SHINING STARS
Big Isle technician is top library employee
The Hawaii State Public Library System has named
Eugene Ishihara, an automated systems equipment technician on the Big Island, the 2008 Employee of the Year. Ishihara, a 29-year veteran, is responsible for repairing and maintaining computers and other equipment in 13 public libraries. In addition, Ishihara teaches staff the proper use of computers, electronic equipment, hardware and software.
The Thelma Parker Memorial Public & School Library Staff received the 2008 Team of the Year Award. Staff members include Pamela Akao, branch manager; library assistants Jo Ann Koga and Juanette Cordeiro; and janitor Samuel Toler. Keith Fujio, administrative services officer in the Office of the State Librarian, is the 2008 Manager of the Year.
The
Maui Arts & Cultural Center has received $15,000 from the
John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts to support the Maui center's research in arts education. The grant will fund a second year of research at Pomaikai Elementary School in Kahului, the only public school in Hawaii that has an art-integrated, technology-supported curriculum in all classes.
The research team includes the coordinator of the project, Susana Browne, education director of MAAC; Rae Takemoto, Linda Holt, Rene Yamafuji, Michele Ebersole and Deb Brzoska.
Shining Stars appears several times a week in the Star-Bulletin