KIHEI

St. Theresa Parish

The parish threw a surprise birthday brunch on Feb. 4 for Sister Candelaria Pinaula, left. “Sister Candie” has been the pastoral associate and director of religious education here since August and has been very busy working with children and adults. She is pictured with her assistant Julie Mathis. Sister was caught off guard as she entered the hall to shouts of “Surprise!” and much laughter. The menu included Eggs Benedict, roasted potatoes, an abundant fruit salad and more. Dessert was not one, but two birthday cakes — one for chocolate lovers and the other made completely of cupcakes. Sister Candie then opened presents including gift certificates, candles and more of her favorite things. The brunch was also a welcome event. The parishioners are very happy to have her. (Reported by Anita Carrington)

HAWI

Sacred Heart Parish

The religious education teachers and helpers held a Valentine’s Day Pancake Breakfast on the Sunday before Valentine. They were up and ready at 5 a.m. preparing the eggs, pancakes and sausages. They will attend the 25th anniversary of H.I.M. (Hawaiian Island Ministries) on Oahu. Pictured are Manu Salvador, Deacon Tom, Emma Faisca, Evie Adams, TJ Giel, (one of our youths), Rita Maria, Randy Furukado, Mary Lou Ignacio, Dawn Valenzuela and Lawrence Pasco … Condolences to the families of the late Dorothy Shim, Severina Ventura and Albert Reyes! (Reported by Lee Rivera)

PAHOA

Sacred Heart Parish

Many have passed through our historic town of Pahoa and are amazed how it seems to be locked in the past. Tourists like the wonderful old structures. But visitors stopping by our church have not been able to take pictures inside because the doors were locked (unlike the good old days). A solution occurred to our pastor Father Edgardo Bonghanoy when talking with our physical environment committee. He suggested installing tempered glass in the front doors so that any time of day or night, anyone would be able to view our wonderful sanctuary and its majestic crucifix. It was agreed. The shape of the glass would match our beautiful stained windows, always a beauty to behold. The church has changed several times since it was built. The current structure is the second permanent structure, built in 1929 by Father Evarist Gielen. Special care is always taken to preserve the historic value of the structure, so the old doors were modified. Interior lighting will be installed so that this vision can be enjoyed in the evening. Now when visitors stop by, they can sit in our portico in prayer with a view of the tabernacle. Whenever you visit our historic town of Pahoa, please remember to stop by and enjoy the beauty that I speak of. It is a vision that will always be remembered. (Reported By Steve Torres)

KAHULUI

Christ the King Parish

Parishioners journeyed with God on our Feb. 18-20 parish mission led by guest speaker Jesuit Father Philip Chircop, who opened our eyes and hearts to the teaching of the Gospel. If we stand on the foundation with the Lord, we will be able to accomplish what needs to be done. “With God all things are possible.” … On Feb. 23 at 7 p.m. in the church, Father Andre “Pat” Patenaude, the singing La Salette priest, gave a concert of songs and praise. The mission statement “Make It Known” inspired everyone deeply. Thank you to both Father Philip and Father Pat for your inspirational guidance enriching all our lives. Pictured is Father Pat. (Reported by Carol Ursua and Jasmine Higa)

KAPAA

St. Catherine Parish

Our newly born youth ministry is growing in leaps and bounds. Each Sunday, 5 p.m. Mass is ministered by members of our parish youth and confirmation programs. So much so that on April 6, our parish will host an island-wide youth Mass and potluck. All Kauai parishes will be invited. … Also in the news, our parish’s food pantry is still accepting non-perishable food items that can be dropped off at the church office. The food is given to parishioners and families immediately surrounding parish properties and the homeless. Gifts certificates are also welcomed. (Reported by Carmen Nakasone)

LANAI CITY

 Sacred Hearts Parish

Our parish mission on Feb. 24 and 25 was a time of reflection, prayer, penance and reconciliation with God. To guide us in this path was Father Andre Patenaude, better known as Father Pat, who mesmerized us with his beautiful singing voice which had some of us in tears. As Father said, it was “chicken skin!” He told us that life will have ups and downs and, like the sea, can be rough, but the Lord is our “anchor” and will always be there to make the ride a lot smoother and calmer. On both nights, confessions were heard by Father Pat, Father Ferdinand and visiting priest Father Efren Tomas from Christ the King Parish, Kahului. … Our teenagers and second graders from religious education are busy preparing for confirmation and First Holy Communion. Both will be held in May. (Reported by Eleanor Ozoa)

WAILUKU

St. Anthony of Padua Parish

Our youth group is organizing a Walk for Christ dramatizing the Stations of the Cross for after the 9 a.m. Mass on March 16 from Wailuku to St. Ann Church in Waihee. Participants on this 4-mile trek are soliciting pledges to raise funds for upcoming projects. Viewers along the route are invited to join them and to share a after-walk potluck at St. Ann’s. Adult organizers are Chiree Souza, Serena Souza and Lori Cabacungan. For information, call Chiree at 242-6040. … Volunteers willing to wrap laulaus with Joseph Cardoza for the school’s Fund Daze Bazaar are asked to report to the school cafeteria on March 13 at 5 p.m. (Reported by Miriam Kahalekai)

MAKAWAO

St. Joseph Parish

Father Richard (Pat) Landry will be returning to Maui to present a Lenten Mission, March 10-11. The theme will be Reconciliation (with God, self, others and earth). Both days will have a 6-7:30 p.m. conference, followed by Confession on March 10 and Mass on March 11. (Reported by Donna Pico)

PALAMA

Co-Cathedral of St. Theresa

S.T.Y.L.E. (St. Theresa’s Youth Life Experience), the parish youth ministry group, presented the Living Stations of the Cross at the total parish catechesis general assembly Feb. 24 at the parish hall. Narration, song and movement were incorporated in portraying the last moments of Christ’s life. A major presentation will be shown to the parish community on Friday, March 14 at 6:30 p.m. in the church. Pictured in the front row, from left, are Cydrienne Llamas, Sherry Ibarra, Janelle Sambueno, Ressiel Farro and Alexis Hazelwood. In back are Amelia Caballero, Tyler Mangine, Matthew Fernandez, Ernest Raquel, Russel Madriaga, Johnedel Barba, Alexis Castro, Kathleen De Lara and Chelsie Daoang. (Reported by Venny Villapando)

PEARL CITY

Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish

The Stations of the Cross is reverently prayed on Friday evenings during Lent. Parish organizations and ministries, altar servers and musicians volunteer to lead the assembly. Groups that have signed up are the Blessed Mother’s Prayer Group, Xavier Club, Filipino Catholic Club, Neocatechumenal Way, Knights of Columbus, lectors and youth. We are reminded of Father Patrick Peyton’s words: “The family (parish) that prays together stays together.” (Reported by Elaine Yamashita)

WAHIAWA

Our Lady of Sorrows Parish

Because of the initiative of Christine Hamada, our parish recently established a grief-sharing group. When Christine’s husband passed away suddenly, she found no local Catholic group to assist her with overcoming her grief and sought help from a group at a local Christian church. Her experience, and the fact that Our Lady of Sorrows has many older parishioners and averages over one funeral each week, prompted her to lead an effort to found a grief-sharing group at the church. With the aid of the diocese’s Office of Social Ministry and other parishioners, the grief-sharing group has become a reality. The group meets each Wednesday at 9 a.m. in the school library. It offers understanding, support, and encouragement from people who have gone through the same grieving experience. Pictured at a recent meeting, from left, are Lurline Lee, Rosalie Cameros, Pat Cameros, facilitator Lani Varde and facilitator Christine Hamada. (Reported by Jack Kampfer)

WAIPIO GENTRY

Resurrection of the Lord Parish

Do you ever wonder how the church stays sparkling clean every time you come to attend Mass? The bathroom smells fresh like spring breeze. The windows are always spotless. The floors are swept from corner to corner. The lanai areas are swept and void of unsightly rubbish. The trash cans are emptied promptly. We don’t have professional cleaners. Even better, we have dedicated parish volunteers who willingly come forward quietly to do just that for you. Confirmation I and II youths, their parents and sponsors were spotted working hard doing the job that many would rather not do on an early Saturday morning of Feb. 23. They happily spend every Saturday working hard during Lenten Season. Mahalo for a job well-done. Pictured is Nemesio Ramos, father of Dulce Ramos of Confirmation I, cleaning a stained glass window. (Reported by Nobuko Fushimi)

WAIANAE

Sacred Heart Parish

On Feb. 13, parishioners and friends came together to help Father Sebastian Chacko celebrate his 60th birthday. The delighted Father Sebastian didn’t have a clue about the surprise party. (Reported by Linda Jose)

PAUOA VALLEY

Blessed Sacrament Parish

Students, parents and catechists visited Hale Ho Aloha offering smiles and handmade valentine cards. The children greeted the residents with loving songs. In return, they received happy smiles and clapping to the familiar favorite, “You are my Sunshine”. They met one gentleman who was happy to share his beautiful Hawaiian name Oluhaakekulanaohalemano which means kind, humble, the prominent, distinguished soldier. It was a unique and profound encounter. A genuine smile and conversation captured the experience of God’s love. Visiting the sick is a calling much needed in our world — a priceless gift of time and love. Pictured in the back row, from left, are volunteer mom Colleen with her two children Travis and Trisha Toguchi, Joyce and Selena Fonoti, Ruta Fonoti, Hunter and Lance Leaeno and John V.O. Britos. (Reported by Lei Kondo)

TOPSIDE

Molokai Catholic Community

Our Mardi Gras was celebrated Feb. 2, just before this year’s very early Ash Wednesday at St. Sophia Church. A goodly crowd enjoyed the music of Henry Tancayo, Norman DeCosta and from the audience, Pearl Souza and Larry Helm. The well-known musical talent Lono made a surprise appearance. This event is a vital source of income for parish operational expenses, maintenance and religious life. Success is possible because of the hard work and generosity of many, including chairperson Leoda Shizuma, Ida Reyes, Debbie Nae‘ole, David Nanod, Rubin Sambajon, Phillip Kikukawa, Yolanda Reyes, Pat Tancayo, Joan Lasua, and Father Clyde Guerreiro. Eight year old McKenzie Nerveza won the first place in the lucky number drawing. Also lucky were Jeanette Akiona, Dan Aquino, Ray Miller and Magdelina Romero. Activities included an innovative Chinese auction, a white elephant sale coordinated by the youth ministry, and many delicious foods — Chinese plate lunch, pancit, desserts, baked goods, fresh coconut, malasadas and, in the parish pantry, jams, jellies and other “goodies.” (Reported by Cecily Kikukawa and Jersula Manaba)

KALIHI VALLEY

Our Lady of the Mount

All religious education students, pre-K to Confirmation II, did the Stations of the Cross on Feb. 24 in the church. Each class was assigned one or two Stations. Catechist Angie Goodbody did the gestures to “Were You There” and the students followed. We sang a verse at the end of every Station. The church was quiet for the whole half hour and the children focused on the Way of the Cross. It was moving and enriching to watch the children pray. (Reported by Lucy Poueu)

KULIOUOU

 Holy Trinity Parish

Congratulations to the children participating in our First Sacraments program. Last weekend over 30 children received the Sacrament of Reconciliation for the first time. Earlier in the day they participated in a retreat with their parents. They also shared a family lunch. These children receive the Eucharist for the first time at the end of May. Congratulations to Carrie, the parents and volunteers who worked hard on this special day. (From the parish bulletin)

HONOLULU

Cathedral of Our Lady of Peace

On Feb. 23, the cathedral’s Marshallese Community began preparing six families for infant Baptism in April. Our coordinator, Veronica Kiluwe, a prayer leader from Assumption Parish in Majuro, conducted the preparation class in Marshallese in the new parish hall. The final class will include a presentation by the cathedral pastoral associate. | (Reported by Ann Hannan)

ALA MOANA

Sts. Peter and Paul Parish

Our parish celebrated a Lenten Taize prayer service on March 2 at 7 p.m. following the 6 p.m. Mass. Your Faith Has Saved You is an hour-long program in preparation for Easter. We gathered in a darkened church lit with many candles to sing beautiful meditative songs, listen to Scripture passages, and sing more beautiful songs. At the end of the service, all were invited to pray at the cross, which was laid out horizontally. (Reported by the parish)

NUUANU

St. Stephen Parish

Under the leadership of Father Khanh Pham Nguyen and his spirituality team, St. Stephen and Blessed Sacrament Churches sponsored a Lenten Parish Mission, Feb. 18-21, here, conducted by well known retreat master, spiritual director and pastoral counselor Marianist Father Kenneth Templin. The theme was “Encountering the Living Christ.” Participants were urged to “change the heart not the garments.” Describing the image of the cross, Father Kenneth said the vertical beam was our intellectual knowledge while the horizontal is the people-to-people relationships through which we encounter Christ’s love. We are called to live the complete cross. A reconciliation evening followed the first two days and a Mass was celebrated on the final day, followed by a potluck. Parishioners of both parishes brought a variety of food over the four days. All enjoyed the mission and found many “encountering moments” in the “ohana” of each evening. Pictured, from left, are Vickie Solidum, Father Templin, Sue Jones, Father Nguyen and Leimomi Kondo. (Reported by Lei Kondo)

AIEA

St. Elizabeth Parish

So, how long you been waiting for the Bus? … Sorry, folks, only the Divine Mercy Bus stops here. The RCIA Lenten retreat at St. Stephen Diocesan Center on Feb. 23 brought together 38 elect, candidates, sponsors and core team members for a day of remembering the journey and sharing the vision for the future as fully-initiated members of the Catholic Church. The focus was the Gospel of John, recalling the image of the vineyard, vine and branches. We shared our thoughts about how to become and remain fruitful branches — and oh, that promise of loving pruning! All are excitedly anticipating the Easter Vigil and the journey beyond. (Reported by Linda Cacpal, photo by Ed Taguba)

WAIALUA

St. Michael Parish

Pray for the deployed military personnel: Christopher Bolwell, Derrick Branson, Robert Lowers, Eric Powell, Troy Sabanal, Dominic Amantiad, Aric Andrade and Christopher Calio. Please continue to pray for all our military and their families and help us be current in our listing by letting us know when they return. (Reported by the parish)

KANEOHE

St. Ann Parish

On Feb. 16, over 50 youth from our parish received their First Reconciliation. The morning began with an opening prayer service followed with the children and teens celebrating the sacrament of Reconciliation. On hand to celebrate were provincial of the Sacred Hearts, Father Chris Keahi, pastor Father Herman Gomes and associate pastor Father Benny Kosasih. Our parents, catechists and aides did a fine job preparing the youth. Pictured is an animated Father Keahi with one of the children who received first Reconciliation. (Reported by Kuulei Halemano)

ENCHANTED LAKE

St. John Vianney Parish

The parish will celebrate the Anointing of the Sick March 9 at 11 a.m. Mass. Who may receive this sacrament? Any baptized Catholic who has sufficient use of reason to be strengthened by this sacrament and who is suffering from a serious illness, is facing serious surgery, or whose health is impaired by advanced age. (From the parish bulletin)

HILO

St. Joseph Early Learning Center

Three year-old Joshua Moses fingerpaints his “sky” while learning about weather from pre-school teacher Nani Early. (Reported by Rowena Austria)

HILO

St. Joseph Elementary School

The sixth graders went on a recent overnight science field trip to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. They toured several sites including the southwest rift zone, Halemaumau Crater, sulfur banks, and steam vents. They experienced hiking the Devastation Trail (a rainforest trail) where they learned about nature, birds’ molds and a lot about each other. They also hiked a desert trail to the Jaggar Museum and learned how different the trails are from each other. Accompanying the students were science teacher Marion Buscher and staff member Danie Villena, and parents Jason Shinoda, Saeko Hayashi, Yoko Hayano, Michael Silva and Lucille Melemai. Pictured is Benjamin Uhlmann looking through a telescope at Halemaumau crater. (Reported by Rowena Austria)

HILO

St. Joseph Jr./Sr. High School

Every year across the state, high school students put on suits and ties, shine their shoes, and read and re-read legal depositions and fact patterns. They practice their speech, their poise, and their responses to critical cross examination. They are the lawyers and witnesses in mock trials between the litigation teams of competing schools. This year, St. Joseph fielded three teams: A, B and C. After five days of intense competition, St. Joseph’s “A Team” was crowned the 2008 Mock Trial Regional Champions with a nine-point upset against former champs Hilo High, who took second. Tied for third were the St. Joseph C Team and Connections Charter School. Tied in last place were Kohala High and St. Joseph B Team. “The intensity of competition is unbelievable,” says St. Joseph coach and former attorney Nathan L. Yocum. “These student litigators are more skilled than a lot of the actual litigators I knew in practice.” The A Team will go against four other championship teams in the March 8 state competition on Oahu. Pictured are members of the teams A, B, and C. (Reported by Rowena Austria)

LAHAINA

Sacred Hearts School

Our school is preparing for its 36th Annual Bazaar, March 7 and 8, from 4 to 10 p.m. (Reported by Paula Pope)

KAPAA

St. Catherine School

The students kicked off our annual Muscular Dystrophy fundraising campaign with a visit from the MDA Kauai ambassador and MDA coordinator. Our goal is to raise $2,000 to purchase a wheelchair. Students from pre-kindergarten through second grade participate in the MDA Hop-a-thon every year. You can help us reach our goal by sending your contribution (check made out to Muscular Dystrophy Association) to St. Catherine School, 5021 Kawaihau Road, Kapaa, HI 96746. (Reported by Celina Haigh)

HONOLULU

Damien Memorial School

Congratulations to senior Timothy Dunne, honored as the AFCEA (Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association) Student of the Month for February 2008. AFCEA is an international organization of academic, civilian, government and military professionals who work in the information technology communications and engineering fields. At a luncheon at Hale Ikena at Fort Shafter, Timothy was presented with a plaque and a U.S. Savings Bond. Tim has a cumulative GPA of 4.13 and is ranked second in his class. He has been accepted at the University of Cincinnati, Illinois Institute of Technology and Rochester Institute of Technology. (Reported by Didi Lota)

KAHULUI

Christ the King School

The school received the Doris Todd Community Service Grant for 2007-2008 and decided to use the money to prepare care packages for the residents at Hale Makua in Kahului. A total of 252 care packages were presented on Feb. 26. Students were asked to reflect on their experience and write a thank you letter to our benefactor Mr. Edward Todd. Here are several excerpts: “I had a special feeling, it is called love. It made me feel like I was giving back to the community.” Ashlei Cummings, 5th grade. “One of the patients was so happy when we sang our Alma Mater. She said that no one had sang a song to her in a very long time.” Carly Perez, 5th grade. “One elderly lady received a teddy bear and she said she would take care of the teddy bear and she said she would take care of the teddy bear forever. The lady named the teddy bear Mr. Personality. I like to give rather than to receive.” Nichol Torrecer-Hutchins, 4th grade. “Thank you for choosing our school to do charity work. I felt like I was Santa Claus. There were some people who thought we were their grandson or granddaughter.” Makana Rivera, 4th grade. “What really touched me was that we gave one of the ladies a stuffed animal and she squeezed it as tight as she could. She did not say anything but we knew in our heart that she was saying thank you.” Nicole Neilson, 4th grade. Pictured are Mrs. Davis and students from grades three to six preparing the care packages. (Reported by Bernadette Lopez)

MAKAWAO

St. Joseph School

The 5th grade is “hip hopping” its way through learning. The students, steered by their creative teacher Mr. Chris Kent, have created a 20-minute video of “The Mouse and the Motorcycle” reinforcement rap based on the junior novel by Beverly Cleary. They also taped flashback skits depicting Revolutionary War events. The collaborative video is just one of the many works highlighted during the Fun Day and Open House on March 1. Pictured are the “Mighty Mouse Boys in the Hood” — David Hafer, Pono Wagner, Aron Graziano Jesse Stenger and Micah Alo. The fifth grade “Girlz” to the “T” (not shown) are Joelene Kuaana, Lilia Lorenzo, Kaylee Thompson, Rebecca Hale and Jillian McClure. The public is welcome to come and see the wonderful education and spirit this school provides for families on Maui. Enrollment has started for the 2008-2009 school year; inquiries can be directed to our school office. (Reported by Helen Souza)

EWA BEACH

Our Lady of Perpetual Help School

Competition for grades K-8 at our annual School-Wide Spelling Bee during Catholic Schools Week lasted almost two hours because the contestants were such excellent spellers. Eighth grader Natasha Manuel and seventh grader Brianne Tabios won the overall competition to enter the Leeward District Spelling Bee. At the Leeward Bee which our school hosted at Leeward Community College Theater, Natasha Manuel won 1st place and Brianne Tabios tied for fourth. Congratulations to our spellers and good luck to Natasha at the State Spelling Bee! Pictured: Principal Sister M. Davilyn Ah Chick, Natasha Manuel, Brianne Tabios and spelling bee director and coach Mrs. Laverne Suster. (Reported by Teresita Gonzales and Shirley Castro, photo by Thalia Woodward)

WAILUKU

St. Anthony Jr./Sr. High School

Congratulations our very own Frank DeFellicia, winner of the National Endowment of the Arts Poetry Outloud Contest. Frank will represent Maui on March 9 at St. Andrew Priory’s Tenny Theater in Honolulu. The winner of the Honolulu competition will go to Washington, D.C., in May to compete at George Washington University at the national level. Frank is under the guidance of drama teacher and club advisor Virginia Sandell. … Have you spent long nights wondering what brand of paintball has the best splatter? Or what brand of popcorn yields the highest percentage of popped kernels? Well, wonder no more. Mrs. Rodriguez’ science classes have those answers and more! Forty of our budding scientists participated in the Maui County Science Fair Feb. 8 at the Kihei Community Center with experiments they have been working on for three months. With 200 county projects displayed, our students represented St. Anthony well. Michele Rabara earned an honorable mention and has been invited to participate in the next level of competition. (Reported by Virginia Nary)

WAIALUA

St. Michael School

“We Follow Jesus”! What a wonderful way to remind the students and staff to remain focused on their Lenten promises. On Feb. 28, as we reached the halfway point in our Lenten journey, the students and staff gathered for a prayer service prepared by the fifth graders. With Scripture readings, petitions and song, we asked Jesus to be our companion and guide during this season. Student representatives from each class came up to add their own footsteps on ways they try to be active Christians. The banner will remain in the church through the rest of Lent and to continue helping us to live our promises and renew ourselves to be better people. May all of our Lenten journeys be blessed as we follow in the footsteps of Jesus! Pictured are Mrs. Lorenzo and her fifth grade class coordinating prayer service on Feb. 28. (Reported by Jennifer Holmberg and Alyssia Lowers)

HONOLULU

Holy Family Catholic Academy

 Students jumped to it when they took part in the American Heart Association “Jump Rope for Heart” Feb. 14 in the school courtyard. The cheerleaders helped us warm-up and stretch our bodies before we showcased our jumping talents. The children also got special tips and assistance from former UH athletes Joelle Sugai, Raeceen Woolford, Ashley Watanabe, and St. Louis High School athletes, Micah Mamiya, Brent Shimabukuru, Isaac Savela, Tamatoa Demello, Billy Stutzman and Lucas Gonsalves. After our hearts got pumping, the students slowed it down, enjoyed a special treat and a presentation by the 808 Break Dancers. The students hope to make a difference in the fight for a cure for cardiovascular disease and stroke. (Reported by Jocelyn Fernandes)

HONOLULU

Maryknoll Grade School

On the grounds of Iolani Palace, fourth graders sang and danced hula, accompanied by the Royal Hawaiian Band on Feb. 8. The performance culminated their six-week music education program, “E Mele Kakou – Let’s Sing.” The program, the effort of the Hawaii Youth Opera Chorus and the Hawaiian Music Foundation, teaches choral music using Hawaiian literature. The students learned performance and choral basics while focusing on music and poetry composed by Hawaii’s royalty. “E Mele Kakou” included instruction on music theory, Hawaiian history, hula and the bel canto singing technique. The fourth grade teachers are Jeff Chang, Sylvia Ching and Colleen Liu. The grade school music teacher is Wendy Chang. Pictured are the students performing “Nani Manoa” with the Royal Hawaiian Band at Iolani Palace. (Reported by Camille Michel)

HONOLULU

Maryknoll High School

The school celebrated Founders Day on Feb. 14, with a Mass at St. Ann in Kaneohe for grades 8 through 12. Father Marc Alexander presided with Manoa-Punahou Catholic Community pastor Father Gordian Carvalho. The school celebrates Founders Week each year to commemorate the Feb. 14, 1920, date when the Maryknoll Sisters were first recognized by Rome as a religious community. The Maryknoll Sisters opened Maryknoll School on Sept. 6, 1927. Pictured receiving a special blessing during Founders Mass were, from left, school president Michael Baker, high school campus minister Rona Augustine-Chun and grade school vice principal Shana Tong. (Reported by Camille Michel; photo by Chad Asato)

PEARL CITY

Our Lady of Good Counsel School

We are returning the recycle bins because thieves continue to steal our donated cans and bottles in the early morning hours. They drag our bins down the hill and take our donations. They leave us the trash, empty bins to push back up the hill, and upset our neighbors with the noise they make. Thank you for participating in this project. The bins were one method of showing our students the importance of caring for the land. Recycling also brought in money to fund some of the student activities. We hope that you will continue to recycle as a family but you need to take your cans and bottles to your nearest recycling center from now on. (Reported by Dominic Olaso)

HONOLULU

Star of the Sea School

The student council proudly presented each homeroom class with “rainy day” games and activities on Feb. 8. Prior to the holidays, wish lists were given to the council, who has been working hard raising funds mostly from their student store. Teachers appreciate these donations and are looking forward to sharing them with their students. We see student council president Chris Garcia giving a few of the games to Mrs. Christine Rizzo. She will present them to a grateful 4th grade homeroom. (Reported by Margaret Rufo)

HONOLULU

Sacred Hearts Academy

The Academy Speech Club for grades five and six took top honors in the Iolani School Speech Festival with the best percentage of superiors in the categories of poetry, storytelling and duo/group interpretation. This young team competed against the talents of St. Theresa, Punahou, Kamehameha, St. Patrick, Iolani and Maryknoll. The students worked diligently all year with speech coach/advisor Susan Phillips and Miki Willa. The students learned that a commitment to hard work definitely has its rewards. Pictured with Phillips are the students who delivered perfect performances of four superiors. In the front row are Aian Katsikas, Siman Zhang, Elizabeth Barrientos, Claudia LaGarde and Kathryn McKee. In back are Makayla Yanos, Tiera Knight, Caroline Kikkawa, Kara Takahashi and Marisa Moakley. (Reported by Hayley Matson-Mathes)

HONOLULU

Holy Trinity School

Mr. Nate Mata, from the Hawaiian band Round and Round comes each Wednesday to teach our third and fourth graders how to play the ukulele. He’s been teaching our kids for nearly five years. Here he is with some future Na Hoku Hanohano winners! (Reported by Colleen Nakama)

KAILUA

St. John Vianney School

Some of our proud third graders pose on their newly tiled classroom floor. The tennis balls protect the tile from being scratched by the desks and chairs. School board member and parent Tim McCoy and helpers Louis Primavera and Robert Chun laid the new floor. Pictured are Paige Ma, Maggie Nichols-Reames, Matthew Lee, Taecia Akana and Hazen Shupe. … We were very proud of Mrs. Aggie Alcover, who was honored for 20 years of service in the Hawaii Catholic Schools! (Reported by Annie Chee)

KANEOHE

St. Ann Early Learning Center

The Covenant Players, an international theater company that teaches character building through drama, visited the children on Feb. 20. They performed a skit called “Don’t Break the Sticks” that taught the children the importance of listening and obeying their parents. It is always wonderful to see the children have fun while learning a valuable lesson. (Reported by Kuulei Halemano)

KANEOHE

St. Ann Model School

On Feb. 14, 44 fourth graders went on a retreat at Paewalani Retreat House in Kaneohe. conducted by our principal of religious education Malulani Kamanu and facilitated by teachers Marilyn Doyle and Alison Kelley. The theme of the retreat was “Christian Community.” The students engaged in small and large group activities including prayer, the “human knot,” community acrostics and guided meditation. The students reflected on the meaning of Lent and experienced a sense of community within their class. It was a chance to “escape” from their normal school schedules and to concentrate on God and each other. Pictured is a small group of students communicating with one another to untie their “human knot.” (Reported by Kuulei Halemano)

HONOLULU

 Saint Louis School

Judge Walter S. Kirimitsu ’58, president of Saint Louis School, and Russell Valente ’79, principal of Saint Louis School, are deeply saddened at announce the resignation of Todd Los Banos, athletic director. Los Banos has been the athletic director for five years. He leaves the school after 12 years of service and returns to The Children’s House, accepting an executive position. He will continue as athletic director through June. The school has formed a search committee and hopes to have someone in place this month. (Reported by Jodi-Anne Yoshida)

HONOLULU

St. Theresa School

Students in 5B are using math games to enhance the math program and to provide the necessary review and drill needed to be successful mathematicians. Pictured, from left, are Marianne Gamatero, Desiree Batangan, Chadlyn Abunag-Gusman and Taylor Cadiz. The smiles on their faces show the fun they are having challenging each other while improving their math skills. Students look forward to the afternoons that provide a more relaxed time as educational games are used to improve various skills. Yes, we do have fun as we learn! (Reported by Sister Marian Therese Muehlbauer)

HONOLULU

Chaminade University

Members of Campus Ministry and Residence Life planned an evening of prayer and dinner for the students at Waialae Beach Park on Feb. 21. Pictured are some of the students and staff who attended. It was so successful that we plan to make this a monthly event. (Reported by Kay Stone)