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Saturday, February 16, 2019

Kaʻū News Briefs, Saturday, February 16, 2019

Over 275 keiki participated in today's 11th annual OKK Fishing Tournament. See story below.
Photo by Geneveve Fyvie
BILLS TO FUND THE CARDIAC CATH LAB at Hilo Medical Center will be heard next week in their respective finance committees. Senate Bill 911 will be heard Tuesday, Feb. 19 at 9:30 a.m. House Bill 527 will be heard on Wednesday, Feb. 20 at 2 p.m.
     Submit testimony, due 24 hours before each hearing, online via the Hawaii State Legislature website: click on the "Submit Testimony" button, enter the bill name, upload testimony or copy and paste in the text box. Submit testimony for SB911 to the Senate Ways & Means Committee at WAMtestimony@capitol.hawaii.gov. Submit testimony for HB527 to the House Finance Committee at FINtestimony@capitol.hawaii.gov.
     Questions? Contact Elena Cabatu, Director of Legislative Affairs at Hilo Medical Center at 808-333-7223 or ecabatu@hhsc.org. See video, "Improving Cardiac Care at Hilo Medical Center."
     The hospital provided this sample testimony: "This funding supports Hilo Medical Center's efforts to provide interventional cardiac care for East Hawaiʻi and potentially for all of Hawaiʻi Island. The procedure involved in this advanced level of cardiac care stops heart attacks in progress and reduces long term cardiac disability. The American College of Cardiology recommends interventional cardiac care as a best practice for treating heart attacks in rural areas like Hawaiʻi Island.  
     "Hilo Medical Center is well positioned to provide interventional cardiac care as it already has available cardiac imaging equipment and software, as well as a cardiology clinic that has space for three cardiologists. The hospital's cardiology program is on track to meeting its goal by the end of 2019 to provide interventional cardiology that will save lives and improve the quality of life for cardiac patients. The funding received in the 2018 legislative session was very much appreciated as it was crucial in the hospital's success in recruiting interventional cardiologists. Funding in this second phase is essential for Hilo Medical Center to continue the momentum in advancing heart attack care."

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OKK members, in blue, hand out hand poles. Photo by Geneveve Fyvie
TODAY'S 11th ANNUAL KEIKI FISHING TOURNAMENT brought hundreds to Punaluʻu's shores to fish, eat, and enjoy the beautiful day. Dolphins jumped and humpback whales cruised in waters offshore. 
     The tournament was strictly catch and release. Keiki fished with barbless hooks and hand poles. Organizer ʻO Kaʻū Kākou provided hooks, lines, poles, shrimp bait, and buckets. Over 275 keiki, ages one to 14, participated. Keiki ages under age four caught floating plastic ducks with small magnetic fishing rods in a small portable pool.
     Lunch was free: chili, rice, hot dogs, brownies, water, and shave ice. Prizes for all registered participants were given. In addition, prizes were awarded to the top three largest catch in each of five categories: Largest Kupipi, Largest Po‘opa‘a, Largest Hinalea, Largest Aholehole, and Most Caught. See tomorrow's Kaʻū News Briefs for winners. There was also a raffle drawing which included fishing poles, gift cards, mini drones, and electric scooter prizes. Live music was provided by Ernest Kalani Jr.
Young keiki, fishing for ducks. Photo by Geneveve Fyvie
     Booths at the event included PARENTS, Inc., Department of Land & Natural Resources, Barbless Circle Hooks Project, UH Hilo's project providing free Play Yards for Keiki, and United Health Care Community Plan. American Red Cross had information on installing fire alarms in all household bedrooms, by appointment; call their Hilo office at (808) 935-8305.

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.

OKK President Wayne Kawachi speaks to the crowd at today's 11th
annual Keiki Fishing Tournament. Photo by Geneveve Fyvie
THE TWO PERCENT LAND FUND is further challenged according to Debbie Hecht, who campaigned to successfully establish the Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources fund in 2006, to use two percent of property taxes to conserve special lands.
     Hecht issued an editorial this week saying salaries and benefits for managing the fund, should too many people be hired or their role expand beyond the 2 Percent fund duties,  could "gut the two percent land fund." She says a "seemingly innocuous amendment submitted at the last minute by the (Mayor Harry) Kim administration via Charter Commissioner Kevin Hopkins" would pay staff wages and benefits from the money available for acquisition. "This would deplete the land fund, not strengthen it."
     Hecht says she supports funding one staff member. She noted there is $19 million stockpiled and almost $3 million in the Maintenance Fund, though "there is no dedicated staff to work on acquiring properties, finding matching funds, and helping the non-profits that are the 'boots on the ground' to get funding. There is not a staff person dedicated to work only on the two percent Land Fund program."
A man hangs loose as he watches keiki fishing. Photo by Geneveve Fyvie
     She says she supports Charter Amendment 9, asking for one dedicated administrator of the fund. The administrator would be employed under the department of finance. Duties would include, but not be limited to: assisting the public with applications for acquisition; assisting the public access, open space and natural resources preservation commission with its prioritization of properties to be acquired; negotiation and acquisition of eligible properties; seeking and acquiring matching funds; and managing the maintenance of lands acquired by this fund, by overseeing and implementing the provisions of Section 10-16 of the charter.
Hand poles for the keiki were provided by OKK. Photo by Gabe Cuevas
     The proposal from the Kim administration, she says, proposes to "pay for the salary, wages and benefits of staff dedicated to advancing the Activities contained within this section and Section 10-16 of this charter." However, she has concerns. "How many staff member's salaries, wages and benefits is the Kim Administration talking about deducting from the Land Fund?  The word 'staff' is ambiguous… this is a back door way to take money from the fund."
     Hecht is also concerned that staff could be pulled to other duties in case of emergencies. "There are important contractual deadlines on real estate deals for land. What if there is a closing deadline or a due diligence deadline and the staff person is pulled off for other duties? What if a willing seller needs to close within a certain amount of time? Does the head of Public Works stop all their work to go help in an emergency? No, they keep their workers on task to keep the business of the county going. The County has only purchased 14 properties in 13 years. More than 160 have been proposed. There is much work to do.
On shore, in the ocean, or perched on rocks, keiki fished today at Punaluʻu,
catch and release, to win prizes and awards. Photo by Geneveve Fyvie
     "This does not get one staff person dedicated to administering only the two percent land Fund, which is what we are asking for. There is already a paid staff person provided for in the Hawaiʻi County Code to assist the Commission. This depletes the monies, which are needed to obtain matching funds, and money for acquisition with no guarantee that they will work on the two percent Land Fund Program.
     "The two percent Land Fund is a very important, voter-mandated program and should be treated accordingly, not to pull people off to relocate cattle or do inventories for Public Works. That is why the money is not being spent on land acquisitions or stewardship grants."
      Hecht suggests the community attend public meetings – in Nāʻālehu on Friday, March 29 at 6 p.m. – and the Charter Commission meetings at 11 a.m. on Friday, March 8 and Friday, April 12. "Please attend in your area and take your friends and neighbors. We have to start educating people for the two percent Land Fund Campaign. The Commissioners are saying over and over they want to hear from the public. You can also send an email to the Charter Commission and tell them your thoughts: Charter.commission@hawaiicounty.gov."
OKK organized the fishing event. Photo by Gabe Cuevas
     Learn more about the two percent Land Fund Program at debbiehecht.com/2019/01/15/2-land-fund-program-at-the-charter-commission-as-of-january-142019/, or contact Hecht at hecht.deb@gmail.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.

PROPOSED NĀʻĀLEHU WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT talk story meeting happens Tuesday, Feb. 26, 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Nāʻālehu Community Center, 75-5635 Mamalahoa Hwy. County of Hawaiʻi Department of Environmental Management invites all Nāʻālehu residents to the meeting, during which they will update the community on progress and changes that have been made to the project, outline the next steps of the environmental review process, and invite the public to share thoughts and ideas.
     RSVP to Brena Cabacungan Senelly of Earthplan at eplan1@aol.com, Mary Fujio of DEM at 808-961-8030, or Iris Cober or Brown and Caldwell Maui office at 808-442-3300.

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THREE $2,000 AND TWO $1,000 SCHOLARSHIPS are available from American Association of University Women-Kona. The association gives three $2000 scholarships annually to female college-bound Kaʻū High School, home schooled, and West Hawaiʻi high school students Application packets were sent to high school counselors and are available through Palamanui counselors or on the AAUW Kona website at kona-hi.aauw.net. Criteria for choosing recipients are: academic achievement; community involvement; activities and experience; and financial need. Applications must be postmarked by Monday, April 1.
     This year, the association added two $1,000 scholarships, for any female high school graduate or woman returning to school from home or workplace who is attending a two-year vocational program leading to a marketable skill at Palamanui Campus, 73-4225 Ane Keohokalole Hwy, Kona. Application packets were sent to high school counselors and are available through Palamanui counselors or on the AAUW Kona website at kona-hi.aauw.net and must be postmarked by Wednesday, April 10.
      AAUW promotes equity for women and girls through advocacy, education, philanthropy, and research. Contact sharonnind@aol.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.

KAUAHAʻAO CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH FUNDRAISING BAZAAR happens Saturday, March 16 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The church is located on the corner of Mamalahoa Hwy, Kamaoa Road, and Pinao Street, just above the Wong Yuen Store in Waiʻōhinu.
     Individuals, schools, clubs, and sports/athletic groups are invited to be vendors at the "flea market" that will be located on the church lawn. The charge for a 10' X 10' space is $10. Vendors are responsible for bringing their own tent, table and chairs, and if power is needed, generator. Vendors can sell anything except hot foods or plate lunches.  
     Vendors must fill out and submit a Vendor Application with the $10 fee by Sunday, March 10. Call Debbie at 928-8039 for the application.
     The Church members will sell kalua pig and cabbage bowls and roast chicken with gravy bowls, as well as baked goods, produce, and crafts.
     For more information call Walter or Debbie at 928-8039.  

 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.

Print edition of The Kaʻū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes 
throughout Kaʻū, from Miloliʻi through Volcano, and free on 
stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com
Kaʻū High Winter Sports Schedule
Boys Basketball:
Feb. 21-23, Thu.-Sat., HHSAA
Wrestling:
Feb. 20-21, Wed.-Thu., HHSAA

NEW and UPCOMING
ST. JUDE'S MARDI GRAS DINNER FUNDRAISER happens Friday, March 8 at the church, 92-8660 Paradise Circle, Ocean View. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., dinner is served from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tickets are $8 per person, $15 per couple, and $20 per family, for jambalaya, red beans and rice, cornbread, drink, and dessert. Pre-purchase tickets during Aloha potluck, after service on Sundays, or from Thom White, Beverly Nelson, or Cordelia Burt. Questions? Call 808-939-7555 and leave a message.

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.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 17
Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund Community Cleanup, Sun., Feb. 17, contact in advance for meet up details. Space may be available; BYO-4WD welcome. Free; donations appreciated. RSVP to kahakai.cleanups@gmail.com or 769-7629.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 18
Discovery Harbour Neighborhood Watch Mtg., Mon., Jan. 18, 5-6:30pm, Discovery Harbour Community Hall. 929-9576, discoveryharbour.net

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 19
Hawai‘i County Council Mtgs., Tue., Jan. 19, Committees; Wed., Jan. 20, Council, Kona. Ka‘ū residents can participate via videoconferencing at Nā‘ālehu State Office Building. Agendas at hawaiicounty.gov.

Discovery Harbour Volunteer Fire Dept. Mtg., Tue., Jan. 19, 4:30-6:30pm, Discovery Harbour Community Hall. 929-9576, discoveryharbour.net

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 20
Ocean View Community Association Board of Directors Mtg., Wed., Feb. 20, 12:30-1:30pm, Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Arts & Crafts Activity: Eagle Handprint, Wed., Feb. 20, 3:30-5pm, multi-purpose room, Ka‘ū District Gym. Register keiki ages 5-12 Feb. 11-19. Free. 928-3102, hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 21
Hawai‘i Disability Legal Services, Thu., Feb. 21, 9-noon, Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Family Reading Night, Thu., Feb. 21, 6-7pm, Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Paint Nite II, Thu., Feb. 21, 6-8pm, multi-purpose room, Ka‘ū District Gym, Pāhala. Open to adults. Register through Feb. 20. Supply fee. 928-3102, hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 23
Count Humpback Whales - Sanctuary Ocean Count, Sat., Feb. 23, 8-noon, Ka‘ū Coast locations: Punalu‘u Black Sand Beach Park and Ka Lae Park. Participants tally humpback whale sightings and document whale surface behavior during survey, providing valuable data to NOAA. Register at oceancount.org. Registration closes one week prior to event. Last 2019 count is on March 30.

ONGOING
Panaʻewa Stampede takes place through Monday, Feb. 18 with rodeo competitors from Kaʻū and around the island joined by rodeo clowns and other entertainers. HawaiiRodeoStampede.com

Hui Mālama Ola Nā ʻŌiwi classes offered in Ka‘ū include: Expanded Food and Nutrition Program (EFNEP) on Wednesdays through Feb. 20. See more at hmono.org; Diabetes Management Classes on Mondays in February. Sign up by calling 969-9220 or online at hmono.org/classes.

 Miss Kaʻū Coffee Pageant will accept applicants through Feb. 28. The pageant will be held again at the Ka‘ū District Gym on Saturday, April 27, 6 p.m. Miss Kaʻū Coffee and her court will represent the Kaʻū Coffee industry throughout the year at events in the community and beyond, her appearances sponsored by the Edmund C. Olson Trust, II. Pageant Director is Trinidad Marques. Scholarship Committee Directors are Julia Neal and Gloria Camba.
     The community can support the pageant through purchasing tickets, volunteering, and providing scholarships.
     Girls three to 24 years of age are encouraged to enter the pageant. Talents often include hula and singing. Competitive categories include Talent, Gown, Photogenic, Career-Interview, Characters Outfit, and Swimsuit for Miss Kaʻū Coffee. Pageant hopefuls contend for titles of Miss Ka‘ū Coffee, Jr. Miss Kaʻū Coffee, Miss Kaʻū Peaberry, and Miss Kaʻū Coffee Flower.
      Email tmarques@yahoo.com.

Volunteer on Midway Atoll for Six Months. The volunteer will serve as a communication assistant out on Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge, on or about March 12 through August. Applications are due by Feb. 28. Potential to be extended to a full year. Get more info and instructions on how to apply.

Nāʻālehu Celebrates Craft Month with open crafting for all ages, while supplies last. Crafting starts off at 3 p.m. each Thursday in February. Free. Contact Sara Kamibayashi at (808) 939-2442 for more.

Applications for a Job to Help Kids with Healthy Eating and Living in Kaʻū are open through March 15. The position, through FoodCorps, is a full-time 11.5-month commitment from August 1, 2019 through July 15, 2020, at Pāhala Elementary School.
     In exchange for service, members receive: $22,000 living stipend paid bi-weekly over the 11.5-month term; $6,095 AmeriCorps Segal education award upon successful completion of service; Student loan deferral or forbearance, if eligible; partial childcare reimbursement, if eligible; Health insurance; Ongoing training; mentorship; and professional development.
     Apply at foodcorps.org/apply. See the service member position description for more details. Visit foodcorps.org, Facebook page, or contact seri.niimi-burch@foodcorps.org for more information.

Niuhi-Shark Fine Art Exhibit is open daily through March 24 at Volcano Art Center Gallery. The public is invited to hear different perspectives on the life of Kamehameha the Great and experience a visual experience of important events in Kamehameha's life from the perspective of two styles of art. The exhibit and supporting events promise paint, prose, protocol, and conversations providing cultural, historical, and educational experiences, with original paintings by Carl F. K. Pao, paired with selections from the book Kamehameha–The Rise of a King by David Kāwika Eyre, with illustrations by Brook Parker. Visit volcanoartcenter.org for more information.

 Preschool Opens Doors Applications are open for the 2019-2020 school year. The Department of Human Services encourages families to apply before March 29. This program is for families seeking aid in paying for preschool.
     Applications, available at patchhawaii.org, received during this period will be considered for preschool participation during July 1, 2019 and June 30, 2020. For more information, visit bit.ly/2TolEOm or call 800-746-5620.

Kaʻū Coffee Fest invites non-profits, clubs, cooperatives, and businesses to sign up for booths to serve the public at the 11th annual Kaʻū Coffee Fest Hoʻolauleʻa on Saturday, May 4 at Pāhala Community Center. The all-day event comes with music, hula, coffee tasting, and meeting the famous Kaʻū Coffee farmers. See KauCoffeeFestival.com.
     Booth fees are $100 for food vendors; $60 for non-food items and crafts, including coffee and coffee samples; and $35 for pre-approved information displays. Campaign and other political displays are not invited. Fifty percent discounts are provided to bona fide non-profit organizations and cooperatives selling food, crafts, and coffee. Each vendor is responsible for a Department of Health permit, if serving food. Call Gail Nagata 933-0918. Vendors must also obtain county vendor permits costing $30 each, to be displayed at each booth.
     Apply by Friday, April 26. Application at KauCoffeeFestival.com. Email to biokepamoses@gmail.com; mail to Brenda Iokepa-Moses, P.O. Box 208, Pāhala, HI 96777; or call 808-731-5409.

Applications for a Paid Internship in Kaʻū for Kupu Hawai‘i and The Nature Conservancy are being accepted. The year-long, full-time position is in TNC's Hawai‘i Island Terrestrial Program, which stewards native forest preserves in Ka‘ū and South Kona. Benefits offered include: a $1,600 monthly living allowance, before taxes; a $5,920 education award towards higher education; health care and childcare benefit, if eligible; and receiving an entry-level conservation career experience.
     Application at kupuhawaii.org/conservation. For more, call The Nature Conservancy at 443-5401 or call Kupu Hawai‘i at 808-735-1221.

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Friday, February 15, 2019

Kaʻū News Briefs, Friday, February 15, 2019

Keiki fishing tournament and canned food drive, organized by ‘O Ka‘ū Kākou, happens tomorrow. 
See details, and video, below. Photo by Jana Kaniho
FEDERAL FUNDING INCREASES are on their way to Hawaiʻi, with approval of legislation passed by Congress yesterday and signed by Pres. Donald Trump last night. The approval averted another shutdown and funds the federal government through this fiscal year.
     Sen. Brian Schatz said, "The deal will give every federal worker a well-deserved raise and add new funding for federal programs that benefit Hawaiʻi. The increased funding for infrastructure and housing means Hawaiʻi can access more federal money to improve our roads and help more people find homes." The federal raise is 1.9 percent.
     Schatz pointed out the benefits to Hawaiʻi:
     $30.3 million for volcano research and monitoring. This includes $1.5 million for operations at high-threat volcanoes, over $4 million for next generation detection systems, and $4.8 million for interim office and laboratory space, equipment, and other needs due to the destruction of the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory and continuing volcanic activity at Kīlauea.
Funds from today's approved legislation will help fund a new Hawaiian Volcanoes Observatory location. USGS photos
     $4.4 million for tourism; $1 million for transportation. $3.4 million for Department of the Interior community and economic development accounts.
     $11.8 million more from the Highway Trust Fund to Hawaiʻi for highway maintenance and new construction of bridges, roads, and bike and pedestrian paths.
     $1 million to support construction of an insectary at U.S. Pacific Basin Agricultural Research Station in Hilo to study and combat invasive insects, including fruit flies, coffee berry borers, and felted macadamia nut coccids, that threaten local agriculture, and develop new ways for Hawaiʻi farmers to protect their crops.
     $1.9 million for USDA Pacific Basin Agricultural Research Center in Hilo for research and development of new strains of coffee for desirable traits like flavor or pest resistance.
     $2 million in grants to preserve Native languages and culture, and local history, through the National Endowment for the Humanities.
Lifecycle of Coffee Berry Borer. Funds from legislation
approved today will help with further research into
this invasive, damaging species. CTAHR photo
     $2 million in Native Hawaiian Housing Block Grants for Native Hawaiian families to obtain new homes, make renovations, build community facilities, and receive housing services, including counseling, financial literacy, and other resources to address housing disparities.
     $1.6 million for Native Hawaiian-Serving Institutions through the USDA supporting grants to higher education institutions with a significant number of Native Hawaiian students to educate and train the next generation of farmers and ranchers.
     $3.6 million in homelessness assistance through the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness, which works with partners in both the public and private sectors to improve federal spending outcomes for homelessness.
     $2.2 million increase in bus and transit funding, distributed to the state and counties for the operation and capital costs associated with public transit systems, including Hele On Bus and The Handi-Van fleet.
     $32.3 million to for federal agricultural inspectors at airports on Hawaiʻi Island, Kauaʻi, Maui, and Oʻahu.
     $16.7 million for the East-West Center.
     $5 million to for U.S. Coast Guard's C-130J hangar at Air Station Barbers Point to support search and rescue.

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Pres. Donald Trump
THE DECLARATION OF A NATIONAL EMERGENCY by Pres. Donald Trump to build a wall on the southern U.S. border drew a response this morning from Sen. Mazie Hirono. Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution, she said:
     "At today's announcement, Donald Trump lied about walls, borders, crime, and legal immigration to justify his declaration of a fake emergency at our southern border. With this desperate action, Donald Trump is putting his vanity wall above the Constitution and the American people. As usual, his announcement was long on lies and short on justification.
     "Let's call today's action what it is: a blatant, illegal power grab that steals money from our military to advance Donald Trump's personal agenda. Diverting billions of dollars from planned investments in critical military projects across the world doesn't make us safer. The President has demonstrated time and again that he doesn't care that the chaos he creates results in wasted time and resources being expended to clean up his mess – including those spent on court challenges.
Sen. Mazie Hirono
     "Republicans need to say enough is enough and join us in acting like a separate branch of government by terminating this so-called emergency declaration as soon as possible, and focusing instead on the real needs of all Americans."

PRES. DONALD TRUMP CALLS SEN. MAZIE HIRONO "CRAZY." Hirono had choice words for the president yesterday:
     "Never before have I been attacked by a sitting president and his son, but there's a first time for everything, and these are not normal times."
     Hirono states Donald Trump, Jr. "used his father's tactics and attacked me on Twitter" last week. "On Monday night, President Trump himself called me 'crazy' at his El Paso campaign rally, a political stunt to drum up support for his vanity wall project that he still won't drop. So why'd he call me 'crazy?' Because of my support to act on climate change and bring our country into a clean energy future through the Green New Deal."
     Hirono wrote, "As usual, he didn't know what he was talking about. He can call me any name he wants, and make up whatever 'facts' he wants, as he continues to stick his head in the sand. I won't stop working to protect our communities, our environment, and our economy from the very real, very present, and very dangerous impacts of climate change. While he worries about building his vanity wall, I'm fighting for real solutions to real problems."

Crafts after story time, with Auntie Linda of  Tūtū & Me, monthly on the
second Thursday at Nāʻālehu Public LIbrary. Photo by Geneveve Fyvie
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.

STORIES AND CRAFT TIME ARE OFFERED TO KEIKI at Story Time with Auntie Linda. Recommended for toddlers through pre-K, the program is monthly on the second Thursday morning at Nā‘ālehu Public Library, 10:30 a.m. to noon. Next meet up is March 14.
     Auntie Linda of Tūtū and Me reads to keiki, then crafts inspired by the chosen book are available. The program is free and open to everyone.

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.

VACANCIES ARE OPEN on Boards and Commissions for County of Hawaiʻi. Members of most Boards and Commissions serve for staggered terms of five years, on a voluntary basis. The following vacancies are open to Kaʻū residents for consideration: Fire Commission, Council District 6; and Ka‘ū nine positions on the Community Development Plan Action Committee.
     Other positions available for the entire county include: Merit Appeals Board, two positions; Board of Ethics, one position; Cultural Resource Commission, three positions; Fire Board of Appeals, five positions from any Council District; and Windward Planning Commission, two positions.
     For all Boards and Commission, travel expenses to and from meetings are reimbursed.
     Applicants must be U.S. citizens, residents of the State of Hawaiʻi, and may not hold any other public office. The Mayor's Office will fill vacancies on Boards and Commissions from a list of applicants. Application forms are available at hawaiicounty.gov/office-of-the-mayor. For further information, contact Rose Bautista, Executive Assistant to the Mayor, at 961-8211 or at rose.bautista@hawaiicounty.gov.
Print edition of The Kaʻū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes 
throughout Kaʻū, from Miloliʻi through Volcano, and free on 
stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com
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.

Kaʻū High Winter Sports Schedule
Boys Basketball:
Feb. 21-23, Thu.-Sat., HHSAA
Wrestling:
Feb. 20-21, Wed.-Thu., HHSAA

 Trojans Boys Volleyball Fundraising INvitational Tournament, to help the team fly to Maui for a preseason tournament, happens tonight at Kaʻū District Gym. Trojans host Kamehameha teams from Oʻahu and Hawaiʻi Island, and Kealakeke and Pāhoa High Schools.
     Donations can be sent to Kaʻū High School, c/o Athletic Director Kalei Namohala 96-3150 Pikake St, Pāhala, HI, 96777, with the notation "Boys Volleyball Tournament on Maui."
Panaʻewa Stampede is this weekend, just outside of Hilo, Saturday through Monday, with rodeo competitors from Kaʻū and around the island joined by rodeo clowns and other entertainers.
     See HawaiiRodeoStampede.com.


 11th Annual Keiki Fishing Tournament, Sat., Feb. 16, 9-2pm, Punalu‘u Beach Park Pavilions. For keiki 1-14 years. Free. Event day registration open 8-9am. Pre-registration packets available at Nā‘ālehu Ace Hardware, Mizuno Supertte, Pāhala Gas Station, Nā‘ālehu Wiki Wiki Mart, Kahuku Country Market, and Ocean View Auto Parts. Free lunch and prizes. Guy Enriques, 217-2253, Wayne Kawachi, 937-4773. okaukakou.org
      See footage of Punaluʻu on Friday when OKK set up for the annual event that draws up to 1,000people. Video by Gabriel Cuevas


NEW and UPCOMING
NIUHI-SHARK FINE ART EXHIBIT opens tomorrow at Volcano Art Center Gallery in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, with a reception from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. The exhibit is open daily through March 24.
     The public is invited to hear different perspectives on the life of Kamehameha the Great. The collection provides viewers a visual experience of important events in Kamehameha's life from the perspective of two styles of art. The exhibit and supporting events promise paint, prose, protocol, and conversations providing cultural, historical, and educational experiences, with original paintings by Carl F. K. Pao, paired with selections from the book Kamehameha–The Rise of a King by David Kāwika Eyre, with illustrations by Brook Parker.
     Eyre will sign copies of his book Sunday, Feb. 17, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Art Center Gallery.
     A Volcano Art Center statement says, "Hawaiʻi Island is not only the place of Kamehameha's birth, it is also the beautiful and dramatic setting of much of his life's story, the source of his power, the home of his final days, and the hidden place of his bundled bones."
     Visit volcanoartcenter.org for more information.

Catch up with ʻAlalā living in the wild Thursday, 
Feb. 21, at Volcano Art Center. Photo from VAC
RETURN TO THE WILD, ONE YEAR LATER: An Update on the Reintroduction Efforts of ʻAlalā. Thursday Night at the Center on Feb. 21 at 6:30 p.m. presents an update on the reintroduction efforts of the ʻAlalā. Through intensive conservation efforts, 11 ʻAlalā, the endemic and endangered Hawaiian crow, have survived in native Hawaiian forests for over a year and have been joined by another 10.
     Rachel Kingsley, the Education and Outreach Associate for The ʻAlalā Project, will provide information about this unique species, an update on the birds that have been reintroduced, and plans for future reintroduction efforts of the ʻAlalā.
     Learn more about this highly intelligent and unique crow species, integral to native Hawaiian ecosystems and culture.
    The event is free, although a $5 donation to Volcano Art Center is greatly appreciated. The event is part of a once-a-month Thursday night series at Volcano Art Center, focusing on art, Hawaiian culture and our environment. The series is intended to inspire and enhance appreciation of art and life experience, while fostering community connections. For more, call VAC at (808) 967-8222 or visit volcanoartcenter.org.

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 16
Ocean View C.E.R.T. Mtg., Sat., Feb. 16, 10-1pm, Ocean View Community Center. Community Emergency Response Team monthly meeting and training. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Hula Kahiko - Kumu Hula Keala Ching w/Nā Wai Iwi Ola, Sat., Feb. 16, 10:30-11:30am, performance at hula platform near Volcano Art Center Gallery. Free; park entrance fees apply. 967-8222, volcanohula@gmail.com,
volcanoartcenter.org

Nā Mea Hula w/Wes Awana, Sat., Feb. 16, 11-1pm, Volcano Art Center Gallery porch. Hands-on cultural demonstration. Free; park entrance fees apply. 967-8222, volcanohula@gmail.com,
volcanoartcenter.org

Ham Radio Mtg., Sat., Feb. 16, 2-3pm, Ocean View Community Center. ovcahi.org

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 17
Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund Community Cleanup, Sun., Feb. 17, contact in advance for meet up details. Space may be available; BYO-4WD welcome. Free; donations appreciated. RSVP to kahakai.cleanups@gmail.com or 769-7629.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 18
Discovery Harbour Neighborhood Watch Mtg., Mon., Jan. 18, 5-6:30pm, Discovery Harbour Community Hall. 929-9576, discoveryharbour.net

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 19
Hawai‘i County Council Mtgs., Tue., Jan. 19, Committees; Wed., Jan. 20, Council, Kona. Ka‘ū residents can participate via videoconferencing at Nā‘ālehu State Office Building. Agendas at hawaiicounty.gov.

Discovery Harbour Volunteer Fire Dept. Mtg., Tue., Jan. 19, 4:30-6:30pm, Discovery Harbour Community Hall. 929-9576, discoveryharbour.net

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 20
Ocean View Community Association Board of Directors Mtg., Wed., Feb. 20, 12:30-1:30pm, Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Arts & Crafts Activity: Eagle Handprint, Wed., Feb. 20, 3:30-5pm, multi-purpose room, Ka‘ū District Gym. Register keiki ages 5-12 Feb. 11-19. Free. 928-3102, hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 21
Hawai‘i Disability Legal Services, Thu., Feb. 21, 9-noon, Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Family Reading Night, Thu., Feb. 21, 6-7pm, Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Paint Nite II, Thu., Feb. 21, 6-8pm, multi-purpose room, Ka‘ū District Gym, Pāhala. Open to adults. Register through Feb. 20. Supply fee. 928-3102, hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation

ONGOING
Nāʻālehu Celebrates Craft Month with open crafting for all ages, while supplies last. Crafting starts off at 3 p.m. each Thursday in February. Free. Contact Sara Kamibayashi at (808) 939-2442 for more.

Panaʻewa Stampede takes place this weekend, just outside of Hilo, Feb. 16-18, Saturday through Monday, with rodeo competitors from Kaʻū and around the island joined by rodeo clowns and other entertainers. See HawaiiRodeoStampede.com.

Hui Mālama Ola Nā ʻŌiwi classes offered in Ka‘ū include: Expanded Food and Nutrition Program (EFNEP) on Wednesdays through Feb. 19. See more at hmono.org; Diabetes Management Classes on Mondays in February. Sign up by calling 969-9220 or online at hmono.org/classes.

 Miss Kaʻū Coffee Pageant will accept applicants through Feb. 28. The pageant will be held again at the Ka‘ū District Gym on Saturday, April 27, 6 p.m. Miss Kaʻū Coffee and her court will represent the Kaʻū Coffee industry throughout the year at events in the community and beyond, her appearances sponsored by the Edmund C. Olson Trust, II. Pageant Director is Trinidad Marques. Scholarship Committee Directors are Julia Neal and Gloria Camba.
     The community can support the pageant through purchasing tickets, volunteering, and providing scholarships.
     Girls three to 24 years of age are encouraged to enter the pageant. Talents often include hula and singing. Competitive categories include Talent, Gown, Photogenic, Career-Interview, Characters Outfit, and Swimsuit for Miss Kaʻū Coffee. Pageant hopefuls contend for titles of Miss Ka‘ū Coffee, Jr. Miss Kaʻū Coffee, Miss Kaʻū Peaberry, and Miss Kaʻū Coffee Flower.
      Email tmarques@yahoo.com.

Volunteer on Midway Atoll for Six Months. The volunteer will serve as a communication assistant out on Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge, on or about March 12 through August. Applications are due by Feb. 28. Potential to be extended to a full year. Get more info and instructions on how to apply.

 Applications for a Job to Help Kids with Healthy Eating and Living in Kaʻū are open through March 15. The position, through FoodCorps, is a full-time 11.5-month commitment from August 1, 2019 through July 15, 2020, at Pāhala Elementary School.
     In exchange for service, members receive: $22,000 living stipend paid bi-weekly over the 11.5-month term; $6,095 AmeriCorps Segal education award upon successful completion of service; Student loan deferral or forbearance, if eligible; partial childcare reimbursement, if eligible; Health insurance; Ongoing training, mentorship, and professional development.
     Apply at foodcorps.org/apply. See the service member position description for more details. Visit foodcorps.org, Facebook page, or contact seri.niimi-burch@foodcorps.org for more information.

 Preschool Opens Doors Applications are open for the 2019-2020 school year. The Department of Human Services encourages families to apply before March 29. This program is for families seeking aid in paying for preschool. Applications, available at patchhawaii.org, received during this period will be considered for preschool participation during July 1, 2019 and June 30, 2020. For more information, visit bit.ly/2TolEOm or call 800-746-5620.

Kaʻū Coffee Fest invites non-profits, clubs, cooperatives, and businesses to sign up for booths to serve the public at the 11th annual Kaʻū Coffee Fest Hoʻolauleʻa on Saturday, May 4 at Pāhala Community Center. The all-day event comes with music, hula, coffee tasting, and meeting the famous Kaʻū Coffee farmers. See KauCoffeeFestival.com.
     Booth fees are $100 for food vendors; $60 for non-food items and crafts, including coffee and coffee samples; and $35 for pre-approved information displays. Campaign and other political displays are not invited. Fifty percent discounts are provided to bona fide non-profit organizations and cooperatives selling food, crafts, and coffee. Each vendor is responsible for a Department of Health permit, if serving food. Call Gail Nagata 933-0918. Vendors must also obtain county vendor permits costing $30 each, to be displayed at each booth.
     Apply by Friday, April 26. Application at KauCoffeeFestival.com. Email to biokepamoses@gmail.com; mail to Brenda Iokepa-Moses, P.O. Box 208, Pāhala, HI 96777; or call 808-731-5409.

Applications for a Paid Internship in Kaʻū for Kupu Hawai‘i and The Nature Conservancy are being accepted. The year-long, full-time position is in TNC's Hawai‘i Island Terrestrial Program, which stewards native forest preserves in Ka‘ū and South Kona. Benefits offered include: a $1,600 monthly living allowance, before taxes; a $5,920 education award towards higher education; health care and childcare benefit, if eligible; and receiving an entry-level conservation career experience.
     Application at kupuhawaii.org/conservation. For more, call The Nature Conservancy at 443-5401 or call Kupu Hawai‘i at 808-735-1221.

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