Kaʻū News Briefs, Saturday, January 12 2019

Firefighters tackle the Keauhou Ranch wildfire, reportedly sparked by repairs to a bulldozer, last August. The fire
burned more than 3,200 acres in and around Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. See a warning on expected dry conditions
this year. Learn preparations from Hawaiʻi Wildfire Management Organization, below. NPS photo/D.Benitez

FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION AND U.S. FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION are among the federal agencies challenged to provide services during the partial government shutdown. The shutdown is now the longest in history, at 22 days. Yesterday marked the first missed paycheck for the 420,000 federal employees working without pay and the 380,000 furloughed.

     Scott Gottlieb, M.D., the 23rd Commissioner of the FDA, announced, "We're taking steps to expand the scope of food safety surveillance inspections we're doing during the shutdown to make sure we continue inspecting high risk food facilities; 31% of our inventory of domestic inspections are considered high risk." He said foreign food inspections have continued without pause.

     Gottlieb said that "while it's not business as usual at the agency," the FDA is bringing back some furloughed employees, who will work without pay, to conduct much needed inspections on high-risk items like seafood, dairy, unpasteurized juices, shell eggs, sandwiches, prepared salads, and infant formula.

     Airline unions that represent pilots, flight attendants, and mechanics communicated to legislators and the White House to end the shutdown, saying it "has already inflicted real damage to our nation's aviation system and the impacts will only worsen over time," reported Leslie Josephs of The New York Times. She also reported the shutdown was delaying Southwest launching flights to Hawaiʻi.

     Sen. Brian Schatz tweeted, "The Constitution gives the legislative branch the authority to enact a law over the objection of the President." Schatz introduced a bill "to prohibit creditors and landlords from taking action against any federal employee or contractor hurt by the Trump shutdown," mentioning he wouldn't mind having "a few Republican cosponsors."

     He remarked, "Shutdowns are stupid, painful, and literally never work. And this is the stupidest one in American history. I'm pleased we were able to enact a law guaranteeing back pay for furloughed or unpaid employees, but that's just a band-aid. We must end this."

     Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, who yesterday announced her intention to run for President in 2020, tweeted, "This is not a game." She noted that people need to pay for childcare and transportation on top of rent, food, and medical expenses. "Families are suffering. Our country is less safe. The impact of this shutdown is real."

     Sen. Mazie Hirono tweeted: "Let me be clear: the only crisis is the one Trump manufactured and the only wall that's real is the one closing in on him." She remarked that "detention of unaccompanied children for longer periods is the real crisis facing our country."

     Hirono also called out Senate Majority Leader Republican Mitch McConnell, saying, "he has said he has no power to bring these bills to the floor. I'd like to remind him that Congress is a separate branch of government. Senator McConnell can end the #TrumpShutdown right now."

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.

CUSTOMERS WHO LEFT PAYMENTS AT HAWAI‘I ELECTRIC LIGHT COMPANY DROPBOX IN HILO at 1200 Kīlauea Ave. between 2:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 14, and 7 a.m. Monday, Dec. 17, may be victims of personal information theft. Those customers are asked to call HELCO Customer Service at (808) 969-6999 to check account status.

     HELCO is investigating the theft of payment envelopes. Video surveillance shows a man prying the payment box open late Friday evening, Dec. 14, according to a statement from HELCO.

     HECLO states security staff is working with the Hawaiʻi Police Department on the theft investigation. The company states it "repaired and re-secured the drop box immediately after discovering the incident and acted quickly to improve the lighting around the box." HELCO states there is "no reason to believe that the thief was targeting bank account or utility account information for the purpose of committing identity theft or fraud. However, those scenarios cannot be ruled out."

     The utility states individuals should "promptly and carefully" review utility and bank account statements, and contact HELCO about suspicious activity. Customers should be vigilant in responding to telephone calls or other inquiries about affected accounts, says the announcement, reminding that HELCO will never call and ask for payment using bitcoin or prepaid money cards.

     For more, visit hawaiielectriclight.com.

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Firefighters work to suppress flames burning native forest from a wildfire in
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. NPSPhoto/MarkWasser

FIRE RISK IN 2019 MAY INCREASE due to expected lower rainfall over the next few months, states Hawaiʻi Wildfire Management Organization. "This may provide sunny dry weather and beautiful days, but it also means there will be a higher than normal fire hazard."

     Recommended precautions include: Clear yard and rain gutters to make sure they are free of leaves and debris. Keep grass cut short. Keep trees limbed up high from the ground, and away from roofs and windows. Make and practice family emergency plans. Work with neighbors on communal areas.
     Hawaiʻi Wildfire asks the public to be "aware of when and where you pull your car over (not on dry grass, please!), and when you use equipment that might spark (not when it is hot and windy, please!). We know from Dr. Clay Trauernicht's analyses at the University of Hawaiʻi that the majority of wildfires are started by accident, so we all need to take appropriate precautions."
     "Usually we remind everyone of these strategies at the start of fire season, but 'fire season' is not as much a relevant term right now, with prolonged, dry, fire-promoting conditions persisting through winter. Check out HWMO's many resources for how to keep you and your family wildfire-ready."

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OVERFLOW 2019: UNLEASHING YOUR UNTAPPED POTENTIAL SEVEN DAYS OF PRAYER AND FASTING ends tomorrow, Sunday, Jan. 13, with special services at 9:45 a.m. and 6 p.m. The event is hosted by Nā‘ālehu Assembly of God's Senior Pastor Rev. Kevin T. Brown and Pastor Rick Eilerman at Nā‘ālehu Assembly of God, 95-5678 Māmalahoa Highway.
     The event features five guest speakers: Pastor Mat Torres of Zion's House of Praise, Pastor Mark Parra of The House Hilo, Pastor Troy Gacayan of River of Life Assembly of God in Pāhala, and Rev. Ken Gaub of Ken Gaub Ministries.
     Ola Shaw of Kona and special guest musician Ricky "RNB" Brown of San Jose, CA, provide music for the event.
     For more, call 929-7278 or see naalehuag.org.

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HIGH SURF WARNING CLOSES ALL COUNTY BEACH PARKS FROM MILOLIʻI, north to Keokea in Kohala, as of 6 p.m. tonight through Sunday, reports Hawaiʻi county Civil Defense. West and north facing shores will bear the brunt of a "large Northwest swell," according to the National Weather Service.

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KAʻŪ TROJANS BEAT KONAWAENA WILDCATS on Friday in the boys varsity basketball game at home.

     During the JV game, Kaʻū scored 9 in the first quarter, 14 in the second, 6 in the third, and an impressive 22 in the fourth, ending at 51. Konawaena scored 63, barely taking the game. Kaʻū's Kealiʻikoa Reyes Nalu scored 18, Keenan Toriano scored 10.

     Varsity saw Kaʻū triumph, with 20 in the first, 8 in the second, 13 in the third, also scoring an impressive 22 in the fourth, to end at 63. Konawaena scored 60. Izaiah Pilanca Emmsley scored 31 for Kaʻū and Shesley Martinez scored 16.

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

See public Kaʻū events, meetings, entertainment. 

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

Print edition of The Kaʻū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes 

throughout Kaʻū, from Miloliʻi through Volcano, and free on 

stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com

and facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Kaʻū High Winter Sports Schedule

Girls Basketball:

Jan. 14, Mon., host Kealakehe, 6pm

Jan. 17, Thu., host Keaʻau

Jan. 25, Fri., BIIF Div. II Semi-Finals

Jan. 26, Sat., BIIF Div. II Finals

Boys Basketball:

Jan. 16, Wed., host Waiakea, 6pm

Jan. 18, Fri., @Kohala, 6pm

Jan. 21, Mon., @Hilo, 6pm

Jan. 23, Wed., @Laupāhoehoe, 6pm, Varsity

Wrestling:

Jan. 19, Sat., @Keaʻau

Jan. 26, Sat., @HPA

Soccer:

Jan. 14, Mon., @Makualani

Jan. 16, Wed., Boys host Kona

Jan. 18, Fri., Boys host Pāhoa

Jan. 21, Mon., Girls BIIF Div. II Semi-Finals
Jan. 22, Tue., Boys @Kohala

Jan. 23, Wed., Girls BIIF Div. II Finals

Swimming:

Jan. 19, Sat., @KCAC, 10am

Jan. 25, Fri., BIIF Trials @KCAC, 3:30pm

Jan. 26, Sat., BIIF Finals @KCAC, 1pm

NEW and UPCOMING

THURSDAY NIGHT AT THE CENTER: STORIES FROM THE SUMMIT is offered at Volcano Art Center's Ni‘aulani Campus in Volcano Village, on Jan. 24, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
     The evening, hosted by Volcano novelist Tom Peek, features personal accounts by Volcano residents who experienced 90 consecutive days of earthquakes this past summer, including varied tales of those living and working at Kīlauea's summit. Scientist-in-Charge at US Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, Tina Neal, will share stories of her experience.
     This event is free; $5 donation to Volcano Art Center is suggested. For more information, call 967-8222 or visit volcanoartcenter.org.
     This evening is part of a once-a-month Thursday night series at the Volcano Art Center, focusing on art, Hawaiian culture, and the environment. The series is intended to inspire and enhance appreciation of art and life experience, while fostering community connections.

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

SUNDAY, JANUARY 13
A Celebration of Life and Art: Honoring the Legacy of Dietrich Varez, Sun., Jan. 13, 1-3pm, Volcano Art Center's Ni‘aulani Campus. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

MONDAY, JANUARY 14
Free STD Testing, Mon., Jan. 14, 9-noon, Ocean View Community Center. Sponsored by Hawai‘i Department of Health. 2nd Monday, monthly. Call for appt. on different day or time. Teenagers 14+ do not need parent/guardian consent. Always confidential. Free condoms and lube. 895-4927

TUESDAY, JANUARY 15
Discovery Harbour Volunteer Fire Dept. Mtg., Tue., Jan. 15, 4:30-6:30pm, Discovery Harbour Community Hall. 929-9576, discoveryharbour.net

After Dark in the Park: Volcano Awareness Month - New Insights from Kīlauea's 2018 Lower East Rift Zone Eruption, Tue., Jan. 15, 7pm, Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium. USGS HVO geologist Matt Patrick presents. Free; donations accepted. Park entrance fees apply. 985-6011, nps.gov/havo

THURSDAY, JANUARY 17
Hawai‘i Disability Legal Services, Thu., Jan. 17, 9-noon, Ocean View Community Center. ovcahi.org, 939-7033

Hui ‘Ohana Parenting Education and Skills for Life Class, Thu., Jan. 17, 10-noon, Ocean View Community Center. Meets every Thursday. Free. Register w/ Lindsey Miller, 333-3460.

Family Reading Night, Thu., Jan. 17, 6-7pm, Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Hawai‘i's White Terns - Manu-o-Ku - an Urban Seabird by Susan Scott, Book Release and Presentation, Thu., Jan. 17, 6:30pm, Volcano Art Center's Ni‘aulani Campus. Free, $5 donation suggested. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

Lamb of God Baptist Church Revival, Thu, Fri., & Sat., Jan. 17-19, 7-9pm, Ocean View Community Association. All welcome. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

SATURDAY, JANUARY 19
Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund Community Clean-Up at Kamilo, Sat., Jan. 19, contact in advance for meet up details. Space may be available; BYO-4WD welcome. Free; donations appreciated. RSVP to kahakai.cleanups@gmail.com or call 769-7629.

Ocean View C.E.R.T. Mtg., Sat., Jan. 19, 10-1pm, Ocean View Community Center. Community Emergency Response Team monthly meeting and training. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Ocean View Community Association Annual Members Mtg., Sat., Jan. 19, 12:30-1:30pm, Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Ham Radio Mtg., Sat., Jan. 19, 2-3pm, Ocean View Community Center. ovcahi.org

ONGOING
Registration for P&R Boys & Girls, T-Ball/Coach Pitch Baseball League open through Jan. 16, Kahuku Park, H.OV.E. For ages 5-8. Programs run Jan. 22-Apr. 18, game and practice times tba. 929-9113, hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation

Preschool Opens Doors Applications are open for the 2019-2020 school year. The Department of Human Services encourages families to apply before March 29. This program is for families seeking aid in paying for preschool. Applications, available at patchhawaii.org, received during this period will be considered for preschool participation during July 1, 2019 and June 30, 2020. For more information, visit bit.ly/2TolEOm or call 800-746-5620.

Hui Mālama Ola Nā ʻŌiwi classes in January include Expanded Food and Nutrition Program (EFNEP) in Ka‘ū on Wednesdays, from Jan. 16 through Feb. 19. See more at hmono.org.

Substitute School Health Assistant Positions are available. Qualifications: CPR and First Aid certifications, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Training begins in 2019. Contact Kristy Loo for more at look@hkkk.k12.hi.us.

Applications for a Paid Internship in Kaʻū for Kupu Hawai‘i and The Nature Conservancy are being accepted. The year-long, full-time position is in TNC's Hawai‘i Island Terrestrial Program, which stewards native forest preserves in Ka‘ū and South Kona.

     Benefits offered include: a $1,600 monthly living allowance (before taxes); a $5,920 education award towards higher education; health care and childcare benefits (if eligible); and receiving an entry-level conservation career experience.

     Applicants must be at least 17 years old, and possess or be working towards a high school diploma or equivalent. Applicants must also have their own housing and transportation, a driver's license, and be able to pass a criminal history check.

     The internship is offered through Kupu Hawai‘i. Those interested are asked to fill out an application at kupuhawaii.org/conservation under Conservation Leaders Program as soon as possible. For more, call The Nature Conservancy at 443-5401 or call Kupu Hawai‘i at 808-735-1221.

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

Kaʻū News Briefs, Friday, January 11, 2019

Tulsi Gabbard's team running her campaign for President distributed this image today from Tulsi Now.
 Image from Tulsi Now

TULSI GABBARD IS RUNNING FOR PRESIDENT. The 37-year old Congresswoman made the announcement online to constituents, noting that an interview with her will be aired Saturday at 7 p.m. on CNN.

     An email to fans reads: "Earlier tonight I spoke with my friend Van Jones about the challenges we face and the future of our country. He asked me bluntly whether I'll run for president, and I told him straight: I've decided to run and will make a formal announcement next week.

     "There are many reasons I'm offering to serve you as President — to ensure every American gets the healthcare they need, to bring about comprehensive immigration reform, to make sure we have clean water and clean air for generations to come, to fix our broken criminal justice system, to end the corrupt influence of special interests in Washington, and so much more.

     "But the main reason I'm running has to do with an issue that is central to the rest — war and peace. I look forward to talking with you more about this in the coming days.

Gabbard opposes regime change and military intervention in the Middle
East, and supports many veterans groups. Photo from Gabbard's Facebook

     "When we stand together, united by our love for each other and for our country, there is no challenge we cannot overcome."

     Gabbard was born in 1981 in American Samoa. A Democrat, she served her first political position in Hawaiʻi's House of Representatives, at age 21, making her the youngest woman to be elected to a U.S. state legislature. She left the Hawaiʻi Legislature to serve from 2002 - 2004 in a medical unit of the Hawaiʻi National Guard in Iraq and later in Kuwait.
     When she returned, she took a post in 2006 as a legislative aid for U.S. Sen. Dan Akaka. She ran and joined the Honolulu City Council from 2011-2012. She has represented Hawaiʻi in the U.S. House of Representatives since 2013. Gabbard is the the first Hindu and first American Samoan member of Congress.
     She served as vice president of the Democratic National Convention, until she resigned to campaign for Berrnie Sanders for President.
     She has visited the Middle East during her congressional tenure, and opposes regime change and military intervention in the politics of the region. She champions many veterans causes. Gabbard remains in the Hawaiʻi National Guard and has advanced to the rank of Major.
     In the U.S. House, Gabbard represents Kaʻū and the rest of rural Hawaiʻi. She has been here many times, in particular to meet with farmers and ranchers. She is also an advocate of regulating pesticides.
     Should Gabbard win the presidency, she would be the first female, the first American Samoan, and the first Hindu to hold the position. At 39, she would also be the youngest person to become U.S. President.

     Gabbard's father is Sen. Mike Gabbard, who serves in the Hawai`i Legislature. Her husband is photographer Abraham Williams.

     See facebook.com/TulsiGabbard/, twitter.com/TulsiGabbard, and tulsi2020.com 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. A CONGRESSIONAL BAN ON PESTICIDE CHLORPYRIFOS is an aim of Rep. Tulsi Gabbard. Today she announced support for legislation to re-ban the use and stockpile of the "toxic pesticide, chlorpyrifos to protect our environment and the health of our people. The dangerous pesticide has been linked to damaging and often irreversible health outcomes in workers, pregnant women, and children. In addition to numerous harmful effects on human health, the chemical also creates severe learning and memory deficits in honey bees – potentially jeopardizing a critical pollinator and the health of ecosystems in Hawai‘i and across the country." Chlorpyrifos harms the nervous system of children and could also damage the memory of bees, says Tulsi Gabbard. Image from EarthJustice      Kaʻū's two physicians in the legislature, Sen. Josh Green – now Lt. Governor – and Rep. Richard Creagan, were leaders in the effort that led Hawaiʻi to become the first state to ban the chemical.      Gabbard explained that in March, 2017, Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Scott Pruitt reversed an existing ban on the use of chlorpyrifos that was put in place by the Obama Administration.      A statement from Gabbard says: "On Kauaʻi, after Syngenta Hawaiʻi exposed dozens of workers to chlorpyrifos (CPY) in 2016 and 2017, Syngenta opted to pay a fine of merely $150,000 and spend $400,000 on worker protection training sessions – a small fraction of the more than $4.8 million the Environmental Protection Agency was originally seeking. Last year, Hawai‘i became the first state in the country to ban pesticides containing chlorpyrifos."      Gabbard said today, "The people of Kaua‘i suffered the painful consequences of chlorpyrifos being used in our community, where dozens of workers were hospitalized from exposure to this dangerous pesticide. We cannot put a price tag on the health and lives of our people. The use of chlorpyrifos puts the health and well-being of our keiki, expectant mothers, field workers, agricultural communities, and our ʻaina and wai at risk. We must build on progress made in Hawai‘i and keep this toxic chemical out of our air, food, and water, and hold industrial agri-businesses accountable for endangering our people and our planet."      The Ban Toxic Pesticides Act would ban chlorpyrifos by canceling current EPA registration and prohibiting future registration of pesticides that contain chlorpyrifos.      Gabbard has also championed integrated pest management techniques and biocontrol solutions as alternative pathways to reduce chemical applications for controlling noxious weed and pest impacts on agriculture and the environment.

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.

HAWAIʻI STATE LEGISLATURE OPENS WEDNESDAY, Jan. 16, at 10 a.m. The Public Access Room reminds constituents that its staff will assist the public who cannot afford to go to Honolulu to keep track of legislation, legislators, and those promoting and opposing bills.
     For those able to join in the opening day, Public Access Room will host the Legislative Reference Bureau's annual Opening Day Potluck in room 401 of the Hawaiʻi State Capitol.

     PAR gave a presentation in Ocean View last year to help the citizenry get ready for the session. PAR offers online resources to learn how laws are made in Hawai‘i and how to participate in that process, including tips and tools citizens can use to effectively communicate with lawmakers. Workshops, designed to be helpful to newcomers and seasoned advocates alike, are held annually on Hawaiʻi Island.

     PAR staff can be reached by calling 808-587-0478 or emailing par@capitol.hawaii.gov. Their website is lrbhawaii.org/par. See information on important dates coming up in the 2019 Hawaiʻi State Legislature on Dec. 29 Kaʻū News Briefs.

http://kaunewsbriefs.blogspot.com/2018/12/kau-news-briefs-saturday-december-29.html

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SPEAK UP ABOUT HEALTH MATTERS IN KAʻŪ TOMORROW, Saturday, Jan. 12, from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Kaʻū Hospital, 1 Kamani Street, in Pāhala. The public is encouraged to give opinions on Kaʻū Hospital & Rural Health Clinic, and health needs and health care planning for Kaʻū, during Hawaiʻi Health Systems Corp.'s East Hawaiʻi Region annual public meeting and forum.

     An overview of operations and financial condition of all facilities, including Kaʻū and Hilo hospitals will be presented. A view toward the future will also be presented. Ample time will be available for community members to share their perspectives and concerns regarding access to health care services, says a statement from Hawaiʻi Health Systems.

     Dr. Daniel Belcher, Chair of the East Hawaiʻi Regional Board of HHSC, said, "I would like to encourage everyone who has an interest in our hospitals and regional health system to bring your questions and concerns to this meeting."

     For more information, contact Terry Larson, Regional Board Executive Assistant at 315-7558.

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.

FIRST ANNUAL ACTON CHILDREN'S BUSINESS FAIR IN PĀHALA happens Saturday, Feb. 9, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The fair aims to inspire children to "discover their inner entrepreneur," states childrensbusinessfair.org. "The largest entrepreneurship event for kids in North America, this one-day market gives children the opportunity to showcase their very own businesses."

     Planned for keiki ages 7 to 18 from all over the island, the event is hosted at River of Life Assembly of God, 96-2345 Paʻauau St., Pāhala. Applications are due Friday, Jan. 25.
     The flyer for the event says, "Whether an entrepreneur is famous like Elon Musk or Oprah Winfrey, or they are one of the thousands of unsung business owners across the country, these are the people who make sacrifices to innovate, create jobs, and serve their communities. We want to encourage our youth to reach whatever goals they may have in owning their own businesses. This event gives them the experience at doing so."

     The application asks kids to think through elements of their business: What product or service do you plan to sell? What price will you charge for each product/service? How much will each product/service cost you? How will you pay for your startup costs? If someone is helping you with your startup costs, how will you pay that person back? How will you advertise/market your business before the fair? At the end of the fair, how will you determine if your business was a success?

     Up to 15 businesses will be accepted to show their business at the fair. Up to three children are allowed per business. A donation of $5 per business is required. Booths will not have electricity. Parents are not allowed to sell or promote a child's product or service, though parents of younger children may sit in the booth so long as the child is responsible for set up, customer interactions, and sales. Parents may help their child fill out the application; however, the child should do as much as possible by themselves.

     To submit an application, visit childrensbuisnessfair.org/pahala. For more details, contact Regina Walker at 400-4722 or email pahalacbf@gmail.com.

     The Pāhala event is sponsored by Acton Academy, the Acton School of Business, Wiki Wiki Mart, KRW Enterprises, and individual donors and volunteers. "We all believe that principled entrepreneurs are heroes and role models for the next generation," states the website. 

     Action Children's Business Fair began in Austin Texas in 2007, with seven entrepreneurs and around 25 attendees, under the guidance of Jeff and Laura Sandefer and a few other families. The fair in Austin has since grown to over 115 entrepreneurs and over 1,500 attendees.

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

HIGH SURF IS APPROACHING WEST FACING SHORES of Hawaiʻi Island. The National Weather Service has forecast a large Northwest swell to impact shores from Upolu Point to South Point. NSW states it will issue High Surf Warnings and Advisories as the swell grows closer.

     Surf is forecast to build up through Saturday along Northwest shores and peak Saturday evening through Sunday. The highest threat for coastal impacts will coincide with the high tide, which occurs 8 a.m. Sunday.

     NWS warns: Oceanfront residents and beachgoers should be on alert for high and dangerous surf. Boat owners and oceanfront residents should take action to secure their property. Closures of roads and beaches may occur without notice.

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

See public Kaʻū events, meetings, entertainment. 

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

Print edition of The Kaʻū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes 

throughout Kaʻū, from Miloliʻi through Volcano, and free on 

stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com

and facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Kaʻū High Winter Sports Schedule

Girls Basketball:

Jan. 14, Mon., host Kealakehe, 6pm

Jan. 17, Thu., host Keaʻau

Jan. 25, Fri., BIIF Div. II Semi-Finals

Boys Basketball:

Jan. 16, Wed., host Waiakea, 6pm

Jan. 18, Fri., @Kohala, 6pm

Jan. 21, Mon., @Hilo, 6pm

Jan. 23, Wed., @Laupāhoehoe, 6pm, Varsity

Wrestling:

Jan. 12, Sat., @Kealakeha

Jan. 19, Sat., @Keaʻau

Soccer:

Jan. 12, Sat., host Honokaʻa

Jan. 14, Mon., @Makualani

Jan. 16, Wed., Boys host Kona

Jan. 18, Fri., Boys host Pāhoa

Jan. 21, Mon., Girls BIIF Div. II Semi-Finals
Jan. 22, Tue., Boys @Kohala

Jan. 23, Wed., Girls BIIF Div. II Finals

Swimming:

Jan. 12, Sat., @Kamehameha, 10am

Jan. 19, Sat., @KCAC, 10am

Jan. 25, Fri., BIIF Trials @KCAC, 3:30pm

NEW and UPCOMING
MAKING LEI WITH RANGERS AND HAWAI‘I PACIFIC PARKS ASSOCIATION STAFF is the focus of the ‘Ike Hana No‘eau, Experience the Skillful Work, two-hour program on Wednesday, Jan. 23, on the Kīlauea Visitor Center Lānai in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, starting at 10 a.m. Participation is free; however, park entrance fees apply.

     Lei making is a skill and art enjoyed in Hawai‘i for countless generations. Lei were constructed of flowers, leaves, shells, seeds, feathers and even bone or teeth of various animals. See nps.gov/havo 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.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 12
Pancake Breakfast & Raffle, Sat., Jan. 12, 8-11am, Ocean View Community Center. To volunteer, call 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Stained Glass Basics II: Fan Lamp Project, Sat. & Sun., Jan. 12, 13, 19 and 20, 9-noon, Volcano Art Center's Ni‘aulani Campus. Claudia McCall provides patterns to create a finished lamp or light catcher at end of 4-session workshop. $90/VAC member, $100/non-member, plus $30 supply fee/person. Additional $20 supply fee for lamp base and bulb. Limited space, pre-registration required. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

Nā Mamo o Kāwā ʻOhana Work Day, Sat., Jan. 12, meet 9:30am, Northern Gate, Kāwā. RSVP to James Akau, jakau@nmok.org, 561-9111. nmok.org, 
facebook.com/namamo.kawa

Introduction to Zentangle w/Ellen O'Dunn, Sat., Jan. 12, 10-1pm, Volcano Art Center's Ni‘aulani Campus. Supplies included, no experience necessary. Bring light refreshment to share. $30, plus $10 supply fee. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

Hawai‘i Health Systems Corp.'s East Hawai‘i Region Annual Public Mtg. and Forum, Sat., Jan. 12, 1:30-2:30pm, Ka‘ū Hospital & Rural Health Clinic, 1 Kamani Street, Pāhala. Terry Larson, Regional Board Executive Assistant, 315-7558

SUNDAY, JANUARY 13
A Celebration of Life and Art: Honoring the Legacy of Dietrich Varez, Sun., Jan. 13, 1-3pm, Volcano Art Center's Ni‘aulani Campus. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

MONDAY, JANUARY 14
Free STD Testing, Mon., Jan. 14, 9-noon, Ocean View Community Center. Sponsored by Hawai‘i Department of Health. 2nd Monday, monthly. Call for appt. on different day or time. Teenagers 14+ do not need parent/guardian consent. Always confidential. Free condoms and lube. 895-4927

TUESDAY, JANUARY 15
Discovery Harbour Volunteer Fire Dept. Mtg., Tue., Jan. 15, 4:30-6:30pm, Discovery Harbour Community Hall. 929-9576, discoveryharbour.net

After Dark in the Park: Volcano Awareness Month - New Insights from Kīlauea's 2018 Lower East Rift Zone Eruption, Tue., Jan. 15, 7pm, Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium. USGS HVO geologist Matt Patrick presents. Free; donations accepted. Park entrance fees apply. 985-6011, nps.gov/havo

THURSDAY, JANUARY 17
Hawai‘i Disability Legal Services, Thu., Jan. 17, 9-noon, Ocean View Community Center. ovcahi.org, 939-7033

Hui ‘Ohana Parenting Education and Skills for Life Class, Thu., Jan. 17, 10-noon, Ocean View Community Center. Meets every Thursday. Free. Register w/ Lindsey Miller, 333-3460.

Family Reading Night, Thu., Jan. 17, 6-7pm, Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Hawai‘i's White Terns - Manu-o-Ku - an Urban Seabird by Susan Scott, Book Release and Presentation, Thu., Jan. 17, 6:30pm, Volcano Art Center's Ni‘aulani Campus. Free, $5 donation suggested. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

Lamb of God Baptist Church Revival, Thu, Fri., & Sat., Jan. 17-19, 7-9pm, Ocean View Community Association. All welcome. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

ONGOING
Preschool Opens Doors Applications are open for the 2019-2020 school year. The Department of Human Services encourages families to apply before March 29. This program is for families seeking aid in paying for preschool. Applications, available at patchhawaii.org, received during this period will be considered for preschool participation during July 1, 2019 and June 30, 2020. For more information, visit bit.ly/2TolEOm or call 800-746-5620.

Registration for P&R Boys & Girls, T-Ball/Coach Pitch Baseball League open through Jan. 16, Kahuku Park, H.OV.E. For ages 5-8. Programs run Jan. 22-Apr. 18, game and practice times tba. 929-9113, hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation

Overflow 2019: Uleashing Your Untapped Potential, seven days of prayer and fasting hosted by Nā‘ālehu Assembly of God's Senior Pastor Rev. Kevin T. Brown and Pastor Rick Eilerman, takes place daily at 6 p.m. through Sunday, Jan. 13, with a special presentation on Sunday, Jan. 13 at 9:45 a.m., at Nā‘ālehu Assembly of God, 95-5678 Māmalahoa Highway.

     The event features five guest speakers: Pastor Mat Torres of Zion's House of Praise, Pastor Mark Parra of The House Hilo, Pastor Troy Gacayan of River of Life Assembly of God in Pāhala, and Rev. Ken Gaub of Ken Gaub Ministries.
     Ola Shaw of Kona and special guest musician Ricky "RNB" Brown of San Jose, CA, provide music for the event.
     For more, call 929-7278 or see naalehuag.org.

Substitute School Health Assistant Positions are available. Qualifications: CPR and First Aid certifications, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Training begins in 2019. Contact Kristy Loo for more at look@hkkk.k12.hi.us.

Applications for a Paid Internship in Kaʻū for Kupu Hawai‘i and The Nature Conservancy are being accepted. The year-long, full-time position is in TNC's Hawai‘i Island Terrestrial Program, which stewards native forest preserves in Ka‘ū and South Kona.

     Benefits offered include: a $1,600 monthly living allowance (before taxes); a $5,920 education award towards higher education; health care and childcare benefits (if eligible); and receiving an entry-level conservation career experience.

     Applicants must be at least 17 years old, and possess or be working towards a high school diploma or equivalent. Applicants must also have their own housing and transportation, a driver's license, and be able to pass a criminal history check.

     The internship is offered through Kupu Hawai‘i. Those interested are asked to fill out an application at kupuhawaii.org/conservation under Conservation Leaders Program as soon as possible. For more, call The Nature Conservancy at 443-5401 or call Kupu Hawai‘i at 808-735-1221.

Hui Mālama Ola Nā ʻŌiwi classes in January include Expanded Food and Nutrition Program (EFNEP) in Ka‘ū on Wednesdays, from Jan. 16 through Feb. 19. See more at hmono.org.

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

Kaʻū News Briefs, Thursday, January 10, 2019

The community is invited to join in the stewardship of Kāwā this Saturday, Jan. 12, from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
See event listing, below. Kāwā is in public hands through its purchase with money collected through county
property taxes, and state and federal funding. County funding for such projects is threatened by a
proposal to reduce the amount of property taxes set aside. Photo from Nā Mamo O Kāwā

TESTIMONY ON PROPOSED REDUCTION IN FUNDS FOR PUBLIC LANDS WILL BE HEARD Friday, Jan. 25, in Kona and Friday, Feb. 8, in Hilo at the county Charter Commission meeting. Kaʻū's Charter Commission member Michelle Galimba recently voted against the measure that would reduce the funding from 2 percent to less than 1 percent of property taxes received on this island for purchase of precious lands.

     Debbie Hecht – a manager of the campaign that succeeded in securing 2 percent of property taxes for land conservation through an amendment to the County Charter – urges the public to attend the Charter Commission meetings to testify against proposed Charter Amendment 7 and support Charter Amendment 9. She also encourages email testimony be sent to charter.commission@hawaiicounty.gov.

Students from Volcano School of Arts and Sciences collect seeds in Kāwā
during an August field trip. Photo from Nā Mamo O Kāwā

     Charter Amendment 7, says Hecht, "Guts the 2 percent land fund by reducing the fund to .75 percent of property taxes ($1.5 million which will not be enough money to purchase anything) and takes the Maintenance Fund from the Charter to the County Code where it can be changed each year to adjust the budget. Remember we decided that we needed a Charter Amendment when Mayor Kenoi stopped deposits to the fund for 2 years. Charter Amendments can only be changed by a vote of the people." Lands are chosen by the Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Commission, which makes recommendations to the County Council.
    Hecht says Charter Amendment 9, which Commissioner Michelle Galimba brought to the commission, "Uses 2 percent land fund monies to pay for a full time staff person working for the Department of Finance who is dedicated to only administering the 2 percent land fund program, acquiring property, obtaining matching funds, helping the public with suggestion forms, and the stewardship applications and administration of the Maintenance Fund.
     "The Department of Finance will have one less salary to pay. The changes will provide for building toilet facilities, paths, trails, and roads, and allowing board members and staff to be paid. The changes are to empower the non-profits to expand their good work to care for the 2% lands."
    During the Charter Commission meeting scheduled for tomorrow, Friday, Jan. 11, attendants can answer questions if any are asked, explained Hecht.
     Read more on Dec. 17, Nov. 11, and Oct. 16 Kaʻū News Briefs.

Students from Volcano School of Arts and Sciences water seedlings
of indigenous Hawaiian plants at Kāwā. Photo from Nā Mamo O Kāwā

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.

HAWAIʻI ISLAND HOME SALES DECLINED BY SEVEN PERCENT in 2018, according to an article by Real Estate Editor Janis L. Magin of Pacific Business News. She reports the eruption of Kīlauea failed to stop prices from rising, as the inventory shrunk with the loss of at least 750 homes. According to statistics from Hawaiʻi Information Service:
     Single-family home sales declined to 11.22 percent in December, to 182 homes sold, down from 205 homes sold in December 2017. The median price was $399,500, which was a 17.5 percent increase, from $340,000, in Dec. 2017. The median price for all of 2018 for a single-family home was $358,750, a 2.5 percent increase from $350,000 in 2017. Sales of single-family homes, however, declined by 6.69 percent to 2,330 houses sold, from 2,497 houses sold in 2017.

Community work day at Kāwā, where the public is invited to help steward 

the land. Photo from Nā Mamo O Kāwā.

     Condominium median sales price last month was $384,000, which was a 36.41 percent increase from $281,500 in Dec. 2017. Numbers of condos sold in December increased to 78 units sold, a 14.71 percent increase from 67 units sold during Dec. 2017. Condo sales for all of 2018 declined by 2.57 percent to 833 units sold, from 855 units sold in 2017. The median price for a Big Island condo in 2018 was $350,000, a 12.9 percent increase from $310,000 in 2017.
     In Puna – where the eruption of Kīlauea destroyed some 700 homes between May and July – sales of single-family homes in Puna declined by 6.76 percent in 2018 to 855 homes sold, from 917 homes sold in 2017. The median price of those homes rose 1.33 percent to $228,000, from $225,000 in 2017. Vacant land sales in Puna – much of the land destroyed by Kīlauea were undeveloped parcels – dropped 25.14 percent to 1,036 lots sold, from 1,384 lots sold in 2017. The median price of vacant land sales, however, rose to $22,000, a 10 percent increase from $20,000.

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.

David Yamamoto, the new County Public Works Director.
Photo from Big Island Video News

NEW COUNTY PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR IS DAVID YAMAMOTO. The County Council confirmed his nomination by Mayor Harry Kim yesterday during its Hilo meeting. Yamamoto is promoted from serving more than six years as Building Chief in the Building Division. A registered Professional Engineer, he worked in engineering and management for more than 26 years.
     Yamamoto replaces Allan Simeon, who announced in December that he planned to leave the post. Simeon will go back to working as a county engineer when Yamamoto takes over the department on Feb. 1.

     Yamamoto, a United States Air Force veteran, joined the County of Hawai‘i in 1995 as a Civil Engineer III, and prior to that, he worked at the state Department of Health from 1992.
     Kim, who was on hand for Wednesday’s council meeting to introduce his nominee, said, "We are really pleased that David agreed to take on this challenging job. David has done great work for the County for many years and has vast experience which will help us greatly."

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.

AL-ANON FAMILY GROUPS offers a new meeting at Discovery Harbour Community Center at 6:30 p.m., Tuesdays. For more information, text (808) 990-7248.
     Al-Anon is a group for those affected by other people's alcoholism. Holding meetings since 1952, Al-Anon is also open to Alcoholics Anonymous members who feel their lives are also affected by another person's drinking. "Al-Anon members are people, just like you, who are worried about someone with a drinking problem," says al-anon.org. "The alcoholic has three choices: institutions, recovery, or death. I have the same options. I choose recovery," is one message on the site.
     As with other Anonymous groups, members are asked to not discuss membership in other Anonymous Fellowships. Anonymous Fellowships – which include Al-Anon, A.A., Narcotics Anonymous, and more – are fee-free groups that rely on donations, where only first names are used. The groups are "a spiritual fellowship," guided by a 12 Step Program similar to A.A. 12 Steps:
     1. We admitted we were powerless over alcohol — that our lives had become unmanageable.
     2. Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.
     3. Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood Him.
     4. Made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves.
     5. Admitted to God, to ourselves, and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.
     6. Were entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character.
     7. Humbly asked Him to remove our shortcomings.
     8. Made a list of all persons we had harmed, and became willing to make amends to them all.
     9. Made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others.
     10. Continued to take personal inventory and when we were wrong promptly admitted it.
     11. Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood Him, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out.
     12. Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these steps, we tried to carry this message to others, and to practice these principles in all our affairs.
     Learn more at al-anon.org.

Kaʻū's Kianie Medeiros-Dancel looks for a shot 

while guarded by Kamehameha's Juliana Pakele 

during Tuesday night's game, hosted by 

the Lady Warriors. Photo by Tim Wright

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

KAʻŪ TROJANS GIRLS BASKETBALL went to Kamehameha Schools Hawaiʻi for a hard-fought game against the Lady Warriors on Tuesday night, Jan. 8.
     In the first quarter, Kaʻū scored 7, while Kamehameha scored 12. At Halftime, the score was 16 Kaʻū, 27 Kamehameha. The game ended with Kaʻū at 30, Kamehameha at 51.
     See below for upcoming home and away games, and come root for the home 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.

Kaʻū's Reishalyn Jara goes up for an 

uncontested shot during Tuesday night's 

game against Kamehameha. 

Photo by Tim Wright

BIIF 8-MAN FOOTBALL IS OUT, 11-MAN FOOTBALL IS IN. All 11 Big Island Interscholastic Federation teams will play 11-man football for the 2019 season.
     League coordinator and Kaʻū Athletics Director Kalei Namohala, who helped create 8-Man football in 2013 for the smaller schools, confirmed the change yesterday. She said the decision was made after Pāhoa's move from 8 back to the traditional team size of 11 players. The change was announced at Tuesday's islandwide monthly athletic directors meeting.
     Kohala will also return from 8-man to 11 man.
     Namohala said the Division in which Kaʻū will play and the schedule are yet to be worked out. Smaller schools, like Kaʻū, can choose to move up to Division I, where larger schools like Konawaena and Waiakea must play.
     For the coming season BIIF will have the second-largest number of 11-man teams of the five high school leagues in the state.

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

See public Kaʻū events, meetings, entertainment. 

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

Print edition of The Kaʻū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes 

throughout Kaʻū, from Miloliʻi through Volcano, and free on 

stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com

and facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Kaʻū High Winter Sports Schedule

Girls Basketball:

Jan. 14, Mon., host Kealakehe, 6pm

Jan. 17, Thu., host Keaʻau

Jan. 25, Fri., BIIF Div. II Semi-Finals

Boys Basketball:

Jan. 11, Fri., host Konawaena, 6pm

Jan. 16, Wed., host Waiakea, 6pm

Jan. 18, Fri., @Kohala, 6pm

Jan. 21, Mon., @Hilo, 6pm

Jan. 23, Wed., @Laupāhoehoe, 6pm, Varsity

Wrestling:

Jan. 12, Sat., @Kealakeha

Jan. 19, Sat., @Keaʻau

Soccer:

Jan. 12, Sat., host Honokaʻa

Jan. 14, Mon., @Makualani

Jan. 16, Wed., Boys host Kona

Jan. 18, Fri., Boys host Pāhoa

Jan. 21, Mon., Girls BIIF Div. II Semi-Finals
Jan. 22, Tue., Boys @Kohala

Jan. 23, Wed., Girls BIIF Div. II Finals

Swimming:

Jan. 12, Sat., @Kamehameha, 10am

Jan. 19, Sat., @KCAC, 10am

Jan. 25, Fri., BIIF Trials @KCAC, 3:30pm

NEW and UPCOMING

HAWAI‘I WILDLIFE FUND HOSTS A COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER CLEAN-UP AT KAMILO - located along the Ka‘ū Coast below Green Sands Subdivision in Nā‘ālehu - on Saturday, Jan. 19.
     Volunteers, contact Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund to get details. Space may be available in HWF vehicles, BYO 4-wheel-drive encouraged. Free; donations are appreciated. Call 769-7629 or email kahakai.cleanups@gmail.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.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 11

PATCH Class #701, Creating Supportive Environments I, Fri., Jan. 11, 8-11am, back pavilion, Punalu‘u Bakery, Nā‘ālehu. Making connection between the environment, social-emotional development, and challenging behaviors - specifically relating to pre-school, home day care, etc. Sponsored by Tūtū & Me Traveling Preschool. No childcare provided. 238-3472, rhall@patch-hi.org

PATCH Class #219, Building Relationships, Fri., Jan. 11, noon-3pm, back pavilion, Punalu‘u Bakery, Nā‘ālehu. Making connection between social and emotional development and challenging behaviors - specifically relating to pre-school, home day care, etc. No childcare provided. 238-3472, rhall@patch-hi.org

Free Artist in Residence Lecture and Concert w/Celebrated Composer Glenn McClure, Fri., Jan. 11, 6pm, Kīlauea Visitor Center. McClure is a composer, educator, and data scientist. Park entrance fees apply. 985-6011, nps.gov/havo

Free Community Dance, Fri., Jan. 11, 7-10pm, Cooper Center, Volcano Village. Minors allowed with supervision only. Alcohol-free event. Variety of music. Coffee, tea, water, and snack provided. Free; donations appreciated. 967-7800, thecoopercenter.org

SATURDAY, JANUARY 12
Pancake Breakfast & Raffle, Sat., Jan. 12, 8-11am, Ocean View Community Center. To volunteer, call 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Stained Glass Basics II: Fan Lamp Project, Sat. & Sun., Jan. 12, 13, 19 and 20, 9-noon, Volcano Art Center's Ni‘aulani Campus. Claudia McCall provides patterns to create a finished lamp or light catcher at end of 4-session workshop. $90/VAC member, $100/non-member, plus $30 supply fee/person. Additional $20 supply fee for lamp base and bulb. Limited space, pre-registration required. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

Nā Mamo o Kāwā ʻOhana Work Day, Sat., Jan. 12, meet 9:30am, Northern Gate, Kāwā. RSVP to James Akau, jakau@nmok.org, 561-9111. nmok.org, facebook.com/namamo.kawa

Introduction to Zentangle w/Ellen O'Dunn, Sat., Jan. 12, 10-1pm, Volcano Art Center's Ni‘aulani Campus. Supplies included, no experience necessary. Bring light refreshment to share. $30, plus $10 supply fee. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

Hawai‘i Health Systems Corp.'s East Hawai‘i Region Annual Public Mtg. and Forum, Sat., Jan. 12, 1:30-2:30pm, Ka‘ū Hospital & Rural Health Clinic, 1 Kamani Street, Pāhala. Terry Larson, Regional Board Executive Assistant, 315-7558

SUNDAY, JANUARY 13
A Celebration of Life and Art: Honoring the Legacy of Dietrich Varez, Sun., Jan. 13, 1-3pm, Volcano Art Center's Ni‘aulani Campus. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

MONDAY, JANUARY 14
Free STD Testing, Mon., Jan. 14, 9-noon, Ocean View Community Center. Sponsored by Hawai‘i Department of Health. 2nd Monday, monthly. Call for appt. on different day or time. Teenagers 14+ do not need parent/guardian consent. Always confidential. Free condoms and lube. 895-4927

TUESDAY, JANUARY 15
Discovery Harbour Volunteer Fire Dept. Mtg., Tue., Jan. 15, 4:30-6:30pm, Discovery Harbour Community Hall. 929-9576, discoveryharbour.net

After Dark in the Park: Volcano Awareness Month - New Insights from Kīlauea's 2018 Lower East Rift Zone Eruption, Tue., Jan. 15, 7pm, Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium. USGS HVO geologist Matt Patrick presents. Free; donations accepted. Park entrance fees apply. 985-6011, nps.gov/havo

THURSDAY, JANUARY 17
Hawai‘i Disability Legal Services, Thu., Jan. 17, 9-noon, Ocean View Community Center. ovcahi.org, 939-7033

Hui ‘Ohana Parenting Education and Skills for Life Class, Thu., Jan. 17, 10-noon, Ocean View Community Center. Meets every Thursday. Free. Register w/ Lindsey Miller, 333-3460.

Family Reading Night, Thu., Jan. 17, 6-7pm, Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Hawai‘i's White Terns - Manu-o-Ku - an Urban Seabird by Susan Scott, Book Release and Presentation, Thu., Jan. 17, 6:30pm, Volcano Art Center's Ni‘aulani Campus. Free, $5 donation suggested. volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222

Lamb of God Baptist Church Revival, Thu, Fri., & Sat., Jan. 17-19, 7-9pm, Ocean View Community Association. All welcome. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

ONGOING
The Public is Invited to Speak Up on Kaʻū Hospital & Rural Health Clinic, health needs, and health care planning for Kaʻū. Hawaiʻi Health Systems Corp.'s East Hawaiʻi Region annual public meeting and forum will take place Saturday, Jan. 12, from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Kaʻū Hospital, 1 Kamani Street, in Pāhala.

     An overview of the operations and financial condition of all facilities, including Kaʻū and Hilo hospitals, as well as a view toward the future, will be presented. Ample time will be available for community members to share their perspectives and concerns regarding access to health care services, said a statement from Hawaiʻi Health Systems.

     Dr. Daniel Belcher, Chair of the East Hawaiʻi Regional Board of HHSC, said, "I would like to encourage everyone who has an interest in our hospitals and regional health system to bring your questions and concerns to this meeting."

     For more information, contact Terry Larson, Regional Board Executive Assistant at 315-7558.

Preschool Opens Doors Applications are open for the 2019-2020 school year. The Department of Human Services encourages families to apply before March 29. This program is for families seeking aid in paying for preschool. Applications, available at patchhawaii.org, received during this period will be considered for preschool participation during July 1, 2019 and June 30, 2020. For more information, visit bit.ly/2TolEOm or call 800-746-5620.

Registration for P&R Boys & Girls, T-Ball/Coach Pitch Baseball League open through Jan. 16, Kahuku Park, H.OV.E. For ages 5-8. Programs run Jan. 22-Apr. 18, game and practice times tba. 929-9113, hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation

Overflow 2019: Uleashing Your Untapped Potential, seven days of prayer and fasting hosted by Nā‘ālehu Assembly of God's Senior Pastor Rev. Kevin T. Brown and Pastor Rick Eilerman, takes place daily at 6 p.m. through Sunday, Jan. 13, with a special presentation on Sunday, Jan. 13 at 9:45 a.m., at Nā‘ālehu Assembly of God, 95-5678 Māmalahoa Highway.

     The event features five guest speakers: Pastor Mat Torres of Zion's House of Praise, Pastor Mark Parra of The House Hilo, Pastor Troy Gacayan of River of Life Assembly of God in Pāhala, and Rev. Ken Gaub of Ken Gaub Ministries.
     Ola Shaw of Kona and special guest musician Ricky "RNB" Brown of San Jose, CA, provide music for the event.
     For more, call 929-7278 or see naalehuag.org.

Substitute School Health Assistant Positions are available. Qualifications: CPR and First Aid certifications, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Training begins in 2019. Contact Kristy Loo for more at look@hkkk.k12.hi.us.

Applications for a Paid Internship in Kaʻū for Kupu Hawai‘i and The Nature Conservancy are being accepted. The year-long, full-time position is in TNC's Hawai‘i Island Terrestrial Program, which stewards native forest preserves in Ka‘ū and South Kona.

     Benefits offered include: a $1,600 monthly living allowance (before taxes); a $5,920 education award towards higher education; health care and childcare benefits (if eligible); and receiving an entry-level conservation career experience.

     Applicants must be at least 17 years old, and possess or be working towards a high school diploma or equivalent. Applicants must also have their own housing and transportation, a driver's license, and be able to pass a criminal history check.

     The internship is offered through Kupu Hawai‘i. Those interested are asked to fill out an application at kupuhawaii.org/conservation under Conservation Leaders Program as soon as possible. For more, call The Nature Conservancy at 443-5401 or call Kupu Hawai‘i at 808-735-1221.

Hui Mālama Ola Nā ʻŌiwi classes in January include Expanded Food and Nutrition Program (EFNEP) in Ka‘ū on Wednesdays, from Jan. 16 through Feb. 19. See more at hmono.org.

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.