Ānuenue Cottage

This calendar is prepared by Patti Cook on behalf of Waimea Community Association (WCA).  To include community events in this calendar, email cookshi@aol.com.  Deadline for information: Saturday please!   For complete calendar, go to www.WaimeaTown.org.

 IMPORTANT COMMUNITY EVENTS:

 FINAL DAY OF PARKER SCHOOL SCHOLASTIC BOOK FAIR:  7:30-9 a.m. and 1:30-4 p.m., Thurs., Nov. 4, 2010.  At Parker School ‘Ohana room.  Info: 885-7933 x300.

IMPORTANT – WAIMEA COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION MONTHLY TOWN MEETING:  5:15 p.m., Thurs., Nov. 4, 2010 and the first Thursday of most months (no December meeting).  NOTE SPECIAL LOCATION:  Kahilu Theatre!  Come learn more about this season’s highlights, the new all-free Makana Series, hopes, dreams and challenges.  As always for WCA Town Meetings, donations for Waimea food pantries requested and this meeting will include an update on Annunciation Catholic Church’s pantry experience with serving the community by Ann Lum and a “Pass the Hat” request for kokua – preferably checks or cash to enable pantry staff to purchase gift certificates from local grocery stores to provide fresh fruit and vegetables and other essentials for families in need.  Also, Hot coffee provided by Starbucks-Waimea for all meetings.  Info:  Sherm Warner (885-1725).  

5^TH ANNUAL MOKU O KEAWE INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL:  6 p.m., Thurs.-Sun., Nov. 4-7, 2010.  Waikoloa Beach Resort.  An international competition coupled with hula workshops and special appearance by Merrie Monarch Festival winners.  International hula competition at Queens’ Gardens brings together halau from Japan, the U.S. Mainland and Hawai‘i in Kupuna, Hula Kahiko and Hula Auwana groups and solo divisions as follows:

• Kahiko competition: Thurs., Nov. 4.
• Kupuna competition and awards:  Fri., Nov. 5.
• ‘Auwana competition and awards:  Sat., Nov. 6.

Ticket prices: $5 Lawn seating, $10 Reserved.  Program also includes: 

* Hawaiian Cultural Workshops with masters of hula who are the competition judges sharing  their knowledge.  The insights and experiences from each kumu hula – Nalani Kanakaole, Howard Ai, Uluwehi Guerrero and Kaleo Trinidad — provide unique insights into both hula kahiko and hula auwana, and how the various lineages of the kumu hula guide style, repertoire and interpretation.   Also includes class on making ipu heke and an excursion to Mahukona.  Registration limited; register early by visiting www.MOKIF.org.

* A Hawai‘i Marketplace, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Fri. and Sat., Nov, 5 & 6 will feature hula implements, fresh lei, silk-screened clothing, woven lauhala hats and purses, and jewelry.

* Hō‘ike Night:  6 p.m., Sun., Nov. 7 at the Waikoloa Bowl.  Will include hula workshop students and an appearance by Kumu Hula O’Brian Eselu and his men of Ke Kai O Kahiki, which has garnered many awards in the Merrie Monarch Festival,  Tickets for Ho’ike Night are Lawn seating $10, Reserved $20.

WAIKOLOA’S VET CENTER OUTREACH:  9 a.m.-Noon, Fri., Nov. 5, 2010 and the first and third Friday of November & December 2010.  To better serve Veterans and their families, representatives available to all Veterans and their families or anyone with questions about Veterans’ Benefits, issues, or services.  Waikoloa Village Market.  Info: Maricar Souza (969-3833). 

10^th ANNUAL HOKU CONCERT SERIES FEATURES ‘MIZ SAIGON’:  7:30 p.m., Fri., Nov. 5, 2010.  A benefit for Aloha Performing Arts Company at a private venue at Hualalai Resort.  Tickets www.alohatheatre.com or call 322 9924.

HAWAI’I HIGH SCHOOL RODEO ASSOCIATION SEASON CONTINUES:  Sat.-Sun., Nov. 6-7, 2010.  Parker Ranch Arena-Waimea.  Promotes the sport of rodeo, sportsmanship, paniolo heritage, land and animal stewardship and youth scholarship.  Each island has keiki, junior high and high school divisions.  Junior High and high school competitors compete in their district and then at the state level here in Waimea, then the top four in each event has an opportunity to compete nationally, Generally, rodeos are the first weekend of the month with Keiki (Grades K-5) and Junior High (6-8) on Saturday beginning at 8 a.m., and High School (9-12) from 8 a.m. on Sunday.  Admission free; donations welcome and concessions support the program.  Info: 776-1693 or 938-1496.  Future dates: Jan. 8-9, Feb. 5-6, March 5-6, April 1-2, May 7-8 (District Finals). 

HAMAKUA CDP INFORMATION GATHERING WORKSHOPS:  Sponsored by Steering Committee and will follow open house formats, beginning with informational presentations on issues such as land use and its relationship to agriculture, and local access issues.  Presentations at 9:30 & 10:30 a.m. with Steering Committee meeting at noon.  Everyone invited to share your knowledge of your community.   Meetings as follows:   

• Hamakua:  9 a.m. – 1 p.m., Sat., Nov. 6, 2010: NHERC ), 45-539 Plumeria St., Honoka’a
• North Hilo:  9 a.m. – 1 p.m., Sat., Nov. 20, 2010.  Pāpa‘aloa Gym, 

VOLUNTEER DAYS AT ULU LA’AU WAIMEA NATURE PARK:  9 a.m. to Noon, Saturdays – Nov. 6, 20, Dec. 4 & 18.  Everyone welcome.  Bring water and sack lunch and favorite gloves. Everyone invited.  Info: 885-4453. 

LYDIA’S CLOSET THRIFT SHOP IN HONOKA’A CELEBRATES FIRST ANNIVERSARY:  9 a.m. 3 p.m., Sat., Nov. 6, 2010.  Everything $1 and everyone invited.  Also, everyone who has purchased a ticket for cinnamon or sweet bread in the Honoka’a United Methodist Church sale can come from 9 – noon to pick up their purchase.  Lydia’s Closet is in the Sunday school building just above the church on Mamane Street across from Blane’s.  Proceeds support church programs.  Info: 775-0566.

TIME TO REGISTER FOR NHERC CLASSES:  UH-sponsored.  To register: 775-8890.

• Intro to FaceBook: Sat., Nov. 6, 9 a.m.-noon $35.
• Stained Glass Art series:  Saturdays Nov. 6-20, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Tuition $80, equip/materials $40, glass $10 up.

INTRODUCING WAIMEA’S NEW SATURDAY ‘CROP SWAP’:  12:30-3 p.m., Saturdays, Nov. 6, 12, 20, 27 and Dec. 4 & 11, 2010.  At Mala’ai: The Culinary Garden of Waimea Middle School.  Do you have more tomatoes, avocadoes or lemons than you can eat?  Come trade your surplus produce for fresh foods grown by your neighbors and community farmers.  Coordinated by Mala’ai and The Kohala Center with a Richard Smart Ho’ohui O Waimea grant from Hawai’i Community Foundation, the Crop Swap is open to everyone – no one will be turned away.  Based on the tradition of sharing among neighbors and ‘ohana, the Crop Swap welcomes farmers, home gardeners and local residents to exchange surplus produce.  If you don’t have produce to share, you can just lend a hand – there’s always plenty to do.  At the end, excess food will be donated to Waimea food pantries.  To get to Mala’ai, please enter on the new gravel entry drive to Waimea Middle School campus.  Questions?  Nicole Milne (987-9210). 

WAIMEA NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS WEEKLY MEETING:  5:30 p.m., Saturdays.  At Mama’s House Thrift Store – next to Napa Auto Parts on Mamalahoa Highway.  Everyone welcome. 

CAMP TARAWA DETACHMENT CELEBRATES MARINE CORPS 235^th BIRTHDAY:  Sat., Nov. 6, 2010.  At Tommy Bahama’s at the Mauna Lani Shops.  5 p.m. reception with dinner at 6.  All services, all ranks, and all friends invited.  Please wear uniforms if you have them.  Reservations a must:  Jim or Alice Browne (883-0069).

‘AN OLD HAWAI’I NIGHT’ BENEFIT FOR FAMILY SUPPORT HAWAII:  5 p.m., Sat., Nov. 6, 2010.  Waikoloa Beach Marriott.  Silent and live auctions featuring vintage Hawaiiana, plus 3-course gourmet dinner.  $125 per person.  Info/reservations: 334-4152 or go to www.familysupporthawaii.org.

KAWAIHAE LOCAL RESOURCE COUNCIL MONTHLY MEETING:  2-4 p.m., Sun., Nov. 7, 2010.  At the Hamakua Macadamia Nut Company.  Two topics: Kawaihae-based Liquid Robotics-Test and Evaluation Manager, Eric Brager will explain how a version of what looks like a paddle board can travel thousands of miles using solar and wave energy.  Also, Noelani Puniwai of UH-Hilo will report on her research collecting and creating a GIS map of potential locations for aquaculture on the Big Island.  Info:  Sara Peck, UH Sea Grant College Program Coastal Resources Extension Agent (329-2861) or email peck@hawaii.edu. 

REGULAR KAHILU THEATRE SEASON:  Info: 885-6868 or go to www.kahilutheatre.org. 

• Sun., Nov. 7, 2010 – 7 p.m. – LAGQ and Phil Proctor
• Tues., Nov. 23, 2010 – 7 p.m. – Makana
• Tues., Jan 18, 2011 – 7 p.m. – Noche Flamenca
• Wed., Jan. 26, 2011 – 7 p.m. – Ladysmith Black Mambazo
• Sun., Jan. 30, 2011 – 7 p.m. – Battlefield Band
• Wed., Feb. 2, 2011 – 7 p.m. – Chris O’Riley and Carter Brey
• Sun., Feb. 13, 2011 – 7 p.m. – IMAGO Theatre “ZooZoo”
• Fri., Feb. 18, 2011 – 8 p.m. – ‘Ukulele and Slack Key Guitar Masters I
• Sat., Feb. 19, 2011 – 8 p.m. – ‘Ukulele and Slack Key Guitar Masters II
• Thurs., Feb. 24, 2011 – 7 p.m. – Philadanco! – The Philadelphia Dance Co.
• Mon., March 7, 2011 – 7 p.m. – Takacs Quartet with Joyce Yang
• Tues., March 29, 2011 – 7 p.m. – Azure Barton And Artists
• Fri., April 15, 2011 – 8 p.m. – Afro-Cuban Allstars
• Sat., June 4, 2011 – 8 p.m. – The Brothers Cazimero

WAIMEA BALLROOM DANCE CLUB ARGENTINE TANGO LESSONS:  Mondays at Waimea Elementary School Cafeteria through Nov. 29.  Instructor Angel Prince.  Registration at 6:30 p.m. $10 to join club, $15 for hour-long lessons starting at 7, followed by 30 minutes of practice mixer.  No partner necessary.  Argentine Tango is a slow sensual dance, come join the fun.  Info: Peter In (885-4776).

WAIMEA SENIOR CLUB MONTHLY MEETINGS.  9 a.m., Tues., Nov. 9, 2010 (and the 2^ND Tuesday of each month).  Waimea Senior Center.  All persons 55+ invited to join.  Daily activities include: Mondays: Hawaiian quilting, Tuesdays: Meetings & crafts, Wednesdays:Line Dancing, Thursdays: Mah Jong, Fridays: Ground Golf, Ukulele lessons & Hula Lessons.  Info:  Pat Lewi, President (885-4307).

IMPORTANT – SOUTH KOHALA TRAFFIC SAFETY COMMITTEE MONTHLY MEETING:  4 p.m., Tues., Nov. 9, 2010 and second Tuesday of every month.  Waimea Civic Center near the Courts and Police Station.  Community urged to attend to learn about issues and provide input.  All welcome to attend.  Info:  Chair Mike Price email: whao@hawaii.rr.com.

REEFTALK DOUBLE HEADER – FROM CRISIS TO SOLUTIONS:  6:30 p.m., Tues., Nov. 9, 2010.  Thelma Parker Memorial Library in Waimea,  High surf, tsunami, cliff sloughing, sinking and sea level rise are potential hazards for homes and businesses located along Hawaii Island’s coastline.  Guest presenter Andrew Bohlander, a UH Sea Grant Coastal Processes Specialist, currently consults with Hawaii County planners, emergency managers, businesses, landowners and State agencies to identify coastal hazards, determine safe setbacks and project potential future changes.  Mr. Bohlander will discuss his work with coastal property owners and businesses, with the goal of reducing vulnerability and improving resilience to natural disasters. 
Also, Noelani Puniwai with Pacific Aquaculture and Coastal Resources Center (PACRC) with UH-Hilo, will discuss looking at aquaculture to build food self-sufficiency.  She will explain her work using GIS to model areas for potential use of caged aquaculture, line culture, intertidal bottom culture and fishponds.  Info:  Sara Peck with UH Sea Grant College Program (329-2861) or email peck@hawaii.edu.   

WAIMEA COMMUNITY CHORUS:  7-9 p.m., Tuesday rehearsals have begun for the 17th Annual Christmas Concert by the 50+ voice chorus at St. James Episcopal Church in Waimea. Christmas music composed specifically for stage or movie productions will be featured in the concert. Selections will range from “Babes in Toyland” (1903 operetta) to “Mame” (1966 Broadway Musical) to “A Christmas Carol” (2009 animated Disney movie).  Info: Barbara Kopra (885-8884).

PLANNING MEETING FOR 5OTH ANNUAL WAIMEA CHRISTMAS TWLIGHT PARADE & ALL-DAY LOKAHI GIVING PROJECT:  8:30 a.m., Wed., Nov. 10 & 24 and Dec. 1, 2010.  Waimea Center Community Conference Room (home of KTA and McDonalds – upstairs above cowboy statue).  Everyone welcome to finalize arrangements for 6 p.m., Sat., Dec. 4, 2010 parade and all day ingathering of donations to support our community.  Info: Lani Olsen-Chong (936-0670).  More info and parade rules and application, go to: www.WaimeaTown.org. 

KAHILU THEATRE’S FREE MAKANA SERIES COMMUNITY EVENTS:  Info: 885-6868 or go to www.kahilutheatre.org.

• Wed., Nov. 10, 2010 – 7 p.m. – Film “PIKO: A Gathering of Indigenous Artists”
• Sun., Jan. 9, 2011 – 7 p.m. – Kelly Paige, Matt Snook & Friends
• Sun., Jan. 16, 2011 – 4 p.m. – Kamuela Philharmonic
• Thurs., Feb. 17, 2000 – ‘Ukulele and Slack Key Guitar Institute
• Tues.,, Feb. 22, 2011 – 7 p.m. – Alpin Hong
• Mon., Feb. 28, 2011 – 7 p.m. – Film: “Patsy Mink: Ahead of the Majority”
• Sun., March 20, 2011 – 4 p.m. – Kamuela Philharmonic

HALE HO’OLA HAMAKUA NEEDS VOLUNTEERS:  North Hawai’i’s critical access hospital and long-term care facility welcomes kokua – sharing time with our kupuna…reading, knitting, visiting…bringing cheer and companionship!  Info: Laura DeRose @ 808-775-7211 Ext. 273 or email: lderose@hhsc.org. 

LOKAHI GIVING SEASON BEGINS:  This statewide giving project focuses on the immediate community’s needs.  Working in partnership with many community service organizations, schools and churches, the Lokahi team welcomes individual donors, business, club or church group sponsors.  They seek tangible items, food (the #1 request) and basic household necessities and gifts.  Participants also may adopt a family.  Lokahi Hotline: 883-8832 and leave a message or call Rhonda Bell (885-5039.)

3^rd ANNUAL ‘TAKE IT OFF HAWAI’I’ 2010:  Now thru Nov. 14, 2010 to benefit your overall wellness. Creative ways to earn points, web-based point logs, motivational mid-program event and more.  Still time to gather 4-10 of your best buddies and become a team leader “Health Champion” in this successful 10-week program.  Enjoy the benefits of this popular wellness initiative sponsored by Five Mountains Hawai’i with helpful health hints, yummy recipes, resourceful people and supportive spirit. A great way to learn while you burn calories. Info: Keala Barnett (887-1281) or email: info@fivemountains.org or go to: www.fivemountains.org.  

EXCITING NEW WAIMEA COMMUNITY EDUCATION CLASSES:  “Get To the Art of Things” with Patrick Ching, Beginning Astrology, South of the Border Cuisine, “Taming Tuff Meat For Tuff Times,” and much more.  Go to www.waimeaeducation.com. 

HAWAII ISLAND HUMANE SOCIETY ‘PETS IN PARADISE’ 2011 CALENDAR ARRIVES:  a full color calendar for $10 with 12 monthly pin-up pets plus vignettes throughout that include every pet photo entry.  Available at shelters in Waimea, Kona and Keaau, at Ginger & Koi Voutique and Kona Stories, and Ali’i Veterinary.  Includes dogs, cats, birds and even a smiling goat. 

AARP SEEKING TAX-AIDE VOLUNTEERS:  AARP in conjunction with the IRS is looking for volunteers to be trained to prepare tax returns after passing an IRS open book test.  Volunteers also needed to greet and sign-in clients, answer questions and assist at the site.  The tax season is approx. Feb. 1 to April 15, and training will be in January 2011.  Waimea’s tax site will again be the Hunter Education building on Lalamilo Farm Rd.  Volunteers will be scheduled for Mondays and/or Thursdays and are asked to commit at least four hours per week during tax season.  Info: Helga Tossmann (217-1776). 

IMPORTANT – ANUENUE PLAYGROUND – WAIMEA COMMUNITY CALL TO ACTION:  Initial attention will focus on keiki safety — pressure washing, sanding, sealing, decking and seating repairs, fencing repair/replacement, post replacement.  Will need a wide array of skills, tools, materials & financial support.  Go to www.WaimeaTown.org, or Facebook.com/AnuenuePark for more details.  This project is being coordinated by Waimea Community Association and Waimea Preservation Association in partnership with Hawaii County Parks & Rec staff, and with kokua from North Hawai’i Rotary and Waimea Outdoor Circle.  Everyone’s help and generosity needed.  Info:  Sherman Warner (885-1725), Alex Woodbury (640-1566), Alycia Juvik (960-2760), Bill Sanborn (895-1122), Melissa Samura (640-7755), Uvonne Lindsey (345-9174).  

EXTENSIVE FALL CLASSES OFFERED AT KOHALA’S NEW ‘LEARNING CENTER’:  Go to www.KohalaLearning.org for full class roster and how to register.  A project sponsored by the North Kohala Community Resource Center for all ages.  Classes range from arts and crafts including (back by popular demand) The Enchanted Treehouse and Ni’ihau style ipu decoration, to programs for youth and adults including a Hawaiian History Series and what’s involved in homeschooling, to fun and games including an Elementary-High School Chess Club and creative Saturdays programming.  There is a charge for some programs. Info: www.kohalalearning.org.  .  

HPA’s KA MAKANI THEATRE PRESENTS “INTO THE WOODS”:  7 p.m., Nov. 11-14, 2010 and 4 p.m., Nov. 14.  “Once upon a time,” one of the best-known phrases in the English language, comes to life in Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine’s iconical musical.  Tickets available at the door:  $10/adults and $5/students.  Based on stories by the Brothers Grimm, most of which have been modified over decades to a more politically correct, positive form, the musical explores wishes and desires through two very different acts. The first act centers on the well-known characters of Cinderella, Jack of Beanstalk fame, Little Red Riding Hood and Rapunzel, as well as two lesser known characters, the Baker and his wife. Each character wants something “more than anything,” and is either thwarted or assisted by the neighborhood witch, the Big Bad Wolf, and two Prince Charmings.  Info: 881-4099.

WAIMEA COMMUNITY THEATRE PRESENTS ‘FIDDLER ON THE ROOF’:  Nov. 12-13-14, 19-20-21, and 26-27-28, 2010.  7:30 p.m., Fri. & Sat. evenings and 3 p.m. Sunday matinees.   Parker School Theatre.  Tickets $15/Adults; $13/Seniors; $12/Students; $10/Keiki; $2 discount for advance purchase at Waimea General Store or at Without Boundaries.   This popular musical will be presented by a large cast of familiar community friends.  Info: Director Miguel Bray (938-3062) or Producer Felicity Johnson (938-4603).  Info: 885-5818 or go to www.waimeacommunitytheatre.org.

KAMUELA HONGWANJI MISSION MEMBERS’ GARAGE SALE:  7:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., Sat., Nov. 13, 2010.  In the temple’s parking lot in historic Church Row Park.  Everyone invited.  Info: Jean Saito (315-8130). 

FIRST ANNUAL WAIKOLOA FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY 3K WALK/RUN:  Sat., Nov. 13, 2010.  7 a.m. registration begins at the Waikoloa Bookmobile (next to the 1st tee of the Waikoloa Golf Course); Group Warm-Up at 7:30 a.m.; Walk/Run starts at 7:45 a.m.  A $10 donation includes a tee-shirt and pancake breakfast.  Children under 8 are free and receive a ribbon instead of a tee-shirt and a pancake breakfast.  Waivers must be signed by each participant with a  parent/guardian signing for any children in the walk/run.  For breakfast only a $5 donation suggested for pancakes, sausages, orange section, coffee, fruit punch and/or water; Keiki under 8 eat free. 

ST. JAMES’ CIRCLE YARD SALE:  9 a.m. – 2 p.m., Sat., Nov. 13, 2010.  A huge sale with lots of bargains including furniture, household items, games, books, furnishings and more.  A Holiday Store and Food Booth with onolicious plate lunches, baked goods, jams, jellies, and chutney at St. James’ Church.  Plus, fun for the keiki with a fishing game and a shave ice booth at Waimea Country School.  A benefit for St. James’ Church, Waimea Country School, and Small World Preschool. 

MAUNA KEA QUILTERS MONTHLY MEETING:  9:30 a.m. – Noon, Sat., Nov. 13, 2010 and 2^nd Saturday of every month in the Thelma Parker Memorial Library Meeting Room.  This patchwork quilters group who enjoy sharing their love of quilting with others begins their monthly meetings with a short business session and show & tell.  The group generously contributs quilts to support a variety of community organizations such as Mala’ai: The Culinary Garden of Waimea Middle School and Waimea Relay for Life.  They also have provided quilts to the police/fire department and North Hawaii Community Hospital for those in need and at Christmas they make quilted stockings and quilts for needy children.  Info: Becky Parkinson (937-2159). 

KAMEHAMEHA SCHOOLS ALUMNI ASSOCIATION – WEST HAWAI’I REGION GENERAL MEETING:  Noon, Sat., Nov. 13, 2010.  At the Bridge Building at Hualalai Academy, 74-4966 Kealaka’a Street, Kailua-Kona.  Featured speaker, Thomas Kaeo Duarte, Regional Asset Manager for the Kamehameha Schools.  Lunch to follow.   Info:  Sharon (895-1817).

HONOKA’A ENSEMBLE’S 16^TH ANNUAL ALUMNI CONCERT:  Sat., Nov. 13, 2010 at Honoka’a People’s Theatre.  Doors open at 6 p.m.  Show starts at 7 p.m.  Directed by Gary Washburn, featuring Alumni from Classes of 1971-2008.  General Admission $5.  All proceeds benefit Honoka’a High’s music department.  Everyone invited!

IMPORTANT — NORTH HAWAII COMMUNITY HOSPITAL 23rd ANNUAL SENIORS FAIR:  8 a.m. to noon, Sun., Nov. 14, 2010.  Lunch follows.  Everyone invited!  Dozens of screenings and informational booths.  All free.  More details to come. 

KOHALA MISSION SCHOOL’S 35^TH ANNIVERSASRY CULTURAL FAIR:  Noon-5 p.m., Sun., Nov. 14, 2010.  Friends, alumni and all who are looking for a great family fun day are invitedc.  Waterslide, Bake/Crafts Tables, Cultural Food Plates/ Hawaiian, Samoan Umu and more including a Silent Auction with surprises.  Info:  Charity Espina (895-9354).

SECURE HORIZONS MEDICARE INFORMATIONAL MEETING:  2 p.m., Tues., Nov. 16, 2010.   Thelma Parker Memorial Library.  Learn Medicare 101 and about the $0 premium Secure Horizons Medicare plan. Everyone welcome.  Info: Karen Rowland (640-6981).   

HAWAII LEARNING RESOURCE PROGRAM TO HOLD PARENTING WORKSHOP ON ORGANIZATIONAL SKILLS & TIME MANAGEMENT FOR 5^TH-9^TH GRADERS:  6-7:30 p.m., Thurs., Nov. 18, 2010.  Free at Tutu’s House.  Will provide parents/caregivers with skills and strategies to work with their child in specific learning areas.  Also will provide educators with resources to help better support their students and increase communication and parent collaboration.  Hawaii Learning Resource is the dba of North Hawai’i Women and Children’s Service, a Waimea based 501(c)(3) to help and empower diverse learners in school and in life.   Future workshops will be the third Thursday of every month thru April 2011 except December.  Info: www.hawaiilearningresource.org, or call Toni Stylos,885-9318.   

NORTH HAWAI’I HOSPICE’ ANNUAL “LIGHT UP A LIFE” CHRISTMAS TREE ORNAMENT SALE TO REMEMBER LOVED ONES:  To honor the memory of loved ones whose names can be written on an ornament which will be hung on a remembrance tree at Parker Square in Waimea after November 28.  Ornaments may be purchased in front of Waimea General Store, KTA SuperStores-Waimea, Foodland and Ace Hardware, Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays, Nov. 19 through Dec. 5, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.  Also at Waimea Town Market at Parker School on Saturdays, November 20, 27, December 4 and 11 between 8 a.m. and noon.  Order forms are available at NHH office (885-7547).  Info, go to www.northhawaiihospice.org.  Note: volunteers for ornament sales welcome for 2-hour shifts.  Call Jackie Wright (885-4210). 

BEAMER-SOLOMON HALAU O PO’OHALA PRESENTS ‘EIA KA HULA’ (BEHOLD THE HULA):  6:30-8:30 p.m., Fri., Nov. 19, 2010.  Palace Theatre, Hilo.  Doors open at 5:30 p.m.  Themed “Behold the Hula,” this 90-minute hula drama explores Hawai’i history with Artist Herb Kane’s art work, Beamer family music, Hawaiian slack key and falsetto.  Guest performances by the Hawai’i Community College led by Dr. Taupouri Tangaro and Kumu Keala Ching and Na Wai Iwi Ola.  Tickets $25/adults.  Info: 885-3553 or email malama_solomon@yahoo.com. 

 PARKER SCHOOL ADMISSION OPEN HOUSE:  9-11 a.m., Sat. Nov. 20, 2010.  For families of prospective Kindergarten – 12^th grade students.  Tour campus and speak with faculty, staff and students about the academic, athletic and fine arts offerings.  Info: Ann Renick (885-7933 x107) or email arenick@parkerschool.net.

 KAWAIHAE CANOE CLUB’S ANNUAL BENEFIT LUAU:  5:30-10 p.m., Sat., Nov. 20, 2010.  Not to be missed:  great food, entertainment, and cause in a beautiful location at water’s edge.  Tickets $25/advance and $30 at the door; children (5 – 10 years) $15 at the door. Tickets available from club members or call Izzy (987-2819) or Debbie (937-4700). 

 IMPORTANT – SOUTH KOHALA CDP ACTION COMMITTEE MEETING:  5 p.m., Mon., Nov. 22, 2010, and the 4^th Monday of each month.  Waimea Senior Center.  Agenda posted on HCRC website about 5 days before meeting: http://www.hcrc.info/community-planning/south-kohala-cdp

 THANKSGIVING IMU & HOLY BAKERY PIE SALE BENEFITTING WAIMEA MIDDLE’S 8^TH GRADE EAST COAST TRIPPERS: A delicious family tradition now in its 4^th year.  Drop off foods for imu between 3- 5 p.m., Wed., Nov. 24, 2010.  Return to pickup between 8-9 a.m., Thurs., Nov. 25.  $20 per 13×26” pan.  Items should be thawed, seasoned and double-wrapped in foil or traditional ti-leaves and wire.  Pie sale: $10 for 8” baked pumpkin, custard & apple; $15 for 9” frozen apple, peach, coconut & pear. Must be pre-ordered by purchasing tickets from student Trippers or their family members, or by emailing: Eunice_Lazarus@notes.k12.hi.us. Info: Patti Cook (937-2833).  

 ANNUAL HONOKA’A COMMUNITY THANKSGIVING DINNER:  5-7:30 p.m., Wed., Nov. 24, 2010 at Honoka’a High School Cafeteria.  Everyone invited.  Made possible through the generous donations of many of our community partners including Hamakua Energy Partners, Queen Liliuokalani Children’s Center, school classes and clubs and others in the community.  Info or to contribute: 775-8800 Ext 264 or email: Angela_Brandt@notes.k12.hi.us.  Meals will be delivered to shut-ins in Honoka’a, Kukuihaele, Haina, Pa’auhau, Kalopa and Pa`auilo.  If you know of any shut-in who would like a meal delivered, please call Jonathan Ah Yet, Denn Aleta, Manilyn Martinez or Angella Brandt at 775-8800 ext. 264. 

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!   Thurs., Nov. 25, 2010.

 WAIMEA OUTDOOR CIRCLE’S ANNUAL HOLIDAY WREATH GATHERING:  9 a.m. – 1 p.m., Fri., Nov. 26, 2010.  Join WOC members for a trip to the forest (with permit in hand) to gather greenery for wreathmaking on Sun., Nov. 28, 2010.  Everyone invited.  Info: 885-4453.

 IMPORTANT — WAIMEA TOWN CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING TO KICK OF 2010 LOKAHI GIVING PROJECT:  5:30-7:30 p.m., Fri., Nov. 26, 2010 (the day after Thanskgiving).  On the grassy lot makai of KTA on Mamalahoa HWY between Radio Shack and Waimea Community education.  A lovely gathering to reminisce with family and friends of the old days in Waimea as we light a huge tree brought down from the mountain by Parker Ranch, accept donations of new items and foods for Lokahi giving, sing holiday carols, enjoy the blessing of stories by the kupuna of old Waimea.  Free and everyone invited!  Info to get involved in the Lokahi project: Nancy Alvord (896-2239).  Donations also will be accepted in American Savings in Waimea Center the following week and on Sat., Dec. 4 from 10 to 4 p.m.

 WAIMEA OUTDOOR CIRCLE’S ANNUAL HOLIDAY WREATH MAKING:  Noon-3 p.m., Sun., Nov. 28, 2010 in Ulu La’au Waimea Nature Park.  Fee $30 for 14” wreath; $40 for 18” wreath.  All materials included in this donation.  Greenery gathered with permit in an environmentally responsible manner.  Everyone invited.  Info: 885-4453.

 BLAZIN’ STEAKS FASHION SHOW CHRISTMAS BENEFIT:  6 p.m., Sat., Nov. 27, 2010.  Waikoloa Kings Shops restaurant.  Proceeds to support the 501c3 Hawaii Children’s Complementary Therapy and Research Clinic Mana Ola O Ka Lani which cares for termincally or chronically ill children, and Waimea Lions Club’s Angels on Wheels.  Includes fashions by Hawaiian Isle Surf Co, Sleek To Chic Salon and Day Spa with Guest Host Pua Yamashita.  Plus arts & crafts vendors from 5-9 p.m. Dinner tickets $10 or $14 ($5 cover if no dinner).  Info: 959-1750. 

 IMPORTANT – 50^TH ANNUAL WAIMEA CHRISTMAS TWILIGHT PARADE & ALL-DAY LOKAHI GIVING CELEBRATION:  Sat. Dec. 4, 2010.  Themed: “Back To the 50s – Remember When??” – this year’s Twilight Santa Parade (6-7:15 p.m.) and all-day festival will be the biggest ever – focusing on treasured memories from the past and sharing the lifestyle and values of the families of Waimea in earlier days – most importantly, how these individuals embraced and practiced aloha, respect, hard work, gratitude and generosity.  Parade goes from historic Church Row Park to Waimea Park including floats and Waimea’s famous lighted truck brigade!  Plus all-day Lokahi In-Gathering of donated gifts to help Hawai’i Island families during the holiday season.  Includes full day of free entertainment at Waimea Center and activities, crafts and food booths at venues throughout town.  Throughout the day everyone urged not to park or pitch tents on landscaped areas at the hospital or shopping centers to prevent damage to plantings and irrigation.  Also,  please keep a close eye on keiki during the parade and respect the aina — pick up all trash!  Info: Lani Olsen-Chong (936-0670).  

 Waimea Farmers Markets, Craft Fairs & Special Events on Parade Day in Waimea:  

 · WAIMEA HAWAIIAN HOMESTEAD FARMERS MARKET:  7 a.m. – Noon, Saturdays.  Features fresh produce including organic selections, Waipi’o poi, baked goods, goat cheeses, herbal products, breakfast and lunch, plants, cut flowers and starts, lomilomi and more including keiki clothing.  Info:  Roen Hufford at honopua@msn.com, or (937-2729) or Cynthia Spencer (333-2165).

• · WAIMEA TOWN MARKET AT PARKER SCHOOL:  8 a.m. – 1 p.m., Saturdays.  Features fresh produce, baked breads, spa gifts, arts, crafts and fresh hot coffee, breakfast and lunch items.  Watch for special activities this day!  Info: Betsy Sanderson (938-2897). 
• · WAIMEA CENTER’S ‘UPCOUNTRY CHRISTMAS FAIR’:  10 a.m. – 4 p.m.  A festive blending of great live entertainment, over 40 Big Island artists and craft vendors in a giant Sidewalk Sale, plus Lokahi’s gift and food in-gathering in the Center Court throughout the day.   Also, Waimea Center’s annual Big Island Bounty Wreath Contest.  Info for becoming a vendor or to enter the wreath contest, call Alice Moon (933-9772).
• · PARKER RANCH CENTER:  More than 20 handmade-in-Hawai’i arts and crafts vendors are usually scattered throughout the Center on parade day as well as several other weekends throughout the holiday season.  Info and to become a vendor, call Frank Zablan (885-7178).  
• · WAIMEA CHRISTMAS ‘CRAFTY HANDS & GIFTS TOO!’ CRAFT FAIR:  10 a.m. – 4 p.m.  Thelma Parker Memorial Gym.  Waimea’s biggest indoor craft show featuring exclusively local artisans.  Must be locally produced/grown products.  Food also available.  Door prizes throughout the day.  Also, this is a Lokahi food gathering location; everyone encouraged to donate non-perishable items.  Info: Benita Salazar (960-9944). 
• · VENDORS ON PARADE NIGHT:  Vendors must secure permits and parade committee approval for booths along the parade route. 
• CHRISTMAS STAR PARTY:  7-10 p.m. after the parade at Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope’s Waimea headquarters.  Astronomers will set up telescopes on the front lawn and will be looking for celestial treats.  Inside, they will have a keiki table, “Ask and Astronomer” booth and a  showing of Hawaiian Starlight.  The remote observing room will be open to the public for a sneak peak of what it’s like to observe on the summit of Mauna Kea.  As always, snacks, coffee and hot chocolate will be offered.  Rain or shine, come and join the fun!  It will much more fun that sitting in traffic!

 22^nd ANNUAL CHRISTMAS AT KONA VILLAGE:  5:30-8 p.m., Sat., Dec. 4, 2010.  American Culinary Federation (ACF) Kona-Kohala Chefs Assn.’s extravaganza.  Over 20 top Hawai‘i chefs will use primarily locally sourced ingredients to prepare tantalizing cuisine to be accompanied by handcrafted ales, wines and 100% Kona coffee. Under the stars with island music and a live auction.  Tickets $75.  Proceeds benefit scholarship assistance to student culinarians at Hawai’i Community College-West Hawaii, Big Island high schools and to qualifying members for continuing education.  Ticket sales begin October 15.  Charge by phoning 329-2522 or purchase at Kailua Candy Company, Clark Realty/Kona, Kona Wine Market, Café Pesto-Kawaihae, Café Pesto-Hilo and Kona Village Resort.

 WCT PRESENTS ‘DICKENS OF A HOLIDAY OR HOW WE GOT SCROOGED’: Dec. 10-12, 2010.  Also, Waimea Community Theatre looking for sponsors and volunteers to help as ushers, with props, costumes, stage crew, lights, sound, set construction, publicity, et cetera!  Info: 885-5818. 

 HOEA NATIVE HAWAIIAN FINE ARTS SCHOOL:  Winter session Dec. 13-23, 2010.  HOEA (Hawaiian ‘Ohana for Education in the Arts), located in Parker Ranch Center (former museum area), is a project of the Keomailani Hanapi Foundation, and funded by the Administration for Native Americans (ANA) and Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA).  Classes in feather work, wood carving, printmaking and jewelry.  Recruiting students for 2011 classes.  Preference given to Native Hawaiians; financial assistance available.  Note:  HOEA’s PIKO Gallery is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays – everyone invited to view stunning work by local artists. Info:  www.KHF-HOEA.org or call Fran Sanford or Jennifer Bryan (885-6541).

 WAIMEA COMMUNITY THEATRE PRESENTS ‘A DICKENS OF A HOLIDAY – OR HOW WE GOT SCROOGED!’:  Dec. 17-19, 2010.  A gentle (and hysterical) retelling of the Dickens Classic.  More details to come.  Info: 885-5818 or go to www.waimeacommunitytheatre.org/

 WAIMEA COMMUNITY CHORUS’ 17^th ANNUAL HOLIDAY CONCERT ‘SILVER SCREEN CHRISTMAS’:  Dec. 18-19, 2010.  Saturday evening 7:30 pm and Sunday afternoon 3:00 pm at KAHILU THEATRE.  Will feature well-known melodies like “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas”, “Star of Bethlehem,” “We Need a Little Christmas,” ” Who Could Imagine a King” and many others. Tickets $15/13/10,  Available December 1 from Waimea General Store and Without Boundaries.  $2 discount on advance sale tickets.  Info: Director Barbara Kopra (885-8884) or coordinator Miguel Bray (938-3062) or go to www.waimeacommunitytheatre.org/

2^ND WAIMEA OCEAN FILM FESTIVAL:  Jan. 5-9, 2011.  In Waimea and at the Fairmont Orchid and Mauna Kea Resorts, then moves to the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai Jan. 13-15, 2011.  Will feature screenings of 30+ documentary films plus presentations by experts including Flip Nicklin, National Geographic’s top photographer of whales and one of the world’s leading experts on whale behavior.  Also includes breakfast talks each morning to give participants an opportunity to engage in discussions with filmmakers and presenters.  Festival passes go on sale Oct. 25 or call 885-3590 or visit waimeaoceanfilm.org.  Info: Tania Howard (960-9744). 

 KAHILU THEATRE’S 9TH ANNUAL ‘UKULELE & SLACK KEY GUITAR INSTITUTE:  Feb. 17-20, 2011 – President’s Day weekend.  More info to come, or call 885-6868, or go to www.kahilutheatre.org. 

 ANNUAL WAIMEA CHERRY BLOSSOM HERITAGE FESTIVAL:  Sat., Feb. 5, 2011.  More info to come. 

 VALENTINE’ DAY ‘Q’UISINE OF HEARTS’ BRUNCH TO BENEFIT NUTRITIONAL EDUCATION FOR KEIKI:  11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Sun., Feb. 13, 2010.  Hilton Waikoloa Village.  Sponsored by the American Culinary Federation Kona-Kohala Chefs Association.  Enjoy a tantalizing bruschetta buffet prepared by culinary students plus omelet and eggs benedict stations.  Also, guests will enjoy bite-sized pastry specialties by local pastry chefs, bakers, chocolatiers and ice cream makers.  Also on tap will be 100% Kona coffee, handcrafted ales, champagne and wine.  Also includes favorite love songs and a silent auction.  Tickets $45/adults and $20/children age 5-10,  May be picked up at Kailua Candy Company, Kona Wine Market or Tropical Dreams Ice Cream in Waimea, or by calling 329-2522 to charge by phone.  Info: Jean Hull (326-2350).

 WAIMEA COMMUNITY THEATRE PRESENTS ‘BILOXI BLUES’:  Feb. 25-March 6, 2011.  An autobiographical comedy by Neil Simon.  More details to come.  Info: 885-5818 or go to www.waimeacommunitytheatre.org/

 SAVE THE DATE:  AN EASTER ‘DUET WITH THE QUEEN’ – ANNUAL NAKE’U FASHION SHOW PAYING TRIBUTE TO QUEEN LILI’UOKALANI TO BENEFIT WAIMEA HALAU:  Sat., April 23, 2011.  The Waikoloa Marriott.  Benefitting Michael Pili Pang’s Hula Halau Ka No’eau.  More details to come.  Info: Wendi Roehrig (wendiroehrig@hotmail.com).

 WAIMEA COMMUNITY THEATRE PRESENTS ‘KING LEAR’:  May 13-22, 2011.  A Shakespeare classic with a twist.  More details to come.  Info: 885-5818 or go to www.waimeacommunitytheatre.org/

 WAIMEA COMMUNITY CHORUS PRESENTS ‘THE SIXTIES ON BROADWAY’ SPRING CONCERT:  June 10-12, 2011.  More details to come.  Info:  885-5818 or go to www.waimeacommunitytheatre.org/

 WAIMEA COMMUNITY THEATRE PRESENTS ‘OLIVER!’:  July 22-Aug. 7, 2011.  More details to come.  Info: 885-5818 or go to www.waimeacommunitytheatre.org/

 ONGOING ACTIVITIES:

 THELMA PARKER LIBRARY SCHEDULE:  Open:  9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays and 12:30-7:30 p.m., Wednesdays.  Closed Mondays. 

 HOEA’S PIKO GALLERY IN WAIMEA’S PARKER RANCH CENTER:  10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.  Free and all invited to view the creations of students of the Hawaiian ‘Ohana for Education In The Arts (HOEA) and masters.  

 WAIKOLOA BOOKMOBILE HOURS:  9 a.m.- 6p.m. daily.  Located next to the village pool and tennis courts.  Volunteers, hardcover books and monetary donations needed.  Contributions may be sent to Friends of the Library – Waikoloa Region, P.O. Box 383283, Waikoloa HI 96738.  Info and to volunteer, email libraryvolunteer@hawaiiantel.net or call Stephanie Stearns (883-2424), or go to www.library.waikoloacommunity.org. 

GREENWASTE DISPOSAL:  Organa Grow – formerly known as the Hawaiian Fresh Egg Farm on Kawaihae Road – is accepting greenwaste to recycle into mulch and/or organic compost.  There is a small charge but it assures more environmentally desirable disposal of greenwaste.  David M. Davenport (882-7931).

 E-WASTE DISPOSAL:  Televisions, computer monitors and peripherals, cells and telephones, DVDs, VCRs, inkjet, laser and toner cartridges, microwave ovens, fax machines and copiers, digital cameras, printers and laptops – do not dump at the transfer station!  MUST CALL FIRST!  Drop off at Bay Side Computer Shop (108 Kalakaua Street, Hilo – tel: 934-7748), or CompuCycle Kona (73-5580 Maiau St. bay H) in the Kaloko Business Center below Costco parking lot – tel: 326-9695 or 987-4818.  Free to residents; small per pound charge for businesses.  Please call for current rates.  Info:  Recycle Hawai’i: 961-2676.

 WAIMEA SENIOR CLUB MONTHLY MEETINGS.  2^ND Tuesday of each month.  9 a.m. at Waimea Senior Center.  All persons 55+ invited to join.  Daily activities include: Mondays: Hawaiian quilting, Tuesdays: Meetings & crafts, Wednesdays:Line Dancing, Thursdays: Mah Jong, Fridays: Ground Golf, Ukulele lessons & Hula Lessons.  Info:  Pat Lewi, President (885-4307). 

 FREE AFTER-SCHOOL HOMEWORK HELP+ FOR WAIMEA MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS:  Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays immediately after school until 3:10 p.m..  Offering a choice of homework assistance or ALEKS online math tutorial, with healthy snacks and bus transportation for those who normally qualify for bus service.  To register, call Bernie Marsh (887-6090 Ext. 241) or email: Bernie_Marsh@notes.k12.hi.us. 

 KOHALA MOUNTAIN ROAD PAVEMENT REPAIR WORK UNDERWAY:  From the Waiaka junction to the 6.44 mile marker – 3.9 miles.  State DOT has bid the project to include reconstruction of weakened pavement and shoulders, removing, replacing and resetting of guardrails and replacing guardrail end treatments, installing gabion walls and replacing traffic signs, markers and pavement markings.  Will provide more info as it becomes available. 

 NORTH HAWAI’I THRIFT SHOPS (Great Bargains, Help Needed, Donations Welcome):

• WAIMEA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL THRIFT SHOP:  Saturdays, 8 a.m. to noon; Wednesdays, 1-3 p.m.  All proceeds benefit the K-5 keiki at Waimea El.  Donations welcome, too – preferably during shop hours!  Volunteers welcome, too. 
• MAMA’S HOUSE THRIFT SHOP IN WAIMEA:  Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sat., 8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.  Storefront on Mamalahoa Highway near the former Salvation Army location across from Kamuela Liquor Store.  Featuring and accepting donations of clean, gently used household items, clothing and furniture.  Benefits Friends of Oxford House, clean & sober recovery housing, Hawaii Montessori Schools and other community service projects through the sales of donated items. All donations are tax deductible.  Also includes Bean & Sober Hawaii, the twelve-step book store and boutique formerly located next to Huli Sue’s.  Info: Beth Mehau (345-4476) or email bethmehau@gmail.com.
• ST. JAMES THRIFT SHOP: Mon./Thurs./Sat. 8 a.m.-noon, looking for volunteers to help with sorting, pricing & merchandising donations. Work either behind-the-scene or with shoppers, flexible schedules.  Volunteers will be trained.  The shop offers housewares, books, adult & kids clothing, shoes, linens, small appliances, luggage & sports equipment.  Info: Laurie (885-7647).
• LYDIA’S CLOSET:  Open Saturdays 9 a.m. to noon. Located in the Sunday School building just above the Honoka’a United Methodist Church on Mamane Street across from Blane’s Drive In. Shop for gently used misses and women’s wear and accessories; also men’s wear at very reasonable prices.  Lots of great summer items with new merchandise weekly.  Donations welcome.  Can’t find parking on the street?  You may park in the church lot by entering the driveway between the 76 Station and the church.  Info:  775-0566.

 FITNESS & FUN CLASSES:

• DAILY LATIN & AFRO-PERUVIAN RHYTHMS ZUMBA PARTY:  Mondays & Tuesdays & Wednesdays 5:30-6:30 p.m. at Anna Ranch Hall, and Wednesdays & Fridays, 8:15-9:15 a.m. at Waimea Community Education.  Instructor Lupe Rice.  All invited; suggested donation $5 w/ card; $6 per class.  Drop-ins welcome. Info: Lupe (990-5318) or lupe_rice@hotmail.com.
• HONOKA’A ZUMBA CLASS FRIDAY NIGHTS:  6-7 p.m., Honoka’a P&R Gym Complex.  Led by personal trainer and fitness instructor Sheila Fernandez-Kinzer.  Info: 937-9035 or email fitgal6@yahoo.com. 
• ZUMBA GOLD FITNESS- LE’ALE’A FITNESS CENTER: 8:15-9:15 a.m., Mondays and Wednesdays in the old Hayashi Store building next to Hawaiian Style Café.  Fun while burning calories in an easy to follow Latin dance fitness class for all levels.  Low impact-high energy.  $5 drop-in with instructor Marilyn Fitzgerald (345-6266).
• TURBO KICK CLASSES:  8:20-9:20 a.m., and 6:30-7:30 p.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays.  Waimea Community Center and 5:45-6:45 a.m., Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays at Waikoloa Community Church across from Waikoloa School.  High or low impact kick boxing style exercise class.  Have a lot of sweaty fun, burn calories and work off stress.  For beginners to advanced.  Bring water and hand towel.  Donations accepted; passes available $20 for 5 classes.  Info: Heather Francis (640-9225). 
• AEROBIC AND RESISTANCE STEP CLASS:  A one hour class that includes cardio, weights, and yoga.  All levels. Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8:15 a.m., taught by Jay Williams, PhD exercise physiologist. Call first 885 8080. 
• DISCOVER ‘ZUMBA’:  6:30-7:30 p.m., Thursdays.  Thelma Parker Memorial Gym.  Everyone welcome.  Free but a donation welcome.  Instructor: Bianca C. Brennan (222-6095). 

 FIRE ANTS:  Beware!  These produce painful welts on the skin and are already established in areas from Laupahoehoe to Kalapana as well as several sites in Kona.  DOA’s Cas Vanderwaugh, who is our island’s LFA specialist, advises extreme care when bringing potted plants or organic materials into your garden.  To test for LFA, put a little peanut butter on a stick and put it into the pot, mulch, etc.  Wait two hours then check the stick carefully for signs of ants.  If you do find them, quarantine the item and contact Cas Vanderwaugh (989-9289).  Info: www.hear.org/species/solenopsis_invicta/. 

 COLLEGE CREDIT CLASSES COMING TO HONOKA’A:  Starting Fall 2010, North Hawai’i residents will be able to complete UHH general education requirements – finishing the first two years of a Bachelor’s degree and also be eligible for financial aid as a full time student right in Honoka’a.  Some courses on-site/face-to-face, some online including any course in Hilo at UHH and Hawai’i Community College and any online course from any UH campus statewide.  Info:  Nicole Collier (775-8890) or stop by NHERC (below the hospital in Honoka’a). 

 WEEKLY BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT MEETINGS:  1 p.m., Mondays at Tutu’s House in Waimea.  Join Sindona Cassteel, MFT, bereavement counselor for North Hawaii Hospice for this opportunity for anyone who has lost a loved one to receive group support, understanding and inspiration as a new phase of life begins.  Info: 885-6777 or call North Hawai’i Hospice (885-7547). 

 CHINESE MEDICAL COLLEGE OF HAWAI’I ACUPUNCTURE CLINICS:  New & expanded hours:  Low-Cost Walk-In Clinics: 2-6 p.m., Fridays at the school; no appointment necessary.  Cost $15.  Also, regular clinic hours for full body treatment have expanded – 9 a.m. – 6 p.m., Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, and also 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturdays.  Cost: $30 for adults; $20 for seniors age 60 or over.  Located at 65-1206 Mamalahoa Highway, across from Thelma Parker Memorial Library in Waimea Business Center Building #3.  Info & to secure an appointment: 885-7886 or e-mail clinic@tcmch.edu.

 FREE SUBSTANCE ABUSE ASSESSMENTS:  BISAC is offering free alcohol and other drug use assessments and integrated health services.  To schedule an appointment, call 887-2715 Ext. 522. 

 NORTH HAWAII PLAY & LEARN GROUPS:  For infant to preschool.  Free and no reservations required.  Questions:  Maureen w/ family Support Services (885-0086 Ext. 10). 

• Tuesdays – 10-11:30 a.m.  Kohala Intergenerational Center at Kamehameha Park
• Wednesdays – 10-11:30 a.m. Waikoloa at Puu-Nui Park

 FORECLOSURE MEDIATION SERVICE AVAILABLE TO OWNER-OCCUPIED RESIDENTAL PROPERTY HOMEOWNERS:  Go to www.courts.state.hi.us for downloadable notice and Request forms, or call the 3^rd Circuit Court Chief Court Administrator at 961-7440.  Notice of the availability of this service should be provided by the lender when serving foreclosure notice. 

 HEALTHY PLANT SOLUTIONS ONLINE:  www.plantdoctor.net.  An interactive, searchable website that’s a very helpful new resource.   

 2008 COUNTY OF HAWAI‘I DATA BOOK AVAILABLE ONLINE:  25th edition online only.  A

comprehensive source of statistics on the social, economic, government and business activity for Hawai‘i County at: http://co.hawaii.hi.us/databook_2008/dbooktoc.htm.  Info: Colette Rapozo-Yamamoto (961-8500)

 DO YOU NEED FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE, MORTGAGE RELIEF, CREDIT COUNSELING, HELP FINDING EMPLOYMENT?   Call Hawai’i First Community Resource Center in Waimea – A free federally certified service.  Located upstairs in Waimea Center behind McDonalds above the cowboy statue.  Comprehensive counseling services for employment, credit and finances, home mortgage assistance, etc.  Program also provides free access to computer workstations and internet access, reference library and wide ranging supports.  Open from 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.  Counseling appointments recommended:  885-6600. 

 NEW WAIMEA T.E.E.N. SUPPORT GROUP: 5-6 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday.  Waimea Community Center.  Alateen is for middle and high school teens – a fellowship of young relatives and friends of alcoholics who come together to discuss their difficulties, encourage one another and learn how to cope with problems.  Info: 987-3047. 

 AL ANON MEETINGS IN NORTH HAWAI’I:  A long established source of support for anyone struggling with the effects of a loved ones’ substance abuse.  Groups are confidential and free (except for a small donation to keep the group going).  More info:  www.afghawaii.org.

• North Kohala Family Group: Mondays 7 – 8 p.m.- Kohala Family Center, Hawi
• Waimea Family Group:  Tuesdays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. – Tutu’s House. 
• Puako Family Group: Tuesdays, 7 – 8 p.m.- Holualoa UCC.   
• Waimea Family Group: Thursdays 7 – 8p.m. – First Baptist Church. 
• Waikoloa Family Group:  Fridays 7:30 – 8:30 p.m. and Saturdays 9-10 a.m.  - Waikoloa Community Church.

 HAMAKUA YOUTH CENTER:  2-6 p.m., Mondays – Fridays during the school year.  A safe place for middle and high school students to “drop in” with activities and mentors — at 45-3396 Mamane Street.  On Furlough Fridays, the Center will be open from 8 a.m. – 5  p.m.   Includes computer access, playing pool, ping pong and other games.  Snacks always available.  No charge.  Info or to offer help: Center Director Venica Ftacek (775-0976). 

 ANNA RANCH HERITAGE CENTER:  10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Wednesdays thru Saturdays with tours at 10 and 1.  A new – still in progress — Discovery Trail takes guests on a self-guided walking tour of the lower property with a series of interpretive displays telling the story of ranching in Hawai’i.  Includes a viewing platform with educational displays naming the pu’u and sharing the mo’olelo (traditional stories) of the area, as well as explanation of the traditional ahupua’a system, and the ili of Anna Ranch, and the ancient auwai (irrigation system) still visible at the Ranch.  Also an on-site saddle maker, blacksmith, and wood worker.  A Gift Shop in Anna’s historic kitchen features the work of local artisans and craftsmen, and an eclectic mix of new and vintage.  Info: www.annaranch.org or call 885-4426.

 MONTHLY EA & EIS PUBLICATION DATES:  On the 8th and 23rd of each month, go to this website for notices of all EIS and EA documents and coming deadlines:  http://hawaii.gov/health/environmental/oeqc/index.html.

 SUNDAY MORNING “ISLAND ISSUES” WITH SHERRY BRACKEN:  6:30 a.m. on KKOA 107.7FM, 8 a.m. on LAVA 105.3FM, and online at 8 a.m.: www.lava1053.com.

 ANUENUE QUILTERS OF NORTH HAWAI’I:  9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Thursdays at Anna Ranch Teahouse.  Members do both patchwork and Hawaiian quilting and other needlework and annually contribute quilt(s) they have worked on together to a worthy group or cause.  This year we made two quilts for the “Home of the Brave” organization, which provides quilts to families in Hawai’i who have lost a family member in the war in Iraq.  Info: Nancy Donigan (887-2757). 

 RED HAT SOCIETY OF WAIMEA:  Also known as Pupule Papale O Waimea, meets regularly at 12:30 p.m., on the 2nd Thursday of every month at a different Waimea restaurant.  North Hawai’i women admitting to being over 50 invited for laughs and simple chit-chat.  Info and location: Anne Field-Gomes (885-4560). 

 SEXUAL ASSAULT CRISIS HOTLINE:  935-0677.

 FREE/REDUCED LUNCH & BUS TRANSPORTATION APPLICATIONS STILL ACCEPTED AT PUBLIC SCHOOLS:  With the rocky economy reducing work hours and changing incomes, families are urged to apply at any time during the year to request Free/Reduced Lunch and Free Bus transportation for public school students.  Families are asked to come to the school office and pick up forms.    

 FREE TAX PREP, EMPLOYMENT COUNSELING, FINANCIAL EDUCATION AND MORE:  Waimea’s new Hawai’i First Community Resource Center is a not-for-profit located upstairs in Waimea Center – aka KTA shopping center/behind McDonalds.  Created through Hawai’i First Federal Credit Union employees and leadership to provide financial education, job seeking support and training, resume coaching, help to start a small business, prevent foreclosure or access office computer programs.  It’s free but a membership card required and appointments suggested.  Info: Community Development Coordinator Alycia Juvik (885-6600). 

 COMMUNITY VOLUNTEERS & KOKUA NEEDED: 

• Waimea Food Pantries:  New Hope Waimea – Johanna Reeve (885-5510) and Annunciation Catholic Church – Ann Lum (885-0879). 
• Mala’ai: The Culinary Garden of Waimea Middle School:  Amanda Rieux (640-3637) or Alethea Lai (989-7861).  They welcome Mentors, Donors, Gardeners, Grant Writers, Instructors for Work & Learn Workshops.
• Friends of Thelma Parker Memorial Library:  Carol Buck (885-9718)  
• Ulu La’au – Waimea Nature Park:  Carol Hendricks (885-4453)
• Tutu’s House:  A variety of volunteer opportunities exist.  Lorraine Urbic (885-6777)
• Pelekane Watershed Restoration:  Barrie Moss (887-6411) or email pelekaneadmin@kohalawatershed.org.
• Newborn Baby Baskets Assembly:  Angela Thomas (990-6754)
• North Hawai’i Hospice:  Become trained as a caregiver or assist with other special projects including their annual Christmas “Light Up A Life” community gatherings. Katherine Werner Ciano (885-7547)
• Waimea Trails & Greenways:  Learn about group and get involved by attending a weekly meeting – 5-6 p.m. every Monday.  Clem Lam email: c.lam4@hawaiiantel.net  or call 885-4431. 
• Pu’ukohola Heiau:  Volunteers needed for re-vegetation, maintenance, admin, visitor center operations, cultural demonstrations and education programs.  Scheduling flexible.  Chief Ranger Benjamin Saldua (882-7218) or email ben_saldua@nps.gov.  
• West Hawai’i Mediation Center:  Become trained as a mediator and/or facilitator or assist with fundraising or special projects (885-5525). 
• The Kohala Center:  Assist with one of their educational programs, workshops, special projects.  Cindi Punihaole (895-1010) or email cpunihaole@kohalacenter.org.  Also, the Pelekane Watershed Restoration project:  Barrie Moss ( 887-6411). 
• Sharing The Wealth of Our Back Yards:  Have overflowing orange, tangerine, avocado, etc. trees, or runaway zucchini?  Urban Farming volunteers in Waimea and Waikoloa will pick or pick up fruits or vegetables from your garden that you wish to share.  These will be delivered to the Food Bank.  Call Tina Wirth at 887-1087 or email Sue Kilbride at jsjsdtc@aol.com.
• Hawai’i Island Humane Society – Waimea Shelter:  8 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., Mondays-Saturdays.  Susy Chillingworth (885-4558). 
• Habitat For Humanity – Clean out your garage or warehouse — use/reuse furniture, building materials, working appliances, flooring, doors, windows, cabinets, sinks, lighting, home furnishings, electrical hardware, plumbing supplies and fixtures, fans, etc. and your donation to “ReStore” – a retail outlet at 73-5576 Kauhola Street Space #4 (behind the former Sam Choy Restaurant near Costco) is tax deductible.  Income generated by ReStore is used to finance new homes for low income families in West Hawai’i.  Store is open M-F from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturdays.  Info: 331-8010 or go to www.habitatwesthawaii.org.  
• Kawaihae Transitional Housing Program:  The program helps families with children under the age of 19 who are homeless and unsheltered by providing housing (24-units), case management, education and employment training to assist in obtaining affordable housing and becoming self-sufficient.  Info: Patrick Hurney (882-7609). 
• Other environmental organizations:  Visit a new Hawai’i volunteering website – www.preservehawaii.org.   Includes weekly updates from a different featured group each month and upcoming volunteer events.   
• Angels On WheelsA 10+-year Waimea Lions Club not-for-profit solely to transport medical patients to and from appointments.  Volunteers are not paid and contribute gas and other expenses; donations primarily help with coordination.  Organized by Waimea Lions Club.  Info and to help: Keola Fujihara (936-0901) or email aow.trans@gmail.com.

 DRIVER’S LICENSE HOURS:  Monday-Fridays (except holidays):  8-10 a.m. written test for new license or permit; 8-10:30 a.m. for renewals and duplicates; noon-3 p.m., written test for new license or permit; noon-3:30 p.m., renewals and duplicates; 8 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. road tests by appointment only. . 

 REPORT DONKEY SIGHTINGS ON WAIKOLOA ROAD:  Waikoloa residents are working with the County to keep the “Kona Nightingales” (i.e., donkeys) off Waikoloa Road.  They ask community help with reporting sightings.  They are inspecting fences all the way up from the village up to Mamalahoa Highway (Hwy 190).  If you see a donkey, please call Scott Knowles with the County of Hawai’I (961-8068).  Please report date, time of day, approximate location. Together we can save lives: ours and the donkeys!

 EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES:

 TUTU’S HOUSE:  A community health and wellness resource enter — free and all invited.  Open 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday-Friday.  For classes and more information, go to www.tutushouse.org or call 885-6777. 

 WAIMEA COMMUNITY EDUCATION – Offering a wide array of classes.  Easy online registration or by phone (885-1539) or go online to www.waimeaeducation.com.  Affordable and available right here in town. 

 NORTH HAWAI’I EDUCATION AND RESEARCH CENTER (NHERC – Honoka’a):  Mondays through Thursdays, 7:45 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Fridays.  Grassroots and community organizations not charging a fee may use the facilities for free as long as the space is available and during the above times.  Rooms are available with capacities ranging from 20 to 140 individuals.  The Center’s computer lab is also available for use by the public.  Membership is available on an annual basis for a fee of $45.  UH Hilo and HawCC faculty, staff and students may use the lab free of charge.  Info:  775-8890 or emailing nherc@hawaii.edu.   

 WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS:

 WAIMEA HOMESTEAD FARMERS MARKET:  7 a.m. – noon every Saturday on the lawn fronting Kuhio Hale – Hawaiian Homes Hall.  Don’s miss the First Saturdays celebration with many additional vendors and a special free presentation or program.  Waimea’s best organic leafy greens, fruit and vegetables, Waipi’o Valley poi, freshly baked specialties and preserves, Hamakua, Ka’u and Kona coffee, flowers, plants and vegetable starts, lei and floral arrangements, made-on-the-spot breakfasts, plate lunches and bentos, Hawai’i island goat cheeses, mushrooms, and lavendar spa products.  Everyone invited. Info: Roen Hufford at honopua@msn.com, or call 937-2729 or Cynthia Spencer (333-2165).

 WAIMEA TOWN MARKET AT PARKER SCHOOL:  8 a.m. – 1 p.m., Saturdays.  A relatively new addition to weekly shopping venues featuring locally grown and produced vegetables, fruit, herbs and freshly baked artisan breads, plus art, jewelry, spa products and more.  Everyone invited.  Info:  Paul Johnson, pej1000@aol.com.

 KEKELA FAMILY FARM:  2-5 p.m., Tuesdays and Fridays.  Take first left after Koa Lane off of Mana Road.  Look for large red barn for heirloom quality vegetables.  Everyone invited.

 HONOKA’A FARMERS MARKET:  Begins at 7:30 a.m. every Sat. fronting Honokaa Trading Co.

 LAUPAHOEHOE FARMERS MARKET:  9 a.m. – 1 p.m. every Sunday next to the MinitMart on the highway.  Still room for more vendors.  Contact Beth Fulton (443-1679) for more information.

 WAIKOLOA VILLAGE FARMERS MARKET:  7:15 a.m. every Sat. in Waikoloa Community Church parking lot across from Waikoloa Elementary School. 

 HAWI FARMERS MARKET:  7:30 a.m. until pau every Saturday.  Under the banyan tree near the post office. 

 THE ARTS: 

 KAHILU THEATRE:  Info/reservations:  885-6868 or go to http://www.kahilutheatre.org for complete season details. 

 WAIMEA ARTS COUNCIL’S FIREHOUSE GALLERY:  11 a.m. – 3 p.m., Tuesdays thru Saturdays near main intersection in town in the historic firehouse.  Everyone invited.  For more info, go to www.waimeaartscouncil.org.

 WAIMEA COMMUNITY CHORUS & WAIMEA COMMUNITY THEATRE:  Go to www.waimeacommunitytheatre.org.   Chorus rehersals:  7 p.m., Tuesday evenings at St. James Episcopal Church.  June show will feature songs from 1960’s Broadway, directed by Barbara Kopra.   

 HAWAI’I PREPARATORY ACADEMY’S ISAACS ART CENTER MUSEUM & GALLERY:  10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Tuesdays thru Saturdays.  Free and everyone invited.  Info: www.isaacsartcener.hpa.edu.

 NEW MOON FOUNDATION’S TUESDAY MORNING MEDITATION:  9:30 a.m.,  Give yourself the gift of a weekly meditation practice in a safe and compassionate circle of support at the NMF Meditation Hale, 53-3988 Akoni Pule Hwy, Kapa‘au.  Sessions include approximately 30 – 45 minutes of meditation with time for journaling and group sharing.  Also will explore walking meditation and integrating the music of singing bowls.  Open to all levels, with beginners welcome. Attend on a drop-in basis or sign up for a month at a time.  Suggested donation: $7 per session or $20 for series of 4.  Work exchange is available for those unable to donate financially. 

 LOW-COST EAR ACUPUNCTURE COMMUNITY CLINIC:  10 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., Saturdays on a walk-in basis please Traditional Chinese Medical Chinese Medical College of Hawaii.  $15 with discount available for Seniors.  Located at 65-1206 Mamalahoa Highway in Waimea Office Center behind the Chevron.  The ear is used as a microsystem to treat many complaints  (allergies, pain, digestive disturbances, etc.), but especially is used for anxiety, stress and addictions (i.e., smoking).  The ear acupuncture system used actually originated in France and was developed by a French neurologist, Paul Nogier, in the 1st half of the 20th century, and was adopted by the Chinese.  One of many services available provided by student interns under licensed clinical supervision.  Info: Maureen McLaughlin, Lac, Clinical Dean (895-0997).

FIRST SATURDAY ‘UNIVERSE TONIGHT’ PROGRAM CONTINUES:  6 p.m. monthly at the Onizuka Center for International Astronomy at the 9,300 foot level of Mauna Kea.  Begins with a talk at the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station off Saddle Road, then portable telescopes are set up.  Seating first-come.  Each month a speaker from a different Mauna Kea observatory shares recent observations and discoveries.  Info: 961-2180 or go to www.ifa.hawaii.edu/info/vis.   It’s wise to check on weather conditions ahead of time and bring appropriate warm clothing, drinking water and snacks. 

 FREE HAWAI’I COUNTY ‘CITY WATCH’ PILOT PROJECT LAUNCHES MASS EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION SYSTEM:  “City Watch” is an electronic notification system that can notify residents about evacuations or other emergency measures – including appropriate responses — via phone or email.  It’s free to all Hawai’i County residents.  Residents need to register by mailing info: County of Hawai`i Civil Defense Agency, 920 Ululani Street, Hilo, HI 96720, or http://www.ciywatchonline.com/CSBSignUp/HawaiiSignUp.asp. To register, please give your name, street address (no P.O. boxes, please), city, zip code, home phone, cell phone, cell phone carrier and email address. If your phone number is listed in the phone book white pages, you will be automatically registered.  However, if your listed phone number is on a “do not call list,” you will need to register as well cell phone users and all wishing to be contacted by email. 

 WEST HAWAII DANCE ACADEMY:  A wide array of classes in creative movement (ages 3-7), pre-ballet, primary and classical ballet, jazz, hip hop/funk, African dance, pilates, yoga and more.  Located in Uilani Plaza-Waimea.  Info: 885-8876 or go to www.whdt.org.

 ULU LA’AU/WAIMEA NATURE PARK:  Open from 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily – behind the Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope headquarters building.  Plenty of parking inside the Nature Park (please do not park at CFHT).  For more information and a map, go to www.outdoorcircle.org/branches/waimea/ and click on Ulu La’au. New to the park:  WIFI coverage!  A project of Waimea Outdoor Circle.

 ‘FADED GLORY’ PROGRAM RETIRES TIRED FLAGS:  Because flags deserve an honorable retirement, the Big Island Retired Military Association (BIRMA) offers a free “Faded Glory” program that collects old flags and gives them an honorable retirement.  Big Island Toyota has joined with BIRMA to provide drop off points in Hilo (811 Kanoelehua Ave.) and Kailua-Kona (74-5504 Kaiwi Street) and organizations with a large number of flags needing retirement can call BIRMA (775-9729) for pick up.   No charge.   

COQUI ALERT/ HONOKA’A AREA:  If hear a frog, please report it to 775-9800 or 775-1150.

 COQUI ALERT/WAIMEA:  Report immediately to the county’s coqui control program (Karen Shiroma – 961-8065), or the Big Island Invasive Species Hotline:  961-3299.  Or, call State Dept. of Agriculture – Kyle Onuma (974-4140 ext. 22) or Tim Ohashi (933-6955). 

 COQUI ALERT/NORTH KOHALA:  Call the North Kohala Coqui Hotline: 889-5775.  

 VET CENTERS OF HAWAI’I HOSTS BRIEFINGS & OUTREACH:  9 a.m. – Noon, First & Third Thursdays of every month – Waimea Community Center; 2nd and 4th Thursdays of every month – Waikoloa Village Market throughout June & July 2008.   Representatives from the Hilo and Kona Vet Centers will be available to all Veterans and their families. Info:  (969-3835, 329-0574, or 960-1904)

 HAWAI’I ISLAND KEIKI IN NEED OF A SAFE, LOVING ‘OHANA: West Hawai’i has over 160 children in foster care, and we have 2,100 children statewide who need a caring home. You can make a difference in a child’s life and give hope for the future to a child by becoming a Foster/Resource family.  Call Hui Ho’omalu’s intake number Toll Free: (888) 879-8970, or call their West Hawai’i community liaison, Linda Case (896-3829) to discuss requirements. 

 WAIMEA SHELTER – HAWAII ISLAND HUMANE SOCIETY:  8 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., Mondays-Saturdays.  Low Income Spay/Neuter Program:  Applicants must demonstrate financial need, such as an EBT card or by meeting financial criteria.  Proof of income required.  Qualified individuals are able to purchase discounted certificates: $25/male cat; $35/female cat.  $45/male dog; $50/female dog.  Certificates also available w/o income criteria for slightly more.  Info:  885-4558. 

 HAWAI’I’S BOOSTER SEAT LAW:  Booster seats or child safety seats for children between 4-7 are required by law.  There is a $100-$500 fine for non-compliance.  Families can apply for a State tax credit of $25 to offset the cost of purchasing required equipment.  Info: Keiki Injury Prevention Coalition at 1-(808) 537-9200 or visit their website at http://www.kipchawaii.org/.

 HAKALAU FOREST NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE/MAULAU TRACT:  Open Saturdays, Sundays and holidays by reservation for bird watching, hiking, photography only.  Call 933-6915. 

 SUSPECTED MARINE MAMMAL AND PROTECTED SPECIES VIOLATIONS:  Call 1-800-853-1964 for NOAA’s Office of Law Enforcement.

 WAIKOLOA ART CENTER WEEKLY ART GATHERING:  9 a.m. – Noon, Fridays and 1-5 p.m., Sundays for adults to come together in an unstructured atmosphere with space to work and share.  All levels of experience in any medium welcome.  Waikoloa Village Community Room (next to the Waikoloa Village Administration offices).  Bring your own supplies and a cloth or plastic drape to cover your table.  Sink and restroom facilities available.  Info: Ruth Bernstone (883-3809) or Jacquie Koscil (883-9584).

 STATE IDENTITY THEFT WEBSITE: http://www.idtheft.hawaii.gov. Provides tips on prevention and what to do if your identity is s tolen.  Or call 808-587-3222. 

HAWAI’I COUNTY SIGN CODE ONLINE:  Go to http://www.hawaii-county.com/ and look for “signcode.”  Also available for $4 from Hawaii County Clerk.  Or, call Waimea Outdoor Circle for abbreviated summary in layman’s language:  885-5210. 

HAWAI’I COUNTY COUNCIL SOUTH KOHALA OFFICE TELECONFERENCE SERVICES:  Holomua Center Suite C-5 – across Kamamalu St. from Waimea Police Station – next to Waimea Feed and Top Stitch.   Community welcome to participate in County hearings, meetings by remote teleconferencing equipment.  No charge.  Tel: 887-2043/Fax: 887-2072.  

POISON HOTLINE – 1-800-222-1222.

‘ICE’ HOTLINES & INFORMATIONAL WEB SITE:  To report “Ice” Substance Abuse concerns:  West Hawaii – 329-0-ICE;  East Hawaii – 934-VICE.  Callers can remain anonymous or give name, telephone to secure case number for future follow up.     
 

EMILY GAIL TALKS GOLF:  6-7 p.m., every Saturday on ESPN Radio AM850 AM790.  Info: Emily Gail (896-6780). 

WAIKOLOA SENIORS MONTHLY MEETING:  9 a.m. on the third Monday of each month.  Community Room adjacent to the Waikoloa Village Association offices on Melia Street.  Begins with a potluck breakfast and a speaker.  Info: 883-2424.   

QUILTERS MEET WEDNESDAYS AT NHERC:  8:30 a.m. – Noon. Every Wednesday.  Led by Dorothy Badua, Jodean Dela Cruz and Mary Hinck.  Everyone welcome.  Bring your own sewing machine and extension cords or, if you hand quilt, your needles, scissors and thread.  Info: 775-0726. 

DISCOVER AUNTIE CONNIE’S READING CORNER: The Friends of Thelma Parker Memorial Library have renamed the Book Nook after long time Waimea Elementary School volunteer Auntie Connie Erger.  The expanded Book Nook is a great source of inexpensive books ($1 for most hardbacks; 50 cents for paper backs and a few specials between $1-5.  Funds benefit the Friends community efforts to support the library and literacy. 

# # # # #

• Laupahoehoe:  6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesdays
• Honoka’a:  6:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. Wednesdays
• Hawi:  6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursdays.
• Honomu:  8 a.m.-6 pm Thursdays

• Fri., Apr. 23 – 8 p.m.: The Makaha Sons
• Sat., June 5 – 8 p.m.: The Brothers Cazimero

COQUI ALERT/ HONOKA’A AREA:  If hear a frog, please report it to 775-9800 or 775-1150.

HAWAI’I COUNTY SIGN CODE ONLINE:  Go to http://www.hawaii-county.com/ and look for “signcode.”  Also available for $4 from Hawaii County Clerk.  Or, call Waimea Outdoor Circle for abbreviated summary in layman’s language:  885-5210. 

HAWAI’I COUNTY COUNCIL SOUTH KOHALA OFFICE TELECONFERENCE SERVICES:  Holomua Center Suite C-5 – across Kamamalu St. from Waimea Police Station – next to Waimea Feed and Top Stitch.   Community welcome to participate in County hearings, meetings by remote teleconferencing equipment.  No charge.  Tel: 887-2043/Fax: 887-2072.  

POISON HOTLINE – 1-800-222-1222.

‘ICE’ HOTLINES & INFORMATIONAL WEB SITE:  To report “Ice” Substance Abuse concerns:  West Hawaii – 329-0-ICE;  East Hawaii – 934-VICE.  Callers can remain anonymous or give name, telephone to secure case number for future follow up.    
  

This calendar is prepared by Patti Cook on behalf of Waimea Community Association (WCA).  To include community events in this calendar, e-mail cookshi@aol.com.  Deadline for information: Saturday please!

IMPORTANT COMMUNITY EVENTS:

RECYCLE ATHLETIC SHOES AT BIG ISLAND FIRE STATIONS:  Now through April 26, 2009, we are all asked to bring worn-out athletic shoes to our local fire station for the Nike Reuse A Shoe Program to be recycled into athletic equipment including tracks and playgrounds.  Co-sponsored by the County of Hawai’i Department of Environmental Management, Hawai’i County Fire Department and Matson Navigation.  Info: 961-8083 or 981-8394.  Every part of worn-out shoes can live on in something new! 

TAKE IT OFF HAWAI’I 2009:  8-9 a.m. and 3-4 p.m., Thurs. and Fri., April 2-3, 2009.  Waimea’s Kaiser Clinic.  Final opportunity to register a team of family members, friends, co-workers to join this year’s community effort to reduce chronic disease and improve quality of life.  Teams comprised of 5 – 10 members take the challenge to make positive lifestyle change.  Competition starts April 6, ends May 29 with final weigh-ins June 1 – 13. Teams with the greatest number of “lifestyle points” will qualify for great prizes.  No charge to participate!  “Lifestyle points” given for suggestions and undertaking weight loss, healthy activities and tobacco cessation.  For more information, call Five Mountains Hawai’i (887-1284) or go to www.fivemountains.org and click on Take It Off Hawai’i.

STILL TIME TO COMMENT ON UNDERWATER FIBRE OPTIC CABLE FROM TAHITI TO SPENCER BEACH PARK:  5 p.m., Thurs., April 2, 2009.  Spencer Beach Park.  Opportunity to review/comment on Honolulu Cable System proposed by French Polynesia company, or mail comments on Draft Environmental Assessment to the Office of Conservation and Coastal Lands, P.O. Box 621, Honolulu, HI  96809.  The project, which will interconnect in Hawaii with the trans-Pacific system extending from the West Cost to Japan, China and other Pacific Rim countries, will require minimal construction in the Spencer Beach area because it will tie into an existing subsea cable landing site.  

IMPORTANT – WAIMEA COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION TOWN MEETING:  5:15 p.m., Thurs., April 2, 2009.  Waimea School Cafeteria (note location change for special meeting format with four of Mayor Billy Kenoi’s newly appointed Department heads — Public Works Director Warren Lee, Planning Director Bobby Jean Leithead Todd, Parks & Rec Director Robert Fitzgerald and Environmental Managment Director Lono Tyson.  After introductions, attendees will break into four smaller groups for a round robin talk-story format with each of the directors.  Everyone invited. There is no charge to attend or participate though a $12 WCA membership urged.  Also, all attendees are urged to bring either a cash or food donation for our Waimea food pantries.  Info: Bill Sanborn (895-1122).  The 5:15 p.m., Thurs., May 7 WCA Town Meeting will return to the usual Parker School Theatre location and feature introduction and talk-story with Parker Ranch’s new trustees discussing their newly developed strategic plan.   

RARE VISIT TO KUKUIOHIWAI – THE SPRINGER HOMESTEAD — TO BENEFIT KONA HISTORICAL SOCIETY:  9 a.m. – 2 p.m., Sat., April 4, 2009.   A unique visit to Hannah Kihalani Springer’s 100-year-old, 30-acre mixed pasture and woodland homestead.  Trip continues through the dry-land forest area of Makanaa, which is being rehabilitated in a cooperative effort coordinated by the Hawaii Forest Industry Association on Kamehameha Schools lands.  Also a visit to Kalaemano at the shoreline on the Pu’uwa’aw’a side of Kaupulehu.  Participants must be or become members of Kona Historical Society for insurance reasons.  $60 for current members; $10 for children.  Info/reservations: 323-3222.  Tour must be prepaid and waiver/release form filled out.   

KOHALA CENTER RECRUITING ‘CITIZEN SCIENCE VOLUNTEERS’:  Learn to test the nutrients and chemistry of the water at Kahalu’u Bay and other areas of West Hawai’i.  Training and equipment will be provided to help monitor the health of the ocean.  Info: Cindi Punihaole (895-1010) OR EMAIL CPUNIHAOLE@kohalacenter.org.  A collaborative project sponsored by Bill Healy Foundation, EPA, Kamehameha Investment Corp. and NOAA Preserve American Initiative Grant. 

PROPOSED ‘HAWAII EXPERIMENTAL TROPICAL FOREST RESEARCH AND EDUCATION CENTER’ IN LAUPAHOEHOE PLAN ONLINE FOR REVIEW:  A proposal by the Institute of Pacific Islands Forestry/U.S. DOA Forest Service to develop a venue for university students to learn more about the wet forests of windward Hawai’I on a 20-acre parcel four miles south of LOaupahoehoe off of Manowaiopae Homestead Road can be reviewed online at the Office of Environmental Quality Control’s website, www.hawaii.gov/health/environmental/oeqc/index.html.  Comments may be sent to the State Department of Land and Natural Resources, Land Dvision, Box 621, Honolulu, HI  96809. 

NHERC-HONOKA’A HOLDS RUMMAGE SALE FOR SCHOLARSHIPS:  9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Fri., April 3, and 7 a.m.- noon, Sat., April 4, 2009.  All welcome.  Info: 775-8890. 

FLOWERING PLANT SALE BENEFITS WAIMEA MIDDLE SCHOOL LANGUAGE ARTS STUDENT ANTHOLOGY PUBLICATION:  2-6 p.m., Fri., April 3, 2009.  Waimea Center central court near the cowboy statue (behind McDonalds/KTA shopping center).  Will include donated orchid and bromeliads and other indoor and outdoor plants at very reasonable prices.  Info:  Patti Cook (937-2833). 

HONOKA’A HIGH & INTERMEDIATE’S SCHOOL COMMUNITY COUNCIL (SCC) TO ELECT FAMILY REPS:  The SCC is recruiting Parent Reps candidates.  Must be primary caregiver(s) (legal, custodial, grandparent, foster parent) of that school’s student(s) for their entire term on the council.  SCC’s include parents, teachers, staff and community members.  Participation helps strengthen the school-community partnership.  Nomination forms have been distributed in the school newsletter and may be picked up at the office.  Deadline to submit is 4 p.m., Thurs., April 9, 2009 at the school office at which time nominations are closed.  An SCC meeting at 5:30 p.m., Thurs., April 23 at the school library will provide voters an opportunity to meet candidates.  Voting will be conducted between April 27 and May 1, 2009.  Ballots will be mailed out and may be distributed with the school’s newsletter.  Ballots also available at the school office.  Ballot deadline:  4p.m., May 1.  Winners will be announced at the May SCC meeting.  Info: Aileen Ishikawa (775-8800).

DOES ANYONE OWE YOU $$?  Go to www.ehawaii.gov to find out.  Click on the “property search” link on the left side of the page.

17th YEAR OF AARP FREE TAX AIDE SERVICE:  9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Mondays and Thursdays, now thru April 13, 2009.  For low to moderate income and elderly clients.  New location:  the State Hunter Education Building, the second building on the left after turning onto Lalamilo Farm Lots Road.  Plenty of parking and handicap accessible.  For appointments, call Marge (987-6340). 

WAIMEA OUTDOOR CIRCLE’S ANNUAL PLANT SALE:  8 a.m. – 2 p.m., Sat., April 4, 2009. Thelma Parker Memorial Gym.  Everyone invited – great bargains and all proceeds support WOC community projects to “keep Waimea clean, green and beautiful.”  Plants specially selected for Waimea locale with emphasis on growing natives.  Will also include popular “Plant Doctor” table with knowledgeable experts to answer questions.   

SIX ARTISTS PRESENT SHOW IN WAIKOLOA:  11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sat., April 4, 2009.  Community Room at 68-1792 Melia Street near the golf course.  Free.  Featuring a variety of media by Vivian Green, Shay Niimi Wahl, Rachelle Moore, Michelle Stefanik, Greg Schultz and Jacqueline Koscil.  Afternoon also will include demonstrations of origami and water color.  Everyone invited. 

DELICIOUS WAIMEA COMMUNITY EDUCATION CLASSES & MORE:  Easy online registration or by phone (885-1539).  A wide-array of subjects, affordable and available right here in town, including:

• Yummy Recipes for Kids:  Noon-2:30 p.m., two Saturdays, April 4 & 11, 2009.  Anna Ranch.  Taught by Donna Maltz, best suited for ages 8-12.  Students learn about cooking, the environment, gardening and health, and will build confidence with using a knife, blender, waffle iron, food processor and other kitchen tools.  Will include a meal.  First class will have an Italian flavor and include making pizza.  There is a charge. 
• Bread and Stone Hearth Baking:  10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sun., April 26, 2009.  Anna Ranch.  Taught by expert baker Kevin Cabrera.  Will introduce basic tools, equipment, ingredients for bread baking including making and maintaining a starter.  Will include making pizza in a stone hearth for lunch.  There is a charge and limited space. 

8^TH ANNUAL KONA CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL EVENING GALA & WORKSHOPS:  Gala from 6-10 p.m., Sat., April 4, 2009.  Sherator Keauhou Bay Resort.  Includes chocolate cook-off, tastings for a People’s Choice awards, entertainment by Cyril Pahinui and Salsa Latinos and a silent auction.  Proceeds go toward the American Culinary Federation Kona-Kohala Chapter’s Chef and Child Program, and the West Hawai’i Community College Culinary School to purchase a convection over.  Tickets $40/advance; $50 at the door – must be at least 21.  Also $125 Aloha Circle VIP passes.  Available at Kona Wine Market, Without Boundaries, Big Island Candy Co. and CD Wizard or by calling 328-2255.  Also a 6-day Chocolate Symposium with seminars on cacao cultivation and processing, medicinal uses, pairing with wines and tours – ranging from free to $135. 

WORKSHOPS PREPARING FOR THIRD ANNUAL TRASH BASH ART & FASHION SHOW:  1-4 p.m., Sunday, April 5 at Kenji’s House in Kapa’au in preparation for the April 18-19, 2009 ‘Trash Bash Art & Fashion Show.”  The show — themed “Reuse, Reduce, and Recycle” will feature entries that will be judged on how much is diverted from the landfill.  Cash prizes will be awarded.  Deadline for show entries is April 13th.  Entry forms available at Kohala Coffee Mill, or by calling 345-6322.  No entry fee and artists of all ages encouraged to participate. A series of workshops will be held from 1-4 p.m., Sundays, March 22 and April 5 at Kenji’s House in Kapa’au.  Free and intended to assist potential participants in techniques for constructing their art and fashion creations.  Led by local artists, teachers, and recyclers.  Attendees encouraged to bring their own supplies.  Sponsored by Organizing Committee, WASTESTREAM, Recycle Hawaii, AM, Recycle Hawaii, and Kona Earth Fest.  Info: Colleen Nevins (345-6322).

OPEN OCEAN AQUACULTURE AND KAWAIHAE HARBOR UPDATES AT KAWAIHAE LOCAL RESOURCE COUNCIL MEETING:  2-4 p.m., Sun., April 5, 2009.  At the Hamakua Macadamia Nut Factory north of Kawaihae.  Yellow signs will show the way.  Representatives from two open ocean aquaculture companies, an independent consultant and an aquaculture specialist will discuss the issues.  Also, updates on Kawaihae Harbor access and funding will be provided. Questions: Sara Peck, UH Sea Grant College Program (329-2861).

PUBLIC SCHOOLS RESUME CLASSES:  Mon., April 6, 2009. 

FREE ‘THINK AND GET SLIM’ WORKSHOP ON HEALTHY LIFESTYLE CHOICES:  5:30 p.m., Mon., April 6, 2009.  Tutu’s House.  Will include a DVD on the teachings of Abraham moderated by Waimea dietitian Vivienne Aronowitz, M.P.H., R.D., who leads the “InShape Hawai’I” program.    The Abraham teachings focus on how intentions shape your life.  All welcome especially participants in the “Take if Off Hawai’i” Program. 

COMMUNITY ORGANIZATION DEVELOPMENT CLASSES:  6-8 p.m., six consecutive Mondays, April 6-May 11, 2009.  Do you serve on a non-profit board or a community group or club?  Could your group use some help?  Classes are designed to help community groups operate more efficiently and smoothly.  Tuition $10 per class.  Sponsored by Hilo Hamakua Community Development Corp.  Scholarships available.  Info and to register, call Donna Mitts (936-2117) or email ohanadonna@yahoo.com.   Classes include:

• April 6 –- The Basics of Non Profit Boards/Community Groups at NHERC.  Presenter – Diane Chadwick - Philanthropic Services Officer, Hawaii Community Foundation, to provide an overview of non-profit boards in Hawaii , mission statements, etc.
• April 13 – Legal Affairs at NHERC.  Presenter – George Zweibel, Attorney, President of the Legal Aid Society, Honolulu.  To discuss board governance, fiduciary duties, board conduct, conflict of interest policies.
• April 20 – Managing with Aloha at Laupahoehoe High School Band Room.  Presenter – Rosa Say, Founder, Say Leadership Coaching and author of book by the same name.  To discuss Bringing Hawaii ’s Universal Values to the Art of Business.
• April 27 – Funding Resources at NHERC.  Presenters – Tim O’Connell, Assistant to the State Director, USDA Rural Development and Beth Dykstra, County of Hawai`i Department of Research and Development. 
• May 4 – Financial Matters at NHERC.  Presenter – Chris J. Clarke, CPA.  To discuss Financial Aspects of Not-for-profit Governance and Board Members Role in Finance. 
• May 11 – Grant Writing & Fundraising at NHERC.  Presenter:  Jeani Navarro, VP ARC of Kona.  To discuss grant writing and fundraising

WAIMEA HAWAIIAN CIVIC CLUB MONTHLY MEETING:  6:30 p.m., Mon., April 6, 2009 (and the first Monday of every month except on holidays).  Imiola Church Meeting Hall.  Info: Sam Moniz, President.

LAUPAHOEHOE SCHOOL-COMMUNITY TO EXPLORE WHAT IT MEANS TO CONVERT TO BEING A CHARTER SCHOOL:  6 p.m., Tues., April 7, 2009.  School band room.  A panel of Hawai’i leaders in the charter school movement will discuss Hawai’i’s charter school law and governance including the experience of the five of 31 current Hawai’i public charter schools which voted to convert.  Many people are not aware that charter schools are “public” schools (not private schools), and receive money to operate from the State of Hawai’i.  However, charter schools are not part of the DOE school system as they are operated by their own local school boards, and make many of their own decisions about curriculum and school operations.  Panelists to include Dr. Maunalei Love with the Charter School Administrative Office (CSAO), Lynn Fallin with Ho’okako’o Corporation, John Thatcher with Connections Charter School and Patti Cook with Waimea Middle Public Conversion Charter School.  All invited to join the community discussion — bring your questions and concerns to help the Laupahoehoe community decide whether to begin converting to a public charter school.  Info: email supportLHES@gmail.com or call Niki at 936-7673.

REP. CINDY EVANS TALK-STORIES:  An opportunity ask questions, catch up mid-session on Sat., April 11, 2009:  

• 6:30-10 a.m. – Waikoloa Community Church Farmers Market.
• 5:30-8 p.m. – Waikoloa Elementary School Library.   

PANIOLO PRESERVATION SOCIETY’S EASTER FASHION SHOW BRUNCH BENEFIT FEATURING DESIGNS BY NAKE’U AWAI AND LOCAL CELEBRITY TALENT:  10 a.m. – 3 p.m., Sat., April 11, 2009.  Daniel Thiebaut’s Restaurant.  Music by Kupuka’a and a pre-Merrie Monarch arts and crafts fair in the garden including lauhala hat weaving master Margaret Lovell from Kaua’i, feather lei and other collectible arts, fresh flower lei and lei po’o, fresh bouquets and more.  Reservations: 885-2200. 

IT TAKES A GARDEN TO GROW A COMMUNITY’ FREE FARM AND GARDEN TOURS AND ‘WORK & LEARN DAYS’   Still time to sign up for the four remaining Saturday’s in a 5-Saturday series to nurture Waimea family interest in food gardening.  Hosted by Mala’ai: The Culinary Garden of Waimea Middle School with help from the West Hawai’i Fund and Richard Smart Fund through Hawai’i Community Foundation.  Limited enrollment.  To register, please email tompsonp001@hawaii.rr.com or call Matilda at 885-9206.  Classes will include:  

·         Sat., April 11 -  8:45 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Work & Learn Day: Compost and Soil - at the garden followed by optional potluck talk-story.      

·         Sat., April 18 -  8:45 a.m. – 1 p.m.  Hamakua Small Farms Tour (small scale animal production).  Meet at garden–no potluck; ends at last site.                                                          

·         Sat., April 25 -  8:45 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.  Work & Learn Day:  Seed Saving and Planting—at the garden followed by optional potluck talk-story.                               

·         Sat., May 16 – 8:45 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.  Work & Learn Day:  Topic To Be Announced—at the garden followed by optional potluck talk-story.                                                                     

HPA HOSTS ‘SPECIAL OLYMPICS’ FUN DAY:  9 a.m. – 1 p.m., Sat, April 11, 2009.  At HPA’s Stanford W. Shutes Track on the upper campus.  Will feature events for every fitness level from the serious athlete to beginners.  Participants can register for 50m Dash, 100m Dash, 200m Dash, Softball Throw, Shot Put Throw, 100m Assisted Walk, Bocce Ball, Standing Long Jump, and Running Long Jump.  Open to pre-registered athletes, their families and supporters.  Athletes who would like to participate can register by contacting Dana Petteys at dpetteys@hpa.edu.

APRIL 13 DEADINE FOR COMMENTS ON PROPOSAL TO REMOVE THE HAWAIIAN HAWK (‘IO) FROM THE ENDANGERED SPECIES LIST:  Proposed rules and draft monitoring plan online at http://www.fws.gov/pacificislands/.  

SENIOR ID CARDS ISSUES:  9-11 a.m., Tues., April 14, 2009.  Lily Yoshimatsu Senior Center in Waimea.  Issued by the Coordinated Services of the Elderly Program/County of Hawai’i Elderly Activities Division.  Info: 961-8777. 

SOUTH KOHALA TRAFFIC SAFETY COMMITTEE MONTHLY MEETING:  4 p.m., Tues., April 14, 2009.  Waimea Civic Center.  (Always the 2nd Tuesday of every month.)  Everyone welcome.  Info:  Chair Mike Price email:  whao@hawaii.rr.com.

APRIL 15 DEADLINE FOR HAWAII SADDLE CLUB $1,000 SCHOLARSHIPS:  For residents of Hawaii County or a student at Honokaa High School.  An essay on agriculture and the future of Hawaii required.  Info: Patricia Andrade Stout (937-3265). 

46th ANNUAL MERRIE MONARCH FESTIVAL:  April 14-18, 2009.  Hilo. 

WAIMEA MIDDLE SCHOOL’S LOCAL ADVISORY PANEL MEETING:  4:30-6:30 p.m., Thurs., April 16, 2009.  All school-community stakeholders invited.  Info:  Jacqui Hoover-LAP Chair (960-7503) or CEEO John Colson (887-6090 Ext. 225). 

WAIKOLOA TALK-STORY EVENINGS CONTINUE:  5:30 p.m., Fri., April 17, 2009.  Waikoloa School Library.  Begins with music and refreshments, then four resident writers will share their
reflections on their craft.  Then, members of Waikoloa’s Community Emergency Response Team and Skateboard Park group will present.  Everyone invited. 

FREE CPR SATURDAY AT HPA:  7:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., Sat,. April 18, 2009.  Castle Gym/Upper Campus.  Sponsored by HPA’s Red Cross Youth Group in conjunction with the American Red Cross West Hawaii Branch.  Training sessions begin on the half hour.  Each session will be limited to 30 people and will take 2-1/2 hours.  Registration recommended. Call Dana Petteys at 881-4082 or e-mail: dpetteys@hpa.edu.  Walk-ins will be accommodated on a space available basis.

KAMUELA HONGWANJI MARKET DAY/GARAGE SALE:  8 a.m. – 1 p.m., Sat., April 18, 2009.  Located in historic Church Row.  Items for sale will include baked goods, vegetables, household items, books, photo cards, etc.  Everyone invited.  Info: Jean Saito (315-8130). 

KOHALA WATERSHED PARTNERSHIP TREE PLANTINGS:  8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., Sat., April 18 and May 16, 2009.  Adults and children welcome to participate.  Tools, gloves and transportation to the work side provided.  The goal of this project is to restore a native forest along the strip of land between Waiakamli and Luahine streams between Kohala Mountain Foard and Pu’u O Umi Natural Area Reserve.  Info: Melora Purell (333-0976) or email coordinator@kohalawatershed.org. 

HIGH TEA TO BENEFIT NORTH HAWAI’I HOSPICE ‘CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF RICHARD SMART IN MUSIC’:  2-5 p.m., Sat., April 18, 2009.  At Parker Ranch’s Pu’uopelu.  Tickets $100.  Info: 885-7547.  Seating limited.  Reservations requested by April 10.  

SMALL WORLD PRESSCHOOL GOLF CHALLENGE 2009:   Sun., April 19, 2009.  Hapuna Prince Resort.  2-Person Best-Ball with established USGA handicaps.  Entry fee: $125 includes luncheon and prizes.  Entry forms and info available by calling the school (885-4388).  Deadline to enter: April 1.  Proceeds benefit the children attending the preschool. 

INSHAPE, HAWAII PRESENTS ‘QUICK & HEALTHY MEALS’:  4-6 p.m., Sun., April 19, 2009.  At 66-1664 Waiaka Street.  Presented by Vivienne Aronowitz, a nutritionist with over 25 years of experience supporting clients in their quest for a healthier lifestyle, and the nutrition consultant to LiveWell and Take It Off Hawaii, who will share healthy recipes and tastings.  There is a charge and space limited.  Deadline to enroll is April 16.  Info:  www.inshapehi.com or call ph 936-9001.

CELEBRATE EARTH DAY BY CARING FOR THE LAND:  9 a.m. – Noon, April 25, 2009.  Sponsored by New Moon Foundation.  Assist with trail maintenance along the Pali Akamoa and Wainaia Gulch Trails.  Help with raking, vine clearing and trimming. Stay for a picnic lunch provided by NMF.  For information or to sign up as a volunteer, call Courtney (889-0615).

WAIKOLOA ART CENTER PRESENTS WATERCOLOR WORKSHOP:  9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Sat., April 25, 2009.  WVA Community Room.  Featuring Artist Evonne Cramer from California.  Will consist of demonstrations and student practice on wet into wet painting, composition and some negative painting.  You will be shown how to quickly start and finish a watercolor.  Students will be practicing with more than one painting of their own. Constructive critique will follow.  There is a fee that must be paid in advance and includes some supplies.  Bring a snack for yourself.  To register, inquire, or receive supply list email waikoloaaloha@yahoo.com or call 937-2309.

KAHILU THEATRE 2009 SEASON CONTINUES:  Info/reservations:  885-6868 for the following or go to http://www.kahilutheatre.org/ for complete season details:

·         Poncho Sanchez Latin Jazz Band:  7 p.m., Sun., April 26

·         The Brothers Cazimero:  8 p.m., Sat., June 6

13^th ANNUAL ‘TROPICAL PAWS’ HUMANE SOCIETY BENEFIT:  6-9 p.m., Fri., May 1, 2009.  Four Seasons Resort Hualalai.  Libations, buffet dinner, entertainment and dancing.  Tickets $100 each include $25 auction credit coupon.  Funds raised support Humane Society’s “Second Chance Fund’ to provide medical care for abused animals, and the Spay/Neuter Community Assistance Program.  Info and tickets or to contribut to the auction (329-1175).

HAWAII COUNTY DEMOCRATIC PARTY CONVENTION:  Sat., May 2, 2009.  Kilauea Military Camp (KMC), Volcanoes National Park.  Info:  John Buckstead (326

HUMANE SOCIETY INVITES PET PICS FOR ANNUAL PIN-UP CALENDAR:  Deadline:  4 p.m., Fri., May 8, 2009.  All submitted entries will be included in the 2010 Pets In Paradise Calendar.  Forms can be downloaded from Hawaii Island Humane Society (HIHS.org) or picked up from any society shelter in Kona, Waimea and Keaau.  Entries must be sent with $15 fee.  No limit to number of entries.  Income generated supports Humane Society programs. 

HAWAI’I ISLAND EARLY CHILDHOOD CONFERENCE:  Fri.-Sat., May 8-9, 2009.  Wakoloa Beach Marriott.  6:30-9 p.m., Friday, and 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m., Saturday including an early childhood products and services expo, speakers and round-table conversations focused on the critical first five years of life.  Open to all including child care providers, teachers, administrators and policy makers.  For information, email Chelsea Ching at cching@goodbeginnings.org. 

‘CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF HOPE’ AT 2009 HONOKA’A RELAY FOR LIFE:  6 p.m., Fri., May 8 – 6 a.m., Sat., May 9, 2009.  Honoka’a High School Field.  Honors cancer survivors and remembers those who have lost the battle, all while raising money to fight the disease.  Teams and sponsors invited to the “Stars Are Out Tonight” celebration that also include live music, line dancing, a silent auction, a luminary ceremony, Keiki Karnival.  The next planning meeting: 6:30 p.m., Thurs., Feb. 19, 2009.  Honokaa’a High School Library.  Info: Angella Brandt, Maria Lisa Ignacio or Danica Tamaye (775-8800 Ext. 264) or email: angela_brandt@notes.k12.hi.us or go to www.relayforlife.org/honokaahshi.  

2^nd ANNUAL WAIMEA CULINARY GARAGE SALE TO BENEFIT MALA’AI: THE CULINARY GARDEN OF WAIMEA MIDDLE SCHOOL:  7 a.m. – Noon, Sat., May 9, 2009.  Waimea Hawaiian Homesteaders Farmers Market.  Promises to be a great treasure hunt of “gently used” kitchen tools, equipment, cookbooks and tableware (Marth Stewart eat your heart out!) with all the proceeds going to support the school garden.  Hosted by Slow Food Hawai’i.  It’s also a good reason to “spring clean” your kitchen cupboards and call event chair Clare Bobo to arrange pickup or delivery of donated items (883-2629). 

4^th ANNUAL BIG ISLAND FILM FESTIVAL:  May 14-17, 2009.  Waikoloa Beach Resort.  Celebrating new independent narrative filmmakers and their feature and short films from Hawaii and around the world. Outdoor and indoor venues makes this unique “Talk Story” film festival a favorite of residents and visitors alike. The Festival venue under the stars in the beautiful Waikoloa Bowl at Queens’ MarketPlace, the Ohana venue for family films, multiple daytime films, and social events honoring an actor and a filmmaker are all wrapped in the spirit of Aloha.  Sunday, May 17th is a special day beginning with an Awards Brunch then wrapping up the 4 days with The Best of the Fest: a 5-7pm concert by Makana followed by Audience Choice feature and short films. One dollar from each Best of the Fest ticket sold will be donated to the Big Island Food Bank.  The annual Silent Auction to benefit the Wounded Warrior Project will again be held on Sunday beginning at 4 p.m.  Tickets start at $5; Kama’aina pricing available for evening film and Best of the Fest tickets.  Info: www.bigislandfilmfestival.com, call 883-0394 or email: info@bigislandfilmfestival.com. 

WAIMEA OUTDOOR CIRCLE 20/10 CELEBRATION MARKS SIGNIFICANT COMMUNITY ACHIEVEMENTS:  Mark your calendar for Sat., May 16, 2009 – and plan to join WOC members and friends in celebrating the circle’s 20^th anniversary of community service to the families of Waimea and North Hawai’i, and the 10^th anniversary of community work to nurture Ulu La’au – Waimea Nature Park. The 20/10 Celebration will be held in Ulu La’au under a large tent. More details to come.  Info: Arlene Block (885-4753). 

LOWER YOUR ELECTRIC BILL:  Free workshop, 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Sat., May 16, 2009.  HPA’s Castle Lecture Hall/Upper Campus.  ‘Green Team’ representing sponsors Hawai’i Community College, Friends of NELHA and HELCO, will analyze your electric bill, do an energy audit of your home or office, share info on new devices to cut energy usage, calculate return on investment, rebates, tax credits and other incentives and methods of financing energy efficiency equipment.  Reservations required: 974-7531.  Program also offered in Pahala, at NELHA Gateway Center, Pahoa and Hilo. 

GOT A MILLION-DOLLAR IDEA FOR A ‘BLOCKBUSTER’ MOVIE?  Bring it to the 2009 Big Island Film Festival’s “Screenplay in a Day” class, 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m., Sat., May 16 at Waikoloa Beach Resort.  Three top screenwriters with credits from 20th Century Fox, Disney, DreamWorks, MTV, New Line Cinema, Revolution Studios and others, will teach key creative and Hollywood business concepts to students on all levels—even those with no writing experience—in an info-packed professional seminar.  Cost:  $40 for the full day seminar, made possible through a grant from the Hawaii County Film Commissioner’s Office and Hawaii County Dept. of Research & Development. Visit www.BigIslandFilmFestival.com or call 883-0394 to sign up.

HAWAII PERFORMING ARTS FEST PRESENTS JAKE SHIMABUKURO IN CONCERT:  7 p.m., Mon., May 18, 2009.  Hoku Amphitheatre at Four Seasons Resort.  Performing with Iggy Jang, Concertmaster of the Honolulu Symphony, along with Leokane Pryor and Friends.  Tickets $50 plus tax.  No coolers please.  Proceeds benefit 5^th season of the Hawai’I Performing Arts Festival this coming July at HPA in Waimea.  Info and tickets:
www.hawaiiperformingartsfestival.org.

WAIMEA MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS CELEBRATE ‘MAY DAY’:  9 a.m., Fri., May 22, 2009.  Thelma Parker Memorial Gym.  Families invited to enjoy this long-standing annual celebration featuring student and court performances honoring Waimea’s paniolo, farming and lei making heritage.  Free.  Seating limited and first come with preference to kupuna and parents with young infants.  Donations of greenery welcome several days in advance to decorate the gym.  Info: Pua Case (989-9535). 

WAIMEA COMMUNITY THEATRE PRESENTS ‘WHAT THE BUTLER SAW’:  May 22-24 and 29-31.  Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m.  Parker School Theatre.  Directed by John Sucke, this play is a fast paced, sexy, modern British farce with a totally preposterous conclusion that caps the mad escapade.  Not recommended for children and pre-teens.  Tickets $12/Adults; $10/Seniors and Students.  Info:  John Sucke (885-4495).

EXPERIENCE THE TIMELESS BEAUTY AND HISTORY OF WAIPI’O VALLEY DURING CAMPOUT AT MOKU WAI:  Begins at 1 p.m., Sat., June 6, and ends at noon, Sun., June 7, 2009 at the taro farm owned by Jayson and Alberta Mock Chew.  This overnight campout will kick off Slow Food Hawaii’s fundraising with all proceeds used to send Hawaii Island delegates to the biennial international meeting of the Terra Madre Network in Turin, Italy in October 2010. Go to:  http://www.slowfoodusa.org/index.php/programs/details/bringing_terra_madre_home/ for more about Terra Madre.  A delicious dinner prepared by Alberta and family will be served Saturday night. Campers responsible for their own breakfast Sunday and other meals if you arrive early and/or stay late, beverages and snacks.  Drinking water will be available in Igloo jugs. Please bring plates, cups, glasses and eating utensils. Two communal propane burners for food preparation provided or bring your own propane stoves or barbeque grills.  Participants sleep in tents, in your 4-wheel drive vehicles or under the night sky, weather permitting. There will be a large tent set up with table and chairs for eating and congregating.  Program will begin at 1 p.m. with a tour of Moku Wai and talk about taro. Many other activities planned including after-dinner talk by Kalae and Kanani Mock Chew (Alberta and Jayson’s son and daughter-in-law), who were delegates to Terra Madre in 2006.  Music is always a part of the nights in Waipi’o — bring your ‘ukulele and other instrument to join in.  4-wheel drive required to get to into the valley, cross the river and reach the farm.   Carpooling may be possible.  Cost:  $75 for members; $100 for non-members.  For for the afternoon and dinner only: $50/members or $75 for non-members.  Deadline to register: May 15.  E-mail Jeanne Oshima at baileyandoshima@hawaiiantel.net.  Payment required to secure reservation. 

LAST DAY OF SCHOOL FOR WAIMEA ELEMENTARY AND MIDDLE SCHOOLS:  11:30 a.m., Mon., June 8, 2009. 

KAMEHAMEHA DAY – Thurs., June 11, 2009. 

WAIMEA COMMUNITY CHORUS CONCERT:  Fri.-Sun., June 12-14, 2009.  Parker School Theatre.  7:30 p.m. Fri. & Sat., 3 p.m. Sun.  More details and ticket information to come. 

WAIMEA SUMMER ENRICHMENT PROGRAM FOR K-8 STUDENTS:  8 a.m.- 4 p.m., June 12-July 2, 2009.  Co-sponsored by Waimea Elementary, Waimea Middle and Kamehameha Schools.  Open too all students.  $160 tuition.  Financial aid available via Alu Like and other possible sources.  Applications available in school offices.  Program includes both cultural learning and academic skill building as well as several exciting excursions.  Info: Diane Kimura-Sugiyama (887-6936 Ext. 249).

DENNIS ROSE MEMORIAL GOLF TOURNAMENT:  8:30 a.m. checking; 10 a.m. shotgun start.  Sat., June 13, 2009.  Waikoloa Kings’ Golf Course.  A fundraiser with silent auction to benefit Big island Junior Golf including a $1,000 scholarship to Big Island high school senior who is a junior golfer in memory of beloved Hawai’i Island golfer.  

WAIMEA HUNTER EDUCATION SAFETY CLASSES:  5:45-9:45 p.m., June 15, 16 & 18, 2009.  At the new DLNR Hunter Ed building on Lalamilo farms Road.  Covers safe gun handling, archery hunting, responsible/ethical hunting, survival, first-aid, Wildlife identification and conservation, hunting rules and regs, proper game care and outdoor responsibility.  Attendance at all sessions required for ce rtification.  Open to anyone 10 years of age and above interested in hunting and/or who enjoys outdoor activities.  To pre-register, call 887-6050.  Please bring photo ID to the first class. 

2^ND ANNUAL MALA’A SCHOOL GARDEN ‘ART & SOL’ SUMMER SOLSTICE CELEBRATION:  Sun., June 21, 2009 – Summer Solstice.  Merriman’s Restaurant in Waimea.  A benefit gathering and auction featuring art, health gardening pleasures and treasures to support this not-for-profit school garden serving Waimea Middle School students, families and community.  Auction will feature superb pieces donated by artists including stunning milo umeke (bowls) carved by Sol Apio.  Ticket information and auction list info available soon.  Call Matilda Tompson (885-9206) or go to www.mala’ai.org. 

2^ND WAIMEA MIDDLE SCHOOL SUMMER ‘JUMP START’ FOR INCOMING 6^TH GRADERS:  9 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., Mon.-Fri., June 22-July 10, 2009.  No class Fri., July 3 to celebrate Independence Weekend.  Free.  To smooth the transition from elementary to middle school, have fun exploring Waimea traditions and build academic skills.  Includes lunch and transportation from Kawaihae and Ouli.  Others urged to use the County’s free in-town shuttle.  Info: 887-6090 Ext. 268/Curriculum and Summer Programs Coordinator Mrs. Jade Bowman. 

2009 HAWAII PERFORMING ARTS FESTIVAL:  Opening night concert – July 9 with performances continuing all month, culminating in a final weekend of concerts July 25-26.  New festival representative:  Carole Chillingworth of Waimea – email: info@hawaiiperformingartsfestival.org  

FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL FOR WAIMEA MIDDLE:  8 a.m., Fri., July 31, 2009.  For 6^th Grade students only.  All students report on Mon., Aug. 3, 2009. 

HAWAI’I STATEHOOD DAY:  Fri., Aug. 21, 2009.  Public schools closed. 

12^th ANNUAL DANIEL R. SAYRE MEMORIAL FOUNDATION BENEFIT:  4:30 p.m., Sat., Sept. 5, 2009.  Fairmont Orchid Hotel.  Save the date.  To support rescue/emergency equipment for Hawai’i County Fire Department and honor these men and women for their heroic dedication to this community.  More info – go to http://www.danielsayrefoundation.com/.

31^st ANNUAL FORD IRONMAN TRIATHLON:  Sat., Oct. 10, 2009.  2.4 mile swim.  112 mile bike ride.  26.2 mile run.  Reminder: Road closures; expect delays.   Also, please practice ‘aloha’ and use extreme caution when passing cyclists and others in training prior to the event. 

49^th ANNUAL WAIMEA CHRISTMAS TWILIGHT PARADE & ALL-DAY ‘LOKAHI GIVING’ CELEBRATION:  Sat., Dec. 5, 2009.  Lighted parade featuring Santa and festively decorated trucks and floats from 6-7 p.m.  Traffic Advisory: Main highway thru Waimea will be closed during the parade.  Expect delays and bring warm clothing.  Throughout the day community volunteers, celebrities and keiki to kupuna performers will gather to accept new, unwrapped gifts, cash donations and food for the Hawai’i Island Lokaha Giving Project.  Throughout town, artists/crafters will offer holiday gift ideas at farmers markets and craft fairs.  Info:  Lani Olsen-Chong (936-4376).

ONGOING ACTIVITIES:

WAIMEA FREE ‘IN-TOWN’ COUNTY SHUTTLE NOW ‘CIRCLING’ KUHIO VILLAGE:  The shuttle route is now swinging around Kuhio Village — serving village residents and also Kanu o ka ‘Aina’s new Kauhale during it’s Monday-Saturday service.  This has been requested by community residents since the start of service so is great news!  This will not change timing significantly.  Shuttle can be flagged to pick up passengers providing there’s room at the edge of the road to do so safely. 

FREE TAX PREP, EMPLOYMENT COUNSELING, FINANCIAL EDUCATION AND MORE:  Waimea’s new Hawai’i First Community Resource Center is a not-for-profit located upstairs in Waimea Center – aka KTA shopping center/behind McDonalds.  Created through Hawai’i First Federal Credit Union employees and leadership to provide financial education, job seeking support and training, resume coaching, help to start a small business, prevent foreclosure or access office computer programs.  It’s free but a membership card required and appointments suggested.  Info: Community Development Coordinator Alycia Juvik (885-6600). 

FREE/REDUCED LUNCH & BUS TRANSPORTATION APPLICATIONS STILL ACCEPTED AT PUBLIC SCHOOLS:  With the rocky economy reducing work hours and changing incomes, families are urged to apply at any time during the year to request Free/Reduced Lunch and Free Bus transportation for public school students.  Families are asked to come to the school office and pick up forms.    

ANNUNCIATION CATHOLIC CHURCH FOOD PANTRY OPEN EVERY TUESDAY:  9:30-11:30 a.m.  Volunteers and donations welcome.  Info:  Ann Lum (885-0879). 

FOOD DONATIONS ARE NEEDED every day throughout the year by both of our Waimea food pantries – run by Annunciation Catholic Church and New Hope Christian Fellowship.  Ditto for Hawai’i Island Food Basket (formerly known as the Food Bank).  Your kokua would be MOST appreciated!  New Hope Waimea – Johanna Reeve (885-5510) and Annunciation Catholic Church – Ann Lum (885-0879). 

COMMUNITY VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: 

• Mala’ai: The Culinary Garden of Waimea Middle School:  Amanda Rieux (640-3637)
• Friends of Thelma Parker Memorial Library:  Carol Buck (885-9718)  
• Ulu La’au – Waimea Nature Park:  Carol Hendricks (885-4453)
• Newborn Baby Baskets Assembly:  Angela Thomas (990-6754)
• North Hawai’i Hospice (885-7547)

WAIMEA ELEMENTARY OFFERS LOW-COST AFTER-SCHOOL CLASSES:  Spring learning adventures include quilt stories and quilting, keyboarding music lessons and a writer’s workshop, plus ongoing Comic Book project, art for fun, boosting math skills using a computer, ‘ukulele, hula and Japanese bon dancing.  $20 registration fee per class with scholarships available to qualified applicants.  Includes after-school snacks.  Forms available in the school office.  Info: 887-7636 Ext. 249. 

REPORT DONKEY SIGHTINGS ON WAIKILOA ROAD:  Waikoloa residents are working with the County to keep the “Kona Nightingales” (i.e., donkeys) off Waikoloa Road.  They ask community help with reporting sightings.  They are inspecting fences all the way up from the village up to Mamalahoa Highway (Hwy 190).  If you see a donkey, please call Scott Knowles with the County of Hawai’I (961-8068).  Please report date, time of day, approximate location. Together we can save lives: ours and the donkeys!

GOOD GRIEF GROUP:  Hospice “Good Grief Groups” help calm the storms of loss.  Hospice volunteers and grief counselors say they are like each of us, still in a struggle with what was and will not be again and they welcome those who need some support to join them as they share their  own struggles, and learn together to adjust to a new reality.  Weekly gatherings are free.  Please call Galen, Hospice Bereavement Coordinator, at 345-6038 to confirm participation and day/time. 

HAWAIIAN ‘OHANA FOR EDUCATION IN THE ARTS:  TRADITIONAL AND CONTEMPORARY FINE ARTS STUDIO PROGRAM IN WAIMEA:  An exciting new program to nurture traditional arts and practices and raise them to a new level led by Hiko Hanapi and other highly respected practitioners and artists.  Registration now being accepted for Summer Session May 25-June 19, 2009; Winter Session Dec. 7-18, 2009.  Classes will focus on Visual Fundamentals, Ka Hana Kapa (kapa making), Ka Hana Kalai La’au (wood carving, kapa implements, ‘umeke and pahu; Printmaking and Jewelry Making.  Enrollment limited – for ages 17 and up with preference to Native Hawaiian applicants.  There is tuition and financial aid available  For info, go to www. Khf.hoea.org, email info@khf-hoea.org or call 885-6541.  Funded in part by a grant from the Administration for Native Americans.

HEALING OUR ISLAND COMMUNITY FUND MINI-GRANTS AVAILABLE:  Applications due to the Department of Research and Development by 4:30 p.m. on the 10^th of each month or the first business day following it if it falls on a weekend or holiday.  Grants intended to fund grassroots groups without ordinary access to traditional grant sources to plan and implement community-led anti-drug initiatives, services, programs and events in Hawai’i County.  Limited to no more than $2,000.  Collaboration with other groups and organizations recommended.  Applications should be submitted at least eight weeks before the event.  Info: Laverne Omori (327-3665) or email hcrc@co.hawaii.hi.us. 

WAIMEA COMMUNITY CHORUS REHEARSALS BEGIN FOR SPRING CONCERT:  7 p.m., Tuesday evenings at St. James Episcopal Church.  Will feature songs from 1950’s Broadway, directed by Barbara Kopra.  No audition needed, only a commitment to weekly rehearsals for four months.   

LOW-COST EAR ACUPUNCTURE COMMUNITY CLINIC:  10 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., Saturdays on a walk-in basis please Traditional Chinese Medical Chinese Medical College of Hawaii.  $15 with discount available for Seniors.  Located at 65-1206 Mamalahoa Highway in Waimea Office Center behind the Chevron.  The ear is used as a microsystem to treat many complaints  (allergies, pain, digestive disturbances, etc.), but especially is used for anxiety, stress and addictions (i.e., smoking).  The ear acupuncture system used actually originated in France and was developed by a French neurologist, Paul Nogier, in the 1st half of the 20th century, and was adopted by the Chinese.  One of many services available provided by student interns under licensed clinical supervision.  Info: Maureen McLaughlin, Lac, Clinical Dean (895-0997).

WAIMEA BALLROOM DANCE CLUB BEGINNING SALSA LESSONS:  Mondays, now through Feb. 9, 2009.  Waimea School Cafeteria.  Instructors Franz and Joanna Weber present five week class, followed by a social night at the Blue Barn.  Lessons start at 6:30 p.m. with supervised practice from 7:30 p.m.  $10 annual membership plus $10 for block of lessons.  Info: Peter In (885-4776). 

IMPORTANT – COMMUNITY INVITED TO REVIEW SITE SELECTION DRAFT FOR WAIMEA DISTRICT/REGIONAL PARK SITES:  Go to www.WaimeaPlan.org/issues/parks to review preliminary site assessments of 9 sites.  Questions/comments: email/mail comments to:

·         James Komata, Hawaii County Dept. of Parks and Recreation, Tel: 961-8531, Fax: 961-8411 and  email: jkomata@co.hawaii.hi.us; 

·         Thomas S. (Tom) Witten, PBR Hawaii & Associates, Inc., Tel:  808-521-5631, Fax: 808-523-1402, and email twitten@pbrhawaii.com; or 

·         Mel Macy, Waimea District Park Builders (a volunteer advisory group), Tel: 960-3053, or email melmacy@hotmail.com. 

FIRST SATURDAY ‘UNIVERSE TONIGHT’ PROGRAM CONTINUES:  6 p.m. monthly at the Onizuka Center for International Astronomy at the 9,300 foot level of Mauna Kea.  Begins with a talk at the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station off Saddle Road, then portable telescopes are set up.  Seating first-come.  Each month a speaker from a different Mauna Kea observatory shares recent observations and discoveries.  Info: 961-2180 or go to www.ifa.hawaii.edu/info/vis.  It’s wise to check on weather conditions ahead of time and bring appropriate warm clothing, drinking water and snacks. 

NEW FREE HAWAI’I COUNTY ‘CITY WATCH’ PILOT PROJECT LAUNCHES MASS EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION SYSTEM:  “City Watch” is an electronic notification system that can notify residents about evacuations or other emergency measures – including appropriate responses — via phone or email.  It’s free to all Hawai’i County residents.  Residents need to register by mailing info: County of Hawai`i Civil Defense Agency, 920 Ululani Street, Hilo, HI 96720, or http://www.citywatchonline.com/CSBSignUp/HawaiiSignUp.asp.  To register, please give your name, street address (no P.O. boxes, please), city, zip code, home phone, cell phone, cell phone carrier and email address. If your phone number is listed in the phone book white pages, you will be automatically registered.  However, if your listed phone number is on a “do not call list,” you will need to register as well cell phone users and all wishing to be contacted by email. 

WEST HAWAII DANCE ACADEMY:  A wide array of classes in creative movement (ages 3-7), pre-ballet, primary and classical ballet, jazz, hip hop/funk, African dance, pilates, yoga and more.  Located in Uilani Plaza-Waimea.  Info: 885-8876 or go to www.whdt.org

ULU LA’AU/WAIMEA NATURE PARK:  Open from 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily – behind the Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope headquarters building.  Plenty of parking inside the Nature Park (please do not park at CFHT).  For more information and a map, go to www.outdoorcircle.org/branches/waimea/, and click on Ulu La’au. New to the=2 0park:  WIFI coverage!  A project of Waimea Outdoor Circle.

COQUI ALERT/WAIMEA:  Report immediately to the county’s coqui control program (K aren Shiroma – 961-8065), or the Big Island Invasive Species Hotline:  961-3299.  Or, call State Dept. of Agriculture – Kyle Onuma (974-4140 ext. 22) or Tim Ohashi (933-6955). 

COQUI ALERT/NORTH KOHALA:  Call the North Kohala Coqui Hotline: 889-5775.  

VET CENTERS OF HAWAI’I HOSTS BRIEFINGS & OUTREACH:  9 a.m. – Noon, First & Third Thursdays of every month – Waimea Community Center; 2nd and 4th Thursdays of every month – Waikoloa Village Market throughout June & July 2008.   Representatives from the Hilo and Kona Vet Centers will be available to all Veterans and their families. Info:  (969-3835, 329-0574, or 960-1904)

SHARING THE WEALTH OF OUR BACK YARDS:  Do you have overflowing orange, tangerine, avocado, etc. trees, or runaway zucchini?  As part of an Urban Farming initiative, volunteers in Waimea and Waikoloa will pick or pick up fruits or vegetables from your garden that you wish to share.  These will be delivered to the Food Bank.  Call Tina Wirth at 887-1087 or email Sue Kilbride at JSJSDTC@aol.com. 

GREENWASTE DISPOSAL:  Organa Grow – formerly known as the Hawaiian Fresh Egg Farm on Kawaihae Road – is accepting greenwaste to recycle into mulch and/or organic compost.  There is a small charge but it assures more environmentally desirable disposal of greenwaste.  David M. Davenport (882-7931).

E-WASTE DISPOSAL:  Televisions, computer monitors and peripherals, cells and telephones, DVDs, VCRs, inkjet, laser and toner cartridges, microwave ovens, fax machines and copiers, digital cameras, printers and laptops – do not dump at the transfer station!  Drop off at Bayside Computer Shop (108 Kalakaua Street, Hilo – tel: 934-7748), or Kona CompuCycle in Kaloko Business Center below Costco parking lot – tel: 987-4818.  Free to residents; small per pound charge for businesses.  Info:  Recycle Hawai’i: 961-2676. 

DOZENS OF NEW CLASSES AT WAIMEA COMMUNITY EDUCATION:  For class lists, instructor information, etc., call 885-1539 or go online http://www.waimeaeducation.com/. 

NORTH HAWAI’I EDUCATION AND RESEARCH CENTER (NHERC) NEW HOURS:  Mondays through Thursdays, 7:45 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. to accommodate more community access to the facility.  Also, from 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Fridays.  Grassroots and community organizations not charging a fee may use the facilities for free as long as the space is available and during the above times.  Rooms are available with capacities ranging from 20 to 140 individuals.  The Center’s computer lab is also available for use by the public.  Membership is available on an annual basis for a fee of $45.  UH Hilo and HawCC faculty, staff and students may use the lab free of charge.  Info:  775-8890 or emailing nherc@hawaii.edu. 

DEPARTMENT OF WATER SUPPLY EARTHQUAKE IMPACT REPAIR UPDATES NOW ONLINE:  Go to the DWS website: http://www.hawaiidws.org/.  Includes cost estimates, timelines, status, location, and scope of work.  Info: Kanani Aton (961-8050 Ext. 204). 

HAWAI’I ISLAND KEIKI IN NEED OF A SAFE, LOVING ‘OHANA: West Hawai’i has over 160 children in foster care, and we have 2,100 children statewide who need a caring home. You can make a difference in a child’s life and give hope for the future to a child by becoming a Foster/Resource family.  Call Hui Ho’omalu’s intake number Toll Free: (888) 879-8970, or call their West Hawai’i community liaison, Linda Case (896-3829) to discuss requirements. 

WAIMEA SHELTER – HAWAII ISLAND HUMANE SOCIETY:  8 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., Mondays-Saturdays.  Low Income Spay/Neuter Program:  Applicants must demonstrate financial need, such as an EBT card or by meeting financial criteria.  Proof of income required.  Qualified individuals are able to purchase discounted certificates: $25/male cat; $35/female cat.  $45/male dog; $50/female dog.  Certificates also available w/o income criteria for slightly more.  Info:  885-4558. 

‘HOW-TO’   PREPAREDNESS HANDBOOK DISPELLS MYTHS SURROUNDING MAJOR HAZARDS FOR HAWAI’I COUNTY HOMEOWNERS:   Go to www.soest.hawaii.edu/SEAGRANT/communication/publications.php for a newly researched 108-page how-to guide to preparing homes for four major hazards – earthquakes, tsunami, hurricanes and floods – and organizing emergency supply and evacuation kits.  The guide includes information on the state’s loss mitigation grant which will reimburse homeowners a third of the cost of upgrades for certain natural disasters up to $2,100.  Additional information on grants available can be found at www.hurricaneretrofits.hawaii.gov. 

PU’UKOHOLA HEIAU LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS:  Volunteers needed fore re-vegetation, maintenance, admin, visitor center operations, cultural demonstrations and education programs.  Scheduling flexible.  Info: Chief Ranger Benjamin Saldua (882-7218) or email ben_saldua@nps.gov. 

HAWAI’I’S BOOSTER SEAT LAW:  Booster seats or child safety seats for children between 4-7 are required by law.  There is a $100-$500 fine for non-compliance.  Families can apply for a State tax credit of $25 to offset the cost of purchasing required equipment.  Info: Keiki Injury Prevention Coalition at 1-(808) 537-9200 or visit their website at http://www.kipchawaii.org/.

HAKAL AU FOREST NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE/MAULAU TRACT:  Open Saturdays, Sundays and holidays by reservation for bird watching, hiking, photography only.  Call 933-6915. 

SUSPECTED MARINE MAMMAL AND PROTECTED SPECIES VIOLATIONS:  Call 1-800-853-1964 for NOAA’s Office of Law Enforcement.

WAIKOLOA ART CENTER WEEKLY ART GATHERING:  9 a.m. – Noon, Fridays and 1-5 p.m., Sundays for adults to come together in an unstructured atmosphere with space to work and share.  All levels of experience in any medium welcome.  Waikoloa Village Community Room (next to the Waikoloa Village Administration offices).  Bring your own supplies and a cloth or plastic drape to cover your table.  Sink and restroom facilities available.  Info: Ruth Bernstone (883-3809) or Jacquie Koscil (883-9584).

MOPS OF WAIMEA MEETS:  9-11:30 a.m. first Friday of the month at Waimea First Baptist Church.  Childcare provided. 

KOHALA RESOURCE CENTER:  www.northkohala.org.

PUAKO COMMUNITY NEWS:  http://www.puako.org. /

STATE IDENTITY THEFT WEBSITE: http://www.idtheft.hawaii.gov. /; Provides tips on prevention and what to do if your identity is s tolen.  Or call 808-587-3222. 

HAWAI’I COUNTY SIGN CODE ONLINE:  Go to http://www.hawaii-county.com/ and look for “signcode.”  Also available for $4 from Hawaii County Clerk.  Or, call Waimea Outdoor Circle for abbreviated summary in layman’s language:  885-5210. 

HAWAI’I COUNTY COUNCIL SOUTH KOHALA OFFICE TELECONFERENCE SERVICES:  Holomua Center Suite C-5 – across Kamamalu St. from Waimea Police Station – next to Waimea Feed and Top Stitch.   Community welcome to participate in County hearings, meetings by remote teleconferencing equipment.  No charge.  Tel: 887-2043/Fax: 887-2072.  

POISON HOTLINE – 1-800-222-1222.

WAIMEA HAWAIIAN HOMESTEADERS FARMERS MARKET:  7 a.m. – noon every Saturday on the lawn fronting Kuhio Hale – Hawaiian Homes Hall.  Don’s miss the First Saturdays celebration with many addition vendors and program. 

WAIMEA TOWN MARKET AT PARKER SCHOOL:  8 a.m. – 2 p.m., Saturdays.  A great new addition to weekly shopping venues featuring locally grown and produced foods – vegetables, fruit, herbs and freshly baked artisan breads by Kevin and Kay Cabrera, hot coffee, breakfast and lunch plus art, jewelry, spa products and more.  Everyone invited.  Info: Betsy Sanderson (938-2897). 

WAIKOLOA VILLAGE FARMERS MARKET:  7:15 a.m. every Sat. in Waikoloa Community Church parking lot across from Waikoloa Elementary School. 

HAWI FARMERS MARKET:  7:30 a.m. until pau every Saturday.  Under the banyan tree near the post office. 

FREE ADULT AND CHILDREN TAIKO CLASSES:  Saturdays at Kohala Intergenerational Center.  Presented by the Ryukyukoku Matsuri Daiko Hawaii-Kohala Chapter for children and adults.  Wear covered shoes and bring drinking water.  Children’s class from 9-9:30 a.m.; adult class (12 and over) at 9:30 a.m.  To register or for information: Kathy (889-5801) or Sadie (889-6298).

EMILY GAIL TALKS GOLF:  6-7 p.m., every Saturday on ESPN Radio AM850 AM790.  Info: Emily Gail (896-6780). 

RELIGIOUS SOCIETY OF FRIENDS (QUAKERS) MEETING 4TH SUNDAY OF MONTH:  Everyone welcome.  Gatherings move from community to community.  Info: Elaine Warner (885-1725).

WATER AEROBICS & WEIGHT TRAINING FOR WOMEN AT HPA:  8:30 a.m., Mon., Wed., Fri. for deep water aerobics; 8:15 a.m., Tues. & Thurs., for weight training.  HPA upper campus.  All women invited.   All equipment provided.  Pilates classes also offered daily.  Info:  Instructor Kelly Ryan (557-0949). 

WAIKOLOA SENIORS M ONTHLY MEETING:  9 a.m. on the third Monday of each month.  Community Room adjacent to the Waikoloa Village Association offices on Melia Street.  Begins with a potluck breakfast and a speaker.  Info: 883-2424.   

WAIMEA BALLROOM DANCE FALL CLASSES:  6:30-8:30 p.m., Mondays thru Dec. 15.  Waimea School Cafeteria.  Everyone invited.  Classes to feature Samba and NightClub 2-Step.  Registration starts at 6 p.m. for the first three weeks.  Instructors Franz and Joanna Weber.  Beginners welcomed, no partner necessary. Info: Peter In, president (885-4776).  .

WAIMEA TRAILS & GREENWAYS WEEKLY MEETING:  5-6 p.m. every=2 0Monday at The Kohala Center except the first Monday of the month, when they try to meet “in the community.”   Info:  Clem Lam email: c.lam4@verizon.net or 885-4431. 

NORTH HAWAI’I HOSPICE COMMUNITY BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUP:  5 p.m. on the first Tuesday of every month – facilitated by NHH social worker at the NHH Office, 65-1328 Kawaihae Road.  Everyone welcome.  Group provides a friendly, supportive environment.  Meetings are confidential, and attendees will find that in the midst of their grief, there is also room for laughter and new friends.  Info: Bereavement Coordinator Galen Schelb (885-7547). 

QUILTERS MEET WEDNESDAYS AT NHERC:  8:30 a.m. – Noon. Every Wednesday.  Led by Dorothy Badua, Jodean Dela Cruz and Mary Hinck.  Everyone welcome.  Bring your own sewing machine and extension cords or, if you hand quilt, your needles, scissors and thread.  Info: 775-0726. 

HISTORIC 160-YEAR-OLD ANNA RANCH TOURS:  10 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m. on Wednesdays and Fridays, and 9 a.m. and 1:30 and 3:30 p.m. on Saturdays.  Founded by Anna’s great-great grandfather in 1848, and formerly known as Lindsey Ranch, Anna’s is still a working ranch, famous for its stunning setting on the flanks of the Kohala mountains, its herd of prized white Charolais cattle and an expert horsewoman-rancher-and community patron.  The sprawling home, started about 1910, has undergone partial restoration and provides a glimpse of a bygone era and family who were dedicated stewards of the land, animals and paniolo culture.  Tours: $7 per person; reservations recommended.  Groups limited to 10-12 persons please. Info:  Dr. Momi Naughton (885-4426). 

NORTH HAWAII ROTARY:  Noon every Wednesday.  Daniel Thiebaut’s Restaurant.  There is a charge for lunch.  Public welcome as the guest of a club member.  Info: President Jim Fritz (jamesfritz@kohalaroofing.com).

NEW WAIMEA JUNIOR GIRL SCOUT TROOP:  Meetings on Wednesday afternoons, led by Vera Ward (885-0385). 

DISCOVER AUNTIE CONNIE’S READING CORNER: The Friends of Thelma Parker Memorial Library have renamed the Book Nook after long time Waimea Elementary School volunteer Auntie Connie Erger.  The expanded Book Nook is a great source of inexpensive books ($1 for most hardbacks; 50 cents for paper backs and a few specials between $1-5.  Funds benefit the Friends community efforts to support the library and literacy.  Info:  Friends Vice President Jacqui Hoover (960-7503).

6 p.m., Friday, March 20, 2009.  Waimea School Cafeteria. Everyone invited.  There will be time for questions and answers. 

Aloha Kakou,

Here is an update for the North and South Kohala CDP Action Committee selection processes.  Please forward to interested parties.

The Planning Department has received 11 applications to the North Kohala CDP AC and 17 to the South Kohala CDP AC.  We have sent out acknowledgment letters to all of the applicants.

The next step is to interview the applicants and we will be scheduling appointments with all of the applicants in the month of April.  Scheduling permitting, we hope to have all interviews for both North and South completed by  the end of the April.

If you have any questions, please call Allen Salavea at 327-3510. 

Aloha,

Allen A. Salavea

County of Hawaii Planning Department

Hanama Place

75-5706 Kuakini Hwy, Suite 109,

Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

Office: (808) 327-3612

Cell: (808) 756-5267

Fax: (808) 327-3563

Email: asalavea@co.hawaii.hi.us

 Hawaii County is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer

Waimea food pantries are in overwhelm – their shelves are bare (or very low) and the requests for help continue to grow.  To contribute to the needs of hungry children and families, Waimea Community Association is launching a new monthly food collection and food gift card purchase program at its monthly Town Meetings. 

Attendees at the association’s monthly first-Thursdays meetings are asked to bring one or several non-perishable food items – or better still, to make a cash donation to purchase gift certificates that can be distributed by Annunciation Food Pantry and/or New Hope Fellowship Food Pantry to their clients. 

The next WCA Town Meeting is at 5:15 p.m. — Thurs., March 5, 2009 — in Parker School Theatre.  Cash or checks will be accepted in addition to food donations.  (Checks payable to Annunciation Church are tax deductible to the extent permitted by law.)

This month’s WCA Town Meeting agenda also includes a briefing about a planned museum to honor and celebrate this community’s warm welcome of U.S. Marines during World War II to what was a highly classified military secret known as Camp Tarawa. 

Other items on the agenda include an introduction of newly elected officers and directors of the Waimea Community Association, a briefing about the new Hawai’i First Community Resource Center – a free financial resource equivalent of Tutu’s House where individuals and families can get help with sorting out financial concerns, preparing resumes and conducting job searches, assistance with tax preparation and internet access. 

The urgent need of Waimea’s two public charter schools to secure fair, equitable per pupil funding from the 2009 State Legislature will be discussed, and Councilman Pete Hoffmann will be formally thanked for his support for The 2008 Great Waiomina Centennial Celebration by the Paniolo Preservation Society. 

There is no charge to attend WCA Town Meetings though a $12 annual membership is suggested. 

For information about the town meeting, call Bill Sanborn (895-1122). 

# # # # #

IMPORTANT COMMUNITY EVENTS:

BISHOP MUSEUM’S ‘HOLOHOLO SCIENCE’ FAMILY SCIENCE IN WAIMEA:  5:30-7:30 p.m., Fri., March 6.  Waimea school cafeter ia. Will feature 15 hands-on science activity stations in the areas of biology, Hawai’i ecology, space science and archaeology as well as the StarLab – with something for students K-8 an the whole family.  All invited.  !

NEW ‘YOUNG LIFE’ FOR HIGH SCHOOL TEENS IN WAIMEA:  7-8:30 p.m., Fri., March 6, 2009.  Waimea Baptist Church.  Open to all high schoolers – for an evening of hilarious skits, games, music and a message just for teens – including a possible summer camp in Colorado.  A non-denominational youth program led by Keone McKeague of Waimea.  Free and all teens welcome.  Info: Paula Elarionoff: 885-7516. 

HI-5 REDEMPTION AT WAIMEA TRANSFER STATION CLOSED SAT., MARCH 7, 2009:  Due to the Household Hazardous Waste Event Collection at the site that day.  Info: County Solid Waste Division’s Recycling Section (961-8527 or 961-8270) or www.hawaiizerowaste.org

GOOD GRIEF GROUP:  Hospice “Good Grief Groups” help calm the storms of loss.  Hospice volunteers and grief counselors say they are like each of us, still in a struggle with what was and will not be again and they welcome those who need some support to join them as they share their  own struggles, and learn together to adjust to a new reality.  Weekly gatherings are free.  Please call Galen, Hospice Bereavement Coordinator, at 345-603820to confirm participation and day/time. 

KAHILU THEATRE 2009 SEASON CONTINUES:  Info/reservations:  885-6868 for the following or go to http://www.kahilutheatre.org/ for complete season details:

·         Pandit Chitresh Das w/ Jason Samuels Smith “India Jazz Suites”:  8 p.m., Sat., March 21

·         Poncho Sanchez Latin Jazz Band:  7 p.m., Sun., April 26

·         The Brothers Cazimero:  8 p.m., Sat., June 6

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR WAIMEA OUTDOOR CIRCLE’S ANNUAL PLANT SALE:  8 a.m. – 2 p.m., Sat., April 4, 2009.  Volunteers are the backbone of this event.  Setup in shifts on Fri., and throughout the day Saturday.  For those who do help, their “reward” will be an opportunity to enjoy the Friday evening presale from 5-7 p.m.  Many different skills needed including help with inventory,20exit checkers, cashiers with 10-key experience, security and cleanup.  Coffee and pastries provided for morning volunteers; Lunch for afternoon volunteers.   Email Ken Block for information or to confirm availability:  kenblock@hawaii.rr.com. 
 

17th YEAR OF AARP FREE TAX AIDE SERVICE:  9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Mondays and Thursdays, now thru April 13, 2009.  For low to moderate income and elderly clients.  New location:  the State Hunter Education Building, the second building on the left after turning onto Lalamilo Farm Lots Road.  Plenty of parking and handicap accessible.  For appointments, call Marge (987-6340). 

HAWAIIAN ‘OHANA FOR EDUCATION IN THE ARTS:  TRADITIONAL AND CONTEMPORARY FINE ARTS STUDIO PROGRAM IN WAIMEA:  An exciting new program to nurture traditional arts and practices and raise them to a new level led by Hiko Hanapi and other highly respected practitioners and artists.  Registration now being accepted for Summer Session May 25-June 19, 2009; Winter Session Dec. 7-18, 2009.  Classes will focus on Visual Fundamentals, Ka Hana Kapa (kapa making), Ka Hana Kalai La’au (wood carving, kapa implements, ‘umeke and pahu; Printmaking and Jewelry Making.  Enrollment limited – for ages 17 and up with preference to Native Hawaiian applicants.  There is tuition and financial aid available  For info, go to www. Khf.hoea.org, email info@khf-hoea.org or call 885-6541.  Funded in part by a grant from the Administration for Native Americans.

WAIMEA COMMUNTY THEATRE PRESENTS WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE’S ‘HAMLET’:  March 6, 7, 8, & March 14 & 15, 2009.  Parker School Theatre.  7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 3 p.m. Sundays.  Directed by Felicity Johnson.  Tickets available at the door.  Tickets $12/Adults, $10/Seniors/ $5/Student.  Available at Waimea General Store or at the door. 

COME MAKE A LEI!  9-11 a.m., Sat., March 7, 2009.  Under a tent at Waimea Hawaiian Homesteaders Farmers’ Market ‘First Saturday’ Celebration.  This informal gathering will continue the Paniolo Preservation Society Education Hui’s community-wide salute to lei makers as several of the community’s best will be on hand to share their expertise, and piles of fresh and dried plant materials will be provided to learn – or refine – your favorite style of lei making.  The program is being coordinated by Tootsie Berdon Weller, who is the 3rd of 4 generations of Waimea lei makers.  Her grandfather made his own akulikuli hat lei.  Her mom – Bernice Berdon — is highly regarded for this same signature lei of Waimea.  Tootsie prefers wili style that allows use of all types of materials – both native and non-native.  And her daughter Jill Moniz will also participate.  It’s all free!  Everyone welcome. 

HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE COLLECTION – WAIMEA:  8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., Sat., March 7, 2009.  Community invited to bring automotive fluids, chemicals, cleaners and other haza rdous household wastes to the Waimea Transfer Station collection area. 

GET THE SCOOP ON UH-HILO:  11 a.m. – 1 p.m., Sat., March 7, 2009.  King Kamehameha Hotel Ballroom 1.  Special guest alumni Dr. Gregory Chun to present along with current and former students and faculty who will be on hand to answer questions and provide info. Info: Mahealani (974-7414) or go to http://www.uhh.hawaii.edu/.  

9^th ANNUAL GREAT WAIKOLOA ‘UKULELE FESTIVAL:  2-7 p.m., Sat., March 7, 2009.  Free – to include emcee Danny Kaleikini, Hoku Zuttermeister, ‘ukulele workshop with Roy Sakuma (10 -11:30 a.m. at the Studio), guest performers including Aunty Maryann Lim, Ohta-san, Boo Takagi and John Keawe. Also Kanu o ka ‘Aina students, Na Kupuna ‘O Kona Ali’I, Hilo ‘Ukulele Band, Ka’u High School Ensemble and many more.  No charge for most of the entertainment but please bring non-perishable food donations.

25th ANNUAL NA ‘OPIO JUNIOR JURIED ART SHOW:  Waimea’s Firehouse Gallery.  Presented by Waimea Arts Council.  Student work will be on display throughout March.  Awards reception 3-5 p.m., Sat., March 7, 2009.  Community invited. 

16^th ANNUAL ‘UKULELE FESTIVAL AT HPA:  7 p.m., Sat., March 7, 2009.  Gates Performing Arts Center.  More than 120 students from HPA and Kealakehe Intermediate School will perform.   Free and entire community invited.  Festival theme is “Iz, The Man and His Music,” and will celebrate the music of Israel Kamakawiwo‘ole, the gentle giant of Hawaiian music with the voice of an angel.  Students will perform and dance to music made famous by Iz.  Students are directed by Gloria Juan-Tapa‘atoutai, Georgia Polakova, Dagan Bernstein and Lynn Kakugawa.  Info: 881-4099.

HAWAII ISLAND HOMEGROWN:  FOOD SELF-RELIANCE WORKSHOP IN HAWI:  6 p.m., Sun., March 8, 2009.  Kohala Intergenerational Center.  An all-day workshop to give participants a wide range of techniques for growing abundant quantities of food at home–without reliance on imported inputs. Farm tours included.  For gardeners, farmers, homeowners, landscapers, teachers, extension professionals, anyone interested in expanding Hawai’i community food self-reliance.&n bsp; Sponsored by Hawai’i County Resource Center and Department of Research and Development. Due to space constraints on field tours, participant numbers limited.  Registration $50, with a $15 scholarship for those who bring fruit to share.  Info: http://www.agroforestry.net/events/Hawi_Pahoa_food_security_workshops.pdf or

send an email to ngaire@agroforestry.net. 

WAIMEA BALLROOM DANCE CLUB:  Will begin new block of 5 lessons featuring East Coast Swing – every Monday thru March 30 from 6:30-8:30 p.m.  Cost: $10 for members plus annual membership of $10.  Registration at 6 p.m. at Waimea School Cafeteria.  Info:  Peter In (885-4776).& nbsp;

‘MYSPACE & FACEBOOK:  ARE THEY SAFE FOR MINORS?  WHAT PARENTS SHOULD KNOW!’  6-7 p.m., Thurs., March 12, 2009.  Waimea Middle School Classroom L-01.  Internet safety is a whole new can of worms for families with adolescent children.  The issue is safety and if you’ve seen the TV ads, the task of monitoring internet use is all the more challenging because young adults are extremely akamai about the internet.  To help WMS families understand these online “social networking” services, a free one-hour introductory class led by WMS Technology Teacher Ellen Cordeiro and Counselor Mary Martinson will co-present the class.  Families are asked to come direct to L-01.  The class is intended for adults only.  Seating limited and first to register – forms available in school office or b y calling Mary Martinson (887-6090 Ext. 251) or email Mary_Martinson@notes.k12.hi.us.

WAIMEA CONSORT FREE CONCERTS:  7 p.m., Fri., March 13, 2009 – People’s Theatre in Honoka’a, and 5 p.m., Sat., March 14 at Davies Chapel at HPA in Waimea.  This 12-member vocal ensemble will present the third program in a cycle devoted to the Four Elements – this being ‘Earth.”  Performance will feature a cappella vocal music from ancient to modern Europe and the US related one way or another to some form of earth.  Free and everyone invited.

IT TAKES A GARDEN TO GROW A COMMUNITY’ FREE FARM AND GARDEN TOURS AND ‘WORK & LEARN DAYS’  - A 5-Saturday series to nurture Waimea family interest in food gardening.  Hosted by Mala’ai: The Culinary Garden of Waimea Middle School with help from the West Hawai’i Fund and Richard Smart Fund through Hawai’i Community Foundation.  Limited enrollment and first come.  To register, please email tompsonp001@hawaii.rr.com or call Matilda at 885-9206.  Classes will include:

·         Sat., March 14 – Waimea Home Gardens Tour - wet side to dry side.  Meet at the garden—no potluck; ends at last site. (8:45 a.m. -1 p.m.)                                                                   

·         Sat., April 11 -   Work & Learn Day: Compost and Soil - at the garden – potluck talk-story from Noon—1:30 p.m. (8:45 .m.—Noon)       

·         Sat., April 18 -   Hamakua Small Farms Tour (small scale animal production).  Meet at garden–no potluck; ends at last site.  (8:45 a.m.—1 p.m.)                                                     

·         Sat., April 25 -   Work & Learn Day:  Seed Saving and Planting—at the garden – potluck talk-story from Noon—1:30 p.m.  (8:45 a.m ..—Noon)                             

·         Sat., May 16 -     Work & Learn Day:  Topic To Be Announced—at the garden – potluck talk-story from Noon—1:30 p.m. (8:45 a.m.—Noon)                                                                  

HEALING TOUCH LEVEL 1 TRAINING:  8 a.m. – 6 p.m., Sat.-Sun., March 14-15, 2009.  At Canada-France-Hawai’I Telescope Headquarters in Waimea.  Instructed by Anne Warren R.N., M.S., F.N.P., C.H.T.P. / I. Healing Touch is a type of complementary healing using hands-on and energy-based techniques to balance and align the human energy field.  Body, mind and spirit are affected by this work and individuals often experience profound relaxation as well as pain reduction.  Class will teach 10 different healing techniques for healing yourself, family, friends, pets, and loved ones.    There is a charge.  Info/registration: Anne Warren (775-9070) or email:

heartcenteredhealing@hawaiiantel.net.

WAIMEA MIDDLE SCHOOL’S LOCAL ADVISORY PANEL MEETING: =2 03:30-5:30 p.m., Thurs., March 19, 2009.  All school-community stakeholders invited.  Info:  Jacqui Hoover-LAP Chair (960-7503) or CEEO John Colson (887-6090 Ext. 225). 

IMPORTANT – MAYOR BILLY KENOI’S FIRST WAIMEA COMMUNITY ‘TALK-STORY’:  6 p.m., Fri., March 20, 2009.  Waimea School Cafeteria.  Everyone invited.  Dessert potluck welcome but not required.  Will include introduction of several new members of his administration and time to ask questions. 

PUNANA LEO O WAIMEA BENEFIT CONCERT:  Sat., March 21, 2009.  Parker Ranch Arena.  Many superb island entertainers to share their music to benefit this preschool with all proceeds going toward a playground fund.&nb sp; More info to come.  Info:  885-7166. 

KOHALA WATERSHED PARTNERSHIP TREE PLANTINGS:  8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., Sat., March 21, April 18 and May 16, 2009.  Adults and children welcome to participate.  Tools, gloves and transportation to the work side provided.  The goal of this project is to restore a native forest along the strip of land between Waiakamli and Luahine streams between Kohala Mountain Foard and Pu’u O Umi Natural Area Reserve.  Info: Melora Purell (333-0976) or email coordinator@kohalawatershed.org.  

WORKSHOPS PREPARING FOR THIRD ANNUAL TRASH BASH ART & FASHION SHOW:  First workshop will be 1-4 p.m., Sunday, March 22 and again, April 5 at Kenji’s House in Kapa’au in preparation for the April 18-19, 2009 ‘Trash Bash Art & Fashion Show.”  The show — themed “Reuse, Reduce, and Recycle” will feature entries that will be judged on how much is diverted from the landfill.  Cash prizes will be awarded.  Deadline for show entries is April 13th.  Entry forms available at Kohala Coffee Mill, or by calling 345-6322.  No entry fee and artists of all ages encouraged to participate. A series of workshops will be held from 1-4 p.m., Sundays, March 22 and April 5 at Kenji’s House in Kapa’au.  Free and intended to assist potential participants in techniques for constructing their art and fashion creations.  Led by local artists, teachers, and recyclers.  Attendees encouraged to bring their own supplies.  Sponsored byOrganizing Committee, WASTESTREAM, Recycle Hawaii, AM, Recycle Hawaii, and Kona Earth Fest.  Info: Colleen Nevins (345-6322).

WAIMEA MIDDLE STUDENTS OFFERED FREE 9 8SPRING BREAK HSA WORKSHOP’:  9 a.m. – 1 p.m., Monday-Friday, March 23-27, or March 30-April 3, 2009.  Skill building activities to help students have more choices with classes and electives the following school year. Transportation will be provided for those living in Waikoloa/Kawaihae/Puako/Ouli.  Forms are available in the school office.  Questions?  Call/email Curriculum Coordinator Jade Bowman (887-6090 Ext. 268)/Jade_Bowman@notes.k12.hi.us.

WAIMEA NATURE PARK PROPAGATION CLASSES:  Series of three classes from 9-10 a.m.,  Saturday mornings.  The third class on Sat., March 28, 2009 will be on propagating from seeds including collection, cleaning, storage, planting techniques, media care, feeding and transplanting.  Participants asked to bring a notebook and clean sharp shears. All other supplies provided.  No cost if you are willing to then stay and volunteer20time working until noon in the Park.  If unable, the cost is $10 for WOC members and $20 for non-members. Reservations required due to limited space.  Call Barrie (769-4378) or email her at bmoss1sm@yahoo.com.

NEW ‘OLAPA’ MONTHLY MEETING:  9:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., Sat., March 28, 2009.  Keck Observatory’s Hualalai Conference Room.  ‘OLAPA’ is the name of the Open Lands and Public Access Alliance which was recently formed to provide a vehicle for various groups to work together on common concerns.  OLAPA’s mission is to secure the conservation, management and protection of community greenways, cultural and natural resources, open space and public access through community action, education and legislation.  Info: http://www.olapa.org/index.html.  Everyone welcome. 

KAMUELA PHILHARMONIC’S SPRING CONCERT:  4 p.m., Sun., March 29, 2009 at Kahilu Theatre.  Free.  To feature favorites by Mozart, Williams and Bizet.  More info to follow or Google Kamuela Philharmonic.

WAIMEA HUNTER EDUCATION SAFETY CLASSES:  At the new DLNR Hunter Ed building on Lalamilo farms Road.  Covers safe gun handling, archery hunting, responsible/ethical hunting, survival, first-aid, Wildlife identification and conservation, hunting rules and regs, proper game caree and outdoor responsibility.  Attendance at all sessions required for ce rtification.  Open to anyone 10 years of age and above interested in hunting and/or who enjoys outdoor activities.  To pre-register, call 887-6050.  Please bring photo ID to the first class.  Sessions run from 5:45-9:45 p.m. on the following dates:

·         March 30, 31 & April 2

·         June 15, 16 & 18

IMPORTANT – WAIMEA COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION TOWN MEETING:  5:15 p.m., Thurs., April 2, 2009.  Waimea School Cafeteria (note location change for special meeting format with four of Mayor Billy Kenoi’s newly appointed Department heads — Public Works Director Warren Lee, Planning Director Bobby Jean Leithead Todd, Parks & Rec Director Robert Fitzgerald and Environmental Managment Director Lono Tyson.  After introductions, attendees will break into four smaller groups for small group sessions with each of the directors.  Everyone invited. There is no charge to attend or participate though a $12 WCA membership urged.  Also, all attendees are urged to bring either a cash or food donation for our Waimea food pantries.  Info: Bill Sanborn (895-1122). 

WAIMEA HAWAIIAN CIVIC CLUB MONTHLY MEETING:  6:30 p.m., Mon., April 6, 2009 (and the first Monday of every month except on holidays).  Imiola Church Meeting Hall.  Info: Sam Moniz, President.

PANIOLO PRESERVATION SOCIETY’S EASTER FASHION SHOW BRUNCH BENEFIT FEATURING DESIGNS BY NAKE’ U AWAI AND LOCAL CELEBRITY TALENT:  10 a.m. – 3 p.m., Sat., April 11, 2009.  Daniel Thiebaut’s Restaurant.  Music by Kupuka’a and a pre-Merrie Monarch arts and crafts fair in the garden including lauhala hat weaving master Margaret Lovell from Kaua’i, feather lei and other collectible arts, fresh flower lei and lei po’o, fresh bouquets and more.  Reservations: 885-2200. 

APRIL 13 DEADINE FOR COMMENTS ON PROPOSAL TO REMOVE THE HAWAIIAN HAWK (‘IO) FROM THE ENDANGERED SPECIES LIST:  Proposed rules and draft monitoring plan online at http://www.fws.gov/pacificislands/.  

APRIL 15 DEADLINE FOR HAWAII SADDLE CLUB $1,000 SCHOLARSHIPS:  For residents of Hawaii County or a student at Honokaa High School.  An essay on agriculture and the future of Hawaii required.  Info: Patricia Andrade Stout (937-3265). 

46^th ANNUAL MERRIE MONARCH FESTIVAL:  April 14-18, 2009.  Hilo.

SMALL WORLD PRESSCHOOL GOLF CHALLENGE 2009:   Sun., April 19, 2009.  Hapuna Prince Resort.  2-Person Best-Ball with established USGA handicaps.  Entry fee: $125 includes luncheon and prizes.  Entry forms and info available by calling the school (885-4388).  Deadline to enter: April 1.  Proceeds benefit the children attending the preschool.&n bsp;

‘CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF HOPE’ AT 2009 HONOKA’A RELAY FOR LIFE:  6 p.m., Fri., May 8 – 6 a.m., Sat., May 9, 2009.  Honoka’a High School Field.  Honors cancer survivors and remembers those who have lost the battle, all while raising money to fight the disease.  Teams and sponsors invited to the “Stars Are Out Tonight” celebration that also include live music, line dancing, a silent auction, a luminary ceremony, Keiki Karnival.  The next planning meeting: 6:30 p.m., Thurs., Feb. 19, 2009.  Honokaa’a High School Library.  Info: Angella Brandt, Maria Lisa Ignacio or Danica Tamaye (775-8800 Ext. 264) or email: angela_brandt@notes.k12.hi.us or go to www.relayforlife.org/honokaahshi.  

4^th ANNUAL BIG ISLAND FILM FESTIVAL:  May 14-17, 2009.  Waikoloa Beach Resort.  Celebrating new independent narrative filmmakers and their feature and short films from Hawaii and around the world. Outdoor and indoor venues makes this unique “Talk Story” film festival a favorite of residents and visitors alike. The Festival venue under the stars in the beautiful Waikoloa Bowl at Queens’ MarketPlace, the Ohana venue for family films, multiple daytime films, and social events honoring an actor and a filmmaker are all wrapped in the spirit of Aloha.  Sunday, May 17th is a special day beginning with an Awards Brunch then wrapping up the 4 days with The Best of the Fest: a 5-7pm concert by Makana followed by Audience Choice feature and short films. One dollar from each Best of the Fest ticket sold will be donated to the Big Island Food Bank.  The annual Silent Auction to benefit the Wounded Warrior Project will again be held on Sunday beginning at 4 p.m.  Tickets start at $5; Kama’aina pricing available for evening film and Best of the Fest tickets.  Info: http://www.bigislandfilmfestival.com/, call 883-0394 or email: info@bigislandfilmfestival.com. 

GOT A MILLION-DOLLAR IDEA FOR A ‘BLOCKBUSTER’ MOVIE?  Bring it to the 2009 Big Island Film Festival’s “Screenplay in a Day” class, 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m., Sat., May 16 at Waikoloa Beach Resort.  Three top screenwriters with credits from 20th Century Fox, Disney, DreamWorks, MTV, New Line Cinema, Revolution Studios and others, will teach key creative and Hollywood business concepts to students on all levels—even those with no writing experience—in an info-packed professional seminar.  Cost:  $40 for the full day seminar, made possible through a grant from the Hawaii County Film Commissioner’s Office and Hawaii County Dept. of Research & Development. Visit http://www.bigislandfilmfestival.com/ or call 883-0394 to sign up.

WAIMEA COMMUNITY CHORUS CONCERT:  Fri.-Sun., June 12-14, 2009.  Parker School Theatre.  7:30 p.m. Fri. & Sat., 3 p.m. Sun.  More details and ticket information to come. 

2009 HAWAII PERFORMING ARTS FESTIVAL:  Opening night concert – July 9 with performances continuing all month, culminating in a final weekend of concerts July 25-26.  New festival representative:  Carole Chillingworth of Waimea – email: info@hawaiiperformingartsfestival.org  

12^th ANNUAL DANIEL R. SAYRE MEMORIAL FOUNDATION BENEFIT:  4:30 p.m., Sat., Sept. 5, 2009.  Fairmont Orchid Hotel.  Save the date.  To support rescue/emergency equipment for Hawai’i County Fire Department and honor these men and women for their heroic dedication to this community.  More info – go to http://www.danielsayrefoundation.com/.

31^st ANNUAL FORD IRONMAN TRIATHLON:  Sat., Oct. 10, 2009.  2.4 mile swim.  112 mile bike ride.  26.2 mile run.  Reminder: Road closures; expect delays.   Also, please practice ‘aloha’ and use extreme caution when passing cyclists and others in training prior to the event. 

49^th ANNUAL WAIMEA CHRISTMAS TWILIGHT PARADE & ALL-DAY ‘LOKAHI GIVING’ CELEBRATION:  Sat., Dec. 5, 2009.  Parade at 6 p.m.  Traffic Advisory: Main highway thru Waimea will be closed from 6-7 p.m.  Expect delays.  Info:  Lani Olsen-Chong (936-4376).

WAIMEA OUTDOOR CIRCLE ‘20/10 CELEBRATION’ MARKS SIGNIFICANT COMMUNITY ACHIEVEMENTS:  Mark your calendar for Sat., May 16, 2010 – and plan to join WOC members and friends in celebrating the circle’s 20^th anniversary of community service to the families of Waimea and North Hawai’i, and the 10^th anniversary of community work to nurture Ulu La’au – Waimea Nature Park. The 20/10 Celebration will be held in Ulu La’au under a large tent. More details to come.  Info: Arlene Block (885-4753). 

ONGOING ACTIVITIES:

FREE/REDUCED LUNCH & BUS TRANSPORTATION APPLICATIONS STILL ACCEPTED AT PUBLIC SCHOOLS:  With the rocky economy reducing work hours and changing incomes, families are urged to apply at any time during the year to request Free/Reduced Lunch and Free Bus transportation for public school students.  Families are asked to come to the school office and pick up forms.    

ST. JAMES THRIFT SHOP NO LONGER ACCEPTING/SELLING TOYS:  Due to concerns prompted by the new Consumer Product Safety Improvement act and issues around lead and other potentially toxic substances in toys, thrift stores can be held responsible if children are harmed by items purchased there.  So St. James no longer accepting toys including stuffed animals, please. 

US CENSUS BUREAU HIRING FOR 2010 CENSUS:  Go to www.census.gov/2010censusjobs or contact Lani Olsen-Chong (936-0670 – Waimea) about possible positions, hiring and exam process and trainings. 

HEALING OUR ISLAND COMMUNITY FUND MINI-GRANTS AVAILABLE:  Applications due to the Department of Research and Development by 4:30 p.m. on the 10^th of each month or the first business day following it if it falls on a weekend or holiday.  Grants intended to fund grassroots groups without ordinary access to traditional grant sources to plan and implement community-led anti-drug initiatives, services, programs and events in Hawai’i County.  Limited to no more than $2,000.  Collaboration with other groups and organizations recommended.  Applications should be submitted at least eight weeks before the event.  Info: Laverne Omori (327-3665) or email hcrc@co.hawaii.hi.us. 

WAIMEA COMMUNITY EDUCATION WINTER-SPRING CLASSES:  A wide-ranging offering that includes “Writer In Residence,” Spring Dance Journey, Keiki Spanish, Automotive Peace of Mind, Get a Literary Agent and Get Published, Photoshop Made Easy, and An Eating Deliciously Healthy Cooking Class. Easy online registration or by phone (885-1539).  Affordable and available right here in town.  

WAIMEA COMMUNITY CHORUS REHEARSALS BEGIN FOR SPRING CONCERT:  7 p.m., Tuesday evenings at St. James Episcopal Church.  Will feature songs from 1950’s Broadway, directed by Barbara Kopra.  No audition needed, only a commitment to weekly rehearsals for four months.   

NEW ‘HAWAI’I FIRST COMMUNITY RESOURCE CENTER’:  Upstairs in Waimea Center – aka KTA shopping center/behind McDonalds.  A not-for-profit project created through Hawai’i First Federal Credit Union employees and leadership to provide financial education, job seeking support and training, resume coaching, help to start a small business, prevent foreclosure or access office computer programs.  It’s free but a membership card required and appointments suggested.  Info: Community Development Coordinator Alycia Juvik (885-6600). 

LOW-COST EAR ACUPUNCTURE COMMUNITY CLINIC:  10 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., Saturdays on a walk-in basis please Traditional Chinese Medical Chinese Medical College of Hawaii.  $15 with discount available for Seniors.  Located at 65-1206 Mamalahoa Highway in Waimea Office Center behind the Chevron.  The ear is used as a microsystem to treat many complaints  (allergies, pain, digestive disturbances, etc.), but especially is used for anxiety, stress and addictions (i.e., smoking).  The ear acupuncture system used actually originated in France and was developed by a French neurologist, Paul Nogier, in the 1st half of the 20th century, and was adopted by the Chinese.  One of many services available provided by student interns under licensed clinical supervision.  Info: Maureen McLaughlin, Lac, Clinical Dean (895-0997).

WAIMEA BALLROOM DANCE CLUB BEGINNING SALSA LESSONS:&nb sp; Mondays, now through Feb. 9, 2009.  Waimea School Cafeteria.  Instructors Franz and Joanna Weber present five week class, followed by a social night at the Blue Barn.  Lessons start at 6:30 p.m. with supervised practice from 7:30 p.m.  $10 annual membership plus $10 for block of lessons.  Info: Peter In (885-4776). 

IMPORTANT – COMMUNITY INVITED TO REVIEW SITE SELECTION DRAFT FOR WAIMEA DISTRICT/REGIONAL PARK SITES:  Go to www.WaimeaPlan.org/issues/parks to review preliminary site assessments of 9 sites.  Questions/comments: email/mail comments to:

·       ;   James Komata, Hawaii County Dept. of Parks and Recreation, Tel: 961-8531, Fax: 961-8411 and  email: jkomata@co.hawaii.hi.us; 

·         Thomas S. (Tom) Witten, PBR Hawaii & Associates, Inc., Tel:  808-521-5631, Fax: 808-523-1402, and email twitten@pbrhawaii.com; or 

·         Mel Macy, Waimea District Park Builders (a volunteer advisory group), Tel: 960-3053, or email melmacy@hotmail.com. 

# # # # #

HELP STUDENT AMBASSADORS’ FROM WAIMEA VISIT NATION’S CAPITOL MIDDLE SCHOOL

 Dozens of flowering orchids, bromeliads and other indoor and outdoor potted plants will be offered for sale from 9 a.m. to noon, Sat., Feb. 28, 2009 at Waimea Center (behind McDonalds near the cowboy statue) – all to help underwrite about two dozen Waimea Middle School students becoming “ambassadors” representing this community in Washington, D.C. during Spring Break. 

The trip is part of the school’s annual 8^th Grade East Coast Trip to the nation’s capitol, Philadelphia and New York City, for which students and their families have conducted a series of fundraisers over the past nine months.  Students also are held to high academic and behavior standards to earn the privilege of making this educational trip to connect classroom lessons in American History to the real world.  The trip is also intended to introduce students to the possibilities available beyond Hawai’i’s shores.

The potted plants that will be sold were contributed for this fundraising by an anonymous donor.  

For information or to assist with the sale – or to support student travel, please email the project’s teacher-leader, Eunice_Lazarus@notes.k12.hi.us or call Patti Cook (937-2833). 

# # # # #

This calendar is prepared by Patti Cook on behalf of Waimea Community Association (WCA).  To include community events in this calendar, e-mail Patti Cook.  Deadline for information: Saturday please!

IMPORTANT COMMUNITY EVENTS:

IMPORTANT – WAIMEA COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION TOWN MEETING:  5:15 p.m., Thurs., Feb. 5, 2009.  Parker School Theatre.  Everyone invited.  Meet and talk-story with the new North Hawai’i Community Hospital Board.  Also, join in saluting Judge Nelson Doi for his life-long contribution to this community, followed by an introduction of South Kohala’s new Community Policing Officer, a briefing on the status of Kawaihae Harbor access concerns, the association’s annual elections to be held for Vice President and Secretary and other community news.  Info: Bill Sanborn (895-1122). 

WAIMEA ELEMENTARY 3RD QUARTER AFTER SCHOOL CLASSES:  Low-cost enrichment classes to be offered – now thru March 20.  Students enrolled in A+ Program will be half-price.  Classes include “The Art of Trash”, “Comic Book Project,” “Valentine’s Ukulele II” concentrating on love songs, “Art of Fun,” “Dr. Seuss Stories & Fun, “Boost Your Math on Computer,” Ukulele for Beginners and for those who have mastered basic chords, “Japanese Bon Dance” and “Booster/Homework Club.”  Call the school (887-7636, Ext. 249) with questions regarding times and days of the classes. Scholarships available to qualified applicants. Application forms available in the school main office.

WAIMEA ELEMENTARY AFTER-SCHOOL A+ PROGRAM:  Openings available for this safe, secure environment for children offering a variety of activities from 2:15 to 5:30 p.m.  $55 a month.  Financial assistance is available. Info: Chelsea Ching (887-6097).

‘LOYAL TO THE LAND’ VOLUME 3 BOOKSIGNING:  4-6 p.m., Fri., Feb. 6 and noon-2 p.m., Sat., Feb. 7, 2009 – Parker Ranch Store.  Veterinarian-author and paniolo historian Dr. Billy Bergin unwraps the 3^rd volume of his series on “The Legendary Parker Ranch” with this edition focusing on 1970-1992’s “Agents of Change.”  Everyone welcome. 

KAHILU THEATRE 2009 SEASON CONTINUES:  Info/reservations:  885-6868 for the following or go to http://www.kahilutheatre.org/ for complete season details:

• ‘Ukulele Virtuoso Jake Shimabukuro:  8 p.m., Fri., Feb. 6 
• Mark Morris Dance Group:  7 p.m., Mon., Feb. 16
• Soulful Vocalist Angelique Kidjo:  8 p.m., Fri., Feb. 20
• Alonzo King’s LINES Ballet:  8 p.m., Fri., Feb. 27
• Pandit Chitresh Das w/ Jason Samuels Smith “India Jazz Suites”:  8 p.m., Sat., March 21
• Poncho Sanchez Latin Jazz Band:  7 p.m., Sun., April 26
• The Brothers Cazimero:  8 p.m., Sat., June 6

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR WAIMEA OUTDOOR CIRCLE’S ANNUAL PLANT SALE:  8 a.m. – 2 p.m., Sat., April 4, 2009.  Volunteers are the backbone of this event.  Setup in shifts on Fri., and throughout the day Saturday.  For those who do help, their “reward” will be an opportunity to enjoy the Friday evening presale from 5-7 p.m.  Many different skills needed including help with inventory, exit checkers, cashiers with 10-key experience, security and cleanup.  Coffee and pastries provided for morning volunteers; Lunch for afternoon volunteers.   Email Ken Block for information or to confirm availability:  kenblock@hawaii.rr.com. 
 

LOW-COST EAR ACUPUNCTURE COMMUNITY CLINIC:  10 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., Saturdays on a walk-in basis please Traditional Chinese Medical Chinese Medical College of Hawaii.  $15 with discount available for Seniors.  Located at 65-1206 Mamalahoa Highway in Waimea Office Center behind the Chevron.  The ear is used as a microsystem to treat many complaints  (allergies, pain, digestive disturbances, etc.), but especially is used for anxiety, stress and addictions (i.e., smoking).  The ear acupuncture system used actually originated in France and was developed by a French neurologist, Paul Nogier, in the 1st half of the 20th century, and was adopted by the Chinese.  One of many services available provided by student interns under licensed clinical supervision.  Info: Maureen McLaughlin, Lac, Clinical Dean (895-0997).

17^th YEAR OF AARP FREE TAX AIDE SERVICE:  9 a.m. to 1 p.m., weekdays, now 2-April 13, 2009.  For low to moderate income and elderly clients.  New location:  the State Hunter Education Building, the second building on the left after turning onto Lalamilo Farm Lots Road.  Plenty of parking and handicap accessible.  For appointments, call Marge (987-6340). 

HONOKA’A METHODIST CHURCH SEWING CLASSES:  Wednesdays from 1:30-3:30 p.m., now thru Feb. 25, 2009.  $10 fee for supplies.  Registration forms at Sew Creative on Mamane Street.  Also offering paper craft class March 4-18, and a crochet class April 8-29.  Info: Mary (775-0726). 

HPA K-1 STUDENTS PRESENT ‘FEELIN’ YOUR OATS’:  2 p.m., Fri., Feb. 6, 2009.  Gates Performing Arts Center.  Free performance of this musical production that explores the axiom – you are what you eat.  A story about a group of children who find themselves locked in a supermarket after closing time, where they have a wonderland adventure hearing foods contend for the “most valuable nutrient” crown.  Through seven delectable tunes and a cast headed by “Big Cheese,” the audience learns the importance of the basic groups with a small allowance and tribute to junk food.  Everyone invited.  Info: 885-2501.

16th ANNUAL WAIMEA CHERRY BLOSSOM HERITAGE FESTIVAL:  9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Sat., Feb. 7, 2009.  To celebrate the blooming of Church Row Park’s historic cherry trees and the Japanese tradition of viewing them—hanami – and welcoming the arrival of spring.  This year’s community-wide event is dedicated to Waimea resident Nelson K. Doi, a former Third Circuit Court judge, state senator and Hawai‘i Lieutenant Governor.  As always, will include a host of activities at venues throughout town — from Parker Ranch Historic Homes on Mamalahoa Hwy. 190 to the Hawaiian Homestead Farmer’s Market ‘First Saturday’ Celebration on the lawn at Kuhio Hale on Hwy. 19.  Look for pink banners identifying site locations and enjoy Japanese and multi-cultural performing arts, demonstrations of bonsai, origami, sumie, calligraphy, tea ceremony and mochi pounding and a host of craft fairs.  Free shuttle transportation among venues.  Info: 961-8706. 

STILL TIME TO SIGN UP FOR ROTARY’S 5^TH ANNUAL PANIOLO SCRAMBLE GOLF TOURNAMENT BENEFITS ENTIRE COMMUNITY:  Sat., Feb. 7, 2009.  Big Island Country Club.  7 a.m. registration and continental breakfast; 8 a.m. Shotgun start.  Proceeds provide scholarships and community grants – especially needed during the economic crunch.  All prices cut to encourage participation and still provide community supports.  $125 per golfer includes special lunch prepared by Rotary’s master chef Doug Carr, hilarious prize presentations, Country Western band, goodie bag, cart and other surprises.  $25 for lunch and participation by non-golfers.  Tee and hole sponsorships welcome.  Info:  Doug Carr (960-7500).  

PARKER SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE:  Sat., Feb. 7, 2009.  10 a.m. – Noon for K-5; Noon-2 p.m. for 6-12.  Includes tour of the facilities. Info: Ann Renick, 885-7933 Ext. 107.

WAIKOLOA ART CENTER ‘BIRTHDAY CARD CLASS:  1-3 p.m., Sun., Feb. 8, 2009.  Community Room near the golf course.  Taught by paper artist Vivian Green.  Cost $4 per class for materials.  To register, call 883-2804 or e-mail VivianMarita@hotmail.com to ensure sufficient materials available.  Please bring glue stick, pencil and scissors. 

WAIMEA HUNTER EDUCATION SAFETY CLASSES:  At the new DLNR Hunter Ed building on Lalamilo farms Road.  Covers safe gun handling, archery hunting, responsible/ethical hunting, survival, first-aid, Wildlife identification and conservation, hunting rules and regs, proper game caree and outdoor responsibility.  Attendance at all sessions required for ce rtification.  Open to anyone 10 years of age and above interested in hunting and/or who enjoys outdoor activities.  To pre-register, call 887-6050.  Please bring photo ID to the first class.  Sessions run from 5:45-9:45 p.m. on the following dates:

·         Feb. 9, 12 & 12

·         March 30, 31 & April 2

·         June 15, 16 & 18

KAMUELA PHILHARMONIC PRESENTS CHILDREN’S ‘TUBBY THE TUBA’ CONCERT:  10 a.m., Tues., Feb. 10, 2009.  Kahilu Theatre.  Contact Kahilu Theatre for details.  A grant provided by Hawaii Tug & Barge and Young Brothers is partially funding this concert.

SOUTH KOHALA TRAFFIC SAFETY COMMITTEE MEETING:  4 p.m., Tues., Feb. 10, 2009.  Waimea Civic Center.  Everyone welcome.  SKTSC meets the 2nd Tuesday of every month and includes representatives of Hawaii County Public Works and Police Department, as well as State Dept. of Transportation.  Chair:  Mike Price of Waikoloa (883-2918) or email at whao@hawaii.rr.com.

REEFTALK: ‘THE LONG & INTERESTING LIVES OF HUMPBACK WHALES’:  6:30-8:30 p.m., Tues., Feb. 10, 2009.  Thelma Parker Memorial Library.  Marine mammal researcher Christine Gabriele who spends her time in Alaska and West Hawai’i studying humpback whales, will describe past whale age-determination methods and new techniques that may soon allow scientists to estimate the age of live, free-ranging whales.  Will also show how long-term sighting histories of individually-identified whales in Alaska and Hawai’i have shed light on the question of whale age and longevity.  Free.  All welcome. Info: UH Sea Grant (329-2861).  

WEST HAWAII ASTRONOMY CLUB’S DECEMBER MEETING:  7 p.m., Tues., Feb. 10, 2009.  Meetings alternate between Cana da-France-Hawai’i Telescope and Keck headquarters with guest speakers and a monthly mini-talk on “The Sky Tonight”.  The meeting is free and everyone welcome.  Info: http://ws03.keck.hawaii.edu:8888/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.whacastro.com/. 

‘OUR ENDURING TRADITIONS’ SCHOOL-COMMUNITY ‘IKE HAWAI’I SALUTE TO WAIMEA’S 1^st GENERATION FARMERS AND LEI MAKERS:  To honor and embrace ‘Pa’ahana – hard, industrious work’ and to integrate cultural values into student learning and the community.  Wed., Feb. 11, 2009.  Kahilu Theatre.  Doors open at 5 p.m. with exhibits of school garden projects and the contributions of our farmers and lei makers.  Presentation from 6-7:30 p.m.  Free and all Waimea students, families and community friends invited – seating first come.  Will include reading the names of respected contributors to community’s farming and lei making heritage whose works and skills along with ranchers shaped and perpetuated cultural traditions and the unique lifestyle of Waimea that is still practiced today.  Also will include formal closing of the “Waiomina – Year of the Paniolo” celebration with dances, chants and mo’olelo (stories) unique to Waimea by a group of community dancers of all ages and from many halau.  Sponsored by Waimea Middle School, Kanu o ka ‘Aina, the Paniolo Preservation Society Education Hui, Paniolo Preservation Society and Kahilu Theatre.  Info: WMS ‘Ike Hawai’i Resource Teacher Pua Case (989-9535). 

HAWAI’I PERFORMING ARTS FESTIVAL PRESENTS 2 FEBRUARY CONCERTS:  In a departure from its usual summer classical music repertoire, will include:  

* 7 p.m., Thurs., Feb. 12 at Kahilu Theatre featuring internationally acclaimed British jazz sensation Liane Carroll along with Dauri Kennedy, Roger Carey, Val Underwood and Kyle Matsuda.   Tickets $30 to raise funds to provide scholarships for young artists from Hawaii to attend the 5th Annual, month-long educational and performance festival held each July in Waimea.  Reservations: 885-6868.    

* 5-7 p.m., Sun., Feb. 15, 2009 at Blue Dragon in Kawaihae featuring Hawaiian falsetto singer Leokane Pryor, who was born in Hana, Maui and has now returned after living on the mainland.  Pryor comes to the Big Island fresh from a trip to Washington, D.C. where he performed at a private inaugural event.  Suggested donation: $25.  Performance will be followed by Olliephonics from 7:30-9:30 p.m.  Reservations: 882-7771. 

ST. AUGUSTINE’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH IN KAPA’AU CELEBRATES 125TH ANNIVERSARY: 

On February 10, 1884 during the reign of King David Kalakaua, Britain’s Queen Victoria and U.S. President Chester A. Arthur, St. Augustine’s was officially dedicated in North Kohala.  Info: the Rev. Tom Buechele (889-5390) or event Chair Carolyn Lancaster (987-3395).  Activities include:

·        Wine & Cheese Party:  6-9 p.m., Fri., Feb. 13, 2009 to guided tours by docents through the church and historical picture display at James Walker Hall. Also, community artists and photographers are invited to display any work that is reflective of St. Augustine’s or its surrounding area.  Local artist Blake Herman will be hand painting wine glasses for the evening=2 0that guests may purchase. Calabash donations accepted.

·        Valentine’s Day Youth Group Car Wash & Flower Sale:  9 a.m. – 1 p.m., Sat., Feb. 14, 2009:  

·        ‘Mass On The Grass’ with Bishop Robert Fitzpatrick and the Rev. Tom Buechele:  10 a.m., Sun., Feb. 15, 2009.  Will celebrate the diverse cultural history of St. Augustine’s through song and dance.  A Hawaiia n lu‘au will follow.  A limited number of tickets available for $7.  Anyone planning to attend must have a ticket in advance.  Contact: Mrs. Iris Fujii (889-6769 or 895-9378).

·        Anniversary Cookbook is being published reflecting the church’s multi-cultural membership.  $10.  Copies can be reserved by calling 889-5390.

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!  Sat., Feb. 14, 2009.

30^TH ANNIVERSARY PERFORMANCE OF WAIMEA’S LADIES OF HULA HALAU NA LEI ‘O KAHOLOKU:  8 p.m., Sat., Feb. 14, 2009.  Kahilu Theatre.  Will include some of the dances that have won this halau numerous Merrie Monarch awards and earned them invitations to perform all over the world.  Some early dancers will return to perform, too.  Tickets ($30/general; $40/reserved) available from halau members or call Melissa Mahi at (640-5571). 

VALENTINE’S BRUNCH SUPPORTS CHILD NUTRITION AWARENESS:  11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., Sun., Feb. 15, 2009.  Water’s Edge Ballroom at the Hilton Waikoloa Village.  The annual “Q’uisine of Hearts” brunch and silent auction sponsored by the American Culinary Federatino’s Kona-Kohala Chapter Chef de Cuisine Association.  Benefits 2,000 Kona-Kohala children.  $45/adults; $20/children 5-10.  Tickets: 329-2522. 

WAIMEA MIDDLE SCHOOL’S LOCAL ADVISORY PANEL MEETING:  3:30-5:30 p.m., Thurs., Feb. 19, 2009.  All school-community stakeholders invited.  Info:  Jacqui Hoover-LAP Chair (960-7503) or CEEO John Colson (887-6090 Ext. 225). 

KUKIO COMMUNITY FUND GRANT DEADINE:  FEBRUARY 20, 2009.  Preference to projects that benefit West Hawai’i residents and that provide out-of-school activities for children, youth and families that contribute to increasing positive social development and reduce risk-taking behaviors.  RFP can be downloaded from Hawai’i Community Foundation’s website or call 885-2174.  Awards of up to $5,000. 

SHROVE TUESDAY (AKA FAT TUESDAY AND MALASADA DAY) PANCAKE SUPPER:  5-6:30 p.m., Tues., Feb. 24, 2009.  St. James Episcopal Church.  A traditional dinner in preparation for the start of the Lenten Season – which begins the next day with Ash Wednesday services at 9 a.m. and 6:15 p.m.  No charge but all guests are asked to bring a non-perishable food20donation (or cash gift) for the Annunciation Food Pantry. 

WAIMEA COMMUNTY THEATRE PRESENTS WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE’S ‘HAMLET’:  Feb. 27-28, March 1, 6, 7, 8, 2009.  Directed by Felicity Johnson.  More details to follow including ticket outlets. 

MALA’AI SCHOOL GARDEN COMMUNITY WORK & LEARN DAY:  9 a.m. – Noon, Sat., Feb. 28, 2009.  Waimea Middle Public Conversion Charter School.  Best to park behind the post office and walk onto campus and south toward Mauna Kea to the garden.  Gloves and tools provided.  Please bring weather protection20and drinking water.  Delicious potluck lunch and talk-story follows.  A great opportunity to garden and also help this not-for-profit community partnership which provides healthy hands-on, place based learning opportunities for more than 200 WMS students each semester.  Next dates:  Saturday, March 21, 2009. Info:  Amanda Rieux (640-3637) or Matilda Tompson (885-9206). 

WAIMEA NATURE PARK PROPAGATION CLASSES:  Series of three classes from 9-10 a.m.,  Saturday mornings – it began Jan. 24 — led by Park manager Barrie Moss, former owner of Aikane Nursery.  In the greenhouse at Ulu La’au Waimea Nature Park.  Will begin with an overview of the plants growing in the park and basic propagation techniques.  Will include a walking tour of the Park and discussion on collection, viability, storage and handling of plant material.  The second class on Feb . 28 will be on propagating from vegetative cuttings.  Will gather material from the park and discuss gathering techniques and preparation of cuttings, rooting hormones, media, care and feeding and transplanting.  The third class on March 28 will be on propagating from seeds including collection, cleaning, storage, planting techniques, media care, feeding and transplanting.  Participants aked to bring a notebook and clean sharp shears. All other supplies provided.  No cost if you are willing to then stay and volunteer time working until noon in the Park.  If unable, the cost is $10 for WOC members and $20 for non-members. Reservations required due to limited space.  Call Barrie (769-4378) or email her at bmoss1sm@yahoo.com.

WAIMEA HAWAIIAN CIVIC CLUB MONTHLY MEETING:  6:30 p.m., Mon., March. 2, 2009 (and the first Monday of every month except on holidays).  Imiola Church Meeting Hall.  Info: Sam Moniz, President.20

THIRD ANNUAL TRASH BASH ART & FASHION SHOW: April 18-19, 2009 with preparation workshops starting March 22.  Themed “Reuse, Reduce, and Recycle,”  entries in the show will be judged on how much is diverted from the landfill.  Cash prizes will be awarded.  Deadline for entries April 13th.  Entry forms available at Kohala Coffee Mill, or by calling 345-6322.  No entry fee and artists of all ages encouraged to participate. A series of workshops will be held from 1-4 p.m., Sundays, March 22 and April 5 at Kenji’s House in Kapa’au.  Free and intended to assist potential participants in techniques for constructing their art and fashion creations.  Led by local artists, teachers, and recyclers.  Attendees encouraged to bring their own supplies.  Sponsored by Organizing Committee, WASTESTREAM, Recycle Hawaii, AM, Recycle Hawaii, and Kona Earth Fest.  Info: Colleen Nevins (345-6322).

KAMUELA PHILHARMONIC’S SPRING CONCERT:  4 p.m., Sun., March 29, 2009 at Kahilu Theatre.  Free.  To feature favorites by Mozart, Williams and Bizet.  More info to follow or Google Kamuela Philharmonic.

2009 HAWAII PERFORMING ARTS FESTIVAL:  Opening night concert – July 9 with performances continuing all month, culminating in a final weekend of concerts July 25-26.  New festival representative:  Carole Chillingworth of Waimea – email: info@hawaiiperformingartsfestival.org  

12^th ANNUAL DANIEL R. SAYRE MEMORIAL FOUNDATION BENEFIT:  4:30 p.m., Sat., Sept. 5, 2009.  Fairmont Orchid Hotel.  Save the date.  To support rescue/emergency equipment for Hawai’i County Fire Department and honor these men and women for their heroic dedication to this community.  More info – go to http://www.danielsayrefoundation.com/.

31^st ANNUAL FORD IRONMAN TRIATHLO N:  Sat., Oct. 10, 2009.  2.4 mile swim.  112 mile bike ride.  26.2 mile run.  Reminder: Road closures; expect delays.   Also, please practice ‘aloha’ and use extreme caution when passing cyclists and others in training prior to the event. 

ONGOING ACTIVITIES:

FREE/REDUCED LUNCH & BUS TRANSPORTATION APPLICATIONS STILL ACCEPTED AT PUBLIC SCHOOLS:  With the rocky economy reducing work hours and changing incomes, families are urged to apply at any time during the year to request Free/Reduced Lunch and Free Bus transportation for public school students.  Families are asked to come to the school office and pick up forms.    

US CENSUS BUREAU HIRING FOR 2010 CENSUS:  Go to www.census.gov/2010censusjobs or contact Lani Olsen-Chong (936-0670 – Waimea) about possible positions, hiring and exam process and trainings. 

WAIMEA COMMUNITY EDUCATION WINTER-SPRING CLASSES:  A wide-ranging offering – from Microsoft Excel for beginners to how to make income and wealth from trading currencies, from paper engineering to making whole grain breads, a tour of world cheeses, music classes, tax preparation, CPR, etc.  Easy online registration or by phone (885-1539).  Affordable and available right here in town.  

WAIMEA COMMUNITY CHORUS REHEARSALS BEGIN FOR SPRING CONCERT:  7 p.m., Tuesday evenings at St. James Episcopal Church.  Will feature songs from 1950’s Broadway, directed by Barbara Kopra.  No audi tion needed, only a commitment to weekly rehearsals for four months.   

NEW ‘HAWAI’I FIRST COMMUNITY RESOURCE CENTER’:  Upstairs in Waimea Center – aka KTA shopping center/behind McDonalds.  A not-for-profit project created through Hawai’I First Federal Credit Union employees and leadership to provide financial education, job seeking support and training, resume coaching, help to start a small business, prevent foreclosure or access office computer programs.  It’s free but a membership card requiredand appointments suggested.  Info: Community Development Coordinator Alycia Juvik (885-6600). 

AARP TAX AIDE PROGRAM NEEDS VOLUNTEERS:  Times required: 8:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m., Mondays through Thursdays, between February 2 and April 13.  New location – State Hunter Education Building on Lalamilo Farm Lots Road, just opposite the soccer field on Highway 19.  Info: Anne Gomes (885-4560). 
 
WAIMEA BALLROOM DANCE CLUB BEGINNING SALSA LESSONS:  Mondays, now through Feb. 9, 2009.  Waimea School Cafeteria.  Instructors Franz and Joanna Weber present five week class, followed by a social night at the Blue Barn.  Lessons start at 6:30 p.m. with supervised practice from 7:30 p.m.  $10 annual membership plus $10 for block of lessons.  Info: Peter In (885-4776). 

IMPORTANT – COMMUNITY INVITED TO REVIEW SITE SELECTION DRAFT FOR WAIMEA DISTRICT/REGIONAL PARK SITES:  Go to www.WaimeaPlan.org/issues/parks to review preliminary site assessments of 9 sites.  Questions/comments: email/mail comments to:

* James Komata, Hawaii County Dept. of Parks and Recreation, Tel: 961-8531, Fax: 961-8411 and  email: jkomata@co.hawaii.hi.us; 

* Thomas S. (Tom) Witten, PBR Hawaii & Associates, Inc., Tel:  808-521-5631, Fax: 808-523-1402, and email twitten@pbrhawaii.com; or 

* Mel Macy, Waimea District Park Builders (a volunteer advisory group), Tel: 960-3053, or email melmacy@hotmail.com. 

FIRST SATURDAY ‘UNIVERSE TONIGHT’ PROGRAM CONTINUES:  6 p.m. monthly at the Onizuka Center for International Astronomy at the 9,300 foot level of Mauna Kea.  Begins with a talk at the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station off Saddle Road, then portable telescopes are set up.  Seating first-come.  Each month a speaker from a different Mauna Kea observatory shares recent observations and discoveries.  Info: 961-2180 or go to www.ifa.hawaii.edu/info/vis.  It’s wise to check on weather conditions ahead of time and bring appropriate warm clothing, drinking water and snacks. 

NEW FREE HAWAI’I COUNTY ‘CITY WATCH’ PILOT PROJECT LAUNCHES MASS EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION SYSTEM:  “City Watch” is an electronic notification system that can notify residents about evacuations or other emergency measures – including appropriate responses — via phone or email.  It’s free to all Hawai’i County residents.  Residents need to register by mailing info: County of Hawai`i Civil Defense Agency, 920 Ululani Street, Hilo, HI 96720, or http://www.citywatchonline.com/CSBSignUp/HawaiiSignUp.asp.  To register, please give your name, street address (no P.O. boxes, please), city, zip code, home phone, cell phone, cell phone carrier and email address. If your phone number is listed in the phone book white pages, you will be automatically registered.  However, if your listed phone number is on a “do not call list,” you will need to register as well cell phone users and all wishing to be contacted by email. 

NEW 6 P.M. CLOSING TIME AT ALL COUNTY TRANSFER STATIONS (except Hilo): Now through March 1, 2009.  For safety of users.  Info: Bobby Gonsalve s (961-8514). 

COMMUNITY VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: 

Mala’ai: The Culinary Garden of Waimea Middle School:  Amanda Rieux (640-3637)

Friends of Thelma Parker Memorial Library:  Carol Buck (885-9718)

Ulu La’au – Waimea Nature Park:  Carol Hendricks (885-4453)

Newborn Baby Baskets Assembly:  Angela Thomas (990-6754)

North Hawai’i Hospice (885-7547)

AARP/IRS Tax Aide:  Anne Gomes (885-4560)

FREE WAIMEA IN-TOWN SHUTTLE:  Monday-Friday – 6:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.   A 25-passenger mini-bus that includes wheelchair access & bicycle racks.  Service begins at 6:30 a.m. at Mud Lane end of town, to Kamuela View Estates, where it turns around and heads back to town-center about 7 a.m…and this continues throughout the day.  Shuttle stays on Highway 19 except when it turns onto Lindsey extension, passes the post office, turns into the Parker Ranch Center parking lot and drops off/picks up passengers in front of Tantes.  Riders may wave the bus to pick them up anywhere along the route providing there’s room at the side of the road to pull off safely.  Complete schedule – go to http://www.co.hawaii.hi.us/mass_transit/transit_main.htm.

WEST HAWAII DANCE ACADEMY:  A wide array of classes in creative movement (ages 3-7), pre-ballet, primary and classical ballet, jazz, hip hop/funk, African dance, pilates, yoga and more.  Located in Uilani Plaza-Waimea.  Info: 885-8876 or go to www.whdt.org

ULU LA’AU/WAIMEA NATURE PARK:  Open from 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily – behind the Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope headquarters building.  Plenty of parking inside the Nature Park (please do not park at CFHT).  For more information and a map, go to www.outdoorcircle.org/branches/waimea/, and click on Ulu La’au. New to the=2 0park:  WIFI coverage!  A project of Waimea Outdoor Circle.

COQUI ALERT/WAIMEA:  Report immediately to the county’s coqui control program (K aren Shiroma – 961-8065), or the Big Island Invasive Species Hotline:  961-3299.  Or, call State Dept. of Agriculture – Kyle Onuma (974-4140 ext. 22) or Tim Ohashi (933-6955). 

COQUI ALERT/NORTH KOHALA:  Call the North Kohala Coqui Hotline: 889-5775.  

VET CENTERS OF HAWAI’I HOSTS BRIEFINGS & OUTREACH:  9 a.m. – Noon, First & Third Thursdays of every month – Waimea Community Center; 2nd and 4th Thursdays of every month – Waikoloa Village Market throughout June & July 2008.   Representatives from the Hilo and Kona Vet Centers will be available to all Veterans and their families. Info:  (969-3835, 329-0574, or 960-1904)

SHARING THE WEALTH OF OUR BACK YARDS:  Do you have overflowing orange, tangerine, avocado, etc. trees, or runaway zucchini?  As part of an Urban Farming initiative, volunteers in Waimea and Waikoloa will pick or pick up fruits or vegetables from your garden that you wish to share.  These will be delivered to the Food Bank.  Call Tina Wirth at 887-1087 or email Sue Kilbride at JSJSDTC@aol.com. 

GREENWASTE DISPOSAL:  Organa Grow – formerly known as the Hawaiian Fresh Egg Farm on Kawaihae Road – is accepting greenwaste to recycle into mulch and/or organic compost.  There is a small charge but it assures more environmentally desirable disposal of greenwaste.  David M. Davenport (882-7931).

E-WASTE DISPOSAL:  Televisions, computer monitors and peripherals, cells and telephones, DVDs, VCRs, inkjet, laser and toner cartridges, microwave ovens, fax machines and copiers, digital cameras, printers and laptops – do not dump at the transfer station!  Drop off at Bayside Computer Shop (108 Kalakaua Street, Hilo – tel: 934-7748), or Kona CompuCycle in Kaloko Business Center below Costco parking lot – tel: 987-4818.  Free to residents; small per pound charge for businesses.  Info:  Recycle Hawai’i: 961-2676. 

DOZENS OF NEW CLASSES AT WAIMEA COMMUNITY EDUCATION:  For class lists, instructor information, etc., call 885-1539 or go online http://www.waimeaeducation.com/. 

NORTH HAWAI’I EDUCATION AND RESEARCH CENTER (NHERC) NEW HOURS:  Mondays through Thursdays, 7:45 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. to accommodate more community access to the facility.  Also, from 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Fridays.  Grassroots and community organizations not charging a fee may use the facilities for free as long as the space is available and during the above times.  Rooms are available with capacities ranging from 20 to 140 individuals.  The Center’s computer lab is also available for use by the public.  Membership is available on an annual basis for a fee of $45.  UH Hilo and HawCC faculty, staff and students may use the lab free of charge.  Info:  775-8890 or emailing nherc@hawaii.edu. 

DEPARTMENT OF WATER SUPPLY EARTHQUAKE IMPACT REPAIR UPDATES NOW ONLINE:  Go to the DWS website: http://www.hawaiidws.org/.  Includes cost estimates, timelines, status, location, and scope of work.  Info: Kanani Aton (961-8050 Ext. 204). 

ANNUNCIATION CATHOLIC CHURCH FOOD PANTRY OPEN EVERY TUESDAY:  9:30-11:30 a.m.  Volunteers and donations welcome.  Info:  Ann Lum (885-0879). 

FOOD DONATIONS ARE NEEDED every day throughout the year by both of our Waimea food pantries – run by Annunciation Catholic Church and New Hope Christian Fellowship.  Ditto for Hawai’i Island Food Basket (formerly known as the Food Bank).  Your kokua would be MOST appreciated!  New Hope Waimea – Johanna Reeve (885-5510) and Annunciation Catholic Church – Ann Lum (885-0879). 

HAWAI’I ISLAND KEIKI IN NEED OF A SAFE, LOVING ‘OHANA: West Hawai’i has over 160 children in foster care, and we have 2,100 children statewide who need a caring home. You can make a difference in a child’s life and give hope for the future to a child by becoming a Foster/Resource family.  Call Hui Ho’omalu’s intake number Toll Free: (888) 879-8970, or call their West Hawai’i community liaison, Linda Case (896-3829) to discuss requirements. 

WAIMEA SHELTER – HAWAII ISLAND HUMANE SOCIETY:  8 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., Mondays-Saturdays.  Low Income Spay/Neuter Program:  Applicants must demonstrate financial need, such as an EBT card or by meeting financial criteria.  Proof of income required.  Qualified individuals are able to purchase discounted certificates: $25/male cat; $35/female cat.  $45/male dog; $50/female dog.  Certificates also available w/o income criteria for slightly more.  Info:  885-4558. 

‘HOW-TO’   PREPAREDNESS HANDBOOK DISPELLS MYTHS SURROUNDING MAJOR HAZARDS FOR HAWAI’I COUNTY HOMEOWNERS:   Go to www.soest.hawaii.edu/SEAGRANT/communication/publications.php for a newly researched 108-page how-to guide to preparing homes for four major hazards – earthquakes, tsunami, hurricanes and floods – and organizing emergency supply and evacuation kits.  The guide includes information on the state’s loss mitigation grant which will reimburse homeowners a third of the cost of upgrades for certain natural disasters up to $2,100.  Additional information on grants available can be found at www.hurricaneretrofits.hawaii.gov. 

PU’UKOHOLA HEIAU LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS:  Volunteers needed fore re-vegetation, maintenance, admin, visitor center operations, cultural demonstrations and education programs.  Scheduling flexible.  Info: Chief Ranger Benjamin Saldua (882-7218) or email ben_saldua@nps.gov. 

HAWAI’I’S BOOSTER SEAT LAW:  Booster seats or child safety seats for children between 4-7 are required by law.  There is a $100-$500 fine for non-compliance.  Families can apply for a State tax credit of $25 to offset the cost of purchasing required equipment.  Info: Keiki Injury Prevention Coalition at 1-(808) 537-9200 or visit their website at http://www.kipchawaii.org/.

HAKAL AU FOREST NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE/MAULAU TRACT:  Open Saturdays, Sundays and holidays by reservation for bird watching, hiking, photography only.  Call 933-6915. 

SUSPECTED MARINE MAMMAL AND PROTECTED SPECIES VIOLATIONS:  Call 1-800-853-1964 for NOAA’s Office of Law Enforcement.

WAIKOLOA ART CENTER WEEKLY ART GATHERING:  9 a.m. – Noon, Fridays and 1-5 p.m., Sundays for adults to come together in an unstructured atmosphere with space to work and share.  All levels of experience in any medium welcome.  Waikoloa Village Community Room (next to the Waikoloa Village Administration offices).  Bring your own supplies and a cloth or plastic drape to cover your table.  Sink and restroom facilities available.  Info: Ruth Bernstone (883-3809) or Jacquie Koscil (883-9584).

MOPS OF WAIMEA MEETS:  9-11:30 a.m. first Friday of the month at Waimea First Baptist Church.  Childcare provided. 
<!–[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]–>
<!–[endif]–>

KOHALA RESOURCE CENTER:  www.northkohala.org.

PUAKO COMMUNITY NEWS:  http://www.puako.org. /

STATE IDENTITY THEFT WEBSITE: http://www.idtheft.hawaii.gov. /; Provides tips on prevention and what to do if your identity is s tolen.  Or call 808-587-3222. 

HAWAI’I COUNTY SIGN CODE ONLINE:  Go to http://www.hawaii-county.com/ and look for “signcode.”  Also available for $4 from Hawaii County Clerk.  Or, call Waimea Outdoor Circle for abbreviated summary in layman’s language:  885-5210. 

HAWAI’I COUNTY COUNCIL SOUTH KOHALA OFFICE TELECONFERENCE SERVICES:  Holomua Center Suite C-5 – across Kamamalu St. from Waimea Police Station – next to Waimea Feed and Top Stitch.   Community welcome to participate in County hearings, meetings by remote teleconferencing equipment.  No charge.  Tel: 887-2043/Fax: 887-2072.  

POISON HOTLINE – 1-800-222-1222.

‘ICE’ HOTLINES & INFORMATIONAL WEB SITE:  To report “Ice” Substance Abuse concerns:  West Hawaii – 329-0-ICE;  East Hawaii – 934-VICE.  Callers can remain anonymous or give name, telephone to secure case number for future follow up.    
<!–[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]–>
<!–[endif]–>

WAIMEA HAWAIIAN HOMESTEADERS FARMERS MARKET:  7 a.m. – noon every Saturday on the lawn fronting Kuhio Hale – Hawaiian Homes Hall.  Don’s miss the First Saturdays celebration with many addition vendors and program. 

WAIMEA TOWN MARKET AT PARKER SCHOOL:  8 a.m. – 2 p.m., Saturdays.  A great new addition to weekly shopping venues featuring locally grown and produced foods – vegetables, fruit, herbs and freshly baked artisan breads by Kevin and Kay Cabrera, hot coffee, breakfast and lunch plus art, jewelry, spa products and more.  Everyone invited.  Info: Betsy Sanderson (938-2897). 

HAWI FARMERS MARKET:  7:30 a.m. until pau every Saturday.  Under the banyan tree near the post office. 

FREE ADULT AND CHILDREN TAIKO CLASSES:  Saturdays at Kohala Intergenerational Center.  Presented by the Ryukyukoku Matsuri Daiko Hawaii-Kohala Chapter for children and adults.  Wear covered shoes and bring drinking water.  Children’s class from 9-9:30 a.m.; adult class (12 and over) at 9:30 a.m.  To register or for information: Kathy (889-5801) or Sadie (889-6298).

EMILY GAIL TALKS GOLF:  6-7 p.m., every Saturday on ESPN Radio AM850 AM790.  Info: Emily Gail (896-6780). 

RELIGIOUS SOCIETY OF FRIENDS (QUAKERS) MEETING 4TH SUNDAY OF MONTH:  Everyone welcome.  Gatherings move from community to community.  Info: Elaine Warner (885-1725).

WATER AEROBICS & WEIGHT TRAINING FOR WOMEN AT HPA:  8:30 a.m., Mon., Wed., Fri. for deep water aerobics; 8:15 a.m., Tues. & Thurs., for weight training.  HPA upper campus.  All women invited.   All equipment provided.  Pilates classes also offered daily.  Info:  Instructor Kelly Ryan (557-0949). 

WAIKOLOA SENIORS M ONTHLY MEETING:  9 a.m. on the third Monday of each month.  Community Room adjacent to the Waikoloa Village Association offices on Melia Street.  Begins with a potluck breakfast and a speaker.  Info: 883-2424.   

WAIMEA BALLROOM DANCE FALL CLASSES:  6:30-8:30 p.m., Mondays thru Dec. 15.  Waimea School Cafeteria.  Everyone invited.  Classes to feature Samba and NightClub 2-Step.  Registration starts at 6 p.m. for the first three weeks.  Instructors Franz and Joanna Weber.  Beginners welcomed, no partner necessary. Info: Peter In, president (885-4776).  .

WAIMEA TRAILS & GREENWAYS WEEKLY MEETING:  5-6 p.m. every=2 0Monday at The Kohala Center except the first Monday of the month, when they try to meet “in the community.”   Info:  Clem Lam email: c.lam4@verizon.net or 885-4431. 

NORTH HAWAI’I HOSPICE COMMUNITY BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUP:  5 p.m. on the first Tuesday of every month – facilitated by NHH social worker at the NHH Office, 65-1328 Kawaihae Road.  Everyone welcome.  Group provides a friendly, supportive environment.  Meetings are confidential, and attendees will find that in the midst of their grief, there is also room for laughter and new friends.  Info: Bereavement Coordinator Galen Schelb (885-7547). 

QUILTERS MEET WEDNESDAYS AT NHERC:  8:30 a.m. – Noon. Every Wednesday.  Led by Dorothy Badua, Jodean Dela Cruz and Mary Hinck.  Everyone welcome.  Bring your own sewing machine and extension cords or, if you hand quilt, your needles, scissors and thread.  Info: 775-0726. 

HISTORIC 160-YEAR-OLD ANNA RANCH TOURS:  10 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m. on Wednesdays and Fridays, and 9 a.m. and 1:30 and 3:30 p.m. on Saturdays.  Founded by Anna’s great-great grandfather in 1848, and formerly known as Lindsey Ranch, Anna’s is still a working ranch, famous for its stunning setting on the flanks of the Kohala mountains, its herd of prized white Charolais cattle and an expert horsewoman-rancher-and community patron.  The sprawling home, started about 1910, has undergone partial restoration and provides a glimpse of a bygone era and family who were dedicated stewards of the land, animals and paniolo culture.  Tours: $7 per person; reservations recommended.  Groups limited to 10-12 persons please. Info:  Dr. Momi Naughton (885-4426). 

NORTH HAWAII ROTARY:  Noon every Wednesday.  Tante’s Bar & Grill in Parker Ranch Center.  There is a charge for lunch.  Public welcome as the guest of a club member.  Info: President Jim Fritz (jamesfritz@kohalaroofing.com).

NEW WAIMEA JUNIOR GIRL SCOUT TROOP:  Meetings on Wednesday afternoons, led by Vera Ward (885-0385). 

DISCOVER AUNTIE CONNIE’S READING CORNER: The Friends of Thelma Parker Memorial Library have renamed the Book Nook after long time Waimea Elementary School volunteer Auntie Connie Erger.  The expanded Book Nook is a great source of inexpensive books ($1 for most hardbacks; 50 cents for paper backs and a few specials between $1-5.  Funds benefit the Friends community efforts to support the library and literacy.  Info:  Friends Vice President Jacqui Hoover (960-7503).

# # # # #