny for her Tropical Temptations.

Ka‘ū Coffee Recipe Contest judge Carl Okuyama, 

owner of WikiWiki Store. Photo by Julia Neal

     All foods in the competition were made with Ka‘ū Coffee and attendees enjoyed sampling of all the entries. Emcee was Makana Kamahele, assisted by First Miss Ka‘ū Coffee Helena Nihipali-Sesson, who also entertained with Hawaiian music with her father Guy Sesson.
     Two other events organized by Ka‘ū Coffee Mill, the Ka‘ū Mountain Water Systems Hike and Ka‘ū Stargazing, are sold out.

     Ka‘ū Coffee and macadamia tasting are available Monday through Saturdays at Ka‘ū Coffee Mill and the mill will be a stop on the farm tours this coming Saturday. See kaucoffeemill.com and its facebook, and Kaucoffeefest.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.

NEXT EVENT FOR KAʻŪ COFFEE FESTIVAL is Ka‘ū Valley Farms Tour, Thursday, May 3, from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., Ka‘alaiki Rd, Nā‘ālehu. Explore hydroponic nursery, and tea and coffee plantings. Expansive hilltop views, mountain to coast. Includes water systems and tunnels from sugar days, and native Hawaiian forest tour. $35 per person; includes lunch. Reservations required. John Cross, 987-4229; Brenda Iokepa-Moses, 731-5409.

Kaʻū coffee farmer Ann Fontes, one of the judges at the Ka‘ū Coffee Festival
 Recipe Contest, where every recipe used Ka‘ū Coffee. Photo by Julia Neal

Innovations in Coffee Pulping and Roasting from Brazil and Japan will be on display 5 p.m. on Thursday, May 3, at Pāhala Plantation House. See article, below, for more details.

     Ka‘ū Coffee & Cattle Day, Friday, May 4, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Aikane Plantation Coffee Company. Tour the farm and learn how coffee is integrated into cattle ranching and other agriculture. $25 per person; includes BBQ buffet and hayrides. Reservations required, 927-2252. aikaneplantation.com

     Tenth Annual Ka‘ū Coffee Festival Ho‘olaule‘a, Saturday, May 5, 9 a.m - 5 p.m., Pāhala Community Center. Celebrate Ka‘ū Coffee with free music, hula entertainment, and coffee tastings all day long. Local vendor booths. Food and beverage sales. Free to attend. Ka‘ū Coffee Experience: 9:30-noon, 1-3:30 p.m., discover the methods behind brewing the perfect cup while enjoying free coffee tastings. Farm & Mill Tours 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., $20/person.

     Ka‘ū Coffee College, Sun, May 6, 9-noon, Pāhala Community Center. Informative talks given by visiting coffee experts. Free; donations appreciated.
     See kaucoffeefestival.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.

LATIN AMERICA AND JAPAN SEND COFFEE INNOVATIONS this week to Ka‘ū Coffee Festival. LDO Market, a Ka‘ū business specializing in the trade of Colombian-made coffee processing equipment, will display a newly available pulping mill that separates the ripe from the green at  5 p.m. on Thursday, May 3, at Pāhala Plantation House. Penagos UDC Technology Engineer Diego Botello flew in from Colombia to teach the farming community about the innovation.

     LDO representative Laura Diaz said that the integrated machine, with a conical vertical pulper, is equipped with helical breast plates that separate beans within a variety of qualities. The pulped red beans can immediately continue with the fermenting process or the mucilage removal, without mixing unwanted beans, which results in a clean, high-quality cup. The process utilizes a minimum amount of water and is therefore said to be environmentally friendly.

     The UDC Plus Stainless-Steel Unit is also available for preview at LDO Market's booth, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., during the Ka‘ū Coffee Festival Ho‘olaule‘a on Saturday, May 5, at the Pāhala Community Center. For more, contact Diaz at laura@ldomarket.com, 928-8188, or 408-306-5596.

     The Fuji Royal, Ltd. mini roaster from Japan - designed for coffee shops, small farmers with their own brand, and for home - will be presented by Yoshiyuki  Asano at a demonstration on Saturday, May 5, at the Ka‘ū Coffee Festival Ho‘olaule‘a at Pāhala Community Center and at a workshop at Pāhala Plantation House on Sunday, May 6, after the Coffee College. Also attending will be Tatsuo Fukushima, President of Fuji Royal, and Tokyo manager Yuuki Sugii.
     The roasting quality is the same as with large professional coffee roaster machines, said Max Maemori, who represents Fuji Royal in Hawai‘i. The Fuji Royal mini roaster can process as little as a half pound, 250 grams of green beans and 200 grams of roasted beans. "The top quality micro roaster brings the same efficiency of high performance models to your coffee life," said Maemori. The machine weighs about 70 lbs and can fit on a 14 by 28 inch space with a height of two feet.

Hōkūleʻa was greeted at Miloliʻi by swimming keiki.
Photo from Kawika Crivello of Polynesian Voyaging Society

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.

HŌKŪLEʻA MET WITH Hawaiian protocol, a welcome ceremony hosted by the Miloliʻi community, and swimming keiki on Saturday, April 28, after an overnight sail from Hilo.     As part of her Mahalo, Hawaiʻi Sail, Hōkūleʻa opened to the public around noon, welcoming members of the fishing village and visitors to view the vessel. The Miloliʻi community hosted a potluck luʻau for the crew, said organizer Kaimi Kaupiko.
     Hōkūleʻa hosted school children and residents for weeks in Hilo and Kona. After Miloliʻi, the Pollyesian sailing canoe left for Kawaihae to offer workshops and and school tours through May 10 when she will set sail for Oʻahu and Polynesian Voyaging Society headquarters.

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

See public Ka‘ū events, meetings, entertainment.

See Ka‘ū exercise, meditation, daily, and weekly events.

Print edition of The Ka‘ū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes 

throughout Ka‘ū, from Miloli‘i through Volcano, and free on 

stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com.

TUESDAY, MAY 1

Discovery Harbour Volunteer Fire Dept. Meeting, Tue, May 1, 4-6pm, May 15, 4:30-6:30pm, Discovery Harbour Community Hall. 929-9576, discoveryharbour.net

Ka‘ū Coffee Growers Meeting, Tue, May 1, 6-8pm, Pāhala Community Center.

Discovery Harbour Volunteer Fire Dept. Meeting, Tue, May 1, 4-6pm, May 15, 4:30-6:30pm, Discovery Harbour Community Hall. 929-9576, discoveryharbour.net

Ka‘ū Coffee Growers Meeting, Tue, May 1, 6-8pm, Pāhala Community Center.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 2

Ka‘ū Coffee Festival: Ka‘ū Mountain Water Systems Hike, Wed, May 2, 9-2 pm, Ka‘ū Coffee Mill. - SOLD OUT

Open Mic Night, Wed, May 2, 6-10pm, Kīlauea Military Camp's Lava Lounge in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Singers, Bands, Comedians, etc. Call 967-8365 after 4pm to sign up. Open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests 21+. Park entrance fees apply. kilaueamilitarycamp.com

THURSDAY, MAY 3

VA Medical Services, Thu, May 3 & 17, 8:30-noon, Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Veteran's Center, Thu, May 3, 8:30-12:30pm, May 17, 8:30-11:30am, Ocean View Community Center. No appointment needed to visit w/VA counselor & benefit specialist. Matthew, 329-0574, ovcahi.org

Ka‘ū Coffee Festival: Ka‘ū Valley Farms Tour, Thu, May 3, 9-2pm, Ka‘ū Valley Farms Nursery, Ka‘alaiki Rd, Nā’ālehu. Explore hydroponic nursery, and tea and coffee plantings. Expansive hilltop views, mountain to coast. Includes water systems and tunnels from sugar days, and native Hawaiian forest tour. $35 per person; includes lunch. Reservations required. John Cross, 987-4229; Brenda Iokepa-Moses, 731-5409. kaucoffeefestival.com

Tūtū & Me Traveling Preschool Vision Screening, Thu, May 3, 9-noon, Project Vision Hawai‘i van at Pāhala Community Center. Free; for all ages. Keiki offered free sunglasses; adults, reading glasses. projectvisionhawaii.org, 808-282-2265

Ka‘ū Coffee Festival: Special Pulping Presentation, Thu, May 3, 5pm, Pāhala Plantation House. Diego Botello of Penagos UDC Technology shows off new pulping equipment that separates ripe from green. See booth at Ka‘ū Coffee Festival Ho‘olaule‘a, Sat, May 5, 9-5pm, Pāhala Community Center.

Ocean View Neighborhood Watch Meeting, Thu, May 3, 6-7pm, Ocean  View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

FRIDAY, MAY 4

Ka‘ū Coffee Festival: Ka‘ū Coffee & Cattle Day, Fri, May 4, 10-3pm, Aikane Plantation Coffee Company. Tour the farm and learn how coffee is integrated into cattle ranching and other agriculture. $25 per person; includes BBQ buffet and hayrides. Reservations required, 927-2252. kaucoffeefestival.com, aikaneplantation.com

Hula Hoop Challenge, Fri, May 4, 2-3pm, Kahuku Park, H.O.V.E. Ages 6 to 12. Register May 1-4. Teresa Anderson, 929-9113, hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation

Cinco De Mayo Dinner, Fri, May 4, 5:30pm, St. Jude's Episcopal Church. $8/single, $15/couple, $20/family. 939-7000

Ka‘ū Coffee Festival: Ka‘ū Star Gazing, Fri, May 4, 5:30-10pm - SOLD OUT. Meet at Olson Trust Building in Pāhala.

KDENte! Italian Food Fundraiser, Fri, May 4, 6pm, Almafatano's Italian Restaurant, Hilo. Buffet; includes pasta dish, lasagna, salad. Karl Halemano provides music. $20 at door. Reservations: 982-7344

SATURDAY, MAY 5

Ka‘ū Coffee Festival: 10th Annual Ho‘olaule‘a, Sat, May 5, 9-5pm, Pāhala Community Center. Celebrate Ka‘ū Coffee and with free music, hula entertainment and coffee tastings. Local vendor booths. Food and beverage sales. Free to attend. Ka‘ū Coffee Experience: 9:30-noon, 1-3:30pm, discover the methods behind brewing the perfect cup while enjoying free coffee tastings. Farm & Mill Tours (shuttle to Ka‘ū Coffee Mill): 9:30am, 11am, 12:30pm, 2pm, 3:30pm, $20/person. kaucoffeefestival.com

Realms and Divisions of Kahuku, Sat, May 5, 9:30-11:30am, Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Moderately difficult, two-mile, guided hike on Kahuku Unit's newest trail, Pu‘u Kahuku, explores the traditional Hawaiian classification system.

Cinco de Mayo Dinner, Sat, May 5, 3-5pm, Discovery Harbour Community Hall. discoveryharbour.net

Cinco De Mayo, Sat, May 5, 5-8pm, Crater Rim Café, Kīlauea Military Camp, inside Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Build Your Own Fajita Bar; menu includes Cheese Quesadillas, Black Beans, Spanish Rice, Soup, Salad/Potato Bar, Beverage, and Ice Cream Sundae Bar. $15.50/Adult, $8.25/Child (6-11 yrs). Regular menu available. Open to authorized KMC patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. 967-8356, kilaueamilitarycamp.com

SUNDAY, MAY 6

Ka‘ū Coffee Festival: Ka‘ū Coffee College, Sun, May 6, 9-noon, Pāhala Community Center. Informative talks given by visiting coffee experts. Free; donations appreciated. kaucoffeefestival.com

Palm Trail, Sun, May 6, 9:30-12:30pm, Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Moderately difficult, 2.6-mile loop traverses scenic pastures along an ancient cinder cone, with some of the best panoramic views Kahuku has to offer. nps.gov/HAVO

Ham Radio Potluck Picnic, Sun, May 6, noon-2pm, Manukā State Park. Anyone interested in learning about ham radio is welcome to attend. Sponsored by South Point Amateur Radio Club and Amateur Radio Emergency Service. View sites.google.com/site/southpointartc or sites.google.com/view/southhawaiiares/home. Rick Ward, 938-3058

NEW & UPCOMING

Mixed media artist Carol Araki Wyban shares her knowledge and experience
with Hawaiian fishponds in Volcano on Thursday, May 17. 
Photo from volcanoartcenter.org

FISHPONDS OF HAWAI‘I, A FREE LECTURE AND SLIDESHOW, by Carol Araki Wyban, is offered on Thursday, May 17, from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., announces Volcano Art Center.

     In conjunction with her fine art exhibition on display at the Volcano Art Center Gallery, from May 12 through June 24, Wyban shares her knowledge and experience on Hawaiian fishponds. The lecture includes images from the exhibition as well as photos of modern activity at Hawaiian Fishponds. For more, visit volcanoartcenter.org or call 967-8222.

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.

Summer Fun - Registration, May 7-10, Nā‘ālehu Community Center. For grades K-6. $40 per child. $50 portion of registration fee funded by Councilwoman Maile David. Program runs Mon-Fri, Jun 12-Jul 20, 8-2pm. Richard Karasuda, 939-2510. hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation

ONGOING

Volcano Art Center Gallery Presents Hoʻokuʻi I Nā Kiko, Connecting the Dots, by Natalie Mahina Jensen and Lucia Tarall. "A curated collection of photographs, paintings, sculptures, and feather work items deliver a sublime message, connecting the viewer artistically with the provenance of the design." Daily, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., through Sunday, May 6. volcanoartcenter.org or 967-8222

Sign Up for the Nāʻālehu Independence Day Parade, to be held June 30. If interested, call Debra McIntosh at 929-9872.

St. Jude's Episcopal Church Calls For More Volunteers for the Saturday community outreach. Especially needed are cooks for the soup served to those in need, and organizers for the hot showers. "Volunteering for St. Jude's Saturday Shower and Soup ministry is an opportunity to serve God in a powerful way," states St. Jude's April newsletter. Volunteer by contacting Dave Breskin at 319-8333.

One Community and One Parent Representative are sought by Nāʻālehu Elementary School Community Council. The community representative will serve a two-year term for school year 2018-2019 and 2019-2020. The parent representative will serve a one-year term for school year 2018-19. The parent rep cannot be a Nāʻālehu Elementary School employee. Voting is April 30 through May 11. Those interested, contact Leilani Rodrigues at 313-4020 or pcnc@naalehu.org, or name and number at the main office line, by calling 313-4000.

Tūtū and Me Offers Home Visits to those with keiki zero to five years old: home visits to aid with helpful parenting tips and strategies, educational resources, and a compassionate listening ear. Home visits are free, last 1.5 hours, two to four times a month, for a total of 12 visits, and snacks are provided. For info and to register, call Linda Bong 646-9634.

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.