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Monday, July 29, 2019

Kaʻū News Briefs, Monday, July 29, 2019

Hurricane Erick could pass south of Kaʻū overnight on Thursday as a strong Tropical Storm, if it continues its predicted course and intensities. 
See more below. Map by Dennis Mersereau
NEW INTEREST IN NĀʻĀLEHU THEATRE RECONSTRUCTION AND PRESERVATION is emerging following the purchase of the adjacent Nāʻālehu Shopping Center by Duane and Robert Kurisu, from the late Harry and Jeanette Weinburg's 300 Corp.
     Glen Winterbottom, of Nāʻālehu, a longtime advocate of restoration of the historic theatre, released a letter to the Kurisu's and the public, saying in part that he has made "some humble efforts over the past few years to promote the restoration or reconstruction" of the "1925 Hutchinson Plantation Company structure for some sort of beneficial usage, but those have regrettably been unsuccessful and the structure has continued to deteriorate."
     He said there was some interest among state and county officials in early 2018, but without response from the owners, and with much other work to do with the volcanic eruption disaster.
    Writes Winterbottom, "It just seems a terrible shame and waste that this economically-depressed town might lose its last major unaltered landmark associated with the incredibly transformative sugar industry that dominated the Big Island and state for over 150 years.
    "If restoration of the landmark, which looms over the town center and has anchored it for nearly a century, were to prove unfeasible, there's no overriding reason why it couldn't be faithfully reconstructed on the exterior from measured drawings, as was done with most of the structures at Waipahu's Plantation Village on Oʻahu. As for the interior, a capable architectural firm with historic building expertise probably wouldn't have much difficulty redesigning it for some sort of adaptive reuse, if reviving it as a theater-type venue is deemed impractical.
Interest in revival of Nāʻālehu Theatre is growing. Photo by Peter Anderson
     "The nearby Nāʻālehu Library is currently situated in a cramped single-wide trailer, so
perhaps the State would be interested in leasing space for an expanded facility with plenty of parking. Or the structure could also be an appropriate site for a wide array of retail and/or tourism-related ventures, and there's probably room within for a full second floor as well."
     Winterbottom says that the Kurisus' interest could help inspire others to join in with grants and in-kind donations "to achieve a positive outcome for this community."
     He said he was formerly employed by C. Brewer's Nāʻālehu Dairy. "My great-grandfather spent most of his 20-year contracting career doing masonry work for Castle & Cooke's various sugar plantations, including constructing a widely admired 125-foot brick chimney for the Kohala Sugar Company in 1892."

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HPD AND PARK RANGERS ARE LOOKING FOR CLUES to the cause of the fatal accident along Hwy 11 in the Kaʻū Desert last week. On Thursday, July 25, Jonathan Milo Brown, 57, of Iowa, a professor at Grinnell College, was driving Hilo-bound on Highway 11 in the Kaʻū Desert area of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, just before 2 p.m. His vehicle wrecked near mile marker 35. Brown was found by Park rangers, pinned beneath his older model SUV. He was pronounced dead at Hilo Medical Center later that day.
     Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park rangers, with the assistance of Hawai‘i Police Department, are investigating. Anyone with information regarding this accident can call Park dispatch at 808-985-6170 or HPD Officer Jason Foxworthy at 808-326-4646, ext. 229.

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Kaylynne Santana and Toni Romp-Friesen had a great time during Volcano's ʻŌhiʻa Lehua Half Marathon.
  Photo from Mikey Brown Photography
THE INAUGURAL VOLCANO'S ʻŌHIʻA LEHUA HALF MARATHON & 5K last Saturday was well received by runners and locals. The Half Marathon recorded 119 participants, the 5K 107 participants. The youngest 5K entrant was 6; the youngest finisher, 8 year old Maya Limmolt. The youngest Half Marathoner to finish was 14 year old Parker Smith. There were also Keiki Dashes for 6 and under, and 7 to 10, held at The Volcano School of Arts & Sciences.
     The new race, organized by Keely McGhee, and Kelly and Nick Muragin, seeks to raise money to help save ʻŌhiʻa forests, and fill the gap left by Volcano Rain Forest Runs, which retired in 2018. See yesterday's Kaʻū News Briefs for comments on the races and the Half Marathon results. Here are the 5K results:
A seedling ʻŌhiʻa Lehua was given as a trophy to those who finished 
the races. Photo from Mikey Brown Photography
     Female 5K Top Five Winners
     Aria Heil, age 16, took first place for the 5K for women, sixth place overall, and first in her age group, 19 and under, in 24:55.6. Daniela Rebhan, in the 30-39 group, placed second for women, seventh overall, and first in her group, in 26:04.8. Cynthia Hartman finished third for women and second in her group, 30-39, in 28:13.0. Fourth overall for women went to Volcano local Aubrey Hawk, group 50-59, in 28:17.4. Hawk participates in the Volcano Winery fundraiser, which benefits VSAS; tickets are on sale as of Aug. 8. Jade Ivey, age 12, took fifth for women overall, and second in her group of 19 and under, in 29:03.5.
     Elaina Head, 12 year of age, took third in 19 and under, in 35:11.0. Helena Rataj, 10 years of age, took fourth, in 38:19.0. Maya Linnolt, age 8, took fifth, in 42:18.6.
     Age group 20-29 saw Midori Matsuo take second, in 30:28.4; Ariel Imoto third, in 35:02.4; and Emily Fernandes fourth, in 39:56.6. There was no fifth place finisher in the group.
     Elyse Cummins placed third in the 30-39 group, in 29:27.0. Fourth went to Jessie Deakins, in 31:51.3; fifth to Jessica Hartong, in 34:20.0.
     Women in the 40-49 group were led by Yuko White in first place, in 31:19.0. She was followed closely by Andrea Christensen in second, in 32:23.7; Jane Hansen, third, in 33:48.5; Jolene Head, fourth, in 35:11.1; and Heather Yost, fifth, in 35:25.5.
     Dawn Tillery followed Hawk in second for the 50-59 group, in 29:33.6. Third went to Kathy Baxter, in 35:35.6; fourth to Jeannette Heil, in 38:25.6; and fifth to Rachel Rimel, in 39:03.3.
 Shaka at the start of the first Volcano'sʻŌhiʻa Lehua Half Marathon.
Darian Basacdua, #147, took first in his 20-29 age group for the
Half Marathon. Photo from Mikey Brown Photography
     The 60-69 group in the 5K saw Marta Ciancio place first, in 34:02.5. In second, Kathy Sweo, in 36:47.4, and Margaret Wassner in third, in 37:47.9. Robin Stratton placed fourth, in 39:35.5, and Judy Ann Williams finished fifth, in 41:53.8.
     Fia Mattice, in 34:00.1, and Dee Wiecher, in 54:09.2, represented the 70+ group.
     Male 5K Top Five Winners
     Rylie Cabalse placed first overall in the 5K, and first in his 19 and under group, in 18:55.8. More than a minute and a half later, second place overall, and first for his 50-59 group, Todd Marohnic finished in 20:29.0. Ryan Williams was third, in 22:11.4, and second in his 19 and under group. Bryce Harada, 20-29 group, placed fourth overall and first in his group, in 22:14.5. James Twigg-Smith took fifth overall, and first in his 30-39 group, in 23:43.4.
     The 19 and under group top five was filled out by 11 year old Caleb Crook, third, in 27:08.0. Asher Rataj, 12, took fourth in the group, in 27:10.5. Eli Crook, one of two youngest males – at ten years old – to finish the race, placed fifth in the age group and 23rd overall, in 30:28.8.
     Ramaiah Ojeda, in the 20-29 group, placed second, in 26:15.4. Close on his heels was Francis Sakai-Kawada, third, in 29:26.5. Fourth went to Nick Jack, in 35:18.7. There was no fifth entrant in the group.
119 people entered the inaugural Volcano'sʻŌhiʻa Lehua Half Marathon.
Jesse Houlding, Sharla-Ann Fujimoto, and Nicole Lewien start the race
together. In the Half Marathon, Lewien took first in her 20-29 age group,
Fujimoto fifth in her 30-39 age group, and Houlding sixth in his
50-59 age group. Photo from Mikey Brown Photography
     Second place in the 30-39 group was achieved by Bastian Rebhan, in 26:29.8. Third was captured by Jonathan Leiner, in 30:18.4; fourth by John Monnette, in 32:02.2; and fifth by Daniel Loo, in 36:33.5.
     Jarvis Valera, first, in 31:18.5, and Andrew White, second, in 31:19.4, represented the 40-49 group. There were no more entrants in the group.
     Reed Brozen, in the 50-59 group, followed Marohnic, in 26:10.0. Swiftly thereafter came Jeffrey Hawk, in 28:14.8, at third place; Christian Engelhardt, in 28:39.6, at fourth; and Patrick Adams, in 30:48.3, at fifth.
     Zinn took the first place slot in the 60-69 group, in 35:59.1. He was followed by Timothy Kale, in 43:59.2. There were no more finishers in the group.
     Jeff Hamilton, the eldest runner to finish the race, represented the 70 and older males, in 32:47.5.
     See the event website, ohialeahuhalf.com.
     See race results at webscorer.com/race?raceid=189374.

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Erick, center, and Flossie, coming up from the west, wind forecasts. Image from nhc.noaa.gov
ONE HURRICANE AND ONE TROPICAL STORM ARE HEADED TOWARD KAʻŪ, with Hurricane Erick predicted to strengthen to a major hurricane, then weakening to a tropical storm as it passes south of South Point overnight on Thursday.
     Tropical Storm Flossie is much farther away, but forecasters expect the storm to develop into a hurricane by tomorrow and stay strong until at least the weekend. She is also on track to make her way toward the islands.
     See nhc.noaa.gov for more.

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Some 2,500 peacefully marched on Kauaʻi Sunday, in solidarity with the Kiaʻi, Protectors, of Maunakea.
Photo from Puʻuhonua o Puʻuhuluhulu Maunakea Facebook
MAUNAKEA NEGOTIATIONS WERE THE SUBJECT OF MAYOR HARRY KIM'S press conference today. The mayor said he aims to help normalize operations on Maunakea, hoping that Maunakea Access Road will reopen to the public, telescope operators, religious practitioners and stargazing businesses.
A youth, walking down Daniel K. Inouye Hwy, with an inverted Hawaiian
state flag - the sign of a distressed nation.
Photo from Ikaika Marzo Facebook
     Kim said he met with Protectors of Maunakea and state officials involved with the Thirty Meter Telescope on Friday. He said there were no conclusions drawn regarding ending the blockade by Protectors who propose constructing the TMT, and that parties acknowledge their "different viewpoints," and plan more meetings. Kim said he supports construction of the world's most powerful telescope on Maunakea, "I support TMT as a resource of science. I support TMT to be done in a good way, a right way." He also called for any solution to be peaceful.
      While the mayor has visited the Protectors of Maunakea encampment at the Access Road several times, University of Hawaiʻi President David Lassner visited on Sunday. "I am committed to try to find a peaceful way forward for all people of Hawaiʻi," said Lassner. He said it "requires that I understand better than I did before I came here."
     Also visiting and performing at the encampment along Maunakea Access Road was Damian Marley, a recording artist and son of the late Bob Marley. The gatherings have grown to thousands of people, according to Protectors. On Kauaʻi this weekend, thousands marched in support.

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Print edition of The Kaʻū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes 
throughout Kaʻū, from Miloliʻi through Volcano, and free on 
stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com
2019 Kaʻū High School Athletics Schedule through August
See khpes.org/athletics-home for details and updates; Bowling TBA.

Football, Division II:
Sat., Aug. 24, 1 p.m., Kaʻū hosts Kamehameha

Girls Volleyball, Kaʻū District Gym:
Tue., Aug. 20, 6 p.m., Kaʻū hosts Hilo
Fri., Aug. 23, 6 p.m., Kaʻū hosts St. Joseph
Wed., Aug. 28, 6 p.m., Kaʻū hosts Kohala

Cross Country:
Mon., Aug. 5, 2:30 to 4 p.m., first day practice
Sat., Aug. 31, 10 a.m., @Christian Liberty

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

WEDNESDAY, JULY 31
Kōkua Kupuna Project, Wednesday, July 31 – last Wednesday, monthly – 9-11a.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, AUG. 1
Volcano Winery's Annual Fundraising Harvest Festival tickets go on sale Aug. 1 at volcanowinery.com or (808) 967-7772. Proceeds benefit Volcano School of Arts & Sciences; last year's event sold out. This sixth festive evening of live music, food, wines and craft beers under the stars happens Sunday, Sept. 8, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. The $50 per person tickets include live music entertainment by Young Brothers; delicious food and drink from local restaurants; award-winning wines and teas from the Volcano Winery; tours of the vineyards and a huge raffle.

Women's Expression Group, Thursday, Aug. 1 – 1st Thursday monthly – 3-4:30p.m., PARENTS Inc., Nā‘ālehu. Women welcome to drop in. Free. Lindsey Miller, 333-3460, lindsey@hawaiiparents.org

Mayor Kim & Ocean View Neighborhood Watch Mtg., Thursday, Aug. 1, 6-7p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

‘O Ka‘ū Kākou Mtg., Thursday, Aug. 1, 6:30-8:30p.m., Aspen Center. okaukakou.org

Registration Open: Sunflower Craft, through Monday, Aug. 5, Kahuku Park, Hawaiian Ocean View Estates. Program for ages 6-12 takes place Tuesday, Aug. 6, 12:45-3:30p.m. Free. 939-9113, hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation

Registration Open: Shrink Art Keychain, through Tuesday, Aug. 6, Ka‘ū District Gym multipurpose room. Program for grades K-8 takes place, Wednesday, Aug. 7, 3:30-5p.m. Free. 928-3102, hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation

FRIDAY, AUG. 2
Stewardship at the Summit, Aug. 2, 10, 16, 24, and 28, 8:45a.m.-noon, Kīlauea Visitor Center. Volunteers remove invasive, non-native plants. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and long pants. Bring hat, rain gear, day pack, snacks, and water. Gloves/tools provided. Parental/guardian accompaniment or written consent required for those under 18. Free; park entrance fees apply. Paul and Jane Field, field@hawaii.edu, nps.gov/havo

SATURDAY, AUG. 3
Edible Landscaping for Backyards and Beyond with Zach Mermel of Ola Design Group, Saturday, Aug. 3, 9a.m.-2:30p.m., Volcano Art Center. Learn how to transform lanai and lawn, field, and fence into an abundant oasis of edible and multifunctional plants. $30/VAC member, $40/non-member, plus $15 materials fee. Class size limited; register early. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

Keiki Science Class, Saturday, Aug. 3 – 1st Saturday, monthly – 11a.m.-noon, Ace Hardware Stores islandwide; Nā‘ālehu, 929-9030 and Ocean View, 929-7315. Free. acehardware.com

Flameworking - An Introductory Class with Nash Adams-Pruitt, Saturday, Aug. 3, and Sunday, Aug. 4, 2-4:30p.m., Volcano Art Center. $155/VAC member, $160/non-member, plus $40 supply fee. Class size limited; advanced registration required. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

SUNDAY, AUG. 4
Ham Radio Potluck Picnic, Sunday, Aug. 4 – 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/viewith southhawaiiares/home. Rick Ward, 938-3058

MONDAY, AUG. 5
Tūtū & Me Traveling Preschool Accepting Enrollment Applications - orientation for enrolled families begins Aug. 5 and 6, with programs in Nā‘ālehu/Wai‘ōhinu at Kauaha‘ao Church on Mondays and Wednesdays, 8:45-10:45a.m., and Pāhala Community Center on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8:30-10:30a.m. Limited space. 939-8573, pidfoundation.org

ONGOING
Enroll at Volcano School of Arts and Sciences for the 2019-2020 school year, which starts Aug. 5; orientation for new students is Aug. 2. Spaces are available in 1st through 8th grades of the expanding Kula ‘Amakihi Community-Based Education (CBE) Program; the school may also have space or short wait lists for certain grades in the regular on-campus programs. Contact 808-985-9800 or email enrollment@volcanoschool.net to enroll.

Talk Action, Take Action: surveys available through Aug. 4, recovery.hawaiicounty.gov/connect/impact-status-survey-suite. The surveys focus on different areas of recovery after the 2018 Kīlauea eruption: households, businesses, and community.

Exhibit -The Joy of the Brush: Paintings by Linda J. Varez, daily through Sunday, Aug. 4, 9a.m.-5p.m., Volcano Art Center Gallery. Free; park entrance fees may apply. 967-7565, volcanoartcenter.org

Enroll in Tūtū & Me Traveling Preschool. Orientation for enrolled families begins Aug. 5 & 6, with programs continuing following week in Nā‘ālehu on Monday & Wednesday, 8:45-10:45am, and Pāhala, Tuesday & Thursday, 8:30-10:30am. Space is limited. pidfoundation.org

6th Annual Ka‘ū Coffee Trail Run Registration, webscorer.com/register?raceid=166020. 5K, 10K, 1/2 Marathon races through mac nut and coffee fields along slopes of Ka‘ū starting at 7a.m., Saturday, Sept. 21, Ka‘ū Coffee Mill. Sponsored by Ka‘ū Coffee Mill and ‘O Ka‘ū Kākou. Prices increase after July 9. okaukakou.org, kaucoffeemill.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.



Sunday, July 28, 2019

Kaʻū News Briefs, Sunday, July 28, 2019

The inaugural Volcano's ʻŌhiʻa Lehua Half Marathon races to raise money to save the ʻŌhiʻa Forests drew many
runners to Volcano yesterday. See half marathon race results below, 5K results tomorrow.
Photo from Mikey Brown Photography
MIRANDA FARMS TOOK TOP KAʻŪ COFFEE at the Hawaiʻi Coffee Association Statewide Cupping Contest. Jose, Berta, and Miss Kaʻū Coffee 2015 Maria Miranda accepted the award on Saturday, July 28 at the annual HCA Convention, this year held on Oʻahu. Miranda Farms also took fifth statewide, while R&G Farms, owned by Gloria Camba and Rogalio Aquino, took ninth statewide.
     In the scoring for the Kaʻū Coffee Region, Miranda Farms placed first, with 84.753 for its naturally processed Yellow Caturra. R&G took second, with its fully washed Typica variety and a score of 84.213. In third for Kaʻū was H&H Farm, LLC, with its pulped natural Bourbon variety, and a score of 83.910.
Jose and Berta Miranda win top coffee for Kaʻū, with Gloria Camba (r) taking second for her R&G Coffee 
grown with Rogelio Aquino. Photo by Maria Miranda 
     The Kaʻū Coffees scored close to the statewide winners. In first statewide was Greenwell Farms, of Kona, with its fully washed Geisha beans and a score of 85.280. In second statewide was Kona Rainforest LLC, with its naturally processed Typica beans, scoring 85.177. In third was Hula Daddy, of Kona, with its naturally processed Mokka variety and a score of 84.787.
Miss Kaʻū Coffee 2015 Maria Miranda (r) at the
new Miranda Farms Coffee outlet, open to the
public on Hwy 11 near Kahuku.
Photo from Miranda Farms
     Numerous Kaʻū Coffee farms scored more than 80 points, considered the standard for highly prized specialty coffee. In addition to the winning Kaʻū entry, Miranda submitted a pulped natural Typica that scored 83.785. In addition to the second place winner in the Kaʻū category, R&G submitted a fully washed Typica for a score of 83.375. In addition to its third place win, H&H Coffee Farm LLC submitted a pulped natural Typica variety for a score of 83.815 and a pulped natural Bourbon/Typica mix for a score of 83.470.
     Kaʻū Mountain Farm, owned by Dennis Albert and managed by Ruslan Kuznetsov and Alla Kostenko, submitted a fully washed Typica that earned a score of 83.69; a pulped, natural Catuai with a score of 83.530; and a fully washed Typica, scoring 83.125. Willie and Grace Tabios submitted their Rising Sun entry of fully washed Bourbon/Typica mix to score 83.440. Leo Norberte's JN Farms submitted a fully washed Typica for a score of 83.035. FL Farm, founded by the late Fanny Lilly, submitted a fully washed Typica/Caturra for a score of 83.00.
     Silver Cloud Coffee Farm, owned by Myles Mayne, submitted a fully washed Catuai for a score of 82.880 and a fully washed Caturra/Typica for a score of 82.750. Kaʻū Valley Farms entered a pulped natural Red Bourbon for a score of 82.810. Aroma Coffee Farm, owned by Amelia Biason, submitted a fully washed mixed variety for a score of 82.690. Ed Olson's Kaʻū Coffee Mill, LLC, entered a fully washed Typica for a score of 82.560. Manuel Marques' Hokulele Coffee Co. submitted a fully washed Typica/Caturra/Catuai for a score of 82.250.
     See all the coffee entries statewide that scored 80 and over at hawaiicoffeeassoc.org/resources/Cupping/2019/Results/2019-HCA-Cupping-Results-80
Plus.pdf.

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Susan Tom as she exuberantly finished the inaugural Volcano's ʻŌhiʻa Lehua Half Marathon race Saturday.
Photo from Mikey Brown Photography
A FINE MIST COOLED OFF RUNNERS during the inaugural Volcano's ʻŌhiʻa Lehua Half Marathon in Volcano Village on Saturday, July 27. The races included a half marathon, a 5K, and two levels of keiki dash for those ten and under – who didn't want to race with the adults.
     Race Director Keely McGhee, Organizer Kelly Muragin, and Course Manager Nick Muragin, all of Hawaiʻi Island Racers, devoted their time to the new race to fill the gap left by Volcano Rain Forest Runs ending after nine years. The race also helps to raise money to help save ʻŌhiʻa Forests.
     Said Kelly Muragin, "It certainly was a grass roots race in Volcano Village, being an inaugural event. After the race, many runners approached us and said they were grateful for us bringing the 'Big Island Running ʻOhana' together in Volcano and keeping running alive there. A lot also said they will definitely return next year, the event started on time, very organized, and ended early as well. No long waits for awards, etc."
     She said Grant Matsushige contacted her to say the Kaʻū aid station "was an awesome group. They had to direct traffic BOTH ways and they did a fantastic job! Super helpful to the runners. They also went out of their way to go beyond their aid station area to sweep for cups after the event."
At the awards ceremony for the inaugural Volcano's ʻŌhiʻa Lehua Half
Marathon races. Photo from Mikey Brown Photography
     Said Nick Muragin, "Being that I was on the course most of the time, I can't say enough about the volunteers and the positive vibes they put out. Wouldn't pull it off without them. I saw lot of smiles all during the race. The businesses were also happy we brought so many to the town for the weekend."
     McGhee said, "The inaugural Volcano's ʻŌhiʻa Lehua Runs was well received by runners and locals alike. Our group, Hawaiʻi Island Racers had a blast organizing this event and cannot wait to be back next year. We are so thankful to all of the Volcano Community, the Experience Volcano group, The Volcano School of Arts & Sciences, and all of our hard working volunteers."
     Male Half Marathon Top Five Winners
     Billy Barnett, of Volcano, took first overall in the Half Marathon in 1:17:23.0. Hot on his heels was Patrick Stover in 1:19:53.4 and David Collier in 1:23:31.9. The three men are the first three placeholders for their age group, 30-39. Jacob Fansler is fourth overall, in 1:25:57.3, with Daniel Hill fifth, in 1:27:20.6. Both men are the first two placeholders in their age group, 40-49.
     Joe Fairchild, 6th overall, took fourth in the 30 – 39 group in 1:27:29.2, with Daniel Hartong, 8th overall, fifth in 1:30:31.2.
     Brian Shiro, 7th overall, took third in the 40 – 49 group, in 1:29:45.3. Joe Barcia, tenth overall, took fourth, in 1:31:57.2, David Knowles placed fifth, in 1:44:54.4.
     Ayrton Takane, age 15, is first in the 19 and under group, 13th overall, in 1:37:59.7. Parker Smith, age 14, is second, in 2:11:10.8. There were no other 19 and under entries.
On the course. Photo from Mikey Brown Photography
     The four 20-29 group saw Darian Basacdua place first, in 1:44:23.6; Nicholas Tran second, in 1:52:32.7; Dalton Heil, third, in 1:58:48.1; and Al Galiza fourth, in 2:13:45.3.
     Kentaro Aoki took first place in the 50 – 59 group, in 1:38:07.8. Shawn Mishler, in 1:41:00.0, took second; Alex Wood took third, in 1:44:41.9. Fourth went to Michael Pipta, in 1:53:02.2. John Poetzel placed fifth, in 2:02:02.8.
     The 60-69 group, one of the more crowded fields, saw Leonard Torricer place first, in 1:57:03.6. Steven Pavao, second in 2:03:14.3, was closely followed by Ken Bevis, third in 2:05:39.8. Tom Cross took fourth, in 2:11:59.8, and Christopher Rizzi took fifth, in 2:22:17.0.
     Paul Whitehouse took first in the 70+ group, in 2:40:08.4. Joe Loschiavo took second, in 2:46:24.1. They were the only entries on their group.
     Female Half Marathon Top Five Winners
     Noe Waller, formerly Noelani McMahon, a Hilo resident and firefighter for Volcano, took first overall for the women in the Half Marathon, and first for her group, 20 – 29, in 1:30:33.3. She also won last year's final Volcano Rain Forest Runs Half Marathon for females, and she improved her time by over two minutes.
     Bree Brown took second overall for women and first in her group, 30-39, in 1:31:57.8 – less than a minute and a half behind Waller. Brown, who is a well-known Hawaiʻi Island runner, broke her leg during a race last year.
     Tina Eakin, in the 40-49 group, took third overall for women, in 1:34:23.2. Jodie Rosan, 30 – 39, took fourth overll for women, in 1:44:05.3, and Jessie McCree, 30 – 39, placed fifth, in 1:44:17.9.
     No female under age 20 entered the Half Marathon.
Finishers of the inaugural Volcano's ʻŌhiʻa Lehua Half Marathon races. 
Photo from Mikey Brown Photography
     Nicole Lewien took second in the 20 – 29 group, in 1:49:55.5; Shelby Kuyawa third, in 1:57:45.9; Mariah Castro frouth, in 2:06:05.5, and Rachel Irving fifth, in 2:10:39.7
     Elda Carreon placed fourth for the 30 – 39 group, in 1:51:47.1. Brooke Kinsler took fifth, in 1:58:03.6.
     Second place in the 40-49 group for women was accomplished by Julia Scharwaechter, in 1:49:53.9. Third went to Tamara Hynd, in 1:51:21.1, fourth to Nina Hasler, in 2:00:34.3, and fifth to Frecia Cevallos, in 2:15:12.6.
     Brenda Camacho took first place for women in the 50 – 59 group, in 1:52:18.8. The rest of the group was almost evenly spaced, with Tawnie McDonald, second, in 1:55:58.3; Catherine Fedak, third, in 1:58:46.5; Kathy Spory fourth, in 2:01:26.0; and Teresa Hall, fifth, in 2:03:11.9.
     Age group 60-69 for females first place winner is claimed by Elizabeth Wright, in 2:09:33.4. Second went to Suzanne Paulsen, in 2:33:24.6; third to Marilyn Brown, in 2:52:16.3. Fourth place went to Kaylynne Santana, in 3:30:57.0. Toni Romp-Friesen, the 100th and final finisher of the Half Marathon overall, was fifth, in 3:30:58.9.
     Morgen Bahurinsky, in 2:54:42.4, and Wendy Minor, in 3:13:39.0, represented the over-70 female finishers.
     See top finishers of the 5K race of Volcano's new ʻŌhiʻa Lehua Half Marathon in tomorrow's Kaʻū News Briefs.
     The race was an event during the Experience Volcano Festival this weekend. See more on the festival in Monday's Kaʻū News Briefs.

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MAUNAKEA TELESCOPE WORKERS are expected to return work. Protectors of Maunakea announced today that they would have no problem allowing people to go to work on the mountain, other than those aiming to build the Thirty Meter Telescope there.
     One of the leaders at the Puʻuhonua o Puʻuhuluhulu encampment at the access road, Kaho‘okahi Kanuha, said that the Protectors wanted to be allowed one car to the summit for religious practices each week and were turned down by the state. He said that the state accepted the arrangement today. "So from here on out, those who wish to perform maintenance on the telescopes will have unobstructed access to the Mauna," said Kanuha.
     Telescope operators warned last week that they were unable to do their research and that the telescopes could be compromised without maintenance crews attending to them.

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"We have vowed to protect the remnants of our culture at whatever cost,
and the culture cannot exist without the land." -- George Helm.
Photo from Hawaiʻi News Now
HOUSE HAWAIIAN CAUCUS CHAIRMAN DANIEL HOLT asked Governor David Ige to rescind the emergency proclamation on Maunakea. A statement from the House quoted Holt:
     "The Hawaiian culture is one of aloha and respect. These values must be present in all that we do. It has become evident from the number of demonstrations across the State that the events on Mauna Kea impact all residents of Hawai‘i, whether or not they are of Native Hawaiian ancestry. 
     "When an issue of this magnitude and sensitivity arises, it demands an approach of utmost care and understanding. We ask that Governor Ige immediately rescind the proclamation of emergency in order to de-escalate the situation and to allow space for the voices of Hawai‘i's people to be heard. It is inappropriate to respond to peaceful protests with disproportionate force.
     "Ua Mau ke Ea o ka ʻĀina i ka Pono was first spoken by Kamehameha III in response to the return of Hawai‘i to its people. In times like these we need to reflect on these words and allow them to guide us in our pursuit of righteousness as stewards of Hawai‘i.
     "We urge Governor Ige to reflect on current events and move forward with empathy, respect, and righteousness. We hope to work with all parties to find a solution that is both compassionate and reasonable."

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A BILL TO REINSTATE MEDICAID FOR MARSHALL ISLANDERS and other people living in the U.S. who come from Freely Associated States, such as Republic of Palau and Federated States of Micronesia, was reintroduced last week by Senators Mazie Hirono and Brian Schatz. The Covering our FAS Allies Act would reinstate Medicaid coverage under the Compacts of Free Association.
     The Compacts between the U.S. and the governments of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, Republic of Palau, and the Federated States of Micronesia, provide COFA citizens with the right to freely enter, live, and work in the United States, and prior to 1996, access certain benefits, including Medicaid. However, in 1996, the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act inadvertently excluded COFA citizens from the list of legally present non-citizens eligible to qualify for certain federal benefits. Since then, COFA citizens have been excluded from qualifying for Medicaid, denying them access to much-needed  care and leaving states like Hawaiʻi with large bills due to large populations of COFA.
     According to the Assistant Secretary for Insular and International Affairs, Douglas Domenech, at least 38,000 COFA citizens live in U.S. territories and Hawaiʻi, with 16,680 COFA citizens residing in Hawaiʻi, including numerous families in Kaʻū.
     Said Hirono, "Health care is a human right, and for far too long, COFA citizens have not had equal access to essential care and services through Medicaid. The Compacts are critical to our national security interests in the Pacific and we must uphold our end of the bargain. Thousands of COFA individuals and families live in the United States, and we have an obligation to reinstate Medicaid coverage for these allies living in Hawaiʻi and across our country."
Sen. Brian Schatz
Sen. Mazie Hirono
     Schatz said, "This bill is about the federal government taking more responsibility and ensuring access to health care for all COFA citizens. Too often, Hawaiʻi shoulders the cost of care for these residents. But at the end of the day, the U.S. government – through Medicaid – should provide coverage to all COFA citizens."
     Kathy Ko Chin, President and CEO of the Asian and Pacific Islander American Health Forum, said, "This month marks the 54th anniversary of Medicaid, a program that provides cost-effective health coverage to more than 75 million people. However, hardworking COFA citizens are locked out of this important safety net when federal law inadvertently removed their eligibility. We are pleased that Senators Hirono and Schatz have introduced legislation to correct a nearly 25-year-old error, and we encourage Congress to restore Medicaid access that COFA citizens are entitled to."
     In February, during a U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee hearing to examine the state of U.S. Territories, Hirono highlighted the serious economic impact lost Medicaid eligibility has on FAS citizens.

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THE FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY GATHERING OF KAʻŪ HAWAIIAN CIVIC CLUB will be held Saturday, Aug. 17 from 5 to 10 p.m. at Pāhala Community Center. Everyone is invited to enjoy food, music, and history.

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Print edition of The Kaʻū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes 
throughout Kaʻū, from Miloliʻi through Volcano, and free on 
stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com
2019 Kaʻū High School Athletics Schedule through August
See khpes.org/athletics-home for details and updates; Bowling TBA.

Football, Division II:
Sat., Aug. 24, 1 p.m., Kaʻū hosts Kamehameha

Girls Volleyball, Kaʻū District Gym:
Mon., July 29, 3 to 5 p.m., first day practice
Tue., Aug. 20, 6 p.m., Kaʻū hosts Hilo
Fri., Aug. 23, 6 p.m., Kaʻū hosts St. Joseph
Wed., Aug. 28, 6 p.m., Kaʻū hosts Kohala

Cross Country:
Mon., Aug. 5, 2:30 to 4 p.m., first day practice
Sat., Aug. 31, 10 a.m., @Christian Liberty

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

WEDNESDAY, JULY 31
Kōkua Kupuna Project, Wednesday, July 31 – last Wednesday, monthly – 9-11a.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, AUG. 1
Volcano Winery's Annual Fundraising Harvest Festival tickets go on sale Aug. 1 at volcanowinery.com or (808) 967-7772. Proceeds benefit Volcano School of Arts & Sciences; last year's event sold out. This sixth festive evening of live music, food, wines and craft beers under the stars happens Sunday, Sept. 8, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. The $50 per person tickets include live music entertainment by Young Brothers; delicious food and drink from local restaurants; award-winning wines and teas from the Volcano Winery; tours of the vineyards and a huge raffle.

Women's Expression Group, Thursday, Aug. 1 – 1st Thursday monthly – 3-4:30p.m., PARENTS Inc., Nā‘ālehu. Women welcome to drop in. Free. Lindsey Miller, 333-3460, lindsey@hawaiiparents.org

Mayor Kim & Ocean View Neighborhood Watch Mtg., Thursday, Aug. 1, 6-7p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

‘O Ka‘ū Kākou Mtg., Thursday, Aug. 1, 6:30-8:30p.m., Aspen Center. okaukakou.org

Registration Open: Sunflower Craft, through Monday, Aug. 5, Kahuku Park, Hawaiian Ocean View Estates. Program for ages 6-12 takes place Tuesday, Aug. 6, 12:45-3:30p.m. Free. 939-9113, hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation

Registration Open: Shrink Art Keychain, through Tuesday, Aug. 6, Ka‘ū District Gym multipurpose room. Program for grades K-8 takes place, Wednesday, Aug. 7, 3:30-5p.m. Free. 928-3102, hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation

FRIDAY, AUG. 2
Stewardship at the Summit, Aug. 2, 10, 16, 24, and 28, 8:45a.m.-noon, Kīlauea Visitor Center. Volunteers remove invasive, non-native plants. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and long pants. Bring hat, rain gear, day pack, snacks, and water. Gloves/tools provided. Parental/guardian accompaniment or written consent required for those under 18. Free; park entrance fees apply. Paul and Jane Field, field@hawaii.edu, nps.gov/havo

SATURDAY, AUG. 3
Edible Landscaping for Backyards and Beyond with Zach Mermel of Ola Design Group, Saturday, Aug. 3, 9a.m.-2:30p.m., Volcano Art Center. Learn how to transform lanai and lawn, field, and fence into an abundant oasis of edible and multifunctional plants. $30/VAC member, $40/non-member, plus $15 materials fee. Class size limited; register early. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

Keiki Science Class, Saturday, Aug. 3 – 1st Saturday, monthly – 11a.m.-noon, Ace Hardware Stores islandwide; Nā‘ālehu, 929-9030 and Ocean View, 929-7315. Free. acehardware.com

Flameworking - An Introductory Class with Nash Adams-Pruitt, Saturday, Aug. 3, and Sunday, Aug. 4, 2-4:30p.m., Volcano Art Center. $155/VAC member, $160/non-member, plus $40 supply fee. Class size limited; advanced registration required. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

SUNDAY, AUG. 4
Ham Radio Potluck Picnic, Sunday, Aug. 4 – 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/viewith southhawaiiares/home. Rick Ward, 938-3058

ONGOING
Enroll at Volcano School of Arts and Sciences for the 2019-2020 school year, which starts Aug. 5; orientation for new students is Aug. 2. Spaces are available in 1st through 8th grades of the expanding Kula ‘Amakihi Community-Based Education (CBE) Program; the school may also have space or short wait lists for certain grades in the regular on-campus programs. Contact 808-985-9800 or email enrollment@volcanoschool.net to enroll.

Talk Action, Take Action: surveys available through Aug. 4, recovery.hawaiicounty.gov/connect/impact-status-survey-suite. The surveys focus on different areas of recovery after the 2018 Kīlauea eruption: households, businesses, and community.

Exhibit -The Joy of the Brush: Paintings by Linda J. Varez, daily through Sunday, Aug. 4, 9a.m.-5p.m., Volcano Art Center Gallery. Free; park entrance fees may apply. 967-7565, volcanoartcenter.org

Enroll in Tūtū & Me Traveling Preschool. Orientation for enrolled families begins Aug. 5 & 6, with programs continuing following week in Nā‘ālehu on Monday & Wednesday, 8:45-10:45am, and Pāhala, Tuesday & Thursday, 8:30-10:30am. Space is limited. pidfoundation.org

6th Annual Ka‘ū Coffee Trail Run Registration, webscorer.com/register?raceid=166020. 5K, 10K, 1/2 Marathon races through mac nut and coffee fields along slopes of Ka‘ū starting at 7a.m., Saturday, Sept. 21, Ka‘ū Coffee Mill. Sponsored by Ka‘ū Coffee Mill and ‘O Ka‘ū Kākou. Prices increase after July 9. okaukakou.org, kaucoffeemill.com

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