Ka‘ū News Briefs Saturday, October 28, 2017

Glow from a Mauna Loa lava flow lit up the night sky above Hilo on April 4, 1984. In this photo, captured from near
the Hilo airport, the flow front appears closer to the city than it actually was. Should a similar eruption occur in
the future, the U.S. Geological Survey’s lava flow inundation maps could help alleviate concern for residents
outside the identified inundation zone for a given flow. See Volcano Watch below. Photo by David Little

RICHARD ABBETT WILL RUN FOR COUNTY COUNCIL DISTRICT 6. The fisheries, natural resources, environment and green jobs advocate, who lives in Green Sands, ran against current council member Maile David in 2014. He said on Friday that he is ready to run again. "I want to see progress on many fronts."
        "For too long the needs of our district have gone unaddressed. While tourism is at a record high on the island, our rural areas are still beset with crime, unemployment and infrastructure needs, such as a second well in Ocean View," said Abbett.

Richard Abbett says he will run for County Council.
Photo by Julia Neal

       Concerning employment, Abbett said that attempting to balance new jobs with a sustainable economy for local people can lead to political division. "However, union jobs are not limited to traditional construction and manufacturing, like power plant incinerators and hotels." He said there is a growing green industry sector with good paying jobs. He pointed to solar and to the "island's solid waste stream, where there is opportunity to solve the problem even more urgently now than four years ago when I last ran."
     Abbett said that new products and services could be created through upcycling construction components. A green industries park could offer union and non-union jobs with training and apprenticeships. "Wealth from waste," is an opportunity, he said.
    Concerning development, Abbett advocates "Keeping Ka‘ū wild." He said, "We need to know how ecosystems work and that balance creates a diversity of species." He said that any development proposals for Ka‘ū should be addressed with a site visit by the County Planning Director before any consideration.
      Abbett also spoke for GMO labeling and against expansion of the military at Pohakuloa Training Area.    
       During his previous campaign, Abbett opposed candidates taking money and services from any lobbying group, from corporations to unions. He said, "I am taken aback that people took their money" and services. He promised that he would not accept airline tickets, hotel rooms, dining and training, by a super PAC or anyone else, even if campaign advisors urged him to "take the money" or consulting services. "I don't have to ask someone else about my integrity. I don't need another person to determine my integrity. I would not take money for that reason. I do not take lip for that reason," he said.

      Abbett has a college degree in public policy development and administration. He was President and CEO of the Washington state Council for the Washington, D. C. based Trout Unlimited, and also its Western Vice President. Trout Unlimited strives to conserve cold-water fisheries. He worked for the State of Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife as the state's Advocate for federal funding for habitat restoration for salmon. He was Northwest Regional Director of the Union Sportsmen's Alliance of the AFL-CIO.


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HABITAT RURAL HOUSING REPAIR LOANS ARE AVAILABLE IN KA‘Ū. Low income families whose homes have such challenges as a leaky roof, dripping pipes, termites and wood rot are eligible. Also eligible for funding are ramps for disabled homeowners in need of them.
      Habitat for Humanity Hawai‘i Island has the funds to to repair dilapidated low-income rural homes. Applicants must own and occupy the home, have income and assets not exceeding USDA Very Low Income guidelines for Hawai‘i County, have owned and occupied the home for at least a year before applying, have equity sufficient to cover the cost of repairs and be able to repay the no-interest loan over 20 years.

     The dwelling must be a legal structure located in a rural area (anywhere on island except Hilo) and have defects that pose a health or safety hazard to occupants or be in need of improvements to improve accessibility for a handicapped household member.
     Assistance is in the form of a no-interest loan repaid over 20 years.
     Repairs are performed by licensed general contractors hired by the homeowners.
     Loans are secured by mortgages and promissory notes.
     The program is funded by federal USDA Rural Development and Habitat for Humanity Hawai‘i Island and is being carried out as part Habitat's mission to provide safe, accessible affordable housing in Hawai‘i county.
     The Rural Housing Preservation Grant program is an equal opportunity program guided by regulations of USDA Rural Development and Habitat for Humanity International. Discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, ancestry/national origin, sex, physical or mental disability, marital status, age or HIV infection is prohibited by federal law and Habitat policy.
     For further information or to apply, call Mary Finley at 967-7230. She said that funding is limited and there is a time limit to complete repairs.

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NEWLY PUBLISHED USGS INUNDATION MAPS FOR MAUNA LOA are online, reports this weeks Volcano Watch, written by U.S. Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists:
     The primary goal of the U.S. Geological Survey’s Hawaiian Volcano Observatory is to provide scientific information to reduce risks due to volcanic and seismic activity. To this end, HVO scientists assess volcano hazards and inform the public and civic officials using media outlets, community forums, and other outreach activities.

Map shows the three communities on the west flank of Mauna Loa’s Southwest Rift Zone, 

Hawaiian Ocean View Estates, Kula Kai, and Hawaiian Ranchos subdivisions.

Topographic contours modified from U.S. Geological Survey 10-meter digital

elevation model. Contour interval, 1,000 feet. Detailed maps of inundation zones 

are online at https://pubs.er.usgs.gov/publication/sim3387. Map from HVO

     As an example, HVO has worked to keep Island of Hawaiʻi residents and visitors, as well as people around the world, informed about Kīlauea Volcano’s eruptive activity and hazards for more than three decades.

     An eruption on Mauna Loa is not imminent, but it will erupt again someday. When it does, many people, including emergency responders, will need to know which areas are threatened with lava inundation. Researchers at HVO have produced maps that will help Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense and other emergency managers identify people, property, and facilities at risk during future eruptions.

      Most of Mauna Loa’s eruptive fissures and vents are located at the summit of the volcano and along two rift zones that extend northeast and southwest from Moku‘āweoweo, the volcano’s summit caldera. A few vents, however, occur along radial fissures that extend primarily north and west from the summit.

      The bounding walls of Moku‘āweoweo create topographic barriers that should protect areas southeast and west of the caldera from lava flows erupted from within the caldera. But the barrier on the west side is rendered ineffective by the radial vents on the flanks of the volcano. For example, in 1859, an eruption from radial vents on the northwest flank of Mauna Loa produced lava flows that advanced to the ocean in eight days.

    Using detailed geologic mapping and modeling of how a fluid (in this case, lava) responds to surface topography, USGS-HVO constructed nine maps depicting 18 inundation zones on Mauna Loa. Each zone identifies a segment of the volcano that could erupt lava and send flows downslope.

     Colored regions on these maps show areas on the volcano’s flank that could potentially be covered by flows from future Mauna Loa eruptions. These eruptions could originate from the volcano’s summit, rift zones, or radial vents. It’s likely, however, that only part of a zone would be covered in a single eruption.

Revised Mauna Loa lava inundation zones, updated this year. Shaded relief is from U.S.
Geological Survey 10-meter digital elevation model. More detailed maps of inundation
zones are available online at https://pubs.er.usgs.gov/publication/sim3387
Map from HVO

      The inundation maps provide a good first-order understanding of specific areas that could be affected by Mauna Loa lava flows once a vent is identified. This information is critical for response planning.

      When a Mauna Loa eruption starts, the maps can help decision makers quickly identify communities, infrastructure, and roads between possible vent locations and the coast, facilitating more efficient and effective allocation of response resources. The public can also use the maps to consider where lava flows might go once an eruption starts.

      “Lava inundation zone maps for Mauna Loa, Island of Hawaiʻi,” published by the U.S. Geological Survey as Scientific Investigations Map 3387, comprises 10 sheets (maps) and an explanatory pamphlet. Sheet 1 is a map of the entire Island of Hawaiʻi with outlines showing the areas encompassed by the nine other maps. These nine sheets depict the 18 inundation zones for Mauna Loa. Guidelines on how to interpret the maps are provided in the accompanying pamphlet.

      The inundation zones identified on the maps are: Kaumana, Waiākea, and Volcano-Mountain View (Sheet 2); Kapāpala (Sheet 3); Pāhala, Punalu‘u, and Wood Valley (Sheet 4); Nā‘ālehu (Sheet 5); Kalae (Sheet 6); Hawaiian Ocean View Estates, Kapu‘a, and Miloli‘i (Sheet 7); Ho‘okena, Ka‘ohe, and Ka‘apuna (Sheet 8); Hōnaunau and Kealakekua (Sheet 9); and Puako (Sheet 10).

      The boundaries between inundation zones are approximate. The names given for each sheet are descriptive, and are meant to represent the larger geographic areas of potential lava inundation. Map scales vary from 1:45,000 to 1:85,000.
     See a booklet on the inundation zones at https://pubs.usgs.gov/sim/3387/sim3387_pamphlet.pdf.
See the detailed Mauna Loa Inundation Maps at https://pubs.er.usgs.gov/publication/sim3387.

     Visit the HVO website (https://volcanoes.usgs.gov/hvo) for past Volcano Watch articles, volcano updates and photos, recent earthquake info, and more. Call for summary updates at 808-967-8862 (Kīlauea) or 808-967-8866 (Mauna Loa). Email questions to askHVO@usgs.gov.

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Pick up the October edition of The Ka‘ū Calendar delivered
free to 5,500 mailboxes throughout Ka‘ū, from Miloli‘i 
through Volcano. Also available on stands throughout
the district. See it online now at kaucalendar.com 

JOIN RANGERS FOR A GUIDED HIKE, REALMS AND DIVISIONS OF KAHUKU, on Sunday, Oct. 29, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in the Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Experience the sense of place that evolves at the intersection of nature and culture on this moderately difficult two-mile, two-hour guided hike on the Kahuku Unit’s newest trail, Pu‘u Kahuku. Explore the realms and divisions of the traditional Hawaiian classification system at Kahuku. Bring a snack for the “talk story” segment of this hike. The event will also be offered Nov. 11 and Dec. 16.

NĀ‘ĀLEHU PUBLIC LIBRARY HOSTS A FALL COSTUME PIZZA PARTY on Halloween Day, Tuesday, Oct. 31, starting at 3 p.m.
     A Hawai‘i State Public Library System issued flyer states, "join us for fun, food and prizes at our annual Fall Costume Party - and this year it's a pizza party! Come in costume for an extra chance to win a prize!" The prize drawing will take place at 4 p.m.
    The event is free and open to all, though young children should be accompanied by a parent or adult caregiver.
    For more details, call 939-2442.

KA‘Ū FOOD PANTRY gives food to those in need on Tuesday, Oct. 31, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at St. Jude’s Episcopal Church in Ocean View.

OPEN MIC NIGHT AT KĪLAUEA MILITARY'S CAMP'S LAVA LOUNGE in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park is Wednesday, Nov. 1, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
     Call 967-8365 after 4 p.m. to sign up. The event is open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. 

     See kilaueamilitarycamp.com for more.

HAWAI‘I COUNTY COUNCIL MEETS WEDNESDAY, NOV. 1, and Thursday, Nov. 2. Participate via videoconferencing at Nā‘ālehu State Office Building. Agendas at hawaiicounty.gov.

HULA VOICES, moderated by Desiree Moana Cruz, Kumu hula Iwalani Kalmia of Hula Hālau O Kou Lima Nani E presents her hula experiences. The event takes place on Thursday, Nov. 2, from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Volcano Art Center Gallery in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Free; park entrance fees apply. For more, visit volcanoartcenter.org.

THE NEXT OCEAN VIEW BLOCK WATCH MEETING will be held Thursday, Nov. 2, at 6 p.m. at Ocean View Community Center. All are invited and the organization will entertain nominations and elect officers. For more, call 939-7033.

NATURE WORKS EVERYWHERE GRANT APPLICATION DEADLINE is Friday, Nov. 3. Applications are open for public/charter schools to build or maintain a Nature Works Everywhere school garden, greenspace or green infrastructure project. For more, visit NatureWorksEverywhere.org/#grants.
     See Ka‘ū News Briefs from Thursday, Sept. 14.

A THREE-DAY WORKSHOP, MANDALA MOSAIC, teaches basic glass cutting techniques as well as specialized pattern-cutting skills with Volcano Art Center guest artist Mark Brody. The program takes place Friday, Nov. 3, through Sunday, Nov. 5, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Volcano Art Center in Volcano Village.
     Class limited to 10 people, 15 years +. $225/$200 VAC members, plus $25 material fee. All students receive free $25 valued substrate at workshops end. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

VOLUNTEERS ARE NEEDED TO HELP REMOVE INVASIVES that prevent native plants from growing in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. This Stewardship at the Summit event is Friday, Nov. 3, at 8:45 a.m.
     To join the effort, meet project leaders Paul and Jane Field at Kīlauea Visitor Center. Volunteers should wear sturdy hiking shoes and long pants and bring a hat, rain-gear, day pack, snacks and water. Gloves and tools will be provided. No advance registration is required, and there is no cost to participate, but park entrance fees apply. Visit the park website for additional planning details: nps.gov/havo/planyourvisit/summit_stewardship.htm. More events are planned for Nov. 11 (fee-free day), 18 and 25.

A FUNDRAISER FOR KĪLAUEA DRAMA & ENTERTAINMENT NETWORK, which is in production for A Gilbert & Sullivan Christmas Carol is held at Amalfatano's Italian Restaurant in Waiakea Villas on Friday, Nov. 3, starting at 6 p.m. The featured menu includes a pasta dish, eggplant parmesan, lasagna, pizza, and an Italian salad. Ice tea is included in the meal. The cost is $20. Diners are welcome to bring a bottle of wine or other beverages to consume.

      Reservations for the fundraiser are not necessary, but suggested. Call KDEN at 982-7344 or email kden73@aol.com to make a reservation or for more information on A Gilbert & Sullivan Christmas Carol.
     See Ka‘ū News Briefs from Thursday, Oct. 26.

CU HAWAI‘I FEDERAL CREDIT UNION IS OFFERING EMPLOYMENT as a Member Service Representative in Nā‘ālehu. CU Hawai‘i seeks energetic individuals for full time positions who enjoy working with people and can provide professional, courteous and efficient service to valued members.
     The ideal candidate must be service oriented and possess good communication and computer skills. Cash handling and customer service experience is preferred. Must be able to work Saturdays. CU Hawai‘i offers medical, drug, dental, vision and retirement benefits.
     Email, mail or fax application to: Attn: Human Resources, 476 Hinano Street Hilo, HI 96720, Fax: (808) 935-7793. Applications can be found online at cuhawaii.com/careers.html.

kaucalendar.com/TheDirectory_2017

Ka‘ū News Briefs Friday, October 27, 2017

Hilaria Panglao, President of the Pāhala Filipino Community Association, and Leoveguildo "Hildo" Mercado, last
of the living Sakada immigrants who led the way to Ka‘ū to work in the sugar industry. Mercado came from Cabugao,
Ilocos Sur, which on Friday became a sister city with Hawai‘i County. Thursday evening, Pāhala welcomed the Mayor
of Cabugao and his contingent for a dinner and fellowship at Pāhala Community Center. Photo by Julia Neal

THE MAYOR OF THE NEW SISTER CITY CABUGAO, Ilocos Sur in the Philippines, enjoyed a welcome and a feast put on by the Pāhala Filipino community Thursday evening. Mayor Josh Edward Cobangbang, the youngest mayor ever to be elected in the Philippines - at age 21, arrived with Cabugao City Council Members Danilo Gazmen, Viky Serna, Jemaima Tan-Yee, M.D. and Josefina S. Valljo. Student Julienn Ubungen accompanied the goodwill party.

The youngest mayor in Philippines history,

Josh Cabangbang with Ka‘ū's County

Council member Maile David.

Photo by Julia Neal

     County Council member Maile David emceed and co-sponsored the event with Hilaria Panglao, President of the Pāhala Filipino Community Association. The Filipino Mayor said, "Hawai‘i Island is my second home." He promised cultural and economic activity between the sister cities. Generations ago, Cabugao became the main portal for Filipinos seeking work in Hawai‘i's sugar industry. Its port is the place where families said goodbye in 1946 to the Sakada - workers headed across the Pacific to Hawai‘i. Leoveguildo "Hildo" Mercado, the last living Sakada in Ka‘ū, greeted the delegation from Cabugao.
     Members of the sister city delegation said that a museum is planned in Cabugao to honor the Sakada. They sang a folk song commemorating the families who sent the workers from Cabugao to Hawai‘i, hoping they would someday return home. Many people living in Ka‘ū have roots in Cabagao, having chosen to stay in Hawai‘i.
     Like Pāhala, Cabugao has a deep tradition in agriculture. There, small family farms grow food to sell at markets. It is also famous for its bamboo, and family workshop, bamboo furniture making. Its deep port has been used for trading since ancient times.

Visiting Cabugao student Julienn Ubungen

with Miss Ka‘ū Coffee Peaberry Jasmine

Navarro. Photo by Julia Neal

     Hawai‘i County Council member Susan Lee Loy also attended and praised the agricultural life, shared by Cabuago and Pāhala, especially the traditions honoring culture, history and hard work. She recalled a saying dedicated to remembering those who came before: "We sit in the shade of trees we did not plant," said the councilwoman.
     The emissaries were entertained by Kūpuna ‘O Pāhala Hula Hālau, Junior Miss Ka‘ū Coffee Kalaysa Koi, Miss Ka‘ū Coffee Peaberry Jasmine Navarro, Miss Ka‘ū Coffee Flower Evalyn Ornelas and First Miss Ka‘ū Coffee Flower Princess Liliana Marques, along with musicians Calvin Ponce and Chase Cabudal.

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SEN. MAZIE HIRONO announced a survey on Friday to find out what her constituents think about Pres. Donald Trump. She spared no words in penning her own opinion, but said she wants to know the views of Hawai‘i resdients.
     Her view: "In his time in office, Trump has put nearly everything we care about at risk – from health care and education to reproductive rights and our environment. He’s shown time and time again that serving the American people is his last priority. He isn’t fighting for us, and he’ll do nothing to help bring our country together.

Goodwill group from Cabugao, Ilocos Sur, Philippines arrived to seal

the Sister City relationship. Photo by Julia Neal

     "That’s why I’m standing with my Democratic colleagues in the Senate as a firewall against Trump’s most dangerous, ugliest policies. We’re working to create opportunities for all Americans and make real changes that will improve their lives.
     "We know that bringing our country together will be up to us – all of us. I’ll always fight for you, but I want to hear where you stand: Will you take a brief survey to share your thoughts on Donald Trump’s presidency with me? You can use this link: surveys.signforgood.com/hirono-trump-survey," said Hirono.

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THE STATE PUBLIC OPTION ACT for health care was introduced into the U.S. Senate this week by Hawai‘i Sen. Brian Schatz and Rep. Ben Rau Lujan, of New Mexico.

Gloria Camba, President of the Ka‘ū

Coffee Growers Cooperative, and

Margarette Ann Cabudol danced with

their hālau. Photo by Julia Neal

     Said Schatz, "When Republicans tried to repeal Obamacare, people across the country fought back and demanded the Senate protect their health care. Even though it was critical that millions of Americans were able to stay on their insurance, the reality is nearly 30 million people are still uninsured while others are left struggling to pay expensive premiums."
    Schatz said the State Public Option Act will "build on the success of the Affordable Care Act and move us closer to universal coverage. He asked all those interested to add their named to become "a citizen co-sponsor of my State Public Option Act. This bill allows millions of Americans to get the high-quality coverage they need without going broke."
     The Senator explained that the State Public Option Act would allow all Americans the opportunity to buy into Medicaid, "our country’s most efficient health care program." Schatz said his plan "Expands Medicaid from covering low-income and disabled Americans to allowing all Americans to buy into the program."
     He contended that the legislation "moves us closer to universal coverage by allowing states to establish a Medicaid public option." He said it would give individuals insured through their employer or any other private insurer an opportunity to stay on their current insurance plan.
     "The majority of Americans believe health care is a human right, not just a privilege for the few," said Schatz. "We acknowledge that although Obamacare is imperfect, it is keeping millions of people alive. We know people across this country agree that it’s unreasonable for anyone living in the richest country on earth to have to choose between caring for themselves or a loved one -- or going broke.

Chase Cabudol and Calvin Ponce, both with Filipino heritage,

offered songs for the visiting dignitaries. Photo by Julia Neal

     "But as we’ve seen before, large insurance companies, powerful drug companies, and lobbyists are not going to stop their efforts to repeal Obamacare. That’s why we need to go on the offensive and present ideas now before Republicans gear up their attacks again."
     Schatz promised that he "will do everything I can in hearings and on the Senate floor to fight for a health care system that works for all Americans." He provided a link to sign up to support his bill: State Public Option Act.     The Atlantic magazine published an article on Wednesday saying that Bernie Sanders, who is sponsoring his own Health Care for All bill, likes the Schatz idea, and that Schatz also approves of the Sanders plan. Another two Senators introduced a Medicare-X Bill. Schatz told The Atlantic that a range of ideas is needed to protect health care for the middle class and most vulnerable.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter.

Pick up the October edition of The Ka‘ū Calendar delivered

free to 5,500 mailboxes throughout Ka‘ū, from Miloli‘i 

through Volcano. Also available on stands throughout

the district. See it online now at kaucalendar.com

HIKE TO THE TOP OF THE GRASSY CINDER CONE PU‘U O LOKUANA from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.on Saturday, Oct. 28, with a ranger in the Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. The hike is a short 0.4 miles. Learn about the formation and various uses of this hill over time and enjoy a breathtaking view of lower Ka‘ū. This hike will also take place on Nov. 5.

KEIKI STAINED GLASS WORKSHOP FOR BEGINNERS takes place at the Volcano Art Center Saturday, Oct. 28, and Sunday, Oct. 29, from 9 a.m. to noon. The class is geared towards keiki ages 11 to 13.
Class fee is $50 for VAC members, $55 for non-members, plus a $10 supply fee. Space limited, pre-registration necessary. For more info or to register, call 967-8222 or visit volcanoartcenter.org. Read more about the event on Ka‘ū News Briefs published Wed, Oct. 25.

JOIN RANGERS FOR A GUIDED HIKE, REALMS AND DIVISIONS OF KAHUKU, on Sunday, Oct. 29, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in the Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Experience the sense of place that evolves at the intersection of nature and culture on this moderately difficult two-mile, two-hour guided hike on the Kahuku Unit’s newest trail, Pu‘u Kahuku. Explore the realms and divisions of the traditional Hawaiian classification system at Kahuku. Bring a snack for the “talk story” segment of this hike. The event will also be offered Nov. 11 and Dec. 16.

NĀ‘ĀLEHU PUBLIC LIBRARY HOSTS A FALL COSTUME PIZZA PARTY on Halloween Day, Tuesday, Oct. 31, starting at 3 p.m.
A Hawai‘i State Public Library System issued flyer states, "join us for fun, food and prizes at our annual Fall Costume Party - and this year it's a pizza party! Come in costume for an extra chance to win a prize!" The prize drawing will take place at 4 p.m.
The event is free and open to all, though young children should be accompanied by a parent or adult caregiver.
For more details, call 939-2442.

KA‘Ū FOOD PANTRY gives food to those in need on Tuesday, Oct. 31, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at St. Jude’s Episcopal Church in Ocean View.

OPEN MIC NIGHT AT KĪLAUEA MILITARY'S CAMP'S LAVA LOUNGE in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park is Wednesday, Nov. 1, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Call 967-8365 after 4 p.m. to sign up. The event is open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply.
See kilaueamilitarycamp.com for more.

HAWAI‘I COUNTY COUNCIL MEETS WEDNESDAY, NOV. 1, and Thursday, Nov. 2. Participate via videoconferencing at Nā‘ālehu State Office Building. Agendas at hawaiicounty.gov.

HULA VOICES, moderated by Desiree Moana Cruz, Kumu hula Iwalani Kalmia of Hula Hālau O Kou Lima Nani E presents her hula experiences. The event takes place on Thursday, Nov. 2, from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Volcano Art Center Gallery in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Free; park entrance fees apply. For more, visit volcanoartcenter.org.

THE NEXT OCEAN VIEW BLOCK WATCH MEETING will be held Thursday, Nov. 2, at 6 p.m. at Ocean View Community Center. All are invited and the organization will entertain nominations and elect officers. For more, call 939-7033.

CU HAWAI‘I FEDERAL CREDIT UNION IS OFFERING EMPLOYMENT as a Member Service Representative in Nā‘ālehu. CU Hawai‘i seeks energetic individuals for full time positions who enjoy working with people and can provide professional, courteous and efficient service to valued members.
The ideal candidate must be service oriented and possess good communication and computer skills. Cash handling and customer service experience is preferred. Must be able to work Saturdays. CU Hawai‘i offers medical, drug, dental, vision and retirement benefits.
Email, mail or fax application to: Attn: Human Resources, 476 Hinano Street Hilo, HI 96720, Fax: (808) 935-7793. Applications can be found online at cuhawaii.com/careers.html.

kaucalendar.com/TheDirectory_2017

Ka‘ū News Briefs Thursday, October 26, 2017

Rep. Tulsi Gabbard co-authored the OFF ACT, cosponsored by 14 members of Congress and supported by
hundreds of environmental and social justice groups. Photo from Office of Tulsi Gabbard

OFF FOSSIL FUELS FOR A BETTER FUTURE was a message to Congress Thursday. Reps. Tulsi Gabbard Barbara Lee, and Nanette Diaz Barragán joined Food & Water Watch, first responders, non-profit organizations, and local government officials to urge Members of Congress to pass the OFF Act to Combat Climate Change. H.R. 3671 would help transition the United States to a 100 percent clean energy economy by 2035.
     “Our country cannot passively standby while we watch the climate crisis devastate our planet and the livelihoods of working families across the country and the world. It is our obligation to protect the most vulnerable in our society, to protect our planet, to grow the economy and rebuild America’s infrastructure with a stable, domestic clean energy economy. Congress must pass the OFF Act to end our addiction to fossil fuels and transition the country to a clean energy economy by 2035,” said Gabbard.

    She said her bill "prioritizes the health and wellbeing of the country and the future of the planet by tackling the climate change crisis head on and building on the progress of states like Hawai‘i." The OFF Act sets an ambitious timeline to end America’s reliance on fossil fuels by 2035 "to avert the catastrophic effects of climate change that have exacerbated natural disasters like the recent hurricanes that devastated Texas, Louisiana, Florida, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands and deadly wildfires in California," said Gabbard.
      "Without urgent action, climate change will continue to intensify and accelerate the pace of extreme weather events that devastate coastal and low-lying communities causing widespread unemployment, wage stagnation, and deadly health problems, which disproportionately affect low-income, minority, Native Hawaiian and Native American families. This legislation protects the country’s most vulnerable populations from the harmful effects of carbon emissions and toxic chemicals that pollute America’s air, land and waterways by strengthening civil rights protections, creating clean energy jobs, and prioritizing the safety and security of the planet above profits for major corporations and the fossil fuels industry," she said.

    Gabbard contended that passing the OFF Act to transition the country away from fossil fuels to a clean energy economy, "will increase America’s global competitiveness by creating domestic clean technologies, jobs, and training programs. In addition, this legislation will improve the health and wellbeing of the American people and our planet from toxic pollutants, asthma and respiratory illnesses, and environmental degradation."
     The OFF Act is cosponsored by 14 Members of Congress and has been endorsed by nearly four hundred clean energy, climate change, and environmental justice organizations.

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THE PUBLIC ACCESS ROOM AT THE STATE CAPITOL is offering citizens training to help them interact with government, especially leading up to the 2018 Hawai‘i Legislature.

     A statement from Hawai‘i Public Access Room asks, "Are you interested in learning how laws are made in Hawai‘i? Do you have an idea for a law, or just want to let your legislators know what you’d like them to focus on next session?" Several opportunities to learn learn about the legislative process and how to participate will be provided at the Your Voice workshop on Wednesday, Nov. 8, from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawai‘i training room near the Kona Airport, and on Thursday, Nov. 9, from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Hawai‘i Community College Manoa Campus Building 379, Room 1 in Hilo. Both events are free to attend.

     The presentation provides information on the State Legislature and legislative process, and includes tips and tools that citizens can use to effectively communicate with lawmakers. The workshop is designed to be helpful to newcomers and seasoned advocates alike. It features:

· Tips and techniques on effective lobbying, testimony, and communicating with State Senators and Representatives
· Understanding the legislative process, deadlines, and power dynamics at the Capitol
· An opportunity to learn more about easy to use tools available on the Legislature’s website
· Helpful handouts, guides, and resources
     For additional information, contact the Public Access Room (PAR):
phone (808)587-0478, email par@capitol.hawaii.gov, or visit LRBhawaii.org/PAR.
    PAR is a division of the Hawai‘i State Legislature’s non-partisan Legislative Reference Bureau.

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A FUNDRAISER FOR KĪLAUEA DRAMA & ENTERTAINMENT NETWORK, which is in production for A Gilbert & Sullivan Christmas Carol was announced Thursday. The fundraiser will be held at Amalfatano's Italian Restaurant in Waiakea Villas on Friday. Nov. 3, starting at 6 p.m. The featured menu includes a pasta dish, eggplant parmesan, lasagna, pizza, and an Italian salad. Ice tea is included in the meal. The cost is $20. Diners are welcome to bring a bottle of wine or other beverages to consume.

Kīlauea Drama and Entertainment Network involves all ages and cultures in the community for
theater and music productions including The King & I (above) and currently in production for
A Gilbert & Sullivan Christmas Carol. A fundraiser will be held Nov. 3. Photo from KDEN

     KDEN is a 501(c)3 non-profit community theater company that has been presenting productions at Kīlauea Military Camp's Kīlauea Theater for the past 15 years. The mission is to promote quality community theater in East Hawai‘i by involving the community in all aspects of the production process.
     A Gilbert & Sullivan Christmas Carol is another look at the Christmas classic with the bonus of Gilbert & Sullivan music. The show uses songs from many of the Gilbert & Sullivan operettas. Three ghosts will sing Three Little Maids from School from The Mikado but with lyrics that suit the show.

Pick up the October edition of The Ka‘ū Calendar delivered
free to 5,500 mailboxes throughout Ka‘ū, from Miloli‘i 
through Volcano. Also available on stands throughout
the district. See it online now at kaucalendar.com 

    The story is by Charles Dickens, music by Arthur Sullivan, and words by Gayden Wren (inspired by W.S. Gilbert).
      Reservations for the fundraiser are not necessary, but suggested. Call KDEN at 982-7344 or email kden73@aol.com to make a reservation or for more information on A Gilbert & Sullivan Christmas Carol.

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COFFEE TALK in the Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National park takes place Friday, Oct. 27, from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. Join rangers and other community members in an informal conversation on a wide variety of topics. Ka‘ū coffee, tea and pastries available for purchase. Free.

VOLUNTEERS ARE NEEDED TO HELP REMOVE INVASIVE PLANTS in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. This Stewardship at the Summit event is Friday, Oct. 27, at 9 a.m.
     To join the effort, meet project leaders Paul and Jane Field at Kīlauea Visitor Center at 8:45 a.m. Volunteers should wear sturdy hiking shoes and long pants and bring a hat, rain-gear, day pack, snacks and water. Gloves and tools will be provided. No advance registration is required, and there is no cost to participate, but park entrance fees apply. Visit the park website for additional planning details:  nps.gov/havo/planyourvisit/summit_stewardship.htm.

OCEAN VIEW COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT CORP. meets Friday, Oct. 27, at 5 p.m. in Hawaiian Ranchos office.

VENDOR APPLICATIONS ARE DUE FRIDAY, OCT. 27, for community members interested in hosting a booth at the Ho‘okupu Hula No Ka‘ū Cultural Festival on Saturday, Nov. 4, at Pāhala Community Center, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. The event is sponsored by Uhane Pohaku Na Moku O Hawai'i, Inc., the festival is directed by Kumu Hula Debbie Ryder, who teaches hula on Wednesday evenings to all ages at Pāhala Community Center.
     There are openings for craft vendors, food vendors, informational booths, and game vendors for children. Craft vendors fee is $50.00. Food vendors fee is $75.00. Game Vendors fee is $50.00. Informational booths are free. Call 649-9334 for an application.

A HALLOWEEN PARTY FOR ADULTS is offered at Kīlauea Military Camp’s Lava Lounge in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park on Friday, Oct. 27, from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. Attendees must be 21 years and older and must pay a cover charge of $5 per person. The event is open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. For more, call 967-8365 after 4 p.m.

THE NATURE CONSERVANCY is accepting reservations for a volunteer day at the Ka‘ū Preserve for Saturday, Oct. 28, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Reserving a spot in advance to go to the remote location in The Nature Conservancy's trucks is necessary. Anyone interested in more information, and/or to reserve a spot can contact Linda Schubert at lschubert@tnc.org, or call 443-5401.

     The following volunteer workday will be Saturday, Nov. 18, at TNC's Kona Hema Preserve from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

HIKE TO THE TOP OF THE GRASSY CINDER CONE PU‘U O LOKUANA from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 28, with a ranger in the Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. The hike is a short 0.4 miles. Learn about the formation and various uses of this hill over time and enjoy a breathtaking view of lower Ka‘ū. This hike will also take place on Nov. 5.

KEIKI STAINED GLASS WORKSHOP FOR BEGINNERS takes place at the Volcano Art Center Saturday, Oct. 28, and Sunday, Oct. 29, from 9 a.m. to noon. The class is geared towards keiki ages 11 to 13.
    Class fee is $50 for VAC members, $55 for non-members, plus a $10 supply fee. Space limited, pre-registration necessary. For more info or to register, call 967-8222 or visit volcanoartcenter.org. Read more about the event on Ka‘ū News Briefs published Wed, Oct. 25.

JOIN RANGERS FOR A GUIDED HIKE, REALMS AND DIVISIONS OF KAHUKU, on Sunday, Oct. 29, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in the Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Experience the sense of place that evolves at the intersection of nature and culture on this moderately difficult two-mile, two-hour guided hike on the Kahuku Unit’s newest trail, Pu‘u Kahuku. Explore the realms and divisions of the traditional Hawaiian classification system at Kahuku. Bring a snack for the “talk story” segment of this hike. The event will also be offered Nov. 11 and Dec. 16.

NĀ‘ĀLEHU PUBLIC LIBRARY HOSTS A FALL COSTUME PIZZA PARTY on Halloween Day, Tuesday, Oct. 31, starting at 3 p.m.
     A Hawai‘i State Public Library System issued flyer states, "join us for fun, food and prizes at our annual Fall Costume Party - and this year it's a pizza party! Come in costume for an extra chance to win a prize!" The prize drawing will take place at 4 p.m.
    The event is free and open to all, though young children should be accompanied by a parent or adult caregiver.
    For more details, call 939-2442.

KA‘Ū FOOD PANTRY gives food to those in need on Tuesday, Oct. 31, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at St. Jude’s Episcopal Church in Ocean View.

HAWAI‘I COUNTY COUNCIL MEETS WEDNESDAY, NOV. 1, and Thursday, Nov. 2. Participate via videoconferencing at Nā‘ālehu State Office Building. Agendas at hawaiicounty.gov.

OPEN MIC NIGHT AT KĪLAUEA MILITARY'S CAMP'S LAVA LOUNGE in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park is Wednesday, Nov. 1, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
     Call 967-8365 after 4 p.m. to sign up. The event is open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. 

     See kilaueamilitarycamp.com for more.

CU HAWAI‘I FEDERAL CREDIT UNION IS OFFERING EMPLOYMENT as a Member Service Representative in Nā‘ālehu. CU Hawai‘i seeks energetic individuals for full time positions who enjoy working with people and can provide professional, courteous and efficient service to valued members.
     The ideal candidate must be service oriented and possess good communication and computer skills. Cash handling and customer service experience is preferred. Must be able to work Saturdays. CU Hawai‘i offers medical, drug, dental, vision and retirement benefits.
     Email, mail or fax application to: Attn: Human Resources, 476 Hinano Street Hilo, HI 96720, Fax: (808) 935-7793. Applications can be found online at cuhawaii.com/careers.html.

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