The Kaʻū Calendar News Briefs, Hawaiʻi Island

Friday, July 29, 2022

Ka‘ū News Briefs, Friday, July 29, 2022

Naupaka by Tanya Ibarra is one of the artist offerings at this weekend's Experience Volcano Hawaiʻi Festival Saturday and

Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p..with arts, crafts, music, food, hula and more. See more below and at www.experiencevolcano.com.

A FIRE WEATHER WATCH FOR KAʻŪ has been issued for Sunday by the National Weather Service. Civil Defense made the announcement Friday afternoon, explaining that a Fire Weather Watch means that critical fire weather conditions are forecast to occur. "Strong, gusty trade winds, dry fuel, and low relative humidity could produce extreme fire behavior. Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly and be difficult to control."
County Civil Defense recommends the following: Limit any activity that involves using open flames such as grilling and camp fires. Do not park cars on dry grass after a trip.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see www.facebook.com/kaucalendar. See latest print edition at wwwkaucalendar.com. See upcoming events at https://kaunewsbriefs.blogspot.com/2022/04/upcoming-events-for-kau-and-volcano.htm

A JOINT PRESS CONFERENCE HELD BY GUBERNATORIAL CANDIDATES Vicky Cayetano and Kai Kahele created a stage this week for questions regarding their Democratic opponent Josh Green. The two, who noted that they are running against each other and have differences, said they are joining together to implore Green to release more information about his income beyond his lieutenant governor's job, including his weekend work as a physician and other money coming into his businesses. They also asked for more detail on his business and government connections with those contributing to his campaign and working with him outside of his job as lieutenant governor. They pointed to several of his companies including Green Health International, LLC.
Cayetano referred to Green's statements that his outside income is from caring for people as a physician.
She said that "the lieutenant governor should not think that "being a doctor should give him a free pass."

Kai Kahele and Vicky Cayetano held a joint press conference
asking questions about their opponent's business and campaign
finances. Photo from Hawai'i Public Radio

Cayetano said the Democratic Party itself should become involved "to deliver the truth, transparency and accountability."

Kahele said, "There is no lieutenant governor in the history of this state that has made more than a million dollars while serving as lieutenant governor in outside income in addition to his $165,000 taxpayer-funded salary as lieutenant governor, State of Hawai'i.....
"If there's nothing to hide, then release the documents. In growing up here in Hawai'i my whole life, this doesn't pass the kukai test, to be frank with you. This is something that the people of Hawai'i deserve answers to. We are voting right now."
The two also talked about consultants working with Green who were involved in a smear campaign during an earlier election for which they were fined and directed to provide money to charities.
See the entire press conference at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9qDohdo5VIU.

Green responded by calling the questions attacks and saying that issues instead of attacks should be the focus of the campaigns and that he is known for bringing people together. His wife also came out with statements saying Green is all about bringing people together.

This photo from Hawai'i Volcanoes illustrates the online volunteer application for
opportunities at the park. See https://www.volunteer.gov/s/global-search/Hawaii

THE VOLUNTEER PROGRAM FOR NATIVE PLANT RESTORATION AT HAWAI'I VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK will be up and running for August. Eric Hamren, of the Nursery Operations for Ke Ēweiēwe – Plant Restoration programs, announced three August service days.
The Monday, Aug. 8 nursery day invites volunteers to up-pot keiki and participate in general plant care. The Monday, Aug. 22 field and nursery day will see volunteers salvaging native plants along road and trail sides before the maintenance crews clear the area so they can transplant them into pots for a future restoration effort.

On Friday, Aug. 26, there will be a field day clearing aggressive and invasive plants in restoration plots along Mauna Loa Strip Road.
Hamren said, "Since we are still in the early stages of starting back up our volunteer program, we are trying out something different this month to compare results. Please navigate to volunteer.gov to sign up for these service days. Simply type Hawaiʻi into the search bar and all three service opportunities should be listed there. Warning, they may not all be up and active until August 4th."

Other volunteer opportunities listed at https://www.volunteer.gov/s/global-search/Hawaii include Volunteer Map Maker, Backcountry Office Assistant and Visitor Services Volunteer.

THE ECONOMY STREAM OF VIBRANT HAWAI'I has sent out a Call to Action regarding the County of Hawaiʻi's Economic Development Strategy. It says:
"The Hawaiʻi Island Economic Development Board has been contracted by the County of Hawaiʻi to garner community input for the 5-year CEDS that will guide use of the federal funds provided by the US Economic Development Administration. Many of the priority sectors identified by the 300+ stakeholders who came together to develop the Vibrant Hawaiʻi Economic Development Strategy in 2021 have been incorporated into the draft CoH CEDS.
"The industry sectors identified in the updated Hawaiʻi Island CEDS listed alphabetically are: Agriculture and Food Systems, Astronomy and Technology. Construction and Development, Creative Arts Education and Workforce Development, Energy, Transportation, and Shipping, Environment and Climate Change, Government, Health and Well-Being and Tourism."

A focus group to consider the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats for each of the industry sectors above focusing most on education, health, and poverty/ALICE on Thursday, Aug. 11.
Vibrant Hawaiʻi states, "We strongly urge Hawaiʻi Island residents to join us for the Economy Stream meeting on August 11th from 9:00-10:30AM." See Link to Vibrant Hawaiʻi Economic Development Strategy here. To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see www.facebook.com/kaucalendar. See latest print edition at wwwkaucalendar.com. See upcoming events at https://kaunewsbriefs.blogspot.com/2022/04/upcoming-events-for-kau-and-volcano.htm

EXPERIENCE VOLCANO HAWAI'I FESTIVAL opens Saturday morning for the two-day event. The family friendly festival spans the entire Volcano area from Akatsuka Orchid Gardens, to Volcano Village and Volcano Winery.
Organizers encourage everyone to visit all venues participating in the festival and to receive a stamp to qualify for prizes.

See the video of Experience Volcano Festival happening
Saturday and Sunday at www.experiencevolcano.com
Kilauea Lodge is one of the many venues.

This year's grand prize is provided by Volcano's Hale Hoʻola Spa. The Rejuvenation Package consists of a full body exfoliation, custom facial masks, a steam bath, scalp massage that reveals healthier skin. After completing the treatment, enjoy an hour long Hawaiian Lomilomi massage. This prize is valued at $300.
Other prizes include: A Hand Blown Paper Weight from 2400° Fahrenheit; Wine Tasting Packages at Volcano Winery (must be 21 and over); Volcano Wineries Trio Gift Set (must be 21 and over), Hand Carved Hawaiian Gourd As A Bowl, Kilauea Lodge Gift Certificates, Hawaiian Lilikoi Butters, Hand Made Ribbon Lei, KTA Gift Certificates and Ono Ribbon Scarfs.
Blown glass demonstrations will be on display once more at 2400 Fahrenheit, live & local music will be on the menu at Lava Rock Cafe, Kilauea Lodge, Volcano Art Center, & Volcano Winery.
This year the festival is playing host to over 40 local vendors offering locally made products and goodies with over 50 events taking place at all festival locations.

See the complete list of presenters, venues, a schedule and map at www.experiencevolcano.com.

Thursday, July 28, 2022

Ka‘ū News Briefs, Thursday, July 28, 2022

Subaru Telescope volunteer Ava Yamanaka helps advise Nā‘ālehu Elementary School students on playing chess, considered a building block game for math, problem solving and strategic thinking. Photo from Subaru Stars

SUBARU TELESCOPE CAME TO NĀ'ĀLEHU SCHOOL with outreach education this summer. Designed by Subaru Telescope to bring astronomy and STEM education to students and communities across Hawai‘i Island, the new Subaru Stars program held its first event at Nā‘ālehu Elementary School this summer in partnership with the Hawai‘i Science and Technology Museum.

Students code VEX 123 Robots. Photo from Subaru Stars

More than 50 Nā‘ālehu Elementary students, faculty and administrative staff enjoyed a morning of hands-on, engaging activities to ignite an interest (and perhaps a future career) in astronomy, science, technology, engineering and mathematics-related fields. Representatives of Subaru Stars said they plan to expand the traveling program to more rural areas this fall and will hold events in larger populated areas throughout the year as well. “Because of the size and geography of Hawai‘i Island, our rural communities often don’t have the same access to enrichment programs available in areas such as Hilo and Kailua-Kona,” said Subaru Telescope senior outreach specialist Christian Wong. “We’re developing this program in partnership with our local schools to see how we can best serve their needs. The pandemic has been extremely difficult on all of us, particularly our keiki and their teachers. Many of our Hawai‘i Island children are still making up for lost time in math, science, and language arts proficiencies. As members of this community, we created Subaru Stars to get kids excited about learning and to help as much as we can to strengthen their skills.”

For the first Subaru Stars, Subaru Telescope’s staff volunteers packed two company vehicles with equipment: oversized chess and checker boards, a trash can “vortex cannon,” programmable robotics equipment, Subaru-designed spectrum light cards, and a touchless musical instrument called a theremin. Students were grouped by age and rotated through stations during the two-hour event, giving them each a chance to immerse themselves in the various activities.

Keiki learned how to play chess and checkers, which a statement from Subaru describes as "excellent games that are the building blocks of mathematics, problem solving and strategic thinking."

VEX 123 Robots took coding off the screens and into small hands. These disc-shaped robots allowed students to work on coding with simple push-button commands. "Robotics is essential for bringing STEM, computer science, and computational thinking to life through hands-on experiences," says the Subaru statement.

A crowd favorite was the “vortex smoke cannon” made from a large trash can. Fogging machines filled the cans and students created smoke rings that shot across the room with incredible force thanks to physics and the “Bernoulli Principle.”

Astronomy education is a part of the Subaru Stars program. Subaru Telescope public outreach specialist Dr. Kumiko Usuda-Sato developed a “spectrum card” to teach keiki how astronomers study outer space. With this card, students were able to see the “rainbows” in their everyday world.

Subaru Stars engaged teachers, students and administrators at Nā‘ālehu Elementary School and called the session "a great start to a partnership Subaru Telescope hopes will continue far into the future."

Nā‘ālehu Elementary School Principal Wilma Roddy said, “We are always looking for opportunities for our kids — just to have that exposure to help them realize that they have options and they can be whatever they want to be. This is the first time I’m seeing an event like this anywhere since COVID. For the kids to be able to see, touch and feel … it helps them connect to these concepts more. I feel like it really sparks their curiosity.”

Dr. Kumiko Usuda-Sato shows students how an astronomer
studies outer space. Photo from Subaru Stars

Nā‘ālehu Elementary School sixth grade teacher Malu Zamudio said, “It’s exciting to see them so interested in something, and they don’t even realize it’s science. And after this, they can build off that experiential knowledge.” The Subaru statement says, "Subaru Stars was all about fun, but in the un is where learning and growing occurs." Third grader Kash Hu-Tavares was jumping directly into the smoke cannon rings as they would blow past him. “I like getting hit by the smoke rings,” he said. “It cools you off. I really hope they bring more events like this to our school because it’s so fun!” First grader Nieko Yates said every station and every activity were his favorite. “It all surprised me. There was so much science and so much learning! I’d never done these things before!”

The Subaru Stars team is busy preparing for the next event in September. “We are extremely happy with the first Subaru Stars,” says Wong. “The Subaru Stars team will be working closely with administrators to support STEM education, in particular helping to integrate computer science curriculum into the classroom. This is something that the Hawaii State Legislature and Governor Ige have identified as a priority in Hawai‘i schools.”

The Subaru Telescope is an 8.2 meter optical-infrared telescope at the summit of Maunakea. It is operated by the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan and the National Institutes of Natural Sciences. One of Subaru Telescope’s main missions in addition to astronomical discoveries is to foster education in the next generation of researches. The observatory of Subaru Telescope was officially established in April 1997.

AN EDUCATIONAL CAMPAIGN ON FOOD WASTE has been initiated by the County of Hawai'i.

It notes Marine Science Professor, Dr. Jake Burns saying, "The science clearly shows that food waste ending up in landfills becomes methane gas, which accelerates climate change."

The campaign quotes Leonie Laeha Poy saying: "Using all our food saves money and protects our planet."

It recommends that the public: "Take only what you eat, check the refrigerator before shopping, make an Eat First sign for leftovers, and try a new recipe with food that isn't fresh. Learn how to compost at home - it's easy." See more information at www.HawaiiZeroWaste.org.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see www.facebook.com/kaucalendar. See latest print edition at wwwkaucalendar.com. See upcoming events at https://kaunewsbriefs.blogspot.com/2022/04/upcoming-events-for-kau-and-volcano.htm

FOOD WASTE AT SCHOOLS IS REDUCED BY PROVIDING unused food to farmers. Kaʻū High & Pāhala Elementary has called for a bid on the School Cafeteria Swill/Slop. The unused food is a prize for pig farmers.

If interested, stop by the school main office in Pāhala for a bid slip or call for more information at 808-313-4100. Bids are due Friday, July 29 at 4 p.m.

The poster on the offer of swill/slop from the school is on bulletin boards and distributed through social media.

Hawai'i Pacific Parks Association's
new Sales Director Michelle Augello.

HAWAI'I PACIFIC PARKS ASSOCIATION, which operates visitor park center stores at Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park and other parks in Hawai'i and Samoa, congratulates new Sales Director Michelle Augello on her promotion. Augello will oversee the association’s three area managers who run visitor center park stores at six partner national parks. She will also spearhead the HPPA wholesale program and integrate with National Park Service colleagues. Proceeds from visitor center stores support national parks programs and projects in Hawai'i and Samoa. Augello began her tenure with HPPA in December 2009 as a sales and interpretation associate at the visitor center stores located at Haleakalā National Park on Maui. In 2016 she became the area manager of three HPPA stores located at Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park, and Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site, all on Hawaiʻi Island. Proceeds from visitor center stores support national parks programs and projects. Augello said, “I am honored for this opportunity to continue to serve HPPA, our park partners, and the community through the work that we do. I will work to ensure that HPPA is fulfilling its mission and is in alignment with its values, while helping to propel the organization forward well into the future.”

Wednesday, July 27, 2022

Ka‘ū News Briefs, Wednesday, July 26, 2022

EXPERIENCE VOLCANO HAWAI'I FESTIVAL is set for this Saturday and Sunday with free entertainment, numerous artists, local food producers and other vendors and community groups scheduled for venues throughout Volcano Village.

The third annual event starts with with the ʻŌhia Lehua Runs that include a half marathon on Saturday at 7 a.m. that takes runners along Wright Road and the countryside. At 10 a.m., experience an Estate White Tea Workshop at Volcano Winery followed by Christy Leaina'ala Lassiter Hawaiian Music. The music of Ola'a Trio is from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m a Kīlauea Lodge. A walk to historic homes take place from Kīlauea Lodge at noon on Saturday.

The day at Volcano Art Center begins with a Cultural Rainforest Walk & Tour with Kumu Ryan McCormack, followed by Hawaiian Hula Ke Olu Makani O Mauna Loa. Volcano Garden Arts events open with a Hawaiian Chant and the Art of Bonsai.

Among the presenters are: Linda Rowell Stevens, Lisa Maria Artistsa, Indigogo Designs, Ola’s Creations, Gabriele Diaz, Dude’s Fusion GrindZ, Glenwood Farm Girls, Marcel Alfons, Ibarra Art, Maile Designs, Bling Bling’s By The Bay, Zebewa Hawaii, Wynnwood Farms, Island Squeeze, Diane Hanzel, Dover’s Art, Elilynn Creations, Volcano Community Foundation, TLC Oils, Yurts Of Hawaii, 808 Craft & Gift Fairs, Laura Walker, Hangry Yeti Food, Solar Power Vibes, With Aloha, Graze & Gather Hawaii, Maui Splash Soaps, Rotary Of Volcano, Na Makua Designs, Ola Hawaiian Body Products, Scott Pincus Jewelry, Hawaiian Folk Art Dolls, Hawaii Pacific Parks Association, Kamano Arts, Sandy’s Sazon Food Truck VAC’s Yart Sale, Aunty Pons, Tuk Tuk Thai Food Truck, 2400 Fahrenheit and Akatsuka Orchid Gardens.

TRAINING TO BECOME NURSING ASSISTANTS is available through Hilo Medical Center, the sister facility to Kaʻū Hospital & Rural Health Clinic. The new paid training program for Nurse Aides to join acute units in early September welcomes candidates seeking "a fulfilling career in healthcare," says a statement from Hilo Medical Center. Benefits of becoming a nurses aid at Kaʻū, Hilo and Honoka'a Hospitals include: 13 paid holidays each year (14 during election years); 21 paid vacation days per year; 21 paid sick days per year; and medical, dental, vision, and prescription plans. Here are examples of health care jobs and their pay from the organization that operates Kaʻū, Hilo and Honoka'a hospitals and clinics:

Paid Nurses Aid training for Hilo, Kaʻū, and Honoka'a Hospitals is
offered through Hilo Medical Center. Photo from HMC

- Nurse Aide, Entry Level: Entry: $3,356 per month, Full Performance: $3,475 per month: https://pm.healthcaresource.com/cs/hhsc/#/job/2853
- Director of Nutrition & Food Service Operations, Starting at $75,000 and commensurate with experience: https://pm.healthcaresource.com/cs/hhsc/#/job/2936
- HR Specialist II-IV, $48,144-$56,304 per year ($4,012-$4,692 per month): https://pm.healthcaresource.com/cs/hhsc/#/job/2949
- Management Analyst II-IV, $48,144-$56,304 per year ($4,012-$4,692 per month): https://pm.healthcaresource.com/cs/hhsc/#/job/2611
- Transporter: $40,272 per year (3,356 per month): https://pm.healthcaresource.com/cs/hhsc/#/job/2908
- Dietary Aide: $21.89 per hour: https://pm.healthcaresource.com/cs/hhsc#/job/2651
- Kitchen Helper, $21.29 per hour: https://pm.healthcaresource.com/cs/hhsc#/job/2769
East Hawaii Health Clinics
- Cardiology Clinic – Medical Assistant, Entry: $43,080 ($3,590 per month, $20.71 per hour), Full Performance: $46,440 ($3,870 per month, $22.33 per hour): https://pm.healthcaresource.com/cs/hhsc#/job/29 46.

KAʻŪ MAY BE AFFECTED OVERNIGHT BY HAWAIIAN TELCOM'S continued restoration of services that were diminished by an unintentional break of a fiber line in Waikoloa. Hawaii Police Department reports that west Hawaiʻi residents and Kaʻū may experience issues using 9-1-1 or the police department’s non-emergency phone line Wednesday evening as Hawaiian Telcom continues to conduct repairs.
Repair work was scheduled to take place between 10 p.m. Wednesday, July 27, and 5 a.m., Thursday, July 28. Hawaiian Telcom landline customers and cellphone services in Kona, Kealakekua, Waikoloa, Kawaihae, and parts of Kaʻū may be affected during this time frame due to this work, says a statement from the company. Residents in need of assistance and unable to call 9-1-1 or the non-emergency line are advised to please go to the nearest police station or medical facility. Ka’u police station is located in Nā‘ālehu at 95-5355 Māmalahoa Highway. Kaʻū Hospital's 24/7 Emergency Room is located on Kamani Street, coming into town from Hwy 11.