State of the Blog Address.

With a heavy heart, I've decided to stop writing the Weekend Updates for the time being. I'm not sure how many people are out there actually reading these posts, but if I have caused an inconvenience to you by eliminating this feature, I am truly sorry. As any mom knows, if there were about 10 extra hours in each day, I might be able to accomplish all that I would like.

However, upcoming events are still being listed on the KAMA Hawaii Facebook page under the "Events" tab, which should make it easier for referral and planning.  By listing all the events in one location, I hope to be more thorough in finding out what's happening in the area.

In initiating the KAMA Hawaii Facebook page, it has always been my intention to have this be a community page, where we can shoulder the responsibility of incoming information and communicate more effectively with one another. "No man is an island"(John Donne) and "It takes a village" (African proverb) really does ring true.  Please do not hesitate to share information about anything on this page.

We are interested.


Aloha!

Weekend Update: November 4-6

Do you ever have those moments, days or weeks where you're feeling under appreciated?  Well, I've had a week like that and it was all encompassing. I had moments of feeling alone, moments where I've felt like a failure, and moments of feeling under appreciated, but usually never all three at once.  Yet I carry on, because I know the feeling's temporary.  The one joy I basked in was my children. Their needs are so simple - love and attention. Actually, the same as all of ours when it comes down to it. But I have the power to give my children the love and attention they require. And it's pure happiness to meet their needs and see them on their merry way. Simple.

Friday, November 4th

Uncorked at Mauna Lani, 5:30 pm.

This charity event is to benefit North Hawaii Community Hospital Diabetes Wellness Center. Event tickets include a bonus $15 discount at each restaurant ($60 total value)! As a special gift, receive a special edition wine glass from The Shops at Mauna Lani. Enter to Win 2 FREE Tickets! Tickets: $40 pre sale or $50 day of.

First Friday at The Shops


The Shops at Mauna Lani holds a free concert series dubbed “First Fridays at The Shops.” Catch live performances from Big Island talent at the outdoor stage on the first Friday evening of every month. Plus participating merchants offer shopping incentives and kama‘aina specials at each “First Friday” event. Today's artist: Mark Yamanaka. Check him out here!

"Movie Under the Stars", Queens' Marketplace

"Fat Albert" will be playing tonight! I know you've been waiting for it. Fat Albert and the Cosby Kids come to life and step out of their animated, inner-city Philadelphia world.

Saturday, November 5th

6th Annual Moku o Keawe International Hula Festival, Thursday thru Saturday (November 3-5, 2011)

The Moku O Keawe International Festival will be a three-day celebration of hula and the arts of hula, expressed in many forms. The festival includes a hula competition, cultural workshops, and a Hawai‘i marketplace.

Hula Halau (troupes) from Hawaii, Japan and elsewhere compete in Kupuna (senior), Kahiko (ancient), Auana (modern) hula divisions. Workshops and cultural classes are held throughout the event at Waikoloa Bowl at Queens’ Gardens. (808) 345-9364

Moku O Keawe brings together hālau from Japan, the U.S. Mainland and Hawai‘i in a hula competition in Kupuna, Hula Kahiko and Hula ‘Auwana group and solo divisions. Experience Moku O Keawe this year with great ticket prices:  $5 Lawn seating, $15 Reserved. Doors open at 4 pm, program begins at 5 pm.

Schedule as follows: Kahiko competition, Thursday, November 3; Kupuna competition and awards, Friday, November 4; ‘Auwana competition and awards, Saturday, November 5; Big Island Market Place at the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa. Friday 8 am - 5 pm, Saturday 8 am - 4 pm

Amy B.H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden Arbor Day Celebration, 
Tree Giveaway, and Seed Exchange

Amy B.H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden in Captain Cook, will hold a three-day event, Nov. 4-6. Among the highlights: woodworkers making poi boards, free garden tours, and a giveaway of 500 native trees. The giveaway (one per person) is set for 9 a.m. to noon on all three days, while the supply lasts. The trees will be rationed so that there are trees to give away each day. The seed exchange, featuring locally adapted plants, is slated for Sat., Nov. 5, from 2 p.m. For more information, click here.

Free trees while supplies last (limit 2 per family), demonstrations, expert planting advice, and more. Pruning instruction at 11am. The garden is 12 miles south of Kailua-Kona. For more info, call 323-3318.

Coffee & Art Stroll, Holualoa, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

A beautiful day of art and Kona coffee tastings as the quaint Holualoa Village becomes a stage for all things coffee.  The Coffee & Art Stroll is a premier marketplace with a diverse collection of artists and boutique art galleries along with over two dozen estate Kona coffee farms.  The Coffee Stroll is an annual event of the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival. Gifts, a keiki art contest, live music and more. Free parking at Holualoa School and the Catholic church.

Community Health Fair, Kaloko Storage Kings, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. 73-4864 Kanalani Rd (new industrial area)

Discover ways to feed your family easy, afford, and healthy meals. You can get new recipes for great tasting food to prepare and find local sources for it. There will be delicious food for you try too.

There will be companies promoting family activates including biking, paddling, hiking, running, and more. The National Park Service will be there to show us about the Island’s many beautiful recreational locations. Practitioners including massage therapists, acupuncturists, chiropractors, and naturopaths will be sharing important health tips too.

Best of all - It’s going to be a fun carnival atmosphere! There will be a prizes, games for kids, live music, zumba and maybe even a fire engine! There will even be live entertainment and presentations by local schools. And it’s free!

The Traveling Jewish Wedding Band Performance, Kailua Kona Library, 10:30 a.m.

Kona's Traveling Jewish Wedding Band performs the melodies popular at Jewish weddings, bar mitzvahs and parties. Featuring Gloria Blum as vocalist, with Bill Noble on clarinet, Joel Gimpel on violin, Judi Olson on keyboard and Barry Blum on contrabass balalaika, the band takes the audience on a magical journey through 100 years of klezmer music. The Blums' original band's recording is now featured on the Folkways/Smithsonian Institute's website featuring Mickey Hart of the Grateful Dead at mickeyhart.net/discography/traveling-jewish-wedding.

Sponsored by Friends of the Libraries, Kona this program is offered free to the public. For more information, contact the library at 327-4327.

Metropolitan Opera Live in HD, Makalapua Theaters, 12:55 p.m. Siegfried.

Part of the famous Ring cycle, Wagner's cosmic vision focuses on his hero's early conquests, while director Robert Lepage's revolutionary stage machine transforms itself from bewitched forest to mountaintop love nest. Sung in German with English translation provided simultaneously on the screen. Time: 12:55-6:55PM at Makalapua Stadium Cinemas, Kailua-Kona. Cost: $24; $22 seniors; $20 student w/valid ID; $18 child. For more information, call 329-7133, email sscadden@hawaii.rr.com or visit Metropolitan Opera HD Live.

West Hawaii Seed Exchange (see above), Amy B.H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden, 2 p.m.

The annual seed exchange coincides with the garden's annual Arbor Day Plant Give-Away. Farmers and gardeners are invited to bring saved seed, cuttings, huli, and corms of food crops that grow well in home gardens and on farms. Please bring envelopes to gather seed, and be sure to name the known varieties that you bring. The goal of this yearly gathering is to network seed among home gardeners and local farmers. Coming together to share our knowledge and varieties encourages home production and food security for West Hawai'i. If you have not yet started a home garden please come and meet experience gardeners, and talk story about locally adapted varieties you can grow to feed your family. For more information, contact Diana Duff at hokudi@aol.com.

Honaunau Ola Mau Loa Free Concert & Benefit, Keoua Honaunau Canoe Club, 2 p.m. - 6 p.m.

Honaunau Ola Mau Loa, featuring a Polynesian Dance Party with Te Vaka, is also the launching of a community visioning project for the Honaunau Bay area. This event is presented by the Keoua Honaunau Canoe Club and is sponsored by 'Apono Hawai'i and Pasifika Foundation Hawai'i. Wear your dancing feet! The world famous South Pacific music group, Te Vaka, is performing a FREE acoustic concert. Their Friday night concert at the Kahilu Theater in Waimea is sold out, so this is a wonderful opportunity to hear one of the most talented and unique world music acts in existence. There will also be local musicians, food, a Pasifika-style drumming workshop, a kava bar and information booths. In addition, the event will benefit local paddler, Gladi Hoagland, who was diagnosed with a brain tumor right after she won a gold medal at the state championships in the 60+ women's race. There will be a silent auction, featuring art, goods and unique services. Donations to assist Gladi will be accepted, as well. Free to the public. For more information, call 328-8721 or email acurrie@hawaii.rr.com


Chocolate, Chocolate! One Island Sustainable Living Center, Honaunau, 4 - 7 p.m.
Our third Chocolate Chocolate! event with delicious chocolate tastings, music, and art returns to One Island’s sustainable living center for a delightful sunset experience of locally grown, locally made, and innovative chocolate-inspired products. 4 - 7 p.m. overlooking Kealakekua Bay. $12 tickets provide 2 servings (including a savory entre option with beverage, or sweet treats) with additional $6 tickets available to purchase gifts items for friends and family. These are delightful, magical events that definitely twinkle! Mayan spiced hot chocolate will be a special new feature for this fall event.

RSVP to hawaii@one-island.org to reserve a parking space; tickets can be purchased online at their web site.

Sunday, November 6th


Parker School's 12th Annual Heneghan 5k Fun Run and 1k Keiki Run, Parker Lower School, Waimea, 7 - 10 a.m.

Registration begins at 6:45 am, the keiki 1K race begins at 7:30 am, the 5K race begins at 8 am at Parker Lower School. Advance general entry fee is $30 for adults, $20 for students, and $15 for keikis 10 and younger. The fee includes a t-shirt, food and refreshments. Family package: $75 for a family of 4 or more. Family registration form continued on back of registration form. Participant registrations postmarked after October 28, 2011 will be considered late registrations and participants will not be guaranteed a t-shirt on race day. Childcare will be provided for children of 5k participants. Registration forms for this event are available here.

"Kuka Kuka O Honaunau" Kupuna Talk Story, Honaunau Beach Church Lot, 3 - 7 p.m.

Danny Kaniela Akaka, Jr., will be the featured guest at Kuka Kuka O Honaunau, a kupuna talk story event at the Honaunau Beach Church Lot. Akaka is the highly respected kahu, musician, and master of ceremonies at the monthly "Twilight at Kalahuipu'a" talk story series at the Mauna Lani Bay Hotel. Stories and songs of the old days at Honaunau will be shared at this event, which is presented by Ka 'Ohana O Honaunau/Kukulukumuhana O Honaunau and is sponsored by Hui Kuapa, Ala Kahakai Trail Association, and the National Park Foundation through the generous support of Lowes Charitable Education Foundation, the Anschutz Foundation and Ahmanson Foundation. Time: 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Honaunau Beach Church Lot. Free to the public. For more information, call 640-8074 or email bnavas@hawaiiantel.net.

"Tropix" Chamber Music Recital / Benefit, Fairmont Orchid, Kohala Coast, 7 p.m. - 10 p.m.

The Orchestra of the Hawaiian Islands presents the chamber music of "Tropix", a duo that includes Brazilian violinist Manoela Wunder and Resident Conductor Philip Simmons on guitar for a French & Latin program featuring works by Debussy, Ravel, Paganini, Villa-Lobos, Piazzolla, and others. Tickets are $25, with proceeds going towards the new Instrumental Music Program at Parker School. Tickets are available at Kona Wine Market and at The Great 4-D Movie Ride at the Shops at Mauna Lani. For more information, call 808-315-0885 or email amusicfest@aol.com

As always, whatever you decide to do this weekend, live strong, love fiercely. Shower your kids with your time and attention. That's the gift which will be treasured the most!

Halloween Weekend Update: October 28-31

October has flown by. It seems just the other day the kids were on fall break pestering me to put up the Halloween decorations up. Against my better judgement, I did bust out the decoration bins, and despite their most annoying efforts, I managed to resist putting up the webs and spiders until just last week. You see, there's been motivational issues in our household this past month, and each one of us are extremely guilty. No matter the offense, it's how we deal with it that matters. We power through it. I would absolutely love to not have to make lunches for quite some time (as well as dinner for that matter), as much as my son would love not to do his homework (or my nina pick up her toys, my husband -the trash). But we power through it because it must be done. We're stronger for it and we're happy we managed to get it done despite the mundane torture it is. And how are we going to celebrate?! By chowing down some chocolate!  Happiest of Halloweens to you all, spooky mamas!


Friday, October 28th

As far as I've seen (please correct me if I'm wrong), Friday seems to be the calm before the storm. We merely have our regular events, the Wine Tasting at the Kona Wine Market (3-6pm) and the weekly "Movie Under the Stars" showing at the Queens' Marketplace. Monte Carlo stars Selena Gomez, Leighton Meester and Katie Cassidy as three friends posing as rich people in Monte Carlo, Monaco. The 5.2/10 stars that IMDb.com gave it sounds pretty generous, but that's just me. I might see the movie for the scenery however - Monaco is a gorgeous place which I had to pleasure to experience for one day back in 1996. I still remember a particularly delectable mini-quiche I ate from a bakery there, speaking the only French phrase I could remember...je voudrais (and point).


Saturday, October 29th


Saturday begins with some healthy, high energy activities to get the blood pumping.

First is the YWCA whY-Walk, starting at Hale Halewai on Ali'i Drive. This charitable event is an island-wide event to stop rape, sexual assault and family violence. Two whY-Walks will be held on the same day, one in Hilo and one in Kona.  Walkers can join Mayor Billy Kenoi and Kona walkers can join Hawaii County's top administrators.  Men, women, and children from all walks of life can proudly walk one mile in women's shoes through downtown to stop rape and raise money in support of our community programs:  Sexual Assault Support Services, Teen Court, Healthy Start, Enhanced Healthy Start, Preschool and Aquatics.


The community is invited to participate and show their support. The walk begins and ends at Hale Halawai with registration at 7:30 a.m. and the walk at 8:30.  Assistant Police Chief Paul Kealoha, Administrator of Housing and Community Development Steve Arnett, Hawaii County Managing Director Wally Lau and Director of Parks and Recreation Bob Fitzgerald will strap on their heels and lead walkers in this event.

If you're feeling more adventurous, you may have already signed up for the run at Pu'u Wa'awa'a. The State’s Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW) in conjunction with the non-profit organization PATH (Peoples Advocacy for Trails Hawaii) and the Institute of Pacific Islands Forestry will be holding their 5th RUN FOR THE DRY FOREST at Pu’u Wa’awa’a, a 10km run, 5km run/walk and ¼ mile keiki run on Saturday October 29th. This is an event geared to raise awareness and contribute to the conservation and preservation of Dry Forests in Hawaii. There are several endangered plants and birds in the Pu’u Wa’awa’a Dry Forest some of which are found in few or no other locations. Today’s threats to the forest include invasive alien weeds, wild fire, and introduced ungulates. Native tree seedlings will be given to age division winners as well as other wonderful prizes. In addition, all entrants will receive a beautifully designed shirt showcasing a dry forest plant on the front and a view of Pu’u Wa’awa’a on the back.

Maybe your legs might just take you down to the Keauhou Farmer's Market instead. Being the 4th Saturday of the month, it's Farmer-Chef presentation day! This month's highlight - lilikoi (passionfruit). Saturday at 10 a.m., meet farmer Diana Duff and Chef Patti Kimball. Diana Duff's Hoku Farm is a three acre organic farm in Honaunau. Along with coffee and bananas, Diana has diversified into other fruit including lilikoi, as well as veggies, greens and herbs. She also writes a weekly gardening column. At the presentation Diana will present insights into the growing and managing of lilikoi. Chef Patti Kimball, previously a culinary instructor for Konawaena High School, is now busy developing recipes for special diets and giving cooking demonstrations. At this month’s presentation Chef Patti will be making a macnut shortbread with a lilikoi curd. Be sure to join us as we explore the flavors of lilikoi. Yum! Read more and find recipes here.

Are you still working on your costume? The Aloha Performing Arts Company will offer a Halloween youth costume workshop recommended for ages 8 to 14, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.  It's quick and easy, using recycled materials you already have on hand at home. You'll learn how to transform cast-off clothing into a uniquely-you costume. Start gathering up old baggy clothes, sheets and pillow cases, tablecloths, big shoes and anything else you think might work, and bring them to class! No-sewing required! The workshop will be followed by a costume parade, fun Halloween games and yummy treats! If you haven't already registered, you can register online here. Class fee is $25 plus another $10 late registration fee.

The Blue Sea Artisans gallery at Kona International Market will also be hosting a free children's Halloween art day from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 29. Preregistration is required because of space limitations. Call 329-8000. Check it out and check out their art as well - they have some great work displayed for sale right now.

Speaking of art, Makalapua Cinemas is showing the second of 11 live broadcasts of operas via satellite in HD Live from the Metropolitan Opera in New York (12:55 p.m.). This broadcast will be "Don Giovanni", by Mozart. The story of Don Juan is the story of a successful seducer who gets what he deserves. It is a masterpiece with wit, satire, drama and tragedy. The opera is sung in Italian, with English translation provided simultaneously on the screen. Tickets are available at the box office for $24, $22 Seniors, $18 Students with valid ID. For more information, call 329-7133, email sscadden@hawaii.rr.com, or visit Metropolitan Opera HD Live. Happy listening!

It wouldn't be Halloween weekend without the Rocky Horror Picture Show! That sweet transvestite and his motley crew return to do the Time Warp again! Complete with sass from the audience, cascading toilet paper and an array of other audience participation props, this deliberately kitschy rock 'n' roll sci fi gothic is more fun than ever.  You know you want to, so check out the show Friday, Saturday, Sunday or Monday at 7:30 p.m. at the Aloha Theater. Tickets are $20 for adults and available here.

Chicken Skin Paniolo Ghost Stories to kick off the new Talk Story Nights at Waimea's Pukalani Stables. Hawai’i Island residents and visitors are invited to Waimea’s 100+-year-old Pukalani Stables for a new, free, after-dark series of Paniolo Talk Story evenings, a “mauka” version of Danny Kaniela Akaka’s “Twilight at Kalahuipua’a” gatherings at Mauna Lani Resort. Paniolo Preservation Society is proud to host these events to perpetuate Hawai’i’s Hawaiian ranching traditions and to introduce the community to its new Paniolo Heritage Center at Pukalani Stables.

The first Paniolo Talk Story night will be 5-8 p.m., Sat., Oct. 29, 2011 and will feature “chicken skin” paniolo ghost stories. Each of the evening talk stories will be hosted by Ku’ulei Keakealani, who comes from a multi-generational ranching family and whose grandfather and father are both revered members in the “Paniolo Hall of Fame.” Ku’ulei brings to this new program the experience of not only having been raised in and still living the paniolo life, but also having organized numerous presentations about Hawaiian ranching, cultural traditions and land stewardship – ranging from the hard-core traditional skills of riding and roping wild pipi,(cows) in rugged upcountry forests, to swimming cattle out to waiting steamships to transport to market, to the ‘olelo (language), mele (music) and related paniolo arts of saddle and lei making.

Paniolo Talk Story is perfect for the entire family from keiki to kupuna. It’s a free event and BYOC – ie, Bring Your Own Coolers and Chairs though neither is necessary. School and community groups will sell snacks and food and PPS volunteers will offer a choice of hot and cold non-alcoholic beverages including Starbucks coffee and a paniolo family favorite of cocoa ‘n crackers. At the Oct. 29 gathering, Kanu o ka ‘Aina Charter School ‘ohana will sell a warm dinner, snacks and sweet treats with proceeds benefiting the school.

For more information about PPS and its new PanioloHeritage Center at Pukalani Stables, go online, Facebook,  email, or call (808)854-1541.

SPECIAL HALLOWEEN EVENTS - Saturday Evening

Queens' Marketplace, Waikoloa

Have your keiki put on their best costumes and join the fun at Queens’ MarketPlace from 4:00pm to 8:00pm. A live DJ will be on hand and candy and give-a-way stations will be situated around the mall. Queens’ MarketPlace tenants will be showcasing their merchandise in our first Sidewalk Sale! Queens' Marketplace holiday events are always a great choice because it's a contained, controlled environment, lots of features for the keiki to enjoy (koi ponds, grassy areas & fountains) and of course, shopping & coffee for mama.

Keauhou Shopping Center

An 'Ohana Halloween Paina will take place from 4-9 p.m. The free family event will include live musical entertainment, vendors, and keiki activities such as an adult and a keiki costume contest, waterslides, bouncing castles, "scary-oke", "I-Scream" eating contest, a rock climbing wall, and more. No parking on the street, please. Parking will be available at Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort and the parking lot across Ali'i Dr. from the Keauhou Beach Resort. Shuttle service to and from the event will be provided by Roberts Hawaii. For more info, visit keauhoushoppingcenter.com

Kona Pacific Public Charter School, Kealakekua (above the hospital)

Enjoy a Camelot inspired theme as you enjoy 7 skits around the forest of the Kona Pacific Public Charter School telling the tale of Merlin, Excalibur, King Arthur's knights and more. Games, food, music and fun. Tickets can be purchased at the school. Time: 5 pm-9 pm at School is above Kona Hospital, Kelekekua, Cost: $5 for tickets. For more information, call 854-6769, email julie@ziemelis.com or visit www.kppcs.org

Lanihau Shopping Center

If you're not up for the Halloween themed events, check out the Car and Bike Show at Lanihau Shopping Center. Assuredly kid friendly, there will be costumes, face painting and candy for the keiki. This is a alcohol-free event.

Sunday, October 30th

Shake off the sugar withdrawal from Saturday evening with a Post- Ironman Sprint sponsored by Team Mango. Starting at Kailua Kona pier at 7 a.m., this 1/4 mile swim, 10 mile bike and 2 mile run will get your blood flowing. 

You can finish the race and dash on over to Hale Halewai with your pet to join in Hawaii Island Human Society's Annual Halloween Pet Walk, starting at 9 a.m. (Registration at 8 a.m.).

HIHS Pet Walks encourage pet owners to exercise themselves and their pets during these free, fun, family-friendly Halloween weekend events. Contests and prizes add to the day’s planned festivities. Walkers with – or without – pets are urged to raise pledges and support Hawaii Island Humane Society. Teams and team challenges are encouraged! Track your team's progress here on this site or join a team that is already registered.

Contact Donna Whitaker at 329-8002 or email your questions, to reserve vendor space, or to donate contest prizes. Registration is FREE! Earn at least $50 in pledges and receive a free t-shirt. Pet Walk pledge forms can be downloaded here, or picked up at HIHS’s Kona, Waimea and Hilo shelters or from many island veterinarians.

While your down there, be sure to check out the Big Island Bones dog treats tent.  Created by fellow KAMA mama Heidi Nikolai, they specialize in organic, hawaiian, and seasonal dog treats, and can accommodate any food allergy. "Homemade treats for your best friend, made with the best ingredients. Treat your Dog to some Aloha!"

If you steered clear of Saturday's events (early bedtime, too crowded, etc), perhaps Slime Time Fest might interest you. At The Lutheran Church of the Holy Trinity at 77-165 Lako Street from 2-4 p.m., this event features games, crafts, food, face painting, slime science, pumpkin decorating, costume contest, candy and spooky music. No charge to attend. For more information, call 329-5733.  

Monday, October 31 - Halloween!

Take the rest of Sunday to rest up, because Monday is HALLOWEEN!!  I'm not particularly FOR the idea of trick-or-treating the weekend before Halloween if it falls on a weekday, but I do see the wisdom of it. Maybe it's not exactly wisdom, but I'm sure some moms are behind the idea, since I myself am not exactly looking forward to the late night turning into a sloth-filled morning. The kids will be grumpy, want candy for breakfast, and we'll be late for school.  I frequently remind myself to chill out and relax and enjoy the moment, as it will be a moment lost before I even know it, but the niggler inside me knows that I, and I alone, will be the one to suffer the wrath of the children's sugar withdrawals.

Frankly, as I contemplate further, I'm not sure WHY all these special events are even happening. I mean, most of us with young children are already going trick-or-treating. And the majority of us most likely limit our children's sugar intake. So, since we already have a day designated for candy, is really necessary to quadruple our consumption? You know as a mom, it is nearly impossible to attend these events without purchasing a shave ice, cotton candy or some other sugary confection.  Just carve a pumpkin already and roast the seeds! Whatever happened to a corn maze, hay ride, and good old fashioned haunted house?  

Ok, I know I'm not in the midwest anymore, but the good news is there IS haunted house fun to be had!  Or haunted storefront, rather. 

In the Kona Coast Shopping Center (KTA, Jamba Juice), Blockbuster's old space is currently open to scare the pants off you! Sorry I don't have the deets handy, but if I can scrounge them up, I'll be sure to pass them along.

A favorite alternative to traipsing door to door to candy: the 8th annual Candyland extravaganza! Held on October 31st from 5-8:00pm at the Old Airport Field. Costume contests, jumpers, rock walls, food, candy themed scenes, games, face painting, and live entertainment, all for FREE!! Their mission: To provide a safe alternative for our children on Halloween, and to show the community that Jesus is just as sweet!

WhatEVER you decide to do this Halloween. Have fun. Let your kids have fun. Eat candy - it's a tradition. And enjoy a good scare.

Happy Halloween!

Weekend Update: October 21-23

Friday, October 21st, 2011


Health & Wellness Fair, Kealakekua Ranch Center, Captain Cook

This weekend kicks of early with a Health & Wellness Fair at the Kealakekua Ranch Center. From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. there will be flu vaccinations, pharmacist & nurse consultations, glucose & blood pressure checks.  All ages are welcome, but you must present your current insurance cards and photo id to receive flu shot. The Kealakekua Ranch Center is located at 82-6066 Mamalahoa Hwy, Captain Cook, HI 96740.  Incidentally, I love the Kealakekua Ranch Center. I don't get down that way too often, but I find they are always giving back to the community. My family has attended their Christmas & Easter fairs in their back field, where everything is FREE!  Thanks Kealakekua Ranch Center!

Wine Tasting, Kona Wine Market, Kailua Kona


If your health checks out, head north to check out the weekly wine tasting at the Kona Wine Market, 3-6 p.m.  This week's wines can be viewed here.


Oktoberfest, Waimea




Did you miss last weekend's Oktoberfest put on by the Rotary Club of Kona Mauka?  Then head up to Waimea - North Hawaii Rotary will be sponsoring their annual Oktoberfest at the Paniolo Heritage Center at the Pukalani Stables. Those attending will feast on Bavarian and culinary delights specifically prepared by North Hawaii's finest chefs and quaff a stein of beer provided by local vendors, including Big Island Brewhaus, while listening to ompah music. The event includes a costume contest with prizes, silent auction benefitting the Waimea Country School and the chicken dance.

Tickets are $45 in advance or $50 at the door. Tickets are available at Kamuela Liquor Store, North Hawaii Hospice, Big Island Brewhaus, Bank of Hawaii, First Hawaiian Bank and from any North Hawaii Rotarian. Proceeds to benefit scholarships and local charities and a silent auction to benefit Waimea Country School. For more information, call Dan at 885-6468.


"Hawaiian Naming Practices", Keauhou Beach Resort

Earl Kawaa will explore the importance of names from the Hawaiian perspective in a Puana Ka Ike lecture, "Hawaiian Naming Practices," from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Friday in the ballroom at the Keauhou Beach Resort.

Kawaa will discuss spiritually motivated names such as inoa po, names that mark events and incidents; names of winds and rains; names of tools, plants, fishes and more. Kawaa's presentation will combine storytelling and conversational formats.

Kawaa is one of five children who grew up in an isolated community in Halawa Valley on Molokai. He grew up speaking Hawaiian, fishing and farming taro. Kawaa joined the Domestic Peace Corps and served as a VISTA volunteer on the Acoma Indian Reservation and later served in the armed forces during the Vietnam era. Knowledgeable and skilled in fishing, farming, and crafts, he is also an accomplished therapist and possesses knowledge in laau lapaau and lomilomi, as well as two methods of hooponopono.

For more information on Kawaa's presentation, contact Joy Cunefare at 534-8528 or info@kohalacenter.org.


Movies and Theater

The LEAD Center (Calvary Chapel) will be hosting a FREE Family Film Night this Friday at 7 p.m. in their location at the old Hualalai Theater. Showing will be "What If", a film starring starring Kevin Sorbo, Kristy Swanson, Debby Ryan, and John Ratzenberger. Read the film synopsis here.

For action movie lovers, Queens' Marketplace will be showing "X-Men: First Class" at their weekly "Movie Under the Stars." Grab a blanket, snacks, and don't forget to grab your jacket before you go. Starting at dusk. The shopping center does provide a few chairs for viewing, but get their early!

This is also the last weekend to catch "The Diary of Anne Frank" at the Aloha Theater. Haven't gone myself, but do keep seeing the great reviews. Posted by Jennifer McCord on the Aloha Theater Facebook page: "Saw The Diary of Anne Frank today and it's got to be one of the best shows at APAC ever! Amazing job to the cast and crew. Not a dry eye in the house. Thank you for sharing the story with us." Showing Friday & Saturday at 7:30 p.m.




Saturday, October 22, 2011


2nd Annual Walk/Run/Ride for Hunger, Queens' Marketplace, Waikoloa

You have kids - you get up early. Head out to Waikoloa - The Food Basket and their community partners, Queens' Market Place & The Waikoloa Beach Resort presents the 2nd Annual Walk/Run/Ride for Hunger on October 22, 2011. Registration is from 7:30 - 8:30 am at the Queens' Market Place Coronation Pavillion. The walk/run begins at 8:30 a.m. with their runners starting. The last start time is at 10 am. All proceeds from donations and pledges will support the work of The Food Basket to provide supplemental food assistance to those in need on the Island of Hawai’i. If you are unable to participate, please feel free to make a donation on our website through PAYPAL. Download the forms from the website or call 933-6030 for the forms.


Walk for Rice, International Marketplace, Kailua Kona

The Kealakehe Community Association, together with the Kona Task Force for Feeding the Hungry, Alu Like YAPP program and the youth members of the West Hawaii Tobacco-Free Coalition, will dress up for Halloween and walk for "Rice for Our Hawaii Food Bank."

Registration will start at 8:30 a.m. Saturday at the stage area of Kona International Market. Registration fees will be a bag of rice and one must be dressed in a Halloween costume. The walk will start and end at the shopping center. Awards will be presented following the walk.

After the awards presentation, booths will be set up to create Halloween costumes; old clothes and necessary accessories will be provided for those who would like to create a costume for themselves or for a child who might need one.

Lunch will be provided to all participants by the Only Us nonprofit kitchen located in the food court. Lunch will be followed by a Halloween fashion show, local entertainment, a scavenger hunt and end with a "truck or treat" activity. Registration for the "trunk or treat" event will be after lunch at the stage area. A bag of rice will be the entry fee. Prizes will be awarded for this event, also. For more information, call 896-2785 or 769-0273.


Kohala Mountain Farm Pumpkin Patch

You know you've been waiting for it all month - it's finally here!  The Kohala Mountain Pumpkin Patch will be open for picking ONE weekend ONLY, October 22nd and 23rd, from 9am to 5pm. The patch will be hosting Kokua Stone Mana Ohana Fundraiser, with efforts to raise brain awareness in children, on Saturday, Oct. 22nd. Pumpkin picking, games, face painting, cotton candy, keiki activities and music. Bring a blanket and a picnic and drive up for a day of family fun. A costume contest and raffle with fabulous prizes for young and old will be held at 2pm. Sunday, Oct. 23rd, Pumpkin picking from 9 a.m. -5 p.m. or until sold out. Get there early, as pumpkins will sell out. Location: Kohala Mtn. Road between mile markers 12 & 13, makai side. For more information, call 345-6323 or email stacyhasegawa808@gmail.com or lmdhawaii@yahoo.com

Incidentally, if you read my earlier post, "The Great Pumpkin Debacle", Stacy was so generous as to apologize (completely unecessary) and explain why the patch will only be open one weekend:

Last year we had a lot more pumpkins. This year, I was had to cut off the water to the patch due a horrible infestation of spiny amaranth. That said I had to opt for being open only one weekend...

So get up there, buy local, support Stacy's hard work. Don't forget to wear closed shoes (and even pants for the little ones)!

Clothing Exchange, Waikoloa

A women's clothing exchange will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at the Waikoloa Village Association Community Room, near the golf course. The fundraiser benefits the Friends of the Library-Waikoloa Region. Check the Waikoloa Calendar for this and other events.

Dresses, jackets, sweaters, jeans, maternity wear, pants, shorts, skirts or tops that are clean and in good condition will be accepted. Those attending may browse around, try on clothing in the fitting room and take home what they want after leaving a contribution for the organization in the donation basket at the door. Email Vivian Green at VivianMarita@hotmail.com to volunteer or for more information.


La 'Ike Day, Kahalu'u Beach Park, Kailua Kona

La 'Ike Day celebration of culture is presented by The Kohala Center and sponsored by the Hawai'i Tourism Authority. The Kahalu'u ReefTeach team will share why coral reefs are important to the island way of life and update participants on current stewardship projects at the bay. Come and learn "palapalai wili haku", the art of stringless lei making, with Kumu Mele Waikiki and fresh coconut leaf weaving with Kumu Sam Kama and his daughter Sandee. Join in games for both adults and children and win fun prizes, and enjoy ono food and Hawaiian music too! Time: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Kahalu'u Beach Park main pavilion. Free to the public. For more information, call (808) 895-1010 or email cpunihaole@kohalacenter.org. or visit http://www.kohalacenter.org.


Lowe's Build and Grow Workshop, Lowe's, Kailua Kona

From project basics to giving your child the opportunity to say, "I built it!",  Lowe's Build and Grow kid's clinics are a great way to help build confidence! Bring the kids into any Lowe's store and build a FREE wooden project. Each participant also receives a free apron, goggles, a project themed patch, and a certification of merit upon completion of their project.  Workshop is this Saturday, starting at 10 a.m.

This week's project: Monster Truck. This kit is awesome! This "Monster" truck includes a flashing light and glow in the dark stickers!

6th Annual Hope Event, Kona Community Hospital

Kona Community Hospital's annual Hope Event will take place from 1 to 4 p.m. at Kona Community Hospital's Radiation Oncology Clinic. This event is in honor of all cancer patients, survivors, caregivers and their families, to promote cancer awareness. There will be live music, food and drinks, volunteer services such as haircuts, massage and nails, informational booths, acceptance of hair donations and lots more. It is a free community event and everyone is welcome to attend. Please contact 322-6960 for more information. Free to the public. For more information, call 322-6960, email ebryant@hhsc.org or visit www.kch.hhsc.org

The Magic of Arneleo, Kailua Kona Public Library

From 2-3 p.m. Arneleo the Magician aka Arnie Rabin will delight audiences, keiki and adults alike, at the Kailua Kona Public Library, as he has been doing for the past 41 years.

Arneleo is recognized by his fellow magicians, as a leader in the magic community of Hawaii. This year Arneleo was inducted into the ORDER OF MERLIN by the International Brotherhood of Magicians.

Presented by Friends of the Libraries, Kona this program is suitable for all ages and is free to the public. For further information contact the Kailua Kona Library at 327-4327.

My kids and I saw Arneleo at the Kealakekua Public Library earlier this summer and he played to a full house. It was quite the show, very entertaining, and my children (ages 2 and 5 at the time) were thrilled. In fact, just a few days ago, my daughter (now 3) mentioned one of his tricks, which goes to show you how memorable it was!

Family Skate Night, Old A’s Hockey Rink, Kailua Kona

Family Skate Night is happening this Saturday at the Old A’s Hockey Rink from 6-10 p.m. They allow all ages of children as long as they have a bike, skates, scooter, trike, or skateboard to ride. It’s $5 and a lot of fun for the whole family. Sponsored by All Things Creative & West Hawaii Hockey Association. Check out photos from previous Skate Nights here.

Sunday, October 23, 2011


The pumpkin picking continues at the Kohala Mountain Farm Pumpkin patch, without the fundraising activities. If you want to avoid the crowds, this is the day to go, 9-4 p.m.


Hawaii Prepatory Academy's 20th Annual Pumpkin Patch, Waimea

If you don't mind the crowds, head over to Hawaii Prepatory Academy's 20th Annual Pumpkin Patch. This fun-filled family event features a giant pumpkin patch with over 500 pumpkins to choose from, thrilling live entertainment including performances by Lorenzo's Army and Te 'E'a O Te Turama Tahitian Dance, an amazing silent auction, delicious food booths, a mouth-watering chili cook-off, exciting activities, games, and prizes. Time: 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Hawaii Preparatory Academy's Upper Campus. For more information, call 315-0591 or email smacy926@hotmail.com or visit www.hpapumpkinpatch.com.

Project Compassion, Denny's, Kailua Kona

The public is invited to join the Friends of the Children's Justice Center of West Hawaii for Project Compassion on Sunday at Denny's in Kailua-Kona. One hundred percent of tips and 20 percent of the food bill for those dining 4 - 9 p.m. will go to support the healing process for child and teen victims of abuse, neglect or those who have witnessed violent crime, such as domestic violence.

Project Compassion is sponsored by Denny's, Rotary Club of Kona, West Hawaii Home Health Services, Inc and Vakanui Music.


Have a great (pumpkin-filled) weekend, mamas & kamas!