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| Former Kaʻū High Football Coach Bobby Barba wheels through Kaʻū District Gym parking lot on Tuesday for his gift from Hawaiʻi Food Basket, which distributed 14 days of food to families. See more below. Photo by Julia Neal |
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| The ATM machine will remain open after the temporary closure of Bank of Hawaiʻi in Pāhala on Wednesday. Photo by Julia Neal |
Employees at Bank of Hawaiʻi in Pāhala said they still have their jobs and look forward to returning soon. All are from Kaʻū. Most can walk to work and their children's schools while serving a community that they know well. Customers outside the bank today talked about its ideal location, next to the only pharmacy in Kaʻū, where much of the population picks up medical supplies and sundries, and next to a post office and two food stores.
Employees on duty today said the deposit box and ATM for retrieving cash, and depositing checks and money, will still be operational.
Employees on duty today said the deposit box and ATM for retrieving cash, and depositing checks and money, will still be operational.
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| The drop box will remain open after the temporary closure of the Bank of Hawaiʻi in Pāhala on Wednesday. Photo by Julia Neal |
Bank of Hawaiʻi is one of two financial institutions in Kaʻū, the other being CU Hawaiʻi Federal Credit union with branches in Nāʻālehu and Pāhala, as well as an ATM in Ocean View.
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CU HAWAIʻI FEDERAL CREDIT UNION WILL begin limiting its access to branch lobbies tomorrow, Wednesday, March 25. It will maintain hours while allowing only a few persons at a time into its Nāʻālehu Branch. Its Pāhala branch is a walk up window and members will be asked to maintain social distancing.
President and CEO James Takamine posted the message on CU Hawaiʻūi's website, saying:
"For 65 years CU Hawaiʻi FCU has been committed to the safety and security of Hawaiʻi. Today, as we face uncertainty about COVID-19, that commitment has never been stronger. As we navigate this unprecedented situation, I wanted to personally share more about what we're doing to keep our members, employees and community safe."
In addition to limiting lobby access, he wrote, "The current pandemic calls for some changes in the way we do business. You can rest assured that we are focused on helping our members. We are fortunate to have a number of programs in place that can be of assistance." He suggested: Online/Mobile Banking; Use Mobile Deposit to deposit checks; Bill Pay; Use debit card instead of carrying cash; If cash is needed, use a CU Hawaiʻi or First Hawaiian Bank ATM; Sign up for e-statements; Direct Deposit Use ATMs, Drive-thru, Remote Teller Stations, or Night Depositories.
Reach the CU Hawaiʻi Call Center at 933-6700 or toll free at 1-800-933-6706.
Takamine noted that appointments to be seen in person are being taken to apply for a loan and to open a new account. An online loan application is available through CUHawaii.com. Members who need assistance regarding their loans are asked to call to discuss a loan extension, loan modification, or a loan payment deferral.
"COVID-19 isn't just a threat to our physical health; it's also a threat to our financial health and our economy," wrote Takamine. He noted that CU Hawaiʻi FCU is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration, up to $250,000. "We will get through this crisis together." he said.
Nāʻālehu Branch at 96-5664 Mamalahoa Hwy is open Monday - Thursday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday, 8:30 a.m. to 11;30 a.m. Its ATM is a walk-up open 24 hours a day.
The Pāhala Branch at 96-3208 Maile Street is open on Fridays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
CU Hawaiʻi also operates an Ocean View ATM at 92-8691 Lotus Blossom Lane, Monday - Saturday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
For other branches around the island, see CUHawaii.com.
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HAWAIʻI FOOD BASKET PROVIDED 14 DAYS OF FOOD for Kaʻū families, handing food out at Kaʻū District Gym this morning. A long line of cars and trucks motored through the parking lot for drive-up food distribution. Recipients provided the number of family members to be fed and Hawaiʻi Food Basket volunteers filled up truck beds and vehicle interiors with milk, eggs, and many other fresh foods.
Today's distribution was a trial run and additional food events are planned. Food Basket regularly brought food to Kaʻū on Tuesdays to St. Jude's Episcopal Church in Ocean View, and on Thursdays to Sacred Heart Church in Nāʻālehu and the ʻO Kaʻū Kākou Pantry at Kaʻū District Gym. Food Pantry distributions have been temporarily cancelled around the island.
Hawaiʻi Food Basket posted on its website: "We are actively working to protect vulnerable community members. This work includes preparing adjustments in the distribution of food to reduce contact or large gatherings of individuals such as increasing drive-through distributions and scheduled appointments for food assistance. These solutions involve distribution of boxes with a multi-day supply of shelf-stable food and locally procured fresh produce for individuals & families. We will be posting our schedule of island-wide community distribution sites shortly."
The Food Basket volunteers assist with providing nutrition to 14,000 individuals on the island. Volunteer opportunities include sorting and categorizing food; helping in the office in Hilo; lending a hand in the warehouse; restocking shelves; participating in the organization of an event; and giving out food at locations. Call the East Hawaiʻi Operations Manager at 808-933-6030 or email sarah@hawaiifoodbasket.org.
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BOYS & GIRLS CLUB OF THE BIG ISLAND is planning to reach out to Kaʻū with meals for keiki. The organization began its food service in Hilo on Monday with daily hot meals to support children, kūpuna, the homeless population, and "struggling families affected by the current health and economic crisis," said Boys &
Girls Club CEO Chad Cabral. "As a result of this crisis many people on Island will lose their source of employment. Churches and volunteer groups that help to bring support to our homeless will not have the ability to hold services, collect donations, and convene to help in their normal fashion. And many of our youth will not have the transportation access to get to the school based cafeterias that will be offering the out of school meals.
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CU HAWAIʻI FEDERAL CREDIT UNION WILL begin limiting its access to branch lobbies tomorrow, Wednesday, March 25. It will maintain hours while allowing only a few persons at a time into its Nāʻālehu Branch. Its Pāhala branch is a walk up window and members will be asked to maintain social distancing.
President and CEO James Takamine posted the message on CU Hawaiʻūi's website, saying:
"For 65 years CU Hawaiʻi FCU has been committed to the safety and security of Hawaiʻi. Today, as we face uncertainty about COVID-19, that commitment has never been stronger. As we navigate this unprecedented situation, I wanted to personally share more about what we're doing to keep our members, employees and community safe."
In addition to limiting lobby access, he wrote, "The current pandemic calls for some changes in the way we do business. You can rest assured that we are focused on helping our members. We are fortunate to have a number of programs in place that can be of assistance." He suggested: Online/Mobile Banking; Use Mobile Deposit to deposit checks; Bill Pay; Use debit card instead of carrying cash; If cash is needed, use a CU Hawaiʻi or First Hawaiian Bank ATM; Sign up for e-statements; Direct Deposit Use ATMs, Drive-thru, Remote Teller Stations, or Night Depositories.
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| James Takmine, President and CEO of CU Hawaiʻi Federal Credit Union |
Takamine noted that appointments to be seen in person are being taken to apply for a loan and to open a new account. An online loan application is available through CUHawaii.com. Members who need assistance regarding their loans are asked to call to discuss a loan extension, loan modification, or a loan payment deferral.
"COVID-19 isn't just a threat to our physical health; it's also a threat to our financial health and our economy," wrote Takamine. He noted that CU Hawaiʻi FCU is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration, up to $250,000. "We will get through this crisis together." he said.
Nāʻālehu Branch at 96-5664 Mamalahoa Hwy is open Monday - Thursday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday, 8:30 a.m. to 11;30 a.m. Its ATM is a walk-up open 24 hours a day.
The Pāhala Branch at 96-3208 Maile Street is open on Fridays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
CU Hawaiʻi also operates an Ocean View ATM at 92-8691 Lotus Blossom Lane, Monday - Saturday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
For other branches around the island, see CUHawaii.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.
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| Food Basket with many Kaʻū volunteers, gave out 14 days of food today. See more below. Photo by Julia Neal |
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| Members of ʻO Kaʻū Kākou helped to hand out food to families at Kaʻū District Gym on Tuesday. Photo by Julia Neal |
Hawaiʻi Food Basket posted on its website: "We are actively working to protect vulnerable community members. This work includes preparing adjustments in the distribution of food to reduce contact or large gatherings of individuals such as increasing drive-through distributions and scheduled appointments for food assistance. These solutions involve distribution of boxes with a multi-day supply of shelf-stable food and locally procured fresh produce for individuals & families. We will be posting our schedule of island-wide community distribution sites shortly."
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| Dozens of eggs go into the bed of a pickup that arrived to take food to a Kaʻū family. Photo by Julia Neal |
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| Hawaiʻi Food Basket representatives said giving out the 14-day supply of food was a test run, in part, replacing some Food Pantry operations that put people in closer proximity with one another. Photo by Julia Neal |
BOYS & GIRLS CLUB OF THE BIG ISLAND is planning to reach out to Kaʻū with meals for keiki. The organization began its food service in Hilo on Monday with daily hot meals to support children, kūpuna, the homeless population, and "struggling families affected by the current health and economic crisis," said Boys &
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| The Salvation Army receives food from Boys & Girls Club to distribute to the homeless and needy families. Photo from BGCBI |
"Our daily Community Meal Support Initiative will literally transport and bring nutritional aid to our most vulnerable populations on Island during the crisis and help to fill in some of the shortfalls and resource gaps. This morning Boys & Girls Club began its effort in Hilo by cooking, plating and transporting 210 hot meals.
Boys & Girls Club also committed to prepare and drop off meals to Hope Services Hawai'i, at their three shelters located in East Hawai'i and their shelter in Pahoa and to deliver sealed meals to keiki, kupuna, homeless and families in-need in the Hawaiian Home communities of Keaukaha and Panaewa.
Cabral explained that the initiative will start in Hilo and Puna and shortly expand to Ka'u and particularly the Ocean View community. All meals will be free of charge "and we hope to be able to build the capacity to produce up to 500 meals 7-days a week throughout the duration of this crisis."
To donate, volunteer, and join, see bgcbi.org.
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THERE HAVE BEEN NO DEATHS IN THE ISLANDS FROM COVID-19, the state of Hawaiʻi announced today. The Department of Health had reported that a person passed away from the virus on March 20th on Oʻahu and suffered from multiple underlying health conditions. "The available history for this person suggests potential indirect travel-related exposure." The victim was tested at a clinical commercial laboratory, with indeterminate results. Follow-up testing, by the State Laboratories Division, ruled out COVID-19.
"All of Hawai‘i expresses condolences to the family of the person who died and shares in grieving their loss. Everyone is encouraged to take care of themselves and their loved ones during these difficult times," said the message from state government.
DAILY COVID-19 UPDATE:
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DOMESTIC VIOLENCE IS EXPECTED TO INCREASE with people cooped up, losing jobs, and unable to pay bills, while sheltering from the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a letter released today from U.S Senators. Senators Mazie Hirono, Bernie Sanders, Amy Klobuchar, Kamala Harris, Kristen Gillibrand, Sherrod Brown, Elizabeth Warren, and colleagues asked the Administration to help ensure that domestic violence victims and survivors receive the resources they need during the pandemic. They said that domestic violence service providers anticipate increased need in their services in the wake of the severe measures being taken to stop the spread of the virus, including more people working remotely, being forced to take unpaid leave, or losing their jobs.
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.
NATIONAL VOTING BY MAIL is the goal of Sen. Mazie Hirono during the COVID-19 pandemic.
As a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee's Subcommittee on the Constitution, she, and Sen. Amy Kobuchar and colleagues, introduced the Natural Disaster and Emergency Ballot Act of 2020.
Boys & Girls Club also committed to prepare and drop off meals to Hope Services Hawai'i, at their three shelters located in East Hawai'i and their shelter in Pahoa and to deliver sealed meals to keiki, kupuna, homeless and families in-need in the Hawaiian Home communities of Keaukaha and Panaewa.
Cabral explained that the initiative will start in Hilo and Puna and shortly expand to Ka'u and particularly the Ocean View community. All meals will be free of charge "and we hope to be able to build the capacity to produce up to 500 meals 7-days a week throughout the duration of this crisis."
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| Boys & Girls Club plans to help with food reaching Ocean View children who are out of school. Photo from BGCBI |
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PRODUCE AND RICE will be distributed by Big Island Giving Tree at St. Jude's in Ocean View tomorrow at 3 p.m. for anyone in need. Drive-thru format; those without vehicles are to stand ten feet back and they will be helped. "Mask, gloves & distance, please," Barbara Berskin told The Kaʻū Calendar.
"STAY SAFE, STAY CALM AND STAY PUT," writes Cindy Cutts, editor of the St. Jude's Episcopal Church monthly newsletter. In the April edition, she outlines changes in outreach to the community and church services.
St. Jude's free hot shower program is suspended. The soup kitchen will change from soup to a sack lunch sandwich, fruit, chips, cookie, and a napkin, distributed outside of the church building,9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 28. Drinks will be placed on a table at the back door. The outside restroom will be open so folks can wash their hands before receiving drink and food.
The computer lab is closed. All in-person church services are suspended; watch online at stjudeshawaii.org/worship.html. Church-organized meetings are cancelled. For meetings not organized by the church, contact the group leader.
St. Jude's free hot shower program is suspended. The soup kitchen will change from soup to a sack lunch sandwich, fruit, chips, cookie, and a napkin, distributed outside of the church building,
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| St. Jude's Hannah Makana ʻOhana Hula practice is postponed. Photo by Hannah Urbides |
Donations and contributions "are greatly appreciated and needed to continue our community engagement," states the April newsletter. Send by mail to St. Jude's Episcopal Church, P.O. Box 60269:30 a.m. and noon . Read the newsletter at stjudeshawaii.org/uploads/2/7/0/3/2703074/st._judes_newsletter_april_2020.pdf.
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. |
| Electron microscope image of the novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19. Image from NPR |
DAILY COVID-19 UPDATE:
The state Department of Health reports six cases of COVID-19 confirmed on Hawaiʻi Island. Two were locals who caught the virus elsewhere. One was a visitor who stayed in a Hilo hotel after traveling to Maui and Germany, and has left the island. The three recently confirmed victims' details have not yet been released.
Throughout the state, there are 91 confirmed cases – 14 reported in the last 24 hours – with seven requiring hospitalization. There has been zero deaths from COVID-19 – see article, above.
Throughout the state, there are 91 confirmed cases – 14 reported in the last 24 hours – with seven requiring hospitalization. There has been zero deaths from COVID-19 – see article, above.
According to the World Health Organization, the U.S. has recorded 42,164 cases, including 10,591 reported today. There are 471 deaths, 69 reported today. Worldwide, more than 372,757 people have become victims of COVID-19, with 39,827 reported today. The death toll is 16,231, with 1,722 reported today. New worldwide cases and deaths are about the same as yesterday's.
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE IS EXPECTED TO INCREASE with people cooped up, losing jobs, and unable to pay bills, while sheltering from the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a letter released today from U.S Senators. Senators Mazie Hirono, Bernie Sanders, Amy Klobuchar, Kamala Harris, Kristen Gillibrand, Sherrod Brown, Elizabeth Warren, and colleagues asked the Administration to help ensure that domestic violence victims and survivors receive the resources they need during the pandemic. They said that domestic violence service providers anticipate increased need in their services in the wake of the severe measures being taken to stop the spread of the virus, including more people working remotely, being forced to take unpaid leave, or losing their jobs.
The Senators wrote that "An unintended but foreseeable consequence of these drastic measures will be increased stress at home, which in turn creates a greater risk for domestic violence. According to one recent article, emergency situations have 'historically led to increased reports of domestic abuse' to the National Domestic Violence Hotline.
"In addition, domestic violence service providers expect an increase in the need for emergency childcare and domestic violence shelters, as well as for supplies to keep centers and program sites safe and secure. It is critical that your agencies ensure that victims and survivors of domestic violence continue to have access to these vital services."
Hirono said she also recommends closing loopholes for domestic abusers to get guns, including passing legislation that would keep guns out of the hands of violent offenders by creating a domestic violence charge in the Uniform Code of Military Justice. This law would helps ensure that those convicted of this domestic violence charge cannot buy a gun.
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COUNTY PERMITTING WILL CONTINUE BEHIND CLOSED DOORS in Hilo and Kona. The County of Hawaiʻi's Departments of Public Works and Planning announced today implementation of revised permit applications and inquiry processes effective immediately due to COVID-19 concerns.
As of today, Tuesday, March 24, Hilo and Kona offices of DPW Engineering, Building, and Administration divisions, as well as Planning offices, are closed to walk-in inquiries and submittals until further notice.
COUNTY PERMITTING WILL CONTINUE BEHIND CLOSED DOORS in Hilo and Kona. The County of Hawaiʻi's Departments of Public Works and Planning announced today implementation of revised permit applications and inquiry processes effective immediately due to COVID-19 concerns.
As of today, Tuesday, March 24, Hilo and Kona offices of DPW Engineering, Building, and Administration divisions, as well as Planning offices, are closed to walk-in inquiries and submittals until further notice.
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| Hawaiʻi County Planning Director Michael Yee |
Planning and DPW offices will continue to review and process permits. Permit and document submittal stations are outside permit offices and monitored throughout the day. Staff will tape a note to the box indicating the day and time the box is to be received in the office. Processing will begin within 48 hours. All applications need to include the applicant's name, email, and a contact phone number.
The County requests making general inquiries by phone or email to limit in-person interaction. "Personnel will strive to respond within one business day. Those applicants needing a consultation should call or email to make an appointment," says the statement from the county. "We ask for the public's patience as we expect longer response times. For more information, contact the respective department and/or DPW division. Here is their contact information:
Planning Department: Hilo office: (808) 961-8288; Aupuni Center, 101 Pauahi Street, Suite 3, Hilo, HI, 96720; and Planning Department Kona office: (808) 323-4770; 74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Highway, Bldg. E, Kailua-Kona, 96740. Email: planning@hawaiicounty.gov. Website: hiplanningdept.com. Drop off: Any Planning application, such as Plan Approval, Variances, ʻOhana Dwelling Permit, Short Term Vacation Rental, Change of Zone, etc.
Department of Public Works Engineering Division: Hilo Office: (808) 961-8327; 101 Pauahi Street, Suite 7 Hilo, HI, 96720. Kona Office: (808) 323-4850; 74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Highway; Bldg D, 1st Floor; Kailua-Kona, HI, 96740. Drop off: Grading, grubbing, stockpiling, and work within the County right-of-way applications and construction plans as well as floodplain management documents. Email: dpweng@hawaiicounty.gov. Website: hawaiicounty.gov/departments/public-works/engineering.
Department of Public Works Building Department:
Hilo Office: (808) 961-8331; 101 Pauahi Street, Suite 7; Hilo, HI, 96720. Kona Office: (808) 323-4720; 74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Highway; Bldg E, 1st Floor, Kailua-Kona, HI, 96740. Email: cohbuild@hawaiicounty.gov.
Website: hawaiicounty.gov/departments/public-works/building. Drop off: Building, electrical, plumbing, and sign applications and construction plans.
It is recommended that the permit application process start online at papaaukahi.hawaiicounty.gov.
Inspectors should be contacted via phone or email prior to scheduling an appointment.
Department of Public Works Administration Division: (808) 961-8321; 101 Pauahi Street, Suite 7, Hilo, HI, 96720. Email: public_works@hawaiicounty.gov.
Complaints can be submitted at hawaiicounty.gov/departments/public-works/administration-division/information-complaint-form.
Contractors wishing to submit documents to Contracts section should either mail them or call to schedule an appointment.
The County requests making general inquiries by phone or email to limit in-person interaction. "Personnel will strive to respond within one business day. Those applicants needing a consultation should call or email to make an appointment," says the statement from the county. "We ask for the public's patience as we expect longer response times. For more information, contact the respective department and/or DPW division. Here is their contact information:
Planning Department: Hilo office: (808) 961-8288; Aupuni Center, 101 Pauahi Street, Suite 3, Hilo, HI, 96720; and Planning Department Kona office: (808) 323-4770; 74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Highway, Bldg. E, Kailua-Kona, 96740. Email: planning@hawaiicounty.gov. Website: hiplanningdept.com. Drop off: Any Planning application, such as Plan Approval, Variances, ʻOhana Dwelling Permit, Short Term Vacation Rental, Change of Zone, etc.
Department of Public Works Engineering Division: Hilo Office: (808) 961-8327; 101 Pauahi Street, Suite 7 Hilo, HI, 96720. Kona Office: (808) 323-4850; 74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Highway; Bldg D, 1st Floor; Kailua-Kona, HI, 96740. Drop off: Grading, grubbing, stockpiling, and work within the County right-of-way applications and construction plans as well as floodplain management documents. Email: dpweng@hawaiicounty.gov. Website: hawaiicounty.gov/departments/public-works/engineering.
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| Hawaiʻi County Public Works Director David P. Yamamoto |
Hilo Office: (808) 961-8331; 101 Pauahi Street, Suite 7; Hilo, HI, 96720. Kona Office: (808) 323-4720; 74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Highway; Bldg E, 1st Floor, Kailua-Kona, HI, 96740. Email: cohbuild@hawaiicounty.gov.
Website: hawaiicounty.gov/departments/public-works/building. Drop off: Building, electrical, plumbing, and sign applications and construction plans.
It is recommended that the permit application process start online at papaaukahi.hawaiicounty.gov.
Inspectors should be contacted via phone or email prior to scheduling an appointment.
Department of Public Works Administration Division: (808) 961-8321; 101 Pauahi Street, Suite 7, Hilo, HI, 96720. Email: public_works@hawaiicounty.gov.
Complaints can be submitted at hawaiicounty.gov/departments/public-works/administration-division/information-complaint-form.
Contractors wishing to submit documents to Contracts section should either mail them or call to schedule an appointment.
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.
NATIONAL VOTING BY MAIL is the goal of Sen. Mazie Hirono during the COVID-19 pandemic.
As a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee's Subcommittee on the Constitution, she, and Sen. Amy Kobuchar and colleagues, introduced the Natural Disaster and Emergency Ballot Act of 2020.
The legislation would ensure that Americans are able to vote, even in a public health emergency, by expanding early in-person voting and absentee vote-by-mail to all states. As a last resort, the legislation would also allow voters who did not receive their requested absentee ballot in time for Election Day to use a printable ballot currently only available to military and overseas voters.
The Natural Disaster and Emergency Ballot Act follows the announcements of Georgia and Louisiana that the states are postponing their primaries, delays and confusion about the date of Ohio's primary, and concerns from other states about voting during this pandemic.
"Americans' right to vote is sacred, and we must ensure everyone is able to vote, even in public health emergencies or other natural disasters. While the Trump Administration has been eager to gut our voting rights and support voter suppression efforts, I join my colleagues to protect the fundamentally American right to vote by expanding options to vote by mail or vote in person safely," Hirono said.
Justification documents for the Emergency Ballot Act state that "Public health emergencies and natural disasters are occurring more frequently and create challenges to accessing the ballot box. This legislation would protect access to voting during the COVID-19 pandemic, and other natural disasters and public health emergencies in the future."
The bill would, among other things:
- Require states to provide 20 days of early in-person voting, and no-excuse absentee vote-by mail; and help ensure that states begin processing the votes cast 14 days before Election Day.
- Allow all voters to request absentee ballots online, up to five days before Election Day, and allow states to have deadlines closer to Election Day.
- Provide that absentee ballots postmarked or signed before the close of the polls on Election Day and received on or before the 10 days following Election Day are counted.
- Require states and jurisdictions to establish publicly available contingency plans to ensure eligible Americans can vote during an emergency.
- Help ensure that states provide self-sealing envelopes with prepaid postage for all voters who request a voter registration application, absentee ballot application, or an absentee ballot.
- Reimburse states for costs associated with adding these additional measures.
Other U.S. Senators supporting the bill include: Bernie Sanders, Cory Booker, Kamala Harris, and Elizabeth Warren.
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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THE SUMMER OLYMPICS inTokyo are postponed until Summer of 2021.
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See daily, weekly, and monthly recurring Kaʻū and Volcano Events, Meetings, Entertainment, Exercise, Meditation, and more at kaucalendar.com.
Monday, April 27, 6 p.m. , BIIF Div II First Round
Spring Break for Public Schools is extended through Thursday, April 30 for COVID-19 spread mitigation.
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.
The Natural Disaster and Emergency Ballot Act follows the announcements of Georgia and Louisiana that the states are postponing their primaries, delays and confusion about the date of Ohio's primary, and concerns from other states about voting during this pandemic.
"Americans' right to vote is sacred, and we must ensure everyone is able to vote, even in public health emergencies or other natural disasters. While the Trump Administration has been eager to gut our voting rights and support voter suppression efforts, I join my colleagues to protect the fundamentally American right to vote by expanding options to vote by mail or vote in person safely," Hirono said.
Justification documents for the Emergency Ballot Act state that "Public health emergencies and natural disasters are occurring more frequently and create challenges to accessing the ballot box. This legislation would protect access to voting during the COVID-19 pandemic, and other natural disasters and public health emergencies in the future."
The bill would, among other things:
- Require states to provide 20 days of early in-person voting, and no-excuse absentee vote-by mail; and help ensure that states begin processing the votes cast 14 days before Election Day.
- Allow all voters to request absentee ballots online, up to five days before Election Day, and allow states to have deadlines closer to Election Day.
- Provide that absentee ballots postmarked or signed before the close of the polls on Election Day and received on or before the 10 days following Election Day are counted.
- Require states and jurisdictions to establish publicly available contingency plans to ensure eligible Americans can vote during an emergency.
- Help ensure that states provide self-sealing envelopes with prepaid postage for all voters who request a voter registration application, absentee ballot application, or an absentee ballot.
- Reimburse states for costs associated with adding these additional measures.
Other U.S. Senators supporting the bill include: Bernie Sanders, Cory Booker, Kamala Harris, and Elizabeth Warren.
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.
PUBLIC AND CHARTER SCHOOLS REMAIN CLOSED through April 30.
All traditional instruction is postponed until then. Enrichment opportunities,
online resources, and instructions packets will be sent out by teachers and
schools. Specific plans for the 10,000 graduates in the state are expected by
the end of the week.
THE SUMMER OLYMPICS in
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THERE IS NO TSUNAMI THREAT to Hawaiʻi from a magnitude 7.8
earthquake just before 5 p.m. , in the
vicinity of the Kuril Islands . The island are between Japan
and Russia , in
the Sea of Okhotsk
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See Kaʻū events, meetings, entertainment. See Kaʻū exercise,
meditation, daily, bi-weekly, and weekly recurring events.
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throughout Kaʻū, from Miloliʻi through Volcano, and free on
stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com
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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 28, 11 a.m. , host Hilo
Wednesday, April 8, 3 p.m. , @Honokaʻa
Saturday, April 11, 11 a.m. , host Kamehameha
Saturday, April 18, 11 a.m. , host Kohala
Wednesday, April 22, 3 p.m. , host HPA
Wednesday, April 29, 3 p.m. , BIIF Div II Semi Finals
Boys Baseball Cancelled
Saturday, March 28, 1 p.m. , host Hilo
Tuesday. April 7, 3 p.m. , @Honokaʻa
Saturday, April 11, 1 p.m. , host Kamehameha
Saturday, April 18, 1 p.m. , host Kohala
Boys Volleyball Cancelled
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
Friday, April 17, 6 p.m. , host Kealakehe
Wednesday, April 22, 6 p.m. , @Waiakea
Friday, April 24, 6 p.m. , host HPA
Tuesday, April 28, 2:30 p.m. , BIIF Div II Semi Finals
Wednesday, April 29, 5 p.m. , BIIF Div II Finals
Judo Cancelled
Saturday, March 28, 10:30 a.m. , @Waiakea
Saturday, April 4, 10:30 a.m. , @Keaʻau
Saturday, April 11, 10:30 a.m. , BIIF at Kona
Saturday, April 18, 10:30 a.m. , BIIF at Hilo
Track Cancelled
Saturday, March 28, 9 a.m. , @Waiakea
Saturday, April 4, 9 a.m. , @HPA
Saturday, April 11, 2 p.m. , @Keaʻau
Saturday, April 25, 2 p.m. , @Keaʻau
Spring Break for Public Schools is extended through Thursday, April 30 for COVID-19 spread mitigation.
UPCOMING
FRIDAY, MARCH 27
CANCELLED: Stewardship at the Summit, Friday, March 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.
CANCELLED: The Lake at Halemaʻumaʻu Monthly Kahuku Coffee Talk, Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m., HVNP Kahuku Unit Visitor Contact Station. Free. nps.gov/havo
SATURDAY, MARCH 28
CANCELLED: Final 2020 Hawaiian Humpback Whale Marine Sanctuary Ocean Count, Saturday, March 28, 7:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m., orientation included. Register at oceancount.org. Locations in Kaʻū are: Kaʻena Point in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, Miloli‘i Lookout, Ka Lae Park, and Punalu‘u Black Sand Beach Park. Participants tally humpback whale sightings and document the animals' surface behavior during the survey, which provides a snapshot of humpback whale activity from the shoreline.
POSTPONED: Prince Kuhio Day Hoʻolauleʻa, Saturday, March 28, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Nāʻālehu County Park. Event features Hawaiian music and cultural demos, hula, crafts, food, and more. Drug- and alcohol-free. 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. Organized by local non-profit Hana Laulima Lāhui O Kaʻū. Membership $10 per year. Contact Terry Shibuya at 938-3681 or terrylshibuya@gmail.com; Trini Marques at 928-0606 or trinimarques@yahoo.com; or Kupuna Ke.
CANCELLED: 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.
CANCELLED: Forest Work Day, Saturday, March 28, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Learn some native plants, help restore a beautiful rainforest, and get some exercise. Tim Tunison leads. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222
MONDAY, MARCH 30
CANCELLED: 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.
ONGOING
CANCELLED: The Lake at Halemaʻumaʻu Monthly Kahuku Coffee Talk, Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m., HVNP Kahuku Unit Visitor Contact Station. Free. nps.gov/havo
SATURDAY, MARCH 28
CANCELLED: Final 2020 Hawaiian Humpback Whale Marine Sanctuary Ocean Count, Saturday, March 28, 7:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m., orientation included. Register at oceancount.org. Locations in Kaʻū are: Kaʻena Point in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, Miloli‘i Lookout, Ka Lae Park, and Punalu‘u Black Sand Beach Park. Participants tally humpback whale sightings and document the animals' surface behavior during the survey, which provides a snapshot of humpback whale activity from the shoreline.
POSTPONED: Prince Kuhio Day Hoʻolauleʻa, Saturday, March 28, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Nāʻālehu County Park. Event features Hawaiian music and cultural demos, hula, crafts, food, and more. Drug- and alcohol-free. 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. Organized by local non-profit Hana Laulima Lāhui O Kaʻū. Membership $10 per year. Contact Terry Shibuya at 938-3681 or terrylshibuya@gmail.com; Trini Marques at 928-0606 or trinimarques@yahoo.com; or Kupuna Ke.CANCELLED: 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.
CANCELLED: Forest Work Day, Saturday, March 28, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Learn some native plants, help restore a beautiful rainforest, and get some exercise. Tim Tunison leads. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222
MONDAY, MARCH 30CANCELLED: 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.
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
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.
See ohialehuahalf.com.
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.
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.
