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Monday, April 08, 2019

Kaʻū News Briefs, Monday, April 8, 2019

The Hoola One engineering team from University of Sherbrooke in Quebec tests their new invention to remove micro-
plastics from beaches along the Kaʻū Coast this month. Photo from Hoola One Facebook

TESTING A NEW INVENTION, THE HOOLA ONE MACHINE, TO HELP REMOVE MICROPLASTICS FROM BEACHES, is scheduled in Kaʻū from April 17 through 30. The project is a partnership between the school of engineering at University of Sherbrooke in Quebec, Canada and Hawaiʻi Wildlife Fund.
     Microplastic debris is the most difficult to collect and remove from the beach because it takes so much time, said Bill Gilmartin, Hawaiʻi Wildlife Fund's Research Director. He explained that Hoola One is designed to separate very small microplastic pieces - up to two inches in diameter - from beach sand. Hawaiʻi Wildlife Fund will assist with field tests at Kamilo Beach.
     The students raised over $70,000 in Canadian dollars to design and build Hoola One. Hawaiʻi Wildlife Fund launched a fundraiser for $15,000 to bring the machine and students to Hawaiʻi. Pāhala Plantation Cottages will provide their housing.
          A statement from Hawaiʻi Wildlife Fund says that "Thanks to funding support from the Will J. Reid Foundation and many individual donors on our FB and online campaign, HWF raised enough money to cover the shipping. The device left Quebec in mid-Feb and arrived in Honolulu on Mar 13th, where it cleared customs" and was shipped to Hilo.
     Another HWF statement said that student work can lead to "future models to clean beaches around the world to reduce wildlife losses to plastic ingestion."
     Hawaiʻi Wildlife Fund also suggests helping by choosing to reduce the amount of single-use plastic items consumed and disposed of of daily. More info a is available at wildhawaii.org. More information and a video of the Sherbrooke effort are available at hoolaone.ageg.ca and facebook.com/ProjetHoolaOne.

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SLIGHT MAUNA LOA ACTIVITY UPTICK has U.S. Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcanoes Observatory scientists keeping a closer eye on the big volcano where most of Kaʻū rests. No significant changes were recorded  in Mauna Loa in March, but small earthquakes – mostly less than M2.0 – continued in the long-active east and northwest flanks and summit region. Mauna Loa last erupted 35 years ago, in 1984.
USGS HVO Scientist-in-Charge Tina Neal. USGS photo
     Tina Neal, Scientist-in-Charge at USGS HVO told Sherry Bracken, during a recent Island Issues radio interview, "When I arrived in 2015, right off the bat I intended to focus a lot of my energy on preparing for a potential eruption at Mauna Loa, because it was showing signs of unrest. We were seeing elevated counts of earthquakes, and steady rates of deformation, indicating accumulation of magma in the shallow reservoirs beneath the summit."
     In retrospect, she explained that "Mauna Loa experienced a spurt of unrest from about 2015 into 2017, and then it really began to slow down. For some time there, we were – of course – much more focused on Kīlauea," which violently erupted last year.
     Said Neal, "Just within the last three or four months, I would say we've seen a return to inflation and slightly elevated earthquake counts at Mauna Loa. So the lull or the quieting we saw in early 2018 has ended, and we're now looking at a slight uptick in activity.
     "This began to calm down, actually, in the summer of 2018, and we downgraded the volcano from – then the alert level was ADVISORY back to NORMAL.
     "The bottom line is that we are still watching Mauna Loa very carefully and it could well be moving towards a period of increased concern, but we have yet to raise the alert level from its lowest, quiet state to the next step up. We would need to see this pattern continue for a little while longer and then maybe have some different characteristics.
Deformation data for Mauna Loa over the past five years shows a steady increase in activity. USGS image 
     "Mauna Loa is not imminently going to erupt, but we are watching it closely." Neal said, "there is some suggestion – geologically, looking back – that during periods of Kīlauea quiet, Mauna Loa is more active and vice-versa. So, now that we're in a period of pause of activity at Kīlauea, one could suppose that this might be at a time of enhanced possibility of eruption at Mauna Loa. So that factors into our vigilance."
     The largest earthquake for Mauna Loa in the past month was a M3.3 event, at a depth of approximately 2.7 km (1.7 mi) below ground level, near the summit on March 31. USGS received no felt-reports following this event. Data from Global Positioning System instruments on Mauna Loa indicate slow inflation of the summit magma reservoir system. The rates of deformation are lower than during the period of more intense unrest from 2014-2017. Gas and temperature data from a station on the Southwest Rift Zone and within the summit caldera showed no significant changes over the past month.
    HVO continues to monitor the volcano closely and will issue another update in one month, or earlier should conditions change significantly.

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THE NUMBER OF HOMES & CONDOS SOLD ON HAWAIʻI ISLAND IN MARCH dropped by double digits, according to a report today in Pacific Business News. Two-hundred and five sold in March, compared to 250 sold in March 2018, before the volcanic disaster that wiped out 750 houses and sent the visitor count tumbling.Median price for a house was slightly higher, $382,500 in 2018 and $283,880 this March.
     The number of condominiums sold in March dropped 16.47 percent to 71 units. Eighty-five sold during March last year. Median price of condos sold in March was $375,000, a drop of 8.54 percent from $410,000 last March. Statistics for the PBN story came from Hawaii Information Service on behalf of Hawaiʻi Island Realtors.

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Former Dept. of Homeland Security
Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen
Photo from Wikipedia
RESIGNATION OF DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY SECRETARY Kirstjen Nielsen sparked a response from Sen. Mazie Hirono, who says Nielson "was complicit in the zero-tolerance policy of separating children from their families at the border." Hirono had suggested that Nielsen resign.
     "Now, more than a year later and thousands of families separated with thousands more locked in cages and kept in unconscionable conditions in detention centers, Nielsen has resigned, and I welcome her decision. History will not judge her kindly.
     "Sadly, new reports are saying Nielsen resigned because -- believe it or not -- she wasn't extreme enough for Trump. We know the president will only nominate yet another cabinet member who will easily bend to his will and be complicit in the horrendous treatment of families and individuals simply seeking an opportunity for a better life in the United States.
     "In this moment, we must continue to speak out in defense of immigrants and in opposition to the cruel and inhumane policies that we know are still to come from this right-wing administration… send a message to Trump that we will not stop fighting his anti-immigrant agenda," said Hirono.

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 Trojans Spring Sports Schedule
Baseball:
Sat., April 13, 3 p.m., @Kamehameha
Fri., April 19, BIIF Semi-Finals
Sat., April 20, BIIF Semi-Finals
Fri., April 26, BIIF Finals
Sat., April 27, BIIF Finals
Wed.-Sat., May 8-11, HHSAA
Softball:
Fri., April 12, BIIF Semi-Finals
Sat., April 13, BIIF Semi-Finals
Fri., April 19, BIIF Finals
Sat., April 20, BIIF Finals
Wed., May 1-4, HHSAA
Boys Volleyball:
Tue., April 9, 6 p.m., host Waiakea
Fri., April 12, 6 p.m., @Keaʻau
Wed., April 17, 6 p.m., Kamehameha
Fri., April 19, 6 p.m., host Honokaʻa
Mon. April 22, BIIF First Round
Wed., April 24, BIIF Semi-Finals
Thu., April 25, BIIF Finals
Thu.-Sat., May 2-4, HHSAA
Track:
Sat., April 13, 9 a.m., @HPA
Sat., April 20, 9 a.m., @Kamehameha
Fri., April 26, 2 p.m., BIIF Semi-Finals
Sat., April 27, 3 p.m., BIIF Finals
Fri.-Sat., May 3-4, HHSAA

JUST ANNOUNCED
THE AMAZING, ALMOST UNBELIEVABLE, STORY OF THE COCONUT PALM, an After Dark in the Park event, happens Tuesday, April 16, 7 p.m. at Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium. John Stallman of the Friends Institute of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes, guides attendees on the epic journey of the modern palm, what has been called, "the most useful tree on Earth." Free; park entrance fees apply. 985-6011, nps.gov/havo

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UPCOMING
TUESDAY, APRIL 9
Free Vision Screenings, Tuesday, April 9, Nāʻālehu Elementary. Students receive free comprehensive eye exam and sunglasses. If given a prescription, keiki will receive free eyeglasses with choice of frames, with parental consent. Mission co-sponsored by Tūtū & Me and Project Vision Hawaiʻi. pidf.org/programs/tutu_and_me, projectvisionhawaii.org, 808-430-0388

Hawai‘i County Council Mtgs., Tuesday, April 9 (Committees), Wednesday, April 10, (Council), Hilo. Ka‘ū residents can participate via videoconferencing at Nā‘ālehu State Office Building. Agendas at hawaiicounty.gov.

C.E.R.T. Discovery Harbour/Nā‘ālehu, Tuesday, April 9, 4 p.m – 6 p.m., Discovery Harbour Community Hall. Community Emergency Response Team info and training scenarios. Public welcome. Dina Shisler, dinashisler24@yahoo.com, 410-935-8087

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 10
Scholarship Application Deadline for American Association of University Women-Kona, Wednesday, April 10. Two $1,000 awards for two-year vocational program attendees. Application packets at kona-hi.aauw.net. sharonnind@aol.com

Volcano Bay Clinic Mobile Health Unit Visit: Dental, Wednesday, April 10, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Medical, Thursday, April 25, 1 p.m – 5 p.m. Cooper Center, Volcano Village. Must be Bay Clinic, Inc. patient. 333-3600 for appt. thecoopercenter.org

Ki‘i, Wednesday, April 10, 10 a.m. – noon, Kīlauea Visitor Center lānai. Acclaimed artist James Kanani Kaulukukui Jr. shares his expertise and the essential role of ki‘i, statue, in Hawaiian society. Free; park entrance fees apply. nps.gov/havo

THURSDAY, APRIL 11
Free Vision Screenings, Thursday, April 11, Volcano School of Arts & Sciences. Students receive free comprehensive eye exam and sunglasses. If given a prescription, keiki will receive free eyeglasses with choice of frames, with parental consent. Mission co-sponsored by Tūtū & Me and Project Vision Hawaiʻi. pidf.org/programs/tutu_and_me, projectvisionhawaii.org, 808-430-0388

Story Time with Auntie Linda from Tūtū and Me, Thursday, April 11, 10:30 a.m. – noon, Nā‘ālehu Public Library. Free; includes craft activity. 929-8571

Hawaiian Civic Club of Ka‘ū, Thursday, April 11, 6:30 p.m., United Methodist Church, Nā‘ālehu. Pres. Berkley Yoshida, 747-0197

‘O Ka‘ū Kākou Mtg., Thursday, April 11, 6:30 p.m., Aspen Center. okaukakou.org

Tales of Forgiveness and Tales of the Three Monks, performed by Storyteller Jeff Gere, Thursday, April 11, 6:30 p.m., Volcano Art Center. $10/VAC member, $15/non-member. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

FRIDAY, APRIL 12
Hawai‘i Disability Legal Services, Friday, April 12, 9 a.m. – noon, Ocean View Community Center. Free disability legal services provided by Hawai‘i Legal Aid. ovcahi.org, 939-7033

Community Dance, Friday, April 12, 7 p.m – 10 p.m., Cooper Center, Volcano Village. Minors allowed with supervision only. Alcohol-free event. Variety of music. Snacks provided; additional pūpū welcome. Free. 967-7800, thecoopercenter.org

SATURDAY, APRIL 13
Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund Annual Manuka/NARS Cleanup, Saturday, April 13. Free; donations appreciated. RSVP: kahakai.cleanups@gmail.com, 769-7629

Parenting Class & Saturday School, Saturday, April 13, 7:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., Ocean View Community Center, downstairs. Sponsored by Nā‘ālehu Elementary School. 939-7033, ovcahi.org
Pancake Breakfast and Raffle, Saturday, April 13, 8 a.m. – 11 a.m., Ocean View Community Center. To volunteer, call 939-7033. ovcahi.org

Soft Pastel Still Life with Patti Pease Johnson, Saturday, April 13, 9 a.m. – noon, Volcano Art Center. $45/VAC member, $50/non-member, plus $10 supply fee. Beginner and intermediate artists welcome. Register: volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

Nā Mamo O Kāwā ʻOhana Work Day, Saturday, April 13, meet 9:30 a.m., Northern Gate, Kāwā. RSVP: James Akau, jakau@nmok.org, 561-9111. nmok.org, facebook.com/NMOK.Hawaii

Ka‘u Unity Celebration, Saturday, April 13, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., multi-purpose room, Ka‘ū District Gym. All ages. Free. Register same day. 928-3102, hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation

Zentangle: Celtic-Inspired Knotwork with Ellen O'Dunn, Saturday, April 13, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., Volcano Art Center. Bring drawing supplies; loaner supplies available. Bring snack to share. $30/VAC member, $35/non-member, plus $10 supply fee. Register: volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

Hula Kahiko - Kumu Kini Ka‘awa with Kua O Ka Lā Public Charter School, Saturday, April 13, 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., hula platform near Volcano Art Center Gallery. Hula performance. Free; park entrance fees apply. 967-8222, volcanohula@gmail.com, volcanoartcenter.org

Nā Mea Hula with Loke Kamanu & ‘Ohana, Saturday, April 13, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., Volcano Art Center Gallery porch. Hands-on cultural demonstration. Free; park entrance fees apply. 967-8222, volcanohula@gmail.com, volcanoartcenter.org

Jazz in the Forest: Jazz Goes to the Movies, Saturday, April 13, 5:30 p.m., Volcano Art Center. Watch Jean Pierre Thoma and the Jazztones play along with a collection of tunes alongside a silver screen. $20/VAC member, $25/non-member. Register: volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

Lava Lounge Entertainment, Saturday, April 13, 7 p.m. – 10 p.m., Kīlauea Military Camp. Soul Town performs. $5 cover per person. Open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. kilaueamilitarycamp.com

SUNDAY, APRIL 14
Palm Sunday Services, April 14, 9:30 a.m., St. Jude's Episcopal Church, Ocean View. 939-7000

Ocean View Easter Egg Hunt at Kahuku Park happens Sunday, April 14, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sponsored by D-Tech solutions, Robert Unger, 238-8441, is accepting donations of plastic eggs and individually wrapped candy.

Medicine for the Mind: Teachings in the Tibetan Buddhist Tradition, Sunday, April 14, 2nd Sunday monthly, 3 p.m. – 5 p.m., Volcano Art Center. Free; calabash donations welcome. Dress warmly. Patty Johnson, 345-1527

MONDAY, APRIL 15
Discovery Harbour Neighborhood Watch Mtg., Monday, April 15, 5 p.m. – 6:30 p.m., Discovery Harbour Community Hall. 929-9576, discoveryharbour.net

Mobile Spay & Neuter Waggin', Monday, April 16, 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m., St. Jude's Episcopal Church,
Ocean View. Low income pet parents and those with limited transportation qualify for mobile spay/neuter service. Free. Surgery by appointment only. Hawai‘i Island Humane Society, hihs.org, 796-0107

ONGOING
Two $1,000 Scholarships are available from American Association of University Women-Kona to any female high school graduate or older women attending a two-year vocational program leading to a marketable skill at Palamanui Campus. Applications must be postmarked by Wednesday, April 10.  Application packets available at kona-hi.aauw.net. Contact sharonnind@aol.com.

Beginning Farmer Institute Cohort Applications open through Monday, April 15. Free training program which "prepares new producers of any age or operation type for a successful future in agriculture." Applications at nfu.org/education/beginning-farmer-institute.

Kaʻū Coffee Fest invites non-profits, clubs, cooperatives, and businesses to sign up for booths 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. No campaign and other political displays. Fifty percent discounts for non-profit organizations and cooperatives selling food, crafts, and coffee. Vendors must also obtain county vendor permits costing $30 each and a Department of Health permit, if serving food. Call Gail Nagata 933-0918. 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.

Exhibit: On Sacred Ground by Dino Morrow is open daily through Sunday, May 5 at Volcano Art Center Gallery. The public is invited to see documentary and portrait photography of Hula Arts at the Kīlauea Program. Visit volcanoartcenter.org for more information.

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Sunday, April 07, 2019

Kaʻū News Briefs, Sunday, April 7, 2019

The historic Shirakawa Motel is up for sale with more than 14,000 square feet of buildings. It was formerly known
as the Southernmost Motel in the USA. In recent years it was occupied by Pacific Quest.
Photo from Hawaiʻi Life Real Estate Brokers
PACIFIC QUEST IS LEAVING WAIʻŌHINU AT THE OLD SHIRAKAWA MOTEL COMPLEX. The property, owned by the Ray Shirakawa family, is for sale for $2.25 million. According to its real estate listing, it includes 5.5 acres, 25 bedrooms, 16 full baths, and three half baths in some 14,000 square feet of buildings. Among the buildings with accommodations is the historic Shirakawa Hotel, owned and operated by generations of Shirakawa families. With the addition of a one story building with rooms in a row, it was renamed Shirakawa Motel, its story carried in guide books as the southernmost motel in the U.S.A.
     In 1988, The New York Times carried a feature called Small Hotels and Inns of the Big Island, which described Shirakawa Motel, along with Manago Hotel - founded in 1917, Dolphin Bay Hotel in Hilo, Hotel Honokaʻa Club, the Arakaki's five-room place in Waipio Valley (out of operation), Parker Ranch Lodge in Kamuela (now Kamuela Inn),
The ice house, formerly used by fishing community, is one of the buildings
up for sale at the Shirakawa property.
Photo from Hawaiʻi Life Real Estate Brokers 
and Old Hawaiian Lodging Company in Hawi (now Kohala Village Inn).
     The New York Times described the Shirakawa Motel as "nearly in the shadow of Mark Twain's Monkeypod Tree, planted by Twain during his visit to the islands in 1866."
     It says the original building, "opened in 1926 as a way stop for salesmen, is now home to the family of Takumi Shirakawa. In a wonderful juxtaposition of then and now, guests who want to call him at his nearby nursery farm just press the button on a portable telephone buzzer in the foyer." It described the accommodations "amid trees dripping red and yellow double hibiscus flowers." Rates were $19 for a single, $21 for a double, and $25 for a room with a kitchenette. Rollaways for children were $6. The story recommended Roy Toguchi's Nāʻālehu Coffee Shop (now Hana Hou) in Nāʻālehu.
     According to the real estate listing for the Shirakawa property, in addition to the hotel building, the property includes the separate structure with motel rooms, the ice house from the Shirakawa fishing enterprise, and a house with a large room that was home to a hula hālau.
     The listing says the property receives $15,000 a month in rental income.
     During its tenure at Shirakawa's, Pacific Quest has hired many Kaʻū residents for its in-house treatment program for youth and has operated, as part of its therapy, a farm above in Nāʻālehu. Pacific Quest is reportedly planning to transition to a new location in Mountain View, closer to its Hilo facilities. Its farm on Kalaiki Road, the old sugar cane haul road between Pāhala and Nāʻālehu, is not up for sale.
Former home of a Shirakawa family and hula studio. The property, for sale, recently hosted the Pacific Quest youth
treatment center, which is moving its operations out of Kaʻū. Photo from Hawaiʻi Life Real Estate Brokers

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KAʻŪ FARMERS AND RANCHERS, ALONG WITH A&B, may enjoy extended water permits for seven years, if a bill that passed the House of Representatives goes directly to a Senate floor vote, unamended, and wins approval.
Sen. Kai Kahele. Photo from Think Tech Hawaiʻi
     A Civil Beat story by Chad Blair this weekend says House Bill 1326 - amended last week by Sen. Kai Kahele to become HB 1326 SD1, to extend water permits for small ranchers and farms and utilities, while prohibiting A&B from continuing to divert stream water - does not qualify for the floor vote. The eligible bill for a floor vote crossed over from House to the Senate before Kahele amended it. It would allow agricultural entities, utilities, and A&B to continue using water.
     Kaʻū farmers and ranchers were drawn into the mix, with A&B under court order to return water to streams. A&B sought legislation to delay halting stream diversion to provide water rights for buyers of its land who agreed to pay $62 million for water rights alone. According to Civil Beat, "Some senators want to help A&B. Now sources say leadership in the House of Representatives is pressuring their counterparts in the Senate to force a floor vote on the bill Tuesday... To put it another way, if just 13 senators in the 25-member chamber vote 'aye' on Tuesday, HB 1326 would go to Gov. David Ige for his consideration...
     "Opponents of HB 1326, including Native Hawaiians, environmentalists, and small farmers, are organizing to get the word out about the bill's possible revival," reported Civil Beat. Kaʻū ranchers and farmers supported HB1326 before the Kahele amendment to protect them. The bill with the Kahele amendment died in the Senate last week.

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HABITAT FOR HUMANITY, which has helped people become homeowners in Kaʻū and around the island, invites supporters to a Charity Walk on Saturday, May 1 beginning at Queen's Marketplace at Waikaloa Beach Resort. The run starts at 6:45 a.m., the walk at 7 a.m. The event is the Hawaiʻi Island's Visitor Industry Charity Walk with walks and runs statewide, spearheaded by the Hawaiʻi Lodging & Tourism Association and its non-profit Hawaiʻi Hotel Industry Foundation. Since its inception in 1978, over $32 million has been raised and helped hundreds of local charities including Habitat for Humanity Hawaiʻi Island. Habitat's work in Kaʻū has been to help local people use sweat equity and volunteers to build single family homes, which they now own.
     Habitat also partners with Hawaiian Home Lands to help Native Hawaiians build and own houses on Hawaiian Home Lands.
     For the Charity Walk, minimum donation to be on the Habitat team is $35. To register, contact Margo Takata, Habitat's Community Relations Manager at margo@habitathawaiiisland.org or (808) 331-8010 ext 106. Those unable to walk that day can donate and share the event with friends, family, and co-workers. "It's a great way to start the morning with a fun walk, great food, and entertainment, while supporting Habitat for Humanity Hawaiʻi Island!" said Tanaka.

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 Trojans Spring Sports Schedule
Baseball:
Sat., April 13, 3 p.m., @Kamehameha
Fri., April 19, BIIF Semi-Finals
Sat., April 20, BIIF Semi-Finals
Fri., April 26, BIIF Finals
Sat., April 27, BIIF Finals
Wed.-Sat., May 8-11, HHSAA
Softball:
Fri., April 12, BIIF Semi-Finals
Sat., April 13, BIIF Semi-Finals
Fri., April 19, BIIF Finals
Sat., April 20, BIIF Finals
Wed., May 1-4, HHSAA
Boys Volleyball:
Tue., April 9, 6 p.m., host Waiakea
Fri., April 12, 6 p.m., @Keaʻau
Wed., April 17, 6 p.m., Kamehameha
Fri., April 19, 6 p.m., host Honokaʻa
Mon. April 22, BIIF First Round
Wed., April 24, BIIF Semi-Finals
Thu., April 25, BIIF Finals
Thu.-Sat., May 2-4, HHSAA
Track:
Sat., April 13, 9 a.m., @HPA
Sat., April 20, 9 a.m., @Kamehameha
Fri., April 26, 2 p.m., BIIF Semi-Finals
Sat., April 27, 3 p.m., BIIF Finals
Fri.-Sat., May 3-4, HHSAA

JUST ANNOUNCED
THE PRICE OF PARADISE: THE STORY OF SANDALWOOD IN HAWAIʻI Coffee Talk happens Friday, April 26, 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Visitor Contact Station in the Kahuku Unit of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. This month's program is sponsored by the Friends of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.
     The release from the Park asks, "Did you know that sandalwood was once so abundant here that the Chinese called Hawaiʻi 'Tahn Heung Sahn,' or 'Sandalwood Mountains?' The infamous Sandalwood Trade of the early 1800s rendered sandalwood 'commercially extinct' within a few short years, and left the people and lands of Hawaiʻi forever changed. Hawaiian Sandalwood—and sandalwoods worldwide—are facing renewed threats due to over-exploitation and poaching. Join us for an exploration of the past, present, and future of sandalwood in Hawaiʻi as we examine the evolution, ecology, cultural significance, and the conservation of this irreplaceable resource."
     Speaker John Stallman is a biologist and a former ranger at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. He "enjoys expanding people's appreciation for the geology, natural history and diversity of Hawaiʻi's unique environments with interpretive walks and talks." Stallman currently does outreach and educational programs with the Friends of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.
     Coffee Talk at Kahuku is an opportunity to get to know the Park and neighbors, and join an informal conversation on a wide variety of topics. "Bring your own cuppa," and check out this program held on the last Friday of every month. Entrance located just south of the 70.5 mile marker on the mauka side of Hwy 11.

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.

UPCOMING
MONDAY, APRIL 8
Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund Coastal Net Patrol, Monday, April 8. Free; donations appreciated. RSVP to kahakai.cleanups@gmail.com, 769-7629

Free STD Testing, Monday, April 8, 2nd Monday monthly, 9 a.m. – noon, Ocean View Community Center. Sponsored by Hawai‘i Department of Health. Call for appt. on different day or time. Teenagers 14+ do not need parent/guardian consent. Confidential. Free condoms and lube. 895-4927

Kickball, Monday, April 8 through 29, 2:30 p.m – 3:30 p.m., Kahuku Park, H.O.V.E. Register keiki ages 6-12 April 1-5. Free. 929-9113, hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation

Kaʻū Coffee Festival Meeting, Monday, April 8, 5 p.m. at Pāhala Plantation House.

Pāhala Neighborhood Watch Mtg., Monday, April 8, 2nd Monday monthly, 5 p.m., activity room at Kaʻū District Gym.

Hypertension Management, Monday, April 8, 15, and 22, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., Kaʻū District Gym, with Hui Mālama Ola Nā ʻŌiwi.

TUESDAY, APRIL 9
Free Vision Screenings, Tuesday, April 9, Nāʻālehu Elementary. Students receive free comprehensive eye exam and sunglasses. If given a prescription, keiki will receive free eyeglasses with choice of frames, with parental consent. Mission co-sponsored by Tūtū & Me and Project Vision Hawaiʻi. pidf.org/programs/tutu_and_me, projectvisionhawaii.org, 808-430-0388

Hawai‘i County Council Mtgs., Tuesday, April 9 (Committees), Wednesday, April 10, (Council), Hilo. Ka‘ū residents can participate via videoconferencing at Nā‘ālehu State Office Building. Agendas at hawaiicounty.gov.

C.E.R.T. Discovery Harbour/Nā‘ālehu, Tuesday, April 9, 4 p.m – 6 p.m., Discovery Harbour Community Hall. Community Emergency Response Team info and training scenarios. Public welcome. Dina Shisler, dinashisler24@yahoo.com, 410-935-8087

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 10
Scholarship Application Deadline for American Association of University Women-Kona, Wednesday, April 10. Two $1,000 awards for two-year vocational program attendees. Application packets at kona-hi.aauw.net. sharonnind@aol.com

Volcano Bay Clinic Mobile Health Unit Visit: Dental, Wednesday, April 10, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Medical, Thursday, April 25, 1 p.m – 5 p.m. Cooper Center, Volcano Village. Must be Bay Clinic, Inc. patient. 333-3600 for appt. thecoopercenter.org

Ki‘i, Wednesday, April 10, 10 a.m. – noon, Kīlauea Visitor Center lānai. Acclaimed artist James Kanani Kaulukukui Jr. shares his expertise and the essential role of ki‘i, statue, in Hawaiian society. Free; park entrance fees apply. nps.gov/havo

THURSDAY, APRIL 11
Free Vision Screenings, Thursday, April 11, Volcano School of Arts & Sciences. Students receive free comprehensive eye exam and sunglasses. If given a prescription, keiki will receive free eyeglasses with choice of frames, with parental consent. Mission co-sponsored by Tūtū & Me and Project Vision Hawaiʻi. pidf.org/programs/tutu_and_me, projectvisionhawaii.org, 808-430-0388

Story Time with Auntie Linda from Tūtū and Me, Thursday, April 11, 10:30 a.m. – noon, Nā‘ālehu Public Library. Free; includes craft activity. 929-8571

Hawaiian Civic Club of Ka‘ū, Thursday, April 11, 6:30 p.m., United Methodist Church, Nā‘ālehu. Pres. Berkley Yoshida, 747-0197

‘O Ka‘ū Kākou Mtg., Thursday, April 11, 6:30 p.m., Aspen Center. okaukakou.org

Tales of Forgiveness and Tales of the Three Monks, performed by Storyteller Jeff Gere, Thursday, April 11, 6:30 p.m., Volcano Art Center. $10/VAC member, $15/non-member. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

FRIDAY, APRIL 12
Hawai‘i Disability Legal Services, Friday, April 12, 9 a.m. – noon, Ocean View Community Center. Free disability legal services provided by Hawai‘i Legal Aid. ovcahi.org, 939-7033

Community Dance, Friday, April 12, 7 p.m – 10 p.m., Cooper Center, Volcano Village. Minors allowed with supervision only. Alcohol-free event. Variety of music. Snacks provided; additional pūpū welcome. Free. 967-7800, thecoopercenter.org

SATURDAY, APRIL 13
Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund Annual Manuka/NARS Cleanup, Saturday, April 13. Free; donations appreciated. RSVP: kahakai.cleanups@gmail.com, 769-7629

Parenting Class & Saturday School, Saturday, April 13, 7:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., Ocean View Community Center, downstairs. Sponsored by Nā‘ālehu Elementary School. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Pancake Breakfast and Raffle, Saturday, April 13, 8 a.m. – 11 a.m., Ocean View Community Center. To volunteer, call 939-7033. ovcahi.org

Soft Pastel Still Life with Patti Pease Johnson, Saturday, April 13, 9 a.m. – noon, Volcano Art Center. $45/VAC member, $50/non-member, plus $10 supply fee. Beginner and intermediate artists welcome. Register: volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

Nā Mamo O Kāwā ʻOhana Work Day, Saturday, April 13, meet 9:30 a.m., Northern Gate, Kāwā. RSVP: James Akau, jakau@nmok.org, 561-9111. nmok.org, facebook.com/NMOK.Hawaii

Ka‘u Unity Celebration, Saturday, April 13, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., multi-purpose room, Ka‘ū District Gym. All ages. Free. Register same day. 928-3102, hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation

Zentangle: Celtic-Inspired Knotwork with Ellen O'Dunn, Saturday, April 13, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., Volcano Art Center. Bring drawing supplies; loaner supplies available. Bring snack to share. $30/VAC member, $35/non-member, plus $10 supply fee. Register: volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

Hula Kahiko - Kumu Kini Ka‘awa with Kua O Ka Lā Public Charter School, Saturday, April 13, 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., hula platform near Volcano Art Center Gallery. Hula performance. Free; park entrance fees apply. 967-8222, volcanohula@gmail.com, volcanoartcenter.org

Nā Mea Hula with Loke Kamanu & ‘Ohana, Saturday, April 13, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., Volcano Art Center Gallery porch. Hands-on cultural demonstration. Free; park entrance fees apply. 967-8222, volcanohula@gmail.com, volcanoartcenter.org

Jazz in the Forest: Jazz Goes to the Movies, Saturday, April 13, 5:30 p.m., Volcano Art Center. Watch Jean Pierre Thoma and the Jazztones play along with a collection of tunes alongside a silver screen. $20/VAC member, $25/non-member. Register: volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

Lava Lounge Entertainment, Saturday, April 13, 7 p.m. – 10 p.m., Kīlauea Military Camp. Soul Town performs. $5 cover per person. Open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. kilaueamilitarycamp.com

SUNDAY, APRIL 14
Palm Sunday Services, April 14, 9:30 a.m., St. Jude's Episcopal Church, Ocean View. 939-7000

Ocean View Easter Egg Hunt at Kahuku Park happens Sunday, April 14, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Sponsored by D-Tech solutions, Robert Unger, 238-8441, is accepting donations of plastic eggs and individually wrapped candy.

Medicine for the Mind: Teachings in the Tibetan Buddhist Tradition, Sunday, April 14, 2nd Sunday monthly, 3 p.m. – 5 p.m., Volcano Art Center. Free; calabash donations welcome. Dress warmly. Patty Johnson, 345-1527

ONGOING
Two $1,000 Scholarships are available from American Association of University Women-Kona to any female high school graduate or older women attending a two-year vocational program leading to a marketable skill at Palamanui Campus. Applications must be postmarked by Wednesday, April 10.  Application packets available at kona-hi.aauw.net. Contact sharonnind@aol.com.

Beginning Farmer Institute Cohort Applications open through Monday, April 15. Free training program which "prepares new producers of any age or operation type for a successful future in agriculture." Applications at nfu.org/education/beginning-farmer-institute.

Kaʻū Coffee Fest invites non-profits, clubs, cooperatives, and businesses to sign up for booths 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. No campaign and other political displays. Fifty percent discounts for non-profit organizations and cooperatives selling food, crafts, and coffee. Vendors must also obtain county vendor permits costing $30 each and a Department of Health permit, if serving food. Call Gail Nagata 933-0918. 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.

Exhibit: On Sacred Ground by Dino Morrow is open daily through Sunday, May 5 at Volcano Art Center Gallery. The public is invited to see documentary and portrait photography of Hula Arts at the Kīlauea Program. Visit volcanoartcenter.org for more information.

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Saturday, April 06, 2019

Kaʻū News Briefs, Saturday, April 6, 2019

Only small amounts of SO2 and H2S are being released from Kīlauea, but they chemically react with each other in 
an oxidation-reduction reaction to form the bright yellow sulfur deposits visible on the crater walls within 
Halema‘uma‘u. The current low sulfur emission rates at Kīlauea have contributed to beautifully clear skies 
in downwind areas. See Volcano Watch, below. USGS photo by M. Poland, March 22, 2019
GETTING RID OF THE ELECTORAL COLLEGE is a goal of Sen. Brian Schatz who is asking constituents to sign a petition. Said Schatz, "Presidential elections should be simple. Every eligible American should be able to vote, those votes should be counted, and the candidate who receives the most votes should win the White House.
     "Unfortunately, this isn't the way it works. The electoral college is an outdated institution that gives some states more influence than others. It allowed two of the last three presidents to win an election despite losing the popular vote - including Donald Trump.
     "That's why I introduced a plan to end the electoral college, so that the candidate supported by the most Americans actually wins. Add your name if you support my plan."

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Waterways left over from sugar plantation days
provide irrigation to Kaʻū agriculture.
  Photo from Olson Trust
AN ATTEMPT TO SEPARATE KAʻŪ RANCHERS AND FARMERS from large landowners, in a battle over state water, failed this week. The possible solution for local agricultural entities, initiated by Sen. Kai Kahele, passed the Senate Water & Land Committee and was two steps away from the governor's desk, when Senate Ways & Means Committee chair Donovan Dela Cruz refused to hear the bill.
     House Bill 1326 SD1 would haven pulled Kaʻū out of the mix through exempting ranchers and farmers, who use less than two million gallons a day, from legislation to regulate large landowners diverting water from streams. Kaʻū farmers and ranchers note that their water comes from horizontal wells drilled into the ground rather than streams diverted from one ahupua`a to another.
     Without Kahele's amendment, Kaʻū farmers and ranchers are faced with an end-of-year deadline that requires them to convert from state water permits to long-term state leases. Kaʻū farmers and ranchers said this could mean paying for environmental assessments for their water usage, even with the possibility that permits would go out to public auction once the EA's are completed.
     The water fight could also interfere with hydroelectric operations on this island, with one being developed in Kaʻū by Olson Trust. 
     Kahele's amendment received praise from environmental and Native Hawaiian entities, that submitted testimony urging the state to manage water in a more accountable and transparent way, consistent with the public trust for water as a public resource.
     Those groups opposed Alexander & Baldwin's sale of agricultural water rights along with large tracts of property on Maui, following judges ordering A&B to put the water back into the streams.
     See April 4 and April 1 Kaʻū News Briefs for more.

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DAMIEN KAIMANA BARCARSE is appointed by Gov. David Ige to represent Hawai‘i County on the statewide Board of Education. Barcarse has worked at Kamehameha Schools since 2013, most recently as the West Hawai‘i regional director. Previously, Barcarse served as the director of the Hawaiian Cultural Based Education Department, as well as interim director/senior project manager and coordinator at the ʻĀina Based Education Department at Kamehameha Schools.
Kaimana Barcarse awaits state Senate confirmation to become a member
of the state Board of Education. He works for Kamehameha Schools as
West Hawaiʻi regional director. Photo from Cultural Survival Quarterly
     Barcarse is an educator who teaches the connection between language, culture, and environment. In a June, 2017, article in Cultural Survival Quarterly Magazine, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts,  he said, "There's definitely a connection between the environment and our language. Hawaiians believe that we are a part of the earth and the ecosystem, and we have that connection to the earth. In many ways our deities are all connected to the earth. We have deities that are connected to the mountains, to the trees, to the oceans, to the sky. We communicate with these deities, and we do it of course through our Indigenous language.
     "We have hundreds of names for rain and just as many names for the winds, and knowing the names of the winds and the rains can tell you where you are, what island you're on. It can tell you what season you're in, what kinds of events are happening. It can also help you predict what kind of events are going to happen. If we're in the uplands of Waiakea and we feel the Uluau winds, we know the trade winds are light, and we know this is a land-associated breeze that brings with it a certain feel and certain fragrance. If we feel the Mālualuaki‘iwai winds, it's a cool, stiff wind, we know that rain is going to follow shortly after because Mālualuaki‘iwai means to gather and bring the rains over. Our language is closely tied to what we observe and what we see out in nature. So in that way we can understand; we can frame the climate and frame the environment through our language, and our language describes the environment.
     "Looking through our oral histories and our written histories to understand what the seasons and the cycles are can give us data over time. That is fully scientific data that is historic, observed over hundreds of years. And when we understand how that cycle changes and compare it to how that cycle changes now, you can see the pattern of climate change—as things start to warm up, as certain areas start to have the sea level rise... We listen to our songs of a certain area, it talks about the līpoa, it's a type of seaweed, and the ‘alamihi, crabs. You go there today, you won't see alamihi. You won't smell the līpoa like you used to. That tells us that that the environment has changed. By knowing your language, by knowing your history, by understanding how descriptive and how intimate our language is with the environment, you can understand the nuances, whether they be really subtle or really obvious. You can understand the changes, and by that you can understand your relationship to the environment."
     Prior to joining Kamehameha Schools, Barcarse was a staff member and lecturer of ethno-zoology and voyaging and navigation at the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo's Hawaiian Studies Division. He is also a DJ and program producer for KWXX-FM. Barcarse's three-year term would begin July 1. He replaces Patricia Bergin.
     Ige has also re-appointed Kenneth Uemura to the City and County of Honolulu seat and Bruce Voss to the at-large seat on the BOE. Both Uemura and Voss also begin their three-year terms on July 1, 2019. All three appointees are subject to Senate confirmation.

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A CHANGE IN SENATE RULES TO ALLOW CUTTING OFF DEBATE after two hours during confirmation of  judicial nominees has drawn opposition from Sen. Mazie Hirono.
Sen. Mazie Hirono.
Photo from Hirono's Twitter
     Said Hirono, "In an effort to rush their right-wing judicial nominees to the bench, Republicans went 'nuclear' and changed the Senate rules. Normally, the president's nominees face up to 30 hours of debate in the Senate so that we can do our due diligence in making sure they are fit for the position to which they were nominated. This is part of the Senate's constitutionally mandated advice and consent role.
     "But Mitch McConnell and Republicans have successfully reduced 30 hours of debate to two hours so they can quickly send more of Trump's ultra-conservative hand-picked nominees to the district courts. That's right, only two hours.
     "The GOP will stop at nothing to pack the courts with young, conservative ideologues who will make critical decisions on issues like healthcare, LGBTQ protections, gun safety reform, women's choice, and so much more -- and once approved, these judges have lifetime appointments, meaning many will be there for decades after Trump and even McConnell are out of office.
     "We need to send a strong message to McConnell, Trump, and the GOP: we've had enough of their partisan court packing."

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VOLCANIC POLLUTION is the subject of this week's Volcano Watch, written by U.S. Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists and affiliates. The column is entitled Eruption pause provides an opportunity to probe volcanic pollution:
     The end of Kīlauea's 2018 eruption this past September was accompanied by an enormous decrease in the amount of sulfur dioxide gas (SO2) emitted from the volcano. This has led to beautifully clear skies gracing the Island of Hawai‘i, particularly noticeable on the west side, where the volcanic pollution known as vog chronically collected in past years.
Telephoto zoom of the largest sulfur deposit forming on the 
northeast talus wall in Halema‘uma‘u. The view is from 
USGS HVO's K3cam. Image from volcanoes.usgs.gov
     During the peak of the 2018 lower East Rift Zone (LERZ) eruption, when the volcanic emissions and vog were both much stronger, a team of academic researchers worked with the U.S. Geological Survey’s Hawaiian Volcano Observatory and the Hawaiʻi State Department of Health to study the intense volcanic air pollution events generated by the eruption.
     The researchers, U.K. scientists from the Universities of Leeds, Cambridge and Oxford, sampled volcanic particles and gases at the LERZ fissure 8 vent, the ocean entry, and various sites downwind: Leilani Estates, Orchidland Estates, Volcano, Pāhala, Ocean View, and Captain Cook. To determine the nature and composition of the volcanic pollution, samples were collected by pumping air through filters, from the ground and from the air using drones.
     The tiny particles captured on the filters were then analyzed in the laboratory for chemical composition and imaged using a powerful Scanning Electron Microscope to determine the composition of individual particles. Other instruments determined the number or weight of particles of various sizes, which are associated with different health impacts in studies of human-caused pollution. The samples were analyzed for pH (acidity); major components, including sulfate, fluoride, and chloride; and trace metals, such as lead and arsenic.
     These analyses targeted chemical species that we know are present in volcanic plumes. Kīlauea's plume is composed primarily of water vapor, carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and entrained air, along with smaller amounts of other gases, including hydrogen chloride and hydrogen fluoride. SO2 reacts in the atmosphere over time to form tiny acidic and neutral sulfate particles, which are a major component of volcanic pollution in Hawaiʻi. Small amounts of toxic metals have also been found in the volcanic gas plumes emitted from Kīlauea's vents – see vog.ivhhn.org/vog-fact-sheets.
     The summer 2018 gas and particle sampling campaign was the first effort to look at how trace elements, such as metals, change over distance in the Kīlauea plume. It was found that the amount of these elements was highly variable but was not solely predicted by the distance of the plume from the vent. Most of the particles – 99 percent – were less than 2.5 micron in diameter—small enough to penetrate deep into the lungs.
     The study's findings also support previous observations regarding the chemical conversion of SO2 gas to particles. Areas far from the gas source, such as along Hawaiʻi Island's Kona coast, had high particle concentrations since much of the SO2 gas had converted to particles as it travelled downwind. Ambient air quality standards for both SO2 gas and particles were exceeded at various locations on the island during the three months of the LERZ eruption,  health.hawaii.gov/cab/files/2018/08/exceedances_2018_08_01_04.pdf.
Vog safety tips were important last year, when air quality was
impacted by gasses and ash from the eruption. USGS poster
     In contrast to last summer, Kῑlauea's current lull in activity provides an excellent opportunity to study background air quality. This can help us distinguish between anthropogenic pollution, such as traffic exhaust, and volcanic pollution. While controlling emissions from a volcano is not a practical proposition, understanding the contribution of human-made pollution, which can be controlled, is important on an island with a growing population.    
     To address the characterization of anthropogenic pollution, the same research team plans to return this coming summer to sample the background air without the volcanic contribution, using the same equipment and sampling sites. The 'before' and 'after' snapshots will help to isolate the chemical fingerprint of the volcanic particles. This will improve our understanding of the potential health, environmental, and ecosystem effects of volcanic plumes.
     The eruptive events of 2018 have reshaped the land and the lives for many residents in Hawaiʻi Island's lower Puna District. The end of the eruption allows all of us across the island to breathe more easily, literally and figuratively, and provides an opportunity to better understand the chemistry and impacts of the Kīlauea volcanic plume.
     Three earthquakes with three or more felt reports occurred in Hawaiʻi during the past week: a magnitude-2.8 quake 26 km (16 mi) west of Pepeʻekeo at a depth of 33 km (21 mi) on April 1 at 9:42 p.m. HST; a magnitude-3.4 quake 10 km (6 mi) northeast of Pāhala at a depth of 31 km (19 mi) on March 31 at 7:49 a.m. HST; and a magnitude-3.7 quake 2 km (1 mi) southeast of Kapaʻau at a depth of 38 km (24 mi) on March 29 at 8:29 p.m. HST.
     Visit volcanoes.usgs.gov/hvo for past Volcano Watch articles, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa updates, volcano photos, maps, recent earthquake info, and more. Call 808-967-8862 for weekly Kīlauea updates. Email questions to askHVO@usgs.gov.

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FLIGHT PLANS for Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park for April, 2019, are:
     April 8, 10 a.m. to noon, for invasive faya tree surveys on the Keamoku flows above Highway 11 to Kīpukapuaulu.
     April 18, 8 a.m. to noon, for invasive Guinea grass surveys and control along Keauhou Trail, from the coast to 2,700-foot elevation.
     April 22, 10 a.m. to noon, for invasive faya tree surveys on Mauna Loa between the powerline road and Kīpukapuaulu.
     April 24, at 8 a.m. and April 26 at 11 a.m., to fly supplies and crews for petrel monitoring from the Kīlauea helipad at 4,000-foot elevation to Mauna Loa at 9,000 feet and back. 
     April 18 and April 24, 8 a.m. to noon, to transport fence material, field equipment and supplies to the Ka‘ū desert boundary between sea level and 3,000-foot elevation.
     USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory may conduct flight operations over Kīlauea and Mauna Loa to assess volcanic activity and maintain instrumentation. The park 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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KAʻ Ū TROJANS BOYS BASEBALL team played Waiakea Thursday. The Warriors took the game, 11 to 1.

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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 Trojans Spring Sports Schedule
Baseball:
Sat., April 13, 3 p.m., @Kamehameha
Fri., April 19, BIIF Semi-Finals
Sat., April 20, BIIF Semi-Finals
Fri., April 26, BIIF Finals
Sat., April 27, BIIF Finals
Wed.-Sat., May 8-11, HHSAA
Softball:
Fri., April 12, BIIF Semi-Finals
Sat., April 13, BIIF Semi-Finals
Fri., April 19, BIIF Finals
Sat., April 20, BIIF Finals
Wed., May 1-4, HHSAA
Boys Volleyball:
Tue., April 9, 6 p.m., host Waiakea
Fri., April 12, 6 p.m., @Keaʻau
Wed., April 17, 6 p.m., Kamehameha
Fri., April 19, 6 p.m., host Honokaʻa
Mon. April 22, BIIF First Round
Wed., April 24, BIIF Semi-Finals
Thu., April 25, BIIF Finals
Thu.-Sat., May 2-4, HHSAA
Track:
Sat., April 13, 9 a.m., @HPA
Sat., April 20, 9 a.m., @Kamehameha
Fri., April 26, 2 p.m., BIIF Semi-Finals
Sat., April 27, 3 p.m., BIIF Finals
Fri.-Sat., May 3-4, HHSAA

JUST ANNOUNCED
U.S. CENSUS BUREAU WILL HIRE temporary Census Takers, with pay starting at $16 per hour. Census Takers help make the 2020 Census an accurate and complete count. A release from the Census Bureau said, "There are so many reasons our nation needs to be counted completely and accurately. The count happens every 10 years with the decennial census, which influences how more than $675 billion from more than 100 federal programs are distributed to states and localities each year."
     Census numbers affect Medicaid, school lunch programs, community development grants, road and school construction, medical services, business locations, and more. See descriptions, frequently asked questions, and apply at 2020census.gov/jobs.

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UPCOMING
SUNDAY, APRIL 7
Sunday Clay - High Fire! with Erik Wold, eight week workshop starts Sunday, April 7. Morning session, 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.; afternoon session, 2:45 p.m. – 5:45 p.m., Volcano Art Center. Handmade functional pottery art – max. eight wheel throwers and three hand-builder spots per session. All skill levels. $180/VAC member, $200/non-member, plus $15 supply fee per person. Register: volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

Ham Radio Potluck Picnic, Sunday, April 7, 1st Sunday monthly, noon – 2 p.m., Manukā State Park. Anyone interested in learning about ham radio is welcome to attend. View sites.google.com/site/southpointarc or
sites.google.com/view/southhawaiiares/home. Rick Ward, 938-3058

MONDAY, APRIL 8
Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund Coastal Net Patrol, Monday, April 8. Free; donations appreciated. RSVP to kahakai.cleanups@gmail.com, 769-7629

Free STD Testing, Monday, April 8, 2nd Monday monthly, 9 a.m. – noon, Ocean View Community Center. Sponsored by Hawai‘i Department of Health. Call for appt. on different day or time. Teenagers 14+ do not need parent/guardian consent. Confidential. Free condoms and lube. 895-4927

Kickball, Monday, April 8 through 29, 2:30 p.m – 3:30 p.m., Kahuku Park, H.O.V.E. Register keiki ages 6-12 April 1-5. Free. 929-9113, hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation

Kaʻū Coffee Festival Meeting, Monday, April 8, 5 p.m. at Pāhala Plantation House.

Pāhala Neighborhood Watch Mtg., Monday, April 8, 2nd Monday monthly, 5 p.m., activity room at Kaʻū District Gym.

Hypertension Management, Monday, April 8, 15, and 22, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., Kaʻū District Gym, with Hui Mālama Ola Nā ʻŌiwi.

TUESDAY, APRIL 9
Free Vision Screenings, Tuesday, April 9, Nāʻālehu Elementary. Students receive free comprehensive eye exam and sunglasses. If given a prescription, keiki will receive free eyeglasses with choice of frames, with parental consent. Mission co-sponsored by Tūtū & Me and Project Vision Hawaiʻi. pidf.org/programs/tutu_and_me, projectvisionhawaii.org, 808-430-0388

Hawai‘i County Council Mtgs., Tuesday, April 9 (Committees), Wednesday, April 10, (Council), Hilo. Ka‘ū residents can participate via videoconferencing at Nā‘ālehu State Office Building. Agendas at hawaiicounty.gov.

C.E.R.T. Discovery Harbour/Nā‘ālehu, Tuesday, April 9, 4 p.m – 6 p.m., Discovery Harbour Community Hall. Community Emergency Response Team info and training scenarios. Public welcome. Dina Shisler, dinashisler24@yahoo.com, 410-935-8087

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 10
Scholarship Application Deadline for American Association of University Women-Kona, Wednesday, April 10. Two $1,000 awards for two-year vocational program attendees. Application packets at kona-hi.aauw.net. sharonnind@aol.com

Volcano Bay Clinic Mobile Health Unit Visit: Dental, Wednesday, April 10, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Medical, Thursday, April 25, 1 p.m – 5 p.m. Cooper Center, Volcano Village. Must be Bay Clinic, Inc. patient. 333-3600 for appt. thecoopercenter.org

Ki‘i, Wednesday, April 10, 10 a.m. – noon, Kīlauea Visitor Center lānai. Acclaimed artist James Kanani Kaulukukui Jr. shares his expertise and the essential role of ki‘i, statue, in Hawaiian society. Free; park entrance fees apply. nps.gov/havo

THURSDAY, APRIL 11
Free Vision Screenings, Thursday, April 11, Volcano School of Arts & Sciences. Students receive free comprehensive eye exam and sunglasses. If given a prescription, keiki will receive free eyeglasses with choice of frames, with parental consent. Mission co-sponsored by Tūtū & Me and Project Vision Hawaiʻi. pidf.org/programs/tutu_and_me, projectvisionhawaii.org, 808-430-0388

Story Time with Auntie Linda from Tūtū and Me, Thursday, April 11, 10:30 a.m. – noon, Nā‘ālehu Public Library. Free; includes craft activity. 929-8571

Hawaiian Civic Club of Ka‘ū, Thursday, April 11, 6:30 p.m., United Methodist Church, Nā‘ālehu. Pres. Berkley Yoshida, 747-0197

‘O Ka‘ū Kākou Mtg., Thursday, April 11, 6:30 p.m., Aspen Center. okaukakou.org

Tales of Forgiveness and Tales of the Three Monks, performed by Storyteller Jeff Gere, Thursday, April 11, 6:30 p.m., Volcano Art Center. $10/VAC member, $15/non-member. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

FRIDAY, APRIL 12
Hawai‘i Disability Legal Services, Friday, April 12, 9 a.m. – noon, Ocean View Community Center. Free disability legal services provided by Hawai‘i Legal Aid. ovcahi.org, 939-7033

Community Dance, Friday, April 12, 7 p.m – 10 p.m., Cooper Center, Volcano Village. Minors allowed with supervision only. Alcohol-free event. Variety of music. Snacks provided; additional pūpū welcome. Free. 967-7800, thecoopercenter.org

SATURDAY, APRIL 13
Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund Annual Manuka/NARS Cleanup, Saturday, April 13. Free; donations appreciated. RSVP: kahakai.cleanups@gmail.com, 769-7629

Parenting Class & Saturday School, Saturday, April 13, 7:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., Ocean View Community Center, downstairs. Sponsored by Nā‘ālehu Elementary School. 939-7033, ovcahi.org
Pancake Breakfast and Raffle, Saturday, April 13, 8 a.m. – 11 a.m., Ocean View Community Center. To volunteer, call 939-7033. ovcahi.org

Soft Pastel Still Life with Patti Pease Johnson, Saturday, April 13, 9 a.m. – noon, Volcano Art Center. $45/VAC member, $50/non-member, plus $10 supply fee. Beginner and intermediate artists welcome. Register: volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

Nā Mamo O Kāwā ʻOhana Work Day, Saturday, April 13, meet 9:30 a.m., Northern Gate, Kāwā. RSVP: James Akau, jakau@nmok.org, 561-9111. nmok.org, facebook.com/NMOK.Hawaii

Ka‘u Unity Celebration, Saturday, April 13, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., multi-purpose room, Ka‘ū District Gym. All ages. Free. Register same day. 928-3102, hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation

Zentangle: Celtic-Inspired Knotwork with Ellen O'Dunn, Saturday, April 13, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., Volcano Art Center. Bring drawing supplies; loaner supplies available. Bring snack to share. $30/VAC member, $35/non-member, plus $10 supply fee. Register: volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

Hula Kahiko - Kumu Kini Ka‘awa with Kua O Ka Lā Public Charter School, Saturday, April 13, 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., hula platform near Volcano Art Center Gallery. Hula performance. Free; park entrance fees apply. 967-8222, volcanohula@gmail.com, volcanoartcenter.org

Nā Mea Hula with Loke Kamanu & ‘Ohana, Saturday, April 13, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., Volcano Art Center Gallery porch. Hands-on cultural demonstration. Free; park entrance fees apply. 967-8222, volcanohula@gmail.com, volcanoartcenter.org

Jazz in the Forest: Jazz Goes to the Movies, Saturday, April 13, 5:30 p.m., Volcano Art Center. Watch Jean Pierre Thoma and the Jazztones play along with a collection of tunes alongside a silver screen. $20/VAC member, $25/non-member. Register: volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

Lava Lounge Entertainment, Saturday, April 13, 7 p.m. – 10 p.m., Kīlauea Military Camp. Soul Town performs. $5 cover per person. Open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. kilaueamilitarycamp.com

ONGOING
Two $1,000 Scholarships are available from American Association of University Women-Kona to any female high school graduate or older women attending a two-year vocational program leading to a marketable skill at Palamanui Campus. Applications must be postmarked by Wednesday, April 10.  Application packets available at kona-hi.aauw.net. Contact sharonnind@aol.com.

Beginning Farmer Institute Cohort Applications open through Monday, April 15. Free training program which "prepares new producers of any age or operation type for a successful future in agriculture." Applications at nfu.org/education/beginning-farmer-institute.

Kaʻū Coffee Fest invites non-profits, clubs, cooperatives, and businesses to sign up for booths 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. No campaign and other political displays. Fifty percent discounts for non-profit organizations and cooperatives selling food, crafts, and coffee. Vendors must also obtain county vendor permits costing $30 each and a Department of Health permit, if serving food. Call Gail Nagata 933-0918. 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.

Exhibit: On Sacred Ground by Dino Morrow is open daily through Sunday, May 5 at Volcano Art Center Gallery. The public is invited to see documentary and portrait photography of Hula Arts at the Kīlauea Program. Visit volcanoartcenter.org for more information.

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