About Town | 10-2-15

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Rat lungworm presentation slated

Dr. Susan Jarvi of the University of Hawaii at Hilo Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Daniel K. Inouye College of Pharmacy, will give a presentation for the public titled “Rat Lungworm Disease: Collaborative Efforts to Advance Research and Education” at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Kailua-Kona Public Library.

At least 60 cases of rat lungworm disease have been documented in people in Hawaii, most of them from the Puna District. Rat lung disease increased after 2004, when a carrier of the rat lung nematode appeared on the Big Island. Accidentally ingesting a tiny piece of slug or a bit of slug slime on vegetables or fruits causes the disease. Effects can be mild and flu-like, but some infected people have developed long-term disabilities, and some have died. Jarvi will explain important precautions people can take to protect themselves. She will outline her research and education efforts as part of Hawaii Island Rat Lungworm Disease Working Group, as well as talk about the cost and impact of the disease.

For more information, contact the Kailua- Kona Public Library at 327-4327. Sponsored by Friends of the Libraries, Kona, this program is free to the public.

Rotary clubs announce speakers

The Rotary Club of Kona Mauka will hear from Bud Luth, program development coordinator of the Friendly Place, a West Hawaii emergency homeless shelter. Meetings are from noon to 1 p.m. Tuesdays at Teshima’s Restaurant. For more information, contact Gary Rovelstad at RGRKonaMauka@gmail.com or 324-0318.

Rotary Club of Kona Sunrise will be holding a club assembly at its meeting from 6:45 to 7:45 a.m. Wednesday at Humpy’s, second floor, Coconut Grove Marketplace. For more information, contact Bev Fraser at 936-9965 or rotarybev@gmail.com.

In Waimea, the Rotary Club of North Hawaii will holding its monthly board meeting Wednesday. Items on the agenda include the Dictionary Project and Oktoberfest. Meetings are from noon to 1 p.m. at Anna Ranch. For more information, contact Erik Jacobson at 808-345-9033 or erik@sleepydog.com.

On Thursday, the Rotary Club of Kona meeting has been relocated because of the Ironman triathlon. Participants will meet at the Natural Energy Lab of Hawaii Authority to learn more about its programs. The meeting will run from noon to 1 p.m. For more information, contact James Resor at jcresor@yahoo.com.

Senior hui talks about aging well

The Senior Roundtable Hui will discuss “Aging Well Tricks &Treats” from 1:30 to 3 p.m. Tuesday at Pink Mocha Cafe. Discussion will utilize a 10-question list covering items that may help the senior population to defy aging, and still enjoy a treat or two. The format will be interactive and all age groups are invited. There is no charge for the meeting and coffee or will be available for purchase. Parking is easy access and free.

Call Laura Guluzzy for more information at 326-2100 or writerlsg@gmail.com.

Kupuna Singles meeting Wednesday

Kupuna Singles Club meets for dinner at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday at Orchid Thai restaurant. Call 339-7397 for more information or reservations.