Kaʻū News Briefs, Tuesday, May 28, 2019

Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary is seeking applicants for its advisory council.
Photo from NOAA

ADVISORY COUNCIL MEMBERS FOR THE HAWAIIAN ISLANDS HUMPBACK Whale National Marine Sanctuary are sought. The sanctuary will review applications to represent the Native Hawaiian community, Ocean Recreation, Tourism and Commercial Shipping. It also seeks  a Molokaʻi Island Representative and an alternative volunteer to represent Ocean Recreation. The council ensures public participation in sanctuary matters and provides advice to sanctuary management. The sanctuary conducts the annual whale count in whats off Kaʻū and elsewhere along Hawaiʻi's coasts. with many educational, research, and protection programs.

     Nancy Daschbach, sanctuary acting-superintendent, said, "The members of our sanctuary advisory council represent extremely important elements of our community. We rely on their input, experience, and expertise to assist us in making informed and timely decisions on how best to protect and conserve our humpback whales, and important cultural and natural resources."
     Candidates are selected based on their expertise and experience in relation to the seat for which they are applying, community and professional affiliations, and views regarding the protection and
management of marine resources. Applicants who are chosen as primary or alternate members should expect to serve a three-year term.
     Applications are due by Friday, June 21. To receive an application kit, or for further information, contact Cindy Among-Serrao at Cindy.Among-Serrao@noaa.gov or 808-725-5923, or visit the sanctuary website at hawaiihumpbackwhale.noaa.gov/
council/council_app_accepting.html.
     The sanctuary, administered by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Office of National Marine Sanctuaries and the state Department of Land and Natural Resources, protects humpback whales and their habitat in Hawaiian waters, where they migrate each winter to mate, calve, and nurse their young.
     A statement from NOAA says its mission is to understand and predict changes in the Earth's environment, from the depths of the ocean to the surface of the sun, and to conserve and manage our coastal and marine resources. See Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and other social media channels for National Marine Sanctuaries.

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.

"MARSHALLESE FACE DIFFICULTIES obtaining the identification they need to get a job, go to school, or travel," according to Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, who charged in a letter today that the federal Department of Homeland Security rules "contradict existing law, and must immediately be corrected."
     The Marshallese and others migrants covered by the Compact of Freely Associated States face "an urgent situation impacting thousands of people who have legally come to the United States and are suffering the consequences of this bureaucratic mishap," she wrote in a letter co-signed by colleagues in Congress. She said Department of Homeland Security administrative rules place undue constraints of Compact of Freely Associated States migrants seeking to obtain REAL IDs and that agreements the United States made through the Compact of Free Association are being undermined by current Department of Homeland Security rules.

     Gabbard pointed to bill, H.R. 3398, which was previously signed into law and designed to correct an "egregious oversight" which prevented citizens of the Freely Associated States from obtaining anything more than a temporary ID or driver's license.
     Said Alaska Congressman Don Young, who co-authored the bill with Gabbard, "As a practical matter, this can hurt their ability to maintain long-term employment or engage in other lawful activities where they legally reside." He said that recent guidance put into place by the Department of Homeland Security has imposed additional burdens on these citizens. "Free Associated States citizens who reside here are proud to call the United States and its territories home, and it is my hope that DHS will work with us to find a long-term solution for them in line with the intent of Congress."

     Said Congressman Ed Case, "Our Compacts of Free Association with the Federated States of Micronesia, and the Republics of Palau and the Marshall Islands, are of key importance to all of our countries. The Compacts permit citizens of the Freely Associated States to live and work in our country with a valid unexpired passport and documentation that they entered under the Compacts. It is directly contrary to the Compacts to impose onerous additional requirements that make it very difficult for them to access the basics of everyday life like driving and working."

     The April 2019 DHS guidance requires COFA migrants to produce documents not required by their migration status in order to obtain their REAL IDs. REAL IDs are necessary for a range of things which have significant impact on the day-to-day lives of individuals, including employment, travel, participation in federal programs, and entry to federal buildings.
     For more on the Marshallese, see Monday's Kaʻū News Briefs.

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.

TRAINING TO GROW FOOD SAFELY is a workshop for fruit and vegetable growers on Friday, May 31 from 8 a.m to 4:30 p.m. at the Komohana Research & Extension Center in Hilo. The full day will cover seven hours of instruction in Produce Safety; Worker Health; Hygiene and Training; Soil Amendments; Wildlife, Domesticated Animals and Land Use; Agricultural Water; Postharvest
Handling and Sanitation; and How to Develop a Farm Food Safety Plan.
     The training helps to meet federal food safety requirements. Cost is $150, with some scholarships available. It is sponsored by the University of Hawaiʻi Cooperative Extension and The Kohala Center, as well as County of Hawaiʻi.

See public Kaʻū events, meetings, entertainment. 

See Kaʻū exercise, meditation, daily, and weekly events. 

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

and facebook.com/kaucalendar.

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

WEDNESDAY, MAY 29

Kōkua Kupuna Project, Wednesday, May 29 – last Wednesday, monthly – 9 a.m. – 11 a.m., St. Jude's Episcopal Church, Ocean View. Seniors 60 years and older encouraged to attend, ask questions, and inquire about services offered through Legal Aid Society of Hawai‘i – referral required, 961-8626 for free legal services. Under 60, call 1-800-499-4302. More info: tahisha.despontes@legalaidhawaii.org, 329-3910 ext. 925. legalaidhawaii.org

THURSDAY, MAY 30
Summer Keiki Learn-to-Swim Registration, Thursday, May 30, and Friday, May 31, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m., Pāhala Swimming Pool, Ka‘ū High & Pāhala Elementary School Campus. $15 per session; cash or check accepted. Payable to County Director of Finance. 928-8177, hawaiicounty.gov/pr-aquatics

Volcano Friends Feeding Friends, Thursday, May 30, 4 p.m. – 6 p.m., Cooper Center, Volcano Village. Free community dinner for all. Additional packaged goods to take home for those in need. Donations and volunteers encouraged. 967-7800, thecoopercenter.org

FRIDAY, MAY 31
Coffee Talk at Kahuku, Roosevelt's Tree Army: Civilian Conservation Corps in Hawai‘i, Friday, May 31, 9:30 a.m. – 11 a.m., Kahuku Unit Visitor Contact Station. Talk story with Dr. Jadelyn Moniz Nakamura. "Bring your own cuppa." Free. nps.gov/havo

SATURDAY, JUNE 1
Summer Reading Program: A Universe of Stories, June 1-July 13, all Hawai‘i Public Libraries including Nā‘ālehu and Pāhala. Starting June 1, sign-in and register at librarieshawaii.beanstack.org for free reading rewards, activities and programs for all ages and a chance to win a round trip for Four to anywhere Alaska Airlines flies.

Edible Wild Plants: A Hands-On Foray for Foragers and Foodies with Zach Mermel of Ola Design Group, Saturday, June 1, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Volcano Art Center. $30/VAC member, $40/non-member, plus $15 transportation fee. Class size limited. Register early. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

Lā‘au Lapa‘āu Workshop, Saturday, June 1, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Kaʻū District Gym. Free workshop open to the public from Hui Mālama Ola Nā ‘Ōiwi Traditional Health team. 969-9220, hmono.org

Keiki Science Class, Saturday, June 1 – 1st Saturday, monthly – 11a.m. to noon, Ace Hardware Stores islandwide; Nā‘ālehu, 929-9030 and Ocean View, 929-7315. Free. acehardware.com

Andy McKee Plays in Volcano at Kīlauea Military Camp's Kīlauea Theater, Saturday, June 1. Show begins at 7:45 p.m. A Park entrance fee may apply if arriving before 7:30 p.m. McKee is an acoustic guitar "virtuoso, a master practitioner" of folk, blues, bluegrass, and other musical genres. Information or purchase tickets, $48, at (808) 896-4845, kilaueamilitarycamp.com, or bluesbearhawaii.com.

SUNDAY, JUNE 2
Ham Radio Potluck Picnic, Sunday, June 2 – 1st Sunday, monthly – noon-2p.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, JUNE 3
Hawai‘i County Council Mtgs., Monday, June 3 (Committees), Tuesday, June 4 (Council), Hilo. Ka‘ū residents can participate via videoconferencing at Nā‘ālehu State Office Building. Agendas at hawaiicounty.gov.

LIHEAP Energy Assistance Program Applications, Monday, June 3, 10, 17, or 24, Tuesday, June 4, 11, 18 or 25, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Green Room, Ocean View Community Center. See hceoc.net/programs/energy for full list of requirements and to download forms.

Mr. Kneel Public Speaker and Professional Beatboxer, Monday, June 3, 2:30 p.m., Pāhala Public and School Library. Features math, reading, Dr. Seuss, and family friendly humor. 928-2015

Ocean View Volunteer Fire Department Mtg., Monday, June 3 and July 1, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

TUESDAY, JUNE 4
Ka‘ū Coffee Growers Mtg., Tuesday, June 4, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., Pāhala Community Center.

ONGOING

Summer Programs for Kaʻū High & Pāhala Elementary registrations are open.
     Uplink All-Stars runs Friday, June 7 through Friday, June 28 for students in grades 6, 7, and 8.
     Algebra camp is also open to students in grades 6, 7, and 8 from Monday, June 10 through Friday, June 21.

     Early College, for high school students, runs from Wednesday, June 12 through Thursday, July 11.

     All three programs require registration by calling 313-4100.

     Seamless Summer Program, open to all people under age 18, no registration required, offers free breakfast from 7:30 a.m. to 8 a.m., and free lunch from 11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., on weekdays , June 7 through July 11, except June 11 and July 4, in the school cafeteria.

Exhibit – Hulihia, A Complete Change: The Hawai‘i Nei Invitational Exhibition, runs through Sunday, June 16, daily, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Volcano Art Center Gallery. Multi-media exhibition of seven artists. Free; National Park entrance fees may apply. 967-7565, volcanoartcenter.org

Nā‘ālehu Independence Day Parade Sign-Up Open until Thursday, June 20. Parade happens Saturday, June 29 at 11 a.m. The parade route begins at the Nāʻālehu Elementary School and ends at the Nāʻālehu Hongwanji Mission. To participate, call Debra McIntosh, 929-9872.

Full-Time Teaching Assistant Sought by Tūtū & Me to implement curriculum for caregivers and keiki in Tūtū & Me Traveling Preschool in Kaʻū. Competitive salary and benefits package, including medical, dental, drug, and vision; flexible spending plan; 403b retirement plan; vacation, sick days, and 14 paid days off; and more.

     Minimum requirement is a high school diploma. Early Childhood Education, related coursework, and/or experience working children preferred. For more, visit pidf.org/about/careers. Apply by emailing resume and cover letter to hr@pidfoundation.org or fax to 808-440-6619.

Hi-Employment Seeks Student Employees to work in a macadamia nut orchard on weekends and holidays. Duties include hand-harvesting macadamia nuts, filling and transporting nut bag and buckets, loading 25-plus pound bags into truck beds, and possible clearing of brush and branches. Applicants must be at least 15 years old, have a work permit, two forms of ID, and transportation to "Panaʻewa Stretch." Call for more details, 238-3741, hi-employment.com.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

Kaʻū News Briefs, Monday, May 27, 2019

Dr. Neal Palafox explains the irony of Micronesians' fame as an ocean going people, who wind up in poverty and 

poor health in Hawaiʻi. He spoke at the annual Kaʻū Rural Health Community Association meeting in Pāhala.
 Photo by Julia Neal

THE HEALTH AND ECONOMIC WELL BEING OF MICRONESIANS and other South Pacific islanders who have moved to Hawaiʻi was the focus of the 21st annual Kaʻū Rural Health Community Association meeting last Friday at Pāhala Community Center.

     Keynote speaker was Neal Palafox, MD, MPH, a Professor at University of Hawaiʻi John A. Burns School of Medicine's Department of Family Medicine & Community Health. He spent decades studying and working with Pacific Islanders to improve their health and economic situation.
     Palafox talked about the strategic importance of numerous South Pacific islands to the U.S. military after World War II, when more than a decade of nuclear bomb testing was conducted in the islands. After the nuclear testing stopped, the U.S. government promised to help with economic development, health, and education for the islanders.
     The U.S. maintains large military bases in the Micronesia and views them as important to the future, especially with Chinese government and companies making inroads into the Pacific. In exchange for keeping the bases, and for mitigation for the nuclear testing that made some islands uninhabitable, the U.S. allows residents of many of the islands to come to this country without a passport or visa, to live, work, and gain an education here. At first, the federal government paid for their health care, then the states chipped in as the federal government withdrew some of its support.

Dr. Neal Palafox and Marshallese leader from Ocean View, Johnathan Jackson. 

Photo by Julia Neal

     Some of the islanders went to places like Arkansas, where they were hired by large companies like Tysons Foods and became factory workers. In Arkansas, the Marshallese, in particular have done well there in terms of being lifted out of poverty, though far away from their island culture of subsistence farming and fishing.

     On Hawaiʻi Island, many of the families live remotely. Ocean View is one place where they found affordable land to create housing for extended families. The children go to  Schools. Some of the parents and grandparents work picking Kaʻū Coffee.

     One problem brought up in the meeting is the assimilation of the children into the education system. With poor English skills upon arrival, they need more support through speakers of their own dialects, several attendees stated. Sometimes they are bullied and feel discrimination from other students and even teachers, Palafox said. He said that throughout Hawaiʻi there are many Micronesian jokes, online insults such as "Micronesian Cockroaches Go Home." People ask "How do we get them to go elsewhere?" and say,  "Send these people a message," and "Stop them from coming." These islanders are often blamed for being the biggest cause of homelessness in Hawaiʻi, Palafox said.

Physician Richard Creagan takes about his experience working 

with the Marshallese in the Peace Corps. Photo by Julia Neal

     He noted that one difference between Micronesians here and other immigrants is that most other immigrants have to apply for a visa and are sponsored by families already here.  They often arrive with a job waiting for them. With the Pacific Islanders who have free entry to the U.S., "we are getting the entire demographic," the middle class and the poor, the skilled and unskilled, said Palafox, "with their need for more education, employment training, health care, and assistance with assimilation.

     Palafox introduced the idea of Cultural Safety with mediating variables to help the islanders. Among them are self-determination, social and restorative justice, equity, negotiated partnership, transparency, reciprocity, accountability, and resilience.

     Johnathan Jackson, one of the leaders of the Marshallese in Ocean View, talked about the attempt to maintain some of the traditional culture while living here. The Micronesians, for example, are well regarded as master navigators in the South Pacific. It is ironic that they would have a hard time being accepted here.

     Palafax said that health statistics are bleak among the islanders before and after they come here. He said they are affected by the worst of both worlds: cholera, dengue fever and tuberculosis in their less developed tropical home islands, and the poor diet of modern society with more diabetes, stroke, and cancer.

     Jesse Marques, founder of Kaʻū Rural Health Community Association, and physician Richard Creagan, who represents Ocean View in the state House of Representatives and worked in the Peace Corps in the Marshall Islands, vowed to work more with the Marshallese and other islanders who have moved here.

     See more on Kaʻū Rural Health Community Association at krhcai.com.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, as she sends off Hawaiʻi Army National Guard troops to Afghanistan.
She serves in the same unit, deployed twice to the Middle East. Photo from Tulsi Gabbard

MEMORIAL DAY IN KAʻŪ included ceremonies at Kilauea Military Camp and messages from two military reserve public officials, both running for national office. Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard's campaign team for U.S. president released a statement about her recent farewell to nearly 200 soldiers from the Hawaiʻi Army National Guard's 1st Battalion, 487th Field Artillery Regiment. It is the same unit she deployed with to the Middle East. These soldiers headed to Afghanistan, and for  many, it is their third or fourth deployment.

     As a soldier for over 16 years, Gabbard served in Iraq in 2005 in a medical unit "where she was confronted everyday by the high human cost of war. On Memorial Day, we honor those who have paid the ultimate price in service to their country, and those who continue to put their lives on the line for our country every day. As Tulsi reminds us, it's the little things that don't make the headlines that also take a toll – like missing your child's first steps, seeing them off to school, or teaching them how to drive."

State Sen. Kai Kalele, who serves in the Air National Guard, putting
a flag on the grave of a veteran. Photo from Kai Kahele

     The statement says that Gabbard is "running for president to bring an end to more counterproductive regime change wars, the new cold war, and arms race. Our servicemen and women don't need lip service from warmongering politicians and media pundits who feign concern while simultaneously fomenting conflicts around the globe. These conflicts threaten to send our men and women in uniform into harm's way for no other purpose than power and profit. The true way to honor our troops who have and continue to put their lives on the line for our country is to work to prevent unnecessary costly wars and resolve that war should only be waged as a very last resort to keep the American people safe."

     State Sen. Kai Kahele, who is running to take Gabbard's place in the U.S. House of Representatives, issued a statement saying, "This Memorial Day, we honor and remember the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces who have made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our freedom and our nation. We remember their courage, their strength, and their love of country.

     "Just as in years gone past, we decorate each memorial, each gravesite with a flag, flowers, or a lei. We lower our flags to half staff and we pay tribute to those who gave their all in service to a grateful nation. The observance of their names, the acknowledgment of their contribution during their shortened lives, and the recognition of their sacrifice is the highest honor we can give them.

     "When we think about them, for a moment they live again, in our memories, in our imagination, and our hearts while stirring up our pride, our patriotism, and maybe a tear. As their extraordinary courage and sacrifice are etched in our memories, they live on forever."

     Kīlauea Military Camp held Memorial Day ceremonies followed by a Memorial Day Buffet. The keynote speaker was Lt. Col. Loreto Borce, Jr., commander of Pōhakuloa Training Area.

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.

See public Kaʻū events, meetings, entertainment. 

See Kaʻū exercise, meditation, daily, and weekly events. 

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

and facebook.com/kaucalendar.

JUST ANNOUNCED

THE SKY IS FULL OF STORIES with James McCarthy happens Friday, June 28, 1:30 p.m., at Nāʻālehu Public Library, 95-5669 Mamalahoa Hwy. The free, 45 minute program, suitable for all ages, features McCarthy telling "sky stories from myths to science." McCarthy is a founding storyteller of Honolulu Zoo's Moonlight Tours and Snooze in the Zoo, which "bring to life the stories that are found in the skies." Young children must be accompanied by a parent or adult caregiver. Contact 939-2442 for more.

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

SUNDAY, MAY 26

ʻO Kaʻū Kākou Public Update on Senior Housing happens Sunday, May 26, 4 p.m. okaukakou.org

MONDAY, MAY 27
Memorial Day Ceremony, Monday, May 27, 3 p.m., Front Lawn, Kīlauea Military Camp. Keynote speaker: Lt. Col. Loreto Borce, Jr., Commander of Pohakuloa Training Area. Open to public. In case of rain ceremony will be moved indoors. Park entrance fees apply. 967-8371, kilaueamilitarycamp.com

Memorial Day Buffet, Monday, May 27, 4 p.m. – 7 p.m., Crater Rim Café, Kīlauea Military Camp. BBQ Pork Ribs, Local Styles Fried Chicken, Smoked Vegetable Kabobs, salads and more. $20.95/Adults, $11.95/Child (ages 6-11). No reservations required. Open to all authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. 967-8356, kilaueamilitarycamp.com

TUESDAY, MAY 28
HOVE Road Maintenance Board Mtg., Tuesday, May 28, 10 a.m., HOVE Road Maintenance office. hoveroad.com, 929-9910, gm@hoveroad.com

Ka‘ū Food Pantry, Tuesday, May 28, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., St. Jude's Episcopal Church in Ocean View. Volunteers welcome. Dave Breskin, 319-8333

After Dark in the Park – Hawai‘i's Landfill Crisis: From Hopeless to Hopeful, Tuesday, May 28, 7 p.m., Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium. Special guest speakers Lori Kahikina, P.E. Director, Department of Environmental Services and Jim Howe, Emergency Services Director present sobering look at Hawaiʻi’s future and a call to action that provides hope while separating myth from reality. Free; park entrance fees apply. 985-6011, nps.gov/havo

WEDNESDAY, MAY 29
Kōkua Kupuna Project, Wednesday, May 29 – last Wednesday, monthly – 9 a.m. – 11 a.m., St. Jude's Episcopal Church, Ocean View. Seniors 60 years and older encouraged to attend, ask questions, and inquire about services offered through Legal Aid Society of Hawai‘i – referral required, 961-8626 for free legal services. Under 60, call 1-800-499-4302. More info: tahisha.despontes@legalaidhawaii.org, 329-3910 ext. 925. legalaidhawaii.org

THURSDAY, MAY 30
Summer Keiki Learn-to-Swim Registration, Thursday, May 30, and Friday, May 31, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m., Pāhala Swimming Pool, Ka‘ū High & Pāhala Elementary School Campus. $15 per session; cash or check accepted. Payable to County Director of Finance. 928-8177, hawaiicounty.gov/pr-aquatics

Volcano Friends Feeding Friends, Thursday, May 30, 4 p.m. – 6 p.m., Cooper Center, Volcano Village. Free community dinner for all. Additional packaged goods to take home for those in need. Donations and volunteers encouraged. 967-7800, thecoopercenter.org

FRIDAY, MAY 31
Coffee Talk at Kahuku, Roosevelt's Tree Army: Civilian Conservation Corps in Hawai‘i, Friday, May 31, 9:30 a.m. – 11 a.m., Kahuku Unit Visitor Contact Station. Talk story with Dr. Jadelyn Moniz Nakamura. "Bring your own cuppa." Free. nps.gov/havo

SATURDAY, JUNE 1
Summer Reading Program: A Universe of Stories, June 1-July 13, all Hawai‘i Public Libraries including Nā‘ālehu and Pāhala. Starting June 1, sign-in and register at librarieshawaii.beanstack.org for free reading rewards, activities and programs for all ages and a chance to win a round trip for Four to anywhere Alaska Airlines flies.

Edible Wild Plants: A Hands-On Foray for Foragers and Foodies with Zach Mermel of Ola Design Group, Saturday, June 1, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Volcano Art Center. $30/VAC member, $40/non-member, plus $15 transportation fee. Class size limited. Register early. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

Lā‘au Lapa‘āu Workshop, Saturday, June 1, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Kaʻū District Gym. Free workshop open to the public from Hui Mālama Ola Nā ‘Ōiwi Traditional Health team. 969-9220, hmono.org

Keiki Science Class, Saturday, June 1 – 1st Saturday, monthly – 11a.m. to noon, Ace Hardware Stores islandwide; Nā‘ālehu, 929-9030 and Ocean View, 929-7315. Free. acehardware.com

Andy McKee Plays in Volcano at Kīlauea Military Camp's Kīlauea Theater, Saturday, June 1. Show begins at 7:45 p.m. A Park entrance fee may apply if arriving before 7:30 p.m. McKee is an acoustic guitar "virtuoso, a master practitioner" of folk, blues, bluegrass, and other musical genres. Information or purchase tickets, $48, at (808) 896-4845, kilaueamilitarycamp.com, or bluesbearhawaii.com.

SUNDAY, JUNE 2
Ham Radio Potluck Picnic, Sunday, June 2 – 1st Sunday, monthly – noon-2p.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, JUNE 3
Hawai‘i County Council Mtgs., Monday, June 3 (Committees), Tuesday, June 4 (Council), Hilo. Ka‘ū residents can participate via videoconferencing at Nā‘ālehu State Office Building. Agendas at hawaiicounty.gov.

LIHEAP Energy Assistance Program Applications, Monday, June 3, 10, 17, or 24, Tuesday, June 4, 11, 18 or 25, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Green Room, Ocean View Community Center. See hceoc.net/programs/energy for full list of requirements and to download forms.

Mr. Kneel Public Speaker and Professional Beatboxer, Monday, June 3, 2:30 p.m., Pāhala Public and School Library. Features math, reading, Dr. Seuss, and family friendly humor. 928-2015

Ocean View Volunteer Fire Department Mtg., Monday, June 3 and July 1, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

ONGOING

Summer Programs for Kaʻū High & Pāhala Elementary registrations are open.
     Uplink All-Stars runs Friday, June 7 through Friday, June 28 for students in grades 6, 7, and 8.
     Algebra camp is also open to students in grades 6, 7, and 8 from Monday, June 10 through Friday, June 21.

     Early College, for high school students, runs from Wednesday, June 12 through Thursday, July 11.

     All three programs require registration by calling 313-4100.

     Seamless Summer Program, open to all people under age 18, no registration required, offers free breakfast from 7:30 a.m. to 8 a.m., and free lunch from 11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., on weekdays in the school cafeteria.

Exhibit – Hulihia, A Complete Change: The Hawai‘i Nei Invitational Exhibition, runs through Sunday, June 16, daily, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Volcano Art Center Gallery. Multi-media exhibition of seven artists. Free; National Park entrance fees may apply. 967-7565, volcanoartcenter.org

Nā‘ālehu Independence Day Parade Sign-Up Open until Thursday, June 20. Parade happens Saturday, June 29 at 11 a.m. The parade route begins at the Nāʻālehu Elementary School and ends at the Nāʻālehu Hongwanji Mission. To participate, call Debra McIntosh, 929-9872.

Full-Time Teaching Assistant Sought by Tūtū & Me to implement curriculum for caregivers and keiki in Tūtū & Me Traveling Preschool in Kaʻū. Competitive salary and benefits package, including medical, dental, drug, and vision; flexible spending plan; 403b retirement plan; vacation, sick days, and 14 paid days off; and more.

     Minimum requirement is a high school diploma. Early Childhood Education, related coursework, and/or experience working children preferred. For more, visit pidf.org/about/careers. Apply by emailing resume and cover letter to hr@pidfoundation.org or fax to 808-440-6619.

Hi-Employment Seeks Student Employees to work in a macadamia nut orchard on weekends and holidays. Duties include hand-harvesting macadamia nuts, filling and transporting nut bag and buckets, loading 25-plus pound bags into truck beds, and possible clearing of brush and branches. Applicants must be at least 15 years old, have a work permit, two forms of ID, and transportation to "Panaʻewa Stretch." Call for more details, 238-3741, hi-employment.com.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

Kaʻū News Briefs, Sunday, May 26, 2019

Ua Alencastre-Galimba, Valedictorian of Kamehameha Schools Hawaiʻi Island Class of 2019, drew tears, smiles, and laughter from her classmates as she thanked mom for helping her to become ready for her future. Ua attended Volcano School of Arts & Sciences and will attend Harvard University this fall. Image from Kamehameha commencement film

UA ALENCASTRE-GALIMBA,VALEDICTORIAN OF KAMEHAMEHA SCHOOLS HAWAIʻI ISLAND CLASS OF 2019, drew laughter, smiles, and tears from her classmates as she gave her commencement talk on Saturday. Daughter of Kaʻū rancher Michelle Galimba and the late Timothy Alencastre, Ua grew up on a remote ranch between Nāʻālehu and Pāhala, surrounded by horses, cattle, ranch dogs, and all the work that comes with them. She participated in 4H and the family business of raising grass fed Kuahiwi Ranch Natural Beef cattle.
     Throughout her upbringing, Ua was often a partner in Michelle's business and community life, from attending public meetings to cattle roundups, branding, and sales. She studied at Volcano School of Arts & Sciences, followed by Kamehameha, both located more than an hour away from the family home. Her next school is an ocean and a continent away at Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
     Ua thanked the Kamehameha faculty, staff, and administrators "for having the passion to teach my class and I the lessons that helped us to grow as learners and as people. You all have helped to instill the drive in my class that will allow us to go far in life." She said mahalo to family and friends for being "a guiding force during this time of great change for all of us."

A younger Ua with her mother Michelle Galimba, representing the

ranching community at Kaʻū Plantation Days at Pāhala Plantation

House. Photo by Julia Neal

     She addressed the class as Kamakaokaniuhi - eye of the tiger shark - a name given to the students by their teachers to mean the courage to seek out challenges.
     Ua told classmates, "I am so proud of each and every one of you. We made it. In just a few moments we become alumni. Gone are the days of fried rice for breakfast on Wednesdays. Gone are the days of getting to school, moments after the bell," a cup of coffee "in hand and just making it to morning oli. But most importantly, gone are the days of seeing friends that have become family."

     Ua urged her fellow graduating seniors to "Let it sink in that this is the end of something important in your life. Whether you look fondly on your experience with school, this is still a significant part of your life that you should be proud of." She said her class was often described as a class that "does not sweat the small stuff, a class that that goes with the flow... We don't respond to being pressured by deadlines or to the idea that we should take something seriously, just because we are told it is important. We are very stubborn in that way, you see. But here's the thing about us, Kamakaokaniuhi, when we decide to do something, when we decide to give something our all, we do so because we believe it is important to us, because we want to. We do not allow anyone to tell us how to think or feel, which I think makes us pretty special. Now my hope is that, as we go out into the world, we do not allow this part of us to fade."

     She said senior year has been filled with a series of lasts - "last Founders Day... last Aloha Wear Day, the list goes on and on..." But now "it's time for us to begin a new journey that will be filled with a series of firsts: First time living on your own, first time being the new kids at school, and many other amazing and new experiences. But, you know, don't sweat it. Instead, be excited. This is this time for you to make your mark. If you want to make your millions, do it. If you want to cure cancer, do it; or if you want to make a career of spending every single day at the beach, do that too. Whatever it is, as long as you are determined enough, I believe you can make it happen."

Ua Alencastre-Galimba addresses her Kamehameha School Hawaiʻi Island, Class of 2019. Photo from commencement video

     Ua gave credit to her family in a way that appeared to bring out the same feelings from other students as they wiped away tears. "For me I've been able to make things happen because of the support of one special person that I would like to thank tonight. To my mom: Thank you for supporting me through it all. She is the reason I am here. She is the reason that I am headed where I am headed in life. ... I can not take sole credit for my achievement. Even though the late nights of studying were all me, she is the one who got me up at 4:30 the next morning half asleep to catch the bus to school. And during some of the hardest times in my life, my mom has been there for me and gotten me through them. Mom, I will never be able to repay everything you have done for me. Know that you are my inspiration, so thank you." After her speech other students called out "I love you mom."
    Other Kamehameha Hawaiʻi Island 2019 graduates from Kaʻū are: Ua's ranching family cousin Gavin Galimba, Kailee Kamalani Kuhaulua-Stacy, and Melia Okimoto.
     See the Kamehameha commencement ceremony on YouTube.

     

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.

105 feet of tower holds millions of dollars of high-tech sensing equipment.
DLNR photo

A 105-FOOT-HIGH METEOROLOGICAL TOWER IN PUʻU MAKAʻALA Natural Area Reserve, above Volcano Village, hosts millions of dollars in high-tech sensing equipment. Towering above the highest trees in the Reserve, the tower is the final component of the National Ecological Observatory Network.

     Funded by the National Science Foundation and operated by Battelle Memorial Institute, NEON is a system of 81 field sites, spread across the entire country, with the final one in Hawai‘i just recently completed and online, reports the state Department of Land and Natural Resources. Each site collects standardized data from automated sensors, airborne remote sensing surveys, and on-the-ground observational sampling by field scientists. The terrestrial, aquatic, and atmospheric data and samples collected at these sites are available to scientists and anyone else interested, through a single, openly accessible data portal. NEON is expected to generate data for ecological research over the next 30 years.

     NEON's Field Operations Manager for Hawaiʻi, Michael Long, said, "The idea of NEON is to create a giant data clearinghouse, where anyone can go to the web and access data from Alaska, Hawai‘i, Puerto Rico, and every state, and see continental-scale changes for the next three decades. It's available to researchers, students, to anybody, and we hope it will get people excited about science as they see the types of measurements and the types of data that we can collect and how it connects to the environmental changes we see around us."

The top platform of the NEON tower sits above the tree tops.
DLNR photo

     Senior Field Ecologist for NEON in Hawai‘i, Robert Hamnett, said data collection instrumentation on the observatory includes net radiometer, photoactive radiation sensors, rain samplers, CO2 gas systems, carbon flux sensors, tipping buckets, and more. "A huge benefit of NEON is there are guaranteed, standardized protocols to measure everything here in Hawai‘i, exactly the same way it's being measured across the nation. There's never been anything like it."

     Automated sensors on the tower in Pu‘u Maka‘ala collect weather and climate data from above the tree canopy and down to the ground. Additional sensors in the ground collect soil health data. NEON field scientists also collect routine observations of birds, insects, soils, and plants to monitor changes in traits and populations dynamics.

     A Senior Ecologist with the NEON project, Shea Uehana, said, "Our field scientists conduct dozens of observational sampling protocols that make up the terrestrial observational system, meaning that the data from the ground can be used to validate and correlate with data you get from the tower. For instance, we look at plant phenology, which is the timing of flowering and leaf bud on native species like the ʻŌhiʻa."

Automatic sensors record things like sunlight and rainfall, among many
other things. DNLR photo

     The rich data emanating from NEON will be a boon for land managers and researchers working in the Reserve, reports Steve Bergfeld, Hawai‘i Island Branch Manager for the DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife. "Pu‘u Maka‘ala is one of the most intact native forests in the entire state. It supports a wide variety of rare and endangered plants and animals. It would be impossible for us to collect environmental data with the scope and sophistication that NEON provides, with the enormous added benefit of being able to detect ecological changes over many decades. The information collected by NEON will help us make better and more informed decisions on behalf of the forest life that we're charged with protecting and preserving. Information is definitely power in this case."

     NEON's Hawaiʻi field site offers 13 different data sets for download. That number is "expected to grow exponentially over time. Hawai‘i's NEON site will be the only one here. Other states, like California, have multiple field sites, some of which are relocatable," reports DLNR.

     The NEON Data Portal is online here. 

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.

HIGH SURF ADVISORY for Kaʻū shorelines through tomorrow, reports National Weather Service. Strong breaking waves and strong currents making swimming dangerous are expected.

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.

See public Kaʻū events, meetings, entertainment. 

See Kaʻū exercise, meditation, daily, and weekly events. 

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

and facebook.com/kaucalendar.

UPCOMING

MONDAY, MAY 27

Memorial Day Ceremony, Monday, May 27, 3 p.m., Front Lawn, Kīlauea Military Camp. Keynote speaker: Lt. Col. Loreto Borce, Jr., Commander of Pohakuloa Training Area. Open to public. In case of rain ceremony will be moved indoors. Park entrance fees apply. 967-8371, kilaueamilitarycamp.com

Memorial Day Buffet, Monday, May 27, 4 p.m. – 7 p.m., Crater Rim Café, Kīlauea Military Camp. BBQ Pork Ribs, Local Styles Fried Chicken, Smoked Vegetable Kabobs, salads and more. $20.95/Adults, $11.95/Child (ages 6-11). No reservations required. Open to all authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. 967-8356, kilaueamilitarycamp.com

TUESDAY, MAY 28
HOVE Road Maintenance Board Mtg., Tuesday, May 28, 10 a.m., HOVE Road Maintenance office. hoveroad.com, 929-9910, gm@hoveroad.com

Ka‘ū Food Pantry, Tuesday, May 28, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., St. Jude's Episcopal Church in Ocean View. Volunteers welcome. Dave Breskin, 319-8333

After Dark in the Park – Hawai‘i's Landfill Crisis: From Hopeless to Hopeful, Tuesday, May 28, 7 p.m., Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium. Special guest speakers Lori Kahikina, P.E. Director, Department of Environmental Services and Jim Howe, Emergency Services Director present sobering look at Hawaiʻi’s future and a call to action that provides hope while separating myth from reality. Free; park entrance fees apply. 985-6011, nps.gov/havo

WEDNESDAY, MAY 29
Kōkua Kupuna Project, Wednesday, May 29 – last Wednesday, monthly – 9 a.m. – 11 a.m., St. Jude's Episcopal Church, Ocean View. Seniors 60 years and older encouraged to attend, ask questions, and inquire about services offered through Legal Aid Society of Hawai‘i – referral required, 961-8626 for free legal services. Under 60, call 1-800-499-4302. More info: tahisha.despontes@legalaidhawaii.org, 329-3910 ext. 925. legalaidhawaii.org

THURSDAY, MAY 30
Summer Keiki Learn-to-Swim Registration, Thursday, May 30, and Friday, May 31, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m., Pāhala Swimming Pool, Ka‘ū High & Pāhala Elementary School Campus. $15 per session; cash or check accepted. Payable to County Director of Finance. 928-8177, hawaiicounty.gov/pr-aquatics

Volcano Friends Feeding Friends, Thursday, May 30, 4 p.m. – 6 p.m., Cooper Center, Volcano Village. Free community dinner for all. Additional packaged goods to take home for those in need. Donations and volunteers encouraged. 967-7800, thecoopercenter.org

FRIDAY, MAY 31
Coffee Talk at Kahuku, Roosevelt's Tree Army: Civilian Conservation Corps in Hawai‘i, Friday, May 31, 9:30 a.m. – 11 a.m., Kahuku Unit Visitor Contact Station. Talk story with Dr. Jadelyn Moniz Nakamura. "Bring your own cuppa." Free. nps.gov/havo

SATURDAY, JUNE 1
Summer Reading Program: A Universe of Stories, June 1-July 13, all Hawai‘i Public Libraries including Nā‘ālehu and Pāhala. Starting June 1, sign in and register at librarieshawaii.beanstack.org for free reading rewards, activities, and programs for all ages, and a chance to win a round trip for Four to anywhere Alaska Airlines flies.

Edible Wild Plants: A Hands-On Foray for Foragers and Foodies with Zach Mermel of Ola Design Group, Saturday, June 1, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Volcano Art Center. $30/VAC member, $40/non-member, plus $15 transportation fee. Class size limited. Register early. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

Lā‘au Lapa‘āu Workshop, Saturday, June 1, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Kaʻū District Gym. Free workshop open to the public from Hui Mālama Ola Nā ‘Ōiwi Traditional Health team. 969-9220, hmono.org

Keiki Science Class, Saturday, June 1 – 1st Saturday, monthly – 11a.m. to noon, Ace Hardware Stores islandwide; Nā‘ālehu, 929-9030 and Ocean View, 929-7315. Free. acehardware.com

Andy McKee Plays in Volcano at Kīlauea Military Camp's Kīlauea Theater, Saturday, June 1. Show begins at 7:45 p.m. A Park entrance fee may apply if arriving before 7:30 p.m. McKee is an acoustic guitar "virtuoso, a master practitioner" of folk, blues, bluegrass, and other musical genres. Information or purchase tickets, $48, at (808) 896-4845, kilaueamilitarycamp.com, or bluesbearhawaii.com.

SUNDAY, JUNE 2
Ham Radio Potluck Picnic, Sunday, June 2 – 1st Sunday, monthly – noon-2p.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, JUNE 3
Hawai‘i County Council Mtgs., Monday, June 3 (Committees), Tuesday, June 4 (Council), Hilo. Ka‘ū residents can participate via videoconferencing at Nā‘ālehu State Office Building. Agendas at hawaiicounty.gov.

LIHEAP Energy Assistance Program Applications, Monday, June 3, 10, 17, or 24, Tuesday, June 4, 11, 18 or 25, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Green Room, Ocean View Community Center. See hceoc.net/programs/energy for full list of requirements and to download forms.

Mr. Kneel Public Speaker and Professional Beatboxer, Monday, June 3, 2:30 p.m., Pāhala Public and School Library. Features math, reading, Dr. Seuss, and family friendly humor. 928-2015

Ocean View Volunteer Fire Department Mtg., Monday, June 3 and July 1, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

ONGOING

Summer Programs for Kaʻū High & Pāhala Elementary registrations are open.
     Uplink All-Stars runs Friday, June 7 through Friday, June 28 for students in grades 6, 7, and 8.
     Algebra camp is also open to students in grades 6, 7, and 8 from Monday, June 10 through Friday, June 21.

     Early College, for high school students, runs from Wednesday, June 12 through Thursday, July 11.

     All three programs require registration by calling 313-4100.

     Seamless Summer Program, open to all people under age 18, no registration required, offers free breakfast from 7:30 a.m. to 8 a.m., and free lunch from 11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., on weekdays in the school cafeteria.

Exhibit – Hulihia, A Complete Change: The Hawai‘i Nei Invitational Exhibition, runs through Sunday, June 16, daily, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Volcano Art Center Gallery. Multi-media exhibition of seven artists. Free; National Park entrance fees may apply. 967-7565, volcanoartcenter.org

Nā‘ālehu Independence Day Parade Sign-Up Open until Thursday, June 20. Parade happens Saturday, June 29 at 11 a.m. The parade route begins at the Nāʻālehu Elementary School and ends at the Nāʻālehu Hongwanji Mission. To participate, call Debra McIntosh, 929-9872.

Full-Time Teaching Assistant Sought by Tūtū & Me to implement curriculum for caregivers and keiki in Tūtū & Me Traveling Preschool in Kaʻū. Competitive salary and benefits package, including medical, dental, drug, and vision; flexible spending plan; 403b retirement plan; vacation, sick days, and 14 paid days off; and more.

     Minimum requirement is a high school diploma. Early Childhood Education, related coursework, and/or experience working children preferred. For more, visit pidf.org/about/careers. Apply by emailing resume and cover letter to hr@pidfoundation.org or fax to 808-440-6619.

Hi-Employment Seeks Student Employees to work in a macadamia nut orchard on weekends and holidays. Duties include hand-harvesting macadamia nuts, filling and transporting nut bag and buckets, loading 25-plus pound bags into truck beds, and possible clearing of brush and branches. Applicants must be at least 15 years old, have a work permit, two forms of ID, and transportation to "Panaʻewa Stretch." Call for more details, 238-3741, hi-employment.com.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.