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Thursday, March 19, 2020

Ka‘ū News Briefs, Thursday, March 19, 2020

Rep. Tulsi Gabbard is off the presidential campaign trail after endorsing Joe Biden for U.S. President on
 Wednesday.She said she will connect with constituents as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives for rural Hawaiʻi. She met with Kaʻū Coffee farmers (above) at Kaʻū Coffee Mill in 2016. See more below. Photo by Julia Neal
MEALS FOR STUDENTS, FROM KAʻŪ to Kapaʻa, Kauaʻi, will continue across the state, despite closing schools until at least April 6, Gov. David Ige announced today. "I commend and fully support the Hawaiʻi Department of Education for furthering the state's efforts to implement social distancing. These are challenging decisions being made every day across the state but are essential to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19.
     "Educating Hawaiʻi's students remain our top priority. And we know that in addition to providing a positive learning environment, schools also provide a safe place for our keiki. As decisions for extension and closures are being announced, I'm very pleased that the Department of Education has a plan in place to continue providing meals to our students, especially to those who need it most. The comprehensive plan will help communities from Kaʻū to Kapaʻa. I encourage parents to check the DOE website for details on the meals programs."
     The governor emphasized that "The situation is constantly changing, and the DOE will be adjusting its plans to meet the changing conditions and address issues, such as opportunities for distance learning, special needs students, and graduation. I want to thank the Board, DOE, parents, students, and the community for their understanding as we work though this difficult time. We will get through this crisis if we continue to work together as a community."

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Mehe's Kaʻū Bar & Grill in Ocean View is open daily for lunch, dinner, and the bar, with karaoke
suspended. Photo from Yelp
SIT DOWN DINING IN KAʻŪ AND VOLCANO remains at some locations, while many establishments have moved to take-out service, during these times of concern that the novel coronavirus could spread here. The number of confirmed cases on this island totals one.
     In Nāʻālehu, South Side Shaka Restaurant & Bar is open for sit-down, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. Hana Hou Restaurant is open for sit-down from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. Punaluʻu Bake Shop is open 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, offering window service with dining in the gardens. Aloha Mix Food Truck Café is open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, except Saturday and Monday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., with outdoor dining. 
Thai Thai Bar & Bistro is allowing ten table sittings at a time and
offering take out. Photo from Thai Thai
     In Ocean View, Mehe's Kaʻū Bar & Grill is open daily, 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. for lunch and 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. for dinner. Bar is open 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., but karaoke is suspended. A message on the restaurant's Facebook says, "We need to protect our guests and our community, whom we care so much about. As for now, we are still operating the restaurant, being very vigilant about sanitizing and social distancing. We appreciate your understanding and will keep you informed of any changes. Mahalo for your support during these difficult times."
     L&L Drive Inn at Ocean View has closed indoor dining and offers take-out, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. Ka Lae Garden has moved to take-out only, 11 a.m to 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays. DJ's Pizza & Bake Shop is open for take out 10:30 a.m to 6:60 p.m., Mondays through Saturdays.
Farmers Market at Cooper Center will remain open
this Sunday from 6 .m. to 10 a.m. Photo by Julia Neal
     In Volcano, Thai Thai Bar & Bistro is open for take-out and ten sit-down diners at a time, 11:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. daily. The Rim restaurant at Volcano House is open daily for sit-down, with breakfast from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m., lunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., and dinner from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Uncle George's Lounge at Volcano House is open for sit-down, 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
     At Kīlauea Military Camp, Lava Lounge is closed and Crater Rim Café and the 10-Pin Grill are open for take-out only.
     In Volcano Village, Kīlauea Lodge, Café Ono, Lava Rock Café, ʻŌhelo Café, Big O's Pizza, and Big O's Sandwiches and Coffee are all take-out only. Thai Grindz, Aunty Pon's, and Tuk Tuk Thai food trucks are open, but without their outdoor seating.
     The Sunday morning farmers market at Cooper Center remains open from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. with fresh produce, prepared foods, live plants, and crafts. Organizers said they plan to reassess every week. This week's change will be that there are no tables set up at which to socialize. "We want people to come to market, support our vendors, buy what you need/want, and go home. We are doing what we can so we can stay open. Vendors will be spaced out to address health concerns. Parking may be limited. Please help support our local farmers and vendors."

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O Kaʻū Kākou is closing its Nāʻālehu Market until the COVID-19 season has passed.
Market days are Mondays and Wednesdays, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Photo from OKK
TODAY, OKK DECIDED TO SUSPEND ITS NĀʻĀLEHU MARKET through March, as the number of COVID-19 cases grow across the state. Manager Sue Barnett noted that the market location in Nāʻālehu is blessed with a large place that allows vendors to be distanced from one another and for people to avoid crowding at any one booth. She said that continuing in April depends on whether COVID-19 begins to circulate in the Hawaiʻi Island community, and that dozens of Hawaiʻi Island tests results are expected to be announced by the state Department of Health soon.
     Should the market reopen, sponsoring organization O Kaʻū Kākou is prepared to set up disinfectant stations, post signs on social distancing, and provide an attendant to prevent crowds of people from gathering together, said Barnett. Barnett also noted that some 2,000 people a day are arriving to Hawaiʻi Island by plane. Many of the visitors are attracted to farmers markets and careful management of social distancing would have to be in place to keep the market going.
     The regular schedule of the OKK Nāʻālehu Market is Mondays and Wednesdays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the site of future senior citizen housing, mauka of Hwy 11. Barnett said the public will be notified when the market reopens.

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KAʻŪ COFFEE MILL'S STORE SHUT ITS DOORS AT THE END OF TODAY to weather out the concern that the novel coronavirus could spread among visitors, staff and community. Manager Lou Daniele said it was a very hard decision and that staff will be on reduced hours to spend time on other work at the mill, which grows, harvests, and processes Kaʻū Coffee, selling retail and wholesale to buyers around the world. Processing services for other farmers will still be available, Daniele said.

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Grass Roots Institute of Hawaiʻi displayed this image of an economy in decline today as it raised an alarm of increasing
government control over daily life. Image from Grass Roots Institute of Hawaiʻi
CORONAVIRUS IS MORE THAN A THREAT TO HEALTH is the headline for the Grass Root Institute of Hawaiʻi's Weekly Report, released today. It says: "The coronavirus has been causing alarm around the world, but possibly worse than the virus itself are the reactions we are seeing from our governments. Not only must we worry about contracting the coronavirus, we also face losing many of our economic freedoms, civil liberties, and the ideal of limited, accountable government."
     Joe Kent, Grassroot Institute of Hawaiʻi's executive vice president, cautioned in last Sunday's Honolulu Star-Advertiser that, "With the coronavirus causing havoc for both the U.S. stock market and Hawaiʻi's tourism industry, now is not the time for state lawmakers to be increasing spending, taxes, or regulations." Institute President Keliʻi Akina delivered a similar message a few days earlier in his weekly President's Corner column, saying the "coronavirus recession" was "a wake-up call to the Legislature: It's time to discard its big-spending plans and focus on ways to help the economy recover quickly."
     Grass Roots Institute points out that "Since those columns were written, Hawaiʻi House and Senate leaders suspended this year's legislative session — arguably a very good idea in any year — but then Gov. David Ige coupled that with suspension of the state's open-records law. Ige also ordered residents to 'heed any orders and guidance of federal and state public health officials, including but not limited to, the imposition of social distancing measures;' declared 'price gouging' illegal; and
ordered that measures be identified that could prevent hoarding."
     On Oʻahu, Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell ordered all Oʻahu restaurants, bars and nightclubs to close indoor and outdoor dining services for at least 15 days starting Friday night.
     On Kauaʻi, Mayor Derek Kawakami implemented a 9 p.m.-to-5 a.m. curfew starting Friday and lasting for an indefinite time, during which residents will not be allowed to leave their homes.
     Grass Roots Institute asks whether these steps can be called "martial law."
     The opinion piece says that "One bright spot was the governor authorizing licensed out-of-state physicians, osteopathic physicians, physician assistants, practical nurses, registered nurses, advanced practice registered nurses, and advance practice registered nurses with prescriptive authority to now practice in the state without a Hawaiʻi license — but that is something that should have been allowed anyway."

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House Speaker Scott Saiki wants people
to shelter in place for 15 days
across the state.
AN IMMEDIATE STATEWIDE SHUT DOWN FOR THE NEXT 15 DAYS is the goal of the state Speaker of the House Scott Saiki. He wrote to Gov. David Ige today, saying, "The handling of this COVID-19 pandemic has been utterly chaotic and there is mass confusion among the public. The number of positive test results is exponentially increasing on a daily basis. To protect people and the long-term stability of our economy, I implore you to immediately order the shut-down and sheltering-in place of all people in the Sate of Hawaiʻi." He also asked for a quarantine on all travelers arriving from outside Hawaiʻi for 15 days, a prohibition on all non-essential inter-island and out-of-state travel, and closure of all public and private schools, daycare centers, and preschools.
     Saiki asked the governor to direct Hawaiʻi Emergency Management Agency and its Director, Adjutant general Kenneth Hara, to ensure that the supply chain for basic necessities - food, medicine, water, communications, gasoline, cargo, and public safety - is secure. Saiki asked Ige to order Hara to secure and requisition hospital and medical supplies to assist with "the coming need to treat individuals to COVID-19, and work in full cooperation and coordination with the United States Indo-Pacific Command and all of our military partners."
       The House Speaker concluded his letter to the governors, saying, "I implore you to take immediate action for the health, safety, and welfare of all the people of Hawaiʻi."

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"NO CONTACT WITH ANYBODY, IF AT ALL POSSIBLE UNTIL APRIL 30" is the recommendation of Lt. Gov Josh Green during an interview on KHON News today. He urged as much social distancing as possible for the next six weeks to reduce the risk of novel coronavirus spreading in Hawaiʻi. Green said he agrees with Gov. Ige in recommending a halt to non-essential travel to Hawaiʻi until April 30. He said anyone returning to Hawaiʻi or coming home should be quarantined for two weeks. "In addition to these actions, everyone needs to stay home with exceptions of getting food/groceries and medical care," said Green on his Facebook. Green is a physician and former resident of Kaʻū.

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The State Senate Chambers are closed, after it was revealed today
 that Sen. Claence Nishihara is a victim of COVID-19.
THE HAWAIʻI STATE CAPITOL CLOSED TODAY after it was revealed that state Sen. Clarence Nishihara tested positive for COVID-19. House Speaker Scott Saiki directed everyone at the Hawaiʻi Capitol to leave until provided with clear clearance. He said the Capitol will be closed at least until April 5.

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AN EMERGENCY MEETING ON COVID-19 has been called by Hawaiʻi County Council this afternoon for tomorrow, March 20. The meeting will involve request to the state Department of Health regarding COVID-19 testing, and discussion with the county Corporation Counsel regarding the Council's authority under emergency declarations and proclamations. Public testimony will be disallowed in person but accepted until 10 a.m. on Friday. In a statement the Council "encourages the public to submit thoughts, comments, and input via written testimony."
     Written testimony must be submitted by 10 a.m. on March 20 by email to counciltestimony@hawaiicounty.gov; facsimile to (808) 961-8912; or U.S. mail to the County Clerk' s Office in Hilo at 25 Aupuni St., Hilo, HI, 96720. All written testimony, regardless of time of receipt, will be made a part of the public record. The Council asks the public to submit separate testimony for each item.

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Kaʻū's Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard ended her presidential campaign yesterday. Photo from Tulsi 2020
TULSI GABBARD ENDED HER CAMPAIGN, ENDORSING JOE BIDEN FOR PRESIDENT on Wednesday. Here is her announcement: "Our nation is facing an unprecedented global crisis that highlights the inextricable bonds of humanity, and how foreign policy and domestic policy are inseparable. We are all in this together and we must all rise to meet this moment — in service to our country and our fellow man. This is not the first time we have faced adversity together. And it will not be the last.
     "After the terrorist attack by al-Qaeda on our country on 9/11, we stood together as Americans, motivated to serve, marshaling our forces to defeat our common enemy. I and so many others enlisted in the military to do just that. Likewise today, as Americans and all of humanity, we face a common enemy. It is once again time, as Americans and as neighbors in this global community, that we stand together, and work hand in hand to defeat this new enemy — the coronavirus.
     "Throughout my life, and this campaign, my motivation has been to serve God, our country, and the American people as best I can. I feel that the best way I can be of service at this time is to continue to work for the health and wellbeing of the people of Hawaiʻi and our country in Congress, and to stand ready to serve in uniform should the Hawaiʻi National Guard be activated.
     "After Tuesday’s primary results, it is clear that Democratic Primary voters have chosen Vice President Joe Biden to be the person who will take on President Trump in the general election. I know Vice President Biden and his wife and am grateful to have called his son Beau, who also served in the National Guard, a friend. Although I may not agree with the Vice President on every issue, I know that he has a good heart and is motivated by his love for our country and the American people. I'm confident that he will lead our country guided by the spirit of aloha — respect and compassion — and thus help heal the divisiveness that has been tearing our country apart.
     "Today, I'm suspending my presidential campaign, and offering my full support to Vice President Joe Biden in his quest to bring our country together.
Tulsi Gabbard endorsed Joe Biden to become the Democratic nominee for President. Photo from Common Dreams
     "I will continue to advocate for a 21st century foreign policy. One based on mutual respect and cooperation instead of confrontation, where we as a community of nations can work together to overcome the challenges that our people face — preventing and stopping pandemics like the coronavirus now affecting all of us, tackling climate change, combating terrorism, and removing the existential threat of nuclear war which hangs over all our heads. I will continue to do everything I can to help bring an end to the new Cold War and nuclear arms race, and end regime change wars, which are costing us trillions of dollars, so we can invest these precious resources in the needs of the American people — health care, rebuilding our infrastructure, education, and so much more.
     "I want to extend my best wishes to my friends Senator Bernie Sanders, his wife Jane, Nina Turner, and their many supporters for the work they’ve done. I have a great appreciation for Senator Sanders' love for our country and the American people and his sincere desire to improve the lives of all Americans.
     "To the many people across our country who dedicated their time, energy, and resources to my campaign, working tirelessly to get our message out, I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart. I look forward to speaking to you more in the coming days about why I made this decision, and how we can continue to work together for our common cause. Thank you for standing with me. I will always have your back.
     Gabbard said earlier she would not run for re-election to the U.S. House of Representatives where she has served Kaʻū and all of the rural areas around the state since 2013.

D'Andrea Pelletier will give a Facebook
concert on Friday at Noon.
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A FACEBOOK LIVE CONCERT will be given by D'Andrea Pelletier, "The Queen of Opera,"  tomorrow at noon. The soprano, who lives in Volcano, has performed several times in Kaʻū.
See facebook.com/queenofopera.

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DAILY COVID-19 UPDATE:
     Department of Health reports that there are 26 positive cases of novel coronavirus throughout the state, with one case on Hawaiʻi Island. DOH and Hawaiʻi Island healthcare partners have established COVID-19 test facilities at Hilo Medical Center, Kona Community Hospital, and North Hawaiʻi Community Hospital. DOH reminds the public that "individuals who are NOT sick, who are NOT symptomatic, that are NOT presenting flu-like symptoms such as fever, sore throat, or dry cough will not be considered for testing." In order to be tested, a physician or a health clinic must prescribe the test to be done, and the test taker must have a valid ID and an insurance card.  For those who do not have a healthcare doctor or insurance, evaluation will be conducted at an Emergency Room.
     According to the World Health Organization, the U.S. has 7,087 cases, including 3,551 reported today, with 100 deaths, 42 reported today. Worldwide, there are more than 209,800 cases, including 16,556 reported today, and 8,778 deaths, including 828 reported today.

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MORE COVID-19 RELATED CANCELLATIONS:
     Upcoming fundraisers for Ocean View Community Skate Park are cancelled, but they have a new website: oceanviewskatepark.com.
     Kaʻū Food Pantry at St. Jude's will not be open on Tuesday, March 31, and will remain closed until further notice.

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A MAGNITUDE 3.9 EARTHQUAKE this morning just before 7 a.m. was felt by at least 80 people. The epicenter was 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) west northwest of Pāhala. No damage or injuries were reported.

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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
See daily, weekly, and monthly recurring Kaʻū and Volcano Events, Meetings, Entertainment, Exercise, Meditation, and more at kaucalendar.com.

All Kaʻū High School and other public school sporting events are canceled until further notice, including:
Kaʻū Spring Sports Schedule
Girls Softball Cancelled
Saturday, March 21, 11 a.m., @Keaʻau
Saturday, March 28, 11 a.m., host Hilo
Wednesday, April 8, 3 p.m., @Honokaʻa
Boys Baseball Cancelled
Saturday, March 21, 1 p.m., @Keaʻau
Saturday, March 28, 1 p.m., host Hilo
Tuesday. April 7, 3 p.m., @Honokaʻa
Boys Volleyball Cancelled
Tuesday, March 24, 6 p.m., host Kamehameha
Tuesday, March 31, 6 p.m., @Kohala
Thursday, April 2, 6 p.m., host Keaʻau
Tuesday, April 7, 6 p.m., @Honokaʻa
Friday, April 10, 6 p.m., @Ehunui
Judo Cancelled
Saturday, March 21, 10:30 a.m., @Konawaena
Saturday, March 28, 10:30 a.m., @Waiakea
Saturday, April 4, 10:30 a.m., @Keaʻau
Track Cancelled
Saturday, March 21, 2 p.m., @Konawaena
Saturday, March 28, 9 a.m., @Waiakea
Saturday, April 4, 9 a.m., @HPA

Spring Break for Public Schools is extended through Monday, April 6 for COVID-19 spread mitigation.

UPCOMING
FRIDAY, MARCH 20
CANCELLED: Stewardship at the Summit, 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.

SATURDAY, MARCH 21
CANCELLED: Hawaiʻi Wildlife Fund Kaʻū Clean-Up, Saturday, March 21. Volunteer spaces are limited; RSVP to kahakai.cleanups@gmail.com.

CANCELLED: Kauahaʻao Congregational Church Fundraising Bazaar, Saturday, March 21 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the corner of Mamālahoa Hwy, Kamaʻoa Road, and Pinao Street, just above the Wong Yuen Store in Waiʻōhinu. Church members will sell kalua pig and cabbage bowls, and smoked meat bowls, as well as baked goods, produce, and crafts. Other vendors will offer more items. For more information, call 928-8039.

CANCELLED: Sign Up for and Attend Second Annual Kaʻū Children's Business Fair, Saturday, March 21, 10 a.m. to noon at Pāhala Community Center. Young entrepreneurs ages seven and 18 share their talents by selling handmade items and services. 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).

RESCHEDULED FOR JUNE 20: Writing for Inner Exploration and Life Reflection Workshop with Tom Peek, Saturday, March 21, 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

RESCHEDULED FOR MAY 16: Improv Comedy Show, Saturday, March 21, 6:30 p.m. Headlined by Keli Semelsberger and Matt Kaye. A Big Island Comedy Theater showcase. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

MONDAY, MARCH 23
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.

CANCELLED: Hour-Long Lomilomi Massage, Mondays, March 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 24
CANCELLED: Registration for Charades, open Monday-Friday, March 23-27, for program at Kahuku Park in HOVE on Tuesday, March 31, 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Free. Teresa Anderson, hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation, 929-9113

CANCELLED: Paper Straw Tulip Craft Registration Deadline, Tuesday, March 24. Program Wednesday, March 25, 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Kaʻū District Gym. Ages 5 to 12. hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation, 928-3102

CANCELLED: The Third Voyage of Captain James Cook, Tuesday, March 24 at 7 p.m., Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium. Captain James Cook once wrote that he intended to go not only "farther than any man has been before me, but as far as I think it is possible for a man to go." Join local guide and historian Rob Kitsell as he looks closer at the man who was Captain James Cook, and the fateful third voyage when Cook was killed at Kealakekua Bay, February 14, 1779. Part of Hawai‘i Volcanoes' ongoing After Dark in the Park series. nps.gov/havo

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25
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.

CANCELLED: Pū‘ohe Demonstration, Wednesday, March 25 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., Kīlauea Visitor Center lānai. The pū‘ohe is a Hawaiian bamboo trumpet with a deep sound somewhat like a conch shell. Like other native instruments, it takes the spirit breath to produce the proper sound. Join rangers and Hawai‘i Pacific Parks Association staff as they share their knowledge and help you make your own pū‘ohe. Part of Hawai‘i Volcanoes' ‘Ike Hana No‘eau "Experience the Skillful Work" workshops. nps.gov/havo

CANCELLED: Gone Country Band Live Country Music, Wednesday, March 25, 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., Kīlauea Military Camp's Lava Lounge in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Line dancers will accompany the performance. $5 cover charge. KMC open to all authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. kilaueamilitarycamp.com, 967-8365

THURSDAY, MARCH 26
Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium Closed for Renovation through June 30. The visitor center is closed until further notice due to COVID-19 spread mitigation. Park films, including Born of Fire, Born of the Sea, will not be shown. A popular seven-and-a-half minute 2018 eruption video will continue to be shown on a television in the exhibits area, once the center reopens, and is available online for free download.

ONGOING
Kaʻū Art Gallery is looking for local artists. Call 808-937-1840

AdvoCATS, Saturday, April 25, 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.Ocean View Community Center. Free spay/neuter for cats. Reserve spot in advance. 895-9283, advocatshawaii.org

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.
     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 at VSAS.
     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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