Community college students who aspire to digital and creative media careers will have an easier time transitioning their coursework to a four-year institution, thanks to new articulation agreements with UH-West Oahu.

Students from any of the state’s seven community colleges, including Leeward CC, who have completed at least 60 credits of 100/200-level coursework in digital media are eligible to transfer to UHWO, which offers two degree pathways in the program: a Bachelor of Arts in Humanities or a Bachelor of Applied Science, both with concentrations in Creative Media.

UHWO’s program will be served this fall with the grand opening of its dedicated Creative Media lab.

Four new faculty members also have been hired, including an artist-in-residence.

For more information, contact Sharla Hanaoka at 689-2392 or shanaoka@hawaii.edu.

Students can apply for the fall 2014 semester until July 1. Application deadline for the spring 2015 semester is set for Oct. 1.

Ewa Beach Community Based Development Organization has a slew of free July workshops and classes for West Oahuans at its Kamokila Boulevard headquarters with courses that focus on art, food safety and more.

Students in grades 4 to 6 are eligible to join Len Barrow’s introductory, four-week Art Narrative course on art as communication with elements of global design. The class will produce and display work centered on life in Ewa Beach. It starts July 9, meeting at 3:30 p.m. Wednesdays, including a July 20 field trip to Honolulu Museum of Art.

Adults interested in the foodservice industry might consider ServSafe Starters Culinary Training, another four-week course starting July 12. The course emphasizes food safety, personal hygiene, cross-contamination, allergies, time and temperature effects, and sanitation. The 30-hour program, taught by William Castillo, runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays, and attendance at all four classes is mandatory for certification.

Ewa Beach CBDO also offers seminars on college planning (July 8), photography (July 9-30), couponing tips (July 17) and financial foundations (July 15 and 22). Register at ewabeachcbdo.org/event-calendar.

State Rep. Bob McDermott on site during the recent North Road cleanup project. Photo from Rep. McDermott.

McDermott’s Message…Rep. Bob McDermott

As we continue the work of beautifying the Ewa area, I was asked by several community members to clean up some roadside growth. Litter and vegetation had overgrown a portion of North Road, and many folks expressed concern over its unsightly appearance.

The area in need was about 800 yards in length, but both sides of the road needed attention, so that meant the job entailed 1,600 linear yards. A big job — too big for a weekend community cleanup lasting two hours. Generally speaking, this is not something the municipal agencies engage in because of funding restrictions.

What to do? How can we tackle this large job with little or no funding? I pondered this problem and then contacted the state Department of Corrections to inquire if inmates could perform this task. I specified I wanted low-risk offenders, people close to their release date who have exhibited exemplary behavior. Safety of everyone in the community was my top concern. The department responded with precisely what I asked for and in spades. It gave me even more comfort, since the road in question is somewhat remote.

The inmates were polite, respectful, hard-working and eager for a second chance. They went to work with vigor and enthusiasm, cutting the vegetation, raking the green waste and picking up trash with gusto. Supervised by several public safety officers, these men worked very hard. Each day one of the Iroquois Point residents, such as Lt. Col. David Staggs (Ret.), would ensure that the men were fed and had an ample supply of water.

Kurt Fevella and Mitchell Tynanes of Ewa Beach Lions Club helped out by collecting the trash bags and taking the rubbish to the dump. With all of us pitching in and thinking creatively, we have made a significant change to the appearance of the area. Thank you to all those people who had a role in making this happen — there are too many of you to name individually.

Republican state Rep. Bob McDermott represents District 40 (Ewa, Ewa Beach and Iroquois Point).He can be reached at 586-9730 or by email to repmcdermott@capitol.hawaii.gov.

There’s always a season within the season in prep football — critical games that make or break a team.

With the release of the OIA fall slate, MidWeek‘s West Oahu Islander breaks down the schedules for Division I teams Aiea, Campbell, Kapolei and Waipahu. (A story on DII Pearl City will come later.)

Aiea Na Ali’i

2013 record: 2-6 overall, 0-6 in OIA Red West

2014 games: Aug. 15 at Kaiser, Aug. 29 at Kailua, Sept. 6 versus Farrington at Roosevelt High, Sept. 12 Mililani, Sept. 19 at Moanalua, Sept. 27 Campbell, Oct. 4 Kapolei

Key stretch: Moanalua, Campbell, Kapolei

Must-see game 1: Mililani Must-see game 2: Campbell

Upset-alert game: Moanalua Schedule breakdown: Aiea faces true road tests in week one and two against Kaiser and Kailua, respectively. The good news is three of its last four are at home.

Campbell Sabers

2013 record: 9-4 overall, 4-2 in OIA Red

2014 games: Aug. 15 at Castle, Aug. 22 Moanalua, Sept. 5 Kailua, Sept. 12 at

Kapolei, Sept. 19 Mililani, Sept. 27 at Aiea, Oct. 4 versus Farrington at Aloha Stadium

Key stretch: Kapolei, Mililani, Aiea

Must-see game 1: Kapolei Must-see game 2: Farrington

Upset-alert game: Kailua Schedule breakdown: The annual Kapolei clash should figure big in Campbell’s season, as it comes midway and precedes epic matchups with Mililani, Aiea and Farrington in successive weeks.

Kapolei Hurricanes

2013 record: 6-4 overall,

3-3 in OIA Red West

2014 games: Aug. 15 at Kahuku, Aug. 23 versus Farrington at Roosevelt, Aug. 30 Mililani, Sept. 5 Moanalua, Sept. 12 Camp-bell, Sept. 19 Kailua, Oct. 4 at Aiea Key stretch: Kahuku,

Farrington, Mililani

Must-see game 1: Campbell

Must-see game 2: Kahuku Upset-alert game: Kailua Schedule breakdown: Kapolei doesn’t wait long to make a statement, playing Kahuku, Farrington and Mililani out of the gate.

Waipahu Marauders

2013 record: 2-7 overall, 1-5 in OIA Red West

2014 games: Aug. 16 versus Farrington at Aloha Stadium, Aug. 22 at Kahuku, Aug. 29 Castle, Sept. 5 at Kaiser, Sept. 12 Leilehua, Sept. 20 versus McKinley at Roosevelt, Sept. 26 Wai-anae

Key stretch: Farrington, Kahuku, Castle

Must-see game 1: Leilehua

Must-see game 2: Farrington

Upset-alert game: Castle Schedule breakdown: Waipahu’s first month is as difficult as it gets with Farrington, Kahuku, Castle and Kaiser.

jackster.1969@yahoo.com

The Battleship Missouri Memorial will host a “Picnic on the Pier” and fireworks show Friday at Ford Island for the public.

Families can bring their food and picnic gear at 6 p.m. and enjoy games, keiki activities and ship tours until the fireworks begin at 9 p.m. Jason Laeha will provide the live music. Drinks and snacks also will be available.

Tickets cost $10 and $5 (for ages 4-12).

Complimentary shuttle service will be available from Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. For more details, call 1-877-644-4896 or visit ussmissouri.org.

Send West Oahu items to cchang@midweek.com by July 2 to be considered for the July 9 edition.

* BUGS’ LIFE UH entomologist Ryan Caesar discusses insect biology, biodiversity and conservation at 10:30 a.m. June 30 at Kapolei Library. He’ll also share specimens from the UH Insect Museum collection. Call 693-7050.

* MEDIA DEGREE Deadline is July 1 to apply for the fall semester UH West Oahu Creative Media program, which offers multiple pathways to a four-year degree in cooperation with all seven UH community colleges. For more information, call 689-2900.

* AIEA DANCE The Pearlridge chapter of Hawaii Ballroom Dance Association signs up students at 7 p.m. July 1, 8 and 15 at Waimalu Elementary School for lessons in rumba and East Coast swing. Classes begin July 8. Call 456-2129 or 488-3935.

* PAU HANA MUSIC The Llamedo Sisters entertain from 6 to 8 p.m. July 3 at Aiea Bowl and The Alley Restaurant. Call 445-8236.

* ROTARY TALK State Sen. David Ige is guest speaker at Kapolei Rotary Club’s 7:30 a.m. meeting July 3 in the faculty lounge at Kapolei High. Email htnedd@gmail.com.

* COUPONS Maria Olipas shares tips on coupon savings at 1 p.m. July 5 at the Honolulu Star-Advertiser press building, 4545 Kapolei Parkway. Deadline to register is July 3 at 375-6600.

* NISHIHARA HOUR State Sen. Clarence Nishihara hosts his monthly coffee hours at 9 a.m. July 5 at Waimano Home Road McDonald’s in Pearl City and at 9 a.m. July 19 at Waipahu Don Quijote. Call 728-1008.

* KAPOLEI DANCE The Kapolei chapter of Hawaii Ballroom Dance Association registers students at 7 p.m. July 7, 14 and 21 at Makakilo Community Park for classes in waltz and samba that begin July 7. Call 781-2076.

* RAIL UPDATE Kiewit and HART officials brief the public on summer construction plans for rapid transit at 6:30 p.m. July 9 at Waipahu High library. Call 566-2299.

* EWA DANCE Ewa Beach’s chapter of Hawaii Ballroom Dance Association registers students at 6:45 p.m. July 9 and 16 at Asing Community Park for intermediate Bolero and East Coast swing classes. The park is at 94-1450 Renton Road. Call 781-2076.

* NEIGHBORS Ewa Neighborhood Board meets at 7 p.m. July 10 at Ewa Beach Library. Call 768-3710.

* WAIPAHU BON Waipahu Hongwanji’s bon dances start at 7 p.m. July 11-12 at 94-821 Kuhaulua St. with food booths open at 6, and service at 6 p.m. July 12. Call 677-4221.

* GARDEN TIPS Oahu Urban Garden Center presents “Sustainable Gardening: Getting Started” from 9 a.m. to noon July 12, covering container-grown fruit trees and starting a vegetable garden. Call 453-6050.

* BOXING CLINIC USA Boxing has certification clinics for boxing coaches from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. July 12-13 at Pearlside Boxing Gym at 2045 Lauwiliwili St. Call 256-2885.

* SABER PARTY Campbell High’s Class of 1972 has set 60th birthday festivities for Sept. 19-23 in Las Vegas. For reservations, call Vacations Hawaii by July 15. For more details, call Myrna at 265-2412 or email coachabang@earth-link.net.

Ongoing

* CITY MARKETS The People’s Open Market sells produce Tuesdays from 6:30 to 7:30 a.m. at Waiau District Park and 8:15-9:15 a.m. at Waipahu District Park; Fridays 7-8 a.m. at Halawa District Park and 9-10 a.m. at Ewa Beach Community Park; Sundays 7-8:30 a.m. at Kapolei Community Park, 9:30-11 a.m. at Royal Kunia Park-n-Ride and 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at Waikele Community Park. Call 522-7088.

* TOASTMASTERS Pearl City Toastmasters Club meets at 7 p.m. every first and third Tuesday in the Mokihana Room at Pearlridge Gardens & Tower (98-1042 Moanalua Road). Call 780-2066.

If Pearl City defense needs a lobbyist, quarterback Jordan Taamu qualifies.

During his own stellar junior season on offense last fall, Taamu got a closeup look at team defense.

“They made us better by practicing against them every day,” said Taamu. “I think they’re one of the best defenses I’ve faced. Once they picked it up, it pumped up our offense to make a score.”

Taamu and the entire team were right where they wanted to be last October, entering the OIA White title game with wins in seven of the previous eight weeks. A loss to Kaiser undermined momentum, but the team still made the Division II state tourney. Coming up a game short in the OIA title game was a source of motivation in the off-season, Taamu noted.

“This year, we’re looking forward to finishing — we have to finish every game,” he said. “We want to bounce back and come up with the win this year. We’ve been working hard in practice; we’ve had 40 or 50 players every day. We’re already like brothers because of the way we practice.”

For his part, Taamu adapted nicely to Pearl City’s spread offense last fall in his first year as the varsity starter, throwing for 1,649 yards and 11 touchdowns. He also rushed for 173 yards. “The best part is that you can run so many plays,” he said. “I like to stay in the pocket, but if I have to run, I’ll use my feet.”

Pearl City averaged 263 yards of total offense per game in 2013 — 143 passing and 120 on the ground. “I think we’ll be a good passing team,” Taamu said. “We have taller receivers than in the past. Our slotbacks are shorter, but they’re quick, and that should help. Passing league is helping us to learn our reads and to correct our mistakes.”

As a youth, Taamu saw the game from a different perspective on the defensive side of the ball when he was starting safety for Aiea Eagles Pop Warner team. “I was 7 when I started. I was playing defense, but they needed a quarterback. They decided to put me there. That’s when it all started. I really enjoyed it.”

Taamu also played his first three years on Pearl City’s baseball team, but wasn’t part of American Legion League play this summer as his focus is now on football. The Chargers and their fellow OIA White foes officially begin fall camp at the end of the month.

The Chargers have played Campbell, Nanakuli, Pac-Five and Saint Francis in 7-on-7 passing league games to date. At 5 p.m. Wednesday, the team returns to action against Waipahu.

jackster.1969@yahoo.com

The Pearl City office of ALTRES Staffing has added Saturday hours through the end of July to keep up with the demand for construction workers.

“Anyone in the construction industry knows it’s an extremely exciting time for Hawaii,” stated Shani Silva, ALTRES industrial staffing division manager. “We are seeing a significant spike in demand for qualified industrial helpers, (and also) an increase in requests for additional weekend hours by jobseekers.” Clients are seeking help on short-term projects of one day to a few weeks, she noted.

Located in Pearl City Shopping Center, the office is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays, as well as normal weekday hours. For more information, call 456-6699 or visit altres.com.

From now on, guests at Filipino Community Center events will be treated to the cuisine of Creations in Catering.

The catering company announced that it recently signed a partnership agreement with Waipahu’s FilCom Center to become its official catering and special events service provider.

“We are very excited and thrilled to be named the official in-house caterer,” said Mike Rabe, president of Creations in Catering. “We’ve had a great relationship with them for many years, but now as their sole catering and special events provider we are taking everything up a notch. The center’s multiple meeting and function venues allow us to create the ideal setting and perfect menu for each event, no matter the group size.”

FilCom’s interim director Toy Arre couldn’t be more pleased with the arrangement. “(This partnership) ensures quality catering and special event handling for the Waipahu community and especially for West Oahu residents looking for a place to meet or celebrate special occasions,” Arre said. “As an award-winning and locally owned company, Mike Rabe and his team easily anticipate the unique needs and tastes of our multi-cultural guests, and the feedback we receive from the community after an event is always outstanding.”

For details on booking a meeting or special event, call 680-0451.

TV host Guy Fieri (left) and The Alley Restaurant chef/co-owner Glenn Uyeda ham it up at the popular Aiea bowling alley eatery. Photo by Brandon Agtarap.

The “best-ever” oxtail soup Guy Fieri has ever slurped was unveiled recently on his hit TV show Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. Thankfully, that bowl of savory goodness is served, fresh and steamy, for local fans at The Alley Restaurant at Aiea Bowl.

Upcoming airings of Fieri’s “Righteous Bites” episode are July 5, 6, 11 and 14 on the Food Network, where the popular bowling alley eatery shares time with restaurants in Monterey and Los Angeles, Calif.

Aiea Bowl chef and co-owner Glenn Uyeda confirmed that Fieri loves oxtail soup. “One thing about Guy is that he goes all over and eats oxtail,” Uyeda said, noting that Fieri first heard about Aiea Bowl’s oxtail soup from Reno Henriques, who did a show with Fieri. The bleached-blond host even came back twice for more helpings before leaving the Islands.

“His crew told me that he’s never done that,” Uyeda said. “He never comes back to a place to eat, so he must have really liked it. Just last week he called and said, ‘Glenn, can you send me some oxtail soup?’”

The crew from D.D.D. called three months before shooting, so Uyeda and executive chef Shane Masutani went to work on recipes they’d feature on the show. When production started, Uyeda shut down for two days — something he seldom does.

The Alley’s oxtail soup is a creation of Uyeda’s mother, who was reluctant to share her recipe with the nation. “We had to go massage her a little bit,” he admitted. “It’s her own recipe from the past.”

The soup has been a big hit, and the establishment now goes through about 400 pounds of oxtail a day. “Since the show aired, we’ve experienced a growth in business. We’ve grown about 25 percent in oxtail soup sales. We can’t keep up with it — we’ve run out two times already.”

Also featured on “Righteous Bites” was The Alley’s BBQ Coca-Cola Turkey Sandwich, which has enjoyed a 200 percent increase in sales since the show first aired. “It (turkey) is marinated in Coca-Cola, ginger, garlic and soy sauce,” Uyeda revealed. “It turns the meat into a texture of steak.” Patrons can order the turkey in the sandwich, in a salad or even solo.

Uyeda bought the space and opened The Alley and Aiea Bowl with his brother, Dr. Gregg Uyeda, and sister Stacy Vanderbeck.

“At the beginning, I had to throw oxtail soup away,” he lamented. “We didn’t sell enough, but we’re so happy now that it’s grown.” Those who are ono for a bowl can stop by the restaurant, particularly during the new Thursday Pau Hana, which comes with live music. In the lineup from 6 to 8 p.m. are The Llamedo Sisters July 3, Cool Aina July 10, Aka Vibes July 17, Virgin Mary July 24 and Randy Allen July 31. For reservations, call 445-8236.

State lawmakers took a crucial step recently to protect our island state and address climate change in Hawaii.

Signed into law by the governor, House Bill 1714 establishes an interagency climate adapation committee under the state Department of Land and Natural Resources. The committee will develop a report on sea level rise impacts statewide to 2050.

Among those working to ensure it became a law this year was Majority Policy Leader and Waipahu Rep. Henry Aquino. “I applaud my colleagues and the governor for making it a priority to tackle the consequences of climate change on our islands,” Aquino said. “We have seen rising sea levels, erosion of our shoreline and various other effects of global warming on the increase in the last year.

“The Hawaii Climate Adaptation Initiative will help protect our economy and way of life for our next generation.”

House Bill 1714 was part of the 2014 Joint Majority Legislative Package, included because of its statewide importance and commitment of majorities of both legislative chambers.

Palisades Elementary School earned this $10,000 check from Hawaiian Electric Co. for success in conserving energy and winning first place in the Home Energy Challenge. Pictured (from left) are HECO education and consumer affairs director Ka’iulani de Silva, state Sen. Clarence Nishihara, students Alana Ho and Jerome Nozawa, HECO community affairs consultant Sam Nichols, student Taiyo Watt, Palisades parent-community networking coordinator Desiree Yamanouchi, student Preston Spragling, Palisades principal Gavin Tsue, state Rep. Gregg Takayama and HECO government and community affairs vice president Darcy Endo-Omoto. Photo courtesy Hawaiian Electric Co.

Palisades Elementary School now has an extra $10,000, thanks to its students’ dedication to conserving energy.

The Pearl City school took first place in this year’s Home Energy Challenge, which was sponsored by Hawaiian Electric Co.

The contest ran from October 2013 through March 2014, in which time the children slashed energy use in their daily lives. In the process, they learned where electricity comes, how it’s distributed and ways to minimize personal usage.

“Hawaiian Electric continues to partner with the DOE on the Home Energy Challenge because it’s important to teach our young energy users to conserve, to not waste,” explained HECO community affairs consultant Sam Nichols, who manages the campaign. “Our clean energy future depends on not just renewable energy and energy efficiency, but the foundation: conservation.”

Here are some of the winning strategies voiced by the young waste-cutters of Palisades Elementary School:

“I took short showers, turned off lights when done, and used light from the windows,” declared first-grader Alana Ho. “We turned off fans and opened windows, and filled up the clothes washer.”

“I take fast showers, turn off lights before I leave rooms, and I help my tutu hang clothes on the line to save energy,” said first-grader Jerome Nozawa.

“We’re not using air conditioning, but letting air flow through the house. We get a lot of air through because there are lots of windows,” explained sixth-grader Preston Spragling.

Palisades Elementary School has not yet decided just how to spend its prize money, but principal Gavin Tsue said she’s considering applying it to an educational energy-conservation project for the students.

For their conservation efforts, Nuuanu Elementary took second place, and Kuhio Elementary placed third. They won $6,000 and $3,000, respectively.

Kapolei Shopping Center will sponsor its first-ever outdoor concert, Ukulele Jam 2014, from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Saturday on the lawn adjacent to Safeway.

The free show features ukulele virtuosos and vocalists Kuana Torres Kahele, Kamakakehau Fernandez, and Heart & Soul, who are regulars at Disney Aulani Resort & Spa.

Prize drawings include a soprano ukulele from KoAloha, autographed CDs and Safeway gift cards, among other items. A special promotion also promises $5 Safeway gift cards to anyone who brings in their KSC Loyalty Card plus $50 of same-day receipts from KSC vendors.

The U.S. Army seeks public comment through Aug. 13 on an archaeological subsurface survey it completed two years ago at Makua Military Reservation.

It also will conduct a public meeting on the Leeward Coast (yet to be determined) during the 60-day public comment period for those who would like to testify in person.

Residents may read the survey report at the Kapolei, Waianae, Wahiawa and Waialua libraries or download the report at garrison.hawaii.army.mil/ma kua. In consideration of the environment, hard copies of the plan are available only upon request.

Email comments to usaghi.pao.comrel@us.army.mil or mail to U.S. Army Garrison-Hawaii, Environmental Division, Attn: Makua Archaeological Subsurface Survey Public Comments, 948 Santos Dumont Ave., Schofield Barracks, HI 96857.

For more information, call 656-3089.

UHWO graduate Momi Robins-Makaila knows books’ healing powers. Photo from Momi Robins-Makaila.

Momi Robins-Makaila’s first book, Candy Canes and Coke, outlined her journey from her son’s drug addiction and living in an abusive relationship to personal freedom and happiness. When she finished it, the Kapolei resident recalled feeling that something was missing from the book.

“It started the healing process, but that wasn’t the answer,” said Robins-Makaila, who graduated from University of Hawaii at West Oahu.

Soon after completing her book, she attended her 20-year high school reunion, where she met Tad Keola Makaila, a former classmate who later became her husband.

The two married and moved to Arizona, where she began writing her second book, Rescued By A God I Didn’t Know, which continues her voyage through past hardships. (It’s available on Amazon for $6.99 Kindle or $11.41 paperback.)

“The mantra of the book is that when we embrace our struggles with honesty and without fear, we can transform into better versions of ourselves every day.”

The book is a story of how she believes that God made her stronger through struggles and tribulations.

“Each chapter that I wrote describes a way that I’ve come to know God and build a relationship with Him,” Robins-Makaila said. “If you look at my life now and what it was three-and-a-half years ago, you wouldn’t believe it’s the same person. I’m a better woman, a better mother and a better wife, and I’m understanding every day what my role is here on earth.”

She hopes that her journey will help others to know that there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

Also in the works is a magazine for Waianae, slated to hit the coast in August or September. Na Pua O Wai’anae is meant to celebrate things happening in the community.

“Other people need to know that we’re not what the stereotype is,” explained Robins-Makaila, who was born and raised in Waianae.

Before moving to Arizona, she also taught math for 10 years at Waianae Intermediate, and she’s excited to resume teaching there again soon.

“I’m also a motivational speaker,” she added. “I like to speak about education and relationships and spirituality.”

It has been a tough journey, but Robins-Makaila wouldn’t trade her experiences for anything. “I know I’m not perfect, and I know I make mistakes every day. I don’t have to be ashamed of who I am and the mistakes I make.”

For more details, visit momirobinsmakaila.org.

A microchip in a furry friend can save time, money and possibly even lives, if a pet gets separated from its owner.

That’s why West Oahu veterinarians, in partnership with Hawaiian Humane Society, are offering a reduced-cost $10 microchip implant to all cat and dog owners through July 31.

Every animal receives a unique microchip number that is registered in an Oahu database, enabling organizations like HHS to easily identify lost animals.

The microchip is the size of a grain of rice and is implanted beneath the skin between a cat or dog’s shoulder blades.

Participating West Oahu clinics are Animal House Vet Center (689-1797), Kapolei Pet Hospital (462-8040), Newtown Veterinary Clinic (488-3667) and Waipahu Waikele Pet Hospital (671-7387). Pet owners should schedule an appointment before bringing their pet in.

For more information, visit hawaiianhumane.org/microchip-madness.html.

Kumu Kahua Theatre and UH Manoa’s Theatre and Dance department have selected two playwrights with West Oahu ties as winners of the 2014 Playwriting Contest.

Aiea-born Susan Soon He Stanton won the Hawaii Prize and $600 for her play Seek. The category requires that the play take place in or be related to Hawaii. Stanton previously won in the same category for Whatever Happened to John Boy Kihano? in 2006.

Kemuel DeMoville of Ewa Beach won the Resident Prize and $250 for Deaf in One Ear. The category is exclusive to current Hawaii residents. DeMoville also is a veteran of the contest, having won previously for Cane Fields Burning, which premiered at Kumu Kahua in 2011. He’s currently theater manager at Leeward Community College.

Playwrights submitted their entries under pseudonyms for anonymity and were evaluated by three judges selected by Kumu Kahua.

Send West Oahu items to cchang@midweek.com by July 9 to be considered for the July 16 edition.

* SCHOOL SUPPLIES From July 7 to 11, Prudential Locations Oahu welcomes donates of school supplies at its offices, including its Pearlridge Center office and kiosk for its annual “Back-pack to School” drive. Call 488-7700.

* KAPOLEI DANCE Kapolei chapter of Hawaii Ballroom Dance Association registers students at 7 p.m. July 7, 14 and 21 at Makakilo Community Park for classes in waltz and samba that begin July 7. Call 781-2076.

* AIEA DANCE Pearl-ridge chapter of Hawaii Ballroom Dance Association signs up students at 7 p.m. July 8 and 15 at Waimalu Elementary School for lessons in rumba and East Coast swing. Classes begin July 8. Call 456-2129 or 488-3935.

* RAIL UPDATE Kiewit and HART officials brief the public on summer construction plans for rapid transit at 6:30 p.m. July 9 at Waipahu High library. Call 566-2299.

* EWA DANCE Ewa Beach’s chapter of Hawaii Ballroom Dance Association registers students at 6:45 p.m. July 9 and 16 at Asing Community Park for intermediate Bolero and East Coast Swing classes. The park is at 94-1450 Renton Road. Call 781-2076.

* PAU HANA MUSIC Cool Aina entertains for pau hana from 6 to 8 p.m. July 10 at Aiea Bowl and The Alley Restaurant. Call 445-8236.

* NEIGHBORS Ewa Neighborhood Board meets at 7 p.m. July 10 at Ewa Beach Library. Call 768-3710.

* TV EATS Food Network’s Diners, Drive-ins and Dives features The Alley Restaurant at Aiea Bowl in its July 11 episode on “Righteous Bites.”

* WAIPAHU BON Waipahu Hongwanji has its bon dances at 7 p.m. July 11 and 12 at 94-821 Kuhaulua St. with food booths opening at 6 both nights, and service at 6 p.m. July 12. Call 677-4221.

* BOOKS Kapolei Library concludes its adult summer speaker series at 1 p.m. July 12 with a talk by author Nancy Reynolds on the attraction of young adult books. Call 693-7050.

* GARDEN TIPS Oahu Urban Garden Center’s second Saturday program is “Sustainable Gardening: Getting Started” from 9 a.m. to noon July 12, featuring container-grown fruit trees and starting a vegetable garden. Call 453-6050.

* HULA HELP Kumu hula Mae Kamamalu Klein and Halau ‘O Kaululaua’e perform at a breakfast benefit and bake sale from 9 to 11 a.m. July 12 at Kapolei High cafeteria. Meal donation is $8 and proceeds support the troupe’s participation in Queen Lili’uo-kalani Keiki Hula Competition July 17-19 at Blaisdell Arena. Call 551-5702.

* BOXING USA Boxing conducts certified training for boxing coaches and officials from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. July 12 and 13 at Pearlside Boxing Gym in Kalaeloa, 2045 Lauwili-wili St. Call Eiichi Jumawan at 256-2885.

* BLOOD DRIVES Hawaii Blood Bank has donor drives from 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. July 12 at Kapolei Shopping Center, and 7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. July 13 at Podium Raceway on Lexington Street in Kalaeloa. Call 848-4770.

* PEARL CITY BON Rissho Kosei-kai Buddhist Church of Hawaii presents its bon dances and plenty of food from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. July 18-19 at 2289 Auhuhu St. in Pearl City. Call 455-3212.

* ARCHERY BENEFIT Pu’u Kapolei Archery Range on Fort Barrette Road plans a Peter Akau Memorial Shoot from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 19 to benefit Hawaii Foodbank. Visit bushwackersarcheryclub.org.

* YOUTH FOOTBALL KapCity Hurricanes register players for youth flag and tackle football now through Aug. 31 for the fall season (September-November). Area practices are held from 4 to 6:30 p.m. week-days. Call 393-5844 or visit facebook.com/usoathletics.

* CAMPBELL ’72 Campbell High School’s Class of 1972 throws its 60th birthday party Sept. 19-23 in Las Vegas. To make arrangements, call Vacations Hawaii by July 15. For more details, call Myrna at 265-2412 or email coachabang@earthlink.net.

* METH ART Kapolei Hale Courtyard displays original works by Hawaii teens in the exhibit, “Not Even Once … Take a stand against METH,” now through July 17. Call 922-5331.

Ongoing

* WAIPAHU ZUMBA Zumba classes with Sexy Crew are back each Thursday at 6:30 p.m at United Visayan Community Hall, 94-833 Awanei St. in Waipahu. Drop-in fee is $5. Call 393-8073.

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

* HABITAT HELP Habitat for Humanity Leeward Oahu seeks volunteers to help with its mission of self-built housing for low-income families in Kapolei, Ewa Beach and Waianae. Call Toni Anduha at 696-7882.

* VEGGIE COOKS Down to Earth runs free vegetarian cooking classes at 4 p.m. on the first Wednesday at its Kapolei store. Call 947-3249.

* KEIKI COUNCIL The Central District South Community Children’s Council meets at 6 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday in Moanalua High Room G104; and the Leeward council meets at 6:30 p.m. on the first Wednesday at the State of Hawaii building, 601 Kamokila Blvd. in Kapolei All parents of children with special needs are welcome. Call 586-5363.

Sharing Notes …Sen. Michelle Kidani

Enriching our cultural heritage

Hawaii’s rich Asia/Pacific ethnic diversity is something that makes our state unique among others in the U.S., and on any given weekend, we are likely to find some kind of event to celebrate and rediscover our multi-cultural heritage.

Such an event took place over the Fourth of July weekend when nearly 200 golfers teed off in the 62nd annual two-day Fil-Am Golf Tournament at Hawaii Prince Golf Course.

Since the early 1950s — well before Hawaii became a state — this tournament has maintained its mission of nurturing pride among Filipino-Americans through the game of golf. The event regularly moves from island to island in a concerted effort to involve as many players as possible from the nine Fil-Am Golf Clubs statewide.

It was my pleasure to join the golfers at the tournament’s opening luncheon and then to help present koa bowl trophies to top players at a Sunday evening banquet.

At the luncheon, my congratulatory certificate from the State Senate noted that July 4 also has special significance in the Philippines, with which so many in Hawaii’s Fil-Am community still maintain strong family connections. In those islands across the Pacific, that day is observed as Philippine-American Friendship Day. And so the annual tournament offers an opportunity not only for leisurely and friendly competition, but also for collective reflection on the freedoms we all enjoy.

Congratulations to Rito Saniatan, this year’s tournament chairman, and his team for organizing a wonderful holiday weekend event.

Kamehameha Highway roadwork underway — at last!

Late last month, we marked the official beginning of the long-awaited resurfacing project along Kamehameha Highway between Ka Uka Boulevard at Waipio and Waihau Street just beyond Mililani.

That’s a portion of the roadway just longer than four miles, but it is so heavily used by motorists traveling both directions that the highway really had deteriorated badly. In fact, the existing roadway was last fully resurfaced in 1991!

In addition to resurfacing and reconstruction, the project will include guardrail safety improvements, traffic signal safety and utility modifications, pedestrian safety improvements, landscaping and new signage.

State funds for the improvements that will be done during the next several months was approved way back in 2011, and delays in implementing these kinds of repairs and maintenance projects were a concern that we expressed to the Department of Transportation during the Legislative session.

Naturally there will be delays and detours along the highway as work progresses, and in the final phase later this year, Kipapa Bridge will be totally closed to motorists for a few weeks — except for “local” traffic.

You can track progress on this work online through the remainder of the year at the State’s highway project website: hidot.hawaii.gov/highways. That’s where you can also find information about the major upgrades to H-1 that aim to improve traffic flow and vehicle safety all the way from town to Waipahu.

State Sen. Michelle Kidani represents district 18, which includes portions of Waipio Gentry, Waikele, Village Park and Royal Kunia. Contact her at the State Capitol, room 228, 586-7100, or email: SenKidani@Capitol.Haw aii.gov or visit capitol.hawaii.gov.

A rendering of Ka Makana Alii, which will break ground later this year in Kapolei. Photo courtesy of DeBartolo Development.

Macy’s recently signed on as an anchor tenant for Ka Makana Alii, a Kapolei shopping hub that is scheduled to break ground later this year. The store will occupy 103,000 square feet at the center.

“Ka Makana Alii will be the shopping, dining and entertainment destination for West Oahu, and having Macy’s as our anchor tenant, with its proud heritage in the Islands, will be a great benefit for this growing region,” stated Edward Kobel, president and COO of DeBartolo Development. He noted that demand for space has been brisk, with more than 80 percent either leased or in active negotiations. “We are confident that the addition of Macy’s will only heighten interest from local and national retailers.”

“West Oahu is a vibrant marketplace for residents, tourists and military families, and Macy’s will be the first fashion department store in this area,” added Peter Sachse, Macy’s chief stores officer. (Pearlridge Center also has a Macy’s store.) “It will be a great place for us to serve customers with a tailored merchandise assortment and shopping experience that meets the needs of Hawaii’s residents and visitors. We look forward to being part of this very special community.”

Ka Makana Alii will go up on 67 acres of land between the Kapolei and Kualakai parkways. The land is owned by the state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands, which is leasing it to DeBartolo. The lease income will support needs of Native Hawaiian communities.

The center will have more than 100 stores, restaurants and entertainment venues when completed, as well as two hotels and office space.

DeBartolo Development recently awarded a contract to JLL Retail to manage the property, and the center is expected to open in 2016. For updates, visit kamakanaalii.com.