READ ON!

Still time to keep library doors open

In a commitment to literacy, donors have contributed more than $207,800 to help Hawaii's financially ailing libraries. The latest big donation came recently from dentist Dr. Lawrence Tseu, who pledged $20,000. State budget woes are forcing a cutback in operating days and hours. It's not too late to contribute to the 51 public libraries. The state library system's Keep Your Library Open campaign is accessible at http://www.librarieshawaii.org; the Friends of the Library of Hawaii's Keep the Doors Open! drive can be reached via www.friendsofthelibraryofhawaii.org/

TURN IT OFF!

Couch potatoes can sprout at early age

It's not enough for parents to turn off the TV at home; they should ensure that day care providers also provide a healthy environment for their young ones. A survey of 168 licensed child care programs in Michigan, Washington, Florida and Massachusetts found that 70 percent of home-based providers and 36 percent of child care centers had the tots watching TV every day. Couch potatoes can sprout early, so whether at home or at preschool, limit time spent with the electronic baby sitter.

ROCK ON!

Give thanks and help others while you're at it

Pass the turkey and the rock 'n' roll. The Hard Rock Cafe is teaming up with several nonprofits to serve a traditional Thanksgiving feast to hundreds of homeless people and needy senior citizens at its Honolulu restaurant.

The nearly 500 guests will include clients of the Waikiki Health Center's Friendly Neighbors Program, which helps senior citizens maintain relative independence in their own homes. Help is needed to serve the meals from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Thursday. If you'd like to volunteer, call the Waikiki Health Center at 922-4788.