Ka`u Calendar News Briefs Monday, Feb. 22, 2016

Ka`u High track & field team placed well at Hawai`i County Department of Parks & Recreation's age-group track meet Saturday. See more below. Photo from Coach Angie Miyashiro, at left

HAWAI`I’S MOSQUITO CONTROL has gotten worse rather than better, according to a Civil Beat story. Jessica Terrell reported that government efforts to control the insects that spread dengue fever, Zika and other diseases have been gutted. As of Friday, the total number of confirmed cases of dengue on Hawai`i Island was 259.

Sen. Josh Green

      David Morens, a senior scientific advisor at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, told Terrell that mosquito control is “the easiest thing for politicians to cut. If there’s no epidemic going on, then (politicians say) ‘Why do we have all these people sitting around doing nothing?’ They cut all the positions, and then sooner or later the epidemic comes back and they say, ‘Why aren’t you doing anything about this?’”

      Terrell said that, because of the government’s cyclical interest in mosquito control, the best chance for success in fighting mosquito-borne illness is to inform the public about how to keep mosquitoes under control.
      “The risk you have as a resident of Hawai`i is not some general thing in your community. It’s right in your own house, and people need to understand that,” Morens said.
      Ka`u’s state Sen. Josh Green told Johnson, “If we had gone overboard in December, then maybe this (Hawai`i Island dengue fever) outbreak would have stopped at 80 or 100 cases. I think the world is going to have to get used to going overboard on infectious diseases a little bit.” Green has criticized the state’s response to Hawai`i Island’s dengue fever outbreak and called for the state to enlist the National Guard in mosquito eradication.
      Information about mosquito control is available at health.hawaii.gov.
      See civilbeat.com.
      To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar.

KA`U STATE SEN. RUSSELL RUDERMAN’S bill regarding growing medical marijuana is advancing at the state Legislature. Senate Bill 2523 calls for medical marijuana licensees to be permitted to grow crops outdoors and in greenhouses and shade houses, as long as the operations aren’t visible from other properties.

      Ruderman’s bill is in response to a statute passed last year that calls for all production centers to be indoors only. Ruderman told Kirsten Johnson, of Hawai`i Tribune-Herald, that he thinks that is too restrictive. He said evidence shows marijuana plants grow differently under artificial lights, and indoor growing would raise operating costs and lead to higher prices.
      Johnson reported that Ruderman said plants should grow under natural sunlight instead of under artificial lamps. “Plants should be grown in sunlight, especially in the state which has the most,” Ruderman told Johnson.
      The Senate Committee on Commerce, Consumer Protection and Health passed the bill on Thursday after amending it to eliminate the allowance for outdoor growing.
      Progress of SB2523 and other bills is available at capitol.hawaii.gov.

      Ruderman will be in Ka`u a week from tomorrow, holding a talk story on Tuesday, March 1 at 6 p.m. to discuss the current legislative session and constituents’ concerns.

      See hawaiitribune-herald.com.

      To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar.

NONPROFIT ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOLAR advocacy groups joined together today to protest what they referred to as Hawaiian Electric’s opposition to renewable energy. HECO recently announced that it would not pursue plans for several renewable energy projects, including biomass and geothermal facilities on Hawai`i Island.

Earthjustice attorney Isaac Moriwake

      Earthjustice, Sierra Club, Blue Planet, Hawai`i PV Coalition, the Alliance for Solar Choice and Hawai`i Solar Energy Association joined together to raise concern with the direction of Hawai`i’s largest electrical utilities.
      “HECO claims to support clean energy,” said Marti Townsend, Director of the Sierra Club of Hawai`i. “So why isn’t HECO moving forward with real clean energy projects? How can a state-sponsored public utility flout the will of the people and the Legislature?”
      “HECO is heading in the wrong direction, seemingly under the influence of NextEra,” said Earthjustice attorney Isaac Moriwake. “We need a new kind of utility that puts people and the planet first, rather than profits.”
      “It’s time to change the system,” said Robert Harris, spokesperson for the Alliance for Solar Choice. “We need to look at options, such as putting another entity in charge of running the grid who doesn’t produce or sell power. HECO won’t change its stripes if it’s not in its financial interest to do so.”
      “Ninety-six percent of people in Hawai`i believe we should have more solar power, not less,” said Rick Reed, President of Hawai`i Solar Energy Association. “Anything that’s not meaningfully moving in that direction isn’t respecting what the people want: cheaper and cleaner power.”
      To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Donors receive an Own the Power T-shirt.

KA`U RESIDENTS CAN SUPPORT Hawai`i Island Energy Cooperative through an online fundraiser. HIEC was formed after a Florida-based NextEra Energy announced in late 2014 that it intended to buy Hawaiian Electric Co., of which Hawai`i Electric Light Co. is a subsidiary. “Our board decided that as the deal was being evaluated, all options should be put on the table –including, and especially, an energy cooperative for Hawai‘i Island,” the board said in a statement.

      Before HIEC can ask large investors for additional funding, it needs to raise $50,000 to prove that the community is on-board with a co-op. The money will be used for planning and public outreach. Actual purchase of the utility would be made with traditional financing sources.
      See https://www.crowdrise.com/hawaiiislandenergycoop/fundraiser/HiEnergyCoop.
      To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar.

WITH THE FEDERAL TAX-FILING deadline set for April 18, U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono urged Hawai`i families to utilize helpful tax credits, now that these important benefits have been made permanent by Congress. Representatives from the Taxpayer Advocate Service, the AARP Foundation Tax Aide program and Catholic Charities Hawai`i joined Hirono to promote tax benefits and free tax services available to seniors and low-income households.

Sen. Mazie Hirono

      Hirono reminded Hawai`i families to check their eligibility for the Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit, which were made permanent as part of the Senate’s FY2016 omnibus package signed into law in December.
      “As Hawai`i families start preparing their 2015 taxes, we want to make sure that they are taking advantage of every tax credit they’ve earned, which will reduce the amount of taxes eligible families will have to pay, or perhaps even provide a tax refund. This extra cash will allow families to purchase more food, pay rent or meet other basic needs,” Hirono said. “For years, I have supported expanding the EITC and CTC and making these tax benefits permanent. I am proud to have been an original cosponsor of legislation that made this a reality.”
      Individuals who received an Advanced Premium Tax Credit for their health insurance coverage in 2015 are also reminded that they must file a tax return to be eligible for the credit again next year.
      Free tax preparation help is available through the IRS and AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program. Certified volunteers provide free tax preparation and counseling for seniors and low-income families. To find Volunteer Income Tax Assistance and Tax Counseling for Elderly sites, call 1-888-227-7669 or see https://www.irs.gov/Individuals/Free-Tax-Return-Preparation-for-You-by-Volunteers.
      VITA sites where Hawai`i residents can receive free help in filing their taxes can be found at https://www.irs.gov/Individuals/Free-Tax-Return-Preparation-for-You-by-Volunteers.
      To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar.

KA`U HIGH TRACK & FIELD TEAM participated in Hawai`i County Department of Parks & Recreation’s age-group track meet on Saturday, Feb. 20. “We did very well,” Coach Angie Miyashiro reported. She said many teammates place first through sixth and that she was very proud of her well behaved group. Participants included Jayme Kaneshiro, Lyric Oliveros, Sepe Levi, Rosenlintha Ken, Amber Sugrue, Marilou Manantan, Rina Joseph, Anthony Ywasa, Nelson Boaz, Takios Paul, Cyrus McMasters, Seth McMasters, Kauila Acasio, Coach Angie Miyashiro and Assistant Coach Carma Hanshew.
      To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Learn about Kahuku's natural resources tomorrow.

NATURAL RESOURCES OF KAHUKU is the topic at After Dark in the Park tomorrow at 7 p.m. at Kilauea Visitor Center Auditorium in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. Wildlife Biologist Jonathan Faford and Botanist Sierra McDaniel discuss successes and challenges of natural resources management there.

      In 2003, the National Park Service acquired the 116,000-acre Kahuku Ranch, adding a rich collection of ecosystems, lava flows and high-elevation forests to Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. These lands were extensively modified by cattle ranching, logging and introduced plant and animal species, presenting a great challenge to natural resource managers tasked with protecting and restoring the native plant and animal communities there.
      $2 donations support park programs; park entrance fees apply.

HAWAI`I ISLAND HUMANE SOCIETY holds a public meeting on Thursday, March 24 at 6 p.m. at Ocean View Community Center. Representatives discuss programs and resources available to the community. Topics include animal welfare, how to report concerns and future plans on how resources will be made more accessible. A question-and-answer session follows.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

See kaucalendar.com/KauCalendar_February2016.pdf.

See kaucalendar.com/Directory2015.swf
and kaucalendar.com/Directory2015.pdf.

Ka`u Calendar News Briefs Sunday, Feb. 21, 2016

Tuesday's After Dark in the Park program focuses on Kahuku's natural resources. See more below.
Photo by Michael Szoenyi

THE GOOD LIFE ALLIANCE, a capacity-building organization based in Chicago, IL, earlier this month sparked passion in Ka`u youth leaders and helped develop programs serving community needs. The organization’s mission is to create and sustain change at a community level that will have national impact by unifying, equipping and building capacity in local leaders to solve long-standing social issues.
      “The time is ripe for youth in Ka`u to experience their beauty and brilliance with innovative opportunities,” Ka`u organizer Sandy Tran said.

Leina`ala Enos with Ka`u youth leaders.
Photo from Elijah Navarro

      David Rojas, Director of Business Development for The Good Life Alliance, facilitated two days of training focused on personal empowerment, interpersonal connections and development of creative programming. Rojas also co-lead soccer sessions for Ka`u High School’s team and helped five youth leaders acquire the U.S. Soccer National “F” License Coaching Certificate. On Friday, Feb. 12, Chloe Gan (16), David Pillete (18), Kaiminani Rapoza (17), Rayncin Salmo-Grace (18) and Augustina Sanchez (16) received certificates. They are creating a fun, activity-centered and age-appropriate environment for five- through eight-year-old players and have access to the U.S. Soccer Digital Coaching Center, a state-of-the-art online educational platform that includes U.S. Soccer Curriculum and hundreds of professional training sessions.

      “I am excited for kids to learn new things,” Gan said. “Our soccer programs can help younger kids become better at the sport. We can change how our current soccer program is at the school and change the reputation of this community.”
      Youth leaders Chaunalisa Velez (14) and Mark Galacio (15) also participated in the training. They developed programs that focused on the arts and environment. Galacio created a dance program, and Velez contributed ideas for creation of a community garden.
      “In our community, a lot of kids are not involved in good things, and I want to make a space where kids can enjoy themselves and not have to roam the streets,” Velez said.
      Rojas also built an alliance with local members to support the programs. Elijah Navarro and Winona Makuakane, of Hawai`i County Parks and Recreation, and Dolly Kailiawa, of Pahala Boys and Girls Club, have created spaces for leaders to run their programs, and Navarro is finding resources to better support development of the youth.
      Donations from `O Ka`u Kakou and Leina`ala Enos, of Queen Lili`uokalani Children’s Center and Trust Fund, made training possible. Some partners are working to bring The Good Life Alliance back to Ka`u to provide professional development for youth workers, educators and more young people in the community and other districts of Hawai`i Island.
      “Youth are the solution to many issues this community faces,” Tran said. “With the right supports in place, a spark of passion and a platform to use their voice, many Ka`u youth can illuminate and revolutionize the community and world. They truly deserve to be living ‘the good life.’”
      To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar.

A TASK FORCE OF EIGHT will review Hawai`i Department of Land & Natural Resource’s revocable permit process, permit status and recommend changes to ensure the process serves the public trust and provides transparency, inclusiveness and consistency.

      DLNR Chair Suzanne Case said the panel “will focus on the reasons for revocable permits versus leases or other dispositions, on opportunities for competition, the duration of revocable permit terms, pricing (including establishment of value and any reasons for discounted value) and a review of all current long-term revocable permits.”
      The task force is expected to identify best practices and articulate principles to be applied. It will also update the Board of Land and Natural Resources on its review process and submittal forms and propose specific revocable permits for reconsideration by the BLNR as appropriate. The panel may also recommend implementation of administrative rules that govern issuance of revocable permits. The committee is expected to report its findings and recommendations to the chairs of Hawai`i Senate Water, Land and Agriculture Committee and House Water and Land Committee by the end of April. New practices for revocable permits are expected to be in place by June 30.
      To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar.

AN EARTHQUAKE EARLIER this month highlighted one of Hawai`i’s most hazardous faults. Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists discuss it in the current issue of Volcano Watch.
      “On Friday, Feb. 12, at 9:23 a.m., a magnitude-4.1 earthquake occurred beneath Kilauea Volcano’s south flank,” the article states. “But this is probably not news to many Volcano Watch readers. Shaking from the earthquake was felt throughout the Island of Hawai`i, with reports to the USGS ‘Did you feel it?’ website at http://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/dyfi from as far away as Captain Cook and Holualoa on the west side of the island.
      “Felt earthquakes are not unusual. Kilauea’s south flank is one of the most seismically active areas in the United States, and Hawai`i Island residents are accustomed to feeling the occasional shake. However, Friday’s earthquake occurred on a fault that has also produced large and damaging events in past years, so it serves as a reminder that we should be prepared for stronger shaking in the future.

Hilina Pali is visible evidence of the steep Hilina Fault System.
An underground fault that has no visible surface expression
has produced several large earthquakes in the past
200 years. HVO Photo from Ingrid Johanson

      “The faults responsible for the majority of Kilauea south flank earthquakes are members of the Hilina Fault System. This system includes steep faults that form the cliffs lining Hawai`i’s southeast coast, of which the Hilina and Holei Pali are spectacular examples. Underneath these faults is another, and more uncommon, type of fault called a décollement. Analysis of Friday’s earthquake by USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory seismologists indicates that it likely occurred on this unique structure. 

      “Décollement, or detachment fault, refers to a nearly flat-lying fault that is often completely buried underground. At Kilauea, a décollement exists at the interface between the original seafloor and the overlying volcano. Sliding along this fault is driven partly by magma intruding into Kilauea’s East Rift Zone, which puts pressure on the south flank of the volcano and pushes it seaward. Fault slip is also driven by gravity. Repeated eruptions over-steepen the slopes of Kilauea, contributing to their instability and encouraging them to slide away from the island. 

      “Data from HVO’s continuous GPS monitoring network shows that most of the time Kilauea south flank motion occurs at a steady rate of six centimeters (2.5 inches) per year. This indicates stable sliding on the fault, referred to as creep, which accommodates motion without the shaking that accompanies earthquakes. In this way, creep is a ‘safe’ form of fault motion. 

      “However, Kilauea’s south flank décollement doesn’t only creep. It can also suddenly lurch forward in a matter of seconds, producing felt earthquakes. 

      “While the steep faults responsible for Hilina, Holei and other pali produce the majority of earthquakes on Kilauea’s south flank, the décollement is responsible for the strongest quakes. 

Feb. 12's 4.1-magnitude earthquake reminded Ka`u
residents to prepare for Hawai`i's next large
seismic event. Map from USGS/HVO

      “In 1989, slip on the décollement produced a magnitude-6.1 earthquake, which injured five people, destroyed five houses and was felt throughout the Island of Hawai`i. The strongest shaking was centered in the island’s lower Puna District, an area that has since seen rapid population growth. 

      “The 1975 magnitude-7.7 Kalapana earthquake was even more destructive. At the time, there were few structures near the epicenter, but severe shaking occurred throughout the Puna District and in Hilo, which experienced heavy damage, including bending of walls at Hilo Hospital. The earthquake also caused the coastline to suddenly drop by up to 3.5 meters (11 feet), generating a tsunami that resulted in the two fatalities associated with this event.
      “We live on an earthquake-prone island, and each small event (for example, Friday’s M-4.1 earthquake) is like a ping on our cell phones, reminding us: ‘you’ve got earthquakes!’ We should take these reminders as opportunities to get ourselves, our families and our homes prepared for Hawai`i’s next large event.
      “Before an earthquake, be sure that objects and furniture that could present falling hazards are well-secured to a shelf or wall. During an earthquake, drop, cover and hold on until the shaking stops. Afterward, check for injuries, be careful of broken glass and debris, and carefully inspect your surroundings for hazardous conditions, including fires and damaged structures.
      “For more information on earthquake awareness and preparedness, see these websites: USGS Earthquake Hazards Program (http://earthquake.usgs.gov/learn/preparedness.php) and Great Hawai`i ShakeOut (http://shakeout.org/hawaii/).”
      See hvo.wr.usgs.gov/volcanowatch.
      To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar.

TUESDAY’S AFTER DARK IN THE PARK program focuses on the natural resources of Kahuku. Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park botanist Sierra McDaniel and wildlife biologist Jon Faford discuss the natural treasures of the Kahuku Unit and the challenges of conserving native species that cling to life here.
      The program begins at 7 p.m. at Kilauea Visitor Center Auditorium. $2 donations support park programs; park entrance fees apply.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

See kaucalendar.com/Directory2015.swf
and kaucalendar.com/Directory2015.pdf.

See kaucalendar.com/KauCalendar_February2016.pdf.

Ka`u Calendar News Briefs Saturday, Feb. 20, 2016

Tours of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park's Puapo`o lava tube are available during the park's centennial.
See more below. NPS Photo by Stephen Geiger

MOSQUITO-BORNE ILLNESSES were topics of a roundtable hosted by U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard this week. Leading local, national and international experts engaged in dengue and Zika virus research, readiness and response joined the meeting. They talked about the most accurate, up-to-date information on the diseases, the current situation of the dengue outbreak on Hawai`i Island and discussed critical steps that need to be taken to achieve immediate and long-term solutions to protect Hawai`i’s people and economy.

Ka`u's state Sen. Josh Green joined U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard's
roundtable on mosquito-borne illnesses.
Photo from Office of Rep. Gabbard

      “The level of experience and expertise that gathered was great, as we discussed the current situation and next steps in the fight against mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue fever and the Zika virus,” Gabbard said. “The meeting was productive, and the information presented was candid and constructive. As we move forward, it’s important that these experts and their resources are tapped into as Hawai`i builds and executes its strategy to deal with the outbreak of dengue and the prevention of Zika. We don’t have time to sit around and wait – too much time has already been lost. A coordinated, aggressive response to eradicate these disease-laden mosquitoes and their breeding areas must occur now.”
      Earlier at the state Capitol, Gabbard joined the Legislature’s Big Island Caucus members. They shared challenges and frustrations expressed by their constituents, ideas on how to better serve residents affected by the island's dengue fever outbreak, discussed how to ensure resources are getting to where they are needed most and explored solutions to improve vector response, access to dengue fever testing and timeliness of receiving results. Gabbard brought up these ideas and concerns at the roundtable meeting.

      Yesterday, Hawai`i Department of Health reported one newly confirmed case of dengue fever, bringing the total to 257. Two individuals are potentially infectious to mosquitoes, which spread the disease through bites.
      To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar.

HAWAI`I PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION Chair Randy Iwase said his is disappointed with several of Hawai`i Electric Co.’s decisions to cancel plans for renewable energy projects. On Hawai`i Island, these recent events, which Iwase said may also work against goals of lowering electric rates for all customers and achieving 100 percent renewable energy by 2045, include HECO’s stated intention to terminate the agreement for a biomass project in Hamakua, closing of a prolonged and unsuccessful solicitation by Hawai`i Electric Light Company, Inc. for new geothermal generation in Puna and slow progress to approve and connect customers that have signed up for new rooftop solar under the grid-supply option.

On Hawai`i Island project rejected by HECO is a biomass plant
at Pepe`ekeo in Hamakua. Image from Hu Honua

      “Collectively, these initiatives represent a substantial portion of ongoing opportunities for the development of clean energy in Hawai`i and to lower electricity rates,” Iwase said. “The commission currently has open proceedings to review each of these matters and will thoroughly investigate the conduct of the HECO Companies. However, as Chair, I must share my concern that, collectively, these events send the wrong message to third party developers that desire to compete for clean energy business opportunities in Hawai`i and appear to represent a step backwards from the state’s clean energy goals. It is my belief that, to achieve these goals and benefit customers, we must encourage fair and timely processes for competitive procurement and interconnection of clean energy projects. The events referenced above on the whole do not appear to show movement towards a more competitive and efficient marketplace that will assist in the achievement of these goals. …

      “I am concerned that the HECO Companies have not offered alternative projects that could deliver such low-cost clean energy by the end of 2016 – the date when the solar projects would likely have been completed. Finally, the February 2015 letter agreement that I signed with the president and CEO of the HECO Companies stated in part that ‘the policy is that the HECO Companies have an affirmative duty to interconnect a potential customer pursuant to existing statutory requirements, commission orders and the utility’s tariff where that project does not affect circuit or system level security and reliability.’
      “In light of the HECO Companies’ commitments and the spirit of this letter agreement … and the slow progress associated with approving new grid-supply applications raises serious questions about the HECO Companies’ actions pursuant to the letter agreement. Upon the commission’s review of these matters, the commission will determine whether the actions of the HECO Companies were consistent with the interests of its customers and also consider any further action that may be necessary by the commission.”
      To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Puapo`o explorers must be prepared for close quarters
and low ceilings. NPS Photo by Stephen Geiger

VISITORS TO HAWAI`I VOLCANOES National Park during its centennial year can reserve an adventurous guided hike into a large lava tube formed by Kilauea volcano centuries ago.

      Starting March 2, the park and its nonprofit partner, Friends of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park, offer weekly guided hikes into Puapo`o lava tube by reservation only. The challenging adventure is limited to 12 people, ages seven and up. Reservations must be made at least one week in advance.
      Ranger-guided treks of Puapo`o last about three hours and cost $30 per adult and $25 for youth seven to 12. FHVNP will offer programs through its Hawai`i Volcanoes Institute. Proceeds support Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. For dates, information and reservations, see http://www.fhvnp.org.
      The challenging four-mile trek is not recommended for inexperienced or claustrophobic hikers. There is a 500-foot elevation change, and hikers must be able to climb down a 15-foot ladder into the lava tube, scramble up and over large rocks and walk on uneven terrain with minimal light. Hikers will also have to walk in a crouched position for about 25 feet under a low ceiling. A helmet with headlamp, flashlight and gloves are provided.
      All other caves and lava tubes in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park are closed to the public due to the sensitive and fragile nature of cave resources, except Nahuku (Thurston Lava Tube) and the new guided tours of Puapo`o. Puapo`o is nearly as large as Nahuku, and its magnificent lava formations include lavacicles, driblet spires, lava lines and flow ripples. These fascinating features make Puapo`o one of the most ornate lava tubes in Hawai`i, and it has remained largely intact because access is restricted. The entrance to the cave is cloaked in native rainforest, and Hawaiian birds including `apapane, `oma`o, and `amakihi can be seen and heard.
      “We asked our publics how they’d like to celebrate the park’s centennial anniversary, and the resounding answer was to bring back an opportunity to explore Puapo`o lava tube,” Park Superintendent Cindy Orlando said. “With our Friends’ group, we are able to offer visitors an unparalleled adventure into the depths of Kilauea volcano during our 100th anniversary.”
      For more information on park centennial events, see nps.gov/havo/getinvolved/100th-anniversary.htm.
      To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar.

KA`U RESIDENTS CAN LEARN about the People & Lands of Kahuku tomorrow. This guided, 2.5-mile, moderately difficult hike over rugged terrain focuses on the Kahuku Unit of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park’s human history. The three-hour program begins at 9:30 a.m.
      See nps.gov/havo.

Spaghetti dinner is a week from today.

PLAN TODAY FOR NEXT SATURDAY’S full schedule of events.
      Ocean Sanctuary Count of humpback whales takes place from 8 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. at various locations. Participants record whale sightings and activity on the second of three counts held the last Saturdays of January through March. Registration is required at hawaiihumpbackwhale.noaa.gov.
      Programs at Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park’s Kahuku Unit feature `ohi`a lehua and a forested pit crater. Participants learn about the vital role of `ohi`a lehua in native forests during a one-hour program beginning at 9:30 a.m. From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., botanist Sierra McDaniel and biologist Jon Faford lead a moderate, 2.4-mile roundtrip hike to a crater that naturally protects rare and endangered plant species.
      Learn about native dryland plants from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Discovery Harbour Community Hall. Ho`omalu Ka`u’s free second workshop focuses on propagation techniques and tips on landscaping with native plants. Register at 929-8526 or hoomalukau@gmail.com.
      `O Ka`u Kakou's fundraiser for Ka`u Hospital begins at 4 p.m. and continues to 7 p.m. at Na`alehu Community Center. The event features spaghetti dinner, a silent auction and bake and craft sales. To donate to the auction, call Ursula D’Angelo at 896-2624. To buy $10 dinner tickets, call Nadine Ebert at 938-5124.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

See kaucalendar.com/KauCalendar_February2016.pdf.

See kaucalendar.com/Directory2015.swf
and kaucalendar.com/Directory2015.pdf.