Waha Nui – 3/19/14
WCC is nurturing special moms who’ve won three of eight Women’s Opportunity awards from Soroptimist International’s Oahu clubs. They were chosen for rising above economic, substance abuse and/or domestic violence obstacles to learn job skills and make a difference in society. The college’s 2014 winners are Jolene Carreira ($2,000), Ashley Shankles ($3,000) and Maile-Ann Wright ($5,000). At the same March 8 brunch, Soroptimists gave Castle High junior and Girl Scout Marissa Lum a $500 Violet Richardson Award for exceptional teen leadership in coordinating a circle of 1,100 leis for Hawaii State Veterans Cemetery, among other projects. (‘Olelo 53 will air the award show at 7:30 p.m. March 23, 4 p.m. March 24, 8 a.m. March 30 and noon March 31) …
State Rep. Jessica Wooley soon moves from the House to direct the Office of Environmental Quality Control (if confirmed), seeing it as “a tremendous opportunity to have a greater impact.” Jessica, D-48 (Kahaluu-Kaneohe), currently chairs the House Agriculture Committee … You know you’re ancient when: A class of Kahuku Elementary third-graders believes you, with jaws dropping, when you say the Dr. Seuss book you’re reading to them is the same one you read to your kids 100 years ago …
The Kalaheo Mustangs have a few Eagles. Freshman Paul Fortunato III earned his Eagle Scout Award March 8 at Troop 425 ceremonies at the Marine base chapel. Paul’s project was to create and install a memorial on base to Marines who gave their lives while serving with Marine Aircraft Group 24 (currently commanded by his father, Col. Paul Fortunato II). Senior James Frick, an athlete and honor student, received his Eagle in March 1 ceremonies from Hickam-based Troop 135. His project was to remove invasive plants at Na Pohaku O Hauwahine and expand the natural area for native birds in Kawainui … Lanikai Elementary needs a cassette/CD player. To offer help, call Kathie Wells at 225-2621
