Ka‘ū News Briefs, Friday, August 14, 2020

Grants to businesses and nonprofits with energy-saving projects are available through Hawaiʻi Energy.
See more below. Photo from Hawaiʻi Energy

HAWAIʻI TEACHERS UNION FILED A COMPLAINT WITH THE LABOR BOARD TODAY TO STOP STUDENT TEACHER INTERACTION ON-CAMPUS NEXT WEEK. A statement from the Hawaiʻi State Teachers Association posted today says, " The state's dangerous plans for in-person learning while coronavirus cases are exploding in our state, along with other violations of labor agreements, prompted the Hawaiʻi State Teachers Association to file a prohibited practice complaint with the Hawaiʻi Labor Relations Board against the state of Hawaiʻi.

All three of these unions represent staff at Hawaiʻi public schools
and called for distance learning to protect them from COVID-19.

     "The HSTA requested impact bargaining with the Hawaiʻi State Department of Education over the changing community conditions (with COVID-19 spreading) and newly modified instructional plans. The state has refused HSTA's demand to bargain over the change in working conditions, especially in light of the exponential growth in the spread of COVID-19 and infection at a growing number of schools since the beginning of this month and/or failing to bargain in good faith.
     "The spike in COVID-19 cases and the widespread transmission of the virus is an unsafe and hazardous condition which imminently endangers the health and safety of all BU-5 (HSTA) members who are required to report to their respective school and related worksites," HSTA's prohibited practices complaint said.
     "The HIDOE inappropriately claims that there is no significant change in working conditions, buildings are open, schools are safe, and students can return and teachers will need to report to their worksites next week. On Aug. 7, the department announced that during the first week of school, starting Aug. 17, 'students will physically return to campus on a coordinated and scheduled basis.'"
The complaint says that "The COVID-19 outbreak has infiltrated at least 15 Hawaiʻi public schools whose employees, staff members, or persons on campus tested positive."

Dr. Christina Kishimoto intends for public schools to open for teachers to
meet students to being distance learning on Monday.

     The teachers union is asking the Labor Board to make a declaratory ruling that the state's planned action violates the relevant state workplace safety rules by forcing teachers into a hazardous workplace, and an injunction to prevent the state from violating these rules.
     HSTA announced that it will also ask the Hawaiʻi State Board of Education to take action at its
Aug. 20 meeting to ensure 100 percent distance learning for all students on all islands until at least the end of the first quarter, and assure that teachers have the option of teleworking.
     Yesterday state Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Christina Kishimoto, said schools will be open to connect with students to start distance learning on Monday. The two other unions with workers on campus, Hawaiʻi Government Employees Association and United Public Workers, backed the teachers union in calling for distance learning to start the school year.

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INPUT FOR SELECTING A JUDGE FOR THE INTERMEDIATE COURT OF APPEALS is requested by Gov. David Ige. He announced today the Judicial Selection Commission sent him the names of five nominees to replace Associate Judge Alexa D.M. Fujise, who left in April: David M. Forman, director, Environmental Law Program, William S. Richardson School of Law, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa; Summer M. M. Kupau-Odo, District Judge of the First Circuit; Sonja M.P. McCullen, deputy prosecuting attorney, City and County of Honolulu; Karen T. Nakasone, Circuit Judge of the First Circuit; and Taryn R. Tomasa Gifford, attorney, Office of the Public Defender.

     The governor will interview each nominee and is seeking public comment on the governor's website at governor.hawaii.gov/contact-us/contact-the-governor/. Ige has 30 days, or until Sept. 13, to make his appointments, which are subject to Senate confirmation.

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AN ENERGY RELIEF GRANT PROGRAM was launched today by Hawaiʻi Energy. Its program will award $1 million in funding for energy efficiency improvements for small businesses, non-profits, and other qualifying organizations experiencing economic loss due to COVID-19.
     Businesses and organizations may apply for the grant, which can cover 100 percent of eligible expenses on pre-approved energy efficiency projects, up to $25,000. Hawaiʻi Energy will host a virtual info session on Tuesday, Aug. 18 at noon for businesses interested in learning more about the program. Click here to register for this complimentary session.

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JOIN A VIRTUAL DIABETES SUPPORT GROUP Tuesday, Aug. 18 from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. Sign up for the bimonthly meeting, hosted by Hui Mālama Ola Nā ʻŌiwi at hmonon.org/
services or check out hmono.org to learn more about the other diabetes-related programs they offer.

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ALL RECOMMENDED VACCINES SHOULD BE AVAILABLE TO ALL MEDICARE RECIPIENTS. That is the call from Sen. Mazie Hirono and bipartisan colleagues in the U.S. Senate. They made their request in a letter to Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Administrator Seema Verma.

     Under current law, Medicare immunization coverage varies by vaccine, says a statement from Hirono's office. Some vaccines, like those that protect against influenza and pneumococcal infection, are available with no additional out-of-pocket spending. However, other vaccines – like the shingles vaccine – often require significant additional spending, which in turn contributes to lower vaccination rates, particularly for elderly, disabled, and chronically ill people, says the statement.

     The Senators wrote: "Older adults and persons with chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and lung disease are especially vulnerable to serious illness and complications from vaccine preventable disease. Yet, Medicare coverage design for vaccines for these populations does not encourage access to this proven and cost-effective form of prevention.

     "We encourage CMS to work with Part D sponsors to offer either a $0 vaccine tier, or to place vaccines on a formulary tier with low cost-sharing. Now is the time to empower vulnerable elderly and disabled Medicare beneficiaries with the tools they need to stay healthy and out of the health care system. Immunizations are one of the most reliable and efficient forms of prevention that we know save lives and billions in avoidable health care costs."

     Last year, Senators Hirono co-introduced the Protecting Seniors through Immunizations Act, which would improve access to vaccines by requiring all recommended vaccines, including shingles and tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap), be available to Medicare beneficiaries at no additional cost, with the goal of increasing vaccination rates.

     Read the letter here.

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HELPING THE ELDERLY, DISABLED, AND THOSE WITH LIMITED ENGLISH PROFICIENCY during the pandemic is the goal of the Coronavirus Language Access Act. Introduced this week by Senators Mazie Hirono, Kamala Harris, and other colleagues, the legislation would expand access to coronavirus-related resources in more languages and support culturally appropriate COVID-19 response programs.

     A statement from Hirono's office says the pandemic "has magnified language access issues and disparities in health care, as more than 25 million people in the United States have limited English proficiency – 15 percent of whom are age 65 or older. For many limited English proficient individuals, their work on the front lines of the pandemic response leaves them more vulnerable and subject to greater risks of contracting COVID-19." 

     The Coronavirus Language Access Act would require federal agencies receiving COVID-19 funding to provide translated materials for COVID-19-related programs and opportunities within seven business days after the English version is available and provide oral language assistance services. The legislation would require the head of every federal agency receiving COVID-19 funding to submit a report about its compliance to the congressional Committees. The program would be funded at $200 million – $150 million of which would be for state (including DC), Tribal, and territorial health departments and community-based organizations to support culturally appropriate coronavirus response programs.

     The Act would require the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to create a coronavirus informational hotline with trained interpreters that provides COVID-19 information to the public and provide translated materials relating to COVID-19 screening, testing, treatment, and educational information to state (including DC), Tribal, and territorial agencies.

     Coronavirus Language Access Act would also provide $20 million to states for Area Agencies on Aging for older Limited English Proficiency individuals and $10 million to states for Statewide Independent Living Councils for LEP individuals with disabilities, to support access to COVID-19 information through partnerships with community-based organizations.

     Hirono said, "Coronavirus cases in the United States have topped five million infections, and the devastation caused by the pandemic has reached every corner of our country. We must do more so that all communities – regardless of English proficiency, age, or disability – have access to the federal government's coronavirus-related services and resources in culturally appropriate and understandable ways."

     Dr. Sheri-Ann Daniels, Executive Director of Papa Ola Lokahi said, "Use of our native languages in accessing health care and resources, especially during these times, is a step in uplifting and empowering Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander communities in Hawaiʻi and across the country."

     Heather Lusk, Executive Director of Hawaiʻi Health & Harm Reduction Center said, "Pacific Islanders have seen a dramatic rise in transmission rates in recent weeks. Over 10 percent of Hawaiʻi's population is limited English proficient, with a large number of residents born outside of the U.S. Lack of reliable science-based information in their original language places their households, their neighborhoods, and the larger community at increased risk of COVID-19 transmission."

     Francoise Culley-Trotman, Interim Chief Executive Officer of AlohaCare said, "One of the most powerful ways to understand the needs of our 70,000 Medicaid members is through their own language. Navigating the coronavirus means community health plans like AlohaCare having access to culturally appropriate coronavirus-related informational materials."

     Juliet K. Choi, Executive Vice President at the Asian and Pacific Islander American Health Forum said, "We cannot expect to end this pandemic if 25 million Americans who are Limited English Proficient cannot meaningfully communicate with their health care provider or receive lifesaving public health information about COVID-19."

     Amy Agbayani and Liza Ryan Gill, Advocacy Committee of The Legal Clinic Hawaiʻi said, "With the recent spike in cases in our state and the disproportionate impact the virus has had on Pacific Islanders, especially Micronesian communities, it is imperative that every effort is made to get translated materials into the hands of trusted community leaders for further distribution and that resources are allocated to culturally-appropriate health services."

     Kevin Prindiville, Executive Director of Justice in Aging said, "Older adults who are immigrants have been among the hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic and the hardest to reach. This legislation takes important and practical steps to ensure that everyone in our communities has the vital information and resources we all need to protect ourselves and our families."

     Silvia Yee, senior staff attorney at the Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund said LEP communities "have faced many of the same communication and information barriers that have confronted Deaf, hard-of-hearing, blind, and other persons with disabilities seeking COVID-19 testing and treatment. Every person in our country has been affected by this virus and we must give everyone the equal chance to understand how to avoid, fight, and recover physically and economically from it."

     The Coronavirus Language Access Act is also supported by more than 160 national and local organizations. Click here to see the full list of supporting organizations.

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Example of a three-point turnabout during the modified skills test for a Driver's License. DMV image

THOSE GIVING ROAD TESTS for Driver's Licenses will stay out of vehicles for now. From the pavement, they will observe drivers and aks questions through open vehicle windows.  The modified road test, approved by the state Department of Transportation, allows the examiner and applicant to maintain six-feet social distancing. Approval is granted through Sept. 30.

     The modified test begins with the applicant conducting a vehicle safety check, where the applicant is expected to describe to the examiner each item inspected and why. For example, "I am walking around the vehicle making sure there are no children, animals or obstacles behind or near my vehicle." The applicant is required to be familiar with all controls in the vehicle, as well as recognize when a component is safe on the exterior of the vehicle.

Modified road tests for Driver's Licenses will take place
at Afook-Chinen Civic Center.

     The second part is a vehicle control skills test, with six maneuvering exercises – forward drive, reverse-straight line backing up, three-point turnabout, complete stop, left or right parallel park, and a forward or reverse two-point turnabout.

     Road tests are conducted at Afook Chinen Civic Center. A licensed driver age 21 or older must accompany the applicant to the road test site. Valid registration, safety check, and insurance are also required. Applicants under the age of 18 must provide driver education completion certificates. Upon successful completion of the modified skills test, the applicant will be processed at the Hilo Driver's License office.

     Applicants are recommended to review customer guide, Preparing Yourself for the Modified Skills Test, available at hawaiicounty.gov/departments/finance/vehicle-registration-licensing/road-test-appointments, or at Hilo or Kona DMV offices. Applicants should come prepared and have all required documents with them. The modified skills test is only available in Hilo. Appointments may be made at hawaiicounty.ehawaii.gov/roadtest.

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Tropical Depression Ten-E, still more than 1,500 miles from Hawaiʻi.
NOAA image

DISTURBANCES IN THE CENTRAL PACIFIC ARE NOT FORECAST TO AFFECT HAWAIʻI. Tropical Depression Ten-E is expected to turn into a storm by Tuesday, but it still more than 1,500 miles east-southeast from the islands.

     Disturbance 1, more than 500 miles south-southeast has a 20 percent chance of turning into a tropical cyclone in the next 48 hours. It is moving west at ten miles per hour.

     Other disturbances that may develop into stronger storms in the Eastern Pacific are 2,600 miles or more from Hawaiʻi.

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HAWAIʻI ISLAND REPORTS FIVE NEW CASES TODAY, with a Hilo zip code, 96720, reporting between six and ten cases within the last 28 days. Statewide, 233 new cases are reported today, mostly on O‘ahu. Department of Health reports Kauaʻi has one new case, Maui nine, and Oʻahu 218.

     At a press conference today, Rep. Tulsi Gabbard called for a change in state leadership, and immediate expansion of contact tracing and testing capacity, as "lies and gross negligence" have come from state leaders. She was joined by Dr. Jennifer Smith, a Department of Health employee who reported the lack of contact tracing; physician and the president and founder of Premier Medical Group Hawaiʻi, Dr. Scott Miscovich; and Dr. DeWolfe Miller, an expert infectious disease epidemiologist, She said she is also working with congressional leaders to conduct oversight over the state's COVID-19 response, "as over $50 million in federal funding awarded to the state to improve testing and contact tracing, appears to have been misspent or gone unused." Watch the press conference here.

     Residents are urged by Hawai‘i Emergency Management Agency to take a survey, to determine what residents see as the most important issues the state is facing, "to assure that the needs of the people are identified and addressed appropriately." One adult per household is asked to fill out the survey, which takes about 10 minutes to complete, at http://go.hawaii.edu/3P6.

Onset of COVID-19 cases in the last 28 days, by zip code.

White is zero cases. Yellow is one to five cases. Light

orange is six to ten cases. Dark orange (not pictured)

is 11 to 20 cases. Red (not pictured) is 21 to 50 cases.

Hawaiʻi Department of Health map

     There are 17 active cases on Hawaiʻi Island, with a total of 144 since the pandemic began. At least one was recorded recently in Volcano, zip code 96785. No one is hospitalized from the virus. It has been more than 28 days since a case was recorded for a Kaʻū zip code. Since the pandemic began, no one died on this island. The Kona 96740 and Hilo 96720 zip codes recorded between six and ten cases during the last 28 days.

     The state's new case total is 4,543 since the pandemic began. Oʻahu reported 4,117 cases, losing one to new info; Maui County 206, losing one to new info; and Kauaʻi 53. Twenty-three victims are residents diagnosed while visiting other places. Forty people in the state died from COVID-19. There were 2,649 COVID-19 tests reported via electronic laboratory reporting today, meaning almost nine out of every hundred persons tested was positive.

     In his daily message, Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense Director Talmadge Magno said, "Hawaiʻi Island numbers although still low have shown an increase throughout the island and we need your help to protect our community from the virus spread. People disregarding the policies of gatherings, distancing, and face coverings has been identified as the cause for the increase of cases in the State of Hawaiʻi. We need your help by following the policies of prevention. Thank you for doing your part to keep our neighbors, friends, family, and community safe.

     "You are reminded that when traveling interisland the State of Hawaiʻi is under a 14-day quarantine for inter-island travel. Information on the revised inter-island quarantine exemptions is available at the Civil Defense website or by calling Civil Defense at 935-0031. As a reminder, do know the wearing of face masks is mandatory on the Island of Hawaiʻi. Thank you for listening and have a safe day. This is your Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense Agency."

     COVID-19 case count in the U.S. is more than 5,297,876 – over 25 percent of worldwide cases. The death toll is more than 168,181 – over 22 percent of worldwide deaths. Worldwide, there are more than 21 million COVID-19 cases. The death toll is more than 761,926 – over 10,000 in the last 24 hours.

Read online at kaucalendar.com. See our Fresh Food on The Kaʻū Calendar 

directory for farms, ranches, takeout. Print edition of The Kaʻū Calendar is 

free, with 7,500 distributed on stands and to all postal addresses throughout 

Kaʻū, from Miloliʻi through Volcano throughout the district. Read online at 

kaucalendar.com and facebook.com/kaucalendar. To advertise your 

business or your social cause, contact kaucalendarads@gmail.com.

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Daily, weekly, and monthly recurring Kaʻū and Volcano Events, Meetings, Entertainment, Exercise, Meditation, and more are listed at kaucalendar.com.

EVENTS
Writing for Inner Exploration and Life Reflection Workshop with author Tom Peek, Saturday, Aug. 15, 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. "Have you ever wondered how the place you come from influenced who you are? Or what memories you carry from your ancestors? Or how your personal history impacts your view of the world? Take a day out of your busy life to explore your deeper self and ponder the life you’ve lived so far." volcanoartcenter.
org/events, 967-8222

Attend a Virtual Presentation about ʻAlalā, the endemic, endangered Hawaiian crow via Zoom on Tuesday, Aug. 18 at 1 p.m. Register in advance at https://hawaii.zoom.us/…/tJcocuGrrTwiGNDBJcyKZOB8cUqkjkbtN9…
A confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting will be sent. See alalaproject.org.

Give Input on Proposed Improvements to Miloliʻi Beach Park through Tuesday, Sept. 8. A draft Environmental Assessment is released by County of Hawai‘i Department of Parks and Recreation, which would update the park to comply with Americans with Disabilities Act guidelines; make improvements to the parking lot, boat ramp, walkways, playground, and basketball/volleyball courts; and replace the restrooms, water system, and hālau.

Introduction to Papermaking Workshop with Mary Milelzcik on Saturday, Sept. 12, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. This papermaking workshop, using a household blender, will introduce papermaking using recycled papers with various additives, including cotton linters, and local plant materials. volcanoartcenter.org/events, 967-8222

Catalyst Abstract Watercolor Workshop with Patti Pease Johnson on Saturday, Sept. 19, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. volcanoartcenter.org/events, 967-8222

Dine In or Order To Go Oktoberfest Meals from Crater Rim Café in Kīlauea Military Camp on Saturday, Sept. 19 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Menu offers Bratwurst, Knockwurst, Bockwurst, German Potato Salad, Sauerkraut, Tossed Salad, and German Chocolate Cake. $14.95 per person. Call 967-8356 to book reservation for dine-in or place a grab-and-go order. Face coverings and 6 feet social distancing are required in common areas. KMC is open to all authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees may apply.

ONGOING

Apply for a Crossing Guard Position at Nāʻālehu Elementary, to help keiki cross the street safely before and after school. Apply online at https://www.governmen
tjobs.com/careers/countyhawaii or contact Officer Torey Keltner of the Traffic Services Division at 961-2305 for more information.

St. Jude's Episcopal Church Soup Kitchen, open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., with a modified menu and increased health & safety standards. Hot showers, the computer lab, and in-person services and bible studies are suspended. Services and worship are posted online at stjudeshawaii.org. Join the Aloha Hour via Zoom at 11 a.m. on Sundays, us02web.zoom.us/j/6843449828?pwd=YW94djVvU0szOGNKaFZ1V0pUL1owUT09, Meeting ID: 684 344 9828, Password: Aloha.

The Food Basket, last Tuesday of the month, Aug. 25, provides food at St. Jude's to those in need. See hawaiifoodbasket.org.

On-Call Emergency Box Food Pantry, Cooper Center, weekdays from 8 a.m. to noon. Eligible one time every three months. Call Kehau, 443-4130.

Pāhala and Nāʻālehu Public Libraries, open for pick-up services. Nāʻālehu is open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9 a.m. to noon and 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Pāhala is open Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to noon and 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Library patrons schedule Library Take Out appointment times to pick up their hold item(s) at their favorite libraries by going to HSPLS Library Catalog and placing a hold on any item(s) they want to borrow, or they may call their favorite library branch to place a hold with the library staff. After receiving a notice that item(s) are ready for pick up, patrons schedule a Library Take Out time at picktime.com/hspls. For patrons who placed holds during the closure, their item(s) are ready for pickup after the patron schedules a Library Take Out appointment. For more information, visit librarieshawaii.org.

Free Book Exchanges, at the laundromats in Ocean View and Nāʻālehu, provided by Friends of the Kaʻū Libraries. Everyone is invited to take books they want to read. They may keep the books, pass them on to other readers, or return them to the Book Exchange to make them available to others in the community. The selection of books is replenished weekly at both sites.

Apply for Assistance through U.S. Department of Agriculture's Coronavirus Food Assistance Program. The deadline to submit an application is Friday, August 28. Visit farmers.gov/cfap for more information.

Avocado Growers Survey Open. Help identify opportunities for expanding the local avocado industry, to assist local farmers, buyers, and agencies develop strategies to bolster Hawaiʻi's avocado industry, says Hawaiʻi Farmers Union United. Farmers and farm names kept anonymous, results shared publicly. Survey completion gives option to register to win a $200 gift certificate to Home Depot. For a hard copy of the survey, email: info@growfruithawaii.com. Take the survey: surveymonkey.com/r/Hawaiiavosurvey2020.

Receive Help Over the Phone with Critical Financial Issues, through Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund Financial Navigators from County of Hawaiʻi, in partnership with Hawaiʻi First Federal Credit Union. Access these remote services by completing the webform at hawaiifirstfcu.com/community-resource-center or by calling 808-933-6600 to sign up. The Financial Navigator will then send a short service agreement and call the client to begin their personal session. Organizations across the County can also refer clients directly to a Financial Navigator. For more information, contact Sharon Hirota at 808-961-8019.

Find Resources for LGBTQ+, Loved Ones, and Allies at Sexual and Gender Minority online resource hub. Hawaiʻi Department of Health's first website dedicated to LGBTQ+ resources. Developed by the Sexual and Gender Minority Workgroup in partnership with the DOH Harm Reduction Services Branch. Resources: Understanding the Pacific's alternative genders; Pronoun guide; Book lists for children and teens; ʻOhana support; and DOH data. For more information on joining the SGM Workgroup, email Thaddeus Pham at thaddeus.pham@doh.hawaii.gov. See health.hawaii.gov/harmreduction/sexual-gender-minority/sexual-and-gender-minorities-sgm-in-hawaii/.

Learn About Hawaiʻi's History & Culture through the Papakilo Database, a resource developed by The Office of Hawaiian Affairs. The Kahalo Center says database consists of "collections of data pertaining to historically and culturally significant places, events, and documents in Hawaiʻi's history. The purpose of this educational online repository is to increase the community's ability to preserve and perpetuate cultural and historical information and practices." See papakilodatabase.com.

Native Hawaiian Farmers and Ranchers urged to use U.S. Dept. of Ag On-Farm Market Directory. U.S. Office for American Indian, Alaskan Native, and Native Hawaiian Programs is developing a list of Native Hawaiian farmers willing to sell direct to consumers through the On-Farm Market Directory. On-farm markets are managed by a single farm operator that sells products on their farm, or on a property next to their farm. Some on-farm markets may also deliver or ship their goods directly to consumers. Visit the program website for more information and to register: ams.usda.gov/local-food-directories/onfarm.

Receive Free Marketing Assistance, for small businesses affected by COVID-19. Owners can receive free marketing assistance from Univeristy of Hawaiʻi-Hilo faculty and their senior class. They offer help with moving a business online, finding out more about the businesses' customers, analyzing marketing effectiveness, and providing customer service or website feedback. Visit https://bit.ly/2YvFxsl.

Find Grants and Loans Offered to Farmers and Ranchers, at oahuaca.org. The website has a new search feature to help find information that applies to the searcher.

Begin Learning Basics of Organic Farming, from two free modules of a virtual training program by the Organic Farming Research Foundation, the University of California Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education Program, and California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo. See https://kohalacenter.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=54bdd67c601f0c0d3ea430053&id=9e1691c22d&e=0e3fe20c1f.

Apply for Internships with Sen. Brian Schatz's office. Internships for undergrad, graduate, and law students are offered in the Honolulu and Washington D.C. offices. Applications are considered on a rolling basis year-round. Non-office internships are open for high school students to advocate in their communities. Applications due Sunday, Sept. 13. Schatz may also nominate exceptional students for appointment to the U.S. Service Academies. Applications due Friday, Oct. 23. See schatz.senate.gov/services.

Exhibition Hawaiʻi Nei Invitational: Nā ʻAumākua, runs through Saturday, Sept. 12. Also available to view online, view the exhibition in person the Gallery in the Park during normal gallery hours, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday. Free. The exhibition is a group exhibition will present works focusing on the theme of Nā ʻAumākua, family gods. VAC will not hold an opening reception on August 8th. volcanoartcenter.org/events, 967-8222

Volcano Art Center, Niʻaulani Campus in Volcano Village, open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., closed Saturday and Sunday. The Gallery in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is open Wednesday through Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed Monday and Tuesday. Virtual Shopping Appointments are offered at Volcano Art Center locations. Via Skype or FaceTime, a VAC associate helps customers browse the selection of artwork up close, and gives personalized tips and recommendations to help customers "find that perfect piece of locally made artwork, wherever you are in the world!" Book appointment online for $5 and VAC staff will help schedule a date and time at volcanoartcenter.org/shop. Shop the online gallery 24/7. Orders are shipped as regularly scheduled. Free local pickup is available.VAC now offers a Virtual Classroom, which features over 90 videos. volcanoartcenter.org/events, 967-8222

Guided Nature Walks through Nature Trail & Sculpture Garden, Mondays, 9:30 a.m. at Volcano Art 
Center Niʻaulani Campus in Volcano Village. No reservations for five or fewer – limited to ten people. Free; donations appreciated. Email programs@volcanoartcenter.org. Garden is open to walk through at one's own pace, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays. Free. volcanoartcenter.org/events, 967-8222

Health and Fitness Website for Kūpuna, 808b-fit.com, contains videos for kūpuna to play and move along with. There are videos for stretching, tai chi, yoga, dancing, dance fitness, bon dance, hula, chair dancing, and chair yoga.

Yoga with Emily Catey Weiss, Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. at Volcano Art Center 
Niʻaulani Campus in Volcano Village. Advanced registration required; $5 per class. volcanoartcenter.org/events, 967-8222

Ocean View Community Market, open Saturdays and Wednesdays (starting next Wednesday, Aug. 12), 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., on the corner of Kona Drive and Highway 11, where Thai Grindz is located. New market location for vendors of the recently closed Ocean View Swap Meet. Managed by Mark Cocucci. Masks are mandatory. Limit of people is 100. Social distancing is required. Gate will be unlocked for vendors at 5:30 a.m. Vendors can show up without a reservation for now, with $15 dollars. Parking is in the upper lot; parking on the side of the road is prohibited. All vendors must provide their own sanitizer. All food vendors must have the permits required for the items that you are selling. Vendors and attendees are encouraged to carpool.

Volcano Farmers Market, Cooper Center, Volcano Village, open on Sundays from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m., with much local produce, island beef, and prepared foods. Call 808-967-7800.

ʻO Kaʻū Kākou Market, in Nāʻālehu, open Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday, 8 a.m. to noon. The goal is no more than 50 customers on the grounds at a time. Vendor booths per day are limited to 25, with 30 feet of space between vendors. Masks and hand sanitizing are required to attend the market. Social distancing will be enforced. Contact Sue Barnett, OKK Market Manager, at 808-345-9374 (voice or text) or kaufarmer@aol.com for more and to apply to vend. See facebook.com/OKauKakouMarket.

See our Fresh Food on The Kaʻū Calendar directory for farms, ranches, takeout.

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.

Ka‘ū News Briefs, Thursday, August 13, 2020

The carbon footprint from planes traveling thousands of miles to haul tourists to this island would be offset by reducing
the amount of food hauled to the island by ship or plane. The concept is to tourism with food self-sufficiency.
See more below. Photo from Palau Bureau of Tourism

HAWAIʻI TEACHERS UNION is asking for distance learning only, without students meeting their teachers face-to-face on campus next week.
     The teachers, represented by Hawaiʻi State Teachers Association, today, threatened to sue the state if students are called into school next week to meet their teachers in person. HSTA President Corey Rosenlee said the union supports the Department of Education's decision to offer only distance

learning for the first quarter of school. He said, "Let's be clear. It is deceptive to say students will be 100-percent distance learning for four weeks, because next week, students will be in classrooms with face-to-face learning. To have teachers be required to meet with students face-to-face in the middle of a raging pandemic is reckless, and will risk the lives of everyone."
     Hawaiʻi state Superintendent of Schools Christine Kishimoto said that despite the threat of a lawsuit, public schools will open on Monday, with students coming to school by appointment to meet their teachers and receive any supplies provided for their distance learning at home. She also said those with problems learning from home will be able to come to the schools for learning. In addition, students will receive free meals from schools.

     "What our keiki deserve is time to train and connect with their teachers, to prepare before we shift to full distance learning for the next few weeks... As previously announced, our school leaders have designed plans to have students return to campus in a coordinated manner next week, as needed, to connect with their teacher, receive training on distance learning platforms if necessary, and address issues with connectivity and access to technology. In many cases, schools have designated one hour a day for certain grade levels to accomplish this, while enforcing safety protocols around social distancing and face coverings," said Kishimoto.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our Fresh Food on The Kaʻū Calendar and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

KAMEHAMEHA SCHOOLS SHUT DOWN ITS CAMPUS FOR CLASSES ON HAWAIʻI ISLAND TODAY. After learning that a student tested positive and recovered from  COVID-19, the school notified students and their families on Wednesday, moving the students into distance learning until at least Sept. 1.

     Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense messaged this morning: "To clarify, the reported case at the Keaʻau campus of Kamehameha Schools is not an active case. The student completed all the Department of Health isolation requirements on August 7th and is symptom-free. Kamehameha Schools should be commended for their abundance of caution and care for their students and faculty."
       The Kamehameha Schools notice said its administration "has been keenly aware of the evolving COVID-19 surge in different parts of our state, and especially those positive cases that hit closer to home affecting our own KS ʻohana. These cases and the situation have caused concern and indicate a larger community spread. While this situation remains fluid, we too need to be adaptive and pivot quickly in response to these changing conditions.

     "We will continue to act with an abundance of caution and care, recognizing the concerns of our ʻohana members, and thus, in the interest of health and safety of haumāna, kumu, and ʻohana, our kula will transition to full distance learning beginning tomorrow, August 13 through at least August 31.
     "Our reopening plans were developed to be responsive to the educational and well-being needs of our haumāna, placing safety as a priority. While our organization still believes that we are at a MODERATE RISK level, this decision to pivot to distance learning acknowledges the impact that current conditions could have on our ʻohana and the communities we serve, erring on the side of caution."

Hawaiʻi Island campus for Kamehameha Schools, where the student body
switched to distance learning today. Photo from KS

     Kamehameha Schools plans to "monitor and assess conditions throughout the month of August to see if the curve could be re-flattened so we could resume on-campus instruction as we had intended. We will continue to share updates and forecasts for where we may be headed in the days ahead."
     Poʻo kumu, the individual teacher guides for each student, will connect with students studying at home to provide resources. "Our intention is to keep campus open for business other than student instruction during this time of Distance Learning unless County or State orders dictate otherwise.

     "We recognize this is an extremely challenging time for all our ʻohana and are grateful for your patience and understanding. The health and safety of our haumāna and kumu are a top priority, and we believe this decision is necessary at this time based on the current surge in COVID-19 cases," said the notice to Kamehameha students.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our Fresh Food on The Kaʻū Calendar and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

PALAU AIMS TO BE THE WORLD'S FIRST CARBON NEUTRAL TOURISM DESTINATION.

A statement from Sustainable Travel International on Wednesday notes that Pacific Island nation of Palau, known for unspoiled natural beauty and dive sites, is regarded as one of the top marine tourism destinations in the world. "But while tourism is the economic lifeblood of Palau, it also contributes to the climate crisis, which is a major threat to the island destination. A substantial amount of carbon emissions are generated as tourists fly thousands of miles to reach the remote islands and consume food that was imported from far overseas."
     A project launched by Palau Bureau of Tourism, Sustainable Travel, and Slow Food aims to "tackle the carbon footprint of tourism in Palau. By reducing fossil fuel consumption and promoting carbon offsetting, this project aims to make Palau the world's first carbon-neutral tourism destination."

     The statement says the project team will work closely with Palauan farmers and fishers to increase the proportion of food that is sourced locally, thus reducing the amount of CO2 generated by imports.
     The project "will develop a first-of-its-kind carbon management platform that will allow visitors to measure and offset the carbon footprint of their entire trip, including their flights to/from Palau. These offset contributions will fund carbon reduction initiatives that protect coastal ecosystems and support sustainable production activities within the region."

     In recent years, Palau initiated restrictions and programs to increase environmental protection and responsible tourism. Like Hawaiʻi, it hosts one of the world's largest marine sanctuaries. Palau created the world's first mandatory eco-pledge called the Palau Pledge that all visitors are required to sign upon entry.

     The Palau Pledge, stamped on the passport of each visitor to the island, says, "Children of Palau, I take this pledge as your guest, to preserve and protect your beautiful and unique island home. I vow to travel lightly, act kindly, and explore mindfully. I shall not take what is not given. I shall not harm what does not harm me. The only footprints I shall leave are those that wash away."

     The Palau government banned tour operators from utilizing single-use plastics and styrofoam. It also legislated protection of its marine environment by adopting the world's strictest national sunscreen standard. The new initiative partnering farming, fishing, and tourism is endorsed by Palau's Ministry of Natural Resources, Environment, and Tourism; Ministry of Community and Cultural Affairs; Ministry of Education; Our Oceans 2020 Organizing Committee; and Office of the President of Palau, Thomas Remengesau Jr.

     See more here, and on the website of Sustainable Travel International. Palau is located some 4,620 miles west of Hawaiʻi.

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FAMILIES CAN SIGN UP FOR FREE CLOTHING FROM OLD NAVY through the Boys & Girls Club of the Big Island. Chief Executive Officer Chad Cabral announced today that the 20,0000 garments are ready for distribution. Families can fill out a request on bgcbi.org.
     The 20,000 garments will go to support community keiki in-need throughout Hawaiʻi Island. Families, who can, will be able to pick up their clothes once sorted, packed and ready, or BGCBI will help to get the clothing items to the home location of families that have barriers to transportation access.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our Fresh Food on The Kaʻū Calendar and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

Boys & Girls Club will continue its meal
distribution in Kaʻū for September.
Photo from Boys & Girls Club

BOYS & GIRLS CLUB will continue its weekday food service to Kaʻū and beyond through the month of September. Chief Executive Officer Chad Cabral made the announcement yesterday, updating the number of meals to more than 82,000 delivered islandwide to keiki and kupuna during the pandemic.
     "Our Community Support Meals have been made available to those in need for the past five months. And with the rise of COVID cases in the state, our local economy continuing to be significantly impacted, and with the uncertainty of public schools safely reopening to support children with academics and nutrition, the Boys & Girls Club of the Big Island remains committed in our efforts to help bring critical resources direct to the homes and communities of individuals and families experiencing hardship," said Cabral.

Boys & Girls Club has distributed more than 82,000
 meals on this island, during the pandemic.
Photo from Boys & Girls Club

     Volunteers bring the meals to Kaʻū on weekdays and drop them off at Pāhala and Nāʻālehu Elementary Schools, where they are picked up for distribution. Anyone desiring to be on the list of volunteers to pick up meals from the Boys & Girls Club in Hilo by 3 p.m. on weekdays, for delivery to Pāhala and Nāʻālehu, can call 808-961-5536. To donate to Boys & Girls Club of the Big Island, click here.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our Fresh Food on The Kaʻū Calendar and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

THE FIRST VIRTUAL HAWAIʻI CONSERVATION CONFERENCE schedule is published. Themed Ola ka ʻĀina Momona; Managing for Abundance, it takes place Tuesday, Sept. 1 through Thursday, Sept. 3. View the Conference Schedule and Abstracts here. 

     The annual Hawaiʻi Conservation Conference usually draws thousands of people to Oʻahu, including presenters from this island. Organizers promise the same level of content this year. Three full days will feature six concurrent sessions of short and long oral presentations, forums, workshops, and symposia, along with virtual exhibit hall and networking times.

     A statement from organizers says, "One great advantage of going virtual is that all content will be recorded and available to registrants on demand for at least three months. That means that even though you will still have to make the tough decisions about which of the 6 concurrent sessions to attend live, you will be able to catch all presentations whenever you have time in your schedule."
     Early bird registration closes this weekend on August 15 at 5 p.m. See hawaiiconservation.org/conference/

Registration fee discounts are available for the virtual Hawaiʻi Conservation
Conference, which usually draws thousands to Oʻahu each year.
See the online schedule and abstracts.

     Presentation and symposium titles include:
     Water Ecosystems and People;
     Application of Water-Budget Models to Evaluate the Effects of Forest Change on Water Resources in Hawaiʻi: Information Needs to Reduce Model Uncertainty, with author Alan Mair;
     Where we are with ʻAlalā: the ups and downs of reintroducing Hawaiʻis only living crow species back to the wild, with author Alison Greggor; and
     Student Scientists Provide Evidence of Successful Community-led Restoration of Hawaiian Bay, with author Mackenzie Leigh Jalnke.

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TROPICAL DEPRESSION TEN-E IS FORECAST TO NOT AFFECT HAWAIʻI. The depression is  expected to turn into a storm over the weekend, the back into a depression early next week, dissipating more than 1,000 miles east-southeast of the islands.

     Disturbance 1 in the Central Pacific has a 20 percent chance of turning into a tropical cyclone in the next 48 hours, but is forecast to continue to move past Hawaiʻi, over 800 miles south of the islands.

     Other disturbances in the Eastern Pacific are more than 3,000 miles from Hawaiʻi and are not forecast to affect the islands.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our Fresh Food on The Kaʻū Calendar and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

DOH Disease Investigation Branch Chief
Dr. Emily Roberson

HELP IS HIRED TO MANAGE CONTACT TRACING of COVID-19 at the state Department of Health. Dr. Emily Roberson is the new chief of the Disease Investigation Branch. With coronavirus cases rising quickly on Oʻahu and overwhelming the DOH staff, State Epidemiologist Dr. Sara Park recruited Roberson to take charge of this aspect of the pandemic.
     Department of Health Deputy Director Danette Wong Tomiyasu said, "Dr. Roberson comes to us from Hawai‘i Pacific University, where she served as a professor, instructing public health students in epidemiology and developed the advanced degree programs in public health. She has hit the ground running. We've tasked her with making significant upgrades to the contact tracing program within two weeks. As you can imagine, we are all stretched.
     "Dr. Park is still a part of DOH and will focus on other aspects of the pandemic. There is more than enough to do. We are fortunate that Dr. Park was able to recruit Dr. Roberson to fill this important role."

     During a press conference with Gov. David Ige today, Tomiyasu outlined changes to the contact tracing program, which include automating processes to reduce workload for contact tracers, standing up a call center with support from outside agencies to help with case management, and building in real-time monitoring and rapid-cycle evaluation of procedures and messaging. DOH will have 76 working on contact tracing and investigations, nine additional staff providing supervision and other support, 15 additional contact tracers and case investigation staff working this week on O‘ahu to investigate cases, and 21 additional personnel from Hawai‘i National Guard providing assistance on O‘ahu.
     DOH will bring on 20 new contact tracers from the UH training program this week, and another 20 will begin the onboarding process next week. Additional COVID-19 surge staff from other divisions within DOH, including disease investigators, epidemiologists, nurses, will be available, as will volunteers to assist with contact tracing, data analysis, and other disease response activities via the Medical Reserve Corps, university internship programs, medical residency programs, nursing clinical rotations, and community volunteering partnerships. DOH has procured and equipped additional space, and overtime is being compensated.

     Tomiyasu said contact tracing is a key component of tracking and preventing future COVID-19 cases in the state, but that it's just one tool the department uses. Hawai‘i State Laboratories Division and private labs have combined capacity to process 8,000 tests each day. "Hawai‘i has excellent laboratory services and good testing capacity; however, any nationwide shortages of testing supplies can be a looming threat to our local laboratory capacity. Delays in laboratory reporting can also affect our ability to investigate and trace cases," said Tomiyasu.

     She said DOH continues to investigate new and alternative testing procedures that meet national standards and accuracy requirements. In addition, DOH conducts routine laboratory surveys of state and private capacity to monitor this situation and plan for contingencies.

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A NEW ONE-DAY RECORD OF THREE HUNDRED FIFTY-FIVE COVID-19 CASES is reported today. The state Department of Health reports that most of the cases are on O‘ahu. Kauaʻi has one new case, Hawaiʻi Island four, Maui seven, and Oʻahu 343.

Gov. David Ige

     The deaths of two more O‘ahu men, both over 60, brings the state death total to 40.

     Gov. David Ige held a press conference today to address recent COVID-19-related deaths and record number of cases reported by DOH: "This is a record number of daily cases and it follows several days of triple-digit case numbers. We are saddened by the news that two more of our community members have died from this disease. We are seeing numerous clusters and wide community spread. Clusters are occurring in all areas of the community and common work-place activities like sharing lunch in workrooms and water cooler conversations. These are natural person-to-person contacts that occur every day. We are facing a critical situation that could get out of control very quickly."

     Regarding possible reinstatement of statewide restrictions and the interisland quarantine, Ige said, "We hope that these measures will help control the virus. But if things do not get better, we will have no choice but to look at more restrictions. This could include going back to the stay-at-home orders. It also means that we may have to delay trans-Pacific travel. I know that going backward will cause further harm to our economy, but we may have no choice. Before we can fix our economy, we need to fix our health. I know you're frustrated. Everyone wants our lives to return to normal. You have sacrificed so much, and I am asking you to sacrifice even more. Remember that taking personal responsibility is still the best way to fight COVID-19. You all know what to do. Wash your hands, wear your mask, avoid large gatherings, and stay home if you feel sick."

Onset of COVID-19 cases in the last 28 days, by zip code.

White is zero cases. Yellow is one to five cases. Light

orange is six to ten cases. Dark orange (not pictured)

is 11 to 20 cases. Red (not pictured) is 21 to 50 cases.

Hawaiʻi Department of Health map

     Lt. Gov. Josh Green addressed the spike in COVID-19 cases: "While our new record daily number of 355 cases is startling, the current trend in new cases and hospitalizations is even more so, particularly for O‘ahu... Today we have more than 150 currently hospitalized for COVID-19, and 258 cumulative to date. Major and acute care hospitals on O‘ahu are already transferring patients and expanding ICU capacity to accommodate the growing number of COVID-19 positive patients. Many are reaching ICU capacity. The biggest takeaway today is that the surge in cases is now seriously threatening to overwhelm our hospitals and it's coming fast. Individuals and our government need to mobilize now to drastically curb the spread of this virus and save lives."

     Statistics include: 137 out of 244 ICU beds, 56 percent, in the state are in use. Of the ICU beds in use, 29 are COVID-19 positive patients. Out of 459 ventilators, 73, 16 percent, are in use. Of the ventilators in use, 22 are COVID-19 positive patients. DOH reports at least 86 newly diagnosed cases are part of an existing cluster at the O‘ahu Community Correctional Facility. Health investigators say at least 116 cases are attributable to the facility, with 24 staff and 92 inmates having tested positive for COVID-19.

     DOH Deputy Director Danette Wong Tomiyasu also added, "Hawai‘i is at a critical juncture. We are receiving a record number of new positive cases. Clearly, we can do better. Hawai‘i's people deserve better. There is an urgent need to do things differently. We need to turn the tide to protect the health and wellbeing of Hawaiʻi residents and to reopen our state."
     On Oʻahu, the Institute for Human Services Sumner Men's Shelter in Iwilei is being temporarily established as a quarantine and isolation facility.

     Health Director Bruce Anderson, MD said, "With the virus actively being spread throughout the community on O‘ahu, congregate settings like prisons and institutions are at increased risk of introduction and should prepare as the Dept. of Public Safety and IHS have done. These agencies were ready and stepped into action quickly, working with the DOH on control and prevention measures to protect those at risk and the community. We extend our sincere condolences to the family and friends of the latest people to succumb to this disease."

Civil Defense Director 

Talmadge Magno.
Photo from Big Island Video News

     There are 13 active cases on Hawaiʻi Island, with a total of 139 since the pandemic began. At least one was recorded recently in Volcano, zip code 96785. No one is hospitalized from the virus. It has been more than 28 days since a case was recorded for a Kaʻū zip code. Since the pandemic began, no one died on this island. The 96740 zip code recorded between six and ten cases during the last 28 days.

     The state's new case total is 4,312 since the pandemic began. Oʻahu reported 3,900 cases, Maui County 198, and Kauaʻi 52. Twenty-three victims are residents diagnosed while visiting other places. Forty people in the state died from COVID-19.

     In his daily message, Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense Director Talmadge Magno said, "Do know that the State of Hawaiʻi has reinstated the 14-day quarantine for inter-island travel effective Tuesday, Aug. 11. This change was due to the high percentage of travel-related cases of Coronavirus in the State of Hawaiʻi. Information on the revised inter-island quarantine exemptions are available at the Civil Defense website or by calling Civil Defense at 935-0031. Please understand that there will be some problems with the transition from the State to the County handling the inter-island travel exemptions process. We appreciate your patience while we adjust the system to meet your needs.

     "The high increase of positive cases on Oʻahu have been identified as closely related to people disregarding the policies of gatherings, distancing and face coverings. This demonstrates how easy the virus can spread and the need of your help in following the policies of prevention. Thank you for doing your part to keep our neighbors, friends, family, and community safe. As a reminder, do know the wearing of face masks is mandatory on the Island of Hawaiʻi. Thank you for listening and have a safe day. This is your Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense Agency."

     COVID-19 case count in the U.S. is more than 5,236,599 – over 25 percent of worldwide cases. The death toll is more than 166,956 – over 22 percent of worldwide deaths. Worldwide, there are more than 20.73 million COVID-19 cases. The death toll is more than 751,887.

Read online at kaucalendar.com. See our Fresh Food on The Kaʻū Calendar 

directory for farms, ranches, takeout. Print edition of The Kaʻū Calendar is 

free, with 7,500 distributed on stands and to all postal addresses throughout 

Kaʻū, from Miloliʻi through Volcano throughout the district. Read online at 

kaucalendar.com and facebook.com/kaucalendar. To advertise your 

business or your social cause, contact kaucalendarads@gmail.com.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our Fresh Food on The Kaʻū Calendar and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

Daily, weekly, and monthly recurring Kaʻū and Volcano Events, Meetings, Entertainment, Exercise, Meditation, and more are listed at kaucalendar.com.

EVENTS
Writing for Inner Exploration and Life Reflection Workshop with author Tom Peek, Saturday, Aug. 15, 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. "Have you ever wondered how the place you come from influenced who you are? Or what memories you carry from your ancestors? Or how your personal history impacts your view of the world? Take a day out of your busy life to explore your deeper self and ponder the life you’ve lived so far." 
volcanoartcenter.org/events, 967-8222

Attend a Virtual Presentation about ʻAlalā, the endemic, endangered Hawaiian crow via Zoom on Tuesday, Aug. 18 at 1 p.m. Register in advance at https://hawaii.zoom.us/…/tJcocuGrrTwiGNDBJcyKZOB8cUqkjkbtN9…
A confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting will be sent. See alalaproject.org.

Give Input on Proposed Improvements to Miloliʻi Beach Park through Tuesday, Sept. 8. A draft Environmental Assessment is released by County of Hawai‘i Department of Parks and Recreation, which would update the park to comply with Americans with Disabilities Act guidelines; make improvements to the parking lot, boat ramp, walkways, playground, and basketball/volleyball courts; and replace the restrooms, water system, and hālau.

Introduction to Papermaking Workshop with Mary Milelzcik on Saturday, Sept. 12, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. This papermaking workshop, using a household blender, will introduce papermaking using recycled papers with various additives, including cotton linters, and local plant materials. volcanoartcenter.org/events, 967-8222

Catalyst Abstract Watercolor Workshop with Patti Pease Johnson on Saturday, Sept. 19, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. volcanoartcenter.org/events, 967-8222

Dine In or Order To Go Oktoberfest Meals from Crater Rim Café in Kīlauea Military Camp on Saturday, Sept. 19 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Menu offers Bratwurst, Knockwurst, Bockwurst, German Potato Salad, Sauerkraut, Tossed Salad, and German Chocolate Cake. $14.95 per person. Call 967-8356 to book reservation for dine-in or place a grab-and-go order. Face coverings and 6 feet social distancing are required in common areas. KMC is open to all authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees may apply.

ONGOING

Apply for a Crossing Guard Position at Nāʻālehu Elementary, to help keiki cross the street safely before and after school. Apply online at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/countyhawaii or contact Officer Torey Keltner of the Traffic Services Division at 961-2305 for more information.

St. Jude's Episcopal Church Soup Kitchen, open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., with a modified menu and increased health & safety standards. Hot showers, the computer lab, and in-person services and bible studies are suspended. Services and worship are posted online at stjudeshawaii.org. Join the Aloha Hour via Zoom at 11 a.m. on Sundays, us02web.zoom.us/j/6843449828?pwd=YW94djVvU0szOGNKaFZ1V0pUL1owUT09, Meeting ID: 684 344 9828, Password: Aloha.

The Food Basket, last Tuesday of the month, Aug. 25, provides food at St. Jude's to those in need. See hawaiifoodbasket.org.

On-Call Emergency Box Food Pantry, Cooper Center, weekdays from 8 a.m. to noon. Eligible one time every three months. Call Kehau, 443-4130.

Pāhala and Nāʻālehu Public Libraries, open for pick-up services. Nāʻālehu is open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9 a.m. to noon and 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Pāhala is open Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to noon and 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Library patrons schedule Library Take Out appointment times to pick up their hold item(s) at their favorite libraries by going to HSPLS Library Catalog and placing a hold on any item(s) they want to borrow, or they may call their favorite library branch to place a hold with the library staff. After receiving a notice that item(s) are ready for pick up, patrons schedule a Library Take Out time at picktime.com/hspls. For patrons who placed holds during the closure, their item(s) are ready for pickup after the patron schedules a Library Take Out appointment. For more information, visit librarieshawaii.org.

Free Book Exchanges, at the laundromats in Ocean View and Nāʻālehu, provided by Friends of the Kaʻū Libraries. Everyone is invited to take books they want to read. They may keep the books, pass them on to other readers, or return them to the Book Exchange to make them available to others in the community. The selection of books is replenished weekly at both sites.

Apply for Assistance through U.S. Department of Agriculture's Coronavirus Food Assistance Program. The deadline to submit an application is Friday, August 28. Visit farmers.gov/cfap for more information.

Avocado Growers Survey Open. Help identify opportunities for expanding the local avocado industry, to assist local farmers, buyers, and agencies develop strategies to bolster Hawaiʻi's avocado industry, says Hawaiʻi Farmers Union United. Farmers and farm names kept anonymous, results shared publicly. Survey completion gives option to register to win a $200 gift certificate to Home Depot. For a hard copy of the survey, email: info@growfruithawaii.com. Take the survey: surveymonkey.com/r/Hawaiiavosurvey2020.

Receive Help Over the Phone with Critical Financial Issues, through Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund Financial Navigators from County of Hawaiʻi, in partnership with Hawaiʻi First Federal Credit Union. Access these remote services by completing the webform at hawaiifirstfcu.com/community-resource-center or by calling 808-933-6600 to sign up. The Financial Navigator will then send a short service agreement and call the client to begin their personal session. Organizations across the County can also refer clients directly to a Financial Navigator. For more information, contact Sharon Hirota at 808-961-8019.

Find Resources for LGBTQ+, Loved Ones, and Allies at Sexual and Gender Minority online resource hub. Hawaiʻi Department of Health's first website dedicated to LGBTQ+ resources. Developed by the Sexual and Gender Minority Workgroup in partnership with the DOH Harm Reduction Services Branch. Resources: Understanding the Pacific's alternative genders; Pronoun guide; Book lists for children and teens; ʻOhana support; and DOH data. For more information on joining the SGM Workgroup, email Thaddeus Pham at thaddeus.pham@doh.hawaii.gov. See health.hawaii.gov/harmreduction/sexual-gender-minority/sexual-and-gender-minorities-sgm-in-hawaii/.

Learn About Hawaiʻi's History & Culture through the Papakilo Database, a resource developed by The Office of Hawaiian Affairs. The Kahalo Center says database consists of "collections of data pertaining to historically and culturally significant places, events, and documents in Hawaiʻi's history. The purpose of this educational online repository is to increase the community's ability to preserve and perpetuate cultural and historical information and practices." See papakilodatabase.com.

Native Hawaiian Farmers and Ranchers urged to use U.S. Dept. of Ag On-Farm Market Directory. U.S. Office for American Indian, Alaskan Native, and Native Hawaiian Programs is developing a list of Native Hawaiian farmers willing to sell direct to consumers through the On-Farm Market Directory. On-farm markets are managed by a single farm operator that sells products on their farm, or on a property next to their farm. Some on-farm markets may also deliver or ship their goods directly to consumers. Visit the program website for more information and to register: ams.usda.gov/local-food-directories/onfarm.

Receive Free Marketing Assistance, for small businesses affected by COVID-19. Owners can receive free marketing assistance from Univeristy of Hawaiʻi-Hilo faculty and their senior class. They offer help with moving a business online, finding out more about the businesses' customers, analyzing marketing effectiveness, and providing customer service or website feedback. Visit https://bit.ly/2YvFxsl.

Find Grants and Loans Offered to Farmers and Ranchers, at oahuaca.org. The website has a new search feature to help find information that applies to the searcher.

Begin Learning Basics of Organic Farming, from two free modules of a virtual training program by the Organic Farming Research Foundation, the University of California Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education Program, and California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo. See https://kohalacenter.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=54bdd67c601f0c0d3ea430053&id=9e1691c22d&e=0e3fe20c1f.

Apply for Internships with Sen. Brian Schatz's office. Internships for undergrad, graduate, and law students are offered in the Honolulu and Washington D.C. offices. Applications are considered on a rolling basis year-round. Non-office internships are open for high school students to advocate in their communities. Applications due Sunday, Sept. 13. Schatz may also nominate exceptional students for appointment to the U.S. Service Academies. Applications due Friday, Oct. 23. See schatz.senate.gov/services.

Exhibition Hawaiʻi Nei Invitational: Nā ʻAumākua, runs through Saturday, Sept. 12. Also available to view online, view the exhibition in person the Gallery in the Park during normal gallery hours, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday. Free. The exhibition is a group exhibition will present works focusing on the theme of Nā ʻAumākua, family gods. VAC will not hold an opening reception on August 8th. volcanoartcenter.org/events, 967-8222

Volcano Art Center, Niʻaulani Campus in Volcano Village, open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., closed Saturday and Sunday. The Gallery in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is open Wednesday through Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed Monday and Tuesday. Virtual Shopping Appointments are offered at Volcano Art Center locations. Via Skype or FaceTime, a VAC associate helps customers browse the selection of artwork up close, and gives personalized tips and recommendations to help customers "find that perfect piece of locally made artwork, wherever you are in the world!" Book appointment online for $5 and VAC staff will help schedule a date and time at volcanoartcenter.org/shop. Shop the online gallery 24/7. Orders are shipped as regularly scheduled. Free local pickup is available.VAC now offers a Virtual Classroom, which features over 90 videos. volcanoartcenter.org/events, 967-8222

Guided Nature Walks through Nature Trail & Sculpture Garden, Mondays, 9:30 a.m. at Volcano Art Center Niʻaulani Campus in Volcano Village. No reservations for five or fewer – limited to ten people. Free; donations appreciated. Email programs@volcanoartcenter.org. Garden is open to walk through at one's own pace, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays. Free. volcanoartcenter.org/events, 967-8222

Health and Fitness Website for Kūpuna, 808b-fit.com, contains videos for kūpuna to play and move along with. There are videos for stretching, tai chi, yoga, dancing, dance fitness, bon dance, hula, chair dancing, and chair yoga.

Yoga with Emily Catey Weiss, Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. at Volcano Art Center Niʻaulani Campus in Volcano Village. Advanced registration required; $5 per class. volcanoartcenter.org/events, 967-8222

Volcano Farmers Market, Cooper Center, Volcano Village, open on Sundays from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m., with much local produce, island beef, and prepared foods. Call 808-967-7800.

Ocean View Community Market, open Saturdays and Wednesdays (starting next Wednesday, Aug. 12), 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., on the corner of Kona Drive and Highway 11, where Thai Grindz is located. New market location for vendors of the recently closed Ocean View Swap Meet. Managed by Mark Cocucci. Masks are mandatory. Limit of people is 100. Social distancing is required. Gate will be unlocked for vendors at 5:30 a.m. Vendors can show up without a reservation for now, with $15 dollars. Parking is in the upper lot; parking on the side of the road is prohibited. All vendors must provide their own sanitizer. All food vendors must have the permits required for the items that you are selling. Vendors and attendees are encouraged to carpool.

ʻO Kaʻū Kākou Market, in Nāʻālehu, open Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday, 8 a.m. to noon. The goal is no more than 50 customers on the grounds at a time. Vendor booths per day are limited to 25, with 30 feet of space between vendors. Masks and hand sanitizing are required to attend the market. Social distancing will be enforced. Contact Sue Barnett, OKK Market Manager, at 808-345-9374 (voice or text) or kaufarmer@aol.com for more and to apply to vend. See facebook.com/OKauKakouMarket.

See our Fresh Food on The Kaʻū Calendar directory for farms, ranches, takeout.

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