Whether you are new to the islands, looking to make some friends or just want to find something new to do over the weekend, the Newcomers Club of Honolulu might be able to help.

While the organization was founded more than 40 years ago to welcome newcomers to the island, anyone can join, said the group's president, Steve Hightower.

“;People who have lived here for 30 years have become members,”; he said. “;Our mission is to make friends and have fun. We have 276 members.”; Included in this number are 38 lifetime members (members who have been in the club for four or more years and are at least 80 years old).

Hightower recently became the first male president for the Newcomers Club, a social organization that organizes monthly activities, including tours, luncheons, book club meetings, bridge and domino games, and recipe exchanges.

“;A recent trend has been for more men to join,”; said Sharon Wilhilmy, the club's publicity chairwoman. “;It started out as a women's social group, but more men started joining for golf and other activities.”;

Group member Mira Sivara said she's grateful the earlier restrictions were lifted. She lived in Mililani for 13 years, but after a move to the east side of the island, she said, “;I wanted to make friends on that side.

“;It's been wonderful. I've met so many nice people that have lived in all different parts of the world. It's a really good mix.”;

Sivara regularly attends the Newcomers Club coffee hours and potluck dinners, occasionally embarking on one of the tours. “;It's a good way to meet your friends on a regular basis. We get to catch up with each other. And there's always something new, a new restaurant to try, or someone has a talent to share.”;

Carolyn Hilton, who joined the club about six years ago, said, “;I'm originally from Chicago. When I moved, I left my family and friends behind. I've met very good friends through the club. It's also given me an opportunity to serve in volunteer capacities from president to the coffee lady. It keeps me busy and active.”;

One of Hilton's favorite activities is the monthly “;Book Bunch”; gathering. “;In the book discussion group, I'm always aware of different books. ... We discuss the books in depth. The same women attend on a regular basis, so it's very comfortable.”;

THE GROUP'S DIVERSITY keeps choices of activities interesting, according to Hightower. “;Everyone has their own story and things that they like to do,”; he said. The group's luncheons normally showcase a guest speaker, and they've hosted a variety of guest artists from belly dancers and street jugglers, to actors and self-help advisers.

Hightower's wife, Bonnie, serves as the third vice president/membership chairwoman and is in charge of the database of member's information. Michele Parks served as the tour chairwoman for two years.

Parks said her favorite activities were the Ali'i Tour at the Macadamia Farm and the backstage tour of Diamond Head Theatre with John Rampage.

Newcomers Club membership application forms are available on the club's Web site. Annual fees are $20 per individual, $30 per couple. Additional fees are required for tours and outings. Call 591-7600 for details or visit www.newcomersclubofhonolulu.org.