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!

Weekend Update: October 14-16, 2011

"If you're bored, it's because you're boring," is a phrase that always comes to mind when anyone utters this phrase. There is just so much to do and so much to be done. It's not that one must always be actively doing something, because just relaxing on the beach can be quite soothing.  I myself might be accused of not knowing how to relax, as I am constantly in disbelief at how my husband can just sit on the couch watching television when I can scan the room in a flash and list no less than 20 things which are on "the list." It's got to be a man/woman thing.

Whether you're from Mars or Venus, you won't be bored this weekend with the multitude of activities happening.  Always remember, KAMA Hawaii lists the family friendly (or educational / informational) events out there, so you know there's always more happening in the realm of concerts and such. Check your local listings!

Friday, October 14th:

The Diary of Anne Frank continues its run at the Aloha Theater. It's receiving rave reviews and has the cover story in today's West Hawaii Today's Entertainment Section. Showtime is 7:30pm, and only runs thru October 22nd (Friday, Saturday, Sundays [2:30] only).

If you've already seen the show, you can always head up to Queens Marketplace to catch tonight's Movie Under the Stars. "Joe Somebody" will be playing. The film stars Tim Allen as a man stirred into action by a workplace bully (Wikipedia).

Saturday, October 15th

Bring all your unwanted electronics to the Kealakehe Transfer Station and dispose of them responsibly. From 9am to 4pm, TVs, computers, laptops, monitors, printers, VCRs, CD/DVD players, stereo receivers/amplifiers, UPS systems, cameras, cellular and landline telephones will be accepted via the new Electronics Recycling Program.  Commencing tomorrow, residential e-waste will now be accepted on the third Saturday of every month. For more information, please the County of Hawaii Department of Environmental Managment - Solid Waste Division and Recycling Section's online.

There are some great sales also happening about town.  First is the Friends of the Library, Kailua Kona (F.O.L.K.) monthly book sale. From 9am to 1pm, you can support the library when you purchase gently used books, dvd's & cd's at insanely cheap prices. $5.00/bag for fiction (they provide the bag). From past experience, hardcover fiction are typically $1.00 each, while children's books can be as low as 10¢ each. Please support our library.

Great American Self Storage of Kailua Kona is also hosting what sounds like a sale not to be missed. "HUGE GARAGE SALE" this Saturday, when up to 40 families are selling items such as furniture, tools, household items, clothes & more. Don't worry about the kids...there'll be a bouncy house for them, as well as food and music!  Located right behind Target, the sale runs from 9am to 2pm.

When you're finished shopping (if you're finished in time, that is), head over to the Kmart Parking Lot for Basic Car Care 101 with Lex Brodie's Tire. Learn the essentials: a professional technician will cover how to PROPERLY:
•Check your tire pressure and tire depth
•Check your oil levels
•Jump start your vehicle
•Change a flat tire
•Check for wheel alignment issues.

This 45 minute course is part of K-Mart's Safety Event and is happening on both Saturday AND Sunday.

Have you always wanted to attend the Met?  Now you can! The first of 11 live performances beamed via satellite from The Met in New York to Kona at 1:00 pm on Saturdays from October 2011 until April 2012 at Hollywood's Makalapua Stadium Cinemas. The first performance will be "Anna Bolena" by Donizetti. It is the story of Anne Boleyn who is driven insane by her philandering husband, King Henry VIII. The opera will be sung in Italian, with English subtitles. Admission: $24; $22 for seniors; $20 for students. For more information, call 329-7133, email sscadden@hawaii.rr.com or visit Metropolitan Opera HD Live.

Brats, anyone? It's that time of the year again - Oktoberfest! Whether you're German or not, head on down (up?) to Honokohau Harbor for this year's event, hosted by the Rotary Club of Kona Mauka. Featuring beer & brats, polka demonstrations, live music by the Dave Lawrence Band, beer provided by the Kona Brewing Co. and much, much more, all monies will go to local scholarships. Enjoy this German tradition from 4:00 to 8:00 pm. $20 advance tickets, $25 at the door. For more info, or to purchase tickets, contact Darlene at 324-0069.

These aren't coffee beans!

If the beer and brats aren't enough, the 9th Annual Kona Chocolate Festival & Symposium is this weekend. From the website,

The 2011 Chocolate Symposium is a three day educational experience that brings together pastry Chefs, culinary experts, Chocolatiers, Cacao farmers, regional and national educators, and representatives of the chocolate industry together with families, chocolate mavens and connoisseurs to create a multi-day immersion in 'The World of Chocolate.' Workshops for cooks, farmers, chocolate lovers, and families are all part of the annual Chocolate Symposium in the Kona Chocolate Festival. For information on workshops, tours and other events please call Mike at 808- 987- 8722.

The evening gala is from 6-10pm at the Outrigger Keauhou Beach Resort:

Our Gala Benefit Evening hosts up to thirty regional Chefs in a chocolate cook-off competition from sweet to savory, there is star entertainment, a silent auction, chocolate body art, chocolate fountain, chocolate Chefs, wine, champagne, and beer, and more chocolate than you can imagine. There is general admission to the festival chocolate competition and all night salsa music.

Silent auction, chocolate competition, live music featuring Salsa Latinos and Cyril Pahinui, tickets $35 advance/$40 door. Find out more information here.

Sunday, October 16th.

This Sunday is all about relaxing. After Saturday's events, you'll need to.

That's me right there!
Not really, but my booth for jama designs
will be located in front of the Fish Hopper.

Stroll along Ali'i Drive from 1 to 6pm for the monthly Kokua Kailua Village Stroll.  Meet your local retailers, restauranteurs and artists (including ME!!).  Having done this once before, I really just enjoyed meeting folks and talking story, so don't be afraid to talk to the vendors!  And please, stop by my tent to say hello.

Also Sunday, "The Art of Tea" sponsored thru One-Island Sustainable Living Center, Honaunau.  From 2-5pm, certified tea instructor Taka and Kimberly Ino from Mauna Kea Tea will be at the sustainable living center for a not-to-be-missed Art of Tea class. To make it even better, Kimberly will bring samples of baked goods she makes using their tea and they are opening their farm in Ahualoa (near Honoka’a) the following Sunday, October 23rd for a tour, 1-3pm. Class fee is $15 per person ($25 with the tour) or $25 per couple ($40 with tour). Carpooling options are available for the tour on the 23rd. RSVP to hawaii@one-island.org to reserve a parking space; tickets can be purchased online at our web site.

If tea ain't your thang, try the Talk Story Tellers and Ohana Style Potluck at the Donkey Mill Art Center. From 4 to 7pm, four storytellers will enchant the audience with modern fairy tales, morality tales, peace stories, historical characterizations and personal tall tales. According to Eric Wolf, from Ohio, Winner of a 2010 National Oracle Award from the National Storytelling Network, "These stories all have one common theme to them - they teach children to have a magical, mystical and imaginative world view."

Admission for the Talk Story Festival is $12 per family and contribution to the ohana style potluck is appreciated.

This blog has officially made me hungry. Mahalo everyone!

The Great Pumpkin Patch Debacle.

If you follow the KAMA Facebook page regularly, then you will have noted there was a bit of confusion as to when the Kohala Mountain Farm Pumpkin Patch was going to be open this season.  Last year was my first year going, and I seem to remember it being open multiple weekends, beginning at least a few weekends before Halloween. Then again, my memory has seriously declined since having children, and it's a miracle simply to remember their names.  I ran across a flyer stating the Patch'd be open October 22-23rd, and dutifully posted it. "That can't be right," I thought, and a bit later searched some more, and found another flyer posting an October 9th commencement. "Much better, and this weekend too!" thought I, and set a date to attend with the whole family.

As we neared Waimea, the sky was looking rather foreboding, and I braced myself mentally, determined to have fun in a wet, muddy patch. Driving up Kohala Mountain Road, I geared up to cheer up my son, who'd no doubt be grumpy about the weather and reluctant to tread around in the rain.  So, here I am, totally pumped, watching cars pass by, thinking, "they've already got their pumpkins!" counting down the mile markers until the pumpkin patch.

Finally, I see dots of orange, gleeful. Then.  Then I notice I didn't see any people. Or cars parked. Crap. And then the sign.

Really?

No time for disappointment, folks!  Straight on to Kapaau for a picnic in the park. We'll just try again when it's actually open.  Here are three telling photos from last year...

My son with his two friends searching for a fine, or rather, decent specimen.
POINT: Don't go too late. We were stragglers last year and there wasn't much left.
This  photo reinforces my memory the patch was open more than one weekend last year.

This photo was not posted due to it's brilliant composition.
POINT: See my daughter's "Kona" attire?
Shorts & Crocs do NOT allow for great pumpkin patch frolicking.
Diva had me carrying her 90% of the time.
Now examine the smart lady behind her. Jeans, jacket, and you can bet closed toes shoes.
Layers, people, it's mountain country! 

There are some great staging areas for photos.
Again not posted for it's award winning quality.
POINT: It's windy. And there's dirt.
Wind + Dirt = Particles in Eyes ≠ Great Photo.

As you can plainly see, last year was a great learning experience and simply a dry run for this year's visit to the Kohala Mountain Farm Pumpkin Patch. Do you think they have evening hours for a chance to see The Great Pumpkin?

Oh yes, I apologize most sincerely if there was anyone besides me who took the drive up merely to be disappointed. POINT: Phone first.