The Kaʻū Calendar News Briefs, Hawaiʻi Island: 05/01/2019

Friday, May 31, 2019

Kaʻū News Briefs, Friday, May 31, 2019

An endangered Hawaiian monk seal takes shelter in a mass of derelict nets and other fishing gear. Read below how

harmful marine debris are to the ocean and its inhabitants. Photo from marinesanctuary.org

WITH HURRICANE SEASON BEGINNING TOMORROW, THE ELECTRIC COMPANY urges people to be prepared. It also reports that its crew is creating more resilient grids and keeping land cleared around power lines, power poles, and other equipment to gear up for the 2019 Central Pacific Hurricane hurricane season, which begins Saturday, June 1. HECO spent almost $17 million statewide in the last year to update infrastructure so weather causes fewer and briefer outages during storms. HECO "works year-round to strengthen the electric grids so that they are better able to withstand powerful storms. Much of that work centers around upgrading and reinforcing poles, lines, and equipment, and clearing vegetation," says a release from HECO'S local utility, Hawaiʻi Electric Light Co.

Since 2018, HELCO has "continued collaboration with public agencies and community partners to promote emergency preparedness and hasten power restoration efforts following natural disasters." HELCO installed Trip-Savers and similar devices on power lines to help isolate and protect the electrical system during outages. HELCO also installed tie-lines between circuits to provide quicker restoration options during an interruption.

HELCO offers the safety handbook in English for Keiki, and adult
versions in English, Cantonese, Ilocano, Vietnamese, and Korean.

The HELCO statement urges customers to prepare for hurricane season by referring to the Handbook for Emergency Preparedness available at hawaiielectriclight.com/prepare. Printed copies are available at HELCO's business offices in Hilo and Kona, and at Hilo and Kona public libraries. Call 327-0543 to request copies.

Residents are urged to develop their own emergency plans and consider these tips:

- Gather emergency supplies, such as a battery-powered radio, flashlights, lanterns, and batteries. Be prepared to monitor storm-related communications issued over emergency broadcast radio stations.

- Store enough water, non-perishable food, medicine, and personal hygiene supplies for your family members and pets to last at least 14 days.

- Turn off and unplug all unnecessary electric appliances and equipment during a storm or a power outage. When power comes back and is stable, plug in the equipment one at a time.

- Shut off your electricity at the main breaker or switch if you need to evacuate.

- Consider having a backup generator if you are dependent on an electrically-powered life support system. Or, make plans to go to an alternate location where electricity will be available. Be prepared to take your medical equipment and medications with you.

- If your business or residence is equipped with a backup generator, learn how to properly operate the device to avoid causing damage or injury.

- Prepare a list of emergency contacts that includes phone numbers for insurance agents, vendors, physicians, or any other important individuals.

- See a downed power line? Assume it is energized and dangerous. Stay away from downed power lines – at least 30 feet or more.

For power outage updates, follow Hawai‘i Electric Light on Twitter @HIElectricLight.

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.

Endangered Hawaiian monk seals bask in shallow water near a mini breakwater made partly of derelict fishing gear,

as sea birds perch atop the marine debris. Photo from marinesanctuary.org

HARMFUL EFFECTS OF MARINE DEBRIS on ocean and wildlife are covered in a short film released this week by The National Marine Sanctuary Foundation. The film centers on clean-up efforts in Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument, northwest of the main Hawaiian Islands.

The film uses underwater and seascape photography "to convey the meaning of the ocean to Native Hawaiian culture," says a release from the foundation. It documents a joint clean-up project of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and its Marine Debris program, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, in Papahānaumokuākea.
Since 1996, the team has removed more than 2 million pounds of marine debris, which continues to accumulate at an estimated rate of 52 metric tons per year in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. Marine debris includes derelict fishing gear, non-biodegradable household waste, plastics, and other debris.

A sea bird nests in marine debris. Photo from marinesanctuary.org

Filmmaker Steven Gnam, who "specializes in exploring and illuminating our connection to nature and whose work is a celebration of the wild," says the release, created the film. It features music from Jack Johnson, the American singer-songwriter, actor, record producer, documentary filmmaker, and former surfer. Johnson, who was born and raised on the North Shore of Oʻahu and lives there now, is active in environmentalism and sustainability, often with a focus on the ocean.

The film was funded by the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation in partnership with Sea Salts of Hawaiʻi.

A Hawaiian monk seal swims blithely by a tangle of derelict nets.

Photo from marinesanctuary.org

From mid-September through October of 2018, a team of scientists led by NOAA carried out a 41-day expedition to Papahānaumokuākea, conducting in-water and shoreline marine debris survey, and removal operations at French Frigate Shoals, Laysan Island, Lisianski Island, Pearl and Hermes Atoll, Midway Atoll, and Kure Atoll. All 164,906 lbs. of marine debris were transported back to Honolulu for recycling and disposal.

Marine debris is any human-made, solid material that enters waterways directly through littering or indirectly via rivers, streams, and storm drains. Marine debris can discarded soda cans, disposable lighters, toothbrushes, or plastic bags that end up in the ocean. Nearly 80 percent of marine debris originates from land-based sources.

Lost or abandoned commercial and recreational fishing nets, lines, pots, and traps are another form of marine debris, categorized as derelict fishing gear. These items, whether discarded intentionally or lost accidentally, may sit on the seafloor, get caught on rocky or coral reefs, or float on the ocean surface. The majority of this lost gear does not decompose in seawater and can remain in the marine environment for many years.

Marine debris crowds shoreline plant life. Photo from marinesanctuary.org

Marine debris a crisis for the oceans as debris can kill and injure marine wildlife through ingestion and entanglement, disperse invasive species, endanger human health, cause damage to shipping vessels, and hurt businesses and tourism by polluting beaches and coastlines. As debris rolls across shoreline habitats and reefs, derelict fishing nets can entangle wildlife and damage corals. Derelict fishing gear is especially damaging to coral reefs. Derelict fishing nets wear down and break corals or can even grow into the reef structure, smothering living coral.

Derelict fishing gear also poses a serious choking and entanglement hazard to many threatened or endangered marine species and seabirds in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, including the Hawaiian monk seal, green sea turtle, humpback whale, and Laysan albatross. If animals get entangled in nets or swallow plastic debris, they can suffocate, starve, or drown. Derelict fishing nets and gear can also constrict an entangled animal's movement, exhausting or injuring the animal.

Plastic debris is especially threatening because of its ability to absorb and concentrate toxic pollutants.

Marine debris gyres in the Pacific are perfectly placed to deposit debris on islands in Papahānaumokuākea Marine

National Monument. Photo from marinesanctuary.org

Ways to help stop marine debris: use reusable cups; avoid products with excess packaging; buy fresh and local; buy from bulk bins and avoid packages with individually wrapped items; avoid single-use plastic household items such as disposable lighters and plastic toothbrushes; invest in a reusable water bottle instead of using single-use plastic bottles; bring a reusable bag not only to the grocery store, but to all stores to reduce use of paper and plastic bags; say no to single-use plastic straws; and take part in beach cleanups.

A Hawaiian monk seal peers out from a tangle of net-based

marine debris. Photo from marinesanctuary.org

The foundation thanks Senator Brian Schatz of Hawaiʻi as a strong champion for the ocean, fighting to preserve and restore Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument.

Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument is the largest marine protected area in the Northern Hemisphere and one of the largest in the world. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Papahānaumokuākea protects one of the last pristine ocean environments in the world, preserves Native Hawaiian traditions for future generations and safeguards the remains of those lost during World War II's Battle of Midway. Its extensive coral reefs are home to thousands of marine species, some found nowhere else in the world. Monument residents include endangered Hawaiian monk seals, sea turtles, whales, dolphins, 14 million seabirds, sharks, billfish, tuna, and four species of endemic land birds, including the Laysan duck.

A sea bird, perched with its catch atop marine debris.
Photo from marinesanctuary.org

The destination's role in maritime and cultural heritage is equally significant. With the highest density of sacred sites in the archipelago, it is closely tied to the Hawaiian peoples' history. Within the boundaries are more than 60 known shipwreck sites spanning centuries as well as Midway Atoll, where the US forces irreparably damaged the Japanese fleet in the famous WWII battle.

The National Marine Sanctuary Foundation, established in 2000, is the official non-profit partner of the National Marine Sanctuary System. The foundation directly supports America's national marine sanctuaries through our mission to protect species, conserve ecosystems and preserve America's maritime heritage. The foundation accomplishes their mission through community stewardship and engagement programs, on-the-water conservation projects, public education and outreach programs, and scientific research, and exploration. The foundation fosters innovative projects that are solution-oriented, scalable and transferable, and develop strategic partnerships that promote the conservation and recovery of species and their habitats. Learn more at marinesanctuary.org.

Learn more about the marine debris problem by viewing the film and web story.

Marine debris, clustered at the high tide mark in Papahānaumokuākea. Photo from marinesanctuary.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.

See public Kaʻū events, meetings, entertainment.

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

Print edition of The Kaʻū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes

throughout Kaʻū, from Miloliʻi through Volcano, and free on

stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com

and facebook.com/kaucalendar.

JUST ANNOUNCED

MR. KNEEL VISITS PĀHALA PUBLIC AND SCHOOL LIBRARY MONDAY, June 3 at 2:30 p.m. Neil McIntyre – stage name Mr. Kneel – is an awarding-winning Hip Hop musician and educator.

During the special library event, Mr. Kneel will demonstrate the art of beatboxing to keiki of all ages and adults, engaging onlookers with animal sounds and guessing games, plays on words, and sounds most people would have trouble making with just their mouths, hands, and a microphone. At a previous event at Nā‘ālehu Public Library, Mr. Kneel performed acoustic beatboxed songs as the children danced, playing freeze dance, Simon Says, and using other interaction techniques. His hip hop performance included songs about math, Dr. Seuss, and Seussian rhymes.

According to his website, mrkneel.com, Mr. Kneel's "work at Warren Village in Denver, Colorado, a very special inner-city school, has led to a new kind of family music: 'Golden Era Hip Hop' music that parents will love as much as their kid, if not more.

"With Beatbox and vocal percussion, Mr. Kneel can make magic and emotion. With words he can create and improvise well enough to be invited recently to perform at the American Jazz Museum!"

He has performed at over 500 schools and venues in 43 of the United States and seven provinces abroad.

For more library programs, see librarieshawaii.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.

UPCOMING

SATURDAY, JUNE 1

Summer Reading Program: A Universe of Stories, June 1-July 13, all Hawai‘i Public Libraries including Nā‘ālehu and Pāhala. Starting June 1, sign-in and register at librarieshawaii.beanstack.org for free reading rewards, activities and programs for all ages and a chance to win a round trip for Four to anywhere Alaska Airlines flies.

Edible Wild Plants: A Hands-On Foray for Foragers and Foodies with Zach Mermel of Ola Design Group, Saturday, June 1, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Volcano Art Center. $30/VAC member, $40/non-member, plus $15 transportation fee. Class size limited. Register early. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

Lā‘au Lapa‘āu Workshop, Saturday, June 1, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Kaʻū District Gym. Free workshop open to the public from Hui Mālama Ola Nā ‘Ōiwi Traditional Health team. 969-9220, hmono.org

Keiki Science Class, Saturday, June 1 – 1st Saturday, monthly – 11a.m. to noon, Ace Hardware Stores islandwide; Nā‘ālehu, 929-9030 and Ocean View, 929-7315. Free. acehardware.com

Andy McKee Plays in Volcano at Kīlauea Military Camp's Kīlauea Theater, Saturday, June 1. Show begins at 7:45 p.m. A Park entrance fee may apply if arriving before 7:30 p.m. McKee is an acoustic guitar "virtuoso, a master practitioner" of folk, blues, bluegrass, and other musical genres. Information or purchase tickets, $48, at (808) 896-4845, kilaueamilitarycamp.com, or bluesbearhawaii.com.

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

MONDAY, JUNE 3

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

LIHEAP Energy Assistance Program Applications, Monday, June 3, 10, 17, or 24, Tuesday, June 4, 11, 18 or 25, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Green Room, Ocean View Community Center. See hceoc.net/programs/energy for full list of requirements and to download forms.

Mr. Kneel Public Speaker and Professional Beatboxer, Monday, June 3, 2:30 p.m., Pāhala Public and School Library. Features math, reading, Dr. Seuss, and family friendly humor. 928-2015

Ocean View Volunteer Fire Department Mtg., Monday, June 3 and July 1, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

TUESDAY, JUNE 4
Ka‘ū Coffee Growers Mtg., Tuesday, June 4, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., Pāhala Community Center.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 5
Early Head Start, Wednesday, June 5 – 1st Wednesday, monthly – 10 a.m. to noon, Ocean View Community Center. Social get together for keiki and parents; open to public. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Master Gardeners: Plant Propagation, Wednesday, June 5, 2 p.m., Nā‘ālehu Public Library. Sharing techniques to propagate plants. Free seeds and starts give away. 939-2442

All About Buddhism in the Jodo Shinshu Tradition, Wednesday, June 5 and every following Wednesday, 5 p.m., Nā‘ālehu Hongwanji Buddhist Temple. Book study/talk story. Materials and light refreshments provided. Temple president Robert Kobzi, robertkobzi@aol.com

Hula Voices with Kumu Hula Sammi Fo, Wednesday, June 5 – 1st Wednesday, monthly – 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., Volcano Art Center Gallery. Desiree Moana Cruz moderates the talk story session. Free. 967-7565, volcanoartcenter.org

THURSDAY, JUNE 6
Keiki Jiggle Bums, Thursday, June 6 and 20 – 1st and 3rd Thursday, monthly – 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., Ocean View Community Center. Discover the joy of early learning through song and musical instruments. For keiki 0-4 years. Nicola, 238-8544

Women's Expression Group, Thursday, June 6 – 1st Thursday monthly – 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., PARENTS Inc., Nā‘ālehu. Women welcome to drop in. Free. Lindsey Miller, 333-3460, lindsey@hawaiiparents.org

Ocean View Neighborhood Watch Mtg., Thursday, June 6, 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

‘O Ka‘ū Kākou Mtg., Thursday, June 6, 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Aspen Center. okaukakou.org

FRIDAY, JUNE 7
Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund Coastal Net Patrol, Friday, June 7. Free; donations appreciated. Limited seating available. RSVP in advance. kahakai.cleanups@gmail.com, 769-7629

Uplink All-Stars: Grades 6-8, Friday, June 7, to Friday, June 28, 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., Ka‘ū High & Pāhala Elementary. Registration required, 313-4100

Stewardship at the Summit, Fridays, June 7, 15, 22, and 28, 8:45 a.m. to noon, Kīlauea Visitor Center. Volunteers remove invasive, non-native plants. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and long pants. Bring hat, rain gear, day pack, snacks, and water. Gloves/tools provided. Parental/guardian accompaniment or written consent required for those under 18. Free; park entrance fees apply. Paul and Jane Field, field@hawaii.edu, nps.gov/havo

ONGOING

Summer Programs for Kaʻū High & Pāhala Elementary registrations are open.
Uplink All-Stars runs Friday, June 7 through Friday, June 28 for students in grades 6, 7, and 8.
Algebra camp is also open to students in grades 6, 7, and 8 from Monday, June 10 through Friday, June 21.

Early College, for high school students, runs from Wednesday, June 12 through Thursday, July 11.

All three programs require registration by calling 313-4100.

Seamless Summer Program, open to all people under age 18, no registration required, offers free breakfast from 7:30 a.m. to 8 a.m., and free lunch from 11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., on weekdays , June 7 through July 11, except June 11 and July 4, in the school cafeteria.

Exhibit – Hulihia, A Complete Change: The Hawai‘i Nei Invitational Exhibition, runs through Sunday, June 16, daily, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Volcano Art Center Gallery. Multi-media exhibition of seven artists. Free; National Park entrance fees may apply. 967-7565, volcanoartcenter.org

Nā‘ālehu Independence Day Parade Sign-Up Open until Thursday, June 20. Parade happens Saturday, June 29 at 11 a.m. The parade route begins at the Nāʻālehu Elementary School and ends at the Nāʻālehu Hongwanji Mission. To participate, call Debra McIntosh, 929-9872.

Full-Time Teaching Assistant Sought by Tūtū & Me to implement curriculum for caregivers and keiki in Tūtū & Me Traveling Preschool in Kaʻū. Competitive salary and benefits package, including medical, dental, drug, and vision; flexible spending plan; 403b retirement plan; vacation, sick days, and 14 paid days off; and more.

Minimum requirement is a high school diploma. Early Childhood Education, related coursework, and/or experience working children preferred. For more, visit pidf.org/about/careers. Apply by emailing resume and cover letter to hr@pidfoundation.org or fax to 808-440-6619.

Hi-Employment Seeks Student Employees to work in a macadamia nut orchard on weekends and holidays. Duties include hand-harvesting macadamia nuts, filling and transporting nut bag and buckets, loading 25-plus pound bags into truck beds, and possible clearing of brush and branches. Applicants must be at least 15 years old, have a work permit, two forms of ID, and transportation to "Panaʻewa Stretch." Call for more details, 238-3741, hi-employment.com.

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Thursday, May 30, 2019

Kaʻū News Briefs, Thursday, May 30, 2019

Secretary of the Interior David Bernhardt talked to reporters outside of Volcano House today. They discussed
Hawaiian Volcano Observatory staff staying on island and the future of Jaggar Museum and HVO headquarters.
Photo by Julia Neal

U.S. SECRETARY OF THE INTERIOR DAVID BERNHARDT stood on the edge of Kīlauea Caldera today and said that Hawaiian Volcano Observatory headquarters will remain on Hawaiʻi Island. After putting on a hard hat and visiting Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park's Jaggar Museum and HVO headquarters, undermined by earthquakes and the collapse of crater walls last year, he talked with reporters. They discussed the impact of the loss of the buildings to scientists, visitors, and the local economy. "I wouldn't be here if I didn't think this was going to be a priority and move forward as expeditiously as humanly possible," said Bernhardt.

HVO Chief Scientist Tina Neal and acting Superintendent of Hawaiʻi

Volcanoes National park Rhonda Loh show Secretary of the Interior David

Bernhardt the plaza overlooking Kīlauea Caldera.

Photo by DOI/Tami A. Heilemann

On money that could be used for facility recovery, he said there is a process with Congress. "We are in a process where they have found some money, but I never make a prediction on that until it's presented to the President. But I do think the Senators have been very responsive and I think we'll be in good shape. We already have some resources from federal highways and others that will be coming and doing planning to deal with some subsidence, and things like that."

When asked whether Jaggar Museum could be reopened, he said, "When you stand there, at the caldera, my initial reaction, honestly, was that there needs to be something. It just seems that it would be counter purposes not to have something right near there. At the same time, there's movement on that ground. I mean that's clearly obvious, it's still moving potentially. So we need to think that through because, obviously, safety's very first. I think that's a site to be very thoughtful about." Bernhardt noted that visitation to the park is rebounding.

He also noted that HVO moved to places, in Hilo, to stay fully operational. He said the determination of a fixed plan for a permanent location is at least months away. He did say the headquarters would remain on Hawaiʻi Island, following speculation that scientists and other staff could be distributed to Hilo, Honolulu, and other places.

The Interior Secretary also said he met with HVO and HVNP employees today. "We have some incredible employees here at both the National Park Service and also at the U.S. Geological Survey. I was able to commend the team that had spent so much time and effort up here during the event," the summit collapse and quakes that led them to abandon the buildings and close the park, all the while keeping the community informed.

Secretary of the Interior David Berhhardt tours the HVO building, with its

severe damage from earthquakes and the collapse of the caldera

where it is perched. Photo by DOI/Tami A. Heilemann

Bernhardt toured the off-limits HVO headquarters with Chief Scientist Tina Neal and Acting HVNP Superintendent Rhonda Loh. Neal pointed to large cracks in walls and other structural damage. On the plaza, overlooking the recently created, large collapse feature of the volcano summit, Neal reminded Bernhardt that HVO has been there since the early part of the last century and Jaggar museum since the 1920s.

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.

USGS WILL KEEP HAWAIIAN VOLCANO OBSERVATORY HERE, reported Sen. Mazie Hirono today, after a meeting with Dr. Jim Reilly, Director of the U.S. Geological Survey.

Said Hirono, "The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory is an integral part of the Hawaiʻi Island community, as we saw when HVO scientists worked around the clock with first responders to provide critical information during last year's volcanic activity. It just makes sense that this critical agency remains anchored on Hawaiʻi Island, and I want to thank Dr. Reilly for being receptive to community concerns on this matter."

During his confirmation hearing in March, Hirono urged then-Acting Interior Secretary David Bernhardt to incorporate feedback from Hawaiʻi Island residents and Hawaiʻi's Congressional Delegation before deciding whether to move the Observatory to Oʻahu.
Hirono told Bernhardt: "The USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory was completely destroyed, as you know, during the eruption. We obviously need to rebuild the facility and there are discussions of building it outside of the island on which actually there are active volcanoes. That doesn't seem to make a lot of sense. I would want to have your commitment that you will listen to the Congressional delegation as well as local stakeholders to put this observatory where the eruptions will likely occur."
Bernhard replied, "I have to say, I will absolutely look into that."

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

EXPERIENCE VOLCANO released a statement today, promoting the Experience Volcano Festival, coming up on Saturday, July 27 and Sunday, July 28. The event is coordinated with the new ʻŌhiʻa Lehua Half Marathon, 5K, and Keiki Dash.
Vendors can apply for Experience Volcano. Experience Volcano is a group of businesses and residents helping to rebuild the economy of Volcano, following last year's volcanic disaster that shut down Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park and drastically reduced the visitor county which is now recovering. See ExperienceVolcano.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.

ASIAN PACIFIC AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH wraps up tomorrow. Sen. Mazie Hirono, who came here as a child immigrant from Japan, issued a statement saying, "APA Heritage Month is an opportunity to recognize the cultures, the trailblazers, and stories of the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities in Hawaiʻi and across the country. While we celebrate these contributions, there is still much work to be done to ensure opportunity and equality for AAPI communities, and we must continue fighting for these goals."

Last week, Hirono, along with 22 of her U.S. Senate colleagues, introduced a resolution recognizing the significance of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month in May, and the contributions of the Asian American and Pacific Islander community.

Throughout May, Hirono, the first Asian American woman elected to the United States Senate, introduced several pieces of legislation to benefit the AAPI community. Last week, Hirono reintroduced the Filipino Veterans Family Reunification Act, which she previously introduced in the 113th, 114th, and 115th Congresses. This legislation would expedite the visa process for children of Filipino World War II veterans. She also introduced the Adoptee Citizenship Act of 2019, bipartisan legislation that would close a loophole in the Child Citizenship Act of 2000 that prevented internationally-adopted children from receiving U.S. citizenship despite being legally adopted by U.S. citizens.
Hirono also introduced a resolution to commemorate the life and legacy of Rep. Patsy Takemoto Mink, who, when elected to represent Hawaiʻi in 1964, was the first Asian American woman and woman of color elected to the U.S. House of Representatives.

See public Kaʻū events, meetings, entertainment.

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

Print edition of The Kaʻū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes

throughout Kaʻū, from Miloliʻi through Volcano, and free on

stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com

and facebook.com/kaucalendar.

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.

UPCOMING

FRIDAY, MAY 31

Coffee Talk at Kahuku, Roosevelt's Tree Army: Civilian Conservation Corps in Hawai‘i, Friday, May 31, 9:30 a.m. – 11 a.m., Kahuku Unit Visitor Contact Station. Talk story with Dr. Jadelyn Moniz Nakamura. "Bring your own cuppa." Free. nps.gov/havo

SATURDAY, JUNE 1
Summer Reading Program: A Universe of Stories, June 1-July 13, all Hawai‘i Public Libraries including Nā‘ālehu and Pāhala. Starting June 1, sign-in and register at librarieshawaii.beanstack.org for free reading rewards, activities and programs for all ages and a chance to win a round trip for Four to anywhere Alaska Airlines flies.

Edible Wild Plants: A Hands-On Foray for Foragers and Foodies with Zach Mermel of Ola Design Group, Saturday, June 1, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Volcano Art Center. $30/VAC member, $40/non-member, plus $15 transportation fee. Class size limited. Register early. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

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

LIHEAP Energy Assistance Program Applications, Monday, June 3, 10, 17, or 24, Tuesday, June 4, 11, 18 or 25, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Green Room, Ocean View Community Center. See hceoc.net/programs/energy for full list of requirements and to download forms.

Mr. Kneel Public Speaker and Professional Beatboxer, Monday, June 3, 2:30 p.m., Pāhala Public and School Library. Features math, reading, Dr. Seuss, and family friendly humor. 928-2015

Ocean View Volunteer Fire Department Mtg., Monday, June 3 and July 1, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

‘O Ka‘ū Kākou Mtg., Thursday, June 6, 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Aspen Center. okaukakou.org

ONGOING

Early College, for high school students, runs from Wednesday, June 12 through Thursday, July 11.

All three programs require registration by calling 313-4100.

Exhibit – Hulihia, A Complete Change: The Hawai‘i Nei Invitational Exhibition, runs through Sunday, June 16, daily, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Volcano Art Center Gallery. Multi-media exhibition of seven artists. Free; National Park entrance fees may apply. 967-7565, volcanoartcenter.org

Full-Time Teaching Assistant Sought by Tūtū & Me to implement curriculum for caregivers and keiki in Tūtū & Me Traveling Preschool in Kaʻū. Competitive salary and benefits package, including medical, dental, drug, and vision; flexible spending plan; 403b retirement plan; vacation, sick days, and 14 paid days off; and more.

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.

Wednesday, May 29, 2019

Kaʻū News Briefs, Wednesday, May 29, 2019

Uhu, the parrot fish, are herbivores who graze on coral and help maintain the health of the coral reefs. Read below
about a new study on herbivores and their role in restoring coral. Photo from TNC

BIG ISLAND HOUSING FOUNDATION CAME TO KAʻŪ on Sunday, May 26 to present a model for senior housing in Nāʻālehu. The presentation to about 30 people focused on the old Nāʻālehu Fruit Stand land along Hwy 11, which is being purchased by the ʻO Kaʻū Kākou Community organization for the purpose of senior housing.

Susan Kunz, Executive Director of Big Island Housing Foundation, which could manage the facility, said one example of housing for the site would include 20 units, each 500 square feet. The facility, with a community center for the seniors, would cost $7 million to $8 million to build. Estimated rent would be $1,000 a month, targeting low income people. Some would receive subsidies to help pay for it.

Foundation representatives said that financing to build the $8 million project could come through the federal Housing and Urban Development agency, and investors who would receive tax credits for participating. The investors would come up with about two-thirds of the budget to build the facility and receive ten years in tax credits.

An important element for moving forward, said Kunz, is a marketing study that would show the need for the senior housing and ability for seniors to pay full rent, or some rent plus a subsidy. The project would need about 20 people who would be ready to move in and another 40 that would be expected to move in later during the next 15 years.

Big Island Housing Foundation operates 40 units at Waimea Elderly Housing. It is working with OKK for a 20 unit complex in Nāʻālehu. Photo from Big Island Housing Foundation

Some people asked whether the senior housing would be for local people, which is a goal of ʻO Kaʻū Kākou President Wayne Kawachi, who has helped to raise over $75,000 for the project. Representatives of Big Island Housing Foundation said they can not exclude seniors from the mainland from applying for the housing. Use of federal money used to build the facility prohibits discrimination.
Some seniors at the meeting discussed among themselves whether they could gift their own homes and other assets to their children to become qualified as lower income, so they wouldn't have to come up with $1,000 a month. They described themselves as owning a home but having little retirement income from the defunct sugar plantation.
Big Island Housing Foundation operates Kamana Elderly Housing, Waimea Elderly Housing, E Komo Mai Apartments, Papa ʻAloa Elderly Housing, Keaʻau Elderly Housing, and Riverside Apartments. See photos and descriptions of these communities at bigislandhousing.com.
To donate to the cause and for more information, call Kawachi at 937-4773.

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Manini, convict tangs. Photo from NOAA

RESTORING CORAL REEF HEALTH in Hawaiʻi could be assisted by better managing herbivores, the fish that graze on algae, reports The Nature Conservancy. A study, released today, says, "Without herbivores—such as uhu, manini, palani, kole and kala—algae can outcompete corals, overgrowing the habitat corals need to reproduce, smothering and degrading reefs, and reducing the health of the entire ecosystem. And because reefs with healthy herbivore populations are themselves healthier, they are more resilient to stressors like runoff from land and unsustainable fishing, and better able to resist or recover from the impacts of climate change, like coral bleaching and storm damage."

The paper’s lead author, Dr. Anne Chung, a recent graduate of the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa who works with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, said, "Establishing management areas that restrict herbivore harvest is a common recommendation for protecting coral reefs, but there is limited information on how to do that. Based on the latest science, our team developed design principles for establishing an herbivore management area network that builds reef resilience in Hawai‘i."

Some of the key recommendations include:

• Protecting ecologically important areas, particularly diverse reefs that provide nursery, shelter, feeding, and spawning habitats for herbivores;

• Building connectivity, so fish and their larvae can travel between areas to take advantage of critical food resources and habitat; and

• Protecting reefs that have shown resilience to disturbance in the past while avoiding degraded areas.

Uhu, one of the most important reef dwellers for the

health of coral. Photo by Pauline Fiene

Another key factor in the success of herbivore management areas is community engagement and support, says the TNC statement. "Fishing is an important part of our island culture, so this work was born out of a practical need to protect our reefs while still allowing fishing to occur," Chung said. "Herbivore management areas would not prevent fishing for other kinds of fish, such as ulua, omilu, weke and ‘u‘u."

According to co-author Dr. Alan Friedlander, chief scientist with National Geographic's Pristine Seas program and a University of Hawai‘i researcher, "Less than five percent of the coastline in the Main Hawaiian Islands effectively protects reef fish through managed areas with high levels of protection, and there is only one area specifically designated for herbivore management—the Kahekili Herbivore Fisheries Management Area offshore of Kāʻanapali on the island of Maui."

Within the Fisheries Management Area, parrot fish populations have recovered by 368 percent, algae have decreased, and coral habitat—which was once being smothered by native and non-native algae—is no longer declining, despite a mass coral bleaching event in 2015. In a 2018 survey led by TNC, that examined 22,000 coral colonies at 51 sites in south and west Maui, Kahekili was ranked as one of leeward Maui's five most resilient reefs.

Co-author Dr. Alison Green, of The Nature Conservancy, said "Herbivore management areas can help build reef resilience to climate change, but they should be used in conjunction with other management strategies, such as reducing sediments coming from land." Such is the case at Kahekili, where watershed management initiatives are reducing the amount of land-based sediment and nutrients that flow to the ocean.

Kim Hum, marine program director for The Nature Conservancy in Hawaiʻi, said, "Practical guidance like these design principles is helping to equip government agencies and community groups with the tools they need to meet the State's goal of effectively managing 30 percent of nearshore waters by 2030. Maintaining healthy coral reefs around the Hawaiian Islands is a tough job. Rising and warming seas make it even tougher. But together, we can build healthier reefs and more abundant fisheries to support local livelihoods and feed our families into the future."

Palani. Photo by Kydd Pollock/TNC

The paper, Building Coral Reef Resilience Through Spatial Herbivore Management, was published in the journal Frontiers in Marine Science. Authors include Dr. Anne Chung, University of Hawai‘i; Dr. Alan M. Friedlander, Chief Scientist with National Geographic's Pristine Seas program and the University of Hawai‘i; Dr. Alison L. Green of The Nature Conservancy; Dr. Lisa M. Wedding of Stanford University and the University of Oxford, United Kingdom; Grace Goldberg of the University of Calfornia at Santa Barbara; and Amber Meadows and Dr. Mark A. Hixon of the University of Hawaiʻi.

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MEI LIN GALBAN KIN IN WILL SOON HEAD TO COLLEGE ON A BASKETBALL SCHOLARSHIP. Known to her coaches and teammates as Skittles, she'll play for Pierce College in Puyallup, in Washington state. Her Kaʻū High School Trojans teammate, Kianie Medeiros-Dancel, will play for the same school. Galban Kin In is one of three of Head Coach Cy Lopez Jr.'s players to receive an athletic scholarship and "continue to play the game they love, while furthering their education and pursuing their dreams," said Trojans Girls Basketball Assistant Coach Jennifer Makuakane. Galban Kin In will be studying to become an electrical engineer.

Galban Kin In has developed into an "incredibly skilled ball handler and shooter. Probably one of the best all around guards for Kaʻū Girls Basketball in the 8 years of Coach Cy's career," said Makuakane. "She didn't become the player she is over night. For five years, Skittles' self discipline to work endlessly set her apart from the rest. She has endured grueling hours of ball handling skills drills, shot hundreds of shots per day, five to six days a week, and watched hours worth of film – not because the coaches asked, because she wanted to."

Mei Lin Gablan Kin In, with her ‘ohana and coaches, as she signs with
Pierce College in Washington state. Photo from Ka‘ū High School

According to Lopez, "Skittles' remarkable dedication and commitment from day one will never be forgotten. I hope sharing her story with my future players will inspire them, because she is an amazing role model for others."

Makuakane reported that "while visiting her dad and family in Kona, she would have her dad drive her daily from Kona to Kaʻū so she wouldn't miss practice. If for any reason she was unable to make it back, her dad would take her to the nearest basketball court so she could get her training in for the day. That was the type of player Mei Lin was.

"Mei Lin didn't only focus on herself when it came to basketball. Being a selfless, kind hearted individual, she volunteered her time mentoring and coaching middle school students. Over the years, her love for the sport grew and she didn't realize how much she'd miss it until her final basketball season came to an end."

Galban Kin In's "quiet, shy, and reserved demeanor" didn't stop her coaches from believing she had the capability to play college ball. They were anticipating her signing with a college, any college, said Makuakane. Just hours before her high school commencement ceremony, Gablan Kin In signed her letter of intent surrounded by proud family members, coaches, Athletic Director Kalei Namohala, and Principal Sharon Beck.

Said Makuakane, "We've been blessed to coach over 80 players in the past eight years. A player like Skittles doesn't come around often. Someone who is passionate, dedicated, selfless, genuine, and with a pure soul, is like finding a diamond in the rough. As hard as it is to let her go, sharing someone this special is an honor. Skittles will undoubtedly give all that she has to her new coach and team, as she has done for us.

"It's hard to explain how proud we are of Skittles and the rest of our girls. Our hearts are full and we can't wait to continue this journey alongside of them. These young women will continue to represent Kaʻū well and prove what a special place we come from."

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See public Kaʻū events, meetings, entertainment.

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

Print edition of The Kaʻū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes

throughout Kaʻū, from Miloliʻi through Volcano, and free on

stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com

and facebook.com/kaucalendar.

JUST ANNOUNCED

PUBLIC FEEDBACK ON MAUNA KEA ADMINISTRATION is sought by University of Hawaiʻi by Friday, June 7. There are public hearings on Hawaiʻi Island on Tuesday, June 4 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Waiākea Elementary School, 180 W. Puainako Street, Hilo and Wednesday, June 5 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Waikoloa Elementary and Middle School, 68-1730 Hoʻoko Street, Waikoloa.

UH is asking for comments on the latest draft of the proposed administrative rules to govern public and commercial activities on UH-managed lands on Mauna Kea.

The university has received hundreds of written and oral comments and suggestions during the formal and informal processes to date, and this input "significantly shaped" the latest draft. The public is strongly encouraged to continue to participate in the process.
See hawaii.edu/offices/bor/adminrules/proposed.html, select Proposed for the rules.
Submit data, views, or arguments, orally or in writing by mail to UH System of Government Relations Office, UH_Mānoa, 2442 Campus Rd., Admin. Svcs. Bldg. 1, Rm. 101, Honolulu, HI, 96822; online to uhhar@hawaii.edu; or at a public hearing, dates and times above.

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UPCOMING

THURSDAY, MAY 30

Summer Keiki Learn-to-Swim Registration, Thursday, May 30, and Friday, May 31, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m., Pāhala Swimming Pool, Ka‘ū High & Pāhala Elementary School Campus. $15 per session; cash or check accepted. Payable to County Director of Finance. 928-8177, hawaiicounty.gov/pr-aquatics

Volcano Friends Feeding Friends, Thursday, May 30, 4 p.m. – 6 p.m., Cooper Center, Volcano Village. Free community dinner for all. Additional packaged goods to take home for those in need. Donations and volunteers encouraged. 967-7800, thecoopercenter.org

FRIDAY, MAY 31
Coffee Talk at Kahuku, Roosevelt's Tree Army: Civilian Conservation Corps in Hawai‘i, Friday, May 31, 9:30 a.m. – 11 a.m., Kahuku Unit Visitor Contact Station. Talk story with Dr. Jadelyn Moniz Nakamura. "Bring your own cuppa." Free. nps.gov/havo

SATURDAY, JUNE 1

Keiki Science Class, Saturday, June 1 – 1st Saturday, monthly – 11a.m. to noon, Ace Hardware Stores islandwide; Nā‘ālehu, 929-9030 and Ocean View, 929-7315. Free. acehardware.com

Andy McKee Plays in Volcano at Kīlauea Military Camp's Kīlauea Theater, Saturday, June 1. Show begins at 7:45 p.m. A Park entrance fee may apply if arriving before 7:30 p.m. McKee is an acoustic guitar "virtuoso, a master practitioner" of folk, blues, bluegrass, and other musical genres. Information or purchase tickets, $48, at (808) 896-4845, kilaueamilitarycamp.com, or bluesbearhawaii.com.

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

Ocean View Volunteer Fire Department Mtg., Monday, June 3 and July 1, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

All About Buddhism in the Jodo Shinshu Tradition, Wednesday, June 5 and every following Wednesday, 5 p.m., Nā‘ālehu Hongwanji Buddhist Temple. Book study/talk story. Materials and light refreshments provided. Temple president Robert Kobzi, robertkobzi@aol.com

Hula Voices with Kumu Hula Sammi Fo, Wednesday, June 5 – 1st Wednesday, monthly – 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., Volcano Art Center Gallery. Desiree Moana Cruz moderates the talk story session. Free. 967-7565, volcanoartcenter.org

ONGOING

Summer Programs for Kaʻū High & Pāhala Elementary registrations are open.

Uplink All-Stars runs Friday, June 7 through Friday, June 28 for students in grades 6, 7, and 8.
Algebra camp is also open to students in grades 6, 7, and 8 from Monday, June 10 through Friday, June 21.

Early College, for high school students, runs from Wednesday, June 12 through Thursday, July 11.

All three programs require registration by calling 313-4100.

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About The Kaʻū Calendar

Friday, May 31, 2019

Kaʻū News Briefs, Friday, May 31, 2019

Thursday, May 30, 2019

Kaʻū News Briefs, Thursday, May 30, 2019

Wednesday, May 29, 2019

Kaʻū News Briefs, Wednesday, May 29, 2019