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Wednesday, March 28, 2018

Ka‘ū News Brief Wednesday, March 28, 2018

Hōkūle‘a has rescheduled its Miloli‘i visit to Saturday, April 28, after visiting Kona and Hilo. The crew planned to make Miloli‘i its first stop on its Mahalo
Mahalo Sail, but bad weather last weekend delayed the voyage and she headed to Kona early this week. See story below. Photo by Peter Anderson
THE SPINLAUNCH SPACEPORT funding is going to a state Senate Ways & Means public hearing tomorrow. The idea of placing it in Kaʻū has drawn comment from local legislators in an article in Civil Beat by Alan McNarie. Regarding a possible site near Pohu‘e Bay, Sen. Russell Ruderman told Civil Beat, "I'm very tired of people who don't live on the Big Island talking about putting things here and not talking about it with the community." According to the article, Ruderman asked, "Did they put up any notices in the community? Did they try at all to connect with the community? They (Kaʻū residents) have rejected rocket launch facilities three times in the past. We don't want it and we are resentful that things keep getting proposed for our community without talking to us."
     Ruderman told McNarie that his biggest concern is "the environmental impact and the impact on the community which has tried so hard to keep its character, which is healthy and clean and agriculturally oriented."
     Sen. Josh Green also turned thumbs down on the project, according to Civil Beat.
     Rep. Richard Creagan told Civil Beat: "I don't feel that the people in Kaʻū have been adequately briefed on this project. Big Island people want us to focus more on health care, affordable housing, drug treatment and homeless solutions." Creagan also commented on the proposed technology, which would be a centrifuge device with an arm spinning thousands of miles an hour and flinging the payload into space. "If they disintegrate at that kind of speed, you'd better have a strong containment area," said Creagan.

Rep. Richard Creagan
Sen. Russell Ruderman
Sen. Josh Green

     The article said Ruderman also expressed concerns about the unproven technology. The Civil Beat reporter wrote, “No payload has ever entered orbit via anything but a rocket." The story says that Ruderman and Creagan “suspect that even if the Legislature authorizes the bonds, they still won’t make it past the State Office of Budget and Finance’s vetting process given all the technical and financial unknowns that surround the project."
     The McNarie article in Civil Beat notes that the O‘ahu Senator who introduced the funding bill for SpinLaunch into the Hawai‘i Legislature has backed off on the Pohu‘e Bay location. "Initial reports had named Pohu‘e Bay in Kaʻū as the likely site, but after hearing from local kupuna, Wakai said he'd advised SpinLaunch to look elsewhere: 'They understand that Pohu‘e Bay is full of cultural and historic features and environmental issues that might be difficult for them to overcome. I was telling them that there might be possibilities between Ocean View and Miloli‘i,'" Wakai told Civil Beat.
     See more testimony from Kaʻū residents in Thursday's Kaʻū News Briefs. To testify, go to HB2559.

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HŌKŪLE‘A SAILED TO HAWAI‘I ISLAND March 26, but bypassed Miloli'i due to a weather delay. The 63-foot Polynesian Voyaging Canoe is moored in the bay off Kona Pier. Hōkūle‘a is scheduled to sail to  Miloli‘i on Saturday, April 28 and the crew will welcome the public. The Mahalo Sail features five weeks of public education around the island - events to be announced as scheduled - see Hōkūle‘a's crew's Facebook for updates.

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Effects of invasive coconut rhinoceros beetle. Photo from DLNR
$3.7 MILLION IN FEDERAL FUNDING TO FIGHT INVASIVE SPECIES and Support Hawai‘i Agriculture have been appropriated, Sen. Mazie Hirono reports from Washington, D.C.
     "Invasive pests continue to threaten the livelihood of Hawai‘i farmers and future of our agriculture industry," Hirono said. "This funding will advance research focused on the eradication of several invasive pests and pathogens, as well as provide additional resources to protect our environment and agriculture crops from invasive species that are not currently found in Hawai‘i."
     "Biosecurity is one of Hawai‘i’s top priorities for our agricultural industry," Nicholas Comerford, PhD, Dean and Director of the University of Hawai‘i College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources said. "This funding will assist the University of Hawai‘i’s College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources in providing prevention, detection, and mitigation of unwanted invasive species and therefore protect agriculture, along with Hawai‘i’s fragile island ecosystem and community."
     The eight projects are funded through Section 10007 of the Fiscal Year 2014 Farm Bill, for which Hirono led on a letter to the USDA in support of strong federal support, last year.
Invasive little fire ants. Photo from littlefireants.com
     The $3.7 million in USDA funding will be allocated to the following projects: $1.3 million to support coconut rhinoceros beetle (CRB) eradication activities in Hawaii; $980,000 to identify and use predatory insects for biological control and to develop other tools to address the CRB, as well as to mitigate the impact of other harmful plant pests such as tephritid species and the coffee berry borer; $643,000 to develop or enhance plant pest and disease diagnostic and identification technologies for exotic fruit flies, fruit piercing moth, and Dickeya species of pests; $233,000 to develop a compendium reference publication on fruit fly host commodities; $232,000 for x-ray equipment supporting Hawaii pre-departure agricultural inspections of commercial air passengers; $123,000 to survey for harmful invasive mollusks and solanaceous vegetable crop pathogens; $138,000 to support increased awareness about invasive ants and CRB in Hawaii; and $44,000 to support National Clean Plant Network foundation plant stocks for sweet potato.
Invasive fruit flies. Photo from hawaii.gov
     These projects, which will be carried out by both federal and state agencies as well as academia and non-profits, illustrate the important role that federal partnerships play in protecting Hawaii’s unique environment and agricultural industry. "Prevention, early detection, and rapid response are critical to fighting invasive pests and diseases and these funds will help advance those efforts throughout the state," states Hirono.

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VENDORS ARE SOUGHT FOR FUNDRAISING BAZAAR at Kauaha‘ao Congregational Church in Wai‘ohinu on Saturday, April 14, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., on the church grounds. The church is located on the corner of Mamalahoa Hwy, Kamaoa Road and Pinao Street, just above the Wong Yuen Store.
     Individuals, schools, clubs, and sports/athletic groups are invited to be vendors at the "flea market." 10' x 10' spaces are $10. Vendors are responsible for bringing their own tents, tables, chairs, and - if power is needed - generators. Vendors can sell anything except hot foods/plate lunches.
     The Church will sell Smoke Meat bowls, Roast Chicken Bowls, plus baked goods and produce, and there will be a "rummage" table.
     To reserve a vendor space or for more info, call Walter or Debbie at 928-8039 in the evening.

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LUCIA TARALLO OFFERS A FREE LECTURE, THE LAST TRUTH, on Saturday, Mar. 31, at 3 p.m., announces Volcano Art Center. The event honors the opening day of a new exhibition, Ho‘oku‘i i nā Kiko: Connecting the Dots, at the Volcano Art Center Gallery in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park.
     An opening reception for the exhibit, where the public is invited to view the mixed media artwork on display by Hawai‘i Island artists Natalie Mahina Jensen and Tarallo, follows. Free; park entrance fees apply. Visit volcanoartcenter.org for more.

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KA‘Ū TROJANS GIRLS SOFTBALL had a great game yesterday, March 27, against Pāhoa. The girls showed great skill in ending the game with 20 runs, while their opponents were left in the dust at zero.
     Next girls softball game is scheduled for tomorrow, March 29. See full schedule, below.

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

See public Ka‘ū events, meetings, entertainment at kaucalendar.com
/janfebmar/februaryevents.htmlSee Ka‘ū exercise, meditation, daily, 
February print edition of The Ka‘ū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes 
throughout Ka‘ū, from Miloli‘i through Volcano. Also available free on 
stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com.

KA‘Ū TROJANS SPORTS SCHEDULE
Girls Softball: Saturday, Mar 31 @ Honoka‘a
   Monday, Apr 2, @ Kohala
   Saturday, Apr 7, Hawai‘i Prep @ Ka‘ū
   Monday, Apr 9, @ Pāhoa
   Wednesday, Apr 11 @ KSH
   Saturday, Apr 14, Kea‘au @ Ka‘ū
Boys Volleyball: Tuesday, Apr 3, @ Waiakea
   Wednesday, Apr 11, Kea‘au @ Ka‘ū
   Friday, Apr 13, Honoka‘a @ Ka‘ū
   Monday, Apr 16, @ Hilo
   Friday, Apr 20, Parker @ Ka‘ū

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.

THURSDAY, MARCH 29
STEWARDSHIP OF KῙPUKAPUAULU Thu, Mar 29. Meet at 9:30 a.m., Kīpukapuaulu parking lot, Mauna Loa Rd, off Hwy 11. Bring clippers or pruners, sturdy gloves, a hat, water, closed-toe shoes; fabrics may be permanently stained by morning glory sap. New volunteers, contact Marilyn Nicholson at nickem@hawaii.rr.com



POETRY READING WITH 'THE POETS OF 1958' - Laura Mullen, Marthe Reed, and Susan M. Schultz - Thursday Night at the Center, March 29, 7 to 9 p.m. Free; $5 donation suggested. volcanoartcenter.org

FRIDAY, MARCH 30
COFFEE TALK, Fri, Mar 30, 9:30 - 11 a.m.Kahuku Park. Join park rangers in an informal conversation on a variety of topics. This month: Rapid ‘Ōhi‘a Death. Ka‘ū coffee, tea, and pastries available for purchase. Free. nps.gov/HAVO

SATURDAY, MARCH 31
LAST 2018 SANCTUARY OCEAN COUNT, Sat, Mar 31, 8 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.; arrive 30 min. prior for orientation. Four locations near/in Ka‘ū: Miloli‘i Lookout, Ka Lae Park, Punalu‘u Black Sand Beach Park, and Ka‘ena Point - hawaiihumpbackwhale.noaa.gov for directions; park entrance fees apply. Bring sun protection, water, snacks, and a cushion to sit on. Pre-registration required: sanctuaryoceancount.org

STEWARDSHIP AT THE SUMMIT Sat., March 31. Meet Paul and Jane Field at Kīlauea Visitor Center8:45 a.m. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and long pants, and bring a hat, raingear, day pack, snacks, and water. Gloves and tools provided. Parental or guardian accompaniment, or written consent, required for volunteers under 18. Visit park website for additional planning details: nps.gov/havo/planyourvisit/summit
_stewardship.htm

VOLCANO ART CENTER GALLERY PRESENTS HO’OKU’I I NĀ KIKO, Connecting the Dots, by Natalie Mahina Jensen and Lucia Tarall. "A curated collection of photographs, paintings, sculptures, and feather work items deliver a sublime message, connecting the viewer artistically with the provenance of the design." Daily, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., from Saturday, Mar. 31, to Sunday, May 6. volcanoartcenter.org or 967-8222
     A free lecture titled "The Last Truth," offered by Lucia Tarallo, takes place at 3pm on the opening day of the exhibition. The lecture will be followed by an opening reception where the public is invited to meet the artists.

SECOND ANNUAL KA‘Ū WELLNESS FAIR, GET YOUR SPRING, Sat, Mar 31, 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., multi-purpose room at Ka‘ū District Gym in Pāhala. The event features an Egg Hunt and Healthy Fun-Run-Walk, both of which begin at 9:30 a.m. - registration begins at 9 a.m. Also offered are a Blue Zones Purpose Workshop, from 10 a.m. to 11 a..m., and Book Time - Read A-Loud with Friends of the Ka‘ū Libraries, starting at 10 a.m. P.A.T.H. makes a presentation at 10:30 a.m. Vision Screenings, Keiki I.D.s, and Biometrics from Ka‘ū Public Health will be available. Several organizations will also provide information booths for the event: Bay Clinic, Ka‘ū Rural Health Clinic, Ka‘ū Rural Hospital, Project Aware - Your Mental Health First Aid, HSTA, Tūtū & Me Traveling Preschool and Home Visitor Program, and more.

PU‘U LOKUANA, Sat, Mar 31, 9:30 - 11 a.m., Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Short, moderately difficult, 0.4-mile hike to the top of the grassy cinder cone, Pu‘u Lokuana. Learn about the formation and various uses of this hill over time, and enjoy a breathtaking view of lower Kaʻū. Free. nps.gov/HAVO

SUNDAY, APRIL 1
EASTER BRUCH, Sun, Apr 1, 7 a.m. to noon. Crater Rim Café, Kīlauea Military Camp, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Main entrees: Ham, Beef Pot Roast, and Breakfast Veggie Stir Fry. No reservations required. $17/Adult, $9.50/Child (6-11 yrs). KMC is open to all authorized KMC patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. 967-8356, kilaueamilitarycamp.com

EASTER EGG HUNT, Sun, Apr 1, 9 a.m., ‘Ōhi‘a Room, Kīlauea Military Camp, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Open to keiki 10 years and under. Registration accepted from 7:30 - 8:45 a.m. Bring a basket. KMC is open to all authorized KMC patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. Pre-register children: 967-8352, kilaueamilitarycamp.com

FOURTH ANNUAL KA‘Ū COMMUNITY EASTER EGG HUNT, Sun, Apr 1, 1 - 3 p.m., Nā‘ālehu Community Park. Over 6,000 candy filled eggs, over 300 prizes. Free chili & rice bowls. Donations welcome. Free; open to all ages, infants to adults. Pam/Lance, 929-8137, Henri, 464-5042

MONDAY, APRIL 2
SLOGAN/MOTTO CONTEST - Pāhala Public & School Library, continues through Mon, Apr 2. Submit ideas to Nā‘ālehu or Pāhala Library. $55 grand prize awarded on Fri, Apr 13. Friends of Ka‘ū Libraries President Sandra Demouruelle, naalehutheatre@yahoo.com, 929-9244

EASTER EGG HUNT, Mon, Apr 2, noon, Flyin' Hawaiian Coffee, CU Hawai‘i lawn, Nā‘ālehu. Judy Knapp, 640-4712

OCEAN VIEW VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT MEETING, Mon, Apr 2, 4 - 6 p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

TUESDAY, APRIL 3
SPECIAL MERRIE MONARCH FESTIVAL EVENTS, Tue, Wed, Thu, Apr 3, 4 & 5, 11 - 1 p.m., Kīlauea Visitor Center lānai, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Honoring 55th Merrie Monarch Hula Festival. Hawaiian cultural demonstrations, live music. Part of Hawai‘i Volcanoes' ‘Ike Hana No‘eau "Experience the Skillful Work" workshops. Free; park entrance fees apply. nps.gov/HAVO

DISCOVERY HARBOUR VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT MEETINGS & TRAININGS, Tue, Apr 3 & 24, 4 - 6 p.m., Apr 17, 4:30 - 6:30 p.m., Discovery Harbour Community Hall. 929-9576, discoveryharbour.net

KAʻŪ COFFEE GROWERS MEETING, Tue, Apr 3, 6 - 8 p.m., Pāhala Community Center.

HOW THE PACIFIC TSUNAMI WARNING CENTER WORKS, Tue, Apr 3, 7 p.m., Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Dr. Nathan Becker, Senior Oceanographer describes PTWC operations. Free; park entrance fees apply. nps.gov/HAVO

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 4
AdvoCATS, Wed, Apr 4, 7 a.m. - 5 p.m., Ocean View Community Center. Free Cat Spay & Neuter Clinic. 895-9283

Open Mic Night, Wed, Apr 4, 6 - 10 p.m., Kīlauea Military Camp's Lava Lounge in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Singers, Bands, Comedians, etc. Call 967-8365 after 4 p.m. to sign up. Open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests 21 years and older. Park entrance fees apply. kilaueamilitarycamp.com

ONGOING
TŪTŪ AND ME OFFERS HOME VISITS to those with keiki zero to five years old: home visits to aid with helpful parenting tips and strategies, educational resources, and a compassionate listening ear. Home visits are free, last 1.5 hours, two to four times a month, for a total of 12 visits, and snacks are provided. For info and to register, call Linda Bong 646-9634.

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Tuesday, March 27, 2018

Ka‘ū News Brief Tuesday, March 27, 2018

Family at Nāʻālehu Elementary's EXPLORE! Fair on March 8, playing a board game design to educate about Hawaiʻi's watershed. 
See story below. Photos from Na`alehu School
HAWAI‘I COUNTY HIT 200,000 RESIDENTS as of July 1, 2017, according to U.S. Census Bureau figures released last week, growing faster than any of the other counties.
     The state population shrank between July 1, 2010, and July 1, 2017, down by 1,145 people - about 3 people per day - the loss mainly on O‘ahu. Hawai‘i Island saw an increase of about 1.1 percent during the same period.
     The origin of those moving to Hawaiʻi Island during the period was about 54 percent from the mainland, and 46 percent from foreign countries. Hawaiʻi Island birth rates fell to 11.76 percent, from 13.17 percent in 2010, and death rates increased to 9.67 percent, from 7.52 percent, in the same period.
     There were 200,381 people registered as residents on Hawai‘i Island as of July 1, 2017, up from 198,681 in 2016. These figures may indicate a trend that will see further and faster growth in coming years, according to Eugene Tian, state economist.
     More figures can be found at census.hawaii.gov/home/population-estimate/.

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FARM-TO-SCHOOL AND SUSTAINABLE & ORGANIC AGRICULTURE PROGRAMS are topics of public before the Hawaiʻi Legislature's House Finance Committee Wednesday, March 28.
     SB2928, "Establishes and appropriates funds for a farm to school grant pilot program within the Hawaii Department of Agriculture to provide grants to schools, early care and education centers, nonprofits, soil and water conservation districts, and food producers participating in the Hawai‘i farm to school program. Requires the Hawai‘i farm to school coordinator to submit a report to the legislature. Makes appropriations to continue the Hawaiʻi farm to school program and coordinator position and to assist farmers and ranchers achieve Good Agricultural Practices Certification from the United States Department of Agriculture."
     SB2075, "Appropriates moneys for three positions and operating expenses of the Sustainable and Organic Agriculture Program administered by the UH College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources."
     Hawai‘i Farmers Union United urges residents to submit testimonies in support of the bills.

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.

Families participated in a hurricane challenge, created in 
conjunction with Kamehameha School's Kealapono staff.
NĀ‘ĀLEHU GYM BUSTLED WITH SOUND AND EXCITEMENT in early March, as approximately 100 families engaged with science experiments. Make-and-take activities tested their wits in math games. These were just a few of the many STEAM activities at the Nāʻālehu Elementary's EXPLORE! Fair, which included free food and snacks, as well as a chance to interact with teachers, staff, and community organizations who all came together to volunteer and make the night a success.
     Families were challenged to visit at least eight booths, to receive a letter punch on a passport and earn the chance to win door prizes sponsored by Nāʻālehu ACE Hardware, KTA SuperStores, Bee Boys, and kindergarten teacher Mary LaGrandeur.
    ACE Hardware employees, Maeanne Salvador and Kerri Domondon, helped students make slime, showed them how to create lava lamps, and gave out free fidget cubes and spinners to kids for visiting their table. They also showed how simple hardware items could be transformed into fun experiments and tricks, such as suspending a ping pong ball in the air by blowing through a plastic tube connected to a funnel, and figuring out how to free themselves and a partner from a rope tie, without using their hands.
     Salvador said of the event, "It was a blast! We wanted to show the kids that ACE has more than tools. You can find supplies to make fun things like slime." Salvador invited ʻohana to her monthly science day, every first Saturday, at Nāʻālehu ACE, from 11 a.m. to noon. This month, it will be on April 7, and the theme is Tricks and Gadgets, where she will demo some of the tricks from the EXPLORE! Fair, and others.
Bob Martin's computer lab,
teaching the fun of coding.
     School librarian Linda Morgan shared the value of recycling, teaching how to create recycled paper with used paper, water, a blender, and old window screens. The preschool teachers tested the accuracy of people's five senses, having them guess smells and sounds, among other things. Kindergarten, which recently studied weather in science, displayed student-engineered sunshades from recycled materials, and assisted visitors to create wind socks to take home. First grade teachers shared the life cycle of a butterfly and helped students to create their own paper butterflies.
     Second-grade teachers passed out a variety of seeds - such as roma tomato, amaryllis, buttercrunch lettuce, flat parsley, and native seeds like mamane - packed by their students for EXPLORE! participants to cultivate at home. Families could also take home bean and lettuce seedlings that second-graders planted after experimenting with germination techniques, and handed out student-written informational paragraphs explaining how to grow and take care of plants.
    Third and fourth-grade teachers created math games designed for fun, testing the crowd's knowledge of fractions and calculating polygon perimeters.
    Fifth grade hosted the hurricane challenge in conjunction with Kamehameha School's Kealapono staff. Students were challenged to engineer a tall tower that could hold a tennis ball during their bi-weekly science classes with kumu Sheilah Okimoto. During the fair, civil defense warning sounds were played periodically, announcing a simulated hurricane on its way. Families were invited to join the challenge and create a tower to compete with student tower entries, battling winds from a large box fan, to see which was the strongest.
Kevin O'Connor of Bee Boys shared
his fascination of the honey bee.
     Sixth grade tested the gray cells of passersby to see who could create the longest paper chain out of one piece of paper, and figure out how to one could manipulate an index card so that your head could pass through the center of it. On display were also science fair experiments, such as Taijah Beck's investigation to see which liquids have the worst effect on teeth enamel. Beck explained she soaked different eggs, whose shells have similar properties to teeth enamel, for 24 hours in three types of soda (Pepsi, Coca-Cola, Orange Crush), coffee, tea, and water. All shells came out darkly stained in color except for the eggs soaked in water.
     School administration passed out free window boxes, potting soil, and seedlings to school families, encouraging to have each student create their own home garden.
     School Technology guru, Bob Martin, set up laptops for students to explore how to easy and fun it is to learn computer coding, and promoted a global educational movement called Hour of Code. See hourofcode.com for more information.
Simple hardware transformed into fun 
science, courtesy of Ace Hardware.
     School staff Debra Kohara, Emma Flores, and Aprille Cariaga, worked non-stop throughout the event to pop fresh popcorn for a never-ending line. The secret to the delicious popcorn is librarian Morgan's topping: nutritional yeast.
    Nohea Ka‘awa represented Three Mountain Alliance and The Nature Conservancy, helping families to learn about water conservation through a special board game.
     Nā Mamo o Kāwā executive director, James Akau, shared the virtues of the native milo tree, demonstrating how to create lei out of its leaves. He passed out milo seeds and seedlings, pots, and soil for interested parties to start their own backyard native nurseries, with the idea that those who want to could later outplant their trees at Kāwā. He also promoted NMOK's monthly workday, which happens the second Saturday of each month. This month it will be held on April 14, from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. For more information, email namamookawa@gmail.com, or call 561-9111.
     Beekeeper Kevin O'Connor - representing Bee Boys, a local organic honey company with a store in Nāʻālehu shopping center - brought an observation bee hive and shared the amazing qualities of honeybees. In February, O'Connor visited the Nā'ālehu second grade to share his enthusiasm about honeybees and what makes them great pollinators.
People young and old participated in STEAM challenges.
     Ocean View artist Don Elwing turned the back wall of the gym into an art gallery, displaying his art pieces created from marine debris he collects from Kamilo Beach, where currents bring in a tremendous amount of trash from around the world onto the shore. Elwing encouraged visitors to use 3-D glasses while viewing, which caused aspects of his artwork to float off the canvas boards. He is also Ke Ola Magazine's featured artist for March and April. Read more about him at keolamagazine.com.
     EXPLORE! Fair committee members, including kindergarten teachers Mary LaGrandeur and Raina Whiting, second-grade teacher Ryan Holderbaum, and Kealapono literacy resource teachers Sheilah Okimoto and Nālani Parlin, said they were thrilled by the success of the event, and thanked all the many volunteers and sponsors that made it possible.

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.

NĀ‘ĀLEHU ELEMENTARY SCHOOL COMMUNITY COUNCIL seeks nominations for a community representative to serve a two-year term that will run for school year 2018-2019 and SY 2019-2020. The School Council will also hold a special election for a parent representative to serve one year during the 2018-19 school year.
     The parent rep cannot be a Nāʻālehu School employee. Nominations for both positions will be accepted between April 2 until April 16 at 3 p.m. Campaign period will start April 16, with the voting period running April 30 through May 11. Those interested can contact Leilani Rodrigues at 313-4020 or pcnc@naalehu.org, or leave their name and number at the main office line, 313-4000.

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Jelena Clay demonstrates Lauhala Weaving on Friday, 
March 30. Photo from volcanoartcenter.org
HAWAI‘I ISLAND ARTIST JELENA CLAY DEMONSTRATES LAUHALA WEAVING at Volcano Art Center's Aloha Friday this week, March 30. Clay shares her love for Hawaiian culture and arts by demonstrating weaving techniques using the Pandanus leaf, lauhala, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., on the Volcano Art Center Gallery Porch inside Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park.
     The free cultural event is supported in part by a grant from the County of Hawai‘i, Dept. of Research and Development and the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority. National Park entrance fees apply. Visit volcanoartcenter.org for more.

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

See public Ka‘ū events, meetings, entertainment at kaucalendar.com
/janfebmar/februaryevents.htmlSee Ka‘ū exercise, meditation, daily, 
February print edition of The Ka‘ū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes 
throughout Ka‘ū, from Miloli‘i through Volcano. Also available free on 
stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com.


KA‘Ū TROJANS SPORTS SCHEDULE
Girls Softball: Saturday, Mar 31 @ Honoka‘a
   Monday, Apr 2, @ Kohala
   Saturday, Apr 7, Hawai‘i Prep @ Ka‘ū
   Monday, Apr 9, @ Pāhoa
   Wednesday, Apr 11 @ KSH
   Saturday, Apr 14, Kea‘au @ Ka‘ū
Boys Volleyball: Tuesday, Apr 3, @ Waiakea
   Wednesday, Apr 11, Kea‘au @ Ka‘ū
   Friday, Apr 13, Honoka‘a @ Ka‘ū
   Monday, Apr 16, @ Hilo
   Friday, Apr 20, Parker @ Ka‘ū

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.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 28
HAWAI‘I COUNTY COUNCIL MEETING, Wed, Mar 28 (Council), in Kona. Ka‘ū residents can participate via videoconferencing at Nā‘ālehu State Office Building. Agendas at hawaiicounty.gov

KŌKUA KUPUNA PROJECT, Wed, Mar 28, 9 - 11 a.m., St. Jude's Episcopal Church, Ocean View. Seniors, 60 years & older, encouraged to attend, ask questions, and inquire about services offered through Legal Aid Society of Hawai‘i - referral required from Hawai‘i County Office of Aging at 961-8626 for free legal services. Under 60, call 1-800-499-4302. More info: tahisha.despontes@legalaidhawaii.org, 329-3910 ext. 925. legalaidhawaii.org

HŪ (HAWAIIAN TOP) DEMONSTRATION, Wed, Mar 28, 10 a.m. to noon, Kīlauea Visitor Center lānai, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Make a Hū and learn the game. Part of Hawai‘i Volcanoes' ‘Ike Hana No‘eau "Experience the Skillful Work" workshops. Free. nps.gov/HAVO

THURSDAY, MARCH 29
STEWARDSHIP OF KῙPUKAPUAULU Thu, Mar 29. Meet at 9:30 a.m., Kīpukapuaulu parking lot, Mauna Loa Rd, off Hwy 11. Bring clippers or pruners, sturdy gloves, a hat, water, closed-toe shoes; fabrics may be permanently stained by morning glory sap. New volunteers, contact Marilyn Nicholson at nickem@hawaii.rr.com

POETRY READING WITH 'THE POETS OF 1958' - Laura Mullen, Marthe Reed, and Susan M. Schultz - Thursday Night at the Center, March 29, 7 to 9 p.m. Free; $5 donation suggested. volcanoartcenter.org

FRIDAY, MARCH 30
COFFEE TALK, Fri, Mar 30, 9:30 - 11 a.m.Kahuku Park. Join park rangers in an informal conversation on a variety of topics. This month: Rapid ‘Ōhi‘a Death. Ka‘ū coffee, tea, and pastries available for purchase. Free. nps.gov/HAVO

SATURDAY, MARCH 31
LAST 2018 SANCTUARY OCEAN COUNT, Sat, Mar 31, 8 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.; arrive 30 min. prior for orientation. Four locations near/in Ka‘ū: Miloli‘i Lookout, Ka Lae Park, Punalu‘u Black Sand Beach Park, and Ka‘ena Point - hawaiihumpbackwhale.noaa.gov for directions; park entrance fees apply. Bring sun protection, water, snacks, and a cushion to sit on. Pre-registration required: sanctuaryoceancount.org

STEWARDSHIP AT THE SUMMIT Sat., March 31. Meet Paul and Jane Field at Kīlauea Visitor Center8:45 a.m. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and long pants, and bring a hat, raingear, day pack, snacks, and water. Gloves and tools provided. Parental or guardian accompaniment, or written consent, required for volunteers under 18. Visit park website for additional planning details: nps.gov/havo/planyourvisit/summit_stewardship.htm

VOLCANO ART CENTER GALLERY PRESENTS HO’OKU’I I NĀ KIKO, Connecting the Dots, by Natalie Mahina Jensen and Lucia Tarall. "A curated collection of photographs, paintings, sculptures, and feather work items deliver a sublime message, connecting the viewer artistically with the provenance of the design." Daily, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., from Saturday, Mar. 31, to Sunday, May 6. volcanoartcenter.org or 967-8222
     A free lecture titled "The Last Truth," offered by Lucia Tarallo, takes place at 3pm on the opening day of the exhibition. The lecture will be followed by an opening reception where the public is invited to meet the artists.

SECOND ANNUAL KA‘Ū WELLNESS FAIR, GET YOUR SPRING, Sat, Mar 31, 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., multi-purpose room at Ka‘ū District Gym in Pāhala. The event features an Egg Hunt and Healthy Fun-Run-Walk, both of which begin at 9:30 a.m. - registration begins at 9 a.m. Also offered are a Blue Zones Purpose Workshop, from 10 a.m. to 11 a..m., and Book Time - Read A-Loud with Friends of the Ka‘ū Libraries, starting at 10 a.m. P.A.T.H. makes a presentation at 10:30 a.m. Vision Screenings, Keiki I.D.s, and Biometrics from Ka‘ū Public Health will be available. Several organizations will also provide information booths for the event: Bay Clinic, Ka‘ū Rural Health Clinic, Ka‘ū Rural Hospital, Project Aware - Your Mental Health First Aid, HSTA, Tūtū & Me Traveling Preschool and Home Visitor Program, and more.

PU‘U LOKUANA, Sat, Mar 31, 9:30 - 11 a.m., Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Short, moderately difficult, 0.4-mile hike to the top of the grassy cinder cone, Pu‘u Lokuana. Learn about the formation and various uses of this hill over time, and enjoy a breathtaking view of lower Kaʻū. Free. nps.gov/HAVO

SUNDAY, APRIL 1
EASTER BRUCH, Sun, Apr 1, 7 a.m. to noon. Crater Rim Café, Kīlauea Military Camp, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Main entrees: Ham, Beef Pot Roast, and Breakfast Veggie Stir Fry. No reservations required. $17/Adult, $9.50/Child (6-11 yrs). KMC is open to all authorized KMC patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. 967-8356, kilaueamilitarycamp.com

EASTER EGG HUNT, Sun, Apr 1, 9 a.m., ‘Ōhi‘a Room, Kīlauea Military Camp, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Open to keiki 10 years and under. Registration accepted from 7:30 - 8:45 a.m. Bring a basket. KMC is open to all authorized KMC patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. Pre-register children: 967-8352, kilaueamilitarycamp.com

FOURTH ANNUAL KA‘Ū COMMUNITY EASTER EGG HUNT, Sun, Apr 1, 1 - 3 p.m., Nā‘ālehu Community Park. Over 6,000 candy filled eggs, over 300 prizes. Free chili & rice bowls. Donations welcome. Free; open to all ages, infants to adults. Pam/Lance, 929-8137, Henri, 464-5042

MONDAY, APRIL 2
SLOGAN/MOTTO CONTEST - Pāhala Public & School Library, continues through Mon, Apr 2. Submit ideas to Nā‘ālehu or Pāhala Library. $55 grand prize awarded on Fri, Apr 13. Friends of Ka‘ū Libraries President Sandra Demouruelle, naalehutheatre@yahoo.com, 929-9244

EASTER EGG HUNT, Mon, Apr 2, noon, Flyin’ Hawaiian Coffee, CU Hawai‘i lawn, Nā‘ālehu. Judy Knapp, 640-4712

OCEAN VIEW VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT MEETING, Mon, Apr 2, 4 - 6 p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

TUESDAY, APRIL 3
SPECIAL MERRIE MONARCH FESTIVAL EVENTS, Tue, Wed, Thu, Apr 3, 4 & 5, 11 - 1 p.m., Kīlauea Visitor Center lānai, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Honoring 55th Merrie Monarch Hula Festival. Hawaiian cultural demonstrations, live music. Part of Hawai‘i Volcanoes’ ‘Ike Hana No‘eau “Experience the Skillful Work” workshops. Free; park entrance fees apply. nps.gov/HAVO

DISCOVERY HARBOUR VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT MEETINGS & TRAININGS, Tue, Apr 3 & 24, 4 - 6 p.m., Apr 17, 4:30 - 6:30 p.m., Discovery Harbour Community Hall. 929-9576, discoveryharbour.net

KAʻŪ COFFEE GROWERS MEETING, Tue, Apr 3, 6 - 8 p.m., Pāhala Community Center.

HOW THE PACIFIC TSUNAMI WARNING CENTER WORKS, Tue, Apr 3, 7 p.m., Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Dr. Nathan Becker, Senior Oceanographer describes PTWC operations. Free; park entrance fees apply. nps.gov/HAVO

ONGOING
TŪTŪ AND ME OFFERS HOME VISITS to those with keiki zero to five years old: home visits to aid with helpful parenting tips and strategies, educational resources, and a compassionate listening ear. Home visits are free, last 1.5 hours, two to four times a month, for a total of 12 visits, and snacks are provided. For info and to register, call Linda Bong 646-9634.

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.




Monday, March 26, 2018

Ka‘ū News Brief Monday, March 26, 2018

Estimated at 40 tons, this mass of nets and other marine debris reflects nearly half of the makeup of the Great Pacific Garbage Patch - which has recently revealed some surprises. See story, below. Photo from Hawaiʻi DLNR
TODAY IS PRINCE KŪHIŌ DAY, March 26. The state holiday, with schools and other public offices closed, celebrates the birthday of Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalanianaʻole Piʻikoi, born on March 26, 1871. He was an heir to the throne of the Kingdom of Hawaiʻi, a territorial delegate to the U.S. Congress, and authored the first Hawaiʻi Statehood bill in 1919. He also won passage of the Hawaiian Homes Act to create the Hawaiian Homes Commission, and set aside 200,000 acres for the benefit of Native Hawaiians.
Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalanianaʻole Piʻikoi
     Today, he is honored under the Year of the Hawaiian, which commemorates the 100th anniversary of the first Hawaiian Civic Club, and the 40th anniversary of the first Hawaiian Language immersion programs. "Thanks to Prince Kūhiō and the many others who continued his legacy, the Hawaiian culture and language is thriving," states a release from Gov. David Ige's team.

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.

GREAT PACIFIC GARBAGE PATCH IS MUCH LARGER THAN EARLIER ESTIMATED, states a new report by The Ocean Cleanup Foundation, released on Nature.com. The findings on the huge mass of plastics and other trash, floating like an island twice the size of Texas between Hawaiʻi and California, may explain the recent uptick in debris washing up on Ka‘ū beaches.
Image of the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, generated
from gathered data, showing its estimated size of
600,000 square miles, and general location, between
Hawaiʻi (bottom left) and California (top right).
 Image from nature.com
     In addition to the Great Pacific Garbage Patch gyre growing to 600,000 square miles - 55 times the size of the Hawaiian Islands - its actual makeup is also unexpected.
     "We were surprised by the amount of large plastic objects we encountered," said Dr. Julia Reisser, chief scientist of the expedition. "We used to think most of the debris consists of small fragments, but this new analysis shines a new light on the scope of the debris." The model they have created, using data from multi-vessel and aircraft surveys, "predicted at least (87 thousand tons) of ocean plastic are floating inside an area of (600,000 square miles); a figure four to 16 times higher than previously reported."
     The report states over three-quarters of the Patch is made up of debris larger than 5cm, 46 percent is made up of fishing nets, eight percent is made up of microplastics by mass - though they comprised 94 percent of the estimated 1.8 trillion pieces floating in the area.
     "Plastic collected during our study has specific characteristics such as small surface-to-volume ratio, indicating that only certain types of debris have the capacity to persist and accumulate at the surface of the GPGP.... our results suggest that ocean plastic pollution within the GPGP is increasing exponentially and at a faster rate than in surrounding waters," states the report.
Map of data gathering missions, between 
Hawaiʻi (bottom left) and California (top right).
 Image from nature.com

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

CALL FOR PEACE FROM REP. TUSLI GABBARD came through in an announcement last week, after the appointment of two men to the presidential cabinet: She cites the placement of CIA Director Mike Pompeo being selected to replace Rex Tillerson as Secretary of State, and former UN Ambassador and "unapologetic Iraq War champion" John Bolton as National Security Advisor.
     "Like so many of my fellow veterans who served in Iraq, I witnessed the cost of war firsthand during my 12-month tour in 2005. This was a major motivation for me to offer to serve in Congress - so that I could do everything possible to prevent our country from making such disastrous and costly foreign policy decisions again. The cost of such wars is borne by U.S. troops who are put into harm's way, who make the ultimate sacrifice, and those who come home with both visible and invisible wounds. It is borne by the American people, whose taxpayer dollars are spent by the trillions on these counterproductive regime change wars, and the inevitable nation-building that follows, while our communities languish with failing infrastructure, resource-strapped schools, and too many who still lack access to quality healthcare. Yet, the Washington interventionist foreign policy establishment, which has persisted through both Democrat and Republican administrations, remains unmoved by the costly and counterproductive failures of Iraq, Libya, and Syria, and they continue increasing the drumbeat of war.
     Gabbard goes on to describe the $1 billion worth of arms sent to Saudi Arabia "while the Senate failed to take action that would end U.S. support for the destructive Saudi-Iran proxy war in Yemen. Congress never authorized U.S. military support for this horrific war in Yemen. Yet, U.S. military planes are refueling Saudi warplanes that are dropping missiles like the ones Trump just sold them to bomb Yemeni civilians, killing tens of thousands, destroying their infrastructure and access to clean water, leading to the worst cholera outbreak in modern history."
     She has concerns about, "the introduction of warhawk John Bolton as Trump's National Security Advisor comes as we are on the brink of historic and necessary direct talks between President Trump and Kim Jong Un to denuclearize North Korea, Turkey's attacks against our Kurdish allies in Syria, and threats of war with Iran," and states, "the neocon Washington establishment continues to cozy up to Saudi Arabia despite their direct and indirect support of terrorist groups, and their continued global exportation of the extreme Wahhabi Salafi ideology that fuels terrorist groups like ISIS and al-Qaeda, directly undermining the safety and security of our country. Neocon warhawks Pompeo and Bolton will not only continue the status quo, they threaten to worsen the situation with more senseless wars. We cannot allow that to happen.
John Bolton, new National Security Advisor

Mike Pompeo, new Secretary of State
     "The American people are sick of our failed regime change wars. They are sick of paying the price for counterproductive wars that have taken the lives of our sons and daughters and taken resources away from our communities, while undermining our security and increasing the threat of terrorism. Join me, and add your name to the petition for peace."
     Gabbard ends with a call to focus on, "investing in and rebuilding our communities right here at home," and to "end our country's counterproductive regime change war policies that have undermined our national security, destroyed so many countries and taken so many lives.
     "The best way to honor our troops, the less than 1% of our country's population who voluntarily put their lives on the line in service to our country, is by making sure that when they are sent into combat, it is the last option, not the first, and that the mission is worthy of their great sacrifice. They are not fodder to be used carelessly to live out the regime-change war addiction that has consumed Washington for far too long.
     "Join me in taking a stand for peace today. Our future depends on it."

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.

LEADING ENVIRONMENTAL ADVOCACY GROUPS ISSUE PERFECT SCORE TO SEN. MAZIE HIRONO for her work in the Senate to stand up for environmental protections and fight the Trump administration’s efforts to open public lands for drilling and prioritize fossil fuel extraction over renewable energy, announces Hirono's team. She received 100% scores from two leading environmental advocacy groups: the League of Conservation Voters and the Defenders of Wildlife.
     "The Trump administration and Congressional Republicans’ anti-environment leaders and policies ignore the science of climate change and prioritize fossil fuel extraction over protecting our precious natural resources," said Hirono, who is a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. "These scores reflect my commitment to protecting our aina and our water resources, and I’m proud to continue my work with the League of Conservation Voters and the Defenders of Wildlife."
     "Senator Hirono is a stalwart defender of environmental protections, standing up to the onslaught of attacks on our environment last year from an increasingly extreme congressional leadership," said Sara Chieffo, Vice President of Government Affairs, League of Conservation Voters. "As the Trump administration pushes a pro-polluter agenda, the people of Hawaii can count on Senator Hirono to fight to boost clean energy, combat climate change, preserve Hawaii's beautiful public lands, and protect clean air and water for all."
     Senator Hirono is a cosponsor of the Land and Water Conservation Authorization and Funding Act (S.569), which permanently authorizes the Land and Water Conservation Fund. She also successfully secured funding for Hawai‘i's "Island Forests at Risk" proposal in President Obama’s budgets for FY 2016 and 2017. This funding enabled the State to purchase environmentally sensitive land to expand Hawaiian Volcanoes National Park, expand the Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge, and to allow the National Park Service to purchase land within Pohu‘e Bay.
     As a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, Senator Hirono has "fought back against the Trump administration’s efforts to weaken or eliminate protections for public lands - including efforts to undo National Monument designations," states the announcement. She has also introduced legislation to establish Department of Energy grants for demonstration projects that will help Hawai‘i and other states learn how best to use growing amounts of renewable power and energy storage. Many provisions of this legislation are included in the bipartisan Energy and Natural Resources Act of 2017 (S.1460) that is awaiting consideration by the full Senate. Last year, Senator Hirono opposed legislation to open up the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge for oil drilling and voted against Presidential nominees, including Secretary of Energy Perry and Secretary of the Interior Zinke, who prioritize fossil fuel extraction over conservation.

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.

COUNTY BUDGET will be the focus of this week's Committee and Council meetings, Tuesday, March 27 and Wednesday, March 28. Residents are welcome to attend and view the meetings, and/or testify on any agenda item at one of the following video conference locations: Pāhoa Council Office, 15-2879 Pahoa Village Road, Pāhoa, Hawai'i; Nā'ālehu State Office Building, 95-5669 Mamalahoa Hwy, Nā'ālehu, Hawai'i. A livestream of the meetings will be shown at http://hawaiicounty.granicus.com/ViewPublisher.php?view_id=1. Call 323-4275 for more.

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

See public Ka‘ū events, meetings, entertainment at kaucalendar.com
/janfebmar/februaryevents.htmlSee Ka‘ū exercise, meditation, daily, 
February print edition of The Ka‘ū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes 
throughout Ka‘ū, from Miloli‘i through Volcano. Also available free on 
stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com.

KA‘Ū TROJANS SPORTS SCHEDULE
Girls Softball: Saturday, Mar 31 @ Honoka‘a
   Monday, Apr 2, @ Kohala
   Saturday, Apr 7, Hawai‘i Prep @ Ka‘ū
   Monday, Apr 9, @ Pāhoa
   Wednesday, Apr 11 @ KSH
   Saturday, Apr 14, Kea‘au @ Ka‘ū
Boys Volleyball: Tuesday, Apr 3, @ Waiakea
   Wednesday, Apr 11, Kea‘au @ Ka‘ū
   Friday, Apr 13, Honoka‘a @ Ka‘ū
   Monday, Apr 16, @ Hilo
   Friday, Apr 20, Parker @ Ka‘ū

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.

AVOCADO GRAFTING FOR COMMERCIAL GROWERS WORKSHOP Register by Monday, March 26, for Hilo, and Tuesday, March 27, for Kona. Workshops scheduled for: Wednesday, March 28, 1:30 to 4:30 p.m., at Komohana Research and Extension Center, 875 Komohana St, Room D-202, Hilo, HI 96720. Kona will hold two workshops, at 9 a.m. to noon or 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., on Thursday, March 29, at Kona Cooperative Extension Service, Conference Room, 79-7381 Mamalahoa Highway, Kealakekua, HI 96750. Class Fee is $25 per person, per workshop; registration required. RSVP online, or by contacting Gina at 322-4892, at least two days prior to the workshop.

TUESDAY, MARCH 27
HAWAI‘I COUNTY COUNCIL MEETINGS, Tue/Wed, Mar 27 (committees)/28 (Council), Kona. Ka‘ū residents can participate via videoconferencing at Nā‘ālehu State Office Building. Agendas at hawaiicounty.gov

WALK INTO THE PAST WITH DR. THOMAS A. JAGGAR, Tue, Mar 27, at 10 a.m.noon, and 2 p.m., at Kīlauea Visitor Center. Each performance lasts about an hour. To find out more about this 2018 weekly (except July and Aug) living history program, visit the park website: nps.gov/havo/planyourvisit/walk_into_the_past.htm

HOVE Road Maintenance Monthly Meeting, Tue, Mar 27, 10 a.m., RMC Office in Ocean View. hoveroad.com, 929-9910

KA‘Ū FOOD PANTRY, Tue, Mar 27, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., St. Jude's Episcopal Church in Ocean View.

TRACKING LAVA LAKES WITH THE SOUNDS FROM BURSTING GAS BUBBLES, After Dark in the Park, Tue, Mar. 27, 7 p.m., in the Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium. Free; a $2 donation is suggested to support park programs. For more, visit nps.gov/HAVO

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 28
HAWAI‘I COUNTY COUNCIL MEETING, Wed, Mar 28 (Council), in Kona. Ka‘ū residents can participate via videoconferencing at Nā‘ālehu State Office Building. Agendas at hawaiicounty.gov

KŌKUA KUPUNA PROJECT, Wed, Mar 28, 9 - 11 a.m., St. Jude's Episcopal Church, Ocean View. Seniors, 60 years & older, encouraged to attend, ask questions, and inquire about services offered through Legal Aid Society of Hawai‘i - referral required from Hawai‘i County Office of Aging at 961-8626 for free legal services. Under 60, call 1-800-499-4302. More info: tahisha.despontes@legalaidhawaii.org, 329-3910 ext. 925. legalaidhawaii.org

HŪ (HAWAIIAN TOP) DEMONSTRATION, Wed, Mar 28, 10 a.m. to noon, Kīlauea Visitor Center lānai, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Make a Hū and learn the game. Part of Hawai‘i Volcanoes' ‘Ike Hana No‘eau "Experience the Skillful Work" workshops. Free. nps.gov/HAVO

THURSDAY, MARCH 29
STEWARDSHIP OF KῙPUKAPUAULU Thu, Mar 29. Meet at 9:30 a.m., Kīpukapuaulu parking lot, Mauna Loa Rd, off Hwy 11. Bring clippers or pruners, sturdy gloves, a hat, water, closed-toe shoes; fabrics may be permanently stained by morning glory sap. New volunteers, contact Marilyn Nicholson at nickem@hawaii.rr.com

POETRY READING WITH 'THE POETS OF 1958' - Laura Mullen, Marthe Reed, and Susan M. Schultz - Thursday Night at the Center, March 29, 7 to 9 p.m. Free; $5 donation suggested. volcanoartcenter.org

FRIDAY, MARCH 30
COFFEE TALK, Fri, Mar 30, 9:30 - 11 a.m.Kahuku Park. Join park rangers in an informal conversation on a variety of topics. This month: Rapid ‘Ōhi‘a Death. Ka‘ū coffee, tea, and pastries available for purchase. Free. nps.gov/HAVO

SATURDAY, MARCH 31
LAST 2018 SANCTUARY OCEAN COUNT, Sat, Mar 31, 8 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.; arrive 30 min. prior for orientation. Four locations near/in Ka‘ū: Miloli‘i Lookout, Ka Lae Park, Punalu‘u Black Sand Beach Park, and Ka‘ena Point - hawaiihumpbackwhale.noaa.gov for directions; park entrance fees apply. Bring sun protection, water, snacks, and a cushion to sit on. Pre-registration required: sanctuaryoceancount.org

STEWARDSHIP AT THE SUMMIT Sat., March 31. Meet Paul and Jane Field at Kīlauea Visitor Center8:45 a.m. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and long pants, and bring a hat, raingear, day pack, snacks, and water. Gloves and tools provided. Parental or guardian accompaniment, or written consent, required for volunteers under 18. Visit park website for additional planning details: nps.gov/havo/planyourvisit/summit_stewardship.htm

VOLCANO ART CENTER GALLERY PRESENTS HO’OKU’I I NĀ KIKO, Connecting the Dots, by Natalie Mahina Jensen and Lucia Tarall. "A curated collection of photographs, paintings, sculptures, and feather work items deliver a sublime message, connecting the viewer artistically with the provenance of the design." Daily, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., from Saturday, Mar. 31, to Sunday, May 6. volcanoartcenter.org or 967-8222
     A free lecture titled "The Last Truth," offered by Lucia Tarallo, takes place at 3pm on the opening day of the exhibition. The lecture will be followed by an opening reception where the public is invited to meet the artists.

SECOND ANNUAL KA‘Ū WELLNESS FAIR, GET YOUR SPRING, Sat, Mar 31, 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., multi-purpose room at Ka‘ū District Gym in Pāhala. The event features an Egg Hunt and Healthy Fun-Run-Walk, both of which begin at 9:30 a.m. - registration begins at 9 a.m. Also offered are a Blue Zones Purpose Workshop, from 10 a.m. to 11 a..m., and Book Time - Read A-Loud with Friends of the Ka‘ū Libraries, starting at 10 a.m. P.A.T.H. makes a presentation at 10:30 a.m. Vision Screenings, Keiki I.D.s, and Biometrics from Ka‘ū Public Health will be available. Several organizations will also provide information booths for the event: Bay Clinic, Ka‘ū Rural Health Clinic, Ka‘ū Rural Hospital, Project Aware - Your Mental Health First Aid, HSTA, Tūtū & Me Traveling Preschool and Home Visitor Program, and more.

PU‘U LOKUANA, Sat, Mar 31, 9:30 - 11 a.m., Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Short, moderately difficult, 0.4-mile hike to the top of the grassy cinder cone, Pu‘u Lokuana. Learn about the formation and various uses of this hill over time, and enjoy a breathtaking view of lower Kaʻū. Free. nps.gov/HAVO

SUNDAY, APRIL 1
EASTER BRUCH, Sun, Apr 1, 7 a.m. to noon. Crater Rim Café, Kīlauea Military Camp, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Main entrees: Ham, Beef Pot Roast, and Breakfast Veggie Stir Fry. No reservations required. $17/Adult, $9.50/Child (6-11 yrs). KMC is open to all authorized KMC patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. 967-8356, kilaueamilitarycamp.com

EASTER EGG HUNT, Sun, Apr 1, 9 a.m., ‘Ōhi‘a Room, Kīlauea Military Camp, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Open to keiki 10 years and under. Registration accepted from 7:30 - 8:45 a.m. Bring a basket. KMC is open to all authorized KMC patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. Pre-register children: 967-8352, kilaueamilitarycamp.com

FOURTH ANNUAL KA‘Ū COMMUNITY EASTER EGG HUNT, Sun, Apr 1, 1 - 3 p.m., Nā‘ālehu Community Park. Over 6,000 candy filled eggs, over 300 prizes. Free chili & rice bowls. Donations welcome. Free; open to all ages, infants to adults. Pam/Lance, 929-8137, Henri, 464-5042


MONDAY, APRIL 2
SLOGAN/MOTTO CONTEST - Pāhala Public & School Library, continues through Mon, Apr 2. Submit ideas to Nā‘ālehu or Pāhala Library. $55 grand prize awarded on Fri, Apr 13. Friends of Ka‘ū Libraries President Sandra Demouruelle, naalehutheatre@yahoo.com, 929-9244

EASTER EGG HUNT, Mon, Apr 2, noon, Flyin’ Hawaiian Coffee, CU Hawai‘i lawn, Nā‘ālehu. Judy Knapp, 640-4712

OCEAN VIEW VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT MEETING, Mon, Apr 2, 4 - 6 p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

ONGOING
TŪTŪ AND ME OFFERS HOME VISITS to those with keiki zero to five years old: home visits to aid with helpful parenting tips and strategies, educational resources, and a compassionate listening ear. Home visits are free, last 1.5 hours, two to four times a month, for a total of 12 visits, and snacks are provided. For info and to register, call Linda Bong 646-9634.

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.