In this Pearl City Local Issue:

🌤️ Pearl City Weather

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Pearl Highlands Center Launches “Kokua for Keiki” Fundraising Program

🚴‍♂️ New Leeward Oahu Bikeway Connects Ewa to Aiea

🚘 Stay Safe This Thanksgiving: Blackout Wednesday

📆 Events

📣 We Want to Spotlight Your Business!

🌺 Pearl City, We Want to Hear From YOU! 🌺

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Pearl Highlands Center Launches “Kokua for Keiki” Fundraising Program

The Pearl Highlands Center is hosting its annual Kokua for Keiki program, an initiative supporting local elementary schools through community spending. Running from December 1, 2024, to January 31, 2025, the program invites Hawaii residents to shop at the center and submit receipts to help participating schools earn donations.

During the two-month period, shoppers earn 10 points for every dollar spent (excluding taxes and gratuities) at the center. These points are allocated to one of three participating schools: Lehua Elementary, Manana Elementary, or Pearl City Elementary, as designated by the participant.

How It Works

• Eligibility: Open to Hawaii residents aged 18 and older.

• Submission: Participants must upload receipts through an online form at pearlhighlandscenter.com. The form requires contact information and school designation.

• Deadline: Receipts must be submitted by January 31, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. HST.

Donation Levels

Schools will compete for donations based on total points earned:

1. First Place: $2,000

2. Second Place: $1,500

3. Third Place: $1,000

The winning schools will be notified and provided instructions on receiving their donations after points are tallied on February 8, 2025.

The Kokua for Keiki program encourages the community to support local education through their everyday shopping, providing vital resources to schools in need.

New Leeward Oahu Bikeway Connects Ewa to Aiea, Enhancing Safety and Access

A new bikeway connecting Ewa to Aiea has opened in Leeward Oahu, linking the West Loch Bike Path with the Pearl Harbor Historic Trail. The $16 million project, completed during the pandemic, features ADA-compliant infrastructure and is part of Hawaii’s broader pedestrian and bicycle network. Officials highlighted its role in improving safety, community health, and access to natural and historic areas.

Stay Safe This Thanksgiving: MADD Highlights Risks of Blackout Wednesday

Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) is urging the public to plan ahead for safe travel during Thanksgiving celebrations, particularly on "Blackout Wednesday," a night associated with heavy drinking. In 2022, 35% of fatal crashes on Thanksgiving Eve involved drunk drivers. MADD advises using sober drivers, rideshares, or public transportation to avoid impaired driving. Hosts are encouraged to assist guests in getting home safely. To raise awareness, MADD is promoting its "Tie One On for Safety" campaign, with red ribbons available at Hele Gas Stations as a reminder to make responsible choices.

Community:

Holiday Gift Fair at Pearlridge Center (former Toys R Us) - Nov 29 to Dec 1st from 10:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. This Black Friday weekend offers handmade gifts from local artisans while supporting Project Hawaii Inc., an organization aiding Hawai'i’s homeless children. Attendees are encouraged to donate gift cards, including meal cards ($9+), Walmart/Target cards ($15), and clothing store cards, to benefit children and teens in need. Admission is free, making it a perfect way to shop and give back.

The Tree Wise Guys - Leeward Community Church’s Children’s Christmas Program. A modern retelling of the three wise men’s journey during their children’s Christmas program. December 1st at 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. The event features music, games, food, and door prizes. Free admission, but advance ticket reservation is required by November 24th. More details are available at the church's website here.

Crafts:

Resin Charcuterie Board - Thursday, November 27 from 10:30am-12:30pm. Charcuterie boards are all the rage- it's time to make your own one-of-a-kind resin board that will impress at any party. This is a creative class for beginners looking to try their hand at resin pouring. Learn more

Made With Aloha Island Craft Fair - November 29 - December 1 from 10:00am-5:00pm. These “made with aloha” expos will showcase local artisans and entrepreneurs with products that are truly of the islands. Drop in and browse through unique gifts, jewelry, apparel, snacks and more. Located at the former Toys R Us.

Winter Wreath Workshop - Saturday, November 30 from 1:00pm-3:00pm. Learn how to make your own beautiful winter wreath using decomesh! Our talented instructors will guide you through the process, providing all the materials you need to create a stunning wreath to adorn your door this holiday season. Learn more

Red Heart Granny Square - Wednesday, December 4 from 10:30am-12:00pm. Join us for this brand new Crochet workshop! Come and learn how to use the new granny square. You will also be showed how to assemble the granny squares. Please bring your own crochet hook. (I-9 or 5.5 mm). Learn more

Entertainment:

KOA'UKA with Special Guests The HiStandard - DRINKSGIVING pa’ina before the feast - Wednesday, November 27 from 9:00pm to 2:00am at Valor Bar located in the Wai Makai third level food court.

Ten Feet + Shar Carillo - Saturday, November 30 from 9:00pm to 2:00am at Valor Bar located in the Wai Makai third level food court.

We Want To Spotlight Local Businesses!

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