MidWeek » Windward Oahu Waha Nui

He’ll finally have time to read. Kailua’s Richard Burns, state librarian with three decades in the system, retires at the end of this month. And he just earned his latest “exceptional” rating from the Board of Education. As head of Hawaii’s 50 libraries since 2008, Richard has overseen a giant leap in online access and technology that has, not surprisingly, increased value and usage at the neighborhood level. Local patrons may remember him from earlier stints at the Waimanalo, Kailua, Kahuku and Kaneohe branches …

Moving on to a different kind of branch, First Hawaiian Bank has promoted Kaneohe’s Paula Ogimi to manager of its Kahuku bank branch, where she’ll be responsible for business development and budget …

Miss Kaneohe Maia Miller tied for Miss Congeniality in the Miss Hawaii USA 2015 pageant, where she says she made many lasting friendships. It must have been a very friendly event as there was a three-way tie. Maia also won a $3,000 scholarship to Argosy University … The Kukahiko ohana is covering all bases this month. Pastor Eldean Kukahiko led his Kahaluu Ukulele Band in a performance at Gov. David Ige‘s inauguration, and son Kaipo (social worker, musician and Castle grad) accepted the call to lead Kualoa-He‘eia Ecumenical Youth (KEY) Project in 2015 …

As you watch your favorite cable TV shows, keep in mind that Angela Angel, an award-winning Kailua videographer, is now Oceanic Community Media’s interim CEO and president. During this transition, board president Nelson Lau says “there’s no better person to lead ‘Olelo than Angela.” She moves up from chief production officer … Thumbs up to Kaneohe’s Tisha Falcon, who brought Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes to keiki in Quito, Ecuador, on behalf of 95.5 The Fish, despite a harrowing adventure with fog in Dallas, missed connections and overnight airport vacations along the way. “This amazing ‘God trek’ has been beautiful so far!,” she writes

cchang@midweek.com

The ever-growing Ward Village complex has hired Kaneohe’s Larry Schenk as senior director of construction (he’s a 40-year veteran of the industry who will oversee all Hawaii projects) and Jon Moore, who will be director of construction (specifically the Waiea condo project). Jon helped develop Aulani Resort and has consulted with several other Hawaii resorts … Kimee Balmilero (Castle 1997), who has honed her drama skills on Broadway, in Hollywood and Australia, is currently teaching improv techniques at ProtoHUB in

Kaka‘ako, calling it “Twerk Your Brain: Thinking on your Feet and Outside the Box”

(info@protohub-honolulu.net) … Congratulations to Ka‘elepulu Elementary teacher Sara Kinyon, who has earned certification from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards, joining 45 other Hawaii public school teachers and 13 private school teachers in the achievement this year. It’s a rigorous, yearlong process designed to improve her students’ learning … Mitch D’Olier accepted an honorary degree Dec.

15 from Chaminade University, rec-ognizing his “remarkable professional career” with Victoria Ward, Kaneohe

Ranch and Harold K.L. Castle Foundation, which he still chairs, and numerous other nonprofits and community-serving organizations …

The Kahaluu-based band Kupa‘aina serenaded the judges and staff at First Circuit Court last week, with the voices of Stan Tibayan and Kevin Chang “echoing through the halls of justice.” Their gig sparked a few smiles, reports Kevin (Castle 1990), because “the off-key metal detector rang in the holiday season and threw us off, over and over again” … Lanikai artist Petra Evers debuted her Little Greenies last week at Muumuu Heaven (263-3366), where the hand-crafted, elf-like dolls await your adoption. They also have their own book detailing their “wild and fun life” in island forests … Marcella Malufau (Castle 2009, El Camino College 2013) has graduated from Army basic training at Fort Jackson, S.C. ❑ ❑ ❑ cchang@midweek.com

Waiahole taro farmer Hanale Bishop of Home stead Poi has added a new crop to his produce booth at the Saturday market at Ben Parker Elementary. It’s his just-released Rainwork, a CD of 10 solo acoustic original songs from ‘Aumakua Records. As you munch on your fish and poi, listen to him online at itunes.apple.com/us/album/rainwork/id946994265 …

Kailua Sailboards and Kayaks did well at the recent Hawaii Ecotourism Association awards ceremony by winning Ecotour Guide of the Year for Oahu (Kai‘ulani Manuwai-Oiph) and earning HEA’s sustainable tourism certification. Kualoa Ranch also earned the certification, which recognizes responsible environmental operations … Former DOE administrator Ray “Frenchy” L‘Heureux of Kailua recently talked to kids at Hale Kula Elementary on Schofield Barracks about his time as pilot of Marine One, the presidential helicopter. In fact, he’s written a book about flying for George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton, George W. Bush and Barack Obama.

His message to the keiki? “Study hard” … Hawaiian Airlines has appointed Kaneohe’s Beau Tatsumura director of line maintenance to keep the airline’s entire fleet of 47 aircraft in top shape. Beau’s got the experience for it after two decades with Aloha Air Cargo and Aloha Airlines, plus an aeronautics degree …

You can find this good read, Mokapu: A Paradise on the Peninsula, at the Marine base website, covering this first half of the 20th century at Mokapu. Prepared by M.J. Tomonari-Tuggle and Tom Arakaki, it draws on many sources, including Windward historians Paul Brennan and Mahealani Cypher. Log onto mcbhawaii.marines.mil. Then click on departments, installations, environmental, and (finally!) cultural resources & & & cchang@midweek.com

Paliku Academy of Performing Arts students have been up to their eyeballs in aloha and omiyage with trips to Disneyland (Nov. 4-11) and Disney World (Dec. 2-7), reports director John-Paul Tai. They were on stage and in the Disney Parks Christmas Day Parade in Anaheim, and some of the troupe made it to Orlando for the Frozen Christmas Celebration Parade; both marches aired on ABC TV. They send many mahalos to all the local folks who donated to the gift-giving and the trip costs …

As president of Pasadena’s Tournament of Roses, Kaneohe native Richard L. Chinen announced the winning floats in the Jan. 1 parade. The California attorney’s duty is to immerse himself in all the city’s “rosy” events for one year as its lead ambassador …

If you spy anyone with an unusual collection of expensive nursery tools, call the police. Hui Ku Maoli Ola, a native plant nursery in Haiku Valley, was the latest Kaneohe program hit by burglars. Video cameras show two men helping themselves Dec. 25, loading up and taking off. “They should have been with their family instead of robbing cool people,” owner Rick Barboza told Hawaii News Now …

Kailua’s Mari Aipa has launched a new package subscription business, My Aloha Post, with college friend Anuhea Nakahara, offering locally made items inspired by a Hawaii experience. Valued at $50 and up, the orders change monthly and items range from accessories and artwork to candies and clutches. Find out more at myalohapost.com …

Dallas Cowboy cheerleaders spread their cheer well across the state and at Kaneohe Marine base Dec. 13, where they had breakfast with the troops, led a clinic at Semper Fit Center, toured the base and brought smiles to everyone. President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle followed up with their own visits to the base — full of cheer, but no leaps or dances & & & cchang@midweek.com

Longtime Kaneohe activist Bettye Jo Harris will receive the NAACP Distinguished Service Award for Lifetime Achievement Saturday during the annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Awards Gala at Dole Cannery. Besides her many contributions to social justice, the former Kaneohe Neighborhood Board member, now 81, also had a hand in convincing government to build the pedestrian bridge over Likelike Highway at Anoi Road … Finish Carpenter has hired Waimanalo’s Gary Teixeira to work on completing its new projects, renovations and warranty work. For fun, he coaches youth baseball …

More fun: Nick Logue will direct the Cutty Sark Players in the “rousing misadventures” of Robert Burns‘ epic poem Tam o Shanter Jan. 24 during the Caledonian Society’s annual Burns Night at Oahu Country Club. Nick also directs theater classes at Windward Community College. To attend Burns Night, visit scotsinhawaii.org … The documentary Haiyan After the Storm by Kailua’s Emme Tomimbang has become a resource for many involved in helping the Philippines rebuild after the monster storm that struck in November 2013. Pope Francis plans a trip there, but only after he’s viewed a DVD of Emme’s film, now on its way to the Vatican …

Two Kaneohe women won titles in a unique inaugural pageant Dec. 20 at Pacific Beach Hotel that tested their knowledge of health care, as well as talent and modeling skills. Organizers hope to send all four winners out to promote Medicare programs and serve as examples of vitality and relevance over age and disability. Laurie Bachran (85) is Ms. Original Medicare and Fay Rawles-Schoch (70) wears the Ms. Medicare Advantage crown. Laurie also was Mrs. Hawaii 1963 and authored the Mrs. Hawaii Cookbook …

Making the fall dean’s list at Arizona State University in Tempe were Kailua’s Madalyn Burr, Shannan McCready and Zachary Puetz; and Kaneohe’s Aidan Morita. On last spring’s dean’s list were Kailua’s Brandie Ballard, Shayann Orta, Monique Visocky and smart ones Shannan and Zachary. Monique also graduated last May, along with Kailua’s Natalie Tumlinson & & & cchang@midweek.com

Kristen Kauhane

Plays from Robert St. John‘s playwriting program at Le Jardin Academy get the readers-theater treatment at 8 p.m. Friday at Leeward CC theater, featuring works by Clay McDermott, Jennifer Fachan, Daisy Sprenger, James Christensen, Maddison Mathews and Kivalu Ramanlal (455-0380) … This month Christ Church United welcomes its new pastor Liz Leavitt, who was educated at University of Oregon and Harvard Divinity School …

Want to be a foster parent? Hui o Ko‘olaupoko has just the plant for you in its plant care program — “green thumb or not.” Call Kristen Nalani Mailheau at 381 7202 … Kaneohe’s Loxley Keala has transferred from Missouri to University of Iowa, where she’ll play for the Hawkeye women’s volleyball team next season. “Loxley is smooth as silk, has great touch in her hands and is really athletic in her movement,” says coach Bond Shymansky. “This really jump-starts our program.” Go, Cuz! … Hawaii Reporter co-founder and editor Malia Zimmerman of Kailua begins work this week as an investigative reporter for FOX News Channel out of its Los Angeles bureau …

Anthology Marketing has hired Kailua’s Kristen Kauhane as account coordinator, which includes itineraries for visiting travel writers. Kristen was a UH Manoa honors student while earning degrees in marketing and business administration … Erin Chang Wells (Castle 1996) reports that the Unpampered on Purpose group she volunteers with in California achieved its first goal of funding a water well in Guatemala. “To everyone who donated, hosted parties, attended parties and sacrificed those extra pamperings, thank you so much!” …

Kaneohe’s Jenni Sakamoto and Hau‘ula’s Tiaura Samyiou, both nursing majors, made the fall dean’s list at George Fox University in Newberg, Ore. … HHF Planners has promoted Kailua’s Rob James and Kaneohe’s Ronald Sato to senior associates. Rob’s geography experience and Ron’s work in urban planning should support the firm’s major projects …

Castle High art teacher Casilda Rippard says she was so inspired by the Hawaii arts program at WCC that she’s added a new course at the high school: Arts & Crafts of Hawaii … Breaking news from the Board of Water Supply: To get rid of slugs, put an open beer can in the ground. “Slugs can crawl in, but they can’t crawl out,” it declares to customers & & & cchang@midweek.com

Kahaluu’s Ellen Godbey Carson received the 2015 Martin Luther King Jr. Peacemaker Award Jan. 19, sponsored by Church of the Crossroads and St. Andrew’s Cathedral — just the latest of many honors for the attorney for her advocacy of civil rights, health care, women’s rights and much more …

Artist and Zen Buddhist monk Jonathan Ming Ji was honored at Stanford University as a 2010 National Treasure, and you can see his paintings there. He also presented a painting to President George W. Bush at the White House. It was a horse, of course. Jonathan will be at the grand opening Sunday of Buddhist Art and Mind Center Galleria in Kailua (see calendar) …

Le Jardin Academy news: Junior Samuel St. John is in the running (as a semifinalist) for a National Merit Scholarship, to be offered next spring to the top 7,600 high school students nationwide. He’s already considered in the top 1 percent of the highest-scoring test takers. And LJA music teacher and former TED speaker Micah Hirokawa presented his groundbreaking research on innovative educational strategies in a keynote address to the recent Summit Fest at Ward Center …

Here’s what King Intermediate students are aiming for in the future. At their Dec. 19 career day, they requested and got speakers from the following professions: doctors, archaeologists, performers, Peace Corps volunteers, semi-pro soccer players and business owners … First Insurance Co. of Hawaii has promoted Kailua’s Jeff Grimmer to vice president, finance operations and administration. Jeff has been with the company since 2006, serving as actuary, treasurer and more …

Veteran Kailua guitarist Shoji Ledward, Na Hoku nominee for his 2008 solo jazz album Live at the Contemporary Cafe, led an evening of “JazzSpeak” with bassist Alika Lyman and violinist Duane Padilla last Saturday at HPU’s Atherton Studio &&& cchang@midweek.com

San Diego Chargers linebacker Manti Te’o stepped into the new role of donor last week at his alma mater, Kahuku High & Intermediate School (before transferring to Punahou). Manti presented a $10,000 check — half of it his own money and half from the NFL Matching Funds Grant — to support the Red Raiders’ football program, including equipment and supplies. Principal Pauline Masaniai was grateful for the gift: “We appreciate that Manti is giving back to his community, and as a school and extended ohana, we’re proud of his many accomplishments and giving spirit.” Manti’s mom also works as a counselor at the school, and both parents are proud Red Raider alumni …

Legendary Kailua musician/composer Kenneth Makuakane will perform at 7:30 p.m. Saturday at HPR’s Atherton Studio on Kaheka Street (955-8821). He also will receive the Hawaii Academy of Recording Arts 2015 Lifetime Achievement Award in May … Kailua Sailboards & Kayaks took the $2,500 first prize (from Revolusun) in Sustainable Coastlines and Kupu Hawaii’s first Ultimate Sand Sifter Challenge Nov. 15. The prize came with an additional $2,500 from Jack Johnson Ohana Charitable Foundation to replicate five of its winning designs to help clean up island shorelines …

STOKE Certified which (not surprisingly) promotes the best in surf and snow resorts, has bestowed its “Sustainability” leadership label on Turtle Bay Resort, following an intensive onsite evaluation. The group noted the resort’s work with local schools, cultural festivals, local farming, conservation easements, green roofing, solar panels and more … Kaneohe’s Carol Momi Abella has joined Coldwell Banker Pacific Properties in its new agent training office …

Kapunahala Elementary principal Deborah Nekomoto is in the running for two national awards, nominated by Castle-Kahuku Complex area superintendent Lea Albert: National Distinguished Principal and the Masayuki Tokioka Excellence in School Leadership award. It would be an honor to be “sent to the principal’s office” at her school. Stay tuned & & & cchang@midweek.com

Alaska’s new first lady Donna Pyle Walker initially stepped into the spotlight as Surfrider head cheerleader and a National Merit Scholar. Donna (Kailua 1972) assumed her new role following her husband Bill‘s successful campaign as an independent candidate. She wears many hats as an attorney with the Gov, mother of four, and tutu to more. Plus, her favorite charity (a domestic violence shelter) got a $5,000 gift from the inaugural ball proceeds in Kenai …

Aaron Sala is the new director of cultural affairs for Royal Hawaiian Center, which is serious about bringing the Hawaiian experience and hospitality to Waikiki visitors. An award-winning producer and musician, the Kailua native has been UH assistant professor of Hawaiian music and ethnomusicology and has advised venues like Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage … Talk story with Kaneohe law-makers at 7 p.m. Feb. 10 in WCC’s Hale Akoakoa 105 (587-7215). Sen. Jill Tokuda and Reps. Ken Ito and Jarrett Keohokalole are “looking forward to good questions and creative suggestions to address the challenges we face,” Jill says …

Kailua native Patrick Klein is the new president of the HUGS board of directors (Help, Understanding and Group Support), which serves seriously ill children and their families. Patrick directs advertising for Oahu Publications Inc., is active on several boards and was a 2012 Pacific Century Fellow … Ten years after his death, Kailua 1st Lt. Nainoa Hoe was honored at a wreath-laying ceremony Jan. 22 at the Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington National Cemetery. Nainoa was killed by a sniper in Mosul, Iraq, in 2005. His dad, Allen (now the local civilian aide to Secretary of the Army), honors his memory yearly and awards scholarships in his name. U.S. Reps. Mark Takai and Tulsi Gabbard attended, along with Ashley Arethel (for U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz) …

The word was “philately” and it took 19 rounds for Windward District Spelling Bee winners to emerge Jan. 29. Aikahi Elementary’s Nick Sarji placed first, and Le Jardin’s Abigail Dietrich was runner-up. They’ll represent Windward March 21 at the state bee & & & cchang@midweek.com

A Kaneohe couple is behind UH Department of Theatre and Dance’s Kennedy main-stage production, La‘ieikawai, a new play in Hawaiian about a princess of that name. Assistant professor Tammy Haili‘opua Baker adapted the mo‘olelo for the stage and directs it, while kumu Chris Kaliko Baker, a Castle alum, is dramaturge and language coach. The play runs Feb. 20-March 1 (944-2697) …

Though she’s officially closing Muumuu Heaven Feb. 26 after eight years because of failed lease negotiations, owner Deb Mascia says she’ll focus on her other shop, Hana Hou Vintage on Kainehe Street, and keep Muumuu Heaven in a “web-only” pattern for now … Organizers of last week’s Windward district science fair at WCC like what Albert Einstein once said: “If we knew what it was we were doing, it would not be called research, would it?” …

Four local teens will have their works on view Feb. 20-April 10 at Hawaii State Art Museum, as 2015 winners of Hawaii Regional Scholastic Art Awards. Kahuku High’s Sadie Morelock earned a Gold Key for her painting “Bargaining.” Silver Keys went to Kahuku’s Benjamin Earl (design, “Red Raider Nation”) and India Pyzel (design, “Benoa ‘bout It”), and Castle’s Nadine Yokotake (drawing, “Collage”) …

Kailua’s Joshua Ross is a now a senior investment associate with Ulupono, which supports Hawaii projects that impact food, clean energy and waste reduction. Josh did similar work in Boston and has 12 years’ experience in the industry … Kaneohe’s Karen Wataru-Nakaoka has moved up from member relations director to executive director of Hawaii Lodging and Tourism Association. She’s already known by CEO George Szigeti as a “sharp thinker” with a passion for the hospitality industry. Karen also has been an Aloha Airlines flight attendant and a Hina Mauka substance abuse counselor …If it’s not too late, you can enjoy director Susan McCreary Duprey and her Windward Choral Society singing African-American gospel and spirituals in a free concert at 7 p.m. Feb. 17 at Pohai Nani (234-6639) & & & cchang@midweek.com

When Al Lewis, 70, died Jan. 19, it was a loss to his Waimanalo ohana, and was stated well by many friends and lawmakers. U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, for example, entered it into the Congressional Record Feb. 12, noting Uncle Al’s volunteer work with yearly carnivals, the teen project, Kailua High School and Friends of Waimanalo. She called him “a selfless and larger-than-life community leader who found his passion helping those in need.” Amen. Services were Feb. 19 at St. George’s …

Kailua’s Doug Fitch will sing Aloha Kaneohe and many more original ballads from four albums in a 7:30 p.m. concert Saturday at HPR’s Atherton Studio. Tickets cost $30-$25 (955-8821) … Kaneohe’s Kamakana Kaimuloa has joined Hawaii Chamber of Commerce as vice president of military affairs. He previously was senior legislative assistant to U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa … City Council Chairman Ernie Martin recognized Ma’ake and Chris Kemoeatu recently, honoring the Kahuku brothers and NFL players who made national news when older brother Ma’ake donated his kidney to ailing Chris. Both men are now recovered and back home for family time off the field and away from the limelight …

Castle and Kapunahala alumna Elsie Higa Yoshimura has announced the release of her latest self-published book, Memoirs of a Certain Sansei, A Japanese American Mother and Teacher. And it’s your lucky day: Free downloads are offered Feb. 27-March 1 at lulu.com. Elsie has been a respected Japanese language teacher at Iolani for 40 years …

Kailua’s Giorgio Caldarone has a new role in his Kamehameha Schools career: director of real estate planning, commercial division. He’s worked for 10 years in the land assets division (residential, agriculture energy projects) … Health consultant to presidents, British royals and Olympians, Patricia Bragg visited Kailua farmers market Feb. 22 to share facts about liquid aminos …

Lanikai’s Woes Day fun run winners: race veterans Chris Bachl (men) and Lily Bachl (women). And yes, Virginia, there is plenty of traffic in Lanikai. Volunteers counted 1,050 hikers Jan. 19 on the pillbox trail & & & cchang@midweek.com

Kailua’s Don Weir has won the 2014 Kane Fernandez Service Award for giving his support unselfishly to the betterment of the community. UH Manoa Letter-winners Club presented a plaque to him during halftime at the Feb. 26 Rainbow Warrior basketball game. A UH football player in 1972-73, Don later led both that club and Na Koa. He’s helped raise $37,000 for UH sports and established a $35,000 endowment through the club with wife Colleen. Add to that the Kailua Canoe Club fish fry …

Got milken? Kailua native Jana Fukada does. The Mililani Uka Elementary teacher was surprised with the $25,000 unrestricted Milken Educator award, a prestigious professional honor, last week at an “impromptu” assembly at her school. The cash may go to pay down the loan for her USC doctorate — in education, of course … Kailua’s Casey Doyle (Le Jardin 2014) made the dean’s list in her first semester of classes at Georgetown University in D.C. …

Congratulations to Diana Holland on the 20th anniversary of her Kailua hair salon, The Cutting Edge. She threw a big open house party Feb. 28 at the Uluniu Street shop, which draws rave reviews from her large, loyal following … Look for a piece on Kalaheo’s new tennis court to repeat on PBS-Hawaii’s HIKI NO. It debuted Feb. 19 with other teen stories …

Harold K.L. Castle Foundation does more than award grants to Windward schools and marine conservation. This week, foundation staff also shared tips in person with more than 700 area high school seniors about their college transition at WCC’s March 3 college fair … Honolulu HomeLoans has hired Kailua’s Jessica Rocho Nagatani as business development manager and vice president of recruiting (for loan originators). A wife, mom, and college volleyball player with a magna cum laude triple-major degree, Jessica is considered “passionate” about helping first-time home buyers …

Nalani Mailheau of Hui o Ko‘olaupoko reports that 40 volunteers at a recent Waimanalo recycling drive plucked many “treasures” off the land: 287 tires, six palettes of e-waste, one roll-off of scrap metal and appliances, hundred of batteries and five truckloads of illegally dumped items & & & cchang@midweek.com

Don Ramos

Library assistant Don Ramos has won the 2014 Excellence in Service award from Friends of the Library of Hawaii for his more than three decades of “extremely dedicated, hard-working and talented” contributions to Kahuku Library. Don, who also lives in Kahuku, especially stands out for his graphic art skills that enhance the library’s displays and programs (dinosaurs, superheroes, etc.). He started as a summer youth worker in 1975 …

Mokulua High Performance Builder has just completed the first single-family home in the country to obtain LEED v4 certification. Located on North Kalaheo Drive, it will be ready in the summer, according to Mokulua owner Mike Fairall …

Kailua freshman Ansleigh Seaver made the fall dean’s list at Mercer University in Macon, Ga. … Kalaheo High graduate Raine Ikagawa made the fall dean’s list at Macalester College in Minnesota, where she’s a sophomore, and Kailua freshman Philip Kamakana Chu (Kamehameha 2014) made the fall dean’s list at University of Portland …

Sesolo Cocker (Castle 2010) has graduated from Army basic training at Fort Benning, Ga. … Whittier College has announced its fall dean’s list, and Kaneohe’s Bryson Kihara is on it … John Quisano (Castle 2005) has graduated from Air National Guard basic training at Lackland AFB, Texas …

Respected Kaneohe artist Kapulani Landgraf, best known for her work in black-and-white photography, has won a $25,000 grant from the Joan Mitchell Foundation, awarded to “painters and sculptors creating work of exceptional quality through unrestricted career support” & & & cchang@midweek.com

NOAA has picked Kaneohe’s Athline Clark as its new superintendent of Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument. The Kailua High and UH graduate brings 20 years of experience in marine sanctuary work, ranging from the Florida Keys to the Pacific … Kahaluu’s Leland Miyano is putting his professional skills to work as a renowned landscape architect on the Hawaii Forest Institute project at Honolulu Zoo. A bright spot in the zoo’s recent history is the Children’s Discovery Forest, designed by Leland and colleagues at PBR Hawaii & Associates to replicate the greenery of a traditional Hawaiian coastal village. Phase I was blessed Feb. 7 …

The new sales director at Pohai Nani could burst into song in the hallways at any moment. Kaneohe’s John Gruhler III doubles as songwriter, as well as narrator and singer with Hawaii Opera Theatre … Diana Holland has owned The Cutting Zone Salon in Kailua for 20 years, even though the March 4 Waha Nui gave it a different name. So sorry, Diana …

Ulupono Initiative promoted Kailua’s Greg Gaug to vice president in recognition of his efforts on the group’s investment in Hawaii Dairy Farms, Bike-share Hawaii and OpConnect Hawaii … Kailua’s Jacob Maurice Fong and Natalie Anuhea Frissell made Seattle Pacific University’s fall dean’s list with Kaneohe’s Caleb and Kelley Ige …

Speaking of deans, the popular Kaneohe restaurant has moved up the street. Dean’s Drive Inn is now serving its tasty menu from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday-Thursday at 45-270 William Henry Road (the old Zippy’s annex, with plenty of seats) … Or order a Pink’s Hot Dog at Sea Life Park, introduced with much hoopla by Hollywood’s Pink ohana — Beverly Pink, Richard Pink and Gloria Pink. The Pinks have added teriyaki sauce, coleslaw and pineapple to the park’s new 9-inch treat …

From the Pinks to Brights: With granddaughter Caitlin Bright in CPAC’s Footloose (see Page 9 story), Ron and Moira Bright also are proud of son Clarke and Lynell‘s sons. Timothy is in Fullerton College’s spring musical, and Christopher has a job at Disney Animation Studio in Burbank, following graduation from Chapman University film school & & & cchang@midweek.com

Samuel Perez Hults

Kailua’s Samuel Perez Hults took second place in Master of the Ocean, an international watersports battle held Feb. 22-28 in the Dominican Republic, his native land. First place went to Maui pro athlete Zane Schweitzer. The competition combined kite-boarding, windsurfing, surfing and SUP to find the top overall wave rider. Samuel, 28, owns Sammy’s Aloha Watersports in Kailua …

Five Windward teens are among 23 finalists in the 2015 Kaha Ki‘i Congressional Art Competition. U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard will announce the winners Saturday, but readers also can have a say in Gabbard’s People’s Choice awards by March 26 on her Facebook page. Artistic students include Shion Goldstein, Lili Maero and Triana Tran of Le Jardin Academy; and Shelby Mendes and RJ Sigel of Castle High …

More art: Three Kahuku High students have their works on view through April 10 at Hawaii State Art Museum, as winners in the 2015 Hawaii Regional Scholastic Art Awards program. Sadie Morelock earned a Gold Key for her painting “Bargaining.” Benjamin Earl (design, “Red Raider Nation”) and India Pyzel (design, “Benoa ’bout It”) earned Silver Keys … Kaneohe improv artist Kimee Balmilero, a Castle Performing Arts Center and Broadway veteran who starred in an Emmy-nominated TV show, is putting on Hawaii’s first Sketch Comedy Festival, with Saturday Night Live as “a huge inspiration.” Kimee assembled talent from L.A., NYC and right here for sketches and films March 28-29 at Doris Duke Theatre (kimee@bizgym.org) …

Friends and kin of Waimanalo cultural practitioner and healer kumu Alva James Andrews will celebrate his life from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. April 3 at Ka Ho‘oilina na Kuhio Community Center 41-253 ‘Ilauhole St. (paolahawaii@gmail.com). “To have met Uncle Alva was to be loved and changed by his presence,” writes Kate Brenton …

Harry and Florence (Iida) Fanning plan to add more families to a revision of Florence’s Partial History of the Japanese in Kaneohe book (2007). They seek area families circa 1898-1959. Call 254-1221 to share your story, or write to them at 44-208 Malae Place, Kaneohe, HI 96744 … Dr. Wally Johnson updates his kolea studies at 7 p.m. Friday at Hale Akoakoa at WCC &&& cchang@midweek.com

Kahaluu’s Mark To-will was thrilled to report home from a training sail aboard the Hikianalia in Auckland. Mark, who now races sailboats professionally, met up with the Malama Honua voyagers in mid-March in New Zealand. “It’s fantastic to be here at the same time as Hokule‘a and Hikianalia and reconnect with the whole community and see some familiar faces” …

Speaking of Polynesian Voyaging Society’s awesome trip, Windward entertainers Jack Johnson and Paula Fuga have recorded Chucky Boy Chock‘s Na Ho‘okele Opiopio, a song to honor the project and support it financially. Download it at rallysong.com/jack-johnson. “We are proud to support them,” Jack says …

Hawaiian Airlines has hired Kaneohe’s Mark Packard as senior director, treasury, to oversee financial risk management, fleet planning and more. Mark has more than 15 years of experience in aviation and finance, plus degrees in Japanese and international affairs … Kaneohe’s Tracia Villanueva earned a career-best score (9.850) on the balance beam for Seattle Pacific at the Mountain Pacific Sports Federation Women’s Gymnastics Championships March 21 in Alaska …

Kailua’s Steven Barber made the fall and winter dean’s list at Columbia College’s Fort Worth campus … Services were held March 14 in Kailua for Robert Hockaday, 87, who with his late wife Martha raised four kids in Lanikai, took them on grand adventures and then wrote about “how to travel with kids.” Later at Pohai Nani, Robert also organized its library and established a collection of sing-along books and staff histories …

Kaneohe’s Sherrie Au has rejoined Locations, bringing back with her decades of real estate experience, especially in the luxury markets. She’s also in Kaneohe Business Group and New Hope Christian Fellowship … Pohai Nani has an art studio that showcases work by its residents, such as the current “Chinatown, Etc.,” a collection of photos by former Honolulu Academy of Art director Jim Foster …

More about Mike Fairall‘s Mokulua High Performance Builder: His LEED house on Kalaheo Avenue is pau — months ahead of the official debut of its V-4 certification & & & cchang@midweek.com

As part of the 2015 Kaha Ki‘i Congressional Art Competition, Le Jardin student Shion Goldstein took second place for “Animal Kaleidoscope,” and it will hang in U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard‘s Washington, D.C., office. The top four winners were announced March 28 by the congresswoman …

Closer to home, Kaneohe-based Hula Preservation Society has a role at this week’s Merrie Monarch Festival, sharing with attendees who visit ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center the stories of late kumu hulas ‘Iolani Luahine and Nona Beamer. Special guests of HPS will be Windward’s own Kawaikapuokalani Hewett and Calvin Hoe …

Kaneohe couple Carol D’Angelo and Dexter Doi have some cool eco-friendly, locally made tote bags out, just in time for Earth Day. It will help you get past the plastic bag ban in July. See for yourself at ecolicioushawaii.com … Kaneohe’s Maureen Severson, an independent agent in Coldwell Banker Pacific Properties’ Windward office, has earned the Previews Property Specialist designation (for the luxury real estate market). Maureen also does the Ironman and is on the board of Hawaii Youth Sailing …

PCNC Barbara Huonker is appealing to fans of Enchanted Lake Elementary to donate to its (tax-deductible) fund drive for 20 Chromebooks. “We need to get these laptops into the students’ hands,” she declares. Call her at 263-1411, ext. 233 … Enchanted Lake’s Chelsey Wall has joined Coldwell Banker Pacific Properties’ Windward office as an independent agent, bringing seven years of industry experience in Windward, plus an HPU public relations degree … James Cogswell changed up the monthly workday April 4 at Kawainui restoration ponds by leading volunteers in a watercolor painting session to celebrate Earth Day and capture the beauty of the marsh. Who knows what he’ll do next time (266-0911) …

Russell Jones of Kailua’s Russell Hearing Aids teamed up with EarQ and the NFL Players Association on Maui last month to help screen players’ hearing and find solutions to improve their lives & & & cchang@midweek.com

Aikahi Elementary sixth-grader Nick Sarji correctly spelled “fabula” in the 12th round of the Hawaii State Spelling Bee March 20 at New Hope auditorium and won it all, including a trip to Washington, D.C., May 24-29 for “Bee Week” and the 2015 Scripps National Spelling Bee. Nick, who also spelled his way into the state’s 2014 finals, loves social studies and says he want to become a cyber developer …

Three Heeia Elementary students recited their winning poems (among sixth-graders) before Mayor Kirk Caldwell and the crowd at the April 11 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Peace Poetry Contest awards ceremony: Kaylie Kamark‘s “Peaceful Ways to Change,” Makala LeStrange-Tupouniua‘s “Martin Had a Dream” and Randy Aiwohi‘s “The People were Proud” … The Random Weirdos band out of Kailua Music School will open for Grammy award-winner Jack White tonight (April 15) at Blaisdell Arena (ticketmaster.com)…

The April 6 Chamber Music concert at Paliku, with family and friends attending, was dedicated to the late Red Miller, a great fan and major donor to the theater … Aikahi native who went Hollywood, B.K. Cannon, has just filmed a new Yahoo eight-episode series in Las Vegas, Sin City Saints with Malin Akerman, Tom Arnold and Andrew Santino. B.K. (who switched from brunette to blonde) is a regular in the adult comedy, which started streaming March 23 on Yahoo Screen (screen.yahoo.com/sin-city-saints) …

Not only does Ahuimanu’s Herman Perreira pick up litter on Kahekili Highway during his morning walks to the Kaneohe metropolis, he also pulls down old yard-sale signs. Thanks again, Herman … You can become a foster care volunteer for Hawaiian Humane Society, just like Dr. Jill Yoshicedo of Kailua Animal Clinic. Jill’s taken in all creatures, great and small, from rats to a 45-pound tortoise. Call HHS at 356-2229 … Congratulations to new graduates of Pacific University in Oregon: Kailua’s James Duncan (bachelor’s degree); Kaneohe master’s degrees: Cathlene Goya, Kasey Kehoe and Katherine Sakumoto; and a doctorate in clinical psychology for Kaneohe’s Lauren Kagami & & & cchang@midweek.com

Le Jardin Academy’s 2014 yearbook, Define, was recog nized by Columbia Scholastic Press Association as one of the “best of the best” in yearbook design and coverage. Applause for former adviser Susan St. John, and class editors Madeline St. John, Renee van Bergeijk, Katherine Jacobs, and Hayley Dietrich and Tawny Ventura. The 2015 Jostens Look Book will feature the Kailua private school’s effort …

Kailua’s Erland Odd is now vice president of eCommerce and digital strategy for Castle Resorts & Hotels, an aptitude he’s developed over 15 years in Hawaii’s hospitality industry. Erland got his start at Goteborgs Tekniska Institute in Sweden (IT and electrical engineering), and then HPU … Kaneohe’s Bob Figgs, commander of the Los Angeles-class fast attack submarine USS Louisville, safely saw her back into Pearl Harbor April 10 from national security maneuvers during a six-month deployment between Hawaii and the Arabian Sea …

There’s hope ahead for health care. Fifteen Castle High HOSA (health occupations) students, plus two alumni, placed in the top three for their events at the state competition last month, making them eligible to attend the national conference in Texas in June, and Garrett Cho was elected vice president of HOSA programs for Hawaii … Kailua resident Stewart Crawford has been appointed to ABET Computing Accreditation Commission, which evaluates college and university programs in applied science, computing, engineering and engineering technology. Stewart also chairs HPU’s computer science department and actively promotes computer-enhanced STEM learning in high schools here …

Honolulu HomeLoans honored two Kailua employees at a recent company appreciation lunch. Loan manager David Vieira won the Kokua award for “demonstrating the aloha spirit, a selfless attitude and a willingness to help others (he’s a trainer with good advice).” Loan manager Alan Fentriss was recognized as Top Producer-Retail, and was rewarded with a trip for two to Maui … Author John Clark‘s newest book is North Shore Place Names: Kahuku to Ka‘ena from University of Hawaii Press & & & cchang@midweek.com

Kaneohe Community and Senior Center has produced its second Lei Day Queen in a row for the city, Danielle Pomaika‘i ‘O Keikilani Akiona. Pomai, a Castle graduate and hairstylist, teaches hula at the center and succeeds 2014 queen Louise Alina, her Kaneohe colleague. She will preside over the annual Lei Day festivities Friday at Kapiolani Park and be an ambassador of aloha at many public ceremonies in coming weeks. Her Second Princess is Whitney Miyahira, also of Kaneohe … Thumbs up to Kalaheo High School, which boosted its college enrollment figures by 15 percent from 2012 to 2014 …

Just to make sure you look up in time, the Blue Angels are coming Oct. 17 and 18 for their Marine base air show … Owner Jesse Aguinaldo was happy to open his second Mahaloha Burger April 21 at 143 Hekili St., with a fun menu starring its Original Loco Moco Burger made from Big Island beef and even a lettuce wrap alternative, if you feel guilty about the richer stuff …

Full-time Windward students are doing well at Omaha’s Creighton University. Here’s who made the fall dean’s list: Kailua’s Kelcie Emoto, Matthew Imai, Brandon Iwaishi, Eric Magliulo and Matthew Noguchi; Kaneohe’s Larissa Hamada, Jonathan Santiago and Shawnalyn Sunagawa, and Waimanalo’s Eric Wolfe …

Travis Somera (Kailua 2009), Justin Gachalian (Castle 2006) and Kailua’s Hunter Benson have graduated from Air Force basic training at Lackland AFB, Texas … Servco Lexus has named Kailua High grad (and former McKenna Motors employee) Jameson Delanoza as its service manager in charge of 46 team members, making sure every customer is happy … Kaneohe Elementary made its mark in the Nene Award contests surrounding the naming of R.J. Palacio‘s Wonder as Hawaii children’s 2015 favorite author. Graysen Oumi was a winner in Digital Media, while Honorable Mentions went to essayists Cassidy Furutani and Michael Quinn for their persuasive posters. Even Darth Vader attended the Nene ceremonies April 9 in Honolulu. Wonder is about a boy with extreme facial abnormalities who endures taunting from classmates and struggles to be “just another student” & & & cchang@midweek.com

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