Book presentation focuses on former Hawaii governor
Brendan Burns, grandson of the late Hawaii Gov. John A. Burns, will be featured in a talk-story book signing at 5 p.m. Friday at the historic Spencer House in Waimea.
All are invited to this free presentation about Burns’ recently published book, “An Aura of Greatness,” which shares stories and explores the core principles that defined the life of his grandfather.
Brendan Burns, who was nearly 8 years old when Gov. Burns died in 1975, today is principal of Aina Haina Elementary School. During the talk story, he will share what he learned both from his father, retired Hawaii Supreme Court Chief Justice James S. Burns, and extensive research and interviews which, taken together, reveal insights that can serve leaders today.
Reservations are not required. For more information, call Patti Cook at 937-2833 or Paul Johnston at 938-4540.
Libraries announce holiday hours
In observance of the Independence Day, most public libraries will be closed from Friday through Sunday.
The Kailua-Kona Public Library and Thelma Parker Memorial Public &School Library will be open on Friday and closed Saturday through Monday because of their normal schedules.
The Kealakekua Public Library will be open Thursday and closed Friday through Sunday because of its public service schedule.
Visit librarieshawaii.org or call a local library for public service hours.
Elks serves hamburgers for Independence Day
Kona Elks is hosting a Fourth of July “build your own burger bar” with 17 toppings, Wally’s spicy baked beans, cole slaw, chips and mini chocolate sundaes for $15.
The event is from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Saturday. The parade will pass by a little after 6 p.m. and fireworks will follow.
Those who wish to become Elks are welcome. Reservations are required and may be made by calling 329-2616.
Meditation class offered in Waimea
Gavin Harrison will lead a sitting and walking meditation class with talk, dialogue and inquiry from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. Sunday at Waimea Events Salon, 66-1664 Waiaka St.
Groups are nondenominational and open to experienced and beginning meditators. Meditation guidance is offered. Attendees should bring a meditation cushion. Chairs are available. Donations are accepted.
For more information, contact Matilda Tompson at 885-9206, tompsonp001@hawaii.rr.com, or visit gavinharrison.net.
Kona Traffic Safety Committee meets
Kona Traffic Safety Committee will meet from 4:30 to 6 p.m. July 9 to discuss traffic issues with public officials who can make a difference. Everyone is welcome.
The committee meets on the second Thursday of each month in the Mayor’s Conference Room of the West Hawaii Civic Center on the second floor of Building C above the license bureau.
Smith attends DAR Continental Congress
A Waimea woman was among the more than 3,500 members of the Daughters of the American Revolution to attend its 124th annual Continental Congress. State Regent Mary Ellen Smith, of the Hawaii Loa chapter in Waimea, attended.
Highlights of the weeklong event included welcoming respected keynote speakers and award winners during the gala evening ceremonies.
DAR is celebrating the 125th anniversary of its founding this year. The organization continues to be an active women’s service organization focused on promoting historic preservation, education and patriotism. During the 124th Continental Congress, there were special events to commemorate this milestone anniversary, including the opening night ceremony, which highlighted the organization’s history.
The DAR Continental Congress is a time-honored tradition that has been held in Washington, D.C., as the annual national meeting of the membership since the organization’s founding. National, state and chapter leaders, as well as other members, meet at the DAR National Headquarters to report on the year’s work, honor outstanding award recipients, plan future initiatives and reconnect with friends. The convention consisted of business sessions, committee meetings, and social functions, and is topped off with formal evening ceremonies at which national DAR award winners are honored.
Souza named to college dean’s list
Kamela Souza of Kailua-Kona was recently named to the dean’s list at the College of William &Mary in Williamsburg, Va., for the spring semester.
In order to achieve dean’s list status, a full-time degree-seeking undergraduate student must take at least 12 credit hours and earn a 3.6 quality point average during the semester.
William &Mary is the second oldest institution of higher learning in the United States.