Big Island Calendar of Events

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November

Wednesday mornings
"HAWAI'IANA LIVE!" - PALACE THEATER, HILO
Join Leilehua Yuen in this local's-eye-view of Hawai'i Island each Wednesday in Hilo's historic Palace Theater. Through traditional chant and storytelling, music, hula, and video featurettes, Leilehua explores different facets of Hawai'i Island. Topics and films change weekly as the program revolves around the Hawaiian lunar calendar, and surprise guests and musicians often appear. A few of the past guests are Mary Ann Lim, Keoki Kahumoku, Leina'ala Lassiter, Diana Aki, and Stan Kaina. Sometimes there is hula! The show also features Bob Alder on the theater's historic pipe organ, playing some of Hawai'i's most beloved melodies. Wednesday mornings, 11:00 to 11:45am, except Christmas and New Year weeks. Admission: $5; kids free. Palace Theater, 38 Haili St. Hilo. Call 934-7010 for more information.

November 1, 2009
KONA COFFEE FESTIVAL MAKAHIKI CONCERT - MAKAEO PAVILION, OLD AIRPORT PARK
A very special concert featuring Japanese halau Halau Kaleihulumamo with Mika Keale Goto & Haumana (Goto is the hanai daughter of the late, beloved, Moe Keale) opening for musicians Danny Akaka, Jr., Martin Pahinui, Stephen Akana, Aaron Mahi, Kekoa Kaluhiwa and Kama Hopkins. Food and beverages will be available for purchase at the concert, which will take place from 1:30-3pm. Admission is included with the purchase of a $3 Kona Coffee Cultural Festival button.

November 3, 2009
BOOKS ARE BUILDING BLOCKS "READ-ALOUD" - KONA PUBLIC LIBRARY
Presented by Friends of the Libraries, Kona (F.O.L.K.), this free monthly program is to encourage family literacy. Children ages 5-18 are invited with their parents to participate. (Parents MUST participate with their children; no exceptions.) Program is limited to the first 75 participants. Registration is from 4:30pm-5:15pm. Families will be separated in reading groups: ages 5-7; ages 8-10; ages 11-13; ages 14-18; and their parents. From 5:15pm-6:15pm, each group will have a designated person to read aloud to them followed by a short discussion. Afterward, the families will meet on the lanai for refreshments, prizes, and a book swap. NEW CONTACT INFO: To pre-register, volunteer, or for more information, please contact Shani Dutton at 936-6190, email folk@folkhawaii.com or visit http://www.folkhawaii.com

November 4, 2009
HAWAII HOMEOWNERSHIP CENTER ORIENTATION - KAILUA-KONA
Are tough economic times causing you to put your financial plans on hold? Hawaii HomeOwnership Center is a non-profit organization whose mission is educating families in financial literacy. Home buyer education and counseling is also provided. This is a free presentation open to the public. Call to reserve a space at 930-7661. Time: 6-7 PM at Mayor's Office Conference Room, Kailua- Kona. For more information, call 930-7614, email hanah@hihomeownership.org or visit www.hihomeownership.org

November 4, 2009
"FRIENDS OF TURKEY" COOKING CLASS - HALE HALEWAI, KAILUA-KONA
Come to this cooking demonstration class, which is presented thru the County of Hawaii Dept. of Parks and Recreation, Culture and Arts, to learn to make recipes that go with Thanksgiving turkey. Menu includes Fresh Cranberry Relish, Sausage Pear Stuffing, Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes, and Tart Cherry-Apple Crunch. You will taste every dish and go home with recipes. Time: 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM. Cost: $15. For information, and to register, call 961-8706 or email greengoddessgourmethawaii@gmail.com

November 4-8, 2009
4th ANNUAL MOKU O KEAWE INTERNATIONAL HULA FESTIVAL - WAIKOLOA BEACH RESORT
The Big Island's newest hula competition will feature a 4 day celebration of hula and Hawaiian culture, with hula competitions, workshops, live Hawaiian music by some of Hawaii's top entertainers, and a marketplace of traditional and contemporary arts and crafts available to the public. The Opening Ceremony concert features a Hawaiian music legend. Workshops in hula and related arts will be offered by masters of the art during the festival. QueenÕs Bowl at Waikoloa Beach Resort. For more info, 345-9364 or visit http://www.mokuokeawe.org

November 5, 2009
KONA WOMEN'S WORKSHOP: BRINGING ENERGY AND BALANCE BACK TO YOUR HOME
Local Interior Designer, Tina Kitchens, will give an hour and a half class discussion about how to bring balance and order into your home as well as your life. using three easy steps to apply to any space in your home and turn it into one that nurtures you and brings energy flowing into your life. Time: 5:30pm to 7:00pm at Hale Halawai (back classroom), Alii Dr., Kailua-Kona. Cost: $10. Please call Bert at County Culture and Art Department to register at (808) 961-8707. For more information, call (808) 961-8706, email tkit@hawaii.rr.com or visit www.KonaWomensWorkshop.com

November 6, 2009
NATURE PHOTOGRAPHY STROLLS WITH JACK JEFFREY - HAWAII VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK
Bring your camera or binoculars for this hour-long easily-navigable stroll along the rim of Kilauea caldera with renowned wildlife biologist/photographer Jack Jeffrey. Jeffrey communicates the ecology and geology of the region while offering tips on how to capture it all on camera. Meet at Volcano Art Center Gallery, located next to the Visitor Center. Sign-up for 9am or 10:15am on a first-come, first-served basis. No pre-registration is offered. Free, however park entrance fees apply (donations welcome at VAC Gallery). Call (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org for more info.

November 6, 2009
BLACK & WHITE NIGHT - HILO
Downtown Hilo's biggest strolling party with multiple free live jazz music venues, stores opening late serving up specials, sales, free food samples, author and artist receptions, and much more, from one end of town to the other. Everyone dresses in black and white - some dress down in shorts and T-shirts &some dress up in gowns and suits to enter the "Best Dressed Black & White Contest" for cash prizes. Young men in tuxedoes will be walking around and serving as Aloha Ambassadors with maps, schedules of events and information or visit the Hilo Visitor's Information Center at the Mo'oheau Bus Terminal across from the Hilo Farmers Market. The Downtown Swing Band will play for the After Hours party for ballroom and jitterbug dancing fans. For more information, call (808) 933-9772, email amooninfo@bigisland.com or visit www.poshfestivals.com

November 6, 2009
JOHN CRUZ IN CONCERT - ALOHA THEATRE, KAINALIU
Kona's funky old style theatre welcomes John back for what is sure to be another memorable performance.ÊGet tickets early; his last show there was sold out - standing room only. He'll have a small band with him for a fantastic night of music. Box office opens at 6:30pm; doors open at 7pm.Ê$35 reserved/$25 general admission. For more info, call 285-5778 or visit http://www.alohatheatre.com

November 6-15, 2009
KONA COFFEE CULTURAL FESTIVAL
Hawaii's oldest food fest features over 30 events, kicking off with the International Lantern Parade (6:30pm on Nov. 6th). There will be a variety of events thruout the festival, including art exhibits, tastings, a cupping competition, a coffee picking competition, coffee recipe cooking contest, farm tours, sporting events and more. For more info call: 808/326-7820 or visit http://www.konacoffeefest.com

November 7, 2009
HOLUALOA VILLAGE COFFEE TASTING AND ART STROLL
The Coffee Stroll is an annual event of the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival. Nearly two dozen farms' coffee will be featured at Holualoa's unique art galleries and shops. Gifts, a keiki art contest, live music and more. Free parking at Holualoa School and the Catholic church. 9 am to 3 pm.

November 7, 2009
"WAITER, THERE IS A SINGER IN MY SOUP" DINNER THEATER/CABARET - PAHOA
Dinner theater music and cabaret events featuring popular Broadway hits presented by the Puna Men's Chorus. Catered by Healthnut Gourmet. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at Jungle Love (Pahoa). Time: 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM at S.P.A.C.E. (Seaview Estates - Hwy. 137), Pahoa. Cost: $25.00. For more information, call (808) 965-0572 or email kailimoku@earthlink.net

November 7, 2009
ARBOR DAY PLANT GIVEAWAY/SEED EXCHANGE - AMY GREENWELL BOTANICAL GARDEN, CAPTAIN COOK
On Arbor Day, native trees and shrubs (one per person) will be given away from 8:30 a.m till noon, or while supply lasts. There will be a free 10 a.m. presentation by arborist Curt Eames, "Pruning and Training Your Native Trees and Shrubs". (Volunteer helpers needed.) This year is a transition to a fall Seed Exchange, so a mini-Seed Exchange program will be held at the Garden in conjunction with Arbor Day. Come early for your free tree and arbor program, and stay for some seed knowledge and a seed exchange:
11am-noon, Seed Conservation; Winter Crops for Seed Savings. Nancy Redfeather will lead the discussion. Everybody is invited to take part.
Ê 12 noon to 1:00 pm. Potluck and seed sharing. Please bring your own envelopes for collecting seed and something to sit on (blanket, mat, chair, etc.)
Amy B.H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden is located in Captain Cook on HawaiÔi Island, 12 miles south of Kailua-Kona on Mamalahoa Hwy, just south of mile-marker 110. Ph: 808-323-3318; website: www.bishopmuseum.org/greenwell

November 7-8, 2009
CAMP POHAI MALUHIA: FALL YOUTH BEREAVEMENT CAMP - HAWAII VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK
A supportive, open, and safe environment for youth to enjoy typical activities of camp as they work with professionals to share their feelings and learn new ways to cope with loss - at Kilauea Military Camp in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Pre-registration for camp by October 16 is required; space is limited. Camp Pohai Maluhia (Encircling Peace) is a Community Partnership Project provided by Hospice of Hilo, Queen Lili'uokalani Children's Center, the Hawaii Island Bereavement Network, and the Hawaii Island United Way. Time: All weekend. Cost: $25 per family; scholarship available. For information/application forms, call 808-969-1733, email hospice@hospiceofhilo.org or visit www.hospiceofhilo.org

November 10, 2009
"SAVING KAHALU'U BAY" PRESENTATION - KONA PUBLIC LIBRARY
With more than 400,000 users a year, Kahalu'u Bay's coral reef is threatened and the beach has fallen into disrepair and overuse. The Kahalu'u Bay Project has more than 390 trained volunteers and over three dozen businesses working to bring back the cultural, natural, and social significance of this area. From 5:30-6:30pm, Cindi Punihaole, community outreach and volunteer coordinator with The Kohala Center, which manages the Kahalu'u Bay Project, will describe how to start a ReefTeach Program in your area, discuss how businesses can Adopt-a-Day at Kahalu'u Bay; the Bay Concert benefit; Outreach ReefTeach training for elementary, intermediate and secondary schools; water quality monitoring by the Citizen Science Program at Kahalu'u, and how volunteers can help educate visitors at the Bay. For more information, contact Punihaole at cpunihaole@kohalacenter.org or 808/895-1010. Sponsored by Friends of the Libraries, Kona, this program is offered free to the public.

November 12, 2009
ADVANCE HEALTH CARE DIRECTIVE WORKSHOP - HILO
Start the conversation. Learn how Advance Care Directives (Living Wills) allow you to give written instructions about the medical care you want to receive. All participants will receive a free copy of the Hawaii Advance Health Care Directive. Pease call 969-1733 to register. Free. Time: 5:00 to 6:00 PM at Hospice of Hilo, 1011 Waianuenue Ave., Hilo. For information, call 808-969-1733, email hospice@hospiceofhilo.org or visit www.hospiceofhilo.org

November 13, 2009
"SISTAH" ROBI KAHAKALAU BENEFIT CONCERT - MAUNA KEA BEACH HOTEL
"Sistah" Robi Kahakalau will perform at 5:30pm in a concert benefiting the Hamakua Music Festival. Doors to open at 5pm. Robi's backup band is the well known Hawaiian band Ka'u. There will be an open bar and snacks available for purchase. VIP seats are $49 and general seating is $39. Tickets are available online at or www.hamakuamusicfestival.org or www.hawaiiperformingartsfestival.org or by phone at the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel at 882-7222, x5708. For more information, call 333-7378.

November 13-15, 2009
6th ANNUAL BIG ISLAND 'UKULELE GUILD SHOW
The 6th Annual Big Island 'Ukulele Guild Show will take place on Friday, November 13 through Sunday, November 15, 2009 at the Kona Inn Shopping Village on Alii Drive (northern end, makai side), just south of Hulihe'e Palace. The show will feature handmade 'ukulele built by Guild members as well as vintage and "unique" ukes. There will also be a display of the building process to show how an 'ukulele is made. Also on display will be this year's instruments built for the 'Ukuleles for Young Musicians project. The project's goal is to get a ukulele into the hands of a needy child who is studying 'ukulele. This year, the Guild will be giving out around 12 handmade Koa 'ukulele. The hours of the show are Friday and Saturday from 10:00am to 9:00pm, and Sunday from 10:00am to 7:00pm. A reception and kanikapila (group jam) will be hosted by the Guild on Saturday evening from 6:00pm to 9:00pm. The Big Island 'Ukulele Guild is a group of 'ukulele builders and enthusiasts from the Big Island of Hawaii that is dedicated to the promotion of 'ukulele building. For further information, email info@bigislandukuleleguild.org or contact Mark Bilan at (808)640-9492.

November 14, 2009
RECYCLE, REUSE AND REDUCE RUMMAGE SALE - CAPTAIN COOK
At the Amy B.H. Greenwell Garden Market Field, from 8am-1pm. Find gently used housewares, clothing, tools, books, toys, furniture, and more! Food, and live music by the SKEA 'Ukulele Group. A portion of the proceeds will go to the Amy B.H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden. For more info, or to reserve your vendor spot, call Tim at 328-8797 or stop by the South Kona Green Market Info booth on Sundays from 9am-1pm.

November 14, 2009
5th ANNUAL DRUM AND PERCUSSION FESTIVAL - PALACE THEATER, HILO
Bare & Core Expression will present its 5th Annual Drum & Percussion Festival on Saturday, November 14, 2009 from 6-9:30p.m. at Palace Theater. The production will showcase various styles of traditional and non-traditional drum and percussion performance groups, such as Hawaiian, Latin, Samba, Asian, Caribbean, African, European and more. The featured artists and groups are from the community, sharing their passion for music and dance and the multicultural facets of the Hawaiian community. Advance purchased tickets are $10; $15 at the door for general admission; $12 students/seniors. Advance tickets are available for purchase at Basically Books, Keaau Natural Foods and online at www.bareandcore.org. For more information, contact Bonnie Kim at 333-2730 or email artsforall-hawaii@hotmail.com

November 14-15, 2009
4th ANNUAL MAKALEI AMATEUR GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP
36-Hole Individual Stroke Play. The Low Gross score in the Championship Flight determines the overall tournament champion. Entry Fee includes two tournament rounds, daily tee prizes, Saturday Player Party, Sunday Continental Breakfast and Awards Luncheon. Event Sponsorship includes tee sign, recognition on the tournament sponsor board, and one complimentary practice round. Final Entry Deadline-November 8, 2009. Time: 800 AM to 4:00 PM at Makalei Golf Club, Kailua-Kona. Cost: $160/Club Members $135. For information, call 808/325-6625 or email kevinginoza@hawaiiantel.net or visit www.makalei.com

Novemer 14, 2009
BOOK SALE - KONA PUBLIC LIBRARY
The Book Sale will be from 9 AM to 1 PM on the lanai of the Kailua-Kona Library. Funds from sales help support the needs of Kona libraries, with funding that includes educational and entertainment programs, community summer reading programs, visiting authors, magazine subscriptions, CD's, DVD's and new book purchases. Volunteers are welcome; if you find yourself willing and able, please email FOLK@folkhawaii.com or call 323-2117. For information call 328-1666 or email FOLK@folkhawaii.com or visit www.folkhawaii.com

November 14, 2009
"VOICES FOR HOSPICE" BENEFIT - KEA'AU
A "fun"-raiser benefiting Hospice of Hilo at the Kea'au High school Cafeteria on November 14, 2009, from 9am - 3pm. Everyone is invited to join in a day of fun for the whole family! Music! Good food! Craft fair! Games! Face painting! AND much more for the whole family to enjoy. If you're interested in having a craft or food booth at this event please contact Hospice of Hilo at 808/969-1733 or email voicesforhospice@gmail.com. Visit www.hospiceofhilo.org for more info.

November 14 - December 7, 2009
"BID FOR HAWAII" ON-LINE AUCTION - KONA-KOHALA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE FUNDRAISER
This on-line auction offers opportunities to purchase artwork, merchandise, & tour and restaurant offerings, at the click of your mouse. ÊNew auction items are being accepted daily, so keep checking to see what may fill your needs on your holiday shopping list. Support Hawaii's local merchants and your Chamber of Commerce, while possibly saving money on some great purchases - a "Win-Win" for everyone! To register, or to browse the offerings, visit www.bidforhawaii.cmarket.com. ÊIf you'd like to be a part of this auction and have an item to donate, please contact the website for more information.

November 15, 2009
"KOKUA KAILUA" HULIHE'E PALACE MONTHLY SUNDAY CONCERT SERIES AND VILLAGE STROLL - KAILUA-KONA
Free Hawaiian Music Concert featuring the Merrie Monarchs men's glee club and the Hawaii County band, with hula by the halau of Etua Lopez on the Palace's South Lawn at 4 p.m., presented by the Daughters of Hawaii. Bring your own beach mat or chair. Before and after the Concert, stroll thru Kailua Village (the Stroll starts at 1pm & goes till 6pm), enjoy outdoor cafe's and restaurants, local musicians & artists. Special kama'aina pricing at participating restaurants & merchants. Stroll sponsored by the Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce, Destination Kona Coast, Kailua Village Business Improvement District, and Kailua Village Merchants Association. For more info about the Palace concert, email hulihee@ilhawaii.net. For info about the Village Stroll, email info@kona-kohala.com

November 15 & 16, 2009
8th ANNUAL GALA PARTY AND GOLF CLASSIC BENEFIT AT HOKULIA
Held at the exclusive Jack Nicklaus-designed Hokulia Golf Club in Kealakekua, the proceeds of the fundraiser will go directly toward the Adopt a Room Project at Kona Community Hospital. The Gala party will start at 5pm and will feature a beautiful sunset dinner provided by Paradise Gourmet Catering, silent and live auctions including items by renowned local artists, and a concert by the internationally known Makaha Sons. Limited seating is available, so early reservations are recommended. Tickets are $250 per guest. For more information, call 808-322-4587 or email info@khfhawaii.org or visit www.khfhawaii.org

November 17, 2009
KONA PUBLIC LIBRARY BOOK CLUB MEETING
The Kona Library Book Club will meet on November 17th, at 11:00 AM on the lanai of the library. The selection for November is "Three Cups of Tea: One Man's Mission to Promote Peace . . . One School at a Time", by Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin. This is the story of one man's efforts to address poverty, overcome cultural divides, and educate girls in Pakistan and Afghanistan. Light refreshments will be served. New attendees are invited to become members of both the Book Club and Friends of the Libraries, Kona, (F.O.L.K.) Free to the public. For more information, call 325-5445, email folk@folkhawaii.com or visit www.folkhawaii.com

November 17, 2009
"TALK TOURISM" LUNCHEON - ROYAL KONA RESORT, KAILUA-KONA
November 17th at 12 pm, featuring Mayor Billy Kenoi, who will be sharing information about his mission of promoting Big Island Tourism. Bring your questions and suggestions! Cost is $25 for members and $30 for non-members, and includes a delicious lunch at the Royal Kona Resort's Alii Surf room. For more information visit www.destinationkonacoast.com or call Jenica at 328-0614. Reservations must be made by November 15th, as space is limited.

November 17, 2009
KONA TOWN MEETING - MAKAEO PAVILION, OLD AIRPORT PARK, KAILUA-KONA
The plans for creating new parks and improving existing parks in West Hawaii will be the subject of the Kona Town Meeting, held on Tuesday, November 17th from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at the Makaeo Events Pavilion at the Old Airport Park. Guest speakers will be Bob Fitzgerald, Director of County Parks and Recreation, who will speak about the Old Kona Airport Park (Makaeo) redesign, a timeline for building the parks, and how we will get the funding to build the park facilities. Craig "Bo" Kahui, Executive Director of La'i'opua 2020, will give an update on obtaining the land for the West Hawaii Regional Sports Park in Kealakehe. Andy Smith, West Hawaii Liaison for Governor Linda Lingle will speak about the Department of Land and Natural Resources Parks Renaissance Program. Fred Cachola, who served on the Federal Advisory Commission that created Kaloko- Honokohau and Kalaupapa National Parks. Mr. Cachola will speak on the Blue (ocean) Trail and the Brown (land) Trail, which is the 175-mile long Ala Kahakai trail. David Hirt, Legislative Aide for Kelly Greenwell, will speak on Councilmember Greenwell's plan for West Hawaii's parks. Kona Town Meetings are presented by Community Enterprises, a non-partisan, non-profit organization, to provide vital information on community concerns to Kona citizens. Light refreshments will be served. Time: 6 PM to 8 PM at Makaeo Pavilion, Old Airport Park, Kailua Kona. Free to the public. Please call Debbie Hecht at 989-3222 for more information.

November 18, 2009
"GROWING A WINTER GARDEN" WORKSHOP - KONA OUTDOOR CIRCLE
Bonnie Perata of Earthly Delights Farm teaches about what edible plants grow well in Kona's Winter. Time: 6pm to 8:30pm. $30 members; $45 non-members. For more information, call 329-7286, email koc@konaoutdoorcircle.org or visit www.konaoutdoorcircle.org

November 18, 2009
"HOLIDAY PARTY PUPUS" COOKING CLASS - HALE HALEWAI, KAILUA-KONA
Learn to make some great pupus that are perfect for bringing to holiday parties. You will learn to make Pear Gorgonzola Butter, Black Bean Dip, Shrimp Cornbread Muffins, and Garden Ranch Pizza. Come hungry and ready to taste these delicious pupus! Please call or email to register for this class, which is presented thru the County of Hawaii Dept. of Parks and Recreation, Culture and Arts. Time: 5:30pm-7:00pm. Cost: $15. For information, and to register, call 961-8706 or email greengoddessgourmethawaii@gmail.com

November 19, 2009
KECK OBSERVATORY PUBLIC LECTURE - WAIMEA
W. M. Keck Observatory presents Dr. David James University of Hawaii at Hilo Hōkū Ke'a telescope. In his presentation, "HULA with the New UHH 0.9-meter Telescope", Dr. James will discuss how UH students will receive an innovative get your hands dirty approach to research-based astronomy education and professional development. This special presentation is part of the 2009 Maunakea Directors Lecture Series commemorating the International Year of Astronomy. Time: 7:00 PM to 8:15 PM at Hualalai Learning Theater, Keck Observatory Headquarters, Waimea. Free to the public. For more information, call 808.881.3827, email ayeager@keck.hawaii.edu or visit keckobservatory.org

November 19, 2009
WEST HAWAII FISHERIES COUNCIL MEETING - KAILUA-KONA
A monthly meeting of the West Hawaii Fisheries Council to create plans to preserve Hawaii Island fisheries. Time: 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM at Hawaii Big Game Fishing Club, Kailua Kona. Cost: Free to the public. For information call 808/987-2171 or email marnih@hawaiiantel.net

November 20, 2009
MONO-THON EXHIBITION OPENING - DONKEY MILL ART CENTER
Mono-thon is a seven-month long grassroots fundraising project, designed to promote and educate the community about hand-pulled prints. The Holualoa Foundation for Arts and Culture has invited a diverse group of people to create beautiful prints as a new means of expression. View the new works born here in our community, while enjoying complimentary drinks and refreshments - and let the final bidding take place! Time: 6:00-9:00 PM at Donkey Mill Art Center, Holualoa. Free to the public. For more information, call 322-3362, email hfac.dmac@hawaiiantel.net or visit www.donkeymillartcenter.org

November 20-21, 2009
3rd ANNUAL "E MAU ANA KA HULA" CELEBRATION - OUTRIGGER KEAUHOU BEACH RESORT
Friday, Nov. 20th, from 1 pm-8:30 pm & Saturday, Nov. 21st, 8 am -5 pm; free. A tribute to the "Merrie Monarch" King David Kalakaua, with a celebration of hula traditions as presented by Kumu Hula and students from Hawai'i Island, Japan, and Europe including the Halau of Kuma Bobo Palacat, Kumu Keoni Atkinson, Kumu Meleana Manuel, Kumu Rayleen Lancaster, Kumu Wayne Takemoto, Kumu Bulla Kailiwai, Kumu Aloha Victor, Kumu Hulali Covington, Na Kumu Nani Lim & Leialoha Lim-Amina, Kumu Ki'iwaikapu Hoapili, Kumu 'Aulani Young, and Kumu Ulalia KaÕai-Berman. Each school will present their art of style and tradition of hula with either hula kahiko (ancient) or hula 'auana (modern) styles of dance, showcasing the best integrity and quality of traditional hula steps, expressions, creativity, adornments with costumes and stories that support the hula traditions. The event is non-competitive and a true expression of the fine art of hula as it is practiced in todayÕs world.Mistress of Ceremonies will be. KAPA 99.1's Kumu Ka'ea Alapa'i. Vendors will be featuring quality handmade Hawaiian items, and ono food will be available too! Chairs will be provided, but lawn chairs and mats are welcome; no coolers please. Admission is free, so bring the family and share in the joy of hula! On Friday Nov 20, hula workshops will be held at the Keauhou Beach Resort ballroom. The public is invited to attend: 1-3pm: hula kahiko with Kumu Aloha Victor.
3:30-5:30pm: a lecture workshop on the hula Goddess Laka and hula pahu (kahiko) with Kumu Keala Ching.
6:30 pm Ð 8:30 pm: hula 'auana with Loea Kawaikapuokalani Hewett.
$30 fee includes all three workshops. Space is limited; please register by email: mkeala@gmail.com, or call 355-8889.

November 20-22, 2009
"TALKING CIRCLE" BIG ISLAND INDIGENOUS FILM FESTIVAL - PALACE THEATRE, HILO
Inaugural three-day festival of films with a different perspective of the world by Native Americans, Native Hawaiians and First Nations media makers. For additional information and screening times, call (808) 557-8607 or visit www.hilopalace.com or www.talkingcirclefilmfestival.com

NOV 21, 2009
HOSPICE CIRCLE OF SUPPORT - WAIMEA
Have you lost a loved one recently? Join Circle of Support, a bereavement group in celebration of life, sponsored by North Hawaii Hospice. Ono food, friends, activities, laughter, and talk story. Time: 9:30 AM to 2:30 PM at Anna Ranch, Waimea. Cost: Free to the public. To RSVP, or for more, information call 885-7547, email nhh.office@hawaiiantel.net or visit www.northhawaiihospice.org

November 21, 2009
"XERISCAPE GARDENING" WORKSHOP - KONA OUTDOOR CIRCLE
Plan for the dry season by planting low maintanence plants. Get a guided tour of the beautiful Pua Mau Place to see successful Xeriscape Gardening in place. Time: 9am to 1pm. $30 members; $45 non-members. For more information, call 329-7286, email koc@konaoutdoorcircle.org or visit www.konaoutdoorcircle.org

November 21, 2009
13th ANNUAL ARC OF KONA BAZAAR FUNDRAISER - KEALAKEKUA
The 13th annual Arc of Kona Bazaar to raise funds and awareness of the needs of people living with disability. A family fun day with entertainment - great music featuring Kona's Traveling Jewish Wedding Band, the Voggy Mountain Ramblers, Full House, Little Blind and more, food, silent auction, trash and treasure and many products from participants and families. Time: 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM at main facility above Konawaena High School, Kealakekua. Free to the public. For more information, call 808/323-2626, email xan@arcofkona.org or visit www.arcofkona.org

November 21, 2009
KEALI'I REICHEL BENEFIT CONCERT - PEOPLES' THEATRE, HONOKA'A
Popular recording artist, Keali'i Reichel and his award-winning 12 member halau will perform in a concert benefiting the Hamakua Youth Center at 7 pm. Doors will open at 6pm. VIP seats are $60 and general seating is $40. Tickets are available online at or www.hamakuamusicfestival.org or www.hawaiiperformingartsfestival.org. For more information, call 333-7378.

November 21, 2009
BAY CONCERT 2009: A CELEBRATION OF LIFE AT KAHALU'U BAY - SHERATON KEAUHOU BAY RESORT
The 2009 Bay Concert: A Celebration of Life at Kahalu'u Bay will feature Na Hoku award winners Na Leo Pilimehana, and Ho'okena, with emcee Frank DeLima and the Daifukuji Taiko Drummers at the Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort Convention Center. Doors open at 4:30 p.m.; concert is from 5-8 p.m. The concert will honor artist and community leader Herb Kawainui Kane. Tickets go on sale September 21; for outlets, visit www.kohalacenter.org/bayconcert09 or call 808-887-6411. Cost: $25 advance/$30 at door; $40 adv. reserved; $45 reserved. For more information, call 808-895-1010, email cpunihaole@kohalacenter.org or visit http://www.kohalacenter.org/bayconcert09/

November 21, 2009
KAWAIHAE CANOE CLUB 15th ANNUAL FUNDRAISER LUAU - KAWAIHAE
Kawaihae Canoe Club's 15th annual fundraiser luau will feature the best Hawaiian food, fine local entertainment and some of the friendliest folks around! Coolers welcome. Time: 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM at Kawaihae Small Boat Harbor. Cost: Adults $25; Children 5-10: $15. For more information, email kawaihaecanoec@yahoo.com

November 21, 2009 thru January 3, 2010
INVITATIONAL WREATH EXHIBIT - VOLCANO ART CENTER
Volcano Art Center Gallery at the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park will feature wreaths by some of Hawaii's most creative fiber, wood, glass and multimedia artists. Closed on Christmas Day; open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free, but park entrance fees may apply. Information: 808/967-7565, or at www.volcanoartcenter.org

November 21-22, and 27-29 2009
CHRISTMAS IN THE COUNTRY - VOLCANO ART CENTER, HAWAII VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK
Special holiday celebrations include art demonstrations & print and book signings by gallery artists, plus a fine selection of quality handcrafted decorations and gifts offered only during the holiday season. Volcano Art Center Gallery Free, but park entrance fees may apply. Information: 808/967-7565, or at www.volcanoartcenter.org

November 22, 2009
FESTIVE WREATH MAKING WORKSHOP - VOLCANO
In this half-day workshop with fiber artist Jelena Clay, create a full size festive wreath designed to last beyond a season using native and non-native foliage gathered by instructor Jelena Clay. The $70 workshop fee includes all materials. Bring a pair of old scissors or garden shears plus your imagination. Register or apply for financial aid by Wed. Nov. 18. Open to ages 16 & up; all levels welcome; no prior experience needed. Volcano Art CenterÕs Niaulani Campus in Volcano Village (corner of Kalanikoa and Old Volcano Roads). Call (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org

November 22, 2009
THANKSGIVING DAY FEAST - SOUTH KONA GREEN MARKET, CAPTAIN COOK
You and your family are invited to join the South Kona Green Market family for a Thanksgiving Day Feast right after market hours in the field under the center tents. Bring your place settings, a side dish to share and one canned food item for the Food Pantry.

November 24, 2009
"ADVENTURES OF A RESTLESS WRITER" PRESENTATION - KONA PUBLIC LIBRARY
On Tuesday, November 24th, 2009 from 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM at the Kailua Kona Library, Dorothy Hinshaw Patent, children's book author, will be on hand to talk of her adventures while investigating everything from polar bears to the Galapagos, and the terra cotta warriors of China. Dorothy will accompany her talk with a slide show illustrating her adventures. Sponsored by Friends of the Libraries, Kona, this program is offered free to the public. Free to the public. For more information, call 325-5445 or email folk@folkhawaii.com or visit www.folkhawaii.com

November 25, 2009
MEET & EAT THANKSGIVING DINNER - KAILUA-KONA
The Kona Task Force on Feeding the Hungry's "Meet & Eat" program, a Thanksgiving Dinner with all-the-trimmings, will take place at 5:30PM at the Kealakehe Intermediate School cafeteria. The free meal is open to the public, and there will be live music performances. The Kona Task Force on Feeding the Hungry's Meet & Eat Program is in its 16th year. It is a community-based volunteer organization and all funds are directed to supplies and the food that make up the meals they serve. Through generous donations, they are able to serve the community. For more information, please contact Ardie Ikeda at 987-1664 or Margo Takata at 960-1392, or email mdtakata@hawaii.rr.com

November 27, 2010
FREE PUANA KA IKE LECTURE - KEAUHOU BEACH RESORT
"Kalo, Issues of Genetically-Modified Organisms: A Panel Presentation" will feature Dr. William Steiner, Dr. Dennis Gonsalves, and Jerry Konanui, from 5:30-7:00 p.m. at the Keauhou Beach Resort ballroom. The lecture is part of the Puana Ka Ike (Imparting Knowledge) series, an educational forum that offers a deeper understanding of Hawaiian culture, history, tradition and perspective of the environment. The series is sponsored by Kamehameha Investment Corporation/Kamehameha Schools, The Kohala Center, University of Hawaii at Hilo Kipuka Native Hawaiian Student Center and their Eia Hawai'i Lecture Series, and Keauhou Beach Resort. For more information, call 534-8528, email joyc@kic-hnl.com or visit http://kohalacenter.org/puanakaike/about.html

November 27, 2009
20th ANNUAL "LIGHT UP A LIFE" EVENT - HILO
You are invited to visit one of the Trees of Remembrance located at the two inside entrances at Macy's Prince Kuhio Plaza during mall hours to hang a commemorative ornament. For more, information call 808-969-1733 or email hospice@hospiceofhilo.org or visit www.hospiceofhilo.org

November 27 & 28, 2009
27th ANNUAL CHRISTMAS TREASURES ART, GIFT, COLLECTIBLES & CRAFT FAIR - KING KAMEHAMEHA'S KONA BEACH HOTEL, KAILUA-KONA
Friday and Saturday, 9am to 6pm, in the Kamakahonu Ballroom and the Main Mall Area. Local vendors and vendors from all over the state, silent auction, validated parking, drawing for prizes. For more information call 808/325-5155 or email Dagoose@hawaii.rr.com

November 27-29, 2009
23rd VOLCANO VILLAGE ART STUDIO TOUR & SALE
Join members of the Volcano Village Artists Hui for an unforgettable tour through seven artists studios in Volcano Village from 10am to 4pm. A wide variety of artwork will be on display and for sale, including ceramics, paintings, quilts, hand blown glass, photography, sculpture, fiber art, ethnic textile clothing and jewelry. The diversity and high artistic standards of the Volcano Village Artists Hui, along with the picturesque settings of each studio nestled in the lush rainforest of Volcano Village ensures a memorable experience. Maps for the tour will be available at local businesses in Volcano Village. Free to the public. For information, call 987-3472 or email eherb@hawaii.rr.com

November 28, 2009
BOOK AND PRINT SIGNING WITH DIETRICH VAREZ - VOLCANO
9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Come meet Volcano Art CenterÕs signature artist as he signs His latest prints celebrate the life and canonization of Father Damien. Volcano Art Center Gallery in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Free (Park entrance fees apply). Call (808) 967-7565 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org

November 28, 2009
"PRUNING PRACTICUM" WORKSHOP - KONA OUTDOOR CIRCLE
Get hands-on guidance in pruning shrubs and trees with KOC Events Advisor Diana Duff. Bring your own tools to learn how to properly sharpen and store your them. 9AM to noon. $30 members; $45 non-members. For more information, call 329-7286, email koc@konaoutdoorcircle.org or visit www.konaoutdoorcircle.org

November 28, 2009
HAPA IN CONCERT - KEAUHOU SHOPPING CENTER'S MONTHLY "BIG EVENT/HUI KAKO'O"
The event will take place at the Kai Malo'o Reef stage outside Longs Drug from 6-7:30 pm. HAPA will take the stage from 6:30-7:30pm. The opening act will be a performance at 6 pm by three of the finalists from the recent Hui Kako'o talent search. Come and cast your vote for your favorite performer and send them to the finals in December. Admission is only two cans of food per person which will be donated to the Hawaii Food Basket. And, for every can over two you donate you'll receive an entry to win a special prize. You can purchase canned food at KTA Super Store, Longs, and the convenience store of Circus Shop'Us filling station, across from the old Wendy's location. Make your contribution to reduce hunger on the Big Island. Seating is limited, so bring your lawn chairs.

November 28, 2009
EXCERPTS FROM "THE NUTCRACKER" - FOOD BENEFIT, HILTON WAIKOLOA VILLAGE
West West Hawaii Dance Theatre is pleased to announce that they will be perform at the Hilton Waikoloa Village's Grand Ballroom on Saturday, November 28 from 12-1pm. Cost: $1 or a can of soup. This showing is part of the Hilton's Annual Na Lima Craft Fair Fundraiser. The performance begins with Hula and Tahitiian choreographed by West Hawaii Dance Academy instructor and professional dancer Keahi Kapela. Megumi Kopp will then accompany the West Hawaii Dance Academy’s Performance Group on the grand piano in excerpts from the holiday classic ballet, "The Nutcracker", by Peter Tchaikovsky. West Hawaii Dance Academy is a non-profit educational organization that offers classes, workshops, guest artist residencies and performance opportunities to the Big Island community. For more information regarding their program or class schedule, please phone WHDT at 329-8876 (Kona), 885-8876 (Waimea), email vh2dns4@ilhawaii.net or visit www.whdt.org

November 28 & 29, and thru the Holidays, 2009
KONA POTTER'S GUILD ANNUAL HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE AND SALE - SOUTH KONA
9am to 5pm, at the Guild location on the Mamalahoa Hwy between mile markers 106 and 105, below the historic SKEA building in Honaunau. The sale will take place from 9am to 5pm both days. The artists will be on hand to answer questions about the studio and to discuss their individual production techniques. 100% Kona coffee, refreshments, and Good Cheer are complimentary! The Potter's Guild is located on the Mamalohoa Hwy between mile markers 106 and 105 in Honaunau (makai side), housed in the lower level of the historic S.K.E.A. building. For further info, call 328-9665 or email carrollestate@maukafire.com.

November 28 & 29, 2009
NA LIMA HANA HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIR - HILTON WAIKOLOA GRAND BALLROOM
Over 100 crafters from the Big Island will showcase their unique arts-and-crafts collectibles from 9am-4pm in the Grand Ballroom of the Hilton Waikoloa Village. Items will range from Hawaiian quilts and wood carvings to holiday ornaments and jewelry, accompanied by live entertainment, food available for purchase, a silent auction, pictures and boat rides with Santa, children's games, and more. Proceeds will benefit United Way and the Hawaii Island Food Bank. Donation of one dollar or a canned good item is required for entry and will be donated to the charities. For more information, call 886-2884.

December

Wednesday mornings
"HAWAI'IANA LIVE!" - PALACE THEATER, HILO
Join Leilehua Yuen in this local's-eye-view of Hawai'i Island each Wednesday in Hilo's historic Palace Theater. Through traditional chant and storytelling, music, hula, and video featurettes, Leilehua explores different facets of Hawai'i Island. Topics and films change weekly as the program revolves around the Hawaiian lunar calendar, and surprise guests and musicians often appear. A few of the past guests are Mary Ann Lim, Keoki Kahumoku, Leina'ala Lassiter, Diana Aki, and Stan Kaina. Sometimes there is hula! The show also features Bob Alder on the theater's historic pipe organ, playing some of Hawai'i's most beloved melodies. Wednesday mornings, 11:00 to 11:45am, except Christmas and New Year weeks. Admission: $5; kids free. Palace Theater, 38 Haili St. Hilo. Call 934-7010 for more information.

December (thru January 3, 2010), 2009
INVITATIONAL WREATH EXHIBIT - VOLCANO ART CENTER, HI VOLCANOES NAT'L PARK
Volcano Art Center Gallery at the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park will feature wreaths by some of Hawaii's most creative fiber, wood, glass and multimedia artists. Closed on Christmas Day; open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free, but park entrance fees may apply. Christmas in the Country handcrafted holiday decorations and gifts are available. Information: 808/967-7565 or www.volcanoartcenter.org

Thru December 7, 2009
"BID FOR HAWAII" ON-LINE AUCTION - KONA-KOHALA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE FUNDRAISER
This on-line auction offers opportunities to purchase artwork, merchandise, & tour and restaurant offerings, at the click of your mouse. ÊNew auction items are being accepted daily, so keep checking to see what may fill your needs on your holiday shopping list. Support Hawaii's local merchants and your Chamber of Commerce, while possibly saving money on some great purchases - a "Win-Win" for everyone! To register, or to browse the offerings, visit www.bidforhawaii.cmarket.com. ÊIf you'd like to be a part of this auction and have an item to donate, please contact the website for more information.

December 1, 2009
WORLD AIDS DAY EVENT - HILO
December 1, 2009, marks the 21st anniversary of World AIDS Day in Hawaii. This day honors those who have lost their lives to HIV and AIDS, and supports those who are living with the disease. The Hawaii Island HIV/AIDS Foundation will be hosting a Memorial Service on December 1, 2009, at 5:00pm in at Liliuokalani Park, Sumo Ring, Hilo. For more information, call 982-8800 or email david@hihaf.org

December 2, 2009
"BOTANY; SEX IN THE GARDEN" WORKSHOP - KONA OUTDOOR CIRCLE
Take a closer look at plants with KOC Education Director Bree DuPertuis. Time: 5pm to 7pm. $30 members; $45 non-members. For more information, call 329-7286, email koc@konaoutdoorcircle.org or visit www.konaoutdoorcircle.org

December 2, 2009
"IDENTIFYING PLANTS" WORKSHOP - KONA OUTDOOR CIRCLE
Get familiar with local plants' botanical and common names, and learn which are native. Time: 7pm to 9pm. $30 members; $45 non-members. For more information, call 329-7286, email koc@konaoutdoorcircle.org or visit www.konaoutdoorcircle.org

December 2, 2009
HAWAII HOMEOWNERSHIP CENTER ORIENTATION - KAILUA-KONA
Are tough economic times causing you to put your financial plans on hold? Hawaii HomeOwnership Center is a non-profit organization whose mission is educating families in financial literacy. Home buyer education and counseling is also provided. This is a free presentation open to the public. Call to reserve a space at 930-7661. Time: 6-7 PM at Mayor's Office Conference Room, Kailua- Kona. For more information, call 930-7614, email hanah@hihomeownership.org or visit www.hihomeownership.org

December 3, 2009
KONA WOMEN'S WORKSHOP - HALE HALAWAI, KAILUA-KONA
Kona Women's Workshop, facilitated by Tina Kitchens, will have guest speaker Nina Hasler, E.A., giving a overview class on how different types of business (ie. Corporate, LLC, Partnership...) can give you the biggest tax breaks. Nina Hasler is a licensed Enrolled Agent with the US Treasury. For more info about her, visit www.Nina-EA.com. Class cost is $10. Time: 5:30- 7:00pm at Hale Halawai (Back Classroom). For more information, call (808) 936-9712, email tkit@hawaii.rr.com or visit www.KonaWomensWorkshop.com

December 4, 2009
2nd ANNUAL CHARITY FUR BALL - HAPUNA BEACH PRINCE HOTEL, SOUTH KOHALA
Benefit for Rainbow Friends "No Kill" Animal Sanctuary in Kurtistown. There will be a Christmas market, party games, doggie fashion show, dinner with entertainment, prize drawings, and dancing. 5:00 pm to 11:00 pm at Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel courtyard and Grand Ballroom. Tickets: $100 ($25 tax deductible charitable donation). Call (808) 328-8455 for info or email beate@hawaii.edu

December 4, 2009
NATURE PHOTOGRAPHY STROLLS WITH JACK JEFFREY - HAWAII VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK
Bring your camera or binoculars for this hour-long easily-navigable stroll along the rim of Kilauea caldera with renowned wildlife biologist/photographer Jack Jeffrey. Jeffrey communicates the ecology and geology of the region while offering tips on how to capture it all on camera. Meet at Volcano Art Center Gallery, located next to the Visitor Center. Sign-up for 9am or 10:15am on a first-come, first-served basis. No pre-registration is offered. Free, however park entrance fees apply (donations welcome at VAC Gallery). Call (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org for more info.

December 5, 2009
RARE BIRD HIKE WITH JACK JEFFREY - HAWAII VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK
Take a "Rare Bird Hike" with renowned wildlife biologist/photographer Jack Jeffrey. Let an expert lead you through a rarely-explored pu'u, or hill, at 6,000 ft. elevation just off of Saddle Road. The forest fosters many populations of native birds no longer present at lower elevations, mainly due to the spread of avian diseases. The 3 mile moderate hike traverses over uneven ground and small, rocky hills. Transportation provided, with pick-ups in Hilo, Kea'au, and Volcano. Allow for additional travel time. Cost: $65 (financial aid available). Call (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org for more info.

December 5, 2009
HOLIDAY LIGHTS CELEBRATION - VOLCANO VILLAGE
A family event sure to delight youngsters and those young at heart, this colorful Christmas tree and light display will feature a childrenÕs tree ornament contest, plus entertainment. Children are invited to create a unique handmade ornament to be displayed outdoors on the Volcano community Christmas tree throughout the holiday season. Other festivities include an 'ohi'a yule log hunt, caroling, marshmallow roasting, entertainment by community youth, light refreshments, and a visit by Santa Claus at Volcano Art CenterÕs Niaulani Campus in Volcano Village (corner of Kalanikoa & Old Volcano Roads). Free (calabash donations welcome) Call (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org for more info.

December 5, 2009
HOLUALOA FESTIVAL OF LIGHT AND MUSIC, KONA
From 6-9pm. Witness the lighting of the town Christmas tree at 6pm, hear various musicians perform Christmas music thru the evening at stages around the village, and receive treats from the galleries and shops in this charming little artists' colony in the middle of Kona coffee country. Usually Santa shows up too! For information, call Holualoa Village Assn. at 808/322-8484, or visit www.holualoahawaii.com

December 5, 2009
CHRISTMAS AT KONA VILLAGE; DINING WITH THE CHEFS
Annually presented by the American Culinary Federation (ACF) Kona Kohala Chefs Association, the elegant extravaganza marks its 21st year with tantalizing cuisine prepared by over 20 top Hawai'i chefs. Under the stars, enjoy island music and an exciting live auction of exclusive, private dinner parties and receptions expertly hosted by local chefs. New this year, the live auction will solely benefit local culinary scholarships and the food service program at Hawai'i Community College-West Hawai'i. Seating is limited to 500; tickets are $90 per person. Reserved tables of 10 are available for $1,000. Tickets are already for sale at Kailua Candy Company, 329-2522, and at Clark Realty/Kona, Kona Wine Market and Kona Village Resort. Weekend and one-night accommodation packages starting at $195 for single/double occupancy with breakfast, $225 with Sunday brunch and $325 oceanfront rooms with breakfast or brunch are available from Kona Village Resort. Contact Reservations for details at 808-325-5555 or 1-800-367-5290 and mention "ACF Christmas at Kona Village".

December 5 and 6, 2009
PARADISE ART STUDIO TOUR - PUNA
The district of Puna's Hawaiian Paradise Park residential area is featuring 38 local artists showing in 15 studios. Appreciate art in the atmosphere in which it was created. 10% of sales go to support art in our local high schools. Time: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Free to the public. For more information call (808) 982-9577 or email paradiseglassworks@gmail.com or visit www.paradisestudiotour.com

December 6, 2009
CHRISTMAS IN THE GARDEN - AMY B. GREENWELL ETHNOBOTANICAL GARDEN, CAPT. COOK
Join talented artisans as they present and sell their garden-related wares from 10:00 a.m. to 3 p.m. Call 323-3318 for info or email agg@bishopmuseum.org

December 6, 2009
KANILEHUA CHORALE FALL CONCERT - PALACE THEATER, HILO
Enjoy a Sunday afternoon with Music Director Melanie Oldfather and Kanilehua Chorale as they present "Our Holiday Favorites" from 3-5pm. Tickets are $15 General; $12 Seniors; $5 Students, and are available from Chorale members and Basically Books. Call Palace Theater at 934-7010, email cheryltorrison@yahoo.com

December 7, 2009
HOSPICE OF HILO'S 6TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY DINNER & AUCTION
Featuring internationally recognised Chef Russell Siu of "3660 On the Rise" in Honolulu - winner of the 2008 'Ilima Award for Best Restaurant by Honolulu Advertiser. The evening gala benefit begins with a champagne silent auction followed by a seated dinner and live auction with celebrity hosts Linda Coble and Newton Chu. Tickets are $85 per person, reserved tables of eight are available for $750. Event sells out. Please call 969-1733 to reserve your ticket now! Time: 5:30 PM at Hilo Hawaiian Hotel, 71 Banyan Drive. For more information, call 808-969-1733, email hospice@hospiceofhilo.org or visit www.hospiceofhilo.org

December 10, 2009
KONA WOMEN'S WORKSHOP - HALE HALAWAI, KAILUA-KONA
Kona Women's Workshop facilitated by Tina Kitchens will have Guest Speaker Marta Barreras, Internationaly recognized Feng Shui Master, sharing powerful manifesting secrets through the ancient art of placement and space alignment. Fee $10. For more info on Marta visit http://crystalclearfengshui.com Time: 5:30-7:00pm at Hale Halawai (Back Classroom). Cost: $10 fee. For more information, call (808) 936-9712 or email tkit@hawaii.rr.com or visit www.KonaWomensWorkshop.com

December 12, 2009
"HE'S BACK!" - SANTA RETURNS TO LANIHAU CENTER, KAILUA-KONA
From 10AM-2PM, bring the family down for great holiday cheer with holiday entertainment, a Christmas Craft Fair, arts and crafts for the keikis, FREE photos with Santa, and the annual KWXX Treasure chest giveaway. For booth information, contact Marketing at (808) 960-1392. For more information, call (808)960-1392, email mdtakata@hawaii.rr.com or visit www.lanihau.com

December 12, 2009
WELLNESS WITH ALOHA CULTURAL AND HEALING FESTIVAL - WAIMEA
Come join kahuna, healers and native craftsmen as they share the power and wisdom of Hawaii. Only once a year do all of these incredible people gather in one place to offer freely to the public. Haleaka Iolani Pule Dooley (who gave President Obama his blessing), Reynolds and Kalei Kamakawiwo'ole, M Kalani Souza, Dane Silva and more. Live music, hula, martial arts and speaking presentations on Hawaiian cultural teachings such as ho'o'ponopono. Time: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM at Waimea Park, Waimea. Free to the public. For more information, call 808/775-1625 or email david@WellnessWithAloha.com

December 12, 2009
KAILUA-KONA COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS PARADE
Kailua-Kona's Christmas Parade will be starting at 5 p.m. (till 7pm), going from Kekuaokalani Gym (near the Old Airport), along Kuakini Highway, down Palani, and along Alii Drive ending just past Coconut Grove Marketplace. Theme: "Na Mele O Kalikimaka" (The Songs of Christmas). 60 entries, with lights, music, and fun. Announcing stations at West Hawaii Today (Kuakini & Kaiwi St.), King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel, Kokonutz Bar & Grill (upstairs from Scandinavian Shave Ice), Pancho & Lefty's, Kimo's at Uncle Billy's Hotel, Waterfront Row, Lava Java, and up on the lanai at Coconut Grove Marketplace. Santa will be at West Hawaii Today from 4:30 until 5pm. Magic by Arneleo the Great at Kimo's 4:45 p.m. til parade. Grand Marshal: Kealakehe Intermediate Music Teacher Gloria Juan-Tapaatoutai. Entries or volunteers can contact the Kona-side Mayor's Office at Hanama Place (near Big Island Grill) - call 327-3603. Presented by Kona Rotary Clubs. For more information, call 808-327-3603 or email bkossow@co.hawaii.hi.us or visit www.konaparades.com

December 12 & 13, 2009
CELEBRATION OF CHRISTMAS IN MUSIC - THE KONA FESTIVALE CHORALE
Under the direction of Carson Wilcox, the group will present its 21st annual Celebration of Christmas In Music, featuring two performances to be held on Saturday, December 12th at 7:00 p.m., followed by a matinee on Sunday, December 13th at 3:00 p.m. Featuring both traditional and contemporary holiday music, the popular concerts will be staged at the festively decorated King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel ballroom. Cost:$18 pre-sale; $20 at the door. For tickets and event information, please call the Kona Festivale Chorale Office at 331-1115, email kfchoral@hawaii.rr.com or visit www.konafestivalechorale.org

December 16, 2009
VOLCANO ART CENTER'S ANNUAL HOLIDAY CONCERT, "MELE KALIKIMAKA" - VOLCANO
This show is Volcano Art Center's yearly holiday gift of family entertainment to the community, featuring music, singing, dance, and more. Emceed by a local personality, the show includes local talent, good cheer, a festive atmosphere, and an audience carol sing-along as the finale. Kilauea Military Camp Theater in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Free (calabash donations welcome). Call 967-8222 for info or visit Volcano Art Center

December 20, 2009
HAWAII HEALING GARDEN SOLSTICE FESTIVAL - AMY GREENWELL BOTANICAL GARDEN, CAPTAIN COOK
The Hawaii Healing Garden Festival - Winter Solstice Celebration, held in collaboration with the South Kona Green Market, features Hawai'i's Healthy & Green activities, cultural presentations, lei & coconut contests, children's programs, crafts, plants, local & organic food and family fun. Time: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM at Amy Greenwell Botanical Garden, Captain Cook. Cost: $3 Donation. For information, call 638-0888, email info@hawaiihealthguide.com or visit www.hawaiihealinggarden.com

December 20, 2009
HAWAII HEALING GARDEN FESTIVAL & EXPO - CAPTAIN COOK
Good things are growing in the Healing Garden! The Festival Celebration & Expo will be held at in collaboration with the South Kona Green Market, and will feature cultural presentations, speakers, children's programs, tours, workshops and educational presentations. The Health Fair will feature healthy & green services, natural products, organic goods, massage and health practitioners. A non-profit section will feature community groups & educational presenters. There will be a special focus on the event being a zero waste event. **Vendors offering health and sustainability related services, please reserve your booth early; limited space available. Time: 9:30 am - 4:30 pm at Amy Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden, Captain Cook. Free to the public. For information call 638-0888, email info@hawaiihealthguide.com or visit www.hawaiihealinggarden.com

December 27, 2009
WAILEA VILLAGE HISTORIC PRESERVATION - ANNUAL MOCHI POUNDING
Celebrate the New Year with demonstrations of and participation in traditional Japanese mochi pounding and making the rice cakes. Hearty local lunch included for $5. Location: Akiko's Buddhist Bed and Breakfast at 15-mile marker, Hwy. 19 on Hamakua Coast. 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Call (808) 963-6422 or e-mail msakiko@hawaii.rr.com

December 27, 2009
MOCHI POUNDING AND KADOMATSU MAKING - DONKEY MILL ART CENTER, HOLUALOA
Come and learn a Japanese tradition of preparing for the New Year. Kadomatsu, made of bamboo and pine branches, is placed at the entrance to homes to greet the New Year. Mochi, a rice cake delicacy served on New Year's Day, symbolizes the many blessings that the family will receive in the new year. Guests will make a Kadomatsu for their home and taste the delicate cakes while talking story with new and old friends. Time: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM at Donkey Mill Art Center, Holualoa. Cost: $25 per member families; $55 non-member. For more information, call 322-3362, email hfac.dmac@hawaiiantel.net or visit www.donkeymillartcenter.org

January

Wednesday mornings
"HAWAI'IANA LIVE!" - PALACE THEATER, HILO
Join Leilehua Yuen in this local's-eye-view of Hawai'i Island each Wednesday in Hilo's historic Palace Theater. Through traditional chant and storytelling, music, hula, and video featurettes, Leilehua explores different facets of Hawai'i Island. Topics and films change weekly as the program revolves around the Hawaiian lunar calendar, and surprise guests and musicians often appear. A few of the past guests are Mary Ann Lim, Keoki Kahumoku, Leina'ala Lassiter, Diana Aki, and Stan Kaina. Sometimes there is hula! The show also features Bob Alder on the theater's historic pipe organ, playing some of Hawai'i's most beloved melodies. Wednesday mornings, 11:00 to 11:45am, except Christmas and New Year weeks. Admission: $5; kids free. Palace Theater, 38 Haili St. Hilo. Call 934-7010 for more information.

January TBA, 2010
HULIHE'E PALACE MONTHLY SUNDAY CONCERT SERIES AND VILLAGE STROLL - KAILUA-KONA
Free Hawaiian Music Concert featuring the Merrie Monarchs men's glee club and dancing by the halau of Etua Lopez on the Palace's South Lawn at 4 p.m., presented by the Daughters of Hawaii. Bring your own beach mat or chair. AFTER the Concert, stroll thru Kailua Village, enjoy outdoor cafe's and restaurants, local musicians & artists. Special kama'aina pricing at participating restaurants & merchants. Stroll sponsored by the Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce, Destination Kona Coast, Kailua Village Business Improvement District, and Kailua Village Merchants Association. For more info about the Palace concert, email hulihee@ilhawaii.net. For info about the Village Stroll, email info@kona-kohala.com

January TBA, 2010
CHINESE NEW YEAR CELEBRATION - KING'S SHOPS, WAIKOLOA BEACH RESORT
Celebrate the Year of the Ox at the Kings' Shops with martial arts demonstrations, ribbon dance and the tradition lion dance. Join us as the lion dancers chase away evil and usher in the new lunar year with good luck. Feed the dragon as he makes his way thru King' Shops. New Year's lysees (red envelopes) will be provided to feed to the lion. Time: 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Free to the public. For more information, call 808 886-8811 or email pili.kiaha@ggp.com

January TBA, 2010
WAIKOLOA LIONS CLUB CLASSIC CAR AND TRUCK SHOW 2010 - QUEEN'S MARKETPLACE
Classic cars from the 1930's and up will be featured along with some entertainment, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Queen's Marketplace parking lot, Waikoloa Beach Resort. Participants with classic cars or trucks, contact Scott Carter at 960-1955, Bruce Bannick at 883-2447, or Matty Keith at 896-8538 for more information. Entry fee is $15.00. 2009 Event Classic Car Shirts will be available for purchase. Event is limited to the first 100 cars. Specialty cars are welcome and will be given special spacing. Free to the public. For more information, call 896-8538, email matty.keith@yahoo.com or visit www.waikoloalionsclub.com

January TBA, 2010
4th ANNUAL ART AUCTION BENEFIT - DONKEY MILL ART CENTER, HOLUALOA
From 2-7pm, silent and live auctions featuring over 100 pieces of art, of which 75% were made in Hawaii. Proceeds will be used to maintain the "Art in the Schools" program. For more info, and to see the catalog, visit donkeymillartcenter.org. Phone: 322-3362 or 895-3934; email lalindab@hmail.com

January 22, 2010
FREE PUANA KA IKE LECTURE - KEAUHOU BEACH RESORT
Thomas S. Dye, Ph.D. will present the lecture, "A Brief History of Archaeological Map-making in Hawai'i" from 5:30-7:00 p.m. at the Keauhou Beach Resort ballroom. The lecture is part of the Puana Ka Ike (Imparting Knowledge) series, an educational forum that offers a deeper understanding of Hawaiian culture, history, tradition and perspective of the environment. The series is sponsored by Kamehameha Investment Corporation/Kamehameha Schools, The Kohala Center, University of Hawaii at Hilo Kipuka Native Hawaiian Student Center and their Eia Hawai'i Lecture Series, and Keauhou Beach Resort. For more information, call 534-8528, email joyc@kic-hnl.com or visit http://kohalacenter.org/puanakaike/about.html

January 23, 2010
DJANGO REINHARDT 100th BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION - HILO
Details to be announced. Le Hot Club De Hilo will host a Gypsy Jazz Festival in honor of Django Reinhardt's 100th birthday. This event is expected to feature performers from Honolulu and beyond. At about the time the musicians start playing in Hilo, it will be Django's actual birth date, January 24th, in Belgium where he was born! For more info, email Hal Glatzer at hal@halglatzer.com or John Nussbaum at mkjguitars@apolloproject.org

January 23, 2010
NA MEA HAWAI'I HULA KAHIKO PERFORMANCE - HAWAII VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK
See traditional hula and chant performed outdoors on the hula platform overlooking Kilauea Crater, featuring Halau Hula Ka NoÕeau under the direction of kumu hula Michael Pili Pang. Also, Hawaiian cultural demonstrations at Volcano Art Center Gallery will take place from 9:30 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Free, however park entrance fees apply (donations welcome at VAC Gallery). Call (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org.

February

Wednesday mornings
"HAWAI'IANA LIVE!" - PALACE THEATER, HILO
Join Leilehua Yuen in this local's-eye-view of Hawai'i Island each Wednesday in Hilo's historic Palace Theater. Through traditional chant and storytelling, music, hula, and video featurettes, Leilehua explores different facets of Hawai'i Island. Topics and films change weekly as the program revolves around the Hawaiian lunar calendar, and surprise guests and musicians often appear. A few of the past guests are Mary Ann Lim, Keoki Kahumoku, Leina'ala Lassiter, Diana Aki, and Stan Kaina. Sometimes there is hula! The show also features Bob Alder on the theater's historic pipe organ, playing some of Hawai'i's most beloved melodies. Wednesday mornings, 11:00 to 11:45am, except Christmas and New Year weeks. Admission: $5; kids free. Palace Theater, 38 Haili St. Hilo. Call 934-7010 for more information.

February 6, 2010
ANNUAL CHERRY BLOSSOM HERITAGE FESTIVAL - WAIMEA
The scenic event showcases the blooming of Church Row ParkÕs historic cherry trees and the Japanese tradition of viewing them, called "hanami". The trees typically bloom the beginning of February and herald the arrival of spring with their pink blossoms, often against the backdrop of a snowy Mauna Kea summit. During the 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. festival, a host of activities sprawl eastward from the Parker Ranch Historic Homes on Mamalahoa Hwy. 190 to the Hawaiian Homestead FarmerÕs Market on Hwy. 19. Look for pink banners identifying site locations. Enjoy Japanese and multi-cultural performing arts, plus demonstrations of bonsai, origami, sumie, calligraphy, tea ceremony, mochi pounding and a host of craft fairs. The festival offers free shuttle transportation among venues. For more info, call 961-8706.Ê

February 7, 2010
BOBFEST AG FAIR - HILO
Keep it Green Hawaii & Native FM presents BobFest Agricultural Fair 2010 Sunday, February 7th from noon to 6:00 PM at Mo'oheau Park & Bandstand in Hilo. International reggae artists & local Hawaiian bands will perform. Organic farms and farmers, charter school garden groups, Kona CPR, Sustainable Island Products, and CERT Hawaii and more will be demonstrating & vending. Free to the public. For more, information call 808/216-7372, email bobfestagfair@gmail.com or visit www.myspace.com/bobfestagfair

February TBA, 2010
INTERNATIONAL NIGHTS 2010
The International Student Association will present "International Nights 2010" (Friday and Saturday) from 7:30-9:30pm in the UH Hilo Performing Arts Center (theatre). Many cultures from all over the world will come together, with an array of performances on stage. For tickets, please contact the PAC box office at 974-7310. For more information about this event please contact the International Student Office at 974-7313, email isamail@hawaii.edu or visit www.uhh.hawaii.edu/~isa. The photos from last year's International Night are available at http://www.uhh.hawaii.edu/~isa/gallery/2008/InternationalNights_2008/index.html

February TBA, 2010
"LOVE THE ARTS" ANNUAL FUNDRAISER FOR VOLCANO ART CENTER
Be a sweetheart to the arts while enjoying a cozy evening--replete with delectable pupus and sparkling entertainment--in front of the Great Room fireplace. Hosted by VAC's board of directors, this annual fundraiser features a selection of gourmet hors d'oeuvres, wines, chocolates, and cheeses, as well as live music plus live and silent auctions. This year's event features a French theme. Proceeds from the evening will raise funds for additional educational facilities at Niaulani. Volcano Art Center's Niaulani Campus in Volcano Village (corner of Kalanikoa & Old Volcano Roads). $35. Call (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org for more info.

February TBA, 2010
3rd ANNUAL HAWAII ISLAND CHINESE FILM FESTIVAL - HILO
The historic Palace Theater in downtown Hilo opens the Hilo Chinese New Year Festival with a selection of films from and about China. After blessing several downtown businesses, the Big Island Shaolin Arts lions offer a special blessing on Haili Street fronting the theater to open the film festival at 7 p.m. with thousands of firecrackers. Free! Info: (808) 933-9772, visit www.poshfestivals.com or email amooninfo@bigisland.com

February TBA, 2010
ANNUAL HAWAII HEART WALK & HEALTH FAIR - EAST HI. DIVISION
A great cause to reduce heart disease and stroke and educate the public about exercising healthy habits. Walk starts 8:00 a.m. (Health Fair 7am-11am) at Lili'uokalani Gardens, Hilo. Call the American Heart Assn. at (808) 961-2825 for more info.

February TBA, 2010
8th ANNUAL HILO CHINESE NEW YEAR FESTIVAL
This free community festival begins at 9 a.m. at the Kress Building on Kamehameha Avenue just one short block away from Kalakaua Park in historic downtown Hilo with Lion Dancers offering traditional blessings along the street. The Lions parade up to the park to open the Festival with thousands of firecrackers at 10 a.m. Till 3 p.m., Asian arts, crafts, product and international food purveyors will man tents filled with the sounds, smells and sights celebrating the New Year. Performances, cooking & cultural demonstrations, and displays illustrate the Chinese influence on Hawaii's people and culture. (808) 933-9772, visit www.poshfestivals.com or email amooninfo@bigisland.com

February TBA, 2010
LAUPAHOEHOE MUSIC FESTIVAL
The 5th annual music festival at Laupahoehoe Point Beach Park will benefit community projects and provide college scholarships for area students. Live music and hula. Alcohol and drug free event; no coolers please. Time: 9:00 am till 5:00 pm. For more information, call 962-6350 or email bunzeyj001@hawaii.rr.com

February 14, 2010
"Q'UISINE OF HEARTS", AN AMERICAN CULINARY FEDERATION VALENTINE BRUNCH - HILTON WAIKOLOA
A lovely brunch, hosted by the Hilton Waikoloa Village, that annually benefits 2000 Kona-Kohala keiki through American Culinary Federation (ACF) Chef and Child nutrition awareness programs. Time is 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Water's Edge Ballroom at the Hilton Waikoloa Village. Enjoy an array of sumptuous food, wine and music. Enjoy a bruschetta buffet, omelet stations and bite-sized pastry specialties by local pastry chefs, bakers, chocolatiers and ice cream makers, all accompanied by 100 percent Kona coffee, handcrafted ales, wine and music. Bid for "sweetheart" floral arrangements, quality merchandise and fun, including private catered dinners by top Big Isle chefs, during the silent auction. Presented by the ACF Kona-Kohala Chapter Chef de Cuisine Association. Tickets are $45 for adults and $20 for children aged 5-10. For more info, call 329-2522.

February TBA, 2010
HULIHE'E PALACE MONTHLY SUNDAY CONCERT SERIES AND VILLAGE STROLL - KAILUA-KONA
Free Hawaiian Music Concert featuring the Merrie Monarchs men's glee club and dancing by the halau of Etua Lopez on the Palace's South Lawn at 4 p.m., presented by the Daughters of Hawaii. Bring your own beach mat or chair. AFTER the Concert, stroll thru Kailua Village, enjoy outdoor cafe's and restaurants, local musicians & artists. Special kama'aina pricing at participating restaurants & merchants. Stroll sponsored by the Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce, Destination Kona Coast, Kailua Village Business Improvement District, and Kailua Village Merchants Association. For more info about the Palace concert, email hulihee@ilhawaii.net. For info about the Village Stroll, email info@kona-kohala.com

February TBA, 2010
4th ANNUAL HAWAI'I AVOCADO FESTIVAL - KEALAKEKUA
The festival will be held at the Amy B. H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Gardens from 9 am - 5 pm. South Kona Green Market is sponsoring this event which will be loads of fun for the whole family and is an admission free event. For more information, call 334-3340, email info@SKGM.org, or visit www.SKGM.org

February TBA, 2010
PORTUGUESE DAY IN THE PARK - HILO
The public is invited to this celebration of all things Portuguese! Chamber members make Portuguese bean soup and bake bread in the "fourno", then distributing it free to everyone. Sweet bread, pickled onions, sausage, and malasadas will be available for sale. The Hawaii County Band will play selections of Portuguese music at 11:30 a.m. and there is will be a booth to look up ancestry and history of the Portuguese in Hawaii. Fun for the whole family. Time: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Gilbert Carvalho Park, Hilo. For more information, call: 808-935-0547 or email puuhina@hawaiiantel.net

February TBA, 2010
RELAY FOR LIFE - KEALAKEHE HIGH SCHOOL, KAILUA-KONA
The American Cancer Society's signature event Relay For Life will be held at the KHS Waverider Field. Teams of 8-15 people will take turns walking the track promoting awareness and advocacy of cancer and the fight to find a cure. Luminaria (Candle) Ceremony will begin at 9:00pm. A special appearance by the band, Pepper, will highlight the event. Help raise funds for the American Cancer Society and the many services that they offer for our local community. Time: 6:00pm - 6:00am at KHS Waverider Stadium, Kealakehe. Cost: $10.00 registration fee for all team members. For more information, call 808/895-3168, email maile.carvalho@cancer.org or visit www.relayforlife.org/khshi

February TBA, 2010
GROW HAWAIIAN FESTIVAL - AMY B.H. GREENWELL ETHNOBOTANICAL GARDEN
Weavers, hula dancers, kapa makers, storytellers and other practitioners of traditional Hawaiian culture will meet with biologists, conservationists, and horticulturists to explore their common passion for the native and Polynesian-introduced plants of Hawaii. Festival attendees will have the opportunity to meet, talk, and learn with some of the foremost practioners of Hawaiian arts, with many opportunities for making cultural items to take home with them. This free event will take place at the Amy B.H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden in Captain Cook, 12 miles south of Kailua-Kona on Hwy 11, just south of mile marker 110, from 9am to 2:30pm. Activities will be available for young and old, and plate lunches will be for sale. There will be an informal lei contest (everyone is encouraged to enter - call for category details). Volunteers needed. For more info, please call 323-3318 or email agg@bishopmuseum.org.

February TBA, 2010
"SWING INTO SPRING" DINNER GALA - KONA FESTIVAL CHORALE
The annual event, which will begin at 5:30pm at King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel. There will be dining and dancing, a live cabaret show, and live and silent auctions. $60 per person; 10% discount for tables of 10. Tickets: 331-1115.

February TBA, 2010
MONTHLY "BIG EVENT" FOOD BENEFIT - KEAUHOU SHOPPING CENTER
This monthly event, which will feature a performance from a big name entertainer from 6-7pm on the last Saturday of each month at Keauhou Shopping Center, is free with a donation of 2 cans of food per attendee, which will be donated to Hawaii Food Basket. February's Big Event will feature the very popular comedian, Frank DeLima. For more info, visit www.keauhoushoppingcenter.com

February 26, 2010
FREE PUANA KA IKE LECTURE - KEAUHOU BEACH RESORT
Kaleikoa Kaʻeo will present the lecture "Mo'ok'auhau: The Development of Environmental Kinship" from 5:30-7:00 p.m. at the Keauhou Beach Resort ballroom. The lecture is part of the Puana Ka Ike (Imparting Knowledge) series, an educational forum that offers a deeper understanding of Hawaiian culture, history, tradition and perspective of the environment. The series is sponsored by Kamehameha Investment Corporation/Kamehameha Schools, The Kohala Center, University of Hawaii at Hilo Kipuka Native Hawaiian Student Center and their Eia Hawai'i Lecture Series, and Keauhou Beach Resort. For more information, call 534-8528, email joyc@kic-hnl.com or visit http://kohalacenter.org/puanakaike/about.html

March

Wednesday mornings
"HAWAI'IANA LIVE!" - PALACE THEATER, HILO
Join Leilehua Yuen in this local's-eye-view of Hawai'i Island each Wednesday in Hilo's historic Palace Theater. Through traditional chant and storytelling, music, hula, and video featurettes, Leilehua explores different facets of Hawai'i Island. Topics and films change weekly as the program revolves around the Hawaiian lunar calendar, and surprise guests and musicians often appear. A few of the past guests are Mary Ann Lim, Keoki Kahumoku, Leina'ala Lassiter, Diana Aki, and Stan Kaina. Sometimes there is hula! The show also features Bob Alder on the theater's historic pipe organ, playing some of Hawai'i's most beloved melodies. Wednesday mornings, 11:00 to 11:45am, except Christmas and New Year weeks. Admission: $5; kids free. Palace Theater, 38 Haili St. Hilo. Call 934-7010 for more information.

March TBA, 2010
GREAT WAIKOLOA 'UKULELE FESTIVAL
Along with performances by big names, this event provides lessons in how the 'ukulele is created, and Roy and Kathy Sakuma will offer free 'ukulele lessons. Time: 2 to 7 p.m. Music performances will be taking place at Queens' MarketPlace, Kings' Shops Center Stage and other locations on the Waikoloa Beach Resort grounds. Admission: Free. 'Ukulele and ipu-making demonstrations have $15 fee. Call (808) 886-8822 or visit www.waikoloabeachresort.com for more info.

March TBA, 2010
4th ANNUAL KONA BREWERS FEST GOLF OPEN
Big Island Country Club is as challenging as it is playable. Golf course designers, Pete and Perry Dye, have created a masterpiece. The scenic vistas and the beautifully maintained championship course will make for an enjoyable experience for all golfers. This event is a fundraiser benefiting environmental, educational and cultural organizations of the Big Island. Time: 7:30am registration; 9am Shotgun Start at Big Island Country Club, Kailua-Kona. For more information, call (808) 937-0987.

March TBA, 2010
15th ANNUAL KONA BREWERS FESTIVAL
The party event of the year!! Nearly 30 breweries tap up more than 60 types of beer, and chefs from 25 restaurants serve culinary creations on the shores of Kailua Bay at King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel from 2:30 to 6:30 p.m. Outside, on the luau grounds! Live music, a Trash Fashion Show and more, will round out the day. Tickets are $50 (available only in advance), and include unlimited gourmet food, entertainment, and 8 beer-tasting tickets with a souvenir glass. Info: Kona Brewers Festival or 808/331-3033.

March TBA, 2010
FREE HAWAIIAN MUSIC CONCERT AT SHERATON KEAUHOU BAY RESORT'S HAWAII LAWN
From 4:30-10pm, this popular annual event honoring Kamehameha 111rd's birthday will feature some very fine Hawaiian musicians and dancers. No coolers or outside food/beverages will be allowed. Free concert trolley shuttle between Outrigger Keauhou Beach Resort, Keauhou Shopping Center and Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort from 4:30-10:30pm.

March TBA, 2010
HULIHE'E PALACE MONTHLY SUNDAY CONCERT SERIES AND VILLAGE STROLL - KAILUA-KONA
Free Hawaiian Music Concert featuring the Merrie Monarchs men's glee club and dancing by the halau of Etua Lopez on the Palace's South Lawn at 4 p.m., presented by the Daughters of Hawaii. Bring your own beach mat or chair. AFTER the Concert, stroll thru Kailua Village, enjoy outdoor cafe's and restaurants, local musicians & artists. Special kama'aina pricing at participating restaurants & merchants. Stroll sponsored by the Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce, Destination Kona Coast, Kailua Village Business Improvement District, and Kailua Village Merchants Association. For more info about the Palace concert, email hulihee@ilhawaii.net. For info about the Village Stroll, email info@kona-kohala.com

March TBA, 2010
KONA COMMUNITY HOSPITAL'S 3rd ANNUAL LADIES NIGHT OUT
Kona Community Hospital's third annual Ladies Night Out event is scheduled for from 6:30 to 9:00 p.m. at Kona Community Hospital (KCH). " All ladies 13 years or older are invited to attend this free community event. It is a local opportunity for the women of West Hawaii to spend an evening taking care of themselves in a fun and social way. Current sponsors include American Cancer Society, Hawaii Community Federal Credit Union, Kona Community Hospital Auxiliary, March of Dimes, West Hawaii Community Health Center, and West Hawaii Perinatal Local Area Consortium. The event will feature complimentary services and information such as blood pressure checks, cholesterol testing, glucose screening, heart disease information, cancer awareness, and more. Volunteer services of haircuts, manicures, massage, skin care, and make-up consultations will be available too, and there will also be live entertainment, door prizes and refreshments. Free to the public. For more information, call 808-322-6960 or email ebryant@hhsc.org

March TBA, 2010
13th ANNUAL BIG ISLAND INTERNATIONAL MARATHON
26.2 Mile Marathon, 10.8 Mile Run & 3.1 Mile Fitness Run/Walk. Run the coast of old Hawaii along the Pacific Ocean, through tropical rainforests, past exotic waterfalls, and along black lava beaches to finish at historic Hilo Bay Front. Run with elite runners in a small running field. Start to mile 10 is a net downhill of 500 ft. with some hills in the first 8 miles and then fairly flat after that. Hilo is located in one of the cooler lush areas of Hawaii, which translates into good running conditions. Enthusiastic volunteers cheer on the runners at well-stocked aid stations and at the finish line celebration. Time: 6am. 10.8 mile runners run the first 10.8 miles with the marathoners. The 3.1 Mile Fitness Run/Walk is from Hilo Bay around Queen Lili'uokalani Gardens. Info: Wayne Joseph 808/969-7400 or visit www.hilomarathon.org

March TBA, 2010
HAILI MEN'S INVITATIONAL VOLLEYBALL TOURNAMENT - HILO
For more than 50 years, this popular sporting event has featured novice to nationally ranked AA players from around the United States. The five-day tourney is held at the Hilo Civic Auditorium and other locations around Hilo. Call (808) 961-3633 for more info.

March TBA, 2010
MARCH OF DIMES' MARCH FOR BABIES - HILO
Enjoy a mile walk around the Pana'ewa Zoo to benefit the health of all babies. There will be entertainment, refreshments and prizes. For more info about March for Babies, call 969-1206 or 1-800-272-5240. To register to participate, visit www.marchforbabies.org or call 1-800-525-9255. Registration is at 7:30am at Pana'ewa Rainforest Zoo, Hilo.

March TBA, 2010
ANNUAL "HAPPY DAY AT HULIHE'E" SPRING FUNDRAISER - KAILUA-KONA
The much-looked-forward-to annual event on the grounds of historic Hulihe'e Palace will take place from 9am to 4pm, and feature a full lineup of arts and crafts vendors, ono local food, a tempting bake sale featuring Aunty Nona's popular peach cake, the ever-popular TutuÕs Attic elephant sale, a chance to win a Hawaiian quilt, and non-stop entertainment. Interested vendors should contact Anita Okimoto at the palace office, 329-9555.

March TBA, 2010
24th ANNUAL MAGIC SPECTACULAR - ALOHA THEATRE, KAINALIU
To benefit Society for Kona's Education and Art in Honaunau (SKEA). Big Island Magic Club has books a "headliner superstar" in addition to talented local magicians. There will be two shows at the Aloha Theatre - a matinee at 2:30 pm and an evening performance at 7:00 pm. Members of the Big Island Magic Club will also be mesmerizing the audience. For more information, call 323-9707, SKEA at 328-9392, or email alohamagic@aol.com

March 26, 2010
FREE PUANA KA IKE LECTURE - KEAUHOU BEACH RESORT
Peter Vitousek will present a lecture on the "Hawai'i Ecosystem" from 5:30-7:00 p.m. at the Keauhou Beach Resort ballroom. The lecture is part of the Puana Ka Ike (Imparting Knowledge) series, an educational forum that offers a deeper understanding of Hawaiian culture, history, tradition and perspective of the environment. The series is sponsored by Kamehameha Investment Corporation/Kamehameha Schools, The Kohala Center, University of Hawaii at Hilo Kipuka Native Hawaiian Student Center and their Eia Hawai‘i Lecture Series, and Keauhou Beach Resort. For more information, call 534-8528, email joyc@kic-hnl.com or visit http://kohalacenter.org/puanakaike/about.html

March 27, 2010
18th ANNUAL SPRING DANCE AND MUSIC CONCERT
7:30 p.m. at Kilauea Theater, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, featuring innovative new works by talented Big Island choreographers and dancers. Styles range from ballet and modern to jazz, hip hop, and more. Coordinated by Celeste Anderson Staton. $14 adults/ $12 seniors 65 & up or children 12 & under ($2 more at the door). Call: (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org

March TBA, 2010
LAVAMAN TRIATHLON - WAIKOLOA BEACH RESORT
The 12th Annual Lavaman Triathlon will be held Sunday at the Waikoloa Beach Resort. This Olympic distance triathlon starts with a 1.5k swim in Anaeho'omalu Bay, continues with a 40k bike on the Queen K Highway and then a 10k run through the resort's hotel grounds and lava fields, finishing on the beach. A major fundraiser for Team in Training as well as local area non-profit organizations. On Saturday, the Lava Kids Aquathon (swim and run) starts with 7:30 registration. Time: 7:30 AM to 1 PM at Waikoloa Beach Resort. Free to the public. For more information, call 640-8669, email claudia@tccomputer.net or visit www.lavamantriathlon.com

April

Wednesday mornings
"HAWAI'IANA LIVE!" - PALACE THEATER, HILO
Join Leilehua Yuen in this local's-eye-view of Hawai'i Island each Wednesday in Hilo's historic Palace Theater. Through traditional chant and storytelling, music, hula, and video featurettes, Leilehua explores different facets of Hawai'i Island. Topics and films change weekly as the program revolves around the Hawaiian lunar calendar, and surprise guests and musicians often appear. A few of the past guests are Mary Ann Lim, Keoki Kahumoku, Leina'ala Lassiter, Diana Aki, and Stan Kaina. Sometimes there is hula! The show also features Bob Alder on the theater's historic pipe organ, playing some of Hawai'i's most beloved melodies. Wednesday mornings, 11:00 to 11:45am, except Christmas and New Year weeks. Admission: $5; kids free. Palace Theater, 38 Haili St. Hilo. Call 934-7010 for more information.

April TBA, 2010
KONA CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL - SHERATON KEAUHOU BAY RESORT
Gala evening including a chocolate taste-off with local and regional, professional and amateur chefs. Event will include wine tasting, dancing and entertainment. The Gala will be preceded by a week of farm tours and chocolate-related symposiums. Time: 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Cost: $40 advance/$50 at the door. For more information call: 808-987-8722, email konachocolatefest@gmail.com or visit www.konachocolatefestival.com

April TBA, 2010
POPS MENAGERIE 2010 - KONA FESTIVALE CHORALE
Hear pop, broadway, country, classical, contemporary, soul and 40's classics from one of Kona's finest choral groups. Saturday at 7pm; Sunday matinee' at 3pm at King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel Ballroom. Open seating. Adults $18adv/$20 door; Children 12 & under, free. For more information, call 808/331-1115. Credit card payments accepted.

April TBA, 2010
TSUNAMI TALK STORY FESTIVAL - HILO
This year's event tells stories of and interviews Hilo residents who were "first responders" in the tsunamis that struck Hilo town in 1946 and 1960. 6-9 p.m., Sangha Hall. $25 includes dinner. (808) 935-0926 or visit www.tsunami.org.

April TBA, 2010
FRIENDS OF THE CHILDREN'S JUSTICE CENTER ANNUAL BRUNCH - KAILUA-KONA
Friends of the Children's Justice Center will be holding their annual brunch on Sunday at Huggo's Restaurant in Kailua-Kona. April is Child Abuse Prevention Month - please join us in our efforts to help a victim become a child again. Tickets are $35 and are available by calling 331-2425. Reservations required. Cost: $35.00. For more information, call 808-331-2425 or email fcjcwh@hawaii.rr.com

April TBA, 2010
TORCH RUN FOR SPECIAL OLYMPICS - KAILUA-KONA
The Hawaii Police Department and volunteers will carry the "Flame of Hope" through the streets of Kailua-Kona in an effort to raise awareness and funds for the athletes of Special Olympics West Hawaii. This event, known as the "Troy Barboza Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics" is a tradition in the law enforcement community around the world. The event begins at 8:30 a.m. at the Old Kona Airport Park. The "Flame of Hope" will be carried from the park to Hale Halawai via Kuakini Highway, Palani Road and Alii Drive. At Hale Halawai, the torch runners will turn around and return to the park. Police officers will be directing traffic at the intersections of Kuakini Highway/Palani Road and Kopiki Street/Palani Road. Those who make donations of $20 or more will receive a free commemorative 2010 Troy Barboza/First Hawaiian Bank Law Enforcement Torch Run T-shirt or tank top. (A $25 donation entitles the donor to a long-sleeved shirt or one in XXXL size). For more information, call 345-1344 or email sowhdave@yahoo.com

April TBA, 2010
THE 45th ANNUAL MERRIE MONARCH FESTIVAL - HILO
A week-long festival of cultural events including Hawaii's most prestigious hula competition at Edith Kanaka'ole Stadium. The festival begins with a Ho'olaule'a at the auditorium behind the Stadium on Easter Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with lots of music, food and fun. Don't miss the crafts fair that takes place beginnning Wednesday, the 15th, with incredible fresh lei and the cream of the crop Hawaiian crafts. On Wednesday there is a free hula exhibition night at the stadium that begins at 6:30 pm; Thursday is the solo Miss Aloha Hula competition; Friday & Saturday are the group Kahiko (ancient) and Auana (modern) hula competitions. A grand parade winds through Hilo-town on Saturday morning. Get your tickets early! Dorothy Thompson, 808/935-9168

April TBA, 2010
SPRING ART FESTIVAL - DONKEY MILL ART CENTER, HOLUALOA
Create gifts of art in a number of media, including drawing, papermaking, ceramic bowls, lauhala weaving, scarves & napkins and more, or decorate a t-shirt of your own. Art demos will take place thruout the day; kanikapila at 11am and 2pm. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Admission $7 (5 and up). There will be material fees for some activities. All proceeds will benefit the Arts Education for Youth programs. Call 322-3362 for more info, or visit www.donkeymillartcenter.org.

April TBA, 2010
5th ANNUAL GATHERING TO HONOR KING KALAKAUA - HILO
The gathering takes place the day of the Merrie Monarch Royal Parade in the King's summer playground, Kalakaua Park, just steps away from the parade route. From 9 a.m. Ð 3 p.m. Hawaiian historian and well-known musician Palani Vaughn will host this event that is filled with those things that Hawaii's last king, David Kalakaua so loved. The king has been credited with reviving the Hawaiian art form of hula and nicknamed the "Merrie Monarch" because he enjoyed parties and hosted many gala events and festivals. The gathering recreates these festivities with hula, singing, 'ukulele playing, storytelling, food, and artists & craftspeople demonstrating and selling their works. For more information, call (808) 933-9772, visit www.poshfestivals.com or email amooninfo@bigisland.com

April TBA, 2010
2010 BIG ISLAND OPEN TABLE TENNIS TOURNAMENT - WAIMEA
A USATT sanctioned table tennis tournament with events for unrated recreational players as well as rated players. Time: 9am-5pm at Thelma Parker Gym, Waimea. Registration cost $10.00-$20.00; spectators free. For more information, call 808/889-1099, email len@tablettennisandmore.com or visit http://www.tabletennisandmore.com/2009bigislandopen.htm

April TBA, 2010
KA'U COFFEE FESTIVAL - PAHALA
A festival celebrating "the bean" in Hawaii Island's beautiful Ka'u district. There will be a Miss Ka'u Coffee pageant, a ho'olaule'a, best coffee competition, recipe contest, music & entertainment, farm tours, coffee demos and more during the three days. At the Community Center in Pahala. Most events are free. There will be a concert in connection with the festival, as well. For more info, call (808) 929-9550 or visit www.kaucoffeefest.com.

April 25, 2010
EARTH AND OCEAN FAIR DAY - KEAUHOU, KONA
From 10am to 2pm at Kahalu'u Bay and the Outrigger Keauhou Beach Resort. Also, at the ReefTeach Booth, learn how to take care of our corals, fish and turtles and save Kahalu'u Bay. At 9:45am, the traditional Hawaiian blessing will begin the celebration. This free family-oriented event features activities and games for all ages, Hawaiian crafts, renewable energy exhibits, tidepool, whale, turtle, fishing games and other exhibits. Meet people who do what they can to help Hawaii Island's fragile ecosystem. Bring the 'ohana and learn more about taking care of our coastal resources and aina. Parking for this event includes the Kahalu'u Beach Park parking, which fills quickly. More parking is available on the mauka side of the road across from the Outrigger entrance. Bring your own bag to hold the handouts and prizes! Questions: Contact Sara Peck at UH Sea Grant, 329-2861.

April TBA, 2010
"SINGSPIRATION" - KONA FESTIVALE CHORALE
To be held at Mokuaikaua Church, located on Alii Dr. across from Hulihe'e Palace, at 7 pm. Free to the public. Featuring guest artists, choirs, praise teams and halau performing the finest in contemporary and traditional sacred music. Call the Chorale at 331-1115 for more info., or email kfchoral@hawaii.rr.com

April TBA, 2010
HULIHE'E PALACE MONTHLY SUNDAY CONCERT SERIES AND VILLAGE STROLL - KAILUA-KONA
Free Hawaiian Music Concert featuring the Merrie Monarchs men's glee club and dancing by the halau of Etua Lopez on the Palace's South Lawn at 4 p.m., presented by the Daughters of Hawaii. Bring your own beach mat or chair. AFTER the Concert, stroll thru Kailua Village, enjoy outdoor cafe's and restaurants, local musicians & artists. Special kama'aina pricing at participating restaurants & merchants. Stroll sponsored by the Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce, Destination Kona Coast, Kailua Village Business Improvement District, and Kailua Village Merchants Association. For more info about the Palace concert, email hulihee@ilhawaii.net. For info about the Village Stroll, email info@kona-kohala.com

April 23, 2010
FREE PUANA KA IKE LECTURE - KEAUHOU BEACH RESORT
Kawika Winter will present the lecture "Ahupua Restoration: Melding Science and Culture to Produce Models of Sustainability" from 5:30 - 7:00 p.m. on Friday, April 23, 2010 at the Keauhou Beach Resort ballroom. The lecture is part of the Puana Ka Ike (Imparting Knowledge) series, an educational forum that offers a deeper understanding of Hawaiian culture, history, tradition and perspective of the environment. The series is sponsored by Kamehameha Investment Corporation/Kamehameha Schools, The Kohala Center, University of Hawaii at Hilo Kipuka Native Hawaiian Student Center and their Eia Hawai'i Lecture Series, and Keauhou Beach Resort. For more information, call 534-8528, email joyc@kic-hnl.com or visit http://kohalacenter.org/puanakaike/about.html

May

Wednesday mornings
"HAWAI'IANA LIVE!" - PALACE THEATER, HILO
Join Leilehua Yuen in this local's-eye-view of Hawai'i Island each Wednesday in Hilo's historic Palace Theater. Through traditional chant and storytelling, music, hula, and video featurettes, Leilehua explores different facets of Hawai'i Island. Topics and films change weekly as the program revolves around the Hawaiian lunar calendar, and surprise guests and musicians often appear. A few of the past guests are Mary Ann Lim, Keoki Kahumoku, Leina'ala Lassiter, Diana Aki, and Stan Kaina. Sometimes there is hula! The show also features Bob Alder on the theater's historic pipe organ, playing some of Hawai'i's most beloved melodies. Wednesday mornings, 11:00 to 11:45am, except Christmas and New Year weeks. Admission: $5; kids free. Palace Theater, 38 Haili St. Hilo. Call 934-7010 for more information.

May TBA, 2010
HAWAII ISLAND HUMANE SOCIETY'S TROPICAL PAWS BENEFIT
The 14th annual Tropical Paws Benefit for the Hawaii Island Humane Society will be held at Four Seasons Hualalai Resort and will begin at 6:00 p.m. A silent and live auction, Four Seasons-style buffet dinner, live entertainment and dancing, are all anticipated for the evening. Seating is limited and the event sold out early last year. For ticket information, sponsorships, or to donate to the auctions, please call 329-1175. For more information, call 329-1175, email admin@hihs.org or visit www.hihs.org

May TBA, 2010
ASTRODAY FESTIVAL - HILO
The annual award-winning AstroDay Festival will be back at Prince Kuhio Plaza in Hilo from 10 am until 5 pm. Featuring interactive exhibits from every observatory on Mauna Kea, demonstrations and presentations, Hawaiian Culture displays, student science projects, Infrared Portrait Studio, StarLab Planetarium shows, liquid nitrogen demonstrations, scholastic robotics demonstrations, telescope viewing and a Kids Corner with fun activities. There will be a presentation of the Excellence in Teaching award and Hawaiian slack key music from many local entertainers. Many prizes to give away! Admission is free and open to the public. Contact Gary Fujihara at (808) 932-2328, email him at fujmon@mac.com or visit http://www.astroday.net for more information.

May TBA, 2010
KANILEHUA CHORALE SPRING CONCERT - HILO
The Kanilehua Chorale present another season of fine choral music led by Music Director Melanie Oldfather at the Palace Theater in downtown Hilo. Admission: $15-General, $12-Seniors, $5-Students. Time: 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM at Palace Theater, 38 Haili Street, Hilo. For more information, call 961-6750, email cheryltorrison@yahoo.com or visit www.kanilehua.org

May TBA, 2010
6th ANNUAL MAY DAY LEI DAY FESTIVAL - PALACE THEATER, HILO
This beautiful aloha-filled event celebrates the Hawaiian art form of lei making. The festival features a spectacular lei display, hands-on demonstrations, lei contest, live music and hula on stage, historic short films, and the historic theater's pipe organ. Time: 1:00 PM at The Palace Theater, Hilo. Free to the public. For more information, call 934-7010 or visit www.hilopalace.com

May TBA, 2010
KULEANA BUSINESS CONFERENCE AND TRADE SHOW
The Kuleana Green Business Conference promotes ethical and socially responsible business practices and environmental stewardship. Time: 8:00 am - 6:00 pm at Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort, Keauhou, Cost: $50 for Kona-Kohala Chamber Members/$60 non members. The Kuleana Trade Show runs concurrent to the Kuleana Business Conference and is free and open to the public. The trade show features businesses that practice ethical and socially responsible business and environmental stewardship. Time: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. For more information, call 329-1758, email Sue@kona-kohala.com or visit kuleana-business-conference

May TBA, 2010
FRANK DELIMA'S ANNUAL MOTHER'S DAY CONCERT - HILO
For more than 30 years, Frank DeLima has been one of Hawaii's favorite comedians. Enjoy his zany parodies, outrageous sense of humor and spontaneous creativity at the Palace Theater in Hilo beginning at 7pm. Tickets $20. For more info, call 934-7010.

May TBA, 2010
KONA ORCHID SOCIETY ANNUAL MOTHER'S DAY WEEKEND SHOW AND SALE - HALE HALAWAI
This free event will take place between the hours of 10am - 6pm on Friday, and 8am-6pm on Saturday. There will be a wide selection of island-grown orchids, including new orchid hybrids and exotic species and a section of cacti and succulents, as well. Orchid-themed art, cards, pottery and apparel will round out the offerings. The show and sale is a benefit for the nonprofit Kona Orchid Society. For more info, call Bob Zeller at 939-9282.

May TBA, 2010
HOSPICE OF HILO'S 6th ANNUAL CELEBRATION OF LIFE
Come celebrate life through art, education and music. This free family event includes a 5k pledge walk and the "Walk of Remembrance", a walk in memory of loved ones, while helping raise funds to help support the hospice program of compassionate support for those who are dying and the families who love and care for them. At sunset, share remembrance at "Lights of Remembrance", the launch of lanterns on the Wailoa River. Live music and food will be available. Walk registration form available at www.hospiceofhilo.org. Time: 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Wailoa State Park, Hilo. For more information call: 808/969-1733, email hospice@hospiceofhilo.org or visit hospiceofhilo.org

May TBA, 2010
BIG ISLAND FILM FESTIVAL
The 5th Big Island Film Festival will be held at Waikoloa Beach Resort. This "Talk Story" film festival celebrates independent, narrative, Hawaiian and international filmmakers and their films. There will be social food & beverage events and entertainment as well as the film presentations, and an award brunch. Kama'aina discounts for tickets every night. "Best of the Fest" will kick off the audience choice short and feature films on Sunday at 5pm. For more information, call 808/557-5200 direct, 808/883-0394 office, email bigislandff@aol.com or visit BigIslandFilmFestival.com

May TBA, 2010
32nd ANNUAL VISITOR INDUSTRY CHARITY WALK, 2009
The 3.5 mile Charity Walk will be at the Waikoloa Beach Resort. Registration is from 6:30 to 8am. Run starts at 7:45am; Walk at 8am. A minimum donation of $35 adult/$25 children is required to participate, and includes a T-shirt and the Beach Party. The Beach Party following the Walk will include a brunch, games and top-notch live entertainment. For more information, call 328-8162 or email bambi.lau@hilton.com

May TBA, 2010
"BRIDGING THE GAP AND WORKING TOGETHER" LUNCHEON - KAILUA-KONA
An appreciation luncheon for all foster/resource and adoptive families of West Hawaii. Buffet lunch, entertainment and prizes for the entire family. Time: 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM at Hale Halawai Pavillion, Alii Dr., Kailua-Kona. For more information, call 896-3829, email lcase@pidfoundation.org or visit www.pidfoundation.org

May TBA, 2010
HULIHE'E PALACE MONTHLY SUNDAY CONCERT SERIES AND VILLAGE STROLL - KAILUA-KONA
Free Hawaiian Music Concert featuring the Merrie Monarchs men's glee club and dancing by the halau of Etua Lopez on the Palace's South Lawn at 4 p.m., presented by the Daughters of Hawaii. Bring your own beach mat or chair. Before and after the Concert, stroll thru Kailua Village (the Stroll starts at 1pm & goes till 6pm), enjoy outdoor cafe's and restaurants, local musicians & artists. Special kama'aina pricing at participating restaurants & merchants. Stroll sponsored by the Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce, Destination Kona Coast, Kailua Village Business Improvement District, and Kailua Village Merchants Association. For more info about the Palace concert, email hulihee@ilhawaii.net. For info about the Village Stroll, email info@kona-kohala.com

May TBA, 2010
4TH ANNUAL HILO INTER-TRIBAL POWWOW
This free, family-oriented event starts at 9:00 am and ends at 6 pm on Saturday and Sunday at Wailoa River Park in Hilo. On Monday, there will be a Veterans' Honoring Ceremony and the colors will be retired at 4 pm. Grand Entry is at 10 am, all three days. Everyone is invited to experience the sights, sounds, flavors and spirit of Native America through music, dance, storytelling, food, arts and crafts. This is a drug and alcohol free event. The powwow is hosted by the Federation of American Natives in partnership with Big Island Resource Conservation and Development Council, Inc. with support from the Hawaii Tourism Authority, the County of Hawaii, and the Connections Charter PCS. For more information, go to www.hilopowwow.com or send e-mail to info@hilopowwow.com

May TBA, 2010
WESTERN WEEKEND - HONOKA'A
The little town of Honokaa celebrates the plantation and paniolo heritage of the Hamakua Coast. The celebration features a Paniolo Parade at 4pm on Saturday, along with an agricultural festival, kids' activities and costume (paniolo duds) contest. At 5pm the Block Party gets under way - enjoy a local BBQ steak dinner at 5:30pm and stick around for the Saloon Girl contest at 7pm, followed by with live country western dance music from the Silver Spurs, with dancing under the stars till 11pm. The celebration culminates with the annual rodeo for two days. This is an alcohol-free family event. For more information, call (808) 885-5580, email info@westernweek.com or visit westernweek.com

May TBA, 2010
SOUTH KONA GREEN MARKET "GREEN CLEAN"
The Green Clean is a Community Recycle Rummage sale. Folks from all around West Hawaii will be setting up in the Amy B. H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden/South Kona Green Market field to offer gently used treasures that need a new home. Think of it as the biggest multi-family yard sale you've ever seen! There will be furniture, housewares, tools, toys and much, much more. The field will be open to the public for sales at 7:00 am. There will also be live music, food vendors and places to sit & rest before heading off for more shopping. Call 328-8797 for more info, or email manager@skgm.org

May TBA, 2010
IRONMAN 70.3 HAWAII - FAIRMONT ORCHID
1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike, 13.1 mile run; half Ironman Triathlon distance event and qualifier for the 2009 Ford Ironman World Championship. 35 qualifying slots for Big Island athletes, 20 slots for other Hawaii residents and 24 international slots. For more information, call 808/329-0063 or visit www.ironman703hawaii.com

May TBA, 2010
ARTISTS IN ACTION - VOLCANO VILLAGE
Artists in Action day will be held at Volcano Garden Arts in Volcano Village on Saturday, May 30, from 11 am to 3 pm. This is a popular and family-friendly event everyone can enjoy for free! Artists from the Volcano Village Artists Hui will be demonstrating their skills in a broad range of media. Free demonstrations and hands-on activities. Enjoy a day of free fun, learn how local artists create their unique works, and try your hand at a variety of creative projects. The Ono Cafe at Volcano Garden Arts will be offering delicious gourmet lunches for purchase. Time: 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Volcano Garden Arts Gallery, Volcano Village. Free to the public. For more information, call 808/987-3472 or email eherb@hawaii.rr.com

June

Wednesday mornings
"HAWAI'IANA LIVE!" - PALACE THEATER, HILO
Join Leilehua Yuen in this local's-eye-view of Hawai'i Island each Wednesday in Hilo's historic Palace Theater. Through traditional chant and storytelling, music, hula, and video featurettes, Leilehua explores different facets of Hawai'i Island. Topics and films change weekly as the program revolves around the Hawaiian lunar calendar, and surprise guests and musicians often appear. A few of the past guests are Mary Ann Lim, Keoki Kahumoku, Leina'ala Lassiter, Diana Aki, and Stan Kaina. Sometimes there is hula! The show also features Bob Alder on the theater's historic pipe organ, playing some of Hawai'i's most beloved melodies. Wednesday mornings, 11:00 to 11:45am, except Christmas and New Year weeks. Admission: $5; kids free. Palace Theater, 38 Haili St. Hilo. Call 934-7010 for more information.

June 11, 2010
NORTH KOHALA KAMEHAMEHA DAY CELEBRATION
8:00am, Lei Draping at the statue of King Kamehameha in Kapa'au; 9:00, Parade from Downtown Hawi to the Statue in Kapa'au, with floats, Pa'u Units and more; 10:00am-4:00pm, Ho'olaule'a (crafts fair) at Kamehameha Park top field - lots of local exhibits, including saddle and lei making, Hawaiian health, quilting, and more. Ono food and live entertainment. For more info, contact Cicely Ho'opai at 884-5840 or Maile Carvalho at 895-3168

June 11, 2010
KAMEHAMEHA FESTIVAL - HILO
This festival features features a ho'olaule'a with top Hawaii recording artists, hula halau, and various cultural presentations. 10 a.m. Ð 5 p.m. at Moku Ola (Coconut Island) in Hilo. Free. A drug, alcohol and smoke-free event. For more information contact Pua at (808) 989-4844 or e-mail pua@mamalahoa.org.

June TBA, 2010
KAILUA-KONA'S KING KAMEHAMEHA DAY COMMUNITY PARADE & HO'OLAULEA
A beautiful floral parade through the heart of Kailua-Kona honoring the great Hawaiian monarch from 9-noon along Alii Drive. The parade will begin at Huggo's, head north on Ali'i drive through town and end at the intersection of Palani and Kuakini Hwy. The parade will feature many Hawaiian-themed entries, including pa'u riders representing all the Hawaiian Islands, bands, hula and many community groups. Food booths, crafts and much more. The ho'olauea, which is an arts and crafts fair and native arts exhibit, will take place from 9am-4pm at King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel. For more info, contact 333-0045, email info@paieakamehameha.org or visit www.paieakamehameha.org

June TBA, 2010
THE 8th ANNUAL HAWAII ISLAND SEED EXCHANGE
The Seed Exchange will take place at Bishop Museum's Amy Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden in Captain Cook from 8:30am to 12:30pm. This annual event is for all farmers, gardeners, and "would be" gardeners who are interested in exchanging and receiving seed, cuttings, and keiki of food crops that have been successfully grown on Hawaii Island. This yearly festival promotes the concept of "Food Self-Sufficiency" for Hawaii Island, and is a chance for farmers and gardeners to come together and share the successes of their farms & gardens with the community, to network, and to share in educational presentations. Kumu Keala Ching and Na Wai Iwi Ola will be assisting with the opening ceremony honoring the Goddess of the Moon, Hina. All morning workshops will be connecting the rhythms and influences of the moon to agriculture. For more information contact Nancy Redfeather at 322-2801 or email nancyredfeather@yahoo.com

June TBA, 2010
3rd ANNUAL GAY PRIDE FESTIVAL, KAILUA-KONA
From 2:00 to 7:30 p.m., on the shores of Kailua Bay, at King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel. There will be celebration events all weekend long. Free to the public. For more information, call 808/557-4668, email crystal@hawaiiislandpride.com or visit www.hawaiiislandpride.com

June TBA, 2010
SUMMER FARMFEST & 'UKULELE JAM - HOLUALOA
From 9-3pm partake of free samples from West Hawaii's finest farms at over a dozen village shops and galleries, enjoy Animal Husbandry's petting zoo, see cheese making and bowl turning demonstrations. Live 'ukulele music all day long on three stages throughout town. Parking at Imin Center and Holualoa School. Visit www.holualoahawaii.com for more info.

June TBA, 2010
WEST HAWAII ASTRONOMY CLUB STAR PARTY - MAUNA KEA VISITORS CENTER
This is a late-night event, with the serious star gazing taking place at 10pm when the lights of the Visitors Center are turned off. The group is planning to stay till almost dawn. "The 21" scope is coming out, and the Parking Lot will be blocked off." Attendees must wear warm clothes - long pants, closed-toed shoes, socks, hooded sweatshirts, jackets, & bring gloves, if possible. People MUST bring food for a potluck meal and snacks, plus hot tea or coffee (you WILL want food, and you WILL want hot beverages, so you must bring some to participate in the potluck). No pets are allowed. Hilo Astronomy Club is invited, as well.

June TBA, 2010
PU'UHONUA O HONAUNAU NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK ANNUAL CULTURAL FESTIVAL
Annual major cultural festival in a beautiful historic setting, from 9am-3pm. Storytellers, canoe builders, carvers and weavers will share their skills both days. Hula followed by a traditional Hawaiian food tasting and hukilau (traditional Hawaiian community fishing event) on Sunday. Call 328-2288 for more info.

June 20, 2010
"RUN FORREST RUN" KEIKI FUN RUNS - KAILUA-KONA
A Father's Day event at the Hale Halawai County Park on Alii Drive in downtown Kona, sponsored by Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. and the Kona Marathon. A day of fun for the whole family. Children ages 1-14 can participate in age specific runs/walks. All entrants receive t-shirt, finisher ribbon, and goodie bag. Entry Fee is only $5. Register at Bubba Gump's in Kailua-Kona, or printout application at www.konamarathon.com Time: 8:00 AM -Noon at Hale Halawai County Park, Kailua Kona. For information call 808-967-8240 or email Raceinfo@konamarathon.com

June 27, 2010
KONA MARATHON & FAMILY FUN RUNS
These 1/2 Marathon, 10K and 5K courses run along the spectacular scenic shoreline of the Pacific Ocean, offering beautiful views of crashing waves and lush rain forests, and extending into the unique black lava volcanic landscape of the Big Island. Get a taste of the Ironman running course, and experience the true aloha of Hawaii in this smaller family-friendly event. Time: 5:30 AM - 2:30 PM at Keauhou Beach Resort, Kona. Cost: Marathon $60, 1/2 Marathon $55, 10K $35, 5K $25. For more information, call 808/967-8240, email raceinfo@konamarathon.com or visit www.konamarathon.com

June TBA, 2010
ROAD CLOSURES FOR KONA MARATHON AND HALF MARATHON
Southbound Alii Dr. from Outrigger Keauhou Beach Resort to Palani Rd., from 5am-12:30pm
Southbound Kuakini Hwy. from Makala Blvd. to Palani Rd., from 5:45-10:45am
Southbound Makala Blvd. from Queen Ka'ahumanu Hwy. to Kuakini Hwy., from 6-10:30am
OTEC Rd. - both directions, from 7-9:30am
Queen Ka'ahumanu Hwy will remain open during the race, however the makai (west) shoulder will be coned off to separate runners from traffic. Motorists are advised to use caution. For more info, please call 325-0287

July

Wednesday mornings
"HAWAI'IANA LIVE!" - PALACE THEATER, HILO
Join Leilehua Yuen in this local's-eye-view of Hawai'i Island each Wednesday in Hilo's historic Palace Theater. Through traditional chant and storytelling, music, hula, and video featurettes, Leilehua explores different facets of Hawai'i Island. Topics and films change weekly as the program revolves around the Hawaiian lunar calendar, and surprise guests and musicians often appear. A few of the past guests are Mary Ann Lim, Keoki Kahumoku, Leina'ala Lassiter, Diana Aki, and Stan Kaina. Sometimes there is hula! The show also features Bob Alder on the theater's historic pipe organ, playing some of Hawai'i's most beloved melodies. Wednesday mornings, 11:00 to 11:45am, except Christmas and New Year weeks. Admission: $5; kids free. Palace Theater, 38 Haili St. Hilo. Call 934-7010 for more information.

July TBA, 2010
ANNUAL PARKER RANCH RODEO
Award-winning Independence Weekend tradition includes action-packed rodeo events, keiki (children) activities, ono (delicious) food and more. Parker Ranch paniolo (Hawaiian cowboys) are joined by other Big Island paniolo for a corral of traditional rodeo events from 9:00 a.m. until noon at Parker Ranch Arena, Waimea. Cost: $6 at gate (ages 10 and under are free). For more information call 808/888-5669, email info@parkerranch.com, or visit www.parkerranch.com

July 4, 2010
FOURTH OF JULY PARADE & CELEBRATION - VOLCANO VILLAGE
The parade will begin at 9 a.m. at the Volcano Post Office and proceed for one half mile along Old Volcano Road to Cooper Community Center, featuring the Hawaii County Band, floats, antique cars, fire engines, bicycles, horses, and animals in costumes! Music, games, food booths, dunking pond, craft fair and prizes to follow. Call Betsy Mitchell for more info at (808) 967-7209.

July 4, 2010
FOURTH OF JULY INDEPENDENCE DAY PARADE - KAILUA-KONA
Time: 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM. For more information, call (808) 329-5226, email konakolohe@yahoo.com or visit www.konaparades.com

July 4, 2010
ANNUAL KAILUA-KONA FOURTH OF JULY INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION - COCONUT GROVE MARKETPLACE
Annual alcohol and drug-free family event from 4-10pm at Coconut Grove MarketPlace's volleyball court. The end of the parade will arrive between 6 & 7pm, with fireworks over the Bay at 8:30pm and performances by local artists, dancers and musicians. Children's activities and gifts are planned, as well. For more info, call 990-4263 or email julie@aceigo.com

July 4, 2010
FIREWORKS OVER KAILUA-KONA
Fourth of July fireworks will start at 8:30 p.m. over Kailua Bay. Enjoy the patriotic music with the fireworks - tune to LAVA105.3 FM. Time: 8:30 p.m. till approx. 8:45 p.m. For more information about donating to the fireworks fund, call 329-3602, email bkossow@co.hawaii.hi.us or visit www.konaparades.com

July 4, 2010
GREAT WAIKOLOA RUBBER DUCKIE RACE & 4TH OF JULY EXTRAVAGANZA
Benefit for United Cerebral Palsy Assn. of Hawaii. Free entertainment all day, from 10 am to 8:30 pm; Fireworks and laser light show at 8:30 pm. Forms for "Duckie adoption" available at all Kings' Shops merchants.

July 4, 2010
TURTLE INDEPENDENCE DAY
Three and four year old turtles are released in the ocean after growing up in the Honu Ponds at the Mauna Lani Bay Hotel & Bungalows, Kohala Coast. The honu will be gathered at 10:30 am from the Honu Ponds and they will be paraded to the beach front for the release. A welcome ceremony will kick off the event, followed by their release into the ocean. This annual celebration honors the honu and helps educate the public about the Hawaiian green sea turtle. There will be live entertainment, a 4th of July BBQ, & an educational display about green sea turtles. For more information, call 808-885-6622, email sbredo@maunalani,.com or visit www.maunalani.com

July 4, 2010
ONOMEA BAY RUN - HILO
The Big Island Road Runners (BIRR), with support from Hawaii Island United Way (HIUW), announce the running of The Onomea Bay Run, a 5K/10K Road Race to benefit the HIUW. The run follows the scenic route through Onomea Bay, starting and finishing at the Papaikou Hongwanji. The start time for the event is 7:30am. The event ends at 12pm. Cost: $20 - includes post-run food and beverage. Entry fee for kids 12 and under is $15. There is a $5 discount for all BIRR members. There will be a post-run reception for the runners. Address of the Papaikou Hongwanji is 27-376 Mamalahoa Hwy, Papaikou. DOWNLOAD ENTRY FORM AT www.hiuw.org. For more information, call 987-5224, email kahakuokahale@msn.com or visit www.hiuw.org

July 4, 2010
KA'U 4th OF JULY PARADE AND HO'OLAULEA
Event will take place from 10am-6pm. Parade on Hwy. 11 will begin at 10am, featuring pa'u riders, classic cars. floats and marchers, followed by a ho'olaulea at the ball park from 11am-6pm. Food, crafts, service booths, and a full lineup of entertainment are planned.

Beginning July TBA, 2009
HAWAII PERFORMING ARTS FESTIVAL
Concerts, some free and some ticketed, in venues island-wide, presented by the Hawaii Performing Arts Festival, which is a 501(c)3 tax exempt nonprofit educational and performance organization devoted to excellence in the art of classical music. "The essence of the festival is the coming together of talented, motivated vocalists and instrumentalists with world-renowned artists/teachers to study and perform together in the exotic beauty that is Hawaii." The Festival's free Opening Night Concert will feature the faculty artists beginning at 7:30 pm at Davies Chapel, Hawaii Preparatory Academy in Waimea. There will be a "Meet the Artists" reception following. For more info about the performers and this year's concerts, please visit the Festival's website.

July TBA, 2010
HAWAII VOLCANOES NAT'L PARK'S ANNUAL CULTURAL FESTIVAL
Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park's annual cultural festival will feature Hawaiian music, hula, crafts sales and demonstrations by local artists and practitioners from 10am to 3pm. The event is free; Park entrance fees apply. Contact 808/985-6011 or 985-6153 or visit www.fhvnp.org for more info.

July TBA, 2010
LANIHAU CENTER ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION - KAILUA-KONA
Lanihau Center will celebrate their anniversary from 11AM-3PM, with activities for the keiki, and island music. A few booth spaces are available for any business or organization that provides activities for the keiki. Please contact Margo Takata at (808)960-1392 if you are interested in a booth. For information, call 808/960-1392 or email mdtakata@hawaii.rr.com

July TBA, 2010
ANNUAL "CHRISTMAS IN JULY" - ART, GIFT, COLLECTIBLES, & CRAFT FAIR
Time: 9:00am to 5:00 pm at King Kamehameha's Kona Beach hotel, Kailua-Kona. Free to the public. For more information, call 325-5155 or email dagoose@hawaii.rr.com

July TBA, 2010
RELAY FOR LIFE - KAILUA-KONA
Teams of 10 to 20 or more will take turns walking, running or strolling around a designated area between 6 pm, July 11 and 6 am, at Old Airport State Park to benefit the American Cancer Society. Team members will camp out during the 12 overnight hours, enjoying food, music and camaraderie. There will also be a candle lighting ceremony to honor and remember those who lost their battle with cancer. For more information, call 808/895-3168, email maile.carvalho@cancer.org or visit www.relayforlife.org/konahi

July TBA, 2010
BUILDING & DESIGN EXPO - SHERATON KEAUHOU BAY RESORT
The Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce will be holding its Annual Building & Design Expo at the Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort & Spa. Participants can visit with exhibitors from local companies in the areas of home design, construction, decorating, landscaping, pools and spas, home security, energy efficiency and more. Enter to win great prizes to be given away, including a 2 night stay at the Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort & Spa and HPM prize promotions. Time: Fri. 5-8pm; Sat. 9am-5pm; Sun. 9am-3pm. Free to the public. For more information, call 329-1758 or email marketing@kona-kohala.com or visit www.kona-kohala.com

July TBA, 2010
ANNUAL HOME BUILDING & REMODELING SHOW - HILO
See the latest in home building and remodeling from national and local exhibitors at the annual Home Building & Remodeling Show. Pre-registrations cards are available at all HPM Building Supply locations, Big Island Toyota, and at the Hawaii Island exhibitors (see web site for complete exhibitor list). To be held at Edith Kanakaole Tennis Stadium, Hilo. Times: Friday, 4:00-8:00pm; Saturday, 9:00am-5:00pm; Sunday, 9:00am-3:00pm. Free to the public. For more information, call 808-937-7366, email catherine@hpmhi.com or visit www.hpmhawaii.com

July TBA, 2010
28th ANNUAL COLGATE COUNTRY SHOWDOWN - KONA BOWL, KAILUA-KONA
Hosted by KKOA 107.7 FM, at the local level, the Colgate Country Showdown is America's largest country music talent search. This is an exciting community event that provides aspiring artists on the Big Island an opportunity for state, regional, and national exposure while promoting a greater appreciation of country music. Come support our local talent on July 25th at the Kona Bowl. More information and entry forms available at www.koacountry.com or call 329-8090. Time: 2-4 PM. Free to the public. For more information, call 329-8090, email kristin@koacountry.com or visit www.koacountry.com

July TBA, 2010
"CREAM OF THE CROP" COFFEE AND DESSERT TASTING - FOUR SEASONS RESORT
From 10am to 2pm, the Kona Coffee Council will be holding its Annual Cream of the Crop coffee and dessert tasting competition at the Hualalai Four Seasons Resort in the Haku Amphitheater. Admission is free. Twenty-one select Kona coffee growers will each have booths in the amphitheater providing sample cups of their brewed coffee along with education about coffee growing and processing in the Kona region of the Big Island of Hawaii. The competition is divided into three categories of coffee growing: Organic, Estate and Open, which allows all growers an opportunity to participate in the event. To complement the delicious coffee there will be live Hawaiian music, & chefs from local restaurants and resorts, as well as amateurs, will be offering desserts made with Kona coffee as one of the ingredients. Visitors to the event will be encouraged to vote for their favorite coffee in the three categories. Local chefs will be voting for their favorite coffees as well, so visitors can see how their votes compare to those of professionals. Finally, the desserts will be judged by a panel, and the results of the voting will be announced before the end of the day. Interspersed with the coffee and dessert booths will be a number of local artists who will be demonstrating, and have for sale, coffee related arts. This event is being sponsored by the Hualalai at Four Seasons Resort, The Hawaii Department of Agriculture, and the Kona Coffee Council. For more information, call 808/328-1666, email jimmonk@alum.mit.edu

July TBA, 2010
4th ANNUAL FIL-AM FRIENDSHIP DOUBLES TENNIS TOURNAMENT - KEAUHOU, KONA
The Kona Visayan Club (KVC) will host the Annual Philippine American Friendship Doubles Tennis Tournament at the Holua Tennis Center at Mauna Loa Village. The event categories of the tournament are recreational, men's, women's and mixed doubles. Trophies and champion T-shirts will be awarded to the winners of each category. Free tournament shirts will be given to the first 50 registered and paid players and free food and drinks will be available to the players. KVC is a non-profit organization and proceeds from this fund-raising will support scholarship grants to high school graduates in Kona. For details about the event, please visit the website http://www.gonnalove-it.com/tennis or call Lovette Llantos at 217-9671 or Michael Possman at 327-2143, or email lovette@hawaii.rr.com for more info.

July TBA, 2010
HULIHE'E PALACE MONTHLY SUNDAY CONCERT SERIES AND VILLAGE STROLL - KAILUA-KONA
Free Hawaiian Music Concert featuring the Merrie Monarchs men's glee club and dancing by the halau of Etua Lopez on the Palace's South Lawn at 4 p.m., presented by the Daughters of Hawaii. Bring your own beach mat or chair. Before and after the Concert, stroll thru Kailua Village (the Stroll starts at 1pm & goes till 6pm), enjoy outdoor cafe's and restaurants, local musicians & artists. Special kama'aina pricing at participating restaurants & merchants. Stroll sponsored by the Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce, Destination Kona Coast, Kailua Village Business Improvement District, and Kailua Village Merchants Association. For more info about the Palace concert, email hulihee@ilhawaii.net. For info about the Village Stroll, email info@kona-kohala.com

July TBA, 2010
ANNUAL DAIFUKUJI ORCHID SHOW, HONALO
Kona's oldest orchid club offers attendees complimentary refreshments, plus an orchid boutonniere corsage - while they last. Time is 8 a.m.-2 p.m. with a rousing 10 a.m. performance by the Daifukuji MissionÕs Taiko drummers. Veteran club members will staff a Question and Answer Booth where attendees can get expert advice on caring for orchids. In addition to informative educational displays, the annual event offers an outdoor sale of high quality orchid species and hybrids. The club meets the second Wednesday of every month at the Daifukuji Soto Mission Hall on Hwy. 11 at mile marker 114, just north of Kainaliu, just south of Teshima's restaurant. For information, contact club president Laura Jennison at 938-2123.

August

Wednesday mornings
"HAWAI'IANA LIVE!" - PALACE THEATER, HILO
Join Leilehua Yuen in this local's-eye-view of Hawai'i Island each Wednesday in Hilo's historic Palace Theater. Through traditional chant and storytelling, music, hula, and video featurettes, Leilehua explores different facets of Hawai'i Island. Topics and films change weekly as the program revolves around the Hawaiian lunar calendar, and surprise guests and musicians often appear. A few of the past guests are Mary Ann Lim, Keoki Kahumoku, Leina'ala Lassiter, Diana Aki, and Stan Kaina. Sometimes there is hula! The show also features Bob Alder on the theater's historic pipe organ, playing some of Hawai'i's most beloved melodies. Wednesday mornings, 11:00 to 11:45am, except Christmas and New Year weeks. Admission: $5; kids free. Palace Theater, 38 Haili St. Hilo. Call 934-7010 for more information.

August 1, 2009
MANGO FESTIVAL AT KEAUHOU SHOPPING CENTER, KONA
This inaugural event offers all-day educational fun celebrating the nutrient-rich mango, from 8 a.m. till noon at the Keauhou Farmers' Market at Keauhou Shopping Center. In addition to browsing for Hawai'i-made and grown food, check out a free farmer-chef presentation at 10 a.m., complete with a cooking demo and taste sampling. Mango mania continues from 2-6 p.m. at the Kona Mango Experience where attendees can learn how to grow and prepare mango for eating, vote for the best mango-inspired art, enjoy live entertainment and shop for mango-themed gifts at the Keauhou Beach Resort's Royal Garden. Admission is $10 and includes a complimentary Kona Brewing Company beverage or the festival's mango coloring book. The event culminates with a magnificent mango meal prepared by top local chefs at the 6:30 p.m. mango-Inspired dinner at Keauhou Beach Resort. Mango Festival 2009 is a zero waste event and is presented by the non-profit Sanctuary of Mana Ke'a Gardens. Sponsors include the Kona County Farm Bureau, 50th Anniversary of Statehood Commission, Keauhou Beach Resort, Kona Brewing Company, Complete Art Service Hawaii, Produce to Product, Inc., and Kareeza Design Company. For more information, phone 769-0672, email nkona@hawaii.rr.com or visit www.keauhoufarmersmarket.com and www.keauhoufarmersmarket.com/mango.html

August 1, 2009
ALOHA PERFORMING ARTS COMPANY GALA - KAINALIU
Aloha Performing Arts Company will present "An Evening with APAC and Andrew Lloyd Webber", its annual gala fundraising event, on August 1 at the Aloha Theatre in Kainaliu, starting at 6:30 p.m. The gala will feature silent and live auctions, gourmet food & drink, and live entertainment, consisting of the music of Andrew Lloyd Webber and sneak previews of APAC's next season. Tickets are $75. For more information, call 322-9924. Time: 6:30 pm at Aloha Theater, Kainaliu, Cost: $75.00. For information call: 322-9924 or email sam@apachawaii.org or visit apachawaii.org

August 1, 2009
TRAFFIC SKILLS 101 SMART CYCLING COURSE - KAILUA-KONA
Taught by League of American Bicyclists Certified Instructors, this 9 hour class will give you the confidence to ride in traffic and enjoy biking. Includes bike handling drills and experience riding in traffic. Both casual riders and experienced cyclists will have fun and benefit from this course. Cost: $30 per person - or bring a friend and the course is FREE for you! (or you each pay $15). Time: 8:30am-2:00pm at Hospice of Kona, Kailua-Kona. To register, or for more information, contact Bob Borns, PATH Education Director, at 345-3344, or email bob@pathhawaii.org More info at www.pathhawaii.org

August 1, 2009
PETROGLYPH WALK - HAWAII VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK
Residents and visitors are invited to join the exciting "Pu'uloa Petroglyph Walk" from 7:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Saturday, August 1st. Participants will get to see hundreds of ancient symbols carved into lava over countless generations. HVNP Park Ranger Andrea Kaawaloa-Okita will lead this easy to moderate hike, which totals 1.5 miles roundtrip. The ranger will share stories that will help connect viewers to the Hawaiian people who created these beautiful and mysterious images. The archaeological site of PuÕuloa contains over 23,000 petroglyph imagesÉmotifs of circles, other geometric as well as cryptic designs, human representations known as anthropomorphs, canoe sails, and even feathered cape motifs. There will also be opportunities to learn about the plant life in the hot, dry, and windswept coastal lowlands. The Walk is sponsored by the non-profit Friends of Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. A fee of $25 includes a light morning snack (Friends' members receive a discount). Reservations can be made by calling the Friends' office at 985-7373 or by emailing admin@fhnvp.org

August 1, 6 and 15, 2009
"LEAP! THE MOVIE" - KAILUA-KONA
Leap! is a complete paradigm shift in how you can live your life from a deep knowing of your true self. It shows each of us what amazing, creative beings we are in all areas of our life. Leap! offers a variety of different perspectives from spiritual visionaries and philosophers who have come to similar conclusions. It shows that taking responsibility for all the "good" and "bad" things in our life is the first step to true freedom, and that you can leap beyond the limitations of the human experience. Experience Leap! at the Aloha Center for Spiritual Living on Saturday, August 1; Thursday, August 6; or Saturday, August 15, from 7:00 -8:30PM. Suggested donation $7. See the preview at leapmovie.com. The Aloha Center is located in Kona on Hualalai Rd. just above Kaiser Clinic on the makai side. For more info, call 331-2275, visit AlohaCSL.org or email alohacenter@live.com

August 7-9, 2009
57th ANNUAL HILO ORCHID SOCIETY SHOW & SALE
Thousands of orchids on display created by top notch growers and amateurs will entice audiences in this three day orchid extravaganza at Edith Kanaka'ole Stadium. A sales area will offer orchid and plant related products plus, of course, gorgeous orchids for purchase, including some you won't find in your typical retail garden store or nursery. Information about orchids and their cultivation will be offered in free mini-classes conducted by experts. Instruction on flower arranging with orchids will also be provided. Show times are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday. Admission is by donation of $4 at the door or $2 in advance. For more information, call 808-934-0552 or email sherylhilo@yahoo.com

August 8, 2009
"PHOTOGRAPHING YOUR ART WORK" WORKSHOP, WAIMEA
This workshop is for those who want to learn how to photograph their own artwork for galleries or competitions. Many galleries are not requesting a digital format submission over slides. Artists in any medium are invited to learn how to capture the needed images for gallery review, competitions, or making your own photographic prints. Taught by popular, local professional photographer, Robert Frutos. Time: 11:30AM to 5:00 PM at Waimea Community Education Facility on Mamalahoa Highway, Waimea. Cost: $65. For more information, call (808) 885-1539, email cindy@waimeaeducation.com or visit www.waimeaeducation.com

August 8-9, 2009
BIPACC VOICE ACTING/VOICE-OVER WORKSHOP - HILO
Big Island Performing Arts Community Center, co-sponsored by the University of Hawaii-Hilo Performing Arts Center will be offering a 2 day voice acting workshop August 8th and 9th at the UHH rehearsal room. Learn all about the VO business and how to get started in this creative and challenging career. Time: August 8th, 9:00 AM - 3:00PM, August 9th, 9:00AM - 12:00PM at University of Hawai'i at Hilo Music Room PB-8, Hilo, Cost: $40.00 ($35.00 for UHH students). For more information, call 808-217-6627, email workshop@bipacc.com or visit www.yisavar.com

August 9, 2009
"TIGER RISING" TO PERFORM AT BANYAN SACTUARY, KAILUA-KONA
Andy Rising, cello, and Stephen Cline, guitar, will perform at 3:30pm at Banyan Sanctuary. $12 donation. Directions: Up Palani, 1 mile past Hina Lani light, left (makai) at entrance to Hualalai Vistas (new subdivision), straight down to bottom of the hill, park at gate, walk to right 100 feet on Kohanaiki Road, which ends in Banyan Tree Driveway. Please RSVP to Amira or Benjamin at 325-2222. Though the room is carpeted, bring a beach chair or pillow.

August 15, 2009
HAWAII'S ANNUAL WORLD HERITAGE FESTIVAL - HILO
Downtown Hilo's historic Mooheau Bandstand, right across from the famous Hilo Farmers Market, is the site for this free celebration of Hawaii's tapestry of people. From 10 a.m. until 3 p.m., non-stop entertainment and exhibitions will showcase the cultures of the people who over the centuries have made Hawaii their home, through fashion, performances, storytelling, demonstrations, and much more. A "World Bazaar & Marketplace" offers up Hawaii made and international arts, crafts and products as well as an international food court to suit almost all tastes. Info: (808) 933-9772, visit www.poshfestivals.com or email amooninfo@bigisland.com

August 15-16, 2009
ESTABLISHMENT DAY HAWAIIAN FESTIVAL - KAWAIHAE
The public is invited to join the to participate in the cultural demonstrations and workshop activities in Pelekane (royal courtyard) located near the beach below Pu'ukohola Heiau with only one stipulation: that each visitor learns at least one craft before leaving the area to help preserve a part of the Hawaiian culture. Parking will be on the coral flats south of Kawaihae Harbor. More than 20 hands-on arts and craft workshops and demonstrations will be available, including lei haku, ame lei wili (ancient lei making), hana hu (making spinning tops), hana kapa kuiki (quilting), Hawaiian games, kahili (feather standards), ulanalauhala (lauhala weaving), holo wa'a (canoe rides) and more. Local musicians will play songs of Hawaii. Bring water and lunch if planning to stay the entire day. It is recommended that comfortable clothing be worn and the use some type of sunscreen. PNHP is located about a mile south of Kawaihae on the Kohala Coast. Call (808) 882-7218 or visit www.nps.gov.puhe

August 15-16, 2009
HAWAII ISLAND HUMANE SOCIETY'S HORSE EXPO 2009 - WAIMEA
The Hawaii Horse Expo will be held at the Kahilu Theatre and adjacent grounds in Waimea. Proceeds benefit the Humane Society's Horse Rescue Fund. Noted experts participating include Dr. Robert Miller, renowned equine behaviorist, author, and lecturer; Dale Myler, training using the right bit; Jack Brainard, Texas trainer, featured clinician, master of the flying lead change, Advanced Horsemanship; and Rick Lamb, host of RFD TV's "The Horse Show" as moderator for the program. Tax deductible tickets start as low as $25.00 per day. For more information, call 808-329-1175, email NANJON08@aol.com or visit www.HawaiiHorseExpo.com

August 16, 2008
PROJECT COMPASSION - SPECIAL OLYMPICS WEST HAWAII FUNDRAISER, KAILUA-KONA
Come down to the Kona Denny's on August 16 from 4pm to 9pm for a Special Olympics West Hawaii fundraiser. All tips and 20% of the dinner bills will go to Special Olympics West Hawaii to help support their mission of providing sports activities and competitions to mentally-challenged West Hawaii residents. All Special Olympics participants pay no out-of-pocket expenses for training, competitions or travel. Special Olympics receives no federal or state funding and relies on the generous support of West Hawaii residents and visitors for funding. Come out to Denny's on August 16 for a meal and support a great cause. For more information, call 808-329-6077, email brian@konaimpact.com or visit http://www.sowh.org/

August 19, 2009
"KONA COUNTRY MUSIC NIGHT" BENEFIT - MIXX BISTRO, KAILUA-KONA
Come out and support Kimberly Hawks as she continues on to the Colgate Country Showdown State Finals in Reno, NV on August 28, 2009. The Mixx Bar and Bistro is hosting "Kona Country Music Night" from 8pm to midnight. This will be a great evening of music performed by Kimberly, DJ and Dancing by Five Star Entertainment and a few guest performances. There will be a raffle and a silent auction as well, and Kimberly will be autographing pictures. Help us raise the funds needed to send Kimberly to State Finals. She is sure to represent Hawaii well and put Kona on the country music map. There is a $5.00 cover/donation; pre-sale tickets are available at Tiana's Avon and Wigs, Kona Business Center, and Tasty Thai. For more information, call 808-315-5257, email info@kimberlyhawks.com or visit www.kimhawks.com

August 22, 2009
11th ANNUAL TASTE OF LIFE BENEFIT - SHERATON KEAUHOU BAY
Benefit for the Hawai'i Island HIV/AIDS Foundation. Taste the special creations of Kona's finest chefs. Wine and beer selections will be available for every taste. Bid on a truly amazing variety of auction items, including Activities, Art, Collectibles, Services, and Kids items - and the most unusual gift baskets you've ever seen. Live music and dancing too! Check with HIHAF and the Sheraton for special room rates. Tickets $75.00 advance/$85.00 at the door. Reserved, private tables for ten people $1000.00; limited seating. Tickets available at Pictures Plus, and the Hawaii Island HIV/AIDS Foundation. Call HIHAF's Kona Office at 331-8177; Kea'au Office 982-8800. Time: 6:00PM at Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort & Spa, Kona. For more info, email david@hihaf.org

August 22, 2009
KEOLA BEAMER & JAZZ VIRTUOSO GEOFFREY KEEZER WITH SPECIAL GUEST RAIATEA HELM - KAHILU THEATRE, WAIMEA
Tickets $25; Kids under 12, $12. Box office: 885-6868, Mon-Fri, 9am-3pm.

August 22, 2009
1st ANNUAL DON THE BEACHCOMBER MAI TAI FESTIVAL - ROYAL KONA RESORT
Bartenders from across the globe will compete in the 1st Annual Don the Beachcomber Mai Tai Festival...all hoping to capture the $10,000 cash prize! The day's festivities start with a Big Island Marketplace in the Royal Kona Resort's porte cochere - free and open to the public, from 10am-2pm. The 1st Annual Battle of the BBQ will also be taking place from 10am-2pm, at at the RKR Luau grounds; 8 restaurants will battle for People's Choice awards. There will be food tasting booths and live entertainment. $15 adults, $7 keiki 12and under; all ages. From 1pm-2pm, Beachbum Berry (famed Mai Tai Expert) will present "The Mai Tai Paternity Test: Who is the true founder of the Mai Tai - Don the Beachcomber or Trader Vic?". Seminar and tasting. $30/person, 21 years and up; limited seating! The 1st Annual Don the Beachcomber Battle for the World's Best Mai Tai - doors will open at 5:30pm for pupus and no-host cocktails. Front row seats for the Mai Tai Mix-Off and 10K cash prize presentation PLUS entry to the HAPA concert = $65, for those 21 years and up. HAPA Concert tickets will also be sold separately for $30/all ages. Bacardi, one of the event sponsors, will host a Pool Party the next day (Sunday), with many free gifts, great entertainment (and a little "hair of the dog?"). For room rates, please call 808-329-3111 and reference THE MAI TAI FESTIVAL. For more information, call 808-214-8133, email liz@hawaiianhotels.com or visit www.hawaiianhotels.com

August 23, 2009
SPECIAL CELEBRATION OF STATEHOOD - PRECEDING THE MONTHLY VILLAGE STROLL, KAILUA-KONA
There will be two very special, free, presentations before the Village Stroll this month to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Hawaii's statehood. Enjoy Na Lei O Koholoku, Merrie Monarch Hula Festival over-all winners, led by Kumu hula Leialoha Amina and his sister Kumu Hula Nani Lim Yap from 1-2:20pm, and the music of the legendary Makaha Sons from 3-4pm. Alii Drive will be closed to traffic from 1-6pm.

August 23, 2009
HULIHE'E PALACE MONTHLY SUNDAY CONCERT SERIES AND VILLAGE STROLL - KAILUA-KONA
Free Hawaiian Music Concert featuring the Merrie Monarchs men's glee club and dancing by the halau of Etua Lopez on the Palace's South Lawn at 4 p.m., presented by the Daughters of Hawaii. Bring your own beach mat or chair. Before and after the Concert, stroll thru Kailua Village (the Stroll starts at 1pm & goes till 6pm), enjoy outdoor cafe's and restaurants, local musicians & artists. Special kama'aina pricing at participating restaurants & merchants. Stroll sponsored by the Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce, Destination Kona Coast, Kailua Village Business Improvement District, and Kailua Village Merchants Association. For more info about the Palace concert, email hulihee@ilhawaii.net. For info about the Village Stroll, email info@kona-kohala.com

August 28-30, 2009
"ENLIGHTEN UP" MOVIE FUNDRAISER - ALOHA THEATER, KAINALIU
Proceeds to benefit Keoua Honaunau Canoe Club's cultural and youth programs (Big Island yoga teacher and Keoua Canoe Club president, Norman Allen, also appears in the film). The movie will be presented on Friday, August 28th at 7pm, with a VIP reception at 6pm; Saturday 2:30pm and 7pm; and Sunday the 29th at 2:30pm. Tickets available at the door or by presale at various locations. For more info, call 989-4883 or email suzanne@coffeeofkona.com Catch the preview at http://enlightenupthefilm.com

August 29, 2009
SEAN NA'AUAO IN CONCERT, KEAUHOU SHOPPING CENTER
Writer and performer of "Drop Baby Drop" and "Fish and Poi" Sean Na'auao will perform August 29th at Keauhou Shopping Center. Show starts at 6pm. Admission: two cans of food per person, which will go to Hawaii Food Basket. Sean starts at 6:30pm. Three finalists from the recent Hui Kako'o Talent search will open at 6pm - be sure to vote for your favorites! Bring more than two cans of food, and for each extra can get a chance to win a Nail Tech gift certificate or dinner for two from Rocky's Pizza. Time: 6-7:30 pm at Kai Malo'o stage near Longs Drug. For more information, call 808-386-4271, email ken@attitudesmarketing.com or visit www.keauhoushoppingcenter.com

August 30, 2009
HAWAII PARROT HEAD CLUB MEETING - KAILUA-KONA
Jimmy Buffet fans, "phlock" with the Hawaii Parrot Head Club at Lulu's on Ali'i Drive. Live entertainment! Time: 1:00 PM till ? Free to the public. For more information, call 808-960-0838, email hawaiiparrotheadclub@gmail.com or visit www.hawaiiparrotheads.com

September

Wednesday mornings
"HAWAI'IANA LIVE!" - PALACE THEATER, HILO
Join Leilehua Yuen in this local's-eye-view of Hawai'i Island each Wednesday in Hilo's historic Palace Theater. Through traditional chant and storytelling, music, hula, and video featurettes, Leilehua explores different facets of Hawai'i Island. Topics and films change weekly as the program revolves around the Hawaiian lunar calendar, and surprise guests and musicians often appear. A few of the past guests are Mary Ann Lim, Keoki Kahumoku, Leina'ala Lassiter, Diana Aki, and Stan Kaina. Sometimes there is hula! The show also features Bob Alder on the theater's historic pipe organ, playing some of Hawai'i's most beloved melodies. Wednesday mornings, 11:00 to 11:45am, except Christmas and New Year weeks. Admission: $5; kids free. Palace Theater, 38 Haili St. Hilo. Call 934-7010 for more information.

September 1, 2009
FREE FAMILY LITERACY PROGRAM, "BOOKS ARE BUILDING BLOCKS" - KONA PUBLIC LIBRARY
The Friends of the Libraries, Kona (F.O.L.K.) will host a free family literacy program, "Books are Building Blocks" from 5 to 7 PM on Tuesday, September 1st. This program will continue to be offered the first Tuesday evening of each month and will give families the opportunity to enjoy books being read aloud, for children ages 5-7, 8-10 and a tween group as well. The adults will have their own reading group and must attend the program with their child(ren). Participants will enjoy an hour of reading followed by a free book swap/giveaway for children and adults, as well as refreshments and door prizes. This family reading program, which coincides with the children's return to school, is intended to foster family bonding and promote literacy. A half hour introduction to the library will be featured from 4:30 -5PM on Sept. 1st for those unfamiliar with its services and how to apply for a library card. A similar program called Read Aloud America will be happening at Konawaena and Hookena Elementary schools this fall. Join both! Reading increases a child's chances for success in school and beyond, and it’s FUN! F.O.L.K. is seeking volunteers with a dramatic flair to read aloud to children or adults. Whether you commit to one time or ongoing readings, your help is needed and appreciated. For more information, please call Lisa Thomas at 443-1093, email folkhawaii@yahoo.com or visit www.geocities.com/Konalibraries

September 2, 2009
HAWAII HOMEOWNERSHIP CENTER ORIENTATION - KAILUA-KONA
Are tough economic times causing you to put your financial plans on hold? Hawaii HomeOwnership Center is a non-profit organization whose mission is educating families in financial literacy. Home buyer education and counseling is also provided. This is a free presentation open to the public. Call to reserve a space at 930-7661. Time: 6-7 PM at Mayor's Office Conference Room, Kailua- Kona. For more information, call 930-7614, email hanah@hihomeownership.org or visit www.hihomeownership.org

September 3, 2009
COMMUNITY COQUI FROG CONTROL FUNDRAISER - KEALAKEKUA
This is a fundraiser and educational event which will provide information on the importance of eradicating the coqui frog, as well as education, methods and what the community effort has been so far. All contributions are tax deductible. There will be a Potluck & Party - Bring food to share. Businesses supporting Community Coqui Control are Home Depot, Sports Authority, Island Naturals Mauka, and Gemini Awakening. Volunteers are needed! Time: 6:pm at Yano Hall across from Manago Hotel, Captain Cook. For more information, call 328-8533, email keepkonaquiet@yahoo.com or visit http://hawaiicoquifrogblog.blogspot.com/

September 4, 2009
13th ANNUAL TASTE OF HAWAII ISLAND - BENEFIT, FOUR SEASONS RESORT HUALALAI
The The Taste of Hawaii Island at Four Seasons Resort kicks off a two-day weekend event to benefit cancer research. Feast on the bounty of Hawai'i at this signature culinary event celebrating the culinary artistry of the island's finest chefs and restaurants. The popular silent auction is a highlight of this evening of fun, food, drinks, and live entertainment. Reservations by Wednesday, September 2, 2009; pricing subject to change. Time: 6:00-9:00 pm at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, Kona. Cost:$80 Adults/$40 Children. For more information, call the Event Hotline at 808.325.8052, email monica.balanay@fourseasons.com or visit http://www.fsrh.net/pr/taste_golf_tennis.pdf

September 4, 2009
THE VARIETIES OF CULTURAL, ETHNIC AND RELIGIOUS EXPERIENCE AT THE END-OF-LIFE - WORKSHOP, HOSPICE OF HILO
This new community-based education series, sponsored by Hospice of Hilo, will explore the varieties of cultural and religious practice surrounding death and dying that make up Hawaii's rich multi-ethnic environment. Each workshop is dedicated to a particular ethnic or religious community's perspectives on the end-of-life and its care. By addressing the same basic set of questions (Why do people die? What is the relationship between the living and the dead? What is an appropriate way to die? How should we relate to the dying?) in each workshop, we seek not only to educate ourselves to the often unspoken needs of particular communities, but also find ways to better serve individuals and families across the boundaries of race and religion. Workshop topic on September 4th will cover Perspectives from India, from 8:30-11:30 a.m. in the Hospice of Hilo Community Center, 1011 Waianuenue Ave. $25 workshop registration, scholarship available. Space is limited; early registration is encouraged. For more information, call 969-1733, email hospice@hospiceofhilo.org or visit www.hospiceofhilo.org

September 4-6, 2009
WAIKOLOA BEACH RESORT - HAWAIIAN CULTURAL WEEKEND
Waikoloa Beach Resort celebrates the endurance of the Hawaiian culture with a wonderful mix of Hawaiian arts and crafts, hula performances, food and live entertainment. The Waikoloa Beach Marriott will host the Ms. Aloha Nui Pageant at 6pm on Sept. 4th for wahine over 200 lbs., The Great Waikoloa Poke Contest at from 11am to 2 pm on Sept. 5th where home cooks and professional chefs compete in creating Hawaii's "soul food" (the audience gets to taste the entries after judging), and the annual Kindy Sproat Falsetto & Storytelling Contest on Sept. 6th from 2-6pm. Call (808) 886-8822 or visit http://waikoloabeachresort.com/big-island-activities-events/?c=Special-Annual

September 5, 2009
13th ANNUAL RUN FOR HOPE - FOUR SEASONS HUALALAI RESORT
Run for Hope is a non-competitive 10K run - 5K run/walk event. Proceeds from this event benefit cancer research in Hawaii. Post walk/run gathering includes light breakfast and drawing for door prizes. Time: 7:00 am start at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, Kailua-Kona, Cost: $25 minimum donation. For information call (808) 325-8036, email carrie.holder@fourseasons.com or visit http://fshr.net/pr/run_for_hope.htm

September 5, 2009
THE DANIEL ROBERT SAYRE MEMORIAL FOUNDATION AWARDS BANQUET/BENEFIT
This Gala Dinner and Silent Auction at the Fairmont Orchid honors the heroes of the Hawaii County Fire Department who have risked their lives to save others. The silent auction will start at 4:30 PM with dinner commencing at 6PM. Those who would like an invitation may call 329-8067 and leave their name and number or they may contactÊwww.DanielSayreFoundation.com. Donations from the silent auction go to purchase much needed rescue/emergency equipment and advanced training for the HCFD. For more info, emailÊmallerysayre@hawaii.rr.com

September 5-9, 2009
35th ANNUAL PARKER RANCH ROUND-UP CLUB RODEO
This exciting two-day event is held annually at the Parker Ranch Rodeo Arena in Waimea as a fundraiser to provide scholarships for school-age children of Parker Ranch employees. The highly anticipated event celebrates its 35th year with loads of family-style fun. Time: noon, Sat.; 1pm, Sun., at Parker Ranch Rodeo Arena, Waimea. Free to the public. For more information, call 808-885-5669 or email activities@parkerranch.com or visit www.parkerranch.com

September 5-6, 2009
QUEEN LILI'UOKALANI LONG DISTANCE CANOE RACES
The world's largest long distance canoe race, attended by paddlers from all over the world. Two days of racing, with the first day being the single-hull canoe races, followed by double hull and one-person canoe races on Sunday. Crews from Hawaii, the US mainland, and around the world come to enter this world class event. The fun includes a crafts fair on the Pier all day Saturday and Sunday, a torchlight parade and dance on Saturday night, and an awards luau on Sunday. (Ali'i Drive wil be closed to traffic from Palani Rd. to Hualalai Rd. on Saturday at dusk, for a half an hour, for the Parade.) For more info, call 331-8849 or 939-8577, or visit http://www.kaiopua.org/ql/

September 5 and 6, 2009 KONA SLACK KEY WORKSHOP WITH DON KAULI'A AND SPECIAL GUESTS WALTER KEALE AND PALI
Saturday - Workshop 1 at Kona International Marketplace: 8-9am Kona Brothers Coffee; 9am-4pm Stage Area.
[There will be a "Mini Jam Session" with in-house guest artist at the Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort's Crystal Blue Lounge from 6-9pm Saturday nite.]
Sunday -Workshop 2 at Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort's Ballroom Lawn Area from 9-11:30am.
Workshop students will perform with Artists at the 2009 Hawaii Slack Key Festival at noon at Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort's Concert Lawn.
RSVP before August 31, 2009. Email konaslackkey@gmail.com

September 6, 2009
ANNUAL HAWAII SLACK KEY GUITAR FESTIVAL - KEAUHOU, KONA
This annual festival which features the greats of slack key guitar, will be held at the Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort & Spa, from 12-6pm. Food and drink will be available for purchase; no outside food or beverages allowed. WEAR A HAT; BRING AN UMBRELLA FOR SHADE. Free admission. Call 226-2697 for more info. (Konabob will be playing his Walkingbass with Don Kauli'a and his slack key workshop students at noon!)

September 6, 2009
LOCAL ARTISTS SHOW - SHERATON KEAUHOU BAY RESORT
Local artists show featuring pottery, wood carving, quilting, jewelry, wearable art, watercolors, wall art, Hawaiiana and much more. Time: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM at Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort - Convention Center. Free to the public. Stop in while you're at the Slack Key Festival! For information, call 808 937-6111 or email sassybydonna@hawaii.rr.com

September 7, 2009
UP COUNTRY FAIRE - KEALAKEKUA
Christ Church will hold its 8th annual Up Country Faire, Monday, Sept. 7, from 9am to 2pm. There will be fun for the entire family, with games & prizes, a bouncy castle and a climbing wall. Great food at the Country Cafe - enjoy a special treat or a jar of homemade preserves or mango chutney from the Sugar Shack. The Great Baruski will be performing sleight of hand at 1:00 pm, and, new this year, the Kona Masonic Lodge will be offering a free Keiki ID program. Tupperware will have a booth, as well. Christ Church is located at the corner of Konawaena School Rd & Mamalahoa Hwy. in Kealakekua, just below the high school. There are over 3000 square feet under cover, so the Faire will take place rain or shine! Free to the public. For more information, call 323-3429 or email admin@christchurchkona.com

September 7, 2009
POTLUCK "EAT IN" - WAIKOLOA AND WAIMEA
Over 250 schools across the nation will hold community "Eat Ins" to support an improved Child Nutrition Act. This bill governs school lunches and is coming up for review before Congress this fall. We all want to see healthy school lunches for our keiki. There will be door prizes, activities for kids and Tropical Dreams Ice Cream. Bring a homecooked potluck dish to share (cook with your kids, if can!) Also bring your own plates and utensils. Time: 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Waikoloa School and Waimea Middle School Cafeterias, Waikoloa and Waimea. For information call 883-2629 or email cbobo@hawaii.rr.com

September 8, 2009
KONA TOWN MEETING - OLD AIRPORT BEACH PARK
Come listen to our State Department of Transportation and Hawaii County Department of Public Works Directors and ask your questions about Kona Road Projects, such as Queen Ka'ahumanu, Phase Two, Ane Keohokalole Mid-Level Road, Lako, La'aloa and Mamalahoa Bypass. Guest speakers are Jiro Sumada, Deputy Director of State Highways; Warren Lee, Director of HI Co. Public Works; Galen Kuba, Division Head of DPW Engineering; and Ron Thiel, Division Head of DPW Traffic. Councilman Kelly Greenwell will provide a Council update. The Kona Town Meeting will start at 6 PM and conclude at 8:00 PM at Makaeo Events Pavilion at the Old Kona airport. Kona Town Meetings are presented by Community Enterprises, a non-partisan, non-profit organization, to provide vital information on community concerns to Kona citizens. Light refreshments will be served. For more information, contact Fred Housel at 331-8602 or email Fred@kieleokona.com

September 10, 2009
ALI'I KAI PARK PLANNING MEETING - KAILUA-KONA
The Kona community is invited to discuss plans for a community park in the Ali'i Kai Subdivision on Thursday, September 10, at Kahakai Elementary School Cafeteria at 6:30 p.m. The park was part of the developer's plan more than thirty years ago, but was never built. The County park site on Lehua Road, just mauka of Pakalana Road, off Royal Poinciana, has remained as a vacant lot. Now there are plans in progress to turn the empty lot into a neighborhood park. The community is invited to review preliminary designs and give their ideas. For more info, call Council Member Brenda Ford's office at 326-5684 or email bford@co.hawaii.hi.us

September 12, 2009
FOREST EDUCATION FAIR - NIAULANI CAMPUS, VOLCANO VILLAGE
Learn about Volcano area forests and Hawaiian cultural connections in this one-day open house. The fair features a native plant sale, hula and music performances, and educational displays about rare and endangered flora and fauna as well as about invasive plant and animal species. Hands-on demonstrations show the connection between the forest, Hawaiian arts and crafts, and traditional and contemporary usages of Hawai'i's plants. Cultural practitioners and educators present a variety of hands-on activities, from lei making and kapa beating to printing with plants and learning songs about the forest. Guides lead the informative "Niaulani Nature Walk," given every hour on the hour. The first walk at 10 a.m. is designed specifically for children and their families. Volcano Art Center's Niaulani Campus in Volcano Village (corner of Kalanikoa & Old Volcano Roads). Free (calabash donations welcome). Call (808) 967-8222 or visitÊwww.volcanoartcenter.org.

September 12, 2009
"HAPPY HANGAHP" EXTRAVAGANZA - HILO
"Happy Hangahp" (60th Birthday in Korean culture) is a fundraiser for the Kea'au Youth Business Center to keep the dreams of local youths alive through their artistic expression. Spearheaded by psychologist and award-winning performing artist Professor Trina Nahm-Mijo, the extravaganza features a live and silent auction, gourmet appetizers, hula, original cheoreography, and Japanese court music. Advance tickets are available on the KYBC website at www.kybc808.com. Time: 5:30PM at University of Hawaii at Hilo Performing Arts Center. Cost: General $25; Seniors/Students $20; Premiere seats $50. For more information, call 808/966-6354, email nahmmijo@hawaii.edu or visit the KYBC website.

September 12, 2009
BOOK SALE - KAILUA-KONA PUBLIC LIBRARY
The Friends of the Libraries, Kona (FOLK), will hold its next Book Sale on Saturday, September 12th from 9 AM to 1 PM on the lanai of the Kailua-Kona Library. Funds from sales help support the needs of Kona libraries with funding that includes educational and entertainment programs, community summer reading programs, visiting authors, magazine subscriptions, CD's, DVD's and new book purchases. Volunteers are welcome; if you find yourself willing and able, please call 323-2117. For more information, call 323-2117, email folkhawaii@yahoo.com or visit www.geocities.com/Konalibraries

September 12, 2009
"FLIP OUT" TALK STORY WITH LOCAL FILIPINA - HAKALAU
Lorraine Godoy, Angie Libadisos, and Sandi Claveria, local Filipina in their 60's, tell their life stories, exploring myths about Filipinos. They cut deep to the jugular with wry & caustic humor, and share profoundly moving & diverse recollections of growing up in Hawaii. And now, what about their grown children, grandchildren and great grandchildren? What legacy will they pass on? What is Filipino? What is the future? Time: 7-8:30 p.m. at Akiko's Buddhist B&B, Hakalau. Cost: $5 donation for "finger foods". For information and reservations, call 963-6422, email msakiko@hawaii.rr.com or visit www.alternative-hawaii.com/akiko/calendar.htm

September 12 and 13, 2009
LAVAMAN TRIATHLON & SPORTS FESTIVAL
Activities on Saturday include a Family Health, Sports and Fitness Expo, "Health Grinds" Contest & Sampling at Keauhou Shopping Center, and LavaKids Youth Aquathon, Keiki Dash & Picnic at Kahalu'u Beach Park. On Sunday, the first annual Lavaman Keauhou Triathlon will start at 7am. The event is open to elite and age group athletes of all levels, and to relay teams. Entry fee applies. There will be an Awards Banquet & Beach Party at the end of the day. For more information, call 877/532-8468 or visit www.lavamantriathlon.com

September 13, 2009
"GIVE A BUDDY INDEPENDENCE" CHAMPAGNE BRUNCH "FUN"RAISER - WAIMEA
Give A Buddy Independence (GABI) is a weekly therapeutic equestrian program for people with disabilities. Classes are held at Iolani Stables in Honokaa. Help raise money for those riders who lack funds to continue riding due to state funding cuts. Time: 10:00 AM -2 PM at Huli Sue's restaurant, Waimea. Cost: $50/person. For more information, call 808/896-6849 or email susimod@gmail.com

September 13, 2009
"COOL FUSION" FUNDRAISER - DONKEY MILL ART CENTER, HOLUALOA
Guests have the opportunity to select a hand-thrown ceramic bowl to keep and bring home with them after they fill their tummies with Japanese cold noodles and fresh vegetables topped with a fine homemade broth (no MSG). More ceramic bowls also available for sale. Time: 12:00-3:00pm. Cost: $20/member, $25/non-HFAC member. For more information, call 322-3362, email hfac.dmac@hawaiiantel.net or visit www.donkeymillartcenter.org

September 15, 2009
KAILUA-KONA PUBLIC LIBRARY BOOK CLUB MEETING
The Kailua-Kona Library Book Club will meet from 11am till 1pm on the lanai of the Kailua-Kona Library. "The Sixteen Pleasures", a work of fiction by Robert Hellenga. Book Club meets again on October 20th to discuss "Angels Fall" which takes place on the Big Island. The author, local award winning mystery writer Baron Birtcher, will be in attendance. Sponsored by Friends of the Libraries, Kona. New members are welcome. Light refreshments will be served. For more information, call 325-5445, email folkhawaii@yahoo.com or visit www.geocities.com/Konalibraries

September 15, 2009
VANILLA CULTIVATION PROGRAM, KAILUA-KONA PUBLIC LIBRARY
Join Jim Reddekopp, founder of the Hawaiian Vanilla Co., for an in-depth presentation about the cultivation of vanilla at his vanillery and other plantations worldwide. Jim and wife Tracy are the first commercial growers of vanilla in the United States. Learn how a family dream turned into reality. Friends of the Libraries, Kona (FOLK) sponsors programs for the benefit of the Kona community. This program is offered free to the public. Time: 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM at Kailua-Kona Public Library. For more information, call 331-1781, email folkhawaii@yahoo.com or visit www.geocities.com/Konalibraries

September 15 thru October 20, 2009
THE ART OF HAWAIIAN QUILTING - HONOKA'A
Help preserve this tradition by learning the art from Ku'ulei Badua who is the president of the oldest Hawaiian quilting club in the islands. Participants will learn the meanings of the patterns taken from nature; the aloha of giving a quilt; and how to cut, baste and sew. Possible projects are a wall hanging or start of a full quilt. Participants will need to supply their own materials after the first class. For more info or to register, call 775-8890. Time: 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at North Hawai'i Education & Research Center (NHERC), Honoka'a. Cost: $60. For information call 775-8890 or email vickyann@hawaii.edu or visit http://www.hilo.hawaii.edu/academics/nherc/NHERCNon-Credit.php

September 16-17, 2009
KUPUNA HULA FESTIVAL - KEAUHOU
Some of Hawaii's most experienced and talented kupuna (elders) hula dancers will perform at this very popular annual event, which is a part of the 30 Days of Aloha Festival. It will also feature an appearance by the Royal Court. Doors open at 5pm; performances start at 5:30 p.m. at the Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort and Spa. There will also be a Hawaiian crafts fair from 8am-4pm for the two days of the festival in the Keauhou III and IV Ballrooms and the foyer of the hotel. For more information, call Kelley at (808) 322-1812.

September 17, 2009
DAYTIME GRIEF SUPPORT - HOSPICE OF HILO
Open to adults who have experienced a loss. Promoting healing in a warm & welcoming environment, groups are open-ended. Free. (Evening Grief Support also offered 2 days in September.) Time: 3:00-4:30 PM at 1011 Waianuenue Ave., Hilo. Please call to register @ 969-1733 or visit www.hospiceofhilo.org.

September 17-20, 2009
HAWAII COUNTY FAIR - HILO
This annual event, which is sponsored by the Hilo Jaycees, will take place at Hilo Civic Fairgrounds. For interested in commercial booths, call 987-1297; for community/non-profit booths, contact 935-1970; for food booths, call 865-4628.

September 18, 2009
"TASTE OF THE HAWAIIAN RANGE" AND AGRICULTURE FESTIVAL - HILTON WAIKOLOA VILLAGE
Over 30 of the state's premier chefs are set to dazzle diners during the Taste "grazing" extravaganza. Open to the public from 6-8 p.m., Taste of the Hawaiian Range features heavy sampling of delectable dishes using local grass-fed beef, pork, and lamb, plus a bounty of fresh, island-grown fruit and veggies. In addition, attendees can meet Hawai'iÕs food producers at gaily decorated vendor booths, and talk story with the farmers and ranchers who make a living growing our food. Tickets are $40 presale and $80 at the door. Tickets can be purchased islandwide at Komohana Ag Complex in Hilo, 808-981-5199; the Kamuela Extension Office in Waimea, 808-887-6182 and the Kona Extension Office in Kainaliu, 808-322-4892. Tickets are also on sale at Parker Ranch Store and Kamuela Liquors in Waimea, Kuhio Grille in Hilo, JJ's Country Market in Honoka'a, the Pahala Plantation Store in Ka'u, the Kona Wine Market in Kailua-Kona and the Hilton Waikoloa Village Kohala Essence Shop. For more information, visit http://www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/taste

September 18, 2009
KEOLA BEAMER & R. CARLOS NAKAI IN CONCERT AT THE PALACE THEATER, HILO
7:00 PM. Tickets $25. Call 808/934-7010 for more info, or visit the Palace Theater's website.

September 19, 2009
WAIMEA PANIOLO PARADE AND HO'OLAULE'A
The 10 am Paniolo Parade will start at "Church Row" and proceed to Waimea Park, featuring princesses on horseback with attendees (complete with "Pooper Scooper" brigades!) decorated with the flowers of their respective islands. The Parade is followed by one of the best crafts show of the year, featuring island foods, games, arts & crafts, Hawaiian products and live entertainment in Waimea Ball Park, from 11 am to 4 pm. Truly a great local family event! Note: 1 hour road closure. For more information, call Linda at 885-9259 or (808) 885-3110.

September 19, 2009
PEACE DAY AT PALEAKU GARDENS, HONAUNAU
Celebrate Peace Day at the Paleaku Peace Gardens, on Painted Church Rd. in Honaunau. Guest speakers, calligraphy, poetry reading, refreshments, self-guided garden tour. Sponsored by the Hawaii Association of International Buddhists. Time: 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Free to the public. For more information, call 325-2377, email jillw@hawaii.rr.com or visit www.paleaku.org

September 19, 2009 (Saturday)
"COMMEMORATING 50 YEARS OF STATEHOOD; A UNIQUE PERSPECTIVE" - KAILUA-KONA
The Public is invited to hear Kippin de Alba Chu, Chairman of the 50th Anniversary of Statehood Commission and Director of Iolani Palace, speak on the subject of Statehood and what it has meant for Hawaii. His presentation will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, September 19, 2009, at the Kealekehe High School Cafeteria. He is the guest of the Hawaii Loa Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR). De Alba Chu will explore the challenges faced by the Statehood Commission in recognizing this important milestone in an appropriate and respectful manner. Controversies regarding the Akaka Bill, Ceded Lands, and the Hawaiian sovereignty movement call into question what Statehood did not bring to Hawaii and its people. At the same time, we can also look back over the last 50 years to see what has been beneficial. Free to the public. For information call 808-937-2309 or email anikaglass.dar@gmail.com

September 20, 2009
3rd ANNUAL UNITED NATIONS' INTERNATIONAL PEACE DAY CELEBRATION - HONOKA'A
The town of Honoka'a on the Hamakua Coast of the Big Island joins the world in observing the United Nations' International Peace Day. This fun, free event for the whole family celebrates peace, compassion and awareness of global interdependence with a colorful parade down Mamane Street at 12 noon and community festival to follow at 1:00 p.m. Marching bands, hula troupes, Taiko drums, rock & roll, street performers and more - plus the Jesse White Tumblers return from Chicago to wow the Big Island with their awesome aerial acrobatics. For more information, call 808-883-0669, email catherinetarleton@gmail.com or visit www.peacedayparade.org

September 20, 2009
PROJECT COMPASSION FUNDRAISING EVENT - DENNY'S, KAILUA-KONA
West Hawaii residents and visitors will be able to support Full Life, a 501 (c) (3) non-profit, which provides unique, person-centered services for people with developmental disabilities, while enjoying a meal at the Kailua-Kona Denny's on Sunday, September 20th from 4 pm to 9 pm. Founded on the philosophy of self-determination, Full Life empowers people with disabilities to determine their own goals for living a meaningful life. Full Life will receive 20% of the food and beverage sales during this time and 100% of guest servers' tips. For more information, call 808-322-9333, email stone@fulllifehawaii.org or visit http://www.fulllifehawaii.org/

September 20, 2009
HULIHE'E PALACE MONTHLY SUNDAY CONCERT SERIES AND VILLAGE STROLL - KAILUA-KONA
Free Hawaiian Music Concert featuring the Merrie Monarchs men's glee club and dancing by the halau of Etua Lopez on the Palace's South Lawn at 4 p.m., presented by the Daughters of Hawaii. Bring your own beach mat or chair. Before and after the Concert, stroll thru Kailua Village (the Stroll starts at 1pm & goes till 6pm), enjoy outdoor cafe's and restaurants, local musicians & artists. Special kama'aina pricing at participating restaurants & merchants. Stroll sponsored by the Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce, Destination Kona Coast, Kailua Village Business Improvement District, and Kailua Village Merchants Association. For more info about the Palace concert, email hulihee@ilhawaii.net. For info about the Village Stroll, email info@kona-kohala.com

September 22, 2009
35th ANNUAL HAWAI'I COUNTY BUSINESS OUTLOOK FORUM - HAPUNA BEACH PRINCE RESORT
The Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce (KKCC) and First Hawaiian Bank present the 35th Annual HawaiÔi County Business Outlook Forum from 4-6 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 22 at the Hapuna Beach Prince Resort. The Forum will be followed by a cocktail reception and pupus. Admission is $40 for Chamber of Commerce and Rotary members; $50 for non-members. Dr. Leroy Laney, professor of economics and finance at Hawai'i Pacific University will speak on the "Big Island Economy in 2010". A domestic and worldwide overview will be presented by Dr. Jack Suyderhoud, professor of business economics at the University of Hawai'i-Manoa during his "U.S. & Global Economy Forecast". Register online at kona-kohala.com or phone the Chamber of Commerce office at 329-1758 before September 18.

September 24, 2009
ANNUAL CANDLELIGHT PEACE WALK - KAILUA-KONA
The World Peace Day celebration for the Big Island is annually endorsed by the Mayor of the County of Hawaii. The event starts at 6:30 pm with an informal gathering on the grassy area across from Huggo's restaurant on Alii Drive. The walk goes along Alii Drive with candles, songs and laughter to Kailua Pier, where there will be entertainment and the Proclamation by the Mayor for the United Nations International Day of Peace is reenacted. For information, call 808/938-1229 or email scarlettofgemfire@yahoo.com

September 25, 2009
"VOLCANOLOGY, GEOLOGY AND MO'OLELO" TALK - KEAUHOU BEACH RESORT
Free lecture, "Volcanology, Geology and Mo'olelo", by Dr. James P. Kauahikaua, Scientist-In-Charge, Hawaiian Volcano Observatory. Time: 5:30-7:00 p.m. at Keauhou Beach Resort Ballroom 2. Part of the Puana Ka 'Ike Lecture Series: Imparting Knowledge. Free to the public. For more information, or calendar of lectures, call 808/521-1408, email joyc@kic-hnl.com or visit www.keauhouresort.com

September 26, 2009
BiRD DOG & THE BLUEZ HOUNDZ - BIG DANCE PARTY & MORE, HOLUALOA
BIG Island, BIG Dance, BIG Dance Floor. Time: 7:00 to 10:00 PM at Holualoa Imin Ctr., Holualoa Village. During three breaks in the live blues & rock music, prizes from local craftsmen and coffee farmers will be given out. The grand prize will be a unique "Wish Keeper" ceramic by well known artist Matt Lovein of Holualoa Gallery. Cost: $12 at the door or $10 in advance from galleries and shops in Holualoa. For more information, call Holualoa Village Assn. at 808/322-8484, email mary@lovein.com or visit www.holualoahawaii.com

September 26, 2009
BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION FOR NAMASTE, THE WHITE BENGAL TIGER - HILO
Panaewa Rainforest Zoo will celebrate Namaste's 11th birthday with his traditional "ice cake", featuring 11 bone candles this year. The cake will be presented at 9:00am. At 10:30am, he will receive a birthday present of a huge pillow mouse, stuffed with "Meowie Wowie" catnip. The Hawaii County Band will then perform, followed by free cake and ice cream to be served at noon as long as supplies last. A special turkey dinner will be given to Namaste at 3:30pm, winding up the day's festivities. There will be live music all day; keiki games, crafts, a petting zoo (from 1:30-2:30pm), face painting and more will be offered during the day. Funds raised will be used by Friends of the Zoo for the acquisition and care of zoo animals and for zoo improvements. The Panaewa Zoo's hours are 9am-4pm daily. Free. For more info, call 959-9233 or visit www.hilozoo.com

September 26, 2009
CIVIL AIR PATROL OPEN HOUSE
Public invited to come learn about the all-volunteer organization that provides search and rescue, aerial tsunami warnings, community service and a cadet program for youth ages 12-18 yrs old comprised of aerospace education, leadership, physical fitness, moral & ethical values, and special activities including orientation flights in the CAP Cessna plane. Time: 10:00 AM to Noon at CAP Hangar at Hilo Airport, Hilo, Cost:Free to the public. For more information, call 896-8118 or email pbocoop@hawaii.rr.com

September 26, 2009
HAWAII VOLCANOES NAT'L PARK CELEBRATES PUBLIC LANDS DAY
Free admission and volunteer opportunities for Park visitors on Saturday, 9/26. There will six volunteer work projects in the Park during the day that visitors are invited to join, with activity levels from "Easy" (ie. sorting recycling) to "Strenuous" (ie. chopping down kahili ginger on a hike with Park Rangers). An example of "Moderate" would be planting some native plants or repairing a horse corral. To sign up for a project that fits your physical ability, time and interest, call Laura Williams at 985-6304. At 5pm, everyone is invited to a 45 minute sneak preview of Ken Burns' latest documentary, called "The National Parks: America's Best Idea", a six-part series that will debut Sunday eve on PBS.

September 26, 2009
OPENING RECEPTION FOR JACK JEFFREY NATURE PHOTOGRAPHY - VOLCANO
5-7pm, attend the opening reception for an exhibit of photos by the fascinating Jack Jeffrey, one of Hawaii's premier native bird photographers. The exhibit will be happening thru November 2, from 9am-5pm. Volcano Art Center Gallery in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Free (Park entrance fees apply). Call (808) 967-7565 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org

September 26, 2009
BOOK FAIR BENEFIT - KONA COAST SHOPPING CENTER
A book fair at Kona Coast Shopping Center (next to Jamba Juice) from 10am-2pm will benefit Friends of the Libraries, Kona. Books are priced from $0.25 to $1.00. Books are also for sale at $4.00 a bag (bag provided). Lots of hardcover and paperback fiction, non-fiction and children's books will be available. For more information, call 808-988-0224 or email mooreideas@hawaii.rr.com

September 26, 2009
HUI KAKO'O CONCERT BY PALI - KEAUHOU SHOPPING CENTER
PALI won three 2009 Na Hoku Hanohano awards - for best album, best song and best island music album. T. W. Ka'aihue and his talented band will perform live starting at 6:30 pm. The opening act at 6pm will be three more semi-finalists from the Hui Kako'o Talent Search. Vote for your favorite, and send them to the finals in December. Admission is two cans of foor per person for the Hawaii Island Food Basket; for every can over two per person, get a chance to win a gift certificate from Kenichi Pacific or dinner for two from Rocky's Pizza. Bring lawn chairs, as seating is limited. Stage in front of Longs Drug. For more information, call 808/386-4271, email ken@attitudesmarketing.com or visit www.keauhoushoppingcenter.com

September 27, 2009
QUEEN LILI'UOKALANI HULA FESTIVAL - HILO
From 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. at Queen Liliuokalani Park in Hilo, honoring the birthday of Hawaii's beloved last Monarch, the event features music food and dance. Includes a flower drop, multi-ethnic dancing and performances and dancers from dozens of Big Island halau sharing their love of hula. In the past, top name island entertainers have performed, as well. Shuttle to and from Civic Auditorium parking area. For more info, call (808) 961-8706.

October

Wednesday mornings
"HAWAI'IANA LIVE!" - PALACE THEATER, HILO
Join Leilehua Yuen in this local's-eye-view of Hawai'i Island each Wednesday in Hilo's historic Palace Theater. Through traditional chant and storytelling, music, hula, and video featurettes, Leilehua explores different facets of Hawai'i Island. Topics and films change weekly as the program revolves around the Hawaiian lunar calendar, and surprise guests and musicians often appear. A few of the past guests are Mary Ann Lim, Keoki Kahumoku, Leina'ala Lassiter, Diana Aki, and Stan Kaina. Sometimes there is hula! The show also features Bob Alder on the theater's historic pipe organ, playing some of Hawai'i's most beloved melodies. Wednesday mornings, 11:00 to 11:45am, except Christmas and New Year weeks. Admission: $5; kids free. Palace Theater, 38 Haili St. Hilo. Call 934-7010 for more information.

October 2, 2009
21st ANNUAL HAUTE TRASH FASHION SHOW AND COSTUME CONTEST, HILO
The fashion show follows the opening reception for the Trash Art Show exhibition and features over 40 designs of trash couture by local fashion designers who scavenge materials from trash and transform them into unbelievably beautiful outfits. Free to the public. 5:30-7:30pm. Call EHCC at 961-9711 or email us at arts@ehcc.org. For more info, visit www.ehcc.org and http://youtube.com/easthawaiiculture

October 2, 2009
BIG ISLAND WOODWORKERS & ARTISTS EXHIBIT - HILO
See beautiful creations made with exotic hardwoods from Big Island forests. Furniture, sculpture, and some stone sculpture and abtract paintings will be on display. At the Wailoa Center, weekdays only, 8:30am-4;30pm (Weds., noon-4:30pm). Call 933-0416 for more info.

October 3, 2009
KOHALA COUNTRY FAIR - HAWI
Food, crafts, live music, art, special keiki activities, a petting zoo, a "green zone" seed exchange, and much more. Under the Big Banyan Tree from 9 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. For more info, call 889-5324 or visit kohalacountryfair.com.

October 3, 2009
WATERCOLOR WEST HAWAII ART SHOW AND SALE
Shop for seasonal gifts of original, affordable art at the Fall art show of Watercolor West Hawaii. An exhibition of recent paintings by group members accompanies the sale. Items for sale include original watercolors, prints, and cards, as well as handmade jewelry, mosaics, carved gourds, photography and hand decorated ceramics. The show will be held at the Kona United Methodist Church, about halfway up Palani Road from downtown Kailua-Kona, from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. Watercolor West Hawaii is a group of experienced artists that paint together weekly. For more information, call Greg Schultz at 883-0709 or email gschultz@hawaii.rr.com. The event is free to the public.

October 3, 2009
CRAFT FAIR AND QUILT BOUTIQUE - KING KAMEHAMEHA MALL, KAILUA-KONA
Quilt Passions Quilt and Needlework Shop will be hosting a Craft Fair and Quilt Boutique at the King Kamehameha Mall (located at the intersection of Palani and Kuakini Hwy. in Kona, above King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel) on Saturday, October 3rd, fom 10:00 am till 3:00 pm. Locally made quilts, artwork, and handicrafts will be featured throughout the day. Call 329-7475 for more information. For more information, call 329-7475, email karen@quiltpassions.net or visit www.quiltpassions.net

October 3, 2009
THE JOURNEY OF GRIEF: LIVING WITH LOSS WORKSHOP, HILO
"The Gifts of Grief", an inspiring film that shares the experiences of seven ordinary people who have experienced remarkable losses, yet found a way to transform their grief into a greater understanding and fullfillment of life. Time: 9:00-11:00 AM at 1011 Waianuenue Ave., Hilo. Free to the public. For more information, call 969-1733, email hospice@hospiceofhilo.org or visit www.hospiceofhilo.org

October 3 and 4, 2009
HOEA (HAWAIIAN 'OHANA FOR EDUCATION IN THE ARTS) MARKET - WAIMEA
Celebrating native Hawaiian fine arts and artists, students of HOEA and other Native Hawaiian artists will exhibit and sell their artwork. There will be a fashion show featuring Hawaiian designers debuting their work on Saturday, Oct. 3rd at 1pm at a tent in 'A'ole Minuke Park behind Parker Ranch Center. Live musical entertainment and hula will include Teresa Bright, Keoki and Moses Kahumoku, Owana Salazar, the Beamer-Solomon Halau O Po'ohala, Diana Aki, and many more. Free to the public, 9-5pm. For more info, visit www.khf-hoea.org

October 4, 2009
HARVEST MOON FESTIVAL - SOUTH KONA GREEN MARKET, CAPTAIN COOK
From 9am-5pm, celebrate the abundance of the harvest of local farmers, artisans, chefs and musicians (featuring Sahra Indio and Bikini Beach) at Amy B.H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Gardens, across from the Manago Hotel in Captain Cook. There will also be keiki activities, educational speakers, a raffle & door prizes. Admission free; alcohol free; smoke-free. Call 328-8797 for more info.

October 6, 2009
BOOKS ARE BUILDING BLOCKS "READ-ALOUD", KAILUA-KONA PUBLIC LIBRARY
Presented by Friends of the Libraries, Kona (F.O.L.K.), this free monthly program is to encourage family literacy. Children ages 5-18 are invited with their parents to participate. (Parents MUST participate with their children, no exceptions.) Program is limited to the first 75 participants. Registration is from 4:30pm-5:15pm. Families will be separated in reading groups: ages 5-7, ages 8-10, ages 11-13, ages 14-18, and their parents. From 5:15pm-6:15pm, each group will have a designated person to read aloud to them followed by a short discussion. Afterward, the families will meet on the lanai for refreshments, prizes, and a book swap. To pre-register, volunteer, or for more information, please contact Lisa Thomas at 443-1093, email folkhawaii@yahoo.com or visit http://www.geocities.com/konalibraries/

October 6, 2009
COCQUI CONTROL MEETING
Help Keep Kona quiet. This meeting focuses on Coqui prevention plans, and taking action to match help requests with the renewed volunteer teams. Meet your neighbors and take an active role in Coqui control! Time: 6:pm at St. Benedict's Meeting Hall, Painted Church Road off Hwy 11. For more information, call 328-2082, email keepkonaquiet@yahoo.com or visit http://hawaiicoquifrogblog.blogspot.com/

October 6-11, 2009
NAVIGATION FESTIVAL - IMILOA ASTRONOMY CENTER, HILO
Celebrating the feats of Pacific navigators, this event also reinforces ongoing efforts to revive and expand skills and interest in long-distance canoe voyaging. Free talks, workshops, demonstrations and opportunities to learn about wayfinding and the legacy of the Hokulea voyaging canoe. For more info, call 969-9704 or visit www.imiloahawaii.org

October 7, 2009
HAWAII HOMEOWNERSHIP CENTER ORIENTATION - KAILUA-KONA
Are tough economic times causing you to put your financial plans on hold? Hawaii HomeOwnership Center is a non-profit organization whose mission is educating families in financial literacy. Home buyer education and counseling is also provided. This is a free presentation open to the public. Call to reserve a space at 930-7661. Time: 6-7 PM at Mayor's Office Conference Room, Kailua- Kona. For more information, call 930-7614, email hanah@hihomeownership.org or visit www.hihomeownership.org

October 8 and 22, 2009
EVENING GRIEF SUPPORT - HOSPICE OF HILO
Through sharing, listening, supporting, and receiving support participants are able to experience healing from their loss in their own preferred way. No charge. Group meets 6-7:30 p.m. at Hospice of Hilo, 1011 Waianuenue Ave. For more information or to register, please call 808-969-1733 or email hospice@hospiceofhilo.org or visit www.hospiceofhilo.org

October 9-24, 2009
"THE MUSIC MAN" - PALACE THEATER, HILO
One of America's most beloved musicals will be presented during the month of October in Hilo, in what looks to be a smashing production. Evening performances of "The Music Man" start at 7 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays Oct. 9 & 10, 16 & 17 and 23 & 24. Sunday matinees start at 2 p.m. on Oct. 18 and 25. Advance-sale tickets are $15; $12 for ages 12 and under or for Palace Friends. At the door, tickets are $20 and $15, respectively. The box office is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Mon.-Fri. Phone the Palace at 808-934-7010 for more information and credit card orders.

October 10, 2009
IRONMAN TRIATHLON - KAILUA-KONA
This ultimate endurance event - a 2.4 mile swim, 112-mile bike and a 26.2 mile run - attracts thousands of the world's best athletes, and thousands of volunteers from the Big Island help make it happen! Watch West Hawaii Today newspaper for updates on the event.

October 10, 2009
"BIG DAY" BIRDING IN THE PARK - HAWAII VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK
Noted birder Nick Shema coordinates a special day ofÊbirding in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Small groups of participantsÊlook and listenÊalong Park trailsÊto see, hear, and identify as many bird species as possible. At dayÕs end, groups will gather togetherÊto share observations, refreshments, and door prizes. Cost per person is $20 (a special discounted rate of $50 total is given forÊgroups ofÊ4 people that sign up together). Sponsored byÊtheÊHawai'i Volcanoes Institute, a program of Friends of Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. ToÊregister, call 985-7373, email admin@fhvnp.org, or visit www.fhvnp.org

October 11, 2009
BIENI KOHLER-JOHNSON 5K FUN RUN/WALK - HPA, WAIMEA
Meet at Hawaii Preparatory Academy to experience a challenging but fun cross country course 5K Fun Run/Walk! Visit www.bienifunrun.org to register and to learn more about how to win a fabulous two-night stay at the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel. Time: 9:00 am start time at Bieni Kohler-Johnson Memorial Scholarship. Cost: $20 adults - early registration; $10 for kids 14 and under. For more information, call (808) 989-9100, email bkj5kfunrun@gmail.com or visit www.bienifunrun.org

NEW DATE: October 14, 2009
"THE GREAT PUMPKIN" COOKING CLASS - HALE HALAWAI, KAILUA-KONA
A cooking demonstration class featuring pumpkin recipes, thru the Hawaii County Dept of Parks & Recreation, Culture and Arts Division. The menu includes Spiced Pumpkin Seeds, Pumpkin Ravioli with Sauteed Greens, and Pumpkin Streusel. All students will taste the food and go home with recipes. Time: 5:30pm to 7:00pm at Hale Halewai on Ali'i Drive, Kailua Kona, Cost:$15. For information call: 961-8706 or email greengoddessgourmethawaii@gmail.com

OCTOBER 15, 2009
KECK OBSERVATORY PUBLIC LECTURE - WAIMEA
Dr. Paul Ho, of Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory's Submillimeter Array, will present a lecture entitled, "Whispers from the Universe; Studying the Heavens with the Submillimeter Array" at 7pm at Hualalai Learning Theater, 65-1120 Mamalahoa Hwy, Waimea. Dr. Ho will explain how the array's eight radio dishes work together to examine the birth and death of stars in the cosmos. This special presentation is part of the 2009 Maunakea Directors' Lecture Series commemorating the International Year of Astronomy. For more information, call 808/881-3827 or email ayeager@keck.hawaii.edu

October 15 & 29, 2009
DAYTIME GRIEF SUPPORT - HOSPICE OF HILO
Open to adults who have experienced a loss. Promoting healing in a warm & welcoming environment, groups are open-ended and no charge. Time: 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM at 1011 Waianuenue Ave., Hilo. For more information or to register, please call 808-969-1733 or email hospice@hospiceofhilo.org or visit www.hospiceofhilo.org

October 17, 2009
KONA COMMUNITY HOSPITAL'S FOURTH ANNUAL HOPE EVENT, KEALAKEKUA
Kona Community Hospital's fourth annual Hope Event will take place on Saturday, October 17 from 1 to 5 pm 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.

October 17, 2009
"LASAGNA" GARDENING DEMONSTRATION - KAILUA-KONA PUBLIC LIBRARY
Lasagna Gardening is an organic method resulting in a rich soil garden patch. Master Gardener Daghild Rick will present a program on this new layering system for bountiful gardens with no digging, no tilling and no weeding. She will be demonstrating in a pot how to use this technique to build your garden and will give the pot away at the end of the presentation. Friends of the Libraries, Kona (FOLK) sponsors programs such as this for the benefit of the Kona community. This program is offered free to the public. Time: 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM. For more information, call 331-1781, email FOLK@folkhawaii.com or visit www.folkhawaii.com

October 17, 2009
"WAITER, THERE IS A SINGER IN MY SOUP" DINNER THEATER/CABARET - PUNA
Dinner theater music and cabaret events featuring popular Broadway hits presented by the Puna Men's Chorus. Catered by Kaleo's Restaurant. Tickets are $40 and can be purchased at Jungle Love (Pahoa) or Kaleo's Restaurant (Pahoa). Time: 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM at Akebono Theater, Pahoa. Cost: $40.00. For more information, call (808) 965-0572 or email kailimoku@earthlink.net

October 18, 2009
PROJECT COMPASSION - NEIGHBORHOOD PLACE OF KONA FUNDRAISER AT KONA DENNY'S, CROSSROADS
The Neighborhood Place of Kona will receive 20% of all the food and beverage sales and 100% of the guest servers' tips on October 18th from 4 pm to 9 pm. Come on out for a dinner and help support this worthy non-profit. Guided by values rooted in Hawaiian culture, NPK believes in the importance of strong families, and through strong families, creating caring communities. NPK provides free, voluntary and confidential services to all families in West Hawaii. The programs embrace families at risk of child abuse or neglect by providing them compassionate, non-judgmental services. The Neighborhood Place of Kona can assist with basic needs, including applying for housing, childcare, or financial assistance, and help to connect families to resources for substance abuse, anger management, domestic violence and more, with the goal of strengthening families by giving them the tools to learn to heal themselves. For more information, call 345-7357, email cfeke@hawaii.rr.com or visit http://www.neighborhoodplaceofkona.org/

October 18, 2009
"KOKUA KAILUA" HULIHE'E PALACE MONTHLY SUNDAY CONCERT SERIES AND VILLAGE STROLL - KAILUA-KONA
Free Hawaiian Music Concert featuring the Merrie Monarchs men's glee club and dancing by the halau of Etua Lopez on the Palace's South Lawn at 4 p.m., presented by the Daughters of Hawaii. Bring your own beach mat or chair. Before and after the Concert, stroll thru Kailua Village (the Stroll starts at 1pm & goes till 6pm), enjoy outdoor cafe's and restaurants, local musicians & artists. Special kama'aina pricing at participating restaurants & merchants. Stroll sponsored by the Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce, Destination Kona Coast, Kailua Village Business Improvement District, and Kailua Village Merchants Association. For more info about the Palace concert, email hulihee@ilhawaii.net. For info about the Village Stroll, email info@kona-kohala.com

October 18, 2009
OLGA SALVATORE JAZZ TRIO AT BB'S TOPSIDE, KAILUA-KONA
Olga Salvatore Jazz Trio, with Greg Shirley on guitar and Brian McCree on bass, will inaugurate the new music venue from 5-8pm at Boston Basil's in downtown Kailua-Kona, opposite the seawall. BB's Topside is located on the upper floor, above the restaurant, and has full bar service and a list of pupus. (There is a full menu with full bar service available downstairs at Boston Basil's restaurant.) For more info, call 326-7836.

October 21, 2009
DISABILITY MENTORING DAY
Inviting All Big Island individuals with disabilities, and businesses! October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month, and the University of Hawai'i Center for Disabilities is celebrating with it's 2nd Annual Disability Mentoring Day. Disability Mentoring Day (DMD) is a large-scale national effort to promote career development for students and job seekers with disabilities through hands-on career exploration, on-site job shadowing, and ongoing mentoring leading to internship and employment opportunities. We are seeking mentees, mentors and local business to participate. For more information, contact Mar Ortaleza with Abled Hawai'i Artists at 895-5353, or email marortaleza@earthlink.net

October 22, 2009
EMPLOYERS FORUM LUNCHEON - NATIONAL EMPLOYMENT AWARENESS MONTH, HILO
Inviting All Big Island Employers! Celebrating October as National Disability Employment Awareness Month, Workforce Solutions will host it's 3rd Annual, Disability Awareness Forum on Thursday, October 22, 2009 from 11:00am -1:30pm at the Hawaii County Conference Room at Aupuni Center. Panelists will represent both the employers' and employees' perspective. A complimentary free lunch will be served and door prizes will be given away. To register or for more information, contact Charlie Kunz at 981-2871 or email marortaleza@earthlink.net

October 23, 2009
CONCERT WITH DEVA PREMAL & MITEN, WITH SPECIAL GUEST MANOSE
Deva and Miten's music is an expression of spiritual devotion, through song and chant. The couple have been living and playing together since 1991, releasing a string of acclaimed CDs along the way. The openness and honesty in which they share their lives and their music has touched the hearts of thousands of seekers throughout the world. Call 328-2082 for discounted tickets. Time: 7:30 PM at Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort, Kona. General Admission: $40 advance/$50 at the door/$30 group. For more information, call 328-2082 or email Sheoli.Makara@yahoo.com

October 23, 2009
"SPIRIT GUIDES" ART EXHIBIT AT PAHOA MUSEUM, PUNA
Rose Barber, Jim Nolan and Louie Perry will have an art opening entitled "Spirit Guides" at Pahoa Museum on Friday October 23rd, from 6pm-10pm. See spirit manifested in nature in photographs by Jim and Louie. Rose will unveil three 2x4 ft paintings; two of kahunas and one of a spiritual practitioner, representing the elements fire, air and water, all embodying the element of earth and spirit. There will be pupus, live music, hula, DJ Zko and fire dancing. Free to the public. The Pahoa Museum is located at 15-2931 Pahoa Village Road. For more information, call 895-5353, email marortaleza@earthlink.net or visit http://www.cds.hawaii.edu/aha/

October 23, 2010
FREE PUANA KA IKE LECTURE - KEAUHOU BEACH RESORT
Dr. Manulani Meyer will present the lecture: " 'Ike 'ina: Sustainability in the Context of Hawaiian Epistemology in the Practice of Coherence" from 5:30-7:00 p.m. at the Keauhou Beach Resort ballroom. The lecture is part of the Puana Ka Ike (Imparting Knowledge) series, an educational forum that offers a deeper understanding of Hawaiian culture, history, tradition and perspective of the environment. The series is sponsored by Kamehameha Investment Corporation/Kamehameha Schools, The Kohala Center, University of Hawaii at Hilo Kipuka Native Hawaiian Student Center and their Eia Hawai'i Lecture Series, and Keauhou Beach Resort. For more information, call 534-8528, email joyc@kic-hnl.com or visit http://kohalacenter.org/puanakaike/about.html

October 23, 2009
"WAITER, THERE IS A SINGER IN MY SOUP" DINNER THEATER/CABARET - KEA'AU
Dinner theater music and cabaret events featuring popular Broadway hits presented by the Puna Men's Chorus. Catered by Botticelli's Ono Loa Foods. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at Jungle Love (Pahoa). Time: 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM at Hawaii Paradise Park Owners Association Activity Center (at Maku'u St., beween 16th & 17th St.), Kea'au. Cost: $25.00. For more information, call (808) 965-0572 or email kailimoku@earthlink.net

October 23, 2009
YOUTH GATHERING CONCERT - MOKUAIKAUA CHURCH, ALII DRIVE
Kalapana Mauna Kea, Makua Lani High School, and the Mokuaikaua Praise Team present a free youth gathering concert, from 7-9:30 p.m. on Friday, October 23 at historic Mokuaikaua Church on Alii Drive. For more info, call 937-3208 or 329-0655. For more information, call 329-0655, email tanya@dien.com or visit http://www.mokuaikaua.org/

October 23 and 24, 2009
PUMPKINS FOR SALE - WAIMEA COUNTRY SCHOOL
Waimea Country School will be selling pumpkins to raise funds for the continuation of the school garden project on Friday October 23rd and Saturday October 24th from 9:00am-5:00pm. The school is located in St. James' Circle near the St. James' thrift shop in Waimea. For more, information call 885-0067 or email kellyatr@yahoo.com

October 23-31, 2009
FRANKENSTEIN FOLLIES MUSICAL/COMEDY - LUTHERAN CHURCH FOR THE HOLY TRINITY
Musical/Comedy about Frankenstein and his friends: dracula, wolfman, witches and more. Robb Dahlke is director and Francine Alexander is musical director. A fun show for all ages. Time: 2:00 PM and 7:30 PM at 77-165 Lako Street (Bottom of Lako St. Cost: $8 children; $10 adults. For more information, call 322-2394 or email cheryl247mom@yahoo.com

October 24, 2009
"HAMAKUA ALIVE" FOOD EVENT - PAU'UILO
This popular food event sponsored by The Hawaiian Vanilla Company of Pa'auilo showcases the agricultural bounty of the verdant Hamakua Coast. There will be a Hamakua Cook-Off, featuring Hamakua purveyors and Big Island chefs; a Farmers Market with produce and products from local farms, home gardeners & ranchers, and Cooking Contests with recipes for Pies and Cakes, Jelly and Jams and Soups and Breads. There will be agricultural demonstrations and info, education offered about alternative energy, composting, conservation, aquaculture and more, local Hawaiian music entertainment, and a Silent Auction, baked goods for sale and soccer games! 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at the ballfield at Pa'auilo School. Free. Contact Wally Andrade at 937-8599, email walman1@hawaii.rr.com, or Jim Reddekopp at 776-1771, e-mail vanillakitchen@aol.com

October 24, 2009
FALL ART FESTIVAL - DONKEY MILL ART CENTER
This all-day festival is your chance to get creative in a variety of arts media to create your own gifts and gift wrapping for the holidays. Also featuring door prizes, raffles for gifts, 'ukulele entertainment, food, and more. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at the historic Donkey Mill Art Center in Holualoa. Cost: $5 per member; $6 non-member; children under 12 free. For information, call 430-1556, email shanmigliori@gmail.com or visit www.donkeymillartcenter.org

October 24, 2009
CHRIS YEATON, ANDY RISING AND STEVE KLINE IN CONCERT - WAIKOLOA VILLAGE
Doors open at 6:30pm; Show at 7:00pm at Waikoloa Community Church. Tickets $15.

October 24, 2009
HAWAII PARROT HEAD CLUB - KAILUA-KONA
The Hawaii Parrot Head Club is a Jimmy Buffett fan club that meets every other month at Lulu's on Ali'i Drive from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. There will be live entertainment. Please bring a non-perishable food item for the Hawaii Food Basket. For more information, call 960-0838, email hawaiiparrotheadclub@gmail.com or visit www.hawaiiparrotheads.com

October 24, 2009
BOOK SIGNING AT QUILT PASSIONS - KING KAMEHAMEHA MALL, KAILUA-KONA
Quilt Passions Quilt and Needlework Shop in the King Kamehameha Mall (on Kuakini Hwy. At Palani Rd.) will be hosting a book signing and trunk show with local designer and author Sylvia Pippen on Saturday, Oct. 24 from 10:00 am till 12:00 noon. Sylvia will be displaying quilts featured in her new book "Paradise Stitched." Please call 329-7475 for more information, email karen@quiltpassions.net or visit www.quiltpassions.net

October 26, 2009
INDIAN CLASSICAL MUSIC CONCERT - PARKER SCHOOL, WAIMEA
The group Shringara Nepal & Manose ( http://www.manosemusic.com/ ) will play at 7pm at the Parker School Theatre. Shringara Nepal brings together two of Indian classical music's finest performers: Parashuram Bhandari on sarangi and Achyut Ram Bhandari on tabla (accompaniment by Babette Ackin on tamboura). For the first time in ten years the Bhandari cousins are together for a brief tour in the United States. Cost: $20. For more info, call 965-1053 or visit www.indianclassicalmusichawaii.com

October 28, 2009
KAHALU'U SURF DAY '09
Surfs Up! Hawaii lifeguards and surf instructors, Halona's Ocean Tours, and Full Life invite you to a day of surfing. This is the third year of Surf Day events in which people with disabilities are invited and supported to enjoy surfing and paddling & activities that many people with disabilities do not easily get to experience. Founded on the philosophy of self-determination, Full Life empowers people with disabilities to determine their own goals for living a meaningful life. This year, the event also includes a kanikapila starting at 10:00 AM. Bring your 'ukulele or simply join in with the singing, dancing and listening to our local talent. Time: 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Kahalu'u Beach. Cost: One can of food for the HI Island Food Basket. For more information, call 322-9333, email stone@fulllifehawaii.org or visit www.fulllifehawaii.org

October 30, 2009
"WAITER, THERE IS A SINGER IN MY SOUP" DINNER THEATER/CABARET - PUNA
Dinner theater music and cabaret events featuring popular Broadway hits presented by the Puna Men's Chorus, with guest appearance by Harmony on Tap (HOT). Catered by Kaleo's Restaurant. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at CD Wizard. Time: 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM at Wailoa Pavilion, Hilo. Cost: $25.00. For more information, call (808) 965-0572 or email kailimoku@earthlink.net

October 31, 2009
HAWAII ISLAND HUMANE SOCIETY'S ANNUAL HALLOWEEN PET WALK - KAILUA-KONA
Registration begins 8:00 a.m., walk begins at 9:00 a.m. Meet at Hale Halawai on Alii Dr., and walk to Kailua Pier and back. Download pledge forms at www.HIHS.org or call the Kona Shelter at 329-1175 for information. Contests & prizes for the 3 walkers with the most pledges! Cost: $30 in advance/ $35 day.

October 31, 2009
KONA OUTDOOR CIRCLE'S 32nd ANNUAL PUA PLANTASIA EVENT - MAKA'EO EVENTS PAVILION, OLD AIRPORT STATE PARK
Plants from 25 growers - bamboo, orchids, day lilies, bedding plants, herbs, fruit trees, and more; a collectibles treasures booth with spectacular and fun finds; jams and jellies and chutneys. Plant advice, a coqui eradicator, and a Recycle Hawaii booth. Food for sale: a benefit for Rotary of Kona Sunrise, food by Tante's Restaurant for breakfast thru lunch at great prices (breakfast croissants, yogurt and granola, chili and rice, vegetarian chili and rice, chicken salad in papaya, smoothies, desserts, Kona coffee).
There will be free classes:
9 am - Sustainable Gardening (with Diana Duff, KOC Education Advisor)
10 am - Composting with Worms (with Joan Lamont and Jeri Baumgardner)
11 am - Food Plants of Old Hawaii (with Peter Van Dyke, Amy Greenwell Garden)
Noon - Planting to Sustain the Gardener with Fragrance and Beauty (with Brian Lievens)
On Stage:
10 am - John Keawe
11 am - Aloha in Motion (Bobby Koanui, Sean Hudman & Konabob Stoffer)
12:30 - Beautification Awards
1 pm - Aloha Performing Arts Center Performance Highlights
Proceeds will benefit beautification work by Kona Outdoor Circle. For more info, contact Kona Outdoor Circle at 329-7286, email koc@konaoutdoorcircle.org

October 31, 2009
BOOK SALE BENEFIT AT KONA COAST SHOPPING CENTER
The Friends of the Libraries, Kona (FOLK), will hold a Book Sale on Saturday, October 31st from 9 AM to 1 PM at the Food Court of the Kona Coast Shopping Center. Funds from sales help support the needs of the Kona libraries, with funding that includes educational and entertainment programs, community summer reading programs, visiting authors, magazine subscriptions, CDs, DVDs and new book purchases. Books will be offered for $5 per supplied bag. There will also be free Halloween gifts for children along with a purchase. Volunteers are welcome, so if you find yourself willing and able, please contact us at FOLK@folkhawaii.com. For more information email FOLK@folkhawaii.com or visit www.folkhawaii.com

October 31, 2009
HOLUAKOA HALLOWEEN COSTUME PARTY - HOLUALOA
From 6-10pm, eat, drink and be scary at Holuakoa Gardens in Holualoa. The party theme is "Alice in Wonderland"; no cover if in costume. Cash bar. Wilson's great pizza for sale. For more info, call 322-2233.