Kaʻū News Briefs, Tuesday, Feb. 28, 2023

 Kaʻū Coffee Mill submitted testimony to the Hawai'i Legislature this session urging truth in labeling to protect 100 percent
  Kaʻū Coffee from branders who mislead buyers. Photo from Kaʻū Coffee Mill

TESTIMONY SUPPORTING TRUTH IN LABELING OF COFFEE in Hawai'i has been pouring into the state House of Representatives after pouring into the state Senate. In House testimony submitted to the Consumer Protection Committee for its Thursday public hearing, Louis Daniele, General Manager of Kaʻū Coffee Mill wrote: "As a grower, processor, roaster and retailer of 100% Kau Coffee, I find it deplorable that the State of Hawaii has time and time again bowed down to the Hotel and Hospitality industries in regards to this issue.
    "As the signature agricultural product produced in this state, why don’t the coffee farmers and our product have the same protection from the State of Hawaii as Idaho potatoes, Vermont Maple Syrup, California Almonds? I don’t think I could taste 10% of Vermont Maple Syrup and I certainly would not buy a watered down version of any product. If I was duped into buying such a product under false labeling practices I would never buy or trust any product coming out of that geographical region again.
    "At the end of the day, it is the blood, sweat and tears of the coffee farmer that has built the Hawai'i coffee industry, not the blender or the hotels that push 10% blends on unsuspecting visitors. Who is reaping the economic benefit of such practices? I assure you it is not the hard-working farmers who produce some of the world’s finest coffee." 

    See more testimony on honest coffee labeling that went to House and Senate in the Feb. 21  Kaʻū News Briefs at http://kaunewsbriefs.blogspot.com/2023_02_21_archive.html.
     Kaʻū's representative in the House, Jeanné Kapela, was an author of the bill. Kaʻū's Sen. Dru Kanuha was an author of the bill in the Senate.

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KAʻŪ'S U.S. SENATOR MAZIE HIRONO ISSUED SUPPORT FOR JULIE SU, Pres. Joe Biden's nomination for U.S. Secretary of Labor. In a statement released Thursday, Hirono said, "Throughout her career, Deputy Secretary Su has been a strong and effective champion for working people, fighting to

Julie Su receives support from Sen.
Mazie Hirono to be confirmed
as U.S. Secretary of Labor.

combat wage theft, create jobs and ensure workers are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve. For the past two years, Deputy Secretary Su has played a critical role at DOL, working closely with Secretary Walsh to build a more inclusive economy that provides every American with the opportunity to succeed."  

   With confirmation by the U.S. Senate, Su will be the first American Asian Pacific Islander Cabinet-level Secretary in the Biden Administration, "bringing critical diversity and lived experience to DOL and this Administration. President Biden has shown his continued confidence in Deputy Secretary Su and I look forward to voting to confirm her as quickly as possible so she can continue building on this Administration’s record of standing with working people and ensuring no community is left behind,” said Hirono. 

    Before joining U.S. Department of Labor, Su was Labor Secretary for California. She has a degree from Stanford University and a law degree from Harvard. She is known for leading the El Monte Garment Slavery Case, which led to the T-Visa for victims of human trafficking. Like Hirono, she is from an immigrant family.

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A HIGH WIND ADVISORY AND HIGH SURF WARNING FOR KAʻŪ are in effect. Civil Defense reports that high winds could be here through Wednesday and high surf through Thursday. The National Weather Service issued the High Surf warning down east facing shores of Hawai'i Island to South Point. Civil Defense warns: "Very strong breaking waves and powerful currents will make swimming dangerous and life-threatening. Beach-goers, swimmers, and surfers should heed all advice given by ocean safety officials; when in doubt, don't go out. Be aware that beaches may close without notice."

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SCIENCE CAMPS OF AMERICA HAS ANNOUNCED SCHOLARSHIP OPENINGS for its Pāhala program this July. Two full scholarships are available exclusively for Kaʻū students: One is provided by Edmund C. Olson Trust and one is courtesy of Gary and Apolonia Stice ʻOhana. "Their generous gifts will pay the full registration fee for a student from Kaʻū who will be entering grades 8-12 in the fall. Additional partial scholarships are also available," said Science Camps of America founder Mike Richards. "Hawaiʻi Island is the classroom, with exploration spanning the magnificent forests, shores, and mountains.

.    Land & Sea Camp from July 1 to 10 is one of two science camps held in Pāhala each year by Science Camps of America. The other is Air & Space from July 11 through 20. Teens can attend one or both of the sleepaway camp sessions. This summer, Science Camp for Teens is celebrating its 10th year in Pāhala.
    Students can get hands-on with geology, forestry, marine biology, environmental engineering, and ecosystems during Land & Sea Camp. They can investigate the atmosphere, climate, astronomy, planetary science, aerospace engineering, and space exploration during Air & Space Camp. "Either way, teens will make lifelong connections with campers from around the globe as science becomes an adventure," said Richards.
    Apply online by visiting 

https://scicamp.org/scholarship.

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CONSCIOUS COMMERCE is the topic on Thursday and Friday, March 9 and 10 for the in-person Teamwork, Leadership and Preparing for the New Economy Training Serices. It runs for two days at University of Hawai'i at Hilo, UCB 127 at 200 W. Kawilli St. It is free and sponsored by Ku'ikahi Mediation Center.

    Leader of the two-day workshop is Sylvia Dolena, who said, "In today's world, entrepreneurs need to be aware of local and global environmental issues. "How can you retool or re-envision a business in our post-pandemic world? Learn a process to go from idea to business plan for small business startups or businesses that must reinvent themselves for a new economy."
    Entrepreneurs can learn how to: Align passion and purpose to livelihood; identify and overcome obstacles to success; create vision and mission; create a sustainable business plan; envision a small carbon footprint; build a success and support team; and propose and sell ideas.
    Dolena worked for Hewlett-Packard (HP) for 18 years, as a Global Programs and Operations Manager and Strategic Change Project Manager. She has worked as an external business consultant with HP and other high-tech and retail companies like AMD and Best Buy. Recently, Dolena was a Project Manager for one Fortune 100 Company's new Leadership Certification Program. She delivers workshops and leadership development programs in Hawai'i and nationally. She holds an MBA in Organizational Effectiveness from University of Southern California and an MS in Strategic Management of Technology Organizations from Stanford and IESE, the European School of Business in Barcelona.
    To register for this free in-person training, visit https://consciouscommerce.eventbrite.com or contact Ku'ikahi Mediation Center at (808) 935-7844 or info@hawaiimediation.org
    This Training Series is made possible thanks in part to funding from the Atherton Family Foundation, County of Hawaiʻi, and Hawai'i Island United Way, and in partnership with University of Hawai'i at Hilo.

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REMEMBERING OUR HANABATA DAYS is the theme of the 2023 reunion for graduates and friends of alumni of  Kaʻū schools. The event dates are Oct. 27 and 28 in Las Vegas at the California Hotel, where special rates for rooms and food have been arranged for four nights within the Oct. 25-31 window, with the opportunity to reserve additional nights.  Reserve rooms no later than Sept. 25 by calling 888-715-0711.

    One of the organizers, Joe Tateyama, said that ahead of the trip, alumni are invited to send in photos "that will stir up memories" of the schools in Pāhala and Nā'ālehu to kayyonemori@yahoo.com. For more contact Sharon (Yoshimura) Okino at shsokino@yahoo.com or Joe Tateyama at joetat@hotmail.com.

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Traditional weaving is one of the cultural learning experiences
at the public grand opening of Ke Ola Pu'uhonua this Saturday.
Photo by Julia Neal

PUBLIC GRAND OPENING OF KE OLA PU'UHONUA adjacent to Punalu'u Bakeshop in Na'alehu is this Saturday, March 4, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The public and 'ohana are invited for a cultural experience featuring a hula performance by Halau Hula O Leionalani at noon, music, hands on teachings by such living treasures as Uncle Chucky Leslie with his fisheries; Kupuna Linda Saffery with her lauhala and makaloa weaving; Kupuna Bully Davies with coconut weaving; and Uncle Waltah Wong with his traditional hale and more. 

    Uhane Pohaku Na Moku O Hawai'i, Inc. will serve free hot dogs and juice from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for all guests. The organization is headed by Kawehi Ryder and Kumu Hula Debbie Ryder. 

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FREE FOOD

St. Jude's Hot Meals are free to those in need on Saturdays from 9 a.m. until food runs out, no later than noon. Volunteers from the community are welcome to help and can contact Karen at pooch53@gmail.com. Location is 96-8606 Paradise Circle Drive in Ocean View. Those in need can also take hot showers from 9 a.m. to noon and use the computer lab from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Free Meals Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays are served from 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Nā'ālehu Hongwanji. Volunteers prepare the food provided by 'O Ka'ū Kākou with fresh produce from its gardens on the farm of Eva Liu, who supports the project. Other community members also make donations and approximately 150 meals are served each day, according to OKK President Wayne Kawachi.

OUTDOOR MARKETS

https://www.okaukakou.org/scholarships
-for-local-students

Volcano Evening Market, Cooper Center, Volcano Village, Thursdays, 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., with live music, artisan crafts, ono grinds, and fresh produce. See facebook.com.

Volcano Swap Meet, fourth Saturday of the month from 8 a.m. to noon. Large variety of vendors with numerous products. Tools, clothes, books, toys, local made healing extract and creams, antiques, jewelry, gemstones, crystals, food, music, plants, fruits, and vegetables. Also offered are cakes, coffee, and shave ice. Live music.                                                                                                                                  Volcano Farmers Market, Cooper Center, Volcano Village on Sundays, 6 a.m. to 10 a.m., with local produce, baked goods, food to go, island beef and Ka'ū Coffee. EBT is used for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly Food Stamps. Call 808-967-7800.

O Ka'ū Kākou Market, Nā'ālehu, Wednesdays, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Contact Nadine Ebert at 808-938-5124 or June Domondon 808-938-4875. See facebook.com/OKauKakouMarket.

Ocean View Community Market, Saturdays and Wednesdays, 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., corner Kona Dr. Drive and Hwy 11, near Thai Grindz. Masks mandatory. 100-person limit, social distancing required. Gate unlocked for vendors at 5:30 a.m., $15 dollars, no rez needed. Parking in the upper lot. Vendors must provide their own sanitizer. Food vendor permits required. Carpooling is encouraged.

          

Kaʻū News Briefs, Monday, Feb. 27, 2023

Coffee berry borer, which can devastate coffee production on this island, will be subject to a
predator wasp, with recent approval from USDA and the state.  Photo from U.H.

A WASP WILL BE INTRODUCED TO HELP KILL OFF COFFEE BERRY BORERS that can devastate the local coffee industry. The state and federal government recently gave permission to release the wasp as a biological control by approving the Final Environmental Assessment for the project with a Finding of No Significant Impact. The report noted that testing showed the wasp would not kill native beetles in Hawai'i.

     The first release is expected to be in South Kona, where there has been heavy damage by the borer. The location is near the USDA ARS laboratory and University of Hawai'i experiment station to facilitate monitoring. Ka'u Coffee farmers too have been affected with farms spending many thousands of dollars each year on protecting their coffee beans from the borer, which lives inside the coffee bean and hollows it out.

        The parasitoid wasp chosen to control CBB is  Phymastichus coffea. USDA's Agricultural Research Service in Hilo and Hawaiʻi Department of Agriculture Plant Plant Quarantine Branch approved the application.

A predatory wasp attacks a coffee berry borer in a coffee
bean. Photo from Environmental Assessment

    The final EA says that Coffee Berry Borer "is the most destructive insect pest of coffee globally. Though endemic to Central Africa, CBB is now found in almost every coffee-producing country in the world. In 2010, it first invaded the island of Hawai’i where high quality coffee is the second largest cash crop, valued at more than $55 million during the 2020-21 season. Coffee berry borer has since invaded coffee on the islands of O'ahu, Maui and Kau'i. Coffee crop loss due to CBB is estimated at $7.7 million. CBB has had the effect of making coffee farming more intensive and less profitable: damage causes significant losses in yield and alters the flavor profile of salvageable coffee beans. If left unmanaged, CBB can damage ˃90% of the crop.

    "The primary means of control in Hawaii is using the microbial insecticide Beauveria bassiana and sanitation (removal of all coffee berries after harvest). Biological control of CBB using parasitoids has been conducted in many countries around the world, especially in Latin America (Mexico south to Brazil) and has potential for Hawaii. One of the most promising agents is a parasitoid wasp, Phymastichus coffea LaSalle (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae). Phymastichus coffea is a primary, gregarious, idiobiont endoparasitoid of CBB adult females. After being parasitized by P. coffea, females stop oviposition and usually die after 4-12 days. Therefore, P. coffea was chosen as a potential biological control agent and was brought from Colombia into a quarantine containment facility in Volcano, Hawai'i for host range testing to determine whether the parasitoid might attack non-target species and thereby pose a risk to the environment."

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MAKING SURE THAT COFFEE TREES RESISTANT TO COFFEE LEAF RUST can produce high quality beans for the market was the aim of a recent coffee tasting.
    A report from University of Hawai'i College of Agriculture & Human Resources says three coffees were grown at the Kona Research Station in Kainaliu and cultivated similarly with the same fertilizer and CLR spray program. All coffee used for this tasting were harvested in the 2022-2023 season, medium roasted on 2/20/23, finely ground, and served as a pour-over. The coffee to water ratio used was 1:17 and the

U.H. and famers are testing hybrid coffee trees that are resistant
to coffee leaf rust, above. Photo from U.H.

water was from the purified water station at the Captain Cook Choicemart. 

    Coffee A was a Kona Typica variety grafted onto Coffee liberia rootstock. These trees are CLR-susceptible. Only ripe cherry were pulped, fermented overnight, washed, dried, and hulled. Once hulled, the green beans were hand-sorted with a size 16 screen and physical defects such as CBB-damaged, shriveled, cracked, shells, and discolored beans were removed.
    Coffee B was a mix of color break to ripe cherry from a mix of 15+ Catimor hybrid trees. These trees are CLR-resistant. The cherry were pulped and honey dried. They were not fermented or washed. Once dried, the parchment was hulled and the green beans were hand-sorted with a size 16 screen. Physical defects such as CBB-damaged, shriveled, cracked, shells, and discolored beans were removed.
    Coffee C was a mix of ripe cherry only from two specific Catimor hybrid trees that were previously cupped in March 2022. One tree cupped at an 81.58 and the other at an 84, indicating a level of specialty grade coffee. These trees are CLR-resistant. The cherry were pulped, fermented overnight, washed, dried, and hulled. Once hulled, the green beans were hand-sorted with a size 16 screen and physical defects such as CBB-damaged, shriveled, cracked, shells, and discolored beans were removed.
    There were 62 participants in the blind tasting with these results: 42.7% selected Coffee C (Catimor hybrids), which are CLR resistant, while 29.8% people selected Coffee A (Kona Typica) as their favorite and 27.4% selected Coffee B (honeyed mix of Catimor hybrids) as their favorite.

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Sanya Cowal, of U.C. Santa Cruz, would
like to interview coffee farmers.

A COFFEE LEAF RUST RESEARCH AND MANAGEMENT UPDATE happens Teusday, Feb. 28 by zoom at 9:30 a.m.
    Dr. Lisa Keith of USDA PBARC will present "Managing CLR: A Research Update", Dr. Zhiang Cheng and Lilly Buchholz of UH-CTAHR will present "Brief Update on Field Trials of Systemic and Biological Fungicides for the Management of Coffee Leaf Rust", and Julie Coughlin of UH-CTAHR will present on an "IR-4 Pesticide Registration Program Update on CLR"​.
    All recorded presentations are available for viewing at the Kona Extension YouTube Coffee Leaf Rust playlist. The event is free and open to all. Register at www.HawaiiCoffeeEd.com/clrwebinars to receive the Zoom link.

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KA'U COFFEE FARMERS ARE INVITED TO BE INTERVIEWED by Sanya Cowal, a Ph.D. student at University of California Santa Cruz. She studies  study the ecological and social dynamics of coffee production and is looking for coffee producers who might be willing to chat with her for about an hour regarding farming practices for a study about coffee farming knowledge systems. She plans to conduct interviews in person in June and July. She said, "I would like to share the results in an article made available to all who are interested as well as publish a paper in an academic journal." Those interested in participating, can reach out to her at scowal@ucsc.edu or 503-867-9901.

ENOKI MUSHROOMS ARE RECALLED AND STATE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH HAS ISSUED AN ALERT. The voluntary recall is for enoki mushrooms sold in Hawai‘i, produced by Taiwan-based Changhua County Mushrooms Productions Cooperative and distributed by Jan Fruits Inc. According to DOH, these mushrooms have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.
    The recall is the result of a routine sampling program by DOH’s Laboratory Preparedness and Response Branch which revealed that the enoki mushrooms contained Listeria monocytogenes. No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with the enoki mushrooms.

    The enoki mushrooms are sold in a 7.05oz (200g) clear plastic package with a green-lettered

“Premium,” printed with two QR scan codes and UPC 8 51084 00835 8 on the back side of a package. The package has no lot code or dates.
    DOH recommends for anyone who has purchased this product to "throw it away or return it to the place of purchase. If you have consumed this product, watch for symptoms such as stomach cramps, diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, or fever. If symptoms occur, contact your healthcare provider.
    In addition, DOH and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  recommend the following for all other enoki mushrooms:

    Thoroughly cook enoki mushrooms before serving or consuming them, do not serve or consume them raw.
    Do not use raw enoki mushrooms as garnish.
    Do not add raw enoki mushrooms on top of soup dishes right before serving. The enoki mushrooms will not get hot enough to kill Listeria.
    Keep raw enoki mushrooms separate from foods that won’t be cooked.
    Wash hands after handling raw enoki mushrooms.
    DOH notes that listeriosis is a life-threatening, invasive infection caused by eating Listeria–contaminated food. The disease primarily affects pregnant individuals and their newborns, older adults, and persons with immune systems weakened by cancer, cancer treatments, or other serious conditions (like diabetes, kidney failure, liver disease, and HIV/AIDS). A person with listeriosis generally has fever and muscle aches and can have a bloodstream infection or meningitis. Although people can sometimes develop listeriosis up to two months after eating contaminated food, symptoms usually start within several days, often with diarrhea. Listeriosis is treated with antibiotics.
    Anyone suspecting listeriosis should contact a healthcare provider. Listeria is a bacterium that can be found in dust, soil, water, sewage and in the environment, where produce can become contaminated.

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Banana poka, also called banana lilikoi is
invasive between 3,800 ft. and 6,800 ft. elevation
 on MaunaLoa and is targeted for removal
this month for survey and control by HVNP.
Photo from state Dept. Land & Natural Resources

FLIGHT OPERATIONS TO SERVICE REMOTE PLACES in March are announced by Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park:
    March 2 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. for crew support sling loads in ʻŌlaʻa between 3,500- and 4,500-ft. elevation.

March 8 between 7:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. for survey and control of invasive banana poka at the 3,800-ft. to the 6,800-ft. elevation on Mauna Loa. In addition, flights are planned for crew support at the Great Crack boundary fence line between 1,000- and 2,500-ft. elevation.
    March 14 between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. for survey and control of invasive guinea grass along Keauhou Trail from sea level to the 2,400-ft. elevation.

     March 22 between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. multiple flights are planned to service the park's radio repeater on Mauna Loa. A second mission to survey segments of Mauna Loa Trail impacted by the eruption and to post signs at backcountry cabins is also planned.

    
    In addition, the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory may conduct additional flight operations over Kīlauea and Mauna Loa to assess volcanic activity and maintain instrumentation.
    The park statement says that it "regrets any noise impact to residents and park visitors. Dates and times are subject to change based on aircraft availability and weather.
    Management of the park requires the use of aircraft to monitor and research volcanic activity, conduct search-and-rescue missions and law enforcement operations, support management of natural and cultural resources, and to maintain backcountry facilities."

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FREE FOOD

St. Jude's Hot Meals are free to those in need on Saturdays from 9 a.m. until food runs out, no later than noon. Volunteers from the community are welcome to help and can contact Karen at pooch53@gmail.com. Location is 96-8606 Paradise Circle Drive in Ocean View. Those in need can also take hot showers from 9 a.m. to noon and use the computer lab from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Free Meals Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays are served from 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Nā'ālehu Hongwanji. Volunteers prepare the food provided by 'O Ka'ū Kākou with fresh produce from its gardens on the farm of Eva Liu, who supports the project. Other community members also make donations and approximately 150 meals are served each day, according to OKK President Wayne Kawachi.

OUTDOOR MARKETS

https://www.okaukakou.org/scholarships
-for-local-students

Volcano Evening Market, Cooper Center, Volcano Village, Thursdays, 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., with live music, artisan crafts, ono grinds, and fresh produce. See facebook.com.

Volcano Swap Meet, fourth Saturday of the month from 8 a.m. to noon. Large variety of vendors with numerous products. Tools, clothes, books, toys, local made healing extract and creams, antiques, jewelry, gemstones, crystals, food, music, plants, fruits, and vegetables. Also offered are cakes, coffee, and shave ice. Live music.                                                                                                                                                        Volcano Farmers Market, Cooper Center, Volcano Village on Sundays, 6 a.m. to 10 a.m., with local produce, baked goods, food to go, island beef and Ka'ū Coffee. EBT is used for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly Food Stamps. Call 808-967-7800.

O Ka'ū Kākou Market, Nā'ālehu, Wednesdays, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Contact Nadine Ebert at 808-938-5124 or June Domondon 808-938-4875. See facebook.com/OKauKakouMarket.

Ocean View Community Market, Saturdays and Wednesdays, 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., corner Kona Dr. Drive and Hwy 11, near Thai Grindz. Masks mandatory. 100-person limit, social distancing required. Gate unlocked for vendors at 5:30 a.m., $15 dollars, no rez needed. Parking in the upper lot. Vendors must provide their own sanitizer. Food vendor permits required. Carpooling is encouraged.

          

Kaʻū News Briefs, Sunday, Feb. 26, 2023

Kahea Mai Ka ʻĀina keiki are all smiles after receiving certificates upon completing the Kaʻū Hawaiian cultural sustainability program sponsored and taught by Hana Laulima Lāhui O Kaʻū last November. The organization is putting on the Prince Kūhiō Ho'olaulea on Saturday, March 25.
Photo by Kassie Ross

PRINCE KŪHIŌ HO'OLAULE'A IS ROLLING OUT ITS PROGRAM FOR MARCH 25. The seventh annual Prince Kūhiō Hoʻolauleʻa will be back in action, organized by local non-profit Hana Laulima Lāhui O Kaʻū. It will take place at Nāʻālehu Ballpark, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Hana Laulima Lāhui O Kaʻū members said they are excited to host this community event, which migrated to a virtual celebration in 2020, and then took a hiatus during COVID. 

    The festival will feature music, hula, food, arts and crafts, Hawaiian cultural demos and activities, as well as informational booths and lucky number prizes. "Please come & experience a mini model of the Kaʻū Hawaiian Cultural Center right in the heart of Kaʻū as we continue to perpetuate the Hawaiian Culture and mālama our future keiki's generations to come," said Hana Laulima President Terry-Lee Shibuya.
     Kaʻū Hawaiian Civic Club will share a look into Prince Kūhiō's life, the hoʻolaule'a's namesake. Gene Akamu & Friends kick off the entertainment lineup filled with Hawaiian music, hula and local favorites. Musicians also delighting the crowd will be Braddah Ben Mejia; the Green Sands Trio, comprised of Tui Masaniai, Sonny Ramos and Denny Barnes; and the Backyahd Braddahs, made up of Ti Chun, Sheldon Salmo and Cheydon Salmo. Visitors will enjoy hula performances by Lori Lei's Hula Studio, under the direction of Kumu Hula Lori Lei Shirakawa, as well as by Hālau Hula O Leonalani, under the direction of Kumu Hula Debbie Ryder.

    Intended to promote economic growth and activity, the hoʻolauleʻa will feature local artisans, cooks and fundraising for sports teams and clubs. There will be an international spread of food booths including everything from Hawaiian plates of kalua pig and laulau, Filipino plate lunch favorites, Thai food, shoyu chicken, Korean chicken, char siu plates, shave ice, halo halo, boba drinks, taco salad, hamburgers, hot dogs, tons of baked goods and more. Vendors will sell jewelry, wood carvings, Kaʻū Coffee, T-shirts and more.
    Event-goers can interact with Hawaiian cultural activities and demos and receive information about local programs and services from area nonprofits. Play Hawaiian games, watch a master weave with coconut fronds, learn to play ʻukulele and visit a waʻa (canoe) on site to learn about canoe-building and voyaging. There will also be opportunities to pick up a Native Hawaiian plants while supplies last,register for one of 100 free refrigerators with the Hawaiian Economic Opportunity Council, receive Native Hawaiian health information and restoration and conservation efforts in Hawaiʻi.
    Major event sponsors include Nāʻālehu Shopping Center, Black Sand Beach LLC, County of Hawaiʻi P&R, Edmund C. Olson Trust, ʻO Kaʻū Kākou and Masazo's Pig Farm.

    Anyone interested in having a hoʻolauleʻa booth, volunteering or becoming an event sponsor, call or text Terry-Lee Shibuya at (808) 928-863, or email hanalaulimalahuiokau@gmail.com as soon as possible. Vendor forms are due March 8.
    Hana Laulima Lāhui O Kaʻū's mission is to support the development of a new economic base for the district of Kaʻū that will enhance economic growth, and advance a secure economic future for the community and the children of Kaʻū, while preserving the people of Kaʻū's cultural heritage and respect for the ʻāina (land). The non-profit has been hosting Kahea Mai Ka ʻĀina, a Hawaiian cultural and sustainability programs for keiki of all ages for decades. Its most recent program concluded last November with Kaʻū students learning how to make an imu and cook kalua pig for their 'ohana, coconut-weaving, lei-making, as well as oli, mele and Hawaiian language. Students went home with huli, or kalo to plant at home, fertilizer they bagged and mixed themselves, as well as T-shirts, booklets and a strengthened connection to their Kaʻū Hawaiian cultural roots.

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THE 60TH ANNIVERSARY OF PĀHALA PUBLIC & SCHOOL LIBRARY celebration will be held Thursday, March 2.

     On the agenda is entertainment, a Tiny Art Contest and snacks. 

      Performing will be Halau Hula Leonalani at 3 p.m.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar. See latest print edition at kaucalendar.com, in the mail and on stands.

ANNUAL FRIENDS OF KA'U LIBRARIES BUSINESS MEETING will be held on Tuesday, March 14 at 4 p.m. at Pāhala Public & School Library, 96-3150 Pikake St. Election of officers is on the agenda.

     A statement from the non-profit says, "Everyone is encouraged to attend and support our Kaʻū libraries. The whole community benefits from having great libraries, so we welcome everyone who wants to support our local libraries and help promote our motto: Want to Succeed? Read!"

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar. See latest print edition at kaucalendar.com, in the mail and on stands.

THE HAWAI'I CONSERVATION ALLIANCE has extended the deadline for its 2023 Conference submission of abstracts to present papers on conservation studies and issues to Monday, Feb. 27 at 5 p.m. Hawai'i Conservation Conference is held in Honolulu at Hawai'i Convention Center June 27 - 29 and sees many organizations and academics involved with Kaʻū attending and sharing their research and stories. 

    Sponsors include USGS, The Nature Conservancy, National Parks Service, University of Hawai'i - Hilo, NOAA, Hawai'i Dept of Forestry & Wildlife and many more.

    The theme for this year's conference is Aia i hiʻikua, i hiʻialo – Reflecting on our Past; Dreaming on our Future. A statement from the organizers says, "As we return to an in-person Conference, our community will share cutting-edge science research from the field as well as innovative tools and approaches for addressing critical island conservation issues with a special focus on research and management presentations that affect the natural resources upon which Hawaiʻi depends. We ask all abstract authors to have their abstracts relate back to the Conference theme or at least one Conference Track. The Conference Tracks are: Managing Conservation Reliant Species and Habitats into the Future; Understanding and Addressing Longstanding Problems and Needs; Opportunities for Conservation Collaboration Across Sectors; Advancement in Conservation Research and Management; Growing the Workforce of the Future through Education and Capacity Building; and Collaborative Community-Based and Culturally Grounded Management.

    Register to give a paper and to attend at https://www.hawaiiconservation.org/conference/2023-conservation-conference/

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar. See latest print edition at kaucalendar.com, in the mail and on stands.

FREE FOOD

St. Jude's Hot Meals are free to those in need on Saturdays from 9 a.m. until food runs out, no later than noon. Volunteers from the community are welcome to help and can contact Karen at pooch53@gmail.com. Location is 96-8606 Paradise Circle Drive in Ocean View. Those in need can also take hot showers from 9 a.m. to noon and use the computer lab from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Free Meals Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays are served from 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Nā'ālehu Hongwanji. Volunteers prepare the food provided by 'O Ka'ū Kākou with fresh produce from its gardens on the farm of Eva Liu, who supports the project. Other community members also make donations and approximately 150 meals are served each day, according to OKK President Wayne Kawachi.

OUTDOOR MARKETS

https://www.okaukakou.org/scholarships
-for-local-students

Volcano Evening Market, Cooper Center, Volcano Village, Thursdays, 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., with live music, artisan crafts, ono grinds, and fresh produce. See facebook.com.

Volcano Swap Meet, fourth Saturday of the month from 8 a.m. to noon. Large variety of vendors with numerous products. Tools, clothes, books, toys, local made healing extract and creams, antiques, jewelry, gemstones, crystals, food, music, plants, fruits, and vegetables. Also offered are cakes, coffee, and shave ice. Live music.                                                                                                                                                        Volcano Farmers Market, Cooper Center, Volcano Village on Sundays, 6 a.m. to 10 a.m., with local produce, baked goods, food to go, island beef and Ka'ū Coffee. EBT is used for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly Food Stamps. Call 808-967-7800.

O Ka'ū Kākou Market, Nā'ālehu, Wednesdays, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Contact Nadine Ebert at 808-938-5124 or June Domondon 808-938-4875. See facebook.com/OKauKakouMarket.

Ocean View Community Market, Saturdays and Wednesdays, 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., corner Kona Dr. Drive and Hwy 11, near Thai Grindz. Masks mandatory. 100-person limit, social distancing required. Gate unlocked for vendors at 5:30 a.m., $15 dollars, no rez needed. Parking in the upper lot. Vendors must provide their own sanitizer. Food vendor permits required. Carpooling is encouraged.

Kaʻū News Briefs, Saturday, Feb. 25, 2023

Hokulele Basketball Draws Teams Islandwide, More Planned for May

Hokulele Basketball Club drew many teams from around the island Saturday to Robert Herkes Ka‘ū District Gym in Pāhala. A two-day basketball event sponsored by Hokulele at the same venue is expected in late May to raise money for coaching, competition and travel for youth from six to 16. 

Photo by Jan Panera

PLANS FOR SEWAGE TREATMENT IN PĀHALA AND NĀ'ĀLEHU went to public meeting in Pāhala on Thursday. County officials said that Pāhala will likely be the first community served.
County Department of Environmental Management Director Ramzi Mansour and Deputy Director Brenda Iokepa Moses reported that percolation tests for soils at several locations in Pāhala have been conducted by engineering consultants.  A Preliminary Engineering Report will go the the federal Environmental

The old sugar plantation town of Nā‘ālehu where the county will replace
gang cesspools. Image from Dept. of Environmental Management

Protection Agency by May 6. The same will be done for Nā‘ālehu, with the Preliminary Engineering Report due on Sept. 3. The EPA must approve systems for both towns. The projection is for the new systems to be operative with the old gang cesspools shut down no later than July 21, 2026 in Pāhala and Dec. 21, 2027 in Nā‘ālehu .
    Iokepa-Moses and Mansour reviewed the overall history of the federal government banning gang cesspools nationwide. These gang cesspools serve many of the houses build long ago by now defunct sugar plantations in Pāhala and Nā‘ālehu. They also noted that all cesspools, including those at individual homes, will become illegal statewide in 2050. 

    The county, state and federal governments are looking for ways to speed up their conversion to systems that better protect fresh groundwater and ocean water along the shorelines sooner. They said that 45,000 to 55,000 cesspools on this island must convert by 2050.
    Mansour confirmed that the county will pay for the new sewage treatment systems to close the old gang systems. Options are to either build Individual Wastewater Systems in each yard or piping

The old sugar plantation town of Pāhala where the county will replace
gang cesspools. Image from Dept. of Environmental Management

wastewater to new package wastewater treatment plants through new or old collection systems. 

    In Pāhala, the county has committed to paying new sewage treatment for 174 properties. In Nā‘ālehu, the county plans to pay for treatment for 194 properties.
    The Individual Wastewater System models would vary from small units, which would require pumping every five to 10 years, or septic tanks with leach fields, depending on slope and size of yards. While the county would pay for their construction, the county would either maintain them for a fee or the individuals would maintain them. To build the Individual Wastewater Systems, the county would either contract for construction or provide vouchers to homeowners to hire approved contractors with approved plans.
    See much more and maps of the homes to be serviced at www.hawaiicounty.gov/departments/environmental-management/pahala-naalehu
    The county gives this history of the situation starting with the C. Brewer sugar company that shut down its sugar operations in 1996. "In Ka‘ū, C. Brewer built and operated large capacity cesspools connected to properties in Pāhala and Nā‘ālehu. In 2003, C. Brewer requested assistance from the County of Hawai‘i to close the large capacity cesspools.  In 2010, the County of Hawai'i agreed to assume ownership of the existing collection system and large capacity cesspools with the goal of constructing a new and improved wastewater treatment system for Pāhala and Nā‘ālehu. In 2020, the County of Hawai'i decided to reevaluate the lagoon wastewater treatment system because of the discovery of a much more extensive lava tube system than previously anticipated in Pāhala.  This also led to reevaluating systems that would be a better fit for the communities of Pāhala and Nā‘ālehu and reduce environmental and fiscal concerns. The County of Hawai‘i remains committed to finding the best wastewater system for Pāhala and Nā‘ālehu."

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar. See latest print edition at kaucalendar.com, in the mail and on stands.

Applying for numerous Hawai'i Rise Scholarships is open for students from March 1 to June 1; winners from
last year shown above. Photo from Hawai'i Rise

HAWAI'I RISE FOUNDATION IS ACCEPTING SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS, from March 1 through June 1, with one of their scholarships, named for Rachel Leilani Gangwes, giving priority to Kaʻū students. The numerous Hawai'i Rise Foundation scholarships are geared toward graduating seniors and residents of Hawai'i Island.
    Students answer essay questions as part of their application process. Some questions encourage the students to look into their past and share how they have grown through adversity. Others prompt them to look at issues in their communities and consider ways to give back and improve where they come from. Here are the scholarships being offered for 2023:
      The Rachel Leilani Gangwes Scholarship is donated by the Gangwes 'Ohana in memory of their beloved daughter and sister, Rachel. Rachel was born with Trisomy 18 syndrome (Edwards Syndrome), a

disorder of human chromosomes which occurs in approximately one in 7,000 live born infants. Despite having a life expectancy of one year of age, Rachel thrived and lived for 19 years. Priority will be given to applicants from Kaʻū and/or those pursuing careers in Special Education or Nursing.
    The Holomua Scholarship is offered by Keaukaha General Store. This scholarship encourages students to "holomua - improve, progress and move forward". This year the qualifications have expanded to include not only students going to college but also those heading for a trade school or work study program as well.
    The Ho'opuakea Scholarship is donated by Napua, Kealani and Kalae Canda. "Ho'opuakea" means "full of light/to shine" and this scholarship hopes to encourage students to discover what makes them shine and how they can use their light to make the world a better and brighter place.
    The Aloha Will Save The World Scholarship, is sponsored by Aloha Will Save The World Creator and Big Island Firefighter/Paramedic, Bronson Kobayashi. Applicants will share what aloha means to them and how they will impact the world with aloha. Recipients for this scholarship can be from any Hawaiian island and can be entering any year of college.
    The Onipa'a Scholarship is donated by Pua Wong and Jackie Meggs, both survivors of severe accidents on Hawai'i Island. To honor the countless medical professionals whose knowledge and expertise allowed them to fully recover in Hawai'i – they would like to encourage Hawai'i youth to enter the medical field or become a first responder. Two recipients will be chosen.
    The Na'au Ho'omaika'i Scholarship is donated by Ka'iulani Bautista. "Na'au Ho'omaika'i" means grateful heart and the recipients of this scholarship are encouraged to embrace the attitude of gratitude in their daily life. Two recipients will be chosen, must be pursuing a post-secondary degree from an accredited college.

    The Kim & Kids Scholarship is a new scholarship being offered this year by Kim & Kids Foundation, donated by Kim Kimi's children: Breeani Sumera-Lee, Bronson and Brock Kobayashi. This scholarship prompts the applicants to think about how their small actions can create ripples that spread outward to affect big change.
    The Charles and Dorothy deSilva Scholarship is a new scholarship being offered this year by Lisa Noelani Robbins in honor of her grandparents and their perseverance through the many challenges of life. Priority will be given to applicants pursuing a degree in pharmacy, automotive technology or other CTE, or Hawaiian language or culture.
    More information about these scholarships can be found at hawaiirisefoundation.com/ IG: @hawaiirisefoundation and keaukahageneralstore.com/ IG: @keaukahageneral. Applications can be completed online and will be open March 1st to June 1st 2023. Winners will be announced July 1, 2023 and the scholarship funds will be disbursed to the enrolled university/program. Those interested in sponsoring a scholarship and for any further information/questions, email  contact@hawaiirisefoundation.com.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar. See latest print edition at kaucalendar.com, in the mail and on stands.

THE MISSING SLOW SLIP EVENTS ON KILAUEA'S SOUTH FLANK is the title of this week's Volcano Watch, written by U.S.G.S. Hawaiian Volcano Observatory research geophysicist Ingrid Johanson:

      Over the past two decades, both scientists and members of the public have anticipated the occurrence of slow slip events (SSEs) on Kīlauea’s south flank. These events are recorded by the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory’s (HVO) continuous GPS network, which show as much as 2 cm (0.75 inches) of increased seaward motion of the flank over 2-3 days—equivalent to about a M6 earthquake.

    South flank SSEs occur on the nearly-flat decollement fault that sits 6-8 km (4-5 miles) below the ground surface at the interface of Kīlauea and the preexisting ocean floor. The decollement fault can slip in large earthquakes, as well as via steady creep. “Steady creep” means that portions of the decollement fault are continuously sliding very slowly.
    Because of their slow speed, SSEs do not generate the seismic waves that cause hazardous shaking. Thus, both steady creep and SSEs safely release stress.

The top panel is from before the 2018 Kīlauea eruption and shows two steps corresponding to slow slip events (SSEs). The bottom panel is from after 2018 and shows no evidence of step-like motion indicative of SSEs, although the slight curve does suggest that a post-eruption increase in seaward motion is slowly returning to background. The inset photo is of the KAEP instrument site, on Kīlauea’s south flank. USGS plots.

    After 2005, SSEs on Kīlauea’s south flank occurred every 2.5 years, give or take 3 months. These included SSEs in June 2007, February 2010, May 2012, and October 2015. HVO anticipated that another SSE would happen between February and August of 2018.

    Instead, the lower East Rift Zone eruption of Kīlauea began on May 3, 2018. If a slow slip event had occurred during this eruption, the unique spatial and temporal pattern in the continuous GPS would have still been detectable. However, no SSE occurred.
    Furthermore, there has not been another SSE on Kīlauea’s decollement fault since 2018. It has now been just over seven years since the last one occurred in 2015. One reason for this may be the M6.9 earthquake that occurred on May 4, 2018, just after the first lower East Rift Zone eruptive vent opening.
    The variety of slip behaviors (earthquakes, creep, SSEs) on the decollement fault suggests that the fault has zones with different frictional properties. Some areas have “velocity-weakening” frictional properties, which allows them to initiate (nucleate) earthquakes, and some areas have “velocity-strengthening” friction, which leads to steady creep. Slow slip events can occur in “velocity-strengthening” regions, but can also be an indication that the frictional properties of the fault are more complicated.
    “Velocity-weakening” frictional properties are something most of us a familiar with. If you’re trying to move a heavy box, you just need to get the box sliding a little bit before it moves easily. This is because the strength of the frictional force between the box and floor goes down once it starts sliding.
    Earthquakes occur as quickly as they do because once the stress on the fault is high enough to slide it a little (nucleate), it becomes easier to continue slipping until the excess stress is used.

U.S.G.S. Hawaiian Volcano Observatory research geophysicist Ingrid Johanson
authored this week's Volcano Watch. USGS Photo

    “Velocity-strengthening” friction is less intuitive; its more similar to “drag” processes. If you have ever tried to quickly wade through knee-deep water, then you may remember that it gets harder, the faster you try to move. The best strategy is to choose a slow even pace, one that matches the drag force of the water to your strength.    In the same way, faults with velocity-strengthening friction must release their stress slowly and evenly, balancing the frictional force that increases as they slide, to the driving stress.
     So why would the M6.9 earthquake prevent SSEs from occurring? Although earthquakes can’t nucleate in velocity-strengthening regions, if an earthquake starts with enough energy, it can grow into an SSE region. The effect is somewhat like running from shore into the ocean; you might get far if you start with enough speed. This is what the 2018 M6.9 earthquake did; its epicenter was offshore and west of Kalapana, but the earthquake involved slip on a 26 km (16 mile) length of the fault, stretching to the west and including the region of the decollement fault that produced SSEs.
    The massive stress release of the earthquake rupture means that the section of the fault that produced SSEs may need time before it has built enough stress to start producing SSEs again.
    Observing what happens next and what (if anything) brings the SSEs back, could provide a fascinating view into the frictional properties of Kīlauea’s south flank decollement fault. The massive changes that the 2018 eruption brought to the landscape and to Kīlauea, will continue to drive interesting science for years to come.
    Locally, there were two earthquakes with three or more felt reports in the Hawaiian Islands during the past week: a M2.9 earthquake 10 km (6 mi) ENE of Pāhala at 31 km (19 mi) depth on Feb. 17 at 4:26 p.m. HST and a M2.6 earthquake 10 km (6 mi) NE of Pāhala at 31 km (19 mi) depth on Feb. 16 at 4:28 p.m. HST.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar. See latest print edition at kaucalendar.com, in the mail and on stands.

FREE FOOD

St. Jude's Hot Meals are free to those in need on Saturdays from 9 a.m. until food runs out, no later than noon. Volunteers from the community are welcome to help and can contact Karen at pooch53@gmail.com. Location is 96-8606 Paradise Circle Drive in Ocean View. Those in need can also take hot showers from 9 a.m. to noon and use the computer lab from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Free Meals Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays are served from 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Nā'ālehu Hongwanji. Volunteers prepare the food provided by 'O Ka'ū Kākou with fresh produce from its gardens on the farm of Eva Liu, who supports the project. Other community members also make donations and approximately 150 meals are served each day, according to OKK President Wayne Kawachi.

OUTDOOR MARKETS
Volcano Evening Market, Cooper Center, Volcano Village, Thursdays, 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., with live music, artisan crafts, ono grinds, and fresh produce. See facebook.com.

Volcano Swap Meet, fourth Saturday of the month from 8 a.m. to noon. Large variety of vendors with numerous products. Tools, clothes, books, toys, local made healing extract and creams, antiques, jewelry, gemstones, crystals, food, music, plants, fruits, and vegetables. Also offered are cakes, coffee, and shave ice. Live music.


https://www.okaukakou.org/scholarships-for-local-students

Volcano Farmers Market, Cooper Center, Volcano Village on Sundays, 6 a.m. to 10 a.m., with local produce, baked goods, food to go, island beef and Ka'ū Coffee. EBT is used for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly Food Stamps. Call 808-967-7800.

O Ka'ū Kākou Market, Nā'ālehu, Wednesdays, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Contact Nadine Ebert at 808-938-5124 or June Domondon 808-938-4875. See facebook.com/OKauKakouMarket.

Ocean View Community Market, Saturdays and Wednesdays, 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., corner Kona Dr. Drive and Hwy 11, near Thai Grindz. Masks mandatory. 100-person limit, social distancing required. Gate unlocked for vendors at 5:30 a.m., $15 dollars, no rez needed. Parking in the upper lot. Vendors must provide their own sanitizer. Food vendor permits required. Carpooling is encouraged.

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