OBAMA-BILIA

'Imua Obama' lapel pins mark the inaugural occasion

Got a lapel? Put a pin in it to mark the inauguration of President Barack Obama.

McNeil Wilson Communications is selling the 1-inch “;Imua Obama”; pins through eBay and Amazon.com for $10 each (shipping within the United States is included). Search for “;Imua Obama”; at either Web site.

Proceeds will be donated to a local charity to be determined at a later date.

Schoolkids' hopes for future preserved in online book

Children are invited to send a message to the new president by way of the National Education Association's “;Dear Mr. President Project.”;

Through inauguration day, next Tuesday, children may submit letters or drawings addressed to Barack Obama. Fifty will be chosen to be presented in a digital book unveiled on Presidents' Day, Feb. 16. A printed copy will be sent to the White House.

“;Dear Mr. President”; is the centerpiece of the NEA's Inauguration education program, aimed at involving kids in a national dialogue about democracy and citizenship this month.

To download a submission form, visit www.kidthing.com/DMP.

DA KINE

Gymfest contest comes to Kailua

The art and sport of gymnastics will be on display as 25 teams from four countries complete in the 33rd annual Aloha Gymfest Friday and Saturday at the Kailua High School gym.

Kokokahi Gymnastics will host 250 gymnasts from Japan, Canada, Australia and the mainland.

The competition begins with compulsories at 3:30 p.m. Friday and continues at 8 a.m. Saturday. Top-level gymnasts compete at 6 p.m. Saturday. Tickets are $6 Friday, $12 Saturday for an all-day pass. Children are half-price.

For a schedule call 235-6866 or visit www.kokokahigymnastics.com.

Musician uses song to change lives

Breakthrough Performance Workshops promote the power of song to make major changes in people's lives by encouraging self-expression, healing and personal strength.

Musician Mike Pulver will lead a three-day session, Jan. 30 to Feb. 1 on the Waldorf High School campus in Kahala, for people of all ages and singing abilities.

A second session will be offered Feb. 6-8.

The workshops are designed “;to break through whatever holds you back with ease, grace and a song.”;

Cost is $350. To register, call Marcia Zina Mager at 778-6117.