District Matters …Rep. Lauren Matsumoto

Now that the 2014 election cycle is behind us, yards and fences will seem less colorful as campaign signs are removed; and watching television will return to the advertisements and commercials we love to hate.

But have you ever wondered who the real political leaders are?

Some might say the political leaders are the ones with the most yard signs and bumper stickers, or the ones who raise the most money, or even the ones who win the elections.

The plain and unvarnished truth is that YOU are the real political leaders. Our form of government is based on the philosophy of “We the People,” meaning of the people, for the people and by the people. Our most treasured right — and highest civic responsibility — is the ability to vote and have a voice in deciding who will be elected to offices at every level of our government.

It is unfortunate that so many of our family, friends and neighbors choose to overlook the power and leadership intertwined in the simple act of voting.

Perhaps because we don’t do it every year (like having a birthday), we neglect this important civic obligation. When you vote, you exert political leadership.

Many have sacrificed their lives to protect and guarantee our cherished right to vote. We celebrated Veterans’ Day yesterday to commemorate those who fought for our freedom.

Let’s be leaders and continue to honor them by opting to vote in every election. It is as much for our past as it is for our future.

Please remember the people suffering from the damage caused by the lava flow and recent storms.

Contact me if you have questions about our community. Call 586-9490 or email repmatsumoto@capitol.hawaii.gov, or visit repmatsumoto.com.

In a sense, the Mililani football team’s 2014 season began the moment its 2013 season ended — when it was narrowly defeated by Punahou in the Division I state championship game last November.

The Trojans haven’t dropped a game since, and 11 wins later, they now find themselves one win away from playing for this year’s state title. Mililani meets either Kamehameha-Maui or Farrington at 4 p.m. Saturday in one of two semifinal games, with the winner moving on to the state championship game, which will be played Nov. 21 at Aloha Stadium. A look at the team’s prospects is below.

Mililani High Trojans

Record: 11-0 overall (7-0 in the OIA Blue Division)

Wins: Saint Louis 63-47 at home Aug. 16, Kailua 49-7 at home Aug. 23, Kapolei 41-14 on the road Aug. 30, Aiea 56-14 on the road Sept. 12, Campbell 57-28 on the road Sept. 19, Farrington 41-14 at home Sept. 27, Moanalua 48-26 at home Oct. 4, Kaiser 54-14 at home Oct. 1, Campbell 47-15 at Aloha Stadium Oct. 23, Kahuku 20-7 at Aloha Stadium Oct. 31

Signature wins: Saint Louis, Campbell, Farrington, Campbell, Kahuku

Losses: None

Trojans in the state tournament: This year will mark Mililani’s seventh appearance in the Division I state tournament since the HHSAA divided into two divisions in 2003. The Trojans own a 2-6 all-time record in the tourney with both wins coming under Rod York (2012 and 2013).

Did you know? Mililani entered last Friday’s OIA title game having won 33 of its last 38 games, dating back to the first week of its 2012 season.

Trojans at a glance: It all begins up front for the offense, led by senior leader and center Brett D’Amato and his offensive line mates: left tackle Antonio Ala, left guard Derrick Fetui-Suapaia, right guard Andru Tovi, and right tackle Jordan Agasiva. As the calendar turns to November, the Trojan line has been as cohesive and productive as any in the state and will be a huge factor in the state title quest.

Elsewhere on the offensive side of the ball, play-makers can be found at every position, led by Offensive Player of the Year candidate McKenzie Milton. A junior quarterback, Milton had thrown for 2,556 yards and 26 touchdowns (with just five interceptions)

as of last weekend. He also has run for 711 yards and 11 scores on the ground, making him the Trojans’ second-leading ground gainer behind running back Vavae Malepeai (1,126 yards, 6.7 yards per carry, 22 TDs).

Receivers Kalakaua

Timoteo, Bronson Ramos, Bryson Ventura and Kainoa Wilson have combined for 19 touchdown receptions among them. Wilson in particular has risen to the cause of late, with four of his six touchdown receptions in the last two games.

The Trojans are scoring 45 points per game to date and averaging 517 total yards per outing, including 289 passing and 228 on the ground.

Mililani entered spring football practice last May having to rebuild its defense to a large degree after graduating several starters from the unit, but you would never know it, given how well the team has played this season. The defense enters this week’s semifinal game having given up just 16.9 points per game through its first 11 contests this year. Highlighting the effort has been the run defense, which is yielding only 98 yards per game.

The defense has been especially stout coming out of half time, as Mililani has shut out its last five opponents in the third quarter. Indeed, you have to go back to week six against Campbell to find a game where the Trojans gave up a score in the third quarter.

jackster.1969@yahoo.com

With the big picture in mind, developing a consistent winner has been the prevailing theme for Mililani girls bowling head coach Dennis August and his team.

The 2014 bowlers did their best to that end, placing fifth at the recent state bowling championships in Kona. The Mililani girls have made states five years in a row, and claimed titles in 2005 and 2007.

“We’re slowly building,” August said. “Qualifying for states is no longer a new thing here. Even the young ones, they’ve been there.”

In fact, almost the entire roster was young this season, with Krstyn Yata as the lone senior.

Depth carried Mililani to its finish at the state finals, as it had seven players participating: Erin Ohta (26th; 1,358), Kacey Brighter (32nd; 1,334), Taylor Ishisaka (44th; 1,261), Keri Shigeta (47th; 1,257),

Yata (50th; 1,244), Karli Shidaki (55th; 1,217) and Kirsten Ortiz (58th; 1,208). Karla Higa also competed during the season and in the OIA Individual and Team finals.

In all, Mililani totaled 6,378 pins to secure its fifth-place standing. OIA West rival Pearl City won its fourth straight Team title as expected with 7,276 pins, followed by Hawaii Baptist Academy (7,126), Moanalua (6,732) and Sacred Hearts Academy (6,689).

The Trojans could have fared even better, but for a tough outing on the final day, according to the coach. “I was happy, but I’m sure they aren’t as satisfied,” said August, who is assisted by daughter Danielle. “After the first day, we were in fourth, and I thought we had a real chance to get up to third or even second, but we struggled. It’s a long format, and they may have been a bit tired.”

As throughout the season, August had high praise for his team’s mental toughness at the state tournament. “It was really surprising to me to watch them struggle on the last day and then an hour after we’re done, be all smiles. They’re a resilient group. They work hard, but they don’t let it get to them.”

Looking ahead to 2015, expectations are as high as ever with so many bowlers expected back. “That gives us a bright outlook. Kacey (Brighter), Keri (Shigeta) and Karli (Shidaki) will be seniors next year. They know what to expect now.”

Excitement around the girls bowling program has been fueled along by the support from parents.

“They are so important in this, as far as bringing the kids to practice every day and getting them the right equipment,” August said. “They try their best to help the kids become successful. It’s really important to have the backing of the parents.”

jackster.1969@yahoo.com

Email event items to cchang@midweek.com by Nov. 19 for the Nov. 26 edition.

* CAREGIVERS Central Oahu Caregivers hosts a support group at 7 p.m. Nov. 13 (and each second Thursday) at Wahiawa General Hospital. Everyone is welcome. Call 623-6707.

* BOATING SAFELY U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary volunteers lead a 10-hour Boating Safely course Nov. 13-Dec. 2, meeting at 6:15 p.m. Nov. 13, 18, 20, 25 and Dec. 2 in Leilehua High School Room 18. Fee is $45 including a “driver’s license” upon completion. As of Nov. 10, the state requires special licenses for boat operators. Call 778-5738.

* STUDENT PLAY Wahiawa Middle School drama class presents Burton Bumgarner’s Mini Loa Luau, directed by James Au, at 7 p.m. Nov. 14 in the school cafeteria. Call 622-6500.

* BOOK SALE Friends of Waialua Library have a book sale from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 15, with 50 percent off on all children’s books. Call 637-8286.

* FAMILY DAYWaimea Valley hosts La Ohana (family) Day Nov. 16 (and every third Sunday) with half-off admission for kama’aina and military, makahiki games, demonstrations, a keiki scavenger hunt, artisans and more. Call 638-7766.

* NEIGHBORS Wahiawa-Whitmore Village Neighborhood Board meets at 7 p.m. Nov. 17 in Wahiawa District Park’s Halekoa Building, Mililani Mauka-Launani Valley meets at 7 p.m. Nov. 18 at Mililani Mauka Elementary, Mililani-Waipio-Melemanu meets at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 26 at Mililani Rec Center 3, and North Shore meets at 7 p.m. Nov. 25 at Waialua Elementary cafeteria. Call 768-3710.

* FIRST AID Wayland Baptist University hosts Hawaii Red Cross adult first aid training classes from 10 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. Nov. 18 and 19 at 95-1091 Ainamakua Drive in Mililani Mauka. For fees and to register, call 1-800-733-2767.

* LIONS DEN Wahiawa Lions Club meets at 6:45 p.m. Nov. 19 at Dot’s Restaurant for dinner and to hear from Lion Phil Sharp, speaking on how to make and enjoy your own home brew, with samples. Call 291-6151 or 522-5149.

* FILM NIGHT Waialua Community Association screens Nanny McPhee at 7 p.m. Nov. 21 in the gym. Call 637-4606.

* SUNSET CRAFTS Sunset Beach Elementary’s 19th annual Christmas craft fair runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 22. Call 638-8777.

* SKETCHERSWaialua Library hosts a new Waialua Sketchers group, meeting at 11 a.m. Nov. 22. Bring sketchbook, pencils, pens and a object for a group still-life. The group meets every fourth Saturday. Call 637-8286.

* BLOOD DRIVE Hawaii Blood Bank has a donor drive from 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Nov. 28 at Wahiawa General Hospital. Call 848-4770.

* BENEFIT SALE Mililani 10-s Kidz tennis team has its annual “huge” benefit garage sale from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 29 at Mililani High School to support its league play. Call 371-4007.

* BEACH CLEANUP Save the Sea Turtles and Adopt a Beach Hawaii sponsor a beach cleanup at 10 a.m. Nov. 29 on the North Shore. Call 637-2211.

* READERS Waialua Library’s readers group meets at 9:30 a.m. Dec. 4 to discuss Homer’s epic poem The Odyssey. The group meets every fourth Thursday. Call 637-8286.

* PARKINSON’S A Parkinson’s support group meets at 1 p.m. Dec. 6 (and each first Saturday) in Waialua United Church of Christ, 67-174 Farrington Hwy. Call Grant at 282-9864.

* BANDSTANDWaialua Bandstand presents a Bluegrass Special with entertainment by The North Shore Ramblers and Sam and the Sumo Ninjaz at 4 p.m. Dec. 7. Call 637-9721 or email waialuaband-stand@gmail.com.

* HALEIWA MARCH North Shore Chamber of Commerce presents its annual Haleiwa Town Christmas Parade from 6 to 8 p.m. Dec. 12, moving from Weed Circle to Haleiwa Beach Park. Call 637-4558 or 772-4896.

* WAIPIO PARADE The Gentry Waipio Community Association Christmas Parade begins at 10 a.m. Dec. 13 at Waipio Shopping Center, moves through the community and back to the center, followed by live holiday entertainment from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Call 671-2272.

Ongoing

* CONSERVATION The Oahu Army Natural Resource Program welcomes volunteers for its service trips and environmental out-reach projects in November and December in the Waianae and Ko’olau mountains to control invasive weeds and more. Most workdays begin at the Wahiawa baseyard, and all tools are provided. Call Kim or Celeste at 656-7741.

* COMPUTINGWaialua Library offers free instruction in computers at 9 a.m. each Friday. Call 637-8286.

* GARDENERS Mililani Garden Club meets at 9:30 a.m. on the third Thursday at Mililani Mauka Rec Center 6 for a program, demonstration or excursion. The public is welcome. Call 637-0488.

* WAIALUA KEIKI Waialua Library has a new Toddler Time at 10 a.m. Fridays, as well as its children’s storytime (with crafts) at 10 a.m. Saturdays. Call 637-8286.

* CRESTVIEW CLUB The Crestview Seniors Club meets from 9:30 a.m. to noon each Friday at Crestview Community Park for planned fun activities and outings. All residents age 55 and older are welcome. Call Guy at 671-4838.

* SENIOR CLASSES Anuenue Hale Wellness Center at Helemano offers a variety of free weekday classes and activities for seniors, injured war veterans and those with disabilities. Call Yvonne at 622-3929.

* ZUMBA Debbie Rosa-rio leads ongoing Zumba classes at 6:45 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 9 a.m. Saturday at Mililani Waena Elementary. Fee is $5 per class or $45 per month. Call 780-5640.

* ALZHEIMER’S HELP An Alzheimer’s support group meets at 6:30 p.m. on the fourth Wednesday of the month at The Plaza in Mililani. Call 591-2771.

* ZUMBA Mililani Town Center hosts a free Zumba demonstration class at 6:30 p.m. on the last Friday of the month at the gazebo. Call 625-0108.

* MILILANI SENIORS Mililani Golden Years seniors club meets from 9:30 a.m. to noon Fridays at Mililani District Park for planned activities. All residents age 55 and older are welcome. Call 623-5258.

* PUPUKEA SENIORS Pohai Na Makua o Pupukea seniors club meets monthly at 9:30 a.m. on the first Tuesday, August through May, at Sunset Beach Recreation Center. Call 638-7213.

* HALEIWA SENIORS The Haleiwa Seniors club meets from 8 to 11:30 a.m. every Thursday at Waialua Community Association, across from Haleiwa post office. Arts and crafts teachers also are welcome to assist. Call 637-4606.

* WAHIAWA SENIORS The city sponsors weekly programs and activities for the Wahiawa Rainbows at 8:30 a.m. Mondays at Wahiawa District Park. Call 621-5663.

* WHITMORE CLUB The city sponsors weekly programs and activities for Whitmore Seniors Club at 9 a.m. Fridays at Whitmore Community Park. Call 622-2420.

* MASTERS SWIM Veterans Memorial Aquatic Center has a U.S. Masters swimming program, meeting at 7 p.m. each Monday and Wednesday at Central Oahu Regional Park. Call 677-8849.

* TOASTMASTERS Mililani Toastmasters Club meets at 7:30 p.m. Mondays at Mililani Ike Elementary School to help members improve their public speaking and leadership skills. Call 220-5093.

* KAHUKU MUSIC Turtle Bay Resort offers live local music from 6 p.m. Saturday and most weeknights. Call 689-1800.

* STORIES, FILMS Wahiawa Library sponsors a free storytime from 6 to 7:15 p.m. each Thursday and a free Movie Night at 5 p.m. each Tuesday. Call 622-6345.

* LANGUAGES Language Wonderland conducts Saturday morning classes for keiki age 12 and younger in Japanese and Mandarin Chinese as well as French, Spanish and Russian. Fee is $165 for 10 classes. Call 1-760-477-3310 or visit language-wonderland.com.

* PADDLE FITNESS Rainbow Watersports has Stand Up Paddle Fitness classes 9.30 a.m. Saturdays at Haleiwa Bay. Call 372-9304.

* HULA Kumu hula Ali’i Manu has non-competitive hula classes (auana, kahiko and the aloha spirit) for the public at 7 p.m. Tuesdays at Mililani Uka Elementary School. Men and women ages 15 and up are welcome. Call 478-2400.

Kidani’s Korner …Sen. Michelle Kidani

Siren update

The Pacific hurricane season officially ends Nov. 30, but it’s always important to be vigilant about severe weather and other emergency conditions at any time of the year.

I’ve reported previously about the importance of our civil defense warning system and the malfunctioning siren in Crestview that serves as a warning device for neighboring communities Waikele and Waipio Gentry.

State Civil Defense has now informed me that a replacement for the Crestview siren should be in place in early December — a few weeks ahead of schedule — restoring service to those three communities. Also, our neighborhood warning coverage will improve with a new siren to be installed at Waikele Community Park sometime in 2015. We are grateful to State Civil Defense for moving these two projects onto its priority list.

State construction projects

Funds approved by the Legislature continue to support local jobs and improve our schools. A contract in the amount of $253,600 has been awarded to Haron Construction of Pearl City for construction of a second ramp to provide additional disability access to the Kaleiopuu Elementary School campus in Village Park, as well as quicker evacuation from the campus in the event of an emergency. The award notice indicates that work on the new ramp should begin soon.

The state also has released $8 million we approved for major structural repairs, interior renovations and improvements at Leeward Community College Theatre.

The theater, which hosts 100,000 patrons a year, was completed in 1974, and no major renovation work has been performed since.

2015 Legislative session approaching

Our 2015 Legislative session begins in just two months, and already informational briefings and hearings on potential legislative issues are being scheduled. In odd-numbered years, we formulate a two-year budget for the state, and our deliberations will be especially important to further stabilize our economy and support state services.

I have accepted an appointment as chairwoman of the Committee on Education, where I previously served as vice chairwoman. The committee oversees programs in the Department of Education, including early education, K-12 public schools, public charter schools, continuing education and the state’s public library system.

DOE’s budget is one of the largest of any state agency, and I look forward to the challenges of supporting our public school students and teachers with the best resources we can afford.

As always, I look forward to hearing ideas you may have about public education and any other issues that are likely to come before us in the new year.

Finally, allow me to extend my sincere mahalo for the strong support that district residents showed me on election day earlier this month.

I am humbled by your vote of confidence and gladly accept the responsibility of representing you in the state Senate for the next four years. You can be assured that I will be working diligently on your behalf.

Meanwhile, with Thanksgiving and the holiday season approaching, I wish all of my friends and neighbors in our several communities all the best for joyful celebrations in the company of family and friends.

Contact state Sen. Michelle Kidani at 586-7100 or email senkidani@capitol.hawaii.gov.

When the Kapolei coaching staff created the Oahu Interleague Soccer Showcase in 2010, the goal was to have a preseason tournament akin to a mini state tournament.

Four years later, the tournament has definitely lived up to its promise with four state champions having already taken part in the OISS, including last year’s Division I champion, Iolani.

“We knew we weren’t likely to play each other (OIA versus ILH teams) in the regular season, so we wanted to have a high-level preseason tournament,” said Kapolei coach Ryan Lau, who shares head coaching duties with Neal Sakaue and Mark Ishii. “It’s been a good tournament — we’ve traditionally had strong teams from both sides.”

With the fifth edition of the showcase this weekend, an all-star lineup is expected, including host Kapolei and fellow OIA teams Kalani and Mililani and ILH’s Punahou, Kamehameha and defending Division II state champion Mid-Pacific.

Newcomer Mid-Pacific went 7-4-4 in 2013-14, finishing with a 4-4-4 mark in the ILH.

Punahou finished 11-5-3 overall (6-3-3), while Kamehameha (6-4-5, 5-2-5) also had a solid season despite missing the state tournament.

Mililani went 15-4 last season (10-0 versus OIA West teams), while Kalani finished 13-7 (8-2 in the OIA East) a year after winning the 2012-13 DI state tournament.

Kapolei finished 2013-14 with a 12-6-1 mark, including a 9-1 record in the OIA West.

As in past years, OIA teams will not play each other in the OISS. Each game instead will pit an OIA team opposite an ILH team.

The Hurricanes’ public unveiling will be at 6 p.m. Friday, when they host Kamehameha.

A matchup between Kalani and Mid-Pacific follows at 8.

On Saturday, some teams will play two games. Kapolei will meet Punahou at 9 a.m. and also play Mid-Pacific at 7 p.m.

Thursday’s Punahou-Mililani game will kick off the tournament. (The game was scheduled for Thursday in case both Punahou and Mililani play in the state football championship game Friday night.)

In future seasons, the OISS likely will move the tournament back a week or two on the calendar, according to Lau.

The Hurricanes were only to finalize their roster early this week before taking part in the tournament.

“It’s been good for all of us to see what we have (in week one),” he said, “but we would eventually like to move it.”

Although Kapolei lost OIA West Player of the Year Keo Ponce to graduation, it returns several key players, highlighted by defender Lyric DeLeon, forward Shandon Hopeau and forward/midfielder CJ Harvey.

DeLeon and Hopeau are juniors, while Harvey is a senior.

“We feel like we have a top-flight player at each position with them,” Lau said. “More is expected from them this year. They’ve been productive, and now we expect them to be leaders.”

Hopeau and Harvey combined to score 15 goals for Kapolei last season.

Lau also has high hopes for sophomore midfielder Garrison Lee and junior goalkeeper Makana Breault.

“Garrison will be very vital to us, and if Makana can become more consistent, he can be a top-flight goalkeeper.”

Also back are sophomore midfielder/defender Beau Meyer and senior defender Quinn Thierbach.

Lau also expects freshman Sean Yoshida to have an immediate impact.

“We’re very excited about his versatility,” he said. “He can help us at multiple positions.”

Kapolei opens its OIA season Dec. 10 against Radford at home.

Should the Waipahu girls soccer team make a post-season run in mid-February, the Marauders likely will look back on their depth as a huge contributing factor, according to head coach Elaina Paredes.

“We have 13 seniors who have all developed through the program,” she said. “By now, most of them have been playing together for at least two years. We have a deep roster this year. I don’t see any break in the tempo of the game (when substituting). That really excites me.”

Midfielder Jessica Gonzales is one reason for that optimism. A senior, she is the lone holdover from Waipahu’s 2010-11 OIA White championship team and has been a mainstay in the lineup ever since.

The team played in Division I the last two seasons, but has been shifted back to DII for this season.

“I’m hoping she’ll end her career winning it again,” Paredes said of Gonzales. “She’s matured as well, especially in pressure situations, and she’s really developed her ball-handling skills and her ability to see the field.”

Paredes also had high praise for senior defender Kara Phillips, who will anchor the back. “We’re looking for her to be the leader on the defensive side of the field. She’s also the student body president, so she has a lot on her plate.”

In addition to its large senior class, Waipahu’s depth improved further in the off-season in part because of the arrival of Kapolei transfer Abigail Castro, and freshmen Karlee Manding, Alysha Somera and Jenna Ramirez.

“Our three freshmen are outstanding,” Paredes said of the trio, who all play for Rush Soccer Club during the high school’s off-season. “I don’t usually pick up freshmen for the varsity unless they’re ready to be starters.”

Meanwhile, Castro is projected to be starter as goalie.

“She’s very, very strong, and I like her attitude. Boxing is actually her first sport — she travels to the Mainland to compete in tournaments — so she’s very athletic and very fit.”

Solidifying the defense is a theme for Waipahu’s preseason camp, according to Paredes, who noted the addition of former University of Hawaii player Rachael Domingo to her coaching staff. “We’ve always been defensive-minded, but looking at the talent we have this season, we want to be able to make sure we keep the score down,” she explained. “Rachael’s been helping us with our defense. We’ve been making a concerted effort on our defense from an individual standpoint through our team defense.”

Waipahu’s OIA opener is set for Dec. 5, when the Marauders host Campbell. Paredes is hoping the public will fill the stands.

“We really would appreciate some support,” she said. “The girls really work hard, and the community is going to be proud of their soccer team this year.”

jackster.1969@yahoo.com

Pearl City Library will celebrate its 45th anniversary Sunday with special programs for the community in addition to its normal 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday operating hours. Free events include:

* Balloon Monsoon from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. — Children can watch balloon masters craft magical sculptures, which they can take home.

* Chinese Lion Dance at 2 p.m. — Lung Kong Physical Cultural Club will perform a lion dance to ward off evil spirits. Refreshments are available while supplies last.

Pearl City Library opened Nov. 16, 1969, as the Pearl City Regional Library.

For more information, call the library at 453-6566.

Send West Oahu items to cchang@midweek.com by Nov. 19 to be considered for the Nov. 26 edition.

* NEW MARKET Prince Kuhio Community Center sponsors The Gathering Place market from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. Nov. 17, 24 and each Monday at 91-1270 Kinoiki St. in Kapolei, offering food, crafts and entertainment to bring Westside folks together. Vendors may call Megan at 772-6682.

* MONEY Financial educator Karen Ho gives tips on everyday ways to save money in the free program “Money Matters” at 1 p.m. Nov. 18 at Kapolei Library. Call 693-7050.

* EWA WATER The Board of Water Supply and city Department of Planning and Permitting conduct a second community meeting from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Nov. 19 at Kapolei Hale, conference room A to share preliminary water use and projected demand figures for Ewa, and to discuss Ewa’s water future. Email sherrihiraoka@townscapeinc.com.

* YOUTUBE STAR UH West Oahu’s Creative Media Masters series features YouTube sensation and singer/songwriter AJ Rafael, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Nov. 20 in the college library, first floor. Email wlorenc@hawaii.edu.

* PEACE PLAY Ohana Arts presents the youth musical Peace On Your Wings Nov. 20-22 at Leeward CC Theatre, inspired by a girl’s life in Japan after the bombing of Hiroshima. Shows are at 7:30 p.m. all three days and also at 2 p.m. Nov. 22. Call 744-5501 or email info@ohanaarts.org.

* NEIGHBORS Waipahu Neighborhood Board meets at 7 p.m. Nov. 20 at FilCom Center, Pearl City at 7 p.m. Nov. 25 at Waiau District Park, and Makakilo-Kapolei-Honokai Hale at 7 p.m. Nov. 26 at Kapolei High cafeteria. For updates, call 768-3710.

* PALISADES PA’INA Pearl City High School Class of 1985 sponsors a “Pau Hana Pa’ina” from 5 to 9 p.m. Nov. 21 at Palisades Rec Center, 2160 A’amanu St., offering heavy pupus, drinks and entertainment for 21 and older with ID. Tickets cost $25 presale, $30 at the door, and proceeds offset class reunion costs. Email pearlcity85@gmail.com.

* E-WASTE Pacific Corporate Solutions takes e-waste items for recycling from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 22 at Pearl City Highlands Elementary School, 1419 Waimano Home Road. No TV sets, alkaline batteries, microwaves or home appliances can be accepted. Call 488-8870.

* WORMS Malama Learning Center conducts a vermicomposting workshop from 9 a.m. to noon Nov. 22 at Kapolei High School, Portable 1. Fee is $15 per person or $40 for families of up to three people. Call 483-0678 or email sayo@malamalearningcenter.org.

* TARO HELP The Kalauao La’au Restoration Project in Ka’onohi plans a public work day from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Nov. 22 in the taro patch, located above Sumida watercress farm at Pearlridge. RSVP by Nov. 19 to 397-8685 or kaonohipoi@gmail.com.

* MARSH HELP Hawaii Nature Center volunteers help restore Pouhala Marsh in Waipahu from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. Nov. 22 and Dec. 20. Call 955-0100, ext. 118.

* PCHS FAIR Pearl City High School has a craft fair from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 23 in the cafeteria to benefit its special education department. Call 454-5666.

* SOCIAL SECURITY Nelson Secretario shares “Strategies to Maximize Your Social Security Income” at 6:30 p.m. Nov. 25 at Ewa Beach Library. Call 689-1204.

* CONCERT UH-West Oahu presents a lunchtime concert and songwriter talk story with Jerry Santos and UHWO faculty from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Nov. 25 in the dining hall; also featuring the college’s ukulele, slack key guitar and Hawaiian Ensemble (12:30-2:15). Call 689-2357.

* BLOOD DRIVE Hawaii Blood Bank has a donor drive from 7 to 11 a.m. Nov. 28 at the Ewa Town Center Foodland. Call 848-4770.

* GABBARD TALK State Sen. Mike Gabbard hosts a Listen Story hour at 9 a.m. Nov. 29 in the Kapolei High teachers lounge. Call 586-6830.

* WINTER FAIR Hawaii Okinawa Center sponsors a winter craft fair from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 29 and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 30 at 94-587 Ukee St. The event also welcomes non-perishable food for Hawaii Foodbank. Call 676-5400.

* HOLIDAY IDEAS Palisades Family and Community Education Club demonstrates holiday ideas at 6 p.m. Dec. 2 at Ewa Beach Library. Call 689-1204.

* CONCERT UH-West Oahu presents a lunchtime concert and songwriter talk story with Henry Kapono and UHWO faculty from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Dec. 3 in the dining hall; also features students performing their original songs, plus comments from UHWO music faculty. Call 689-2357.

* CHORUS The UH-West Oahu University Chorus performs holiday music directed by Jeremy Wong at 7 p.m. Dec. 5 in Campus Center multipurpose room C-208; also features Kapolei High’s Hurricane Singers, and musicians from the public, students, faculty and staff. For details, email Wong at jwong32@hawaii.edu.

* WREATHS Halawa Xeriscape Garden conducts a wreath-making workshop at 10:30 a.m. Dec. 6 at 99-1268 Iwaena St. in Halawa Valley. Fee is $5, and participants should bring their own supplies. For details and to register, call 748-5363.

* MUSEUM GALA Pacific Aviation Museum sponsors its annual “Destinations & Dreams” benefit gala from 6 to 10 p.m. Dec. 6 at the museum’s hangars, featuring guest speaker Chesley B. “Sully” Sullenberger and emcee David Hartman, and honoring Adm. Ronald Hays. Tickets cost $250. For details on this and other events at the museum, call 441-1006.

* KAPOLEI DRIVE Kapolei High School conducts a Going Green recycling drive from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 6, welcoming all kinds of items from metal to computers, reusable clothing, HI-5 containers and more. Call 291-6151.

* BOOK SALE The Friends of Kapolei Library conduct their annual holiday book sale from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 6, offering seasonal books, DVDs, CDs, vinyl records and gifts for all ages. Call 693-7050.

* SNOW DAY Kapolei Shopping Center sponsors “Snow Day in Kapolei” from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 6 during its annual Santa Saturday photos and activities. Call 695-4316 or visit inkapolei.com.

* USS ARIZONA The USS Arizona hosts the Blackened Canteen Ceremony at 11:30 a.m. Dec. 7, an annual event of peace and reconciliation that commemorates the 73rd anniversary of the Pearl Harbor attack. It will be followed by a roundtable discussion at Pacific Aviation Museum. Call 441-1006.

* PALISADES HIKE Hawaiian Trail & Mountain Club leads a 5.8-mile intermediate hike to ‘Iliahi Ridge in Pacific Palisades at 8 a.m. Dec. 7. Visit htmclub.org.

* PC PARADE Pearl City Shopping Center sponsors its annual Christmas Parade at 4 p.m. Dec. 7 from Momilani Elementary School to the shopping center on Hoolaulea Street, followed by a Cruz Night from 5 to 8 p.m. Marchers include Pearl City High School band, scouts, pageant winners, lion dancers and more. Call 554-8190.

* HO’IKE The UH-West Oahu songwriting class shares songs and stories behind what they’ve learned from assistant professor Jon Magnussen at 5 p.m. Dec. 7 in Campus Center #C-225. Call 689-2357.

* EVENING FAIR Hawaii Okinawa Center sponsors its “Evening in Waipio” Craft Fair from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Dec. 10 at 94-587 Ukee St., featuring more than 60 vendors. Call 676-5400.

* KAPOLEI LIGHTS West Oahu’s Electric Light Parade begins at 6 p.m. Dec. 13 at Kapolei fairgrounds, moving to Kapolei Hale for tree lighting ceremonies and a block party. Call 768-3343.

* WAIPIO PARADE Gentry Waipio Community Association’s Christmas Parade begins at 10 a.m. Dec. 13 at Waipio Shopping Center, moves through the community and back to the center, followed by live holiday entertainment from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Call 671-2272.

* SEASON’S BEST Aiea Elementary School hosts a Season’s Best craft fair from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 13. Call 683-6064.

* KAENA POINT Hawaii Nature Center leads a moderate 5-mile coastal hike to Kaena Point from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Dec. 13. Fee is $10 for nonmembers. Call 955-0100, ext. 118.

Ongoing

* FLEA MARKET Hawaii Self Storage conducts a flea market/swap meet from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Friday and Saturday at 2009 Lauwiliwili St. in Kapolei with new items daily and plenty of vendors. Email rrennoe@gmail.com.

* HULA WAIPAHU No Kealoha O Hula halau offers adult beginner classes at 6 p.m. and intermediate classes at 7:10 p.m. Wednesdays in Village Park. Fee is $25 plus a refundable $25 deposit. Call Desiree Numango at 478-0404.

With the Oct. 29 passing of longtime arts supporter Jacqueline Hope Ward, 95, her musical ohana will gather from 6 to 10 p.m. Dec. 6 at Hawaiian Brian’s to celebrate her life and help her family continue the legacy of Ward’s Rafters in Kaimuki.

According to Paul Sato of the Saloon Pilots, a frequent performer at the venue, Jackie was “the matriarch and guiding spirit of Ward’s Rafters, which brought live music of all genres to thousands of people without ever charging an admission fee.”

Saloon Pilots will play a “loving aloha” to her at 7 p.m. Also playing are PBS Little Big Band, Taimane and a “surprise” band. Tickets cost $25 at the door and donations also are being taken at givebacktojackie.com.

“You can help to celebrate Jackie’s spirit and what she believed in by staying close to your family and friends, especially during this month of thanksgiving,” said Sato, a banjo player, in announcing the concert. He estimates that Ward and her late husband Herb invested up to $100,000 in out-of-pocket funds to keep the third-floor loft of their home open to weekly jam sessions, jazz nights, singer/songwriters, poetry readings and more.

For more information, visit givebacktojackie.com.

Mamiya Theatre will be host to sugar-plum dreams in Hawaii State Ballet Junior Company’s production of The Nutcracker, with five shows set for Dec. 19-21.

HSB’s 28th annual production of the Christmas classic, directed by John Landovsky, revolves around a little girl named Clara who saves a nutcracker from the Mouse King and is rewarded with a visit to the Land of Sweets.

Performances on the Saint Louis School campus will be at 7 p.m. Dec. 19, 3:30 and 7 p.m. Dec. 20, and 1 and 4:30 p.m. Dec. 21. Tickets cost $16-$36, and can be purchased at 855-222-2849 or by visiting tututix.com/hawaiistateballet.

For more information, call 947-2755 or go to Hawaii State Ballet’s Facebook page.

Palolo Valley’s Jason Pavia has won a $2,000 Voya Unsung Heroes award, given to teachers who excel at using new learning strategies. Jason will use his grant to expand a “Worms at Work” vermicast system at Kai’ulani Elementary, where he teaches third grade. He wants to reach all three third-grade classrooms, plus recycle all vegetable waste from the cafeteria …

Tammi Chun

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Kahala actor Joji Yoshida was selected to participate in Hawaii International Film Festival Creative Lab’s “The Actors Workshop.” Joji’s most recent film credit was playing opposite Matthew McConaughey in the 2013 award-winning Dallas Buyers Club …

Kaimuki Middle School principal Frank Fernandes was named to the National Assessment Governing Board by U.S. Education Secretary Arne Duncan. The winner of many educator awards, Frank is the longest-serving principal at a single school in the state DOE …

Aina Haina’s Tammi Chun has joined Hawaii Community Foundation as vice president of programs, bringing extensive experience in early learning and education policy. Tammi also was a recipient of a HCF scholarship for her first (of three) college degrees … Jarrett Middle School student Brycen Go, 11, is a certified CPR instructor who has taught thousands of residents how to save a life. He was one of 12 students honored Oct. 11 as Children and Youth Day (CYD) Heroes for being simply amazing in striving to “change the world for the better” …

Shirley Sypert, who teaches Vocal and Dance Expressions at Star of the Sea School, is beginning to share her miracle of recovery from childhood polio, along with her advocacy for the disabled. You can catch a glimpse of her story on her Post Polio and Me show, airing at 8 p.m. Nov. 24 and 4:30 p.m. Dec. 1 on ‘Olelo Channel 54. Expression seems to run in the family: Son Jonathan Sypert currently teaches dance at Kaiser High School cchang@midweek.com

Send East Oahu items to cchang@midweek.com by Dec. 3 for the Dec. 10 edition.

* BOOK SALE All craft and hobby books are half price this month at Friends of Hawaii Kai Library bookstore, open 12:30-4:30 p.m. Monday, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday, and 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday in the library basement. Call 397-0515.

* FENG SHUI Two area libraries host free “Feng Shui in Hawaii” talks by author Clear Englebert, covering problems and solutions for Oahu homes: Aina Haina Library at 6:30 p.m. Nov. 18 (377-2456) and Hawaii Kai Library at 10:30 a.m. Nov. 22 (397-5833).

* NEIGHBORS Kaimuki Neighborhood Board meets at 7 p.m. Nov. 19 and Dec. 17 at Kaimuki Christian Church, Waialae-Kahala at 7 p.m. Nov. 20 at Wesley United Methodist Church, Hawaii Kai at 7 p.m. Nov. 25 at Hahaione Elementary, Kuliouou-Kalani Iki at 7 p.m. Dec. 4 at Aina Haina Library, and Palolo at 7 p.m. Dec. 10 at Palolo Elementary. (All other boards will recess in December.) Call 768-3710.

* BLOOD DRIVES Hawaii Blood Bank has donor drives from 8 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. Nov. 20 at Chaminade University, 7-11:30 a.m. Nov. 30 at Hawaii Kai Library, 7:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Dec. 1 at KCC, and 8 a.m.-noon Dec. 7 by Koko Marina Center Walgreen’s. Call 848-4770.

* SHARKS Waikiki Aquarium offers a free lecture at 7 p.m. Nov. 20 at Mamiya Theatre. A researcher at Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology, Carl Meyer discusses “Shark Tech: Tracking Hidden Hunters of the Deep” as part of the aquarium’s Distinguished Lecture Series. Call 923-9741.

* THIRD FRIDAY Third Friday Kaimuki runs from 5 to 9 p.m. Nov. 21, showcasing restaurants, shops and bars on Waialae Avenue. Merchants host entertainment, demonstrations and free product samples. Visit kaimukihawaii.com.

* KAIMUKI DRIVE Kaimuki High School has rescheduled its Going Green recycling drive for 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 22, accepting all kinds of items, from scrap metal to TV sets and electronic equipment, plus canned food, reusable clothing and household items, and more. Call 291-6151.

* HANAUMA TALKS Hanauma Nature Preserve hosts free public lectures by UH graduate students at 3 p.m. Nov. 23 in the park theater on Maui ground-water discharge, Maunalua Bay algae and tilapia; Nov. 30 on groundwater influences, climate change forecasting and chemical change in oceans; Dec. 7 on the threat to reef corals and (tentative) new concepts in marine science education; Dec. 14 on pollution effects on marine mammals. Parking costs $1. Call 397-5840.

* KALUANUI HIKE Hawaiian Trail & Mountain Club leads a 3-mile novice hike to Kaluanui Ridge in Hawaii Kai at 8 a.m. Nov. 29. Visit htmclub.org.

* E-WASTE Pacific Corporate Solutions takes e-waste items for recycling from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 29 at Kaiser High School. No TV sets, alkaline batteries, microwaves or home appliances can be accepted. Call 488-8870.

* DISASTER Hawaii Kai Strong leads a “Get Prepared” disaster readiness meeting at 7 p.m. Dec. 3 at Kamiloiki Elementary cafeteria. The public outreach is designed to help build a more resilient community. Call 395-5406 or email hawaiikaistrong@yahoo.com.

* WHITE CHRISTMAS Diamond Head Theatre presents the musical White Christmas Dec. 5-21. Call 733-0274 or visit diamond-headtheatre.com.

* SEASON’S BEST The Season’s Best Craft & Gift Fair is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 6 at Aliiolani Elementary. Call 683-6064.

* MUTUAL BOOKS Mutual Publishing hosts a Pop-Up Bookstore now through Dec. 20 at 1215 Center St. #210, featuring its bestsellers and specials on new and past titles. Hours are 9 a.m.-4 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. 6, 13 and 20; with free parking at Bank of Hawaii lot. Call 732-1709.

* VEGGIESAuthor Patti Breitman discusses “Never Too Late to Go Vegan: Why and How to Make the Switch for a Better Life” at 7 p.m. Dec. 9 at Ala Wai Clubhouse as part of the Vegetarian Society meeting. The public is welcome. Call 944-8344.

* RED CROSS Hawaii Red Cross has a variety of first aid training in December at its East Oahu headquarters, ranging from pediatric CPR to CPR and AED for professions rescuers, starting Dec. 9. For fees and dates, call 733-2767 or visit red-cross.org. Completion comes with two-year certification.

* MALL MUSIC Kalani High School’s orchestra performs a free concert at 4 p.m Dec. 11 at Kahala Mall. Call 732-7736.

* THRIFT SHOP Holy Trinity Church Thrift Shop is now in a new cottage behind the school and is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday-Saturday. Call 396-0678.

The Hawaii Kai Holiday Parade begins at 10 a.m. Nov. 29 when an estimated 1,300 participants and 30 decorated vehicles will move down Lunalilo Home

Road from Kamiloiki Community Park to Koko Marina Center, which cosponsors the annual march with Hawaii Kai Lions Club.

“Just bringing joy and a little twinkle in the eyes of all who either watch or participate is reason enough to continue this yearly event,” noted parade coordinator Ken Nishibun.

“That is why this parade has become such an anticipated and cherished community tradition, rain or shine, since 1969.”

Although there is no grand marshal this year, the march won’t lack for noise and color, with hundreds of schoolchildren expected, along with scouts, pageant queens, classic cars and a special appearance by the Wyoming All State Marching Band. Numbering 150 musicians, the group represents dozens of communities and 27 high school programs in the Equality State. The band is a veteran of the Tournament of Roses Parade and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Also marching are the Kaiser JROTC Color Guard, Royal Hawaiian Band, Kaiser and Mc-Kinley high school bands and the Celtic Pipes & Drums.

Santa’s elves (disguised as Lions and Kaiser LEO club members) will hand out “thousands of pieces” of candy along the 1.5-mile stretch. Santa, by the way, is Lion Marty Jorgensen, who grows his own beard.

More festivities await at 11 a.m. at Koko Marina Center, with free entertainment, rides, hula, exhibits and keiki activities. Parade fans are invited to bring unwrapped toys for Toys for Tots (or a cash donation) and then keiki can enjoy carnival rides for free. Santa Claus always brings up the tail end of the parade and will make a personal entrance via speedboat to greet keiki and sit for photos in Koko Marina courtyard (around 11:30 a.m).

For more information, call Nishibun at 754-6605.

Motorists, get ready to make way for Santa Claus. The Kaimuki Christmas Parade will begin at 6 p.m. Dec. 4, marching on Waialae Avenue from the Saint Louis School/Chaminade campus to Koko Head Avenue and the municipal parking lot.

About 40 units and 1,500 marchers are expected on the one-mile walk, including area schools, scouts, lawmakers, businesses, fire-fighters, bands and pageant winners. VIP seating will be in front of Kaimuki Plaza at 10th and Waialae. Two makai lanes of Waialae will be closed for marchers, and traffic will be contraflowed on the mauka lanes from Third Avenue to Koko Head Avenue for the one-hour duration of the parade.

Sponsored by Kaimuki Business & Professional Association, the parade is now in its 68th year. It coincides with the official lighting of the town’s Christmas tree on Pu’u O Kaimuki.

For more information, call 739-4801 or email kaimukichristmasparade@gmail.com.

Chaminade’s high-profile schedule has the team ready to face next week’s 2014 Maui Invitational, where it will face three Division I opponents in as many days. Below, MidWeek‘s East Oahu Islander looks at prospects for its 2014-15 basketball season.

At a glance: The ‘Swords return 12 players from last year’s team, which won its first-ever PacWest crown while earning back-to-back NCAA Division II West Regional appearances, also for the first time. Chaminade was 19-13 overall (13-7 in PacWest) in 2013-14.

Starwatch — ‘Swords to keep an eye on: In senior Lee Bailey, the ‘Swords have one of the top DII point guards in the country. He was a First Team All-Conference pick last year and ranked among league leaders in points (17.1 per game) and assists (4.5 per game). A one-time Freshman of the Year, Bailey also was named the PacWest Tournament’s Most Valuable Player last March.

Phoenix-area product James Harper should be ready for a break-out year after coming on late in his sophomore season last March. He started the final 12 games for Chaminade, averaging 7.3 points and 3.1 rebounds per game. A highlight was his 31-point performance in the PacWest championship game versus Dominican, where he connected on 9-of-12 from beyond 3-point range in the ‘Swords’ 99-83 win.

Sophomore Kuany Kuany of Melbourne, Australia, had one of the most impressive debut seasons in the school’s history, posting eight double-doubles in 2013-14, including 32 points in a win over BYUH in the PacWest tourney. He also earned weekly PacWest honors six times, including Freshman of the Week four times.

Can’t-miss game 1: Versus Pittsburgh at 4 p.m. Nov. 24 on ESPNU. This is the ultimate “spotlight game” for the program, as its Maui Invitational first-round game with the Panthers will be in prime time on national TV. Coached by former Hawaii assistant Jamie Dixon, the Panthers ended 2013-14 with a 26-10 record and a fifth-place finish in their inaugural ACC season. They advanced to the third round of the NCAA tournament.

Can’t-miss game 2: Versus California Baptist Jan. 29 at McCabe Gym. Cal Baptist was last year’s pacesetter, eventually earning the No. 1 seed for the PacWest tourney, where it lost to Chaminade in the semifinals.

Can’t-miss game 3: Versus UH Dec. 19 at Blaisdell Arena in exhibition — their first meeting on Oahu since Dec. 16, 1982, when Chaminade scored its only win in the series, 56-47.

Prediction: The ‘Swords will defend their title and make a school-record third straight appearance in the NCAA DII tournament.

You could say that Lisa Tashiro is a lady for all seasons. Long before she captured the Individual state cross-country title recently, Tashiro already was well-known on the Kaiser campus.

“She’s a competitor,” said athletic director Rodney Iwasaki.

Tashiro competes on the Cougar swim team in the winter (and year-round for the Kamehameha Club team) and also is on Kaiser’s track-and-field team in the spring.

Her quick rise in cross country has been the most impressive, however. She never had been a runner before going out for track last spring. “For the first few weeks, I was training with the sprinters,” she recalled. “Then one day I wanted to try running with the distance runners. When I wanted to go back with the sprinters, my coach wouldn’t let me, so I’ve been running the 1,500 and 3,000 (meter runs) ever since.”

Tashiro also claimed the OIA Individual cross-country title Oct. 25 at Central Oahu Regional Park, finishing with a time of 19:31.21 — more than 26 seconds ahead of Radford runner-up Mary Moloney.

Exactly a week later, Tashiro won the Girls Individual title at the state championships at CORP, completing the three-mile course in 18 minutes, 59.90 seconds.

“The last six months have been full of surprises, but I’ve enjoyed it,” she admitted.

Tashiro recently took some time away from swim practice and her studies to visit with MidWeek‘s East Oahu Islander.

What is your earliest sports-related memory?

From grades K to 4, I did hula. From fourth through seventh grade, I did ski jumping in Japan. I wasn’t that good, but it was pretty fun. I really like heights.

Who’s had the biggest impact on your life? My older brother (Kenkoh). He’s a role model to me. He’s always given me good advice, and I try to listen to him as much as possible.

How did you balance running with being a year-round swimmer? I would practice cross country for an hour and 15 minutes, and then I would go to swim practice (with Kamehameha Swim Club).

What’s the most important thing you’ve learned through athletics? To believe in myself and never give up.

What Internet site do you frequent the most? Quizlet. It’s like a flash card that helps you to study and learn about everything.

What is your least favorite household chore? Doing the laundry. By the end of the day, there are piles of dirty clothes.

What movie could you watch over and over? The Parent Trap.

If you were planning a trip, what would be your top destination? Some place where it snows. I like skiing and haven’t for about a year now.

Who are three of your favorite musical artists? Maroon 5, Imagine Dragons and Coldplay.

When you have free time, how do you like to spend it? I like hanging out with my friends. We like to go kayaking, to the beach or to eat.

You’re stuck on Kaho’olawe and can have an endless supply of just one food. What would it be? An acai bowl. I like to make my own.

If you could have your pick, what celebrity would you most like to meet? (Swimmer) Missy Franklin.

jackster.1969@yahoo.com

West Oahu will get an added boost of luxury with the opening of Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina.

Plans to bring the luxury beach resort and private residences to Oahu were confirmed Oct. 25 by The Resort Group, Westbank and Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts.

Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina will be the island’s first Four Seasons Hotel and Resort.

Westbank, Canada’s luxury hotel and residential developer, will take the lead as far as development, and it has assembled an international design team for the project, including James K.M. Cheng Architects, 2013 Pritzker

Architecture Prize winner Toyo Ito, Group 70 International, Philpotts Interiors and SWA Group.

“This is the fulfillment of a long-held dream for Ko Olina,” stated Jeffrey Stone, TRG founder and Ko Olina master developer.

“Four Seasons previously explored bringing its quality, elegance and prestige to Oahu as the company has done so well on Maui, Hawaii island and Lanai. This project will generate substantial, long-term economic benefits to the area for future generations.”

The area’s most recent success comes in the form of Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, which opened in 2011.