Neighbor Island briefs

Advertiser Staff and News Services

MAUI

Maui launches work on Wailuku park

WAILUKU, Maui — A groundbreaking ceremony Friday marked the start of a project to build a small park with public restrooms next to the historic 'Iao Theater in Wailuku town.

The Market Street "minipark" also will contain a small office for use by police.

Riedel Construction Inc. was awarded the $306,500 contract for the job, which is expected to be completed in late February.

The unpaved lot where the park will be built has been used for much-needed parking. Motorists are being advised to park behind the theater and the adjoining commercial buildings.

Kihei forum views 17 charter issues

KIHEI, Maui — The Kihei Community Association will sponsor a public forum to discuss the 17 charter amendments that will be put before Maui County voters in the general election.

The event will be held from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Oct. 15 at the Kihei Community Center. Charter Commission Chairwoman Terryl Vencl will explain the proposals and copies of them will be distributed.

For information contact, call Gene Thompson at (808) 879-2758.

BIG ISLAND

Big Isle Press Club marks anniversary

HILO, Hawai'i — Honolulu media attorney Jeffrey Portnoy will keynote the 35th anniversary celebration of the Big Island Press Club on Oct. 25.

The event, which is open to the public, will start at 6 p.m. in the University of Hawai'i-Hilo Campus Center dining room.

The club began in 1977 as an advocate of First Amendment rights, and over the years won several lawsuits over openness in government. It also led the effort to repeal a state law that allowed police to keep arrest records secret.

Also expected to appear at the gathering are several press club charter members, including founding president Bill Arballo, who lives in San Diego.

The cost is $20 for food, entertainment and a no-host bar. Reservations are due by Friday, and can be made by calling Haunani Ogata or Hunter Bishop (808) 935-6621.