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Merrie Monarch Parade has been cancelled, and riders like Kehau Ke will change her plan to gather flowers and foliage to decorate her
steed for next year's event. Photo by Kamalani Kualahine-Salmo
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THE MERRIE MONARCH FESTIVAL, which draws paniolo, churches, Kaʻū Coffee Mill, and the Miss Kaʻū Coffee Court to its parade, Kaʻū artists and crafters to its venues, and Kaʻū hula dancers and musicians to its stages, is cancelled for the week of April 12-18.
The cancellation rated a notification from County Civil Defense, explaining the reason: novel coronavirus concerns. In a statement from the organizers, Merrie Monarch Festivals President Luana Kawelo, said, "This was such a hard decision to make. But we could not risk the health and wellbeing of our community, hālau participants, vendors, and the thousands of people who attend Merrie Monarch every year." Kawela announced, "In the end, we believe that keeping people healthy and safe must be the highest priority, and we all need to take on this kuleana in the face of the threat posed by COVID-19."
Chris Tatum, President & CEO of Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority, one of the Merrie Monarch's longtime sponsors, said, HTA "looks forward to the return of this important cultural event in the future." Kawela said the next Merrie Monarch will be planned for the same time, next year.
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.
KONA BREWERS FEST, which raises money for such programs in Kaʻū as Pāhala Elementary School's garden, was postponed today. The twenty-fifth annual event, which celebrates not only local beer, but also many other local products, including Kaʻū Coffee ice cream, was scheduled for this weekend, with volunteers from Kaʻū heading to Kona to help out. Postponed companion events are Run for the Hops, Brewers Dinner, and Volunteer Mahalo Party.
Sponsor, Ke Kai Ala Foundation, announced that global COVID19 concerns led to the postponements. A statement from the organizers says, "This was a difficult and unanimous decision rooted in our commitment to do right for the well-being of our whole community for long term wellness. The Kona Brewers Festival has been following this situation closely, and has adjusted to each phase of information offered by the CDC and the State of Hawaiʻi. We know that people come from near and far, investing so much in this beloved event. Like you, organizers had hoped the Festival could continue on, as we have for so long… through rain, shine, and even a Tsunami in 2011," the press release reads. "We had hoped to do so with all the surprises and delights that we are so famous for. While this was our hope, the health and well-being of our island community is, and forever will be, our highest priority."
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 BAN ON INCREASING PRICES OF EMERGENCY ITEMS was issued yesterday by Mayor Harry Kim. His Supplementary Emergency Proclamation prohibits increasing retail and wholesale prices of "any commodity in the area covered by Hawai‘i County's Emergency Proclamation regarding Coronavirus" which was issued Feb. 28.
The items include food, water, ice, medical supplies, medical protective measures, medications, vitamins, and any other commodity intended to help the population stay well and recover and protect from any illness. It also covers personal hygiene, paper and cleaning supplies, and any other commodity to sanitize and clean items, and areas; and any other commodity intended for use to prepare for, respond to, or use due to circumstances giving rise to the emergency related to COVID-19. The Supplemental Proclamation will continue through Saturday, May 9, or until further action by the Mayor's Office.
The cancellation rated a notification from County Civil Defense, explaining the reason: novel coronavirus concerns. In a statement from the organizers, Merrie Monarch Festivals President Luana Kawelo, said, "This was such a hard decision to make. But we could not risk the health and wellbeing of our community, hālau participants, vendors, and the thousands of people who attend Merrie Monarch every year." Kawela announced, "In the end, we believe that keeping people healthy and safe must be the highest priority, and we all need to take on this kuleana in the face of the threat posed by COVID-19."
Chris Tatum, President & CEO of Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority, one of the Merrie Monarch's longtime sponsors, said, HTA "looks forward to the return of this important cultural event in the future." Kawela said the next Merrie Monarch will be planned for the same time, next year.
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The Kaʻū Coffee Festival and court are
regular participants in the Merrie Monarch Parade, which has been cancelled, along with the hula competition and other events. Photo by Julia Neal
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KONA BREWERS FEST, which raises money for such programs in Kaʻū as Pāhala Elementary School's garden, was postponed today. The twenty-fifth annual event, which celebrates not only local beer, but also many other local products, including Kaʻū Coffee ice cream, was scheduled for this weekend, with volunteers from Kaʻū heading to Kona to help out. Postponed companion events are Run for the Hops, Brewers Dinner, and Volunteer Mahalo Party.
Sponsor, Ke Kai Ala Foundation, announced that global COVID19 concerns led to the postponements. A statement from the organizers says, "This was a difficult and unanimous decision rooted in our commitment to do right for the well-being of our whole community for long term wellness. The Kona Brewers Festival has been following this situation closely, and has adjusted to each phase of information offered by the CDC and the State of Hawaiʻi. We know that people come from near and far, investing so much in this beloved event. Like you, organizers had hoped the Festival could continue on, as we have for so long… through rain, shine, and even a Tsunami in 2011," the press release reads. "We had hoped to do so with all the surprises and delights that we are so famous for. While this was our hope, the health and well-being of our island community is, and forever will be, our highest priority."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.
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 UNIVERSAL BASIC PAYMENT "to help Americans across the country weather the storm caused by the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic," was proposed by Kaʻū's Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard today. She said, "The coronavirus pandemic has created a threat to the health and well-being of the American people, as well as to our country's economic stability. While some in Washington are focused on taking care of Wall Street, everyday Americans get left behind. That's wrong. Instead, we must act swiftly to provide a temporary universal basic payment of $1,000 per month to every American adult to help them weather the storm created by this crisis. Taking care of all Americans will stimulate our economy during this downturn."
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| Rep. Tulsi Gabbard applauded Princes and Viking Cruises for cancelling schedules into May. |
Gabbard said that H.Res.897 expresses the sense of the House of Representatives, that there should be a direct emergency economic stimulus for individual Americans in response to COVID–19. Yesterday, Gabbard sent a letter to President Trump, requesting a temporary suspension of all cruise line operations nationwide until there are proper procedures available to ensure with total and absolute certainty that all people can be tested for COVID-19 and cleared before boarding or disembarking cruise ships. She applauded Princess Cruises' and Viking Cruises' suspension of operations through May 10 and May 1, but noted that several major cruise lines continue to operate, "putting the health of thousands at risk."
Gabbard also joined a letter to President Trump demanding that pharmaceutical companies are not issued exclusive licenses "for the production of such treatments or capitalize on drugs that have been funded by billions of taxpayer dollars." She wrote to Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar calling for clear guidelines for state and local governments to receive federal reimbursement for the costs they are incurring as part of their response to this public health crisis.
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.
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.
LEGISLATION TO REQUIRE FEDERAL AGENCIES TO PROVIDE MORE TELEWORKING opportunities for employees has been introduced by Sen. Mazie Hirono. The Telework Metrics and Cost Savings Act, Senate Bill 3428, is "particularly urgent as the growing coronavirus epidemic places greater strain on federal workers," states the announcement from Hirono's office.
Hirono said, "Expanding telework options for federal employees is critical to ensure the federal government can continue to provide essential services like assisting veterans and answering questions as Americans file their taxes. A responsive federal government is essential during this outbreak. The Trump Administration has put federal workers' wellbeing in jeopardy with its open hostility to the federal workforce and its cuts to teleworking. The Telework Metrics and Cost Savings Act supports federal workers by expanding telework opportunities at a time when our nation needs this option."
Hirono said the Trump Administration has "systematically been dismantling telework opportunities for federal workers, making positions in the federal government less accessible and less competitive in recruiting and retaining employees. The Administration has spent the last three years restricting teleworking at several agencies like the Department of Education, the Department of Agriculture, and the Social Security Administration."
The Federal Emergency Management Agency's National Continuity Programs guidance calls attention to the "direct relationship" between a Continuity of Operations plan and telework, noting that "telework can assist the sustainment of essential functions during a change to the normal operating status such as a pandemic."
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 NEW VIEWING AREA FOR HŌLEI SEA ARCH opened this week. Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park chose a spot about 1,000 feet past the gate at the end of Chain of Craters Road, atop hardened pāhoehoe lava. It is set back away from the cliff edge, and is marked with orange stanchions and rope. Visitors are urged to stay away from dangerous cliff edges, and are reminded that entering closed areas puts themselves and first responders at risk.
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.
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| Hawaiʻi Pacific Parks Association wins a national award and visitors to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park have a new, designated place to view the Hōlei Sea Arch. NPS photo |
The original sea arch viewing area has been closed since January 16 due to the discovery of cracks and instability in the coastal cliffs in the area. The Hōlei Sea Arch is 90 feet high and was formed around 550 years ago.
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Hōlei Sea Arch can now be viewed safely. NPS photo
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HAWAIʻI PACIFIC PARKS ASSOCIATION WON an Outstanding Public Engagement Award from the Public Lands Alliance for its annual report that covered the 2018 Kīlauea eruption. The partnership award was presented at the Alliance's annual convention held recently in Arlington, VA.
A statement from Hawaiʻi Pacific Parks says that "Staff submitted the report for consideration in the competition because we felt strongly that it was a compelling review of a year that truly fits the definition of hulihia: overturning and change. When dramatic volcanic events at Kīlauea began in May of 2018, they disrupted the operation of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, dislocated HPPA's administrative offices, and shuttered our two busiest national park stores. The report tells the story of how we managed during a hurried park evacuation, the onslaught of daily earthquakes, the disruption
to the community caused by a truly remarkable eruption of lava, and the 'new normal' of our operations in support of national parks once Hawaiʻi Volcanoes reopened in late September of 2018."
Margot Griffith, Hawaiʻi Pacific Park's Executive Director said, "The fact that we have survived, thrived, and adapted, with kokua from our park partners, is purely a testament to the resilience and creativity of our team. We had a compelling story to tell, and it is humbling to receive this recognition for our efforts by the broader public lands partner community."
A statement from Hawaiʻi Pacific Parks says that "Staff submitted the report for consideration in the competition because we felt strongly that it was a compelling review of a year that truly fits the definition of hulihia: overturning and change. When dramatic volcanic events at Kīlauea began in May of 2018, they disrupted the operation of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, dislocated HPPA's administrative offices, and shuttered our two busiest national park stores. The report tells the story of how we managed during a hurried park evacuation, the onslaught of daily earthquakes, the disruption
to the community caused by a truly remarkable eruption of lava, and the 'new normal' of our operations in support of national parks once Hawaiʻi Volcanoes reopened in late September of 2018."
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| Miki Tomita and Margot Griffith, Hawaiʻi Pacific Park's Executive Director |
Competition judges made the following comments in their deliberations: "This is more than a report, it is a work of art and outstanding technology. This... shows the dedication of a public lands partner to their mission.
"Considering the circumstances of the eruption, I have to say that this report is beyond my expectations in terms of its content and reach to the public. With its illustrations of the eruption, buildings, and people involved, it clearly communicates the mission of the organization and how it adapted to be an asset in this devastating situation.
"A good and environmentally friendly way to demonstrate the accomplishments of the organization. Makes very clear the aid given and value of these efforts."
Read the online interactive edition of the report a indd.adobe.com/view/d0728b97-5a1c-4a80-863b-ddf6b574b796.
Hawaiʻi Pacific Parks Association is a nonprofit cooperating association working in partnership with the National Park Service in Hawaiʻi and American Samoa. Proceeds from our park stores support interpretation, educational programs, research projects, publications, and cultural activities.
The Public Lands Alliance is dedicated to connecting, strengthening and representing the nonprofit partners of America's public lands.
"Considering the circumstances of the eruption, I have to say that this report is beyond my expectations in terms of its content and reach to the public. With its illustrations of the eruption, buildings, and people involved, it clearly communicates the mission of the organization and how it adapted to be an asset in this devastating situation.
"A good and environmentally friendly way to demonstrate the accomplishments of the organization. Makes very clear the aid given and value of these efforts."
Read the online interactive edition of the report a indd.adobe.com/view/d0728b97-5a1c-4a80-863b-ddf6b574b796.
Hawaiʻi Pacific Parks Association is a nonprofit cooperating association working in partnership with the National Park Service in Hawaiʻi and American Samoa. Proceeds from our park stores support interpretation, educational programs, research projects, publications, and cultural activities.
The Public Lands Alliance is dedicated to connecting, strengthening and representing the nonprofit partners of America's public lands.
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.
AN AGRI-TOURISM WORKSHOP will be held Friday, April 3,
The day-long session will also cover Business Assessments, a checklist of Agritourism, Compliance and Planning, a Talk Story and networking lunch, Financial Fitness, Agri-Marketing & Collaborations, and an AgriTourism Panel.
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 daily, weekly, and monthly recurring Kaʻū and Volcano Events, Meetings, Entertainment, Exercise, Meditation, and more at kaucalendar.com.
Tūtū & Me Home Visiting Program is a free service to Pāhala families with keiki, birth to five years old. This caregiver support program offers those taking care of young keiki "a compassionate listening ear, helpful parenting tips and strategies, fun and exciting activities, and wonderful educational resources" from Tūtū & Me Traveling Preschool. Home visits are one hour in length, two to four times per month, for 12 to 15 visits. Snacks are provided. See pidfoundation.org or call 808-938-1088.
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See Kaʻū events, meetings, entertainment. See Kaʻū exercise,
meditation, daily, bi-weekly, and weekly recurring events.
Print edition of The Kaʻū Calendar is free to 6,250 mailboxes
throughout Kaʻū, from Miloliʻi through Volcano, and free on
stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com
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Kaʻū Spring Sports Schedule
Girls Softball
Saturday, March 14, 11 a.m. , host Kealakehe
Tuesday, March 17, 3 p.m. , host Pāhoa
Saturday, March 21, 11 a.m. , @Keaʻau
Saturday, March 28, 11 a.m. , host Hilo
Boys Baseball
Saturday, March 14, 1 p.m. , host Kealakehe
Wednesday, March 18, 3 p.m. , @Pāhoa
Saturday, March 21, 1 p.m. , @Keaʻau
Saturday, March 28, 1 p.m. , host Hilo
Boys Volleyball
Friday, March 13, 6 p.m. , host Konawaena
Tuesday, March 24, 6 p.m. , host Kamehameha
Tuesday, March 31, 6 p.m. , @Kohala
Judo
Saturday, March 14, 10:30 a.m. , @Hilo
Saturday, March 21, 10:30 a.m. , @Konawaena
Saturday, March 28, 10:30 a.m. , @Waiakea
Track
Saturday, March 14, 9 a.m. , @Waiakea
Saturday, March 21, 2 p.m. , @Konawaena
Saturday, March 28, 9 a.m. , @Waiakea
UPCOMING
FRIDAY, MARCH 13
CANCELLED: Community Dance, Friday, March 13, 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., Cooper Center, Volcano Village. Minors allowed with supervision only. Alcohol-free event. Variety of music. Snacks provided; additional pūpū welcome. Free. thecoopercenter.org, 967-7800
LEGO Robots Migrant Education Program, March 16 through 20, 8 a.m. to noon, for keiki in grades 3 through 8, at Pāhala Elementary. Registration deadline is Friday, March 13. The program is free. Held during Spring Break, the Lego Education WeDo 2.0 program offers to "engage and motivate elementary school students' interest in learning science- and engineering-related subjects." The program used motorized LEGO models and simple programming. Register online at bit.ly/2VaaPUi or khpes.org. Pick up a registration form in the school's main office. Call 808-313-4100 for more.
SATURDAY, MARCH 14
Stewardship at the Summit, March 14, Saturday, and Friday, March 20 and 27, 8:45 a.m. Meet project leaders Paul and Jane Field at Kīlauea Visitor Center. Volunteer to help remove invasive, non-native plant species that prevent native plants from growing in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, a World Heritage Site. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and long pants. Bring a hat, rain gear, day pack, snacks and water. Gloves and tools are provided. Under 18? Parental or guardian accompaniment or written consent is required. Additional planning details at nps.gov/havo/planyourvisit/summit_stewardship.htm.
Kaʻū Plantation Days, Saturday, March 14, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Nāʻālehu Community Center. Organized by Kaʻū Multicultural Society. Marlene Hapai, 808-557-4540
Pastel On-Site Landscape Painting Workshop with Patti Pease Johnson, Saturday, March 14, 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222
Zentangle: Enso Circle Techniques with Lois & Earl Stokes, Saturday, March 14, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222
Second Saturday in Volcano Village, Saturday, March 14, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monthly event showcases business throughout the village. Volcano Garden Arts will hold self guided "Secret Garden" tours of its famous gardens, with 10% off in the art gallery, which showcases the works of many local artists. Special menu selections will be featured at Café ʻOno, serving lunch daily from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., closed Mondays. experiencevolcano.com, volcanogardenarts.com, cafeono.net, 808-985-8979
Miranda's Grand Opening of New Kaʻū Coffee Store, Saturday, March 14 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on the mauka side of Hwy 11 between South Point Road and the Kahuku Section of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. The event will feature music and hula, ribbon cutting, tacos, tamales, Miranda Kaʻū Coffee, and cake. mirandasfarms.com
MONDAY, MARCH 16
Spring Break, Monday through Friday, March 16 thorough 20.
OKK Farmers Market in Nāʻālehu, Mondays and Wednesdays, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the future Nāʻālehu Senior Housing Site. Contact Sue Barnett for vending, 808-345-9374.
TUESDAY, MARCH 17
St. Patrick's Day Buffet, Tuesday, March 17, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., Kīlauea Military Camp's Crater Rim Café, located in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. $24.95 Adults, $13.95 children 6 to11 years old. In-house guests & military ID holders, 20% discoun. KMC is open to all authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. kilaueamilitarycamp.com, 967-8356
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18
OKK Farmers Market in Nāʻālehu, Mondays and Wednesdays, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the future Nāʻālehu Senior Housing Site. Contact Sue Barnett for vending, 808-345-9374.
Sign Up to Be a Vendor at the Kauahaʻao Congregational Church Fundraising Bazaar by Wednesday, March 18. Event is Saturday, March 21 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Individuals, schools, clubs, and sports/athletic groups are invited to be vendors at the "flea market" that will be located on the church lawn. The charge for a 10' X 10' space is $10. Vendors are responsible for bringing their own tent, table and chairs, and if power is needed, generator. Vendors can sell anything except hot foods or plate lunches. Vendors must fill out and submit a Vendor Application with the $10 fee by Wednesday, March 18. Call Debbie Wong Yuen at 928-8039 for the application.
S.T.E.M. Family Night be held at Kaʻū District Gym Multipurpose Room on Wednesday, March 25 from5:30 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. Deadline to register at bit.ly/2Trk8N8 is Wednesday, March 18. For students in Kindergarten through 6th grade and their families, this event will allow exploration of science, technology, engineering and math in an interactive and engaging environment. A light dinner and refreshments will be served. Contact Jen Makuakane at 808-313-4100 for more.
ONGOING
Deadline to Enter the 2020 Keiki Water Conservation Poster Contest, held by Dept. of Water Supply, is Friday, March 13. "Conserve to Preserve" is the theme contest, open to all Hawaiʻi Island schoolchildren enrolled in kindergarten through the fifth grade. Free entry. Submit original artwork by keiki on flat, 11 by 17 inch paper. No computer graphics or photographs; any medium may be used, except three-dimensional renderings, chalk, charcoal, and oil-based crayon. Each submission must be accompanied by a completed entry form available online at hawaiidws.org, via email by contacting dws@hawaiidws.org, or by calling DWS at 961-8050. Entries may be mailed to or dropped off at DWS offices in Kaʻū, at 95-6041 Māmalahoa Hwy in Waiʻōhinu, and in Hilo , Kona, and Waimea. Additional contest rules are listed on the entry form and the DWS website. DWS 2020 Keiki Water Conservation Poster Contest flyer/entry form.
LEGO Robots Migrant Education Program, March 16 through 20, 8 a.m. to noon, for keiki in grades 3 through 8, at Pāhala Elementary. Registration deadline is Friday, March 13. The program is free. Held during Spring Break, the Lego Education WeDo 2.0 program offers to "engage and motivate elementary school students' interest in learning science- and engineering-related subjects." The program used motorized LEGO models and simple programming. Register online at bit.ly/2VaaPUi or khpes.org. Pick up a registration form in the school's main office. Call 808-313-4100 for more.
SATURDAY, MARCH 14
Stewardship at the Summit, March 14, Saturday, and Friday, March 20 and 27, 8:45 a.m. Meet project leaders Paul and Jane Field at Kīlauea Visitor Center. Volunteer to help remove invasive, non-native plant species that prevent native plants from growing in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, a World Heritage Site. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and long pants. Bring a hat, rain gear, day pack, snacks and water. Gloves and tools are provided. Under 18? Parental or guardian accompaniment or written consent is required. Additional planning details at nps.gov/havo/planyourvisit/summit_stewardship.htm.
Kaʻū Plantation Days, Saturday, March 14, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Nāʻālehu Community Center. Organized by Kaʻū Multicultural Society. Marlene Hapai, 808-557-4540
Pastel On-Site Landscape Painting Workshop with Patti Pease Johnson, Saturday, March 14, 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222
Zentangle: Enso Circle Techniques with Lois & Earl Stokes, Saturday, March 14, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222
Second Saturday in Volcano Village, Saturday, March 14, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monthly event showcases business throughout the village. Volcano Garden Arts will hold self guided "Secret Garden" tours of its famous gardens, with 10% off in the art gallery, which showcases the works of many local artists. Special menu selections will be featured at Café ʻOno, serving lunch daily from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., closed Mondays. experiencevolcano.com, volcanogardenarts.com, cafeono.net, 808-985-8979
Miranda's Grand Opening of New Kaʻū Coffee Store, Saturday, March 14 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on the mauka side of Hwy 11 between South Point Road and the Kahuku Section of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. The event will feature music and hula, ribbon cutting, tacos, tamales, Miranda Kaʻū Coffee, and cake. mirandasfarms.com
MONDAY, MARCH 16
Spring Break, Monday through Friday, March 16 thorough 20.
Fix-A-Leak Week will be held March 16 through 22. Pick up free leak detection tablets, one pack per household, at the county Department of Water Supply base in Waiʻōhinu, 95-6041 Māmalahoa Hwy. Additional detection and water conservation tips are available at epa.gov/watersense/fix-leak-week and hawaiidws.org.
OKK Farmers Market in Nāʻālehu, Mondays and Wednesdays, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the future Nāʻālehu Senior Housing Site. Contact Sue Barnett for vending, 808-345-9374.
Hour-Long Lomilomi Massage, Mondays, March 16 and 23, 8:15 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. at Hawaiʻi County Economic Opportunity Council, 95-5635 Māmalahoa Hwy in Nāʻālehu. Hui Mālama Ola Nā ʻŌiwi offers sliding-fee payment scale sessions with experienced Licensed Massage Therapist and lomilomi practitioner Lehua Hobbs. "Improve circulation, alleviate muscle pain, and improve your overall well-being." Call for appointment, 808-969-9220.
TUESDAY, MARCH 17
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18
OKK Farmers Market in Nāʻālehu, Mondays and Wednesdays, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the future Nāʻālehu Senior Housing Site. Contact Sue Barnett for vending, 808-345-9374.
Sign Up to Be a Vendor at the Kauahaʻao Congregational Church Fundraising Bazaar by Wednesday, March 18. Event is Saturday, March 21 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Individuals, schools, clubs, and sports/athletic groups are invited to be vendors at the "flea market" that will be located on the church lawn. The charge for a 10' X 10' space is $10. Vendors are responsible for bringing their own tent, table and chairs, and if power is needed, generator. Vendors can sell anything except hot foods or plate lunches. Vendors must fill out and submit a Vendor Application with the $10 fee by Wednesday, March 18. Call Debbie Wong Yuen at 928-8039 for the application.
S.T.E.M. Family Night be held at Kaʻū District Gym Multipurpose Room on Wednesday, March 25 from
ONGOING
Kaʻū Art Gallery is looking for local artists. Call 808-937-1840
Sign Up to Be a Vendor at the Kauahaʻao Congregational Church Fundraising Bazaar by Wednesday, March 18. The annual event will be held Saturday, March 21 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The church is located on the corner of Mamalahoa Hwy , Kamaoa Road , and Pinao Street , just above the Wong Yuen Store in Waiʻōhinu.
Sign Up Keiki for the Second Annual Kaʻū Children's Business Fair, to be held Saturday, March 21, 10 a.m. to noon at Pāhala Community Center
Check Out Nāʻālehu Elementary Student Artwork from the 32nd Annual Young At Art Juried Exhibit through Friday, March 27 at the East Hawaiʻi Cultural Center in downtown Hilo. The gallery is open Tuesday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Register for Ocean View Classic Car & Bike Show, Saturday, March 28, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Owners of classic cars and bikes are encouraged to register early, as space is limited.
This second annual event, a fundraiser for Ocean View Community Association, will also feature food and live music, and prizes for the most impressive cars and bikes.
Contact organizers Dennis Custard at 831-234-7143 or Ron Gall at 808-217-7982 to register or for more info.
Mixed Flock Volcano Art Center Exhibit, daily, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Sunday, March 29. Features prints by Margaret Barnaby and pottery by Emily Herb. Glazing techniques demo Saturday, March 7, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222
Sign Up to Vend at the New ʻO Kaʻū Kākou Nāʻālehu Farmers Market, Mondays and Wednesdays, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the site of the old Fruit Stand, mauka of Hwy 11 in Nāʻālehu. Vending focuses on Kaʻū products, including mushrooms from the new farm in Nāʻālehu, fresh breads, vegetables, fruits, and other products. The market may offer music in the future, and there are plans to acquire picnic tables for market goers. Call Manager Sue Barnett at 345-9374 to sign up.
Individuals, schools, clubs, and sports/athletic groups are invited to be vendors at the "flea market" that will be located on the church lawn. The charge for a 10' X 10' space is $10. Vendors are responsible for bringing their own tent, table and chairs, and if power is needed, generator. Vendors can sell anything except hot foods or plate lunches.
Vendors must fill out and submit a Vendor Application with the $10 fee by Wednesday, March 18. Call Debbie Wong Yuen at 928-8039 for the application.
The Church members will sell kalua pig and cabbage bowls, and smoked meat bowls, as well as baked goods, produce, and crafts.
For more information, call 928-8039.
Sign Up Keiki for the Second Annual Kaʻū Children's Business Fair, to be held Saturday, March 21,
Kaʻū Children's Business Fair guidelines are designed to give children the experience of selling a product or service. Parents of younger children (under eight years old) may sit in the booth, but the children should be responsible for set up, customer interaction, and sales. Parents may aid a child, but the child runs the business.
Learn more about participating at childrensbusinessfair.org/pahala. Visit Kaʻū Children's Business Fair's Facebook event page facebook.com/KAUCBF/. RSVP to the event at facebook.com/events/925342784527676/. Text KAUKIDSFAIR to 31996 for updates and information (message and data fees may apply).
Check Out Nāʻālehu Elementary Student Artwork from the 32nd Annual Young At Art Juried Exhibit through Friday, March 27 at the East Hawaiʻi Cultural Center in downtown Hilo. The gallery is open Tuesday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Register for Ocean View Classic Car & Bike Show, Saturday, March 28, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Owners of classic cars and bikes are encouraged to register early, as space is limited.
Contact organizers Dennis Custard at 831-234-7143 or Ron Gall at 808-217-7982 to register or for more info.
Prince Kuhio Hoʻolauleʻa will be held Saturday, March 28 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Nāʻālehu County Park. Reborn after a 20-year hiatus through the efforts of local non-profit Hana Laulima Lāhui O Kaʻū, the event will feature Hawaiian music and cultural demos, hula, crafts, food, and more. The drug- and alcohol-free event will offer entertainment with live entertainment from Gene Akamu and G2G, Uncle Sonny & Bro Tui, Braddah Ben, Lori Lei's Hula Studio, and more. Local personality Kurt Dela Cruz will emcee, and several lucky number prizes will be announced throughout the day.
Hawaiian culture demos and activities, showcasing cultural knowledge of Kaʻū people and those tied to the area, include lauhala weaving, ti leaf lei making, waʻa kaulua (double-hull canoe) tours, kākau (tattoo) artistry, ʻohe kāpala (bamboo stamps), traditional Hawaiian games, and more.
Travel through time by walking through a photo exhibit showcasing the history of Kaʻū, set-up within the Nāʻālehu Community Center. Laulima Lāhui O Kaʻū representatives said they intend this to be like a visit to a mini version of their proposed Kaʻū Hawaiian Cultural Center, which has been their goal for the last 20 years. Visit Hana Laulima's booth at the hoʻolauleʻa to learn more about the revival of the Cultural Center
Choose from a variety of ono food including shave ice, korean chicken, roast pork plates, chili bowls, Kaʻū coffee, Big Island Candies Crunch Bars, and more. Local entrepreneurs will have pop-up shops displaying wares such as Hawaiian arts and crafts, jewelry, shirts, and hats.
Learn more about Junior Rangers, and natural resource management, with Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park rangers; ways to help free the coast of marine debris with Hawaiʻi Wildlife Fund; staying healthy with state Dept. of Health; native Hawaiian healthcare with Hui Mālama Ola Nā ʻŌiwi; ʻōpeʻapeʻa monitoring with Friends of the Kaʻū Bats; and more.
The organization's new logo, symbolizing its rejuvenation, was created by Kaʻū High graduate and local artist Kaweni Ibarra, who is also a Hana Laulima board member. Newly elected board members also include Lisa Derasin, Kupuna Jessie Ke, president Terry-Lee Shibuya, vice-president Elizabeth Naholowaʻa Murph, secretary Nālani Parlin, and treasurer Kehaulani Ke. Membership is $10 per year. For more information about the hoʻolauleʻa, contact Terry Shibuya at 938-3681 or terrylshibuya@gmail.com; Trini Marques at 928-0606 or trinimarques@yahoo.com; or Kupuna Ke.
Hana Laulima Lāhui O Kaʻū promises that the Prince Kuhio Day Hoʻolauleʻa will continue as an annual event.
Mixed Flock Volcano Art Center Exhibit, daily, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Sunday, March 29. Features prints by Margaret Barnaby and pottery by Emily Herb. Glazing techniques demo Saturday, March 7, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222
AdvoCATS, Saturday, April 25, 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. , Ocean View Community Center
Sign Up to Vend at the New ʻO Kaʻū Kākou Nāʻālehu Farmers Market, Mondays and Wednesdays,
Register for Volcano's ʻŌhiʻa Lehua Half Marathon, 10K, 5K, and Keiki Dash by Wednesday, July 22. The second annual event will be held on Saturday, July 25. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to University of Hawaiʻi for furthering research of Rapid ‘Ōhiʻa Death and The Volcano School of Arts & Sciences. See webscorer.com to register.
Half Marathon registration is $70 through May 24, $80 May 25 through July 22, and $90 for late registration. Registration for the 10K is $50 through May 24, $55 May 25 through Jul 22, and $60 for late registration. Registration for the 5K is $35 through May 24, $40 May 25 through July 22, and $45 for late registration. Keiki Dash registration is $10. All registrations are non-transferable and non-refundable.
Late registration is only available at packet pickup or race day morning. Shirts are not guaranteed for late registration. Race Shirts will be included for Half Marathon and 10K participants only. For all other participants, shirts are available to purchase online.
Late registration is only available at packet pickup or race day morning. Shirts are not guaranteed for late registration. Race Shirts will be included for Half Marathon and 10K participants only. For all other participants, shirts are available to purchase online.
Packet pick-up is scheduled for Thursday, July 23 in Hilo ; Friday, July 26 in Volcano; and Saturday, July 27, 5:30 a.m. to 6:30 a.m. at the race start.
Half Marathon will start at 7 a.m. Other distances follow shortly after. Keiki Dash will begin at 10 a.m. on VSAS grounds, with the option of one or two laps – about 300 meters or 600 meters. Race cut-off time for the Half Marathon is four hours. The races will begin and end in Volcano Village
See ohialehuahalf.com.
Half See ohialehuahalf.com.
Tūtū & Me Home Visiting Program is a free service to Pāhala families with keiki, birth to five years old. This caregiver support program offers those taking care of young keiki "a compassionate listening ear, helpful parenting tips and strategies, fun and exciting activities, and wonderful educational resources" from Tūtū & Me Traveling Preschool. Home visits are one hour in length, two to four times per month, for 12 to 15 visits. Snacks are provided. See pidfoundation.org or call 808-938-1088.
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