Dr Maszlee Malik waves to the media after announcing his resignation as Education Ministry during a special press conference in Putrajaya today. Bernama photo

KUCHING: Dr Maszlee Malik has today announced that he will resign his post as Education Minister effective Jan 3.

Maszlee made the announcement following a press conference called at his office after several reports emerged that he would be resigning his post.

Following a meeting with Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, I realised that it was in the countrys best interest that I resign my post as education minister, he told the media.

He reiterated several times that his loyalty to the country and his party (Bersatu) was unfaltering, and his trust in Dr Mahathirs leadership.

Maszlee also highlighted several achievements of his ministry since Pakatan Harapan took power after the last general election.

Meanwhile, Dr Mahathir has also issued an official statement, saying that he had received and accepted Maszlee resignation.

I will announce his successor shortly, the statement read.

The Simpang Rengam MP has come under fire several times in the past after making some controversial moves, the latest of which is the introduction of Jawi calligraphy in vernacular schools.

Readers can view the full press release on his Facebook page below:

Facebook Messenger Twitter WhatsApp Email Print

See the rest here:
Maszlee resigns as Education Minister effective Jan 3 - The Borneo Post

Modern technologies, be it AI, machine learning, 5G, Internet of Things, or blockchain, are transforming our future. Leading the way are startups that are harnessing disruptive innovation to create a new market and value network, displacing established firms and products.

The ranking of the 50 Most Disruptive Startups for the year 2019 was based on a well-defined methodology that takes into consideration key valuation metrics and leverages the YourStory teams rich experience and knowhow in the space. As the most prominent startup ecosystem enabler in India, YourStory is rightly equipped with the qualitative data and industry insights to create the most authentic listings of its kind.

Our ranking of the Top 50 Most Disruptive Startups spotlights startups with groundbreaking ideas that are creating a deep impact for good with the help of technology.

To arrive at the rankings for the 50 Most Disruptive Startups, a jury comprising YourStory Research and Data Heads, senior editorial staff, and industry experts narrowed down the initial list of around 300 nominations through multiple deliberations. A score was assigned to various valuation metrics such as market opportunity, team, technology or the product or service provided, innovation, and growth potential to determine the ranking of each of these startups.

The jury carefully considered the teams capabilities and skills to create disruptive tech-based solutions and scale the business in its addressable market. In addition, the extent of the product innovation of startups, both in terms of product utilisation and defensibility, its market potential, the scalability of the solution, and clarity of the revenue models were also carefully considered by the jury before making their final selection of 50 Most Disruptive Startups.

Ola, one of the worlds largest ride-hailing companies, announced 'Mission: Electric', with a commitment to place 10,000 e-rickshaws in its service in the next 12 months.

From cycle rickshaws to shuttles and last-mile transport, three-wheelers continue to be a dominant form of daily transit for many people in India. Building on the pioneering EV pilot by the company in Nagpur, Ola believes electrification can improve outcomes for drivers, customers, and its business model.

Ola is the market leader in app-based hailing and intends to leverage its scale to bring cleaner, more comfortable, and safer products to the market.

With investments from SoftBank, Tiger Global, Ratan Tata, and several others, the well-heeled startup became the fastest unicorn after Udaan.

Ola Electric has an ambitious target to deploy a million EVs by 2021, with around 10,000 of them by end-2019 itself. It is also building charging infrastructure and swappable batteries for these vehicles.

In March this year, Hyundai Motor and Kia Motor announced an investment of $300 million in Ola with a focus on electric vehicles. As part of this partnership, Hyundai, Ola, and Kia will develop unique fleets and different mobility solutions.

Read more at:https://yourstory.com/companies/ola-electric

Paytm Money is a wholly-owned subsidiary of One97 Communications, which owns and operates Paytm. The company has partnered with all 40 AMCs, making it the only investment platform that offers investments in direct plans of mutual funds from all AMCs in India.

The company has received regulatory approvals for offering Stock Broking NPS services and is expected to launch soon.

Paytm Money aims to become a full-stack investment and wealth management platform in its journey to bring wealth creation opportunities to millions of Indians. It is headquartered in and operates from Bengaluru with its 250+ member team.

Paytm Money, the wealth management division of Paytm, one of Indias biggest payment brand, launched with a bang last year. Pre-launch, the platform already had close to 850,000 signups, 65 percent of which came from Tier II and III geographies.

The diversification includes its foray into stock broking servicesfor which it has acquired necessary approvals from SEBI, earlier this yearas well as the sale of National Pension Scheme, exchange traded funds (ETFs), and other financial instruments.

This comes when just two percent of Indias population has invested in equity-related vehicles. Meaning plenty of opportunities for new-age digital investment platforms like Paytm Money.

The One97 Communications subsidiary is also looking to pick up Rs 250 crore from its parent in the next 18-24 months, and reach 50 million users in the next three years.

The wealth management space in India has caught the eye of several investors this year, including the likes of Ribbit Capital, and Y Combinator with their investment in Bengaluru-based wealth management startup Groww.

Read more at:https://yourstory.com/companies/paytm-money

Ninjacart undertakes the risk of picking up fruits and vegetables from farmers and delivering it to small retail outlets, its revenue is largely dependent on the commission it earns from the entire transaction.

In a country like India, the supply chain of fruit and vegetables is riddled with inefficiencies where the ends of the chain, meaning the producer (read farmer) and consumer, are generally shortchanged in terms of quality and price. Bengaluru-based startup Ninjacart wants to change that with the adoption of technology.

The startup sources agricultural produce directly from farmers and supplies to small retailers. Fruits and vegetables are highly perishable commodities, and any lag can severely impact the entire supply chain.

A huge endorsement for Ninjacart was when the young startup got the attention of Tiger Global. In April this year, the PE fund led the $100 million round for Ninjacart. Walmart has also reportedly expressed interest as an investor. The staratup has raised $154 million till now.

Read more at:https://yourstory.com/companies/ninjacart

Residents use the MyGate app to communicate with neighbours, discuss matters of the community and society on internal discussion forums, manage visitors (guests, deliveries, cabs etc), maintain attendance records, and salary payments for daily help, discover services, pay society maintenance bills, among other services.

The huge market opportunity has seen many players throwing their hats into the ring. MyGate competes with the likes of Reliance Industries (which has entered the segment with its apartment-management app JioGate), NoBroker, and Adda, to name a few.

Bengaluru-based startup MyGate offers security management and convenience service for gated communities and apartments. Its mobile app allows home-owners and residents to have control and monitor entries and exits, communicate with their neighbours, log attendance for domestic workers, and pay society maintenance bills.

In October 2019, the security management startup bagged $56 million in its Series B funding from Chinas Tencent, Tiger Global, JS Capital, and existing investor Prime Venture Partners.

The startup said it would invest the funds in its technology architecture and hire almost 200 individuals across its product and technology functions. With a team of 700 employees, MyGate plans to take its employee count to 2,000 over the next year.

Read more at:https://yourstory.com/companies/mygate

Meesho is creating an environment where anyone can start their business with zero investment. The startup aims to create about 20 million micro-entrepreneurs by 2020.

The word meesho means my shop, and the hook of the company is to enable people to start their business from home without any investment, the biggest problem that any small entrepreneur faces.

There are over two million resellers on the Meesho platform; more than 20,000 manufacturers from 500 towns get distribution facilities through Meesho across the country. Meesho works on approximately 10-15 percent commission and sellers can earn by adding a profit margin on every sale.

The company saw 50X growth in two consecutive years and the growth in the number of orders (HY18 to HY19) has been 1451 percent.

The biggest validation for the company was when Facebook invested in the company. Till date, the startup has raised $215.2 million in funding.

Bengaluru-based Meesho is a mobile-first social commerce platform for small businesses that typically use WhatsApp and Facebook to keep in touch with customers. It is touted to be one of Indias first reselling apps, providing an "escape route" to homemakers.

While social apps have seen a lot of traction in Bharat, social commerce is still in its early days in the country: while 300 million people use social apps like Facebook on a regular basis, less than 100 million of them buy online trust and discovery being the biggest issues.

Meesho, which has stated its vision is to enable an environment where anyone can start their business with zero investment, is solving for these problems, by providing micro-entrepreneurs with trusted supply, social sharing tools, efficient logistics, and payment capabilities.

It began with with apparel, but Meesho now sells a range of products, including cosmetics, jewellery, accessories, and kitchenware. According to RoC filings, the startup reported a revenue of Rs 84.88 crore for FY19, an increase by 14x from Rs 6.01 crore in FY18.

Facebook recently made an undisclosed investment in the startup - the social media giants first in a startup in India.

Read more at:https://yourstory.com/companies/meesho

CleverTap claims to have generated over $2 billion in incremental revenue to its customers, and currently, has a reach of more than one billion devices and over 8,000 consumer apps in more than 100 countries.

Since 2015, the startups revenue has been growing at 250 percent year over year.

Recently, the startup opened its APAC headquarters in Singapore and has expanded its presence in the US and Europe to serve rapidly-scaling brands.

The India market has a clear dearth in providing viable solutions that drive needed business outcomes for mobile conversion, retention, and growth. CleverTap is solving this pain point, and is the only player that has shown significant growth metrics in India.

The platform offers customer lifecycle management and engagement, so as to promote growth and long-term user retention for startups run by mobile apps. Leveraging machine learning, it offers an engagement suite that enables brands to convert, engage, retain, and grow their mobile user base.

Led by its existing investors Sequoia Capital India and Tiger Global Management, CleverTap raised $26 million in Series B and $35 million in Series C funding rounds, raising its valuation to $385 million.

The company said the latest round of funding would enable it to help more companies achieve their retention goals as they build long-lasting relationships with their customers.

Read more at:https://yourstory.com/companies/clevertap

BulkMRO caters to large corporate customers that procure MRO (maintenance, repair, and operations) products in high volumes. It supplies products usually categorised under 'indirect spends', 'category C spends' or 'miscellaneous spends' in the company's finances. This includes products across hardware, tools, electricals, and office supplies.

BulkMRO was one of the eight Indian startups shortlisted for YCombinator's Winter 2017 batch. In April 2017, it raised an undisclosed amount from YCombinator with other investors, including Ace & Company, Bain Capital Ventures, FJ Labs, and a few other angels also participating in the round.

According to the founders, BulkMRO works with large corporate customers across industries. It makes margins from the difference in the buying and selling price of the products it supplies.

BulkMRO was founded to consolidate the otherwise fragmented B2B marketplace for long-tail industrial products. Its customers are giant corporates that manufacture everything from medicines and cars to locomotives and turbines. The market for these industrial products is completely fragmented and corporates need to deal with thousands of mom-and-pop shops.

Major government reforms such as GST, Make in India, and the push to digitise the supply chain have created opportunities for players to consolidate the highly fragmented market. According to BulkMROs founders, this is their 'Flipkart moment.'

BulkMRO acts as a master vendor for large corporate customers, managing the entire pool of MRO through a network of indirect vendors on its platform. Thus, BulkMRO, as one centralised vendor, reduces the order intensity and reconciles GST input credits. By consolidating orders across multiple, large customers, BulkMRO is able to negotiate better rates across brands. These discounts are ultimately passed on to the customer.

Read more at:https://yourstory.com/companies/bulkmro

OkCredit uses digitisation to reduce the merchants burden of maintaining business accounts. It also allows them to send collection notifications to customers in case of delayed or missed payments.

To solve the trust problem, once a merchant registers a transaction on the platform against a customer, s/he is immediately informed through text or WhatsApp.

Eventually, the startup became a part of YCombinators 2018 summer batch and raised money from the US-based seed accelerator during its $1.7 million pre-Series A round. The round saw participation from LightSpeed India Partners, Venture Highway, Y Combinator, along with other angels.

In January 2018, OkCredit picked up seed investment of $300,000 from Lightspeed India Partners. Post the June 2019 Series A funding, the founders said the capital will be used primarily for scaling up the team and hiring across functions, including product and technology.

OkCredit will use the funds to grow its customer base by focusing on aspects of customer stickiness.

It was 2017 when serial entrepreneurs Harsh Pokharna, Gaurav Kumar, and Aditya Prasad realised that despite the proliferation of digital payment instruments and point of sale machines, most customers purchase goods on credit recorded in a notebook. Small businesses are yet to completely digitise their bookkeeping processes.

Their interactions with daily grocery stores helped them understand that most of the accounting and credit given by these shopkeepers were recorded on paper; small pieces that could easily be misplaced.

This system meant that it took longer to calculate and also lacked the aspect of trust since there was no way to verify accounts. This is what led them to start a digital-based credit balance recording solution for small business owners later that year.

Investors have taken notice of the startups success. In June 2019, OkCredit stated that it had raised $15.5 million as a part of its Series A round led by Tiger Global Management. The round also saw participation from new investor Morningside Venture Capital and existing investors Lightspeed India Partners, Venture Highway, and Y Combinator. Lightspeed had also made an initial seed investment in the company.

Just three months later, OkCredit raised $67 million as part of its Series B fundraise from Lightspeed (India and US) as well as Tiger Global. This round took OkCredits total fundraise from June 2019 to September 2019 to $83 million.

Read more at:https://yourstory.com/companies/okcredit

The parent company of Glance is InMobi, which was Indias first unicorn. A little more than a year old, this startup has achieved a key milestone of having customers running into millions and an endorsement by way of investment from a leading Silicon Valley venture capital firm.

These are still early days to talk about monetisation for Glance as this is the initial phase. The monetisation route will depend on how the content players are willing to enter into a revenue-sharing model. It would also be dependent on how the users continue to explore newer avenues that go beyond mere consumption of information.

Glance is available in multiple languages like English, Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu and also in Indonesian language Bahasa. This gives the startup access to a wider captive audience.

The opportunity is quite large for Glance and with the deployment of technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, it gives it the heft to make a difference in the dynamic world of mobile content.

Disruptive Quotient

In a mobile-first economy like India, smartphones have seen rapid adoption, and startups are innovating for the handset. Here is a startup that has built a captive customer base at the entry point of any mobile handset: the screen.

Bengaluru-based Glance provides content on the screen of a mobile handset that is snappy, consumable, and in sync with the needs of both the millennial and Generation Z.

The aim of InMobis mobile-first platform Glance is simple: provide visually rich content that informs and entertains users be it an entertainment factoid, a sporting event result, a news snippet, or a fashion recommendation. And all this, one lock-screen at a time.

Today, Glance has over 50 million daily active users under its belt who spend an average of 22 minutes. Glance is not an app, but comes as a service that is pre-installed on mobile phones manufactured by Samsung, Xiaomi, Gionee, and Vivo.

As the entry point of Glance is through the mobile handset manufacturers, it gives them an edge in reaching out to the content consuming public.

Affirmation for Glance came in the form of investment from Mithril Capital, whose Co-founder Peter Theil is a legend in his own right in the Silicon Valley.

This is just the beginning for Glance as mobiles as the platform for content consumption is going to remain for a long time and this will only enable this startup to come out with newer innovations.

Read more at:https://yourstory.com/companies/glance

About Company

Yulu's vision is to decongest urban traffic by providing scalable, affordable, efficient, and clean modes of transportation as solutions for first and last-mile connectivity and short distance commute.

Meant for one commuter, Yulu EVs or its scooters have a 48-volt motor controller and a maximum speed of 25 km per hour, and they require no licence or helmet.

A single charge can take the light-weight bike (45 kg) up to 60 km. The user need not worry about the battery; it has a swappable lithium-ion battery. Like a smartphone, the scooter interacts with the server every five minutes. This helps the company know the charge level of every Yulu Miracle being operated across the city, and the team gets an update the minute the battery levels drop below 10 percent.

If required, they can send the on-ground ops team to swap the battery. Yulu is currently operational in Bengaluru, Pune, Delhi, Mumbai, and Bhubaneswar. In Bengaluru alone, Yulu has over 850 Yulu zones or parking zones. Users pay a mandatory Rs 10 for a Yulu Miracle ride, and an additional Rs 10 per 10 minutes of ride time.

Disruptive Quotient

Founded in 2017, the bike-sharing solution platform Yulu first launched its shared-cycles in Bengaluru. It aims to address traffic problems with an IoT solution. Its light blue cycles and electric bikes are visible even in some of the most traffic-congested areas of cities. There are different moving parts in Yulus system that ensure these bikes are available in the right density at every location at the right time.

Founder Amit Gupta estimates that the market size of the shared mobility space with bicycles is currently close to $8-$10 billion globally, and is expected to grow beyond $1 billion in India by 2022.

Since mobility solutions need a high-frequency use-case, Amit believes Yulu can be grown into a platform with the business potential between five to 10 times.

Yulu launched its electric vehicles, Yulu Miracle, in Bengaluru in February 2019. It expanded this offering to Delhi in August. The startup also recently partnered with Uber with pilot operations in Bengaluru. With this tie-up, the Uber app redirects users to the registration page of Yulu.

In Delhi, due to the extreme weather conditions, the company doesn't find it feasible to launch its cycles. Yulu is planning to deploy 5,000 Miracles across metro stations in Delhi by the end of this year and up to 25,000 of the EVs by 2020.

Read more at:https://yourstory.com/companies/yulu

About Company

Avaada Energy is a leading independent power producer (IPP) of renewable energy projects. With a portfolio of over 1.8 GW of renewable energy projects in India, Avaada is one of the fastest-growing green energy firms, developing sustainable energy through its innovative utility and open access solutions in the solar, wind, rooftop, and hybrid energy markets.

Avaada works with various businesses, supporting them in interweaving business goals with initiatives of environmental sustainability and social responsibility, producing mutually beneficial results. Avaada aims to uplift the livelihood of the communities it works with through its engagement initiatives.

The company claims to have commissioned over 1.8 GW of renewable energy plants and has a portfolio of over 500 MW of open-access solar plants in the commercial category.

Avaada Energys annual revenue is estimated as $3 million.

Disruptive Quotient

See original here:
YourStory's Top 50 Disruptive Startups: Indian companies that dominated the news in 2019 - YourStory

Jennifer Brantley was 17 when she experienced an abortion.

I wanted to go to college. There was no (abortion) education at that time, no social media, she said. My parents told me we cant afford to raise another child.

Now director of a branch of Hand to Hope in Raleigh, North Carolina, the pregnancy center which recently won a fight with the city to relocate next to Planned Parenthood, she oversees the abortion recovery program, known as PACE (Post Abortive Counseling Education).

[Click here to subscribe to Pregnancy Help News!]

To help these women feel less isolated, she created an invitation-only Facebook page.

Women say they feel alone. I stress (that) they are not alone, she said.

Tweet This: Women say they feel alone. I stress (that) they are not alone

Brantley uses the Bible study Forgiven and Set Free, created by Linda Cochrane, in her program. During the past two years she has led the study, 18 women have completed the program 14 just in the past year.

Its been amazing what God has done, she said. I think some of that is due to the movie Unplanned. More women are learning about abortion healing.

Because of concerns about Facebooks operations as a company, Brantley also set up a community for program participants on an app called Group Me, creating a facilitators page as well.

Its even more private than Facebook, she said. Its going well. These women are talking. They are thinking, I dont have to guard myself.

Facilitators also need a space for sharing with one another, Brantley said.

Its very heavy emotionally (to work with post-abortive women), she said. We can glean off of each other and pray for one another.

Earlier this month, she and several of the women shes mentored came together for a Christmas gathering.

Ten of the 14 showed up, she said. We had snacks, played games, and the ladies could share their story if they wanted. Many did. It bonded us, and were going to get together even more.

Another event is planned for February, she added.

Im really excited, Brantley said. Well have food and games again, with door prizes, and well sit and talk with each other.

She encourages other centers with an abortion recovery program to do something similar.

Id like to see this grow in North Carolina and with centers across the country, she said. It takes a lot of fight (to go through abortion healing).

Brantley knows about that fight. She became addicted to alcohol and drugs. After she married, her mother-in-law began taking her to church. That experience changed her life.

It was the first time I heard the Gospel, she recalled. I accepted Christ and asked Him to forgive me for the abortion. Afterward, I felt that peace that surpasses all understanding.

However, she said, the devil began his attacks. Amid the challenges, she felt God wanted her to serve at a pregnancy center. She learned about Hand of Hope from a friend and attended a banquet.

I decided to volunteer, Brantley said. They asked me if I was post-abortive. I said yes, but that I knew God had forgiven me. I learned that to volunteer I needed to go through Forgiven and Set Free, so I did. Little did I know I hadnt healed from the abortion. I had not grieved for my child. Its an amazing transformation.

From volunteer to director, from a woman experiencing abortion to helping women find forgiveness and freedom after one, Brantley sees the hand of God in her life and in her work at Hand of Hope.

I want a woman to know the whole truth nobody told me what having an abortion would be like, she said. God wants me to share my story, and Im very humbled by what He is doing by using me.

Tweet This: I want a woman to know the whole truth nobody told me what having an abortion would be like

See the original post:
Pregnancy center director creates online groups, in-person gatherings to help post-abortive women - Pregnancy Help News

The Ida Rupp Public Library has several new and returning childrens programs beginning in January. Story Time with Mrs. Winke (previously called Tales for Toddlers) returns on Monday, Jan. 6. New programs include Sensory Story Time for toddlers with sensory needs or who are on the autism spectrum; After School Story Time for children 5-8 who still enjoy having a book read to them; and Bedtime Story Time to wind down after a busy week. All story times meet on a weekly basis.

Erie Islands Library has added Homework Help where elementary students may stop by after school for a little help in understanding a lesson or even for some encouragement. This is a weekly program as well.

The January calendar includes the following:

Teen MYSTERY Movie, The title will remain a mystery! Come to the event to find out. Ida Rupp Public Library; 3-5 p.m.

Mystery Book Club, Something in the Water by Catherine Steadman, Ida Rupp Public Library; 7-8 p.m.

Friday Friends Story Time, Marblehead Peninsula Branch Library; 11 a.m.-noon. An engaging 30 minute storytime filled with books, crafts, and songs.

Indie Movies @ the Library, Blinded by the Light, Ida Rupp Public Library; 7-9 p.m.

Yoga for Seniors & Beginners, Marblehead Peninsula Branch Library;9-10 a.m.

Story Time with Mrs. Winke, Ida Rupp Public Library; 10:30 -11 a.m. Bring children to story time and enjoy books, music, finger plays, and puppets.

Teen Tech Time, Ida Rupp Public Library; 3-4 p.m. Meet in the Tech Room at the front of the library to do anything and everything tech.

After School Story Time, Ida Rupp Public Library; 3:30-4 p.m. For children who still enjoy hearing a story read to them. Enjoy books, music and more.

Books and Brews, Jamestown Tavern, Marblehead; 6:30-7:30 p.m.

One on One Tech Help, Ida Rupp Public Library; 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Bring your tech devices and a library staff person will assist you in learning the devices features.

Painting for Kids, Erie Islands Library; 4:30-5:30 p.m. Great ideas for gifts or decorating your room!

Sensory Story Time, Ida Rupp Public Library, 10:30-11 a.m. Interactive story time for toddlers with sensory needs or who are on the autism spectrum.

Be Here Now Yoga with Alyssa, Marblehead Peninsula Branch Library; 6:30-8:15 p.m. For both beginners and experienced yoga students, this class helps you take time for yourself and allows you to be here now.

One on One Tech Help, Ida Rupp Public Library; 1-3 p.m. Bring your tech devices and a library staff person will assist you in learning the devices features.

Coloring and Coffee, Erie Islands Library; 2-3 p.m. A relaxing time where you can create a beautiful picture and enjoy a selection of coffees and teas.

Teen Art Club, Ida Rupp Public Library; 3-4 p.m. Create an original work of art or start with a coloring book and add your own creativity.

Homework Help, Erie Islands Library; 3:15-4 p.m. Need a little help with a lesson in school? The librarians are there to help.

Yarn & Needles Club, Ida Rupp Public Library; 4:30-7 p.m. If you knit, crochet or hook, this is an opportunity to meet other crafters, share ideas, and have some fun.

Elementary STEM, Ida Rupp Public Library; 3:30-4:30 p.m. Get to do hands-on experiments like catapult a bug onto a target, move a ball without touching it, and use gravity to make a cart go faster

Pulitzer Prize Book Club, The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey, Marblehead Peninsula Branch Library; 4-5 p.m.

Bedtime Story Time, Ida Rupp Public Library, 7-7:30 p.m. Come to the library in your PJs, bring a pillow and/or stuffed animal to hear bedtime stories and listen to relaxing music.

Post Views: 155

See more here:

Ida Rupp Library branches have busy January - The Beacon

Taking kids to get their vaccinations can be a traumatic process for everyone involved.

There can be tears, tantrums, begging, shaking, screaming and panic not to mention the accompanying parental guilt.

It's common to think there's not much you can do except hold on tight and get through it until the next time. But Liz Bishop's experience suggests there's a better way.

Liz's two boys Alex and Hamish have both had countless needles in the course of lifelong haemophilia treatments, as well as the usual battery of childhood vaccinations.

One thing that separates them, though, is their differing emotional responses to needles.

Alex endured plenty of bad needle experiences, including being restrained to a bed with sheets and forced to have gas as a method of relaxation. These exacerbated his phobia and caused the family a lot of distress and later in life he still harbours a reluctance to see medical professionals.

However, about four years later when Hamish came along, the family met paediatrician and childhood pain management specialist Angela Mackenzie.

She helped Hamish and his family develop coping mechanisms that have seen needles not play a negative role in his life.

"You have the power to be an advocate for your child," Liz says. "As a parent you have to feel like you have a sense of control over the situation."

Each child is different but the experience of child psychologists, paediatricians and the Bishop family indicates that as a parent or carer, keeping kids calm at needle time and sending relaxing messages to your child can help your child avoid debilitating trauma around jabs.

Anxiety around getting jabs and blood tests is very common especially in kids.

A 2012 Canadian study (there are no Australian figures available) reported 63 per cent of children aged 6-12 had a fear of needles.

Almost of quarter (24 per cent) of parents reported they did, too.

Distress aside, a fear of needles presents a wider societal health problem, with the study finding for up to 8 per cent of families it was the reason for them not getting routine immunisations.

How have you helped ease the your childs anxiety with needles? Share your advice with other parents below or at life@abc.net.au

The short answer is: it's complicated.

As with many fear and phobia-related issues, they can develop from our brains building up a negative association with needles after a few bad experiences even ones we can't remember.

There is evidence that even things that happened to us as newborn babies can impact the way we react to pain.

So you may never get to the bottom of your child's fear but that doesn't mean you are powerless to help them.

Get our newsletter for the best of ABC Life each week

ABC Life spoke to Queensland Children's Hospital senior psychologist Dr Moana Harlen, the head of Sydney Children's Hospital's Paediatric Pain and Palliative care research team Dr Tiina Jaanist and Dr Mackenzie who has written a book about helping children cope with medical procedures about how parents can help children play it cool at needle time.

Here is some of their key advice. But if you suspect your child's fear is more of a phobia, that may require some professional treatment of its own.

Dr Harlen says the ultimate preparation is working with your child regularly at times of high stress to practice relaxation and emotional regulation techniques.

"It's really important that parents provide a consistent message, consistent modelling and really help practice emotion regulation skills themselves, and that they model them for their child," she says.

"Every now and then just saying that you're taking deep breathing exercise when a little bit worried about something or feeling overwhelmed.

"The idea is to keep them as calm for as long as you possible can prior to and during the needle."

When supporting someone with anxiety, often the important thing is just to be there, sitting quietly and listening, without trying to whisk away the problem or fix it.

She also says trust in your relationship with your child is paramount so, especially if a shot is likely to be an unpleasant surprise, give the kid a heads up without making a big deal of it.

If you don't, you risk making the situation worse and having them afraid of going to the doctor altogether even for things that will not involve a jab.

If you think it's worth your while, let the clinic or doctor know in advance your little one is apprehensive, but don't do this in front of your child, lest you reinforce their anxiety.

This will allow the doctor or nurse to approach needle time gently.

But remember, you know your child better than anyone, so don't rely on the doctors and nurses doing everything to ensure a stress-free experience. This is firmly up to you.

Dr Jaaniste said while numbing cream is often recommended as a method of easing the sensation of getting a needle, it does need to be applied to where the needle will actually go, so you need to talk to the physician about this in advance for advice and their OK.

Loading...

It's not always as easy as the doctor in the above video makes it look (especially as kids get older and catch on to what's up) but distraction can be powerful when the moment arrives.

If you have a baby, breast or bottle feeding through the procedure can both distract and keep them restrained.

Try to keep an older child still with a calming cuddle or, if possible, ask them where they would be most comfortable. Seated on you lap? Lying on the bed looking out the window? Liz says from her experience and talking to others, giving the child a sense of control can take some tension out of the situation.

Very few of us enjoy getting needles. But for some people the fear gets out of control and when that happens it can interfere with life.

Depending on their age and what's the flavour of the month (or let's face it, week/day/hour), take something likely to capture their attention and distract from what the doctor is up to? A song. A pinwheel (helps slow breathing and therefore relaxation). A book. Streaming videos of rubbish trucks. A teddy.

Dr Mackenzie and Liz also strongly recommend listening to music as both a relaxation and distraction technique.

It's worth remember that sometimes not knowing what is going on can cause some of us more concern. Dr Mackenzie said if your child is keen to see what's going on, let them watch remember it's a totally normal part of life, so treat it as such.

When trying to separate what's a threat from what's cool, children instinctively look to the adults in their lives and follow their cues.

So if you speak negatively about needles, exhibit signs of distress or impart words of empathy you're subtly sending the signal that there's a reason to alarmed.

That's not helpful in the short or long term, so here are some approaches that may help:

This is general information only. For detailed personal advice, you should see a qualified medical practitioner who knows your medical history.

The rest is here:

If your child is afraid of needles, you can help stop it turning into a phobia - ABC News

Matched!: Top 7 Celebrities That Tried (Or Still Trying) Online Dating Apps And How You Can Join Them ( Photo by freestocks.org on Unsplash )

When it comes to choosing your partner on various online dating apps, what are the things you consider?

The looks? Height? The smile? What if it is a famous celebrity from your favorite TV show?

I know what you're thinking. Why not, right? Luckily, a lot ofHollywood celebritiesseemed also to be interested in finding their true love using different online dating apps. So the question is, are you ready to find out whom they are?

Top Seven Hollywood Celebrities That You Might Get Matched With Online

(Photo : Screenshot from: Hillary Duff Instagram Account) Matched!: Top 7 Celebrities That Tried (Or Still Trying) Online Dating Apps And How You Can Join Them

Gentlemen (or ladies), relax. Hillary Duff is no longer into dating using online apps since singer Matthew Koma got her to say yes to a wedding. However, if you are into Tinder for quite some time, you might actually meet Hillary back then. In her 2015 music video titled 'Sparks,' she showed how Tinder works for her and other people.

(Photo : Screenshot from: Sharon Stone Instagram Account) Matched!: Top 7 Celebrities That Tried (Or Still Trying) Online Dating Apps And How You Can Join Them

If you believe that age is just a number, so was Sharon Stone-- one of the sexiest women in the world. Recently, Stone reported dating app Bumble for blocking her account since it was reported as a fake profile by lots of other Bumble users. Thankfully, Bumble immediately returns Stone's account on the dating app, as of now.

(Photo : Screenshot from: Chace Crawford Instagram Account) Matched!: Top 7 Celebrities That Tried (Or Still Trying) Online Dating Apps And How You Can Join Them

It is lucky to be alive as Gossip Girl actor Chace Crawford admitted to UK's Now Magazine that he's into using various dating apps. He even shared that he had "a bunch of different accounts that no one knows about" for him to enjoy his private dating game online.

(Photo : Screenshot from: Mariah Carey Instagram Account) Matched!: Top 7 Celebrities That Tried (Or Still Trying) Online Dating Apps And How You Can Join Them

All Mariah wants for Christmas is a special someone-- before Bryan Tanaka entered the picture. Mariah revealed that she was into online dating-- specifically Match.com-- on her 'Infinity' music video wherein she browses pictures while relaxing on her couch.

(Photo : Screenshot from: Orlando Bloom Instagram Account) Matched!: Top 7 Celebrities That Tried (Or Still Trying) Online Dating Apps And How You Can Join Them

Another missed opportunity, ladies! Orlando Bloom was said to be a fan of online dating apps back then -- before Katy Perry got his attention. People's website also reported that he even made a fake Facebook profile (featuring his friend's photo) to meet people without them realizing he's the Orlando Bloom.

(Photo : Screenshot from: Martha Stewart Instagram Account) Matched!: Top 7 Celebrities That Tried (Or Still Trying) Online Dating Apps And How You Can Join Them

Who said Martha Stewart can't pull off dating apps? Well, apparently, she has been doing online dating apps since 2013. If you are a member of Match.com, you might spot Martha's profile there-- why not give it a shot?

(Photo : Screenshot from: Charlize Theron Instagram Account) Matched!: Top 7 Celebrities That Tried (Or Still Trying) Online Dating Apps And How You Can Join Them

Again, relax fellas. Charlize Theron might have been slightly interested in dating apps, but she did not successfully continue this dating process, although it is nice to know that Charlize thinks about using one that was mainly advised by her friends.

2018 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.

See the rest here:

Matched!: Top 7 Celebrities That Tried (Or Still Trying) Online Dating Apps And How You Can Join Them - Tech Times

BTS is about to carry out on Dick Clarks New Years Rockin Eve on Dec. 31. Whereas the BTS members are presently in New York Metropolis, the group held a VLIVE earlier this morning to countdown to 2020 in South Korea. Throughout the VLIVE, the BTS members revealed their New Years resolutions.

Only a few hours after V held a VLIVE for his birthday, the members of BTS held a VLIVE as a bunch. The group titled the livestream Blissful New Yr with ARMY!

As the group waited for the countdown, they talked about how they stored up with their 2019 resolutions and the way they labored arduous this 12 months. The group additionally talked about the previous decade, and RM identified 2010 was the begin of BTS. Whereas the group didnt debut till 2013, RM first joined Huge Hit Leisure in 2010.

After counting all the way down to the New Yr for VLIVE viewers, BTS broke right into a dialogue about their New Years resolutions. In accordance with Suga, his subsequent mixtape was supposed to return out in 2019, however as a consequence of a scheduling battle it didnt occur. As a result of the follow-up to Agust D didnt come out on time, Suga additionally mentioned the lyrics would possibly want to alter.

Suga additionally mentioned he wished to give attention to studying English. Like Suga, Jungkook mentioned one in every of his resolutions was to be taught English. He additionally desires to give attention to staying wholesome and be taught to play the guitar. It was identified to Jungkook that his decision from the previous few years has been to launch a mixtape. Nevertheless, due to his perfectionist nature he has not but.

V desires to learn to play the piano. His different New Years decision is to search out therapeutic actions. He instructed the BTS members he doesnt have a selected objective or exercise in thoughts, he simply desires to search out therapeutic issues. J-Hope mentioned his resolutions had been to remain wholesome, write a relaxing music, and observe self-care. The BTS rapper additionally desires to be wholesome sufficient that his getting old doesnt present.

Jimin instructed the BTS members his New Years decision is to shed some pounds so he might be higher at dancing. Like lots of the members, he additionally desires to give attention to staying wholesome. In 2020, RM desires to give attention to figuring out diligently and to learn a number of books. Jins New Years resolutions are to be taught piano and get extra trip days from Huge Hit Leisure.

BTS is actually the discuss of the U.S. as everybody anxiously awaits their Dick Clarks New Years Rockin Eve efficiency. Since Dec. 30, followers have packed into Occasions Sq. and it appears all of the medias consideration is on BTS and their followers.

Ryan Seacrest, the host of Dick Clarks New Years Rockin Eve, stopped by BTSs rehearsal for the New Years present.

Legends on the brink of take over Occasions Sq. @BTS_twt#BTSArmy, Seacrest tweeted about the group.

Read more here:

What Are the BTS Members' New Year's Resolutions? - The Bulletin Time

December 29, 2019, 10:36 AM When is the best time to reset the left hand, that is, back to the specifications set at the factory? Later than youd think. Lets put the idea of relaxation in perspective. Its not the highest priority of a violinist, whos simply trying to play the right note at the right time.

After shifting, vibrating, and double stops, theres going to be collateral damage. It takes an agile, ready-for-anything mind to juggle ten balls in the air while feeding the technique beasts, let alone adding five balls just to deal with relaxation. I wish I could simply will my hand to relax, but nothing is ever that straight-forward on the violin. (Talking about it, however, is relatively easy to do. Its fun to explain what goes on when you play the violin. Talk, not action, takes all the pressure off.)

The left hand is inherently more complex than the right hand, since the different finger lengths and varying hand positions arent issues in the right hand. Since theres so much to concentrate on, I learned to be satisfied with just folding in, here and there, small feelings of relaxation. For something I have fought so hard to accomplish, even a few moments of supple, soft, and springy muscles are sweet.

When I work on relaxing, two frustrating side-effects rear their ugly heads. First, I no longer recognize my playing, and second, when I concentrate on one thing, something else goes wrong. Now, how do you mount a strategy against those kinds of obstacles? Remain patient, practice a few measures at a time while observing as many details as possible, and never lose sight of your beautiful sound and phrase contour.

A Truly Relaxed Left Hand

After decades of feeling painful pressure points of fingers against wood, hand positions that teeter over like the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and criminally negligent fourth finger extensions, I feel confident that I can describe what complete relaxation feels like. There is no pressure between the thumb and the fingers. Every new note creates a new hand position, one that is well-balanced and has no fingers intertwined with each other.

Our left hand has many jobs to do, and its ecosystem includes constantly changing conditions, plus pinpoint intonation and vibrato. The odds of numerous flaws and potential paralysis far outweigh the chance of having complete relaxation. The clever violinist finds common-sense ways to manage various movements which, by the laws of physics gone awry, have a tendency to implode and do the opposite of what theyre supposed to do.

Dont Get Stuck

The thumb is often inclined to do more than it needs to do, beyond merely supporting the neck. Instead it regularly presses up and assumes a hard, rigid intrusion. When it goes up and stays firm against the downward moving finger, a vice-like grip happens and seeks, often in vain, to find some relief. What goes up should go down, but thats often the last thing the thumb is capable of doing. The actual target on the fingerboard should simple be a momentary station on the fingers path, not a place to get stuck on. Impact is not a word I associate with finger placement. Picture yourself fingertapping on an iPhone, subtract several degrees of intensity, and you have the right amount of no-impact gravity for the finger action. Put the energy youve saved to good use! Apply it to the bow, for starters.

Vibrato often adds unnecessary intensity to the already unwanted hard pressure. To alleviate the developing pain, mentally focus on the specific area. Instruct your thumb to release the pressure. Remind yourself that the pressure wasnt necessary to begin with. It was just a very bad habit, built up over decades. Removal of even a tiny target of pain is a victory, because youve kept your individualistic hand position. The first target of removal is the hardest. The rest will be easier.

A Philosophy of Being Wary of What Could Go Wrong

Stating the obvious, eliminating bad habits, one step at a time, is a successful approach to steady growth on the violin. Stating it is one thing, achieving it is another. When it comes to removing pain and hardness, the reward is well-worth the effort. There are plenty of panaceas, such as lower the thumb, in order to produce less tension, or play more on the fingerpads than the fingertips, but they may serve more as a diversion than as a way to focus the mind. Ive never found a pedagogical theory, or gimmick, which did the job of making me listen to myself and observe how much I was falling short of what I wanted to hear coming out of my violin.

My playing was limited by my ability or inability to predict and prepare for the obstacles presented by the violins physics. With hindsight its obvious that the four planes of the strings were laughing at my repeated attempts to ignore them. The truth eventually came after years of suspecting I was barking up the wrong tree. One teacher, whom I had never met, presented the cold hard facts in such a way that I could feel my brain being re-wired as I read The Science of Violin Playing by Raphael Bronstein. I was the kind of player that needed the direct approach of avoiding the potholes of the fingerboard. Dont tell me what to do; tell me what not to do.

Raphael Bronstein and the Terrain of the Left Hand

It started with the idea that four fingers in one position on one string will feel different than on the other strings. I had been transferring my muscle memory from one string to the next without making fresh calibrations, hoping for success with as little thinking as possible. The esteemed violin professor from Manhattan School of Music and Hartt College, Bronstein, painted the picture of a left-hand and fingerboard apparatus that was three-dimensional, full of altitudes and variable conditions. He called it visual intonation. He was a student of Leopold Auer and a member of the Glazunov Quartet. His students included Elmar Oliveira, Martha Strongin Katz, and Phillip Ruder.

You might also like:

Read more from the original source:

Untangling the Violinist's Left Hand: How to Ease the Pressure and Relax - Violinist.com

Many of us have our own website lists for relaxing music that we use to calm the mind and that can give us a good inner balance. There are moments when we help serotonin to reduce stress and relieve physical discomfort, tension and worry. All thanks to the very economical analgesics that are always within our reach.

It is not accidental. The impact that music has on our minds is great, which is also characterized by a more even frequency or relaxation that creates high luxury conditions in us. For example, there is a well-known theory that has not been empirically validated and that speaks about the benefits it can offer our bodies at a frequency of 528 Hz.

Which is called Solfeggio frequency, originally used in Gregorian chants? Healing sounds or not, what we know is that they can make a difference in our body and mind as if an invisible force would restart us and in this way tune us more intensely to our being. Relaxing music is a direct invitation to luxury and it is worthwhile to learn more about this art with this highly recommended practice.

Every three months, the American Psychological Association (APA) publishes a journal of musicology that updates all studies on the subject. Today we have a lot of experiments, research and theoretical work that are based on or related to empirical research and show us what we really felt in our own way: Music, especially relaxation, has great cognitive, emotional and biological advantages.

Lets take a look at some of these very positive qualities of our wellbeing.

When we write the word relaxing music on our internet search engine, we get thousands of results. But does this style of music have a significant impact on our minds to relieve tension? The answer is yes. More than a few years ago, a group of Mind Lab scientists specializing in neuroscientific experiments came to the conclusion that the song that lowers heart rate, breathing and brain activity was the song Weightlessness by the British band Marconi Union is.

The sound of the rain trembles in a window, a river flows and whispers relentlessly to the ocean hitting the reef, the influence of birds, the walled nature sounds have healing power in our being. It is like a return to our origin, the escape route and the canal, which centers and liberates us at the same time.

So much so that the BirdLife Focus Natura did some exciting work a few years ago, showing that soft music that includes natural and animal sounds improves the focus and performance of children with ADHD (attention deficit disorder with or without hyperactivity).

Listening to calm music during the postoperative period improves patient recovery and makes those moments a little more pleasant and less stressful. This information may seem striking, but as explained in an article in todays psychology, it is known that this type of music reduces pain, provides us with endorphins, and even strengthens our immune response.

Many of us do this more than once. Lie down on the bed, switch off the lights and enjoy this ideal dimension of music, comfort and warmth, where harmony and balance prevail. If we listen to soft music at night with headphones, we prefer to rest and it helps us alleviate fears and alleviate rumors of strenuous thoughts that often cause fear.

Our brain loves music. For example, it is known that playing a musical instrument promotes brain development from a very young age and even improves athletic performance. Relaxing in music is like the vitamin of our neurons. It puts us in a state of mind that improves our thinking and space-time capabilities.

The bond between our hemispheres has also been improved, which favors the fastest communication between our neurons.

We talked in advance about the benefits of listening to relaxing music during the postoperative period. If so, it is because of the health effects it has on our heart: it lowers blood pressure and heart rate, the pulse becomes more regular and rhythmic, the arrhythmia is reduced and the patient feels calm.

If theres one type of hormone that we really like, its endorphins and serotonin. They also act as neurotransmitters. These are biological compounds that can awaken our well-being, our joy and our vital drive. Although each of us has our own taste in music and we sometimes imagine more energetic, lively and stimulating melodies, we cannot neglect the benefits that pleasant music brings to the brain.

This melodic harmony, these ideal frequencies, is the ecological and natural background for the release of serotonin and endorphins. So you can search for a moment all day long to give us a little session on this type of analgesic.

This data can surprise us. Something as simple as listening to relaxing music while we eat can help us in an informed, balanced, and healthy way. It has a lot to do with mind and reason. It is, so to speak, a way to focus more on what we are doing to slow down, eat more slowly and saturate beforehand, to recognize the intensity of each taste and the joy of this process, full of nuances and sensations is that its food.

So dont hesitate to dine with good relaxation music one day.

Go here to read the rest:

Light up your mood by listening to songs in MP3 - The Hear UP

BIG SHOWS

BROOKS MAGUIRES ACOUSTIC SONGWRITER SHOWCASE Thu. Jan 2. Summoning his Gulf Coast roots with that southern touch of gospel, rock, blues, and country, Brooks showcases his musical versatility in his performance of original Nashville releases along with a wide variety of music genres in selected classic hits while weaving his engaging wit/stories that captivate audiences! Free. 6:30pm. Mulligans on the Blue, (100 Kaukahi St., Wailea); 808-874-1131; Mulligansontheblue.com

DJ DAVID KAI Thu. Jan 2. From Australia and Germany, DJ David Kai plays on Mauis North Shore. Lounge vibes. 5pm. Paia Bay Coffee and Bar, (115 Hana Hwy.); 808-579-3111; Paiabaycoffee.com

TOMMY EMMANUEL, CGP Thu. Jan 2. Guitarist Tommy Emmanuel will be performing live in the Castle Theater. An Australian musician known for his skills as an accomplished finger-style guitarist. Youll hear him expertly handle the melody while supporting the chords and the bass all at once. Joining him on stage will be special guests Frank Vignola and Vinnie Raniolo. Tickets: $25.50-$55.50. 7:30pm. Maui Arts and Cultural Center, (1 Cameron Way, Kahului); 808-242-SHOW; Mauiarts.org

WAILUKU FIRST FRIDAY Fri. Jan 3. Showcasing dozens of artisans, handmade crafters and food vendors, pop-ups, good eats, and more. 6-9pm. Mauifridays.com

ASTRID KULJANIC AND MAT MUNTZ DUO CONCERT Fri. Jan 3. Eclectic New York based duo originally from Croatia and Seattle playing a wide variety of jazz and world music (Croatian, Balkan, Brazilian, Italian, Jewish and more) Astri Kuljanic, http://www.astrid-music.com. Renowned for her complex musical sensibility and supple sound, Croatian vocalist Astrid Kuljanic has immersed herself in an eclectic variety of musical traditions from around the world. Her journey from the Balkans to New York has allowed her to absorb Jazz, Brazilian, and Indian music and acquire an advanced knowledge of performing with electronics using Ableton Live. $20. 7pm. Maui Coffee Attic, (59 Kanoa St, Wailuku); 808-250-9555; Mauicoffeeattic.com

FRIDAY DJ SESSIONS: ALOHA PANTS Fri. Jan 3. This week features music and pants by Liam Grist. Lounge vibes. 5pm. Paia Bay Coffee and Bar, (115 Hana Hwy.); 808-579-3111; Paiabaycoffee.com

HENRY KAPONO Fri. Jan 3. A household name throughout Hawaii and the Pacific, Henry Kapono touches the soul with the simple honesty of his lyrics and music that haunts you long after he leaves the stage. Stop in for Aloha Hour and enjoy some upbeat, rock-infused Hawaiian music. 3pm. Dukes Beach House, (130 Kai Malina Pkwy., Lahaina); 808-662-2900; Dukesmaui.com

KAINA KOUNTRY Fri. Jan 3. Come listen and dance to your favorite country tunes with Kaina Kountry featuring Bear, Davy Boy, G-Man, and Ray Ray. Order your favorite food and adult beverages. $5 cover. 6:30pm. Mulligans on the Blue, (100 Kaukahi St., Wailea); 808-874-1131; Mulligansontheblue.com

LATIN NIGHTS Fri. Jan 3. Enjoy a night of tropical latin dance music with Dr.Nat & Rio Ritmo. Get your hips swinging to salsa, bachata, samba, and some Latin pop. The evening will start with an intro level salsa lesson. BYOB event. Cover: $10/adults, $5/under 18. Lesson: 8-8:30pm, Music: 8:30-11pm. Heritage Hall, (401 Baldwin Ave., Paia).

STELLAR Fri. Jan 3. Los Angeles and Las Vegas House is coming to Maui, baby! Come join the party with Stellar, and Maui House Collective Poundtown. 9pm. The Dirty Monkey, (844 Front St., Lahaina); 808-419-6268; Thedirtymonkey.com

OLD DOMINION Fri. Jan 3. CMA and two-time ACM Vocal Group of the Year, Old Dominion, has emerged as one of the hottest bands in country music, fusing clever lyrics and an infectious sound.Not your average country band, blending old-fashioned country charm, lyrical wit, and rock n roll grit into radio-friendly, hook-heavy pop nuggets. Tickets: $45/GA; $55, $65, $85, $125 (Gold Circle). 6:45pm. Maui Arts and Cultural Center, (One Cameron Way, Kahului); 808-242-SHOW; Mauiarts.org

VIBE LIVE! WITH DANYEL ALANA Fri. Jan 3. Live music, craft cocktails, and good vibes, featuring Danyel Alana! No cover. 9pm. VIBE Maui, (1913 S Kihei Rd.); 808-891-1011; Vibebarmaui.com

HOW THE GROUCH STOLE CHRISTMURS Fri. Jan 3. The Grouch & Murs rocking with DJ Fresh to kick off 2020!!! $25. Casanova, (1188 Makawao Ave.); Casanovamaui.com

BOBBY MODEROW Sat. Jan 4. Bobby Moderow is a founding member of the six-time Na Hoku Hanohano Award-winning group Maunalua. With his Maunalua brothers, Moderow has performed all over the world, including the inaugural luau for President Obama and the 150th anniversary of the Smithsonian now he will perform for you! 3pm. Dukes Beach House, (130 Kai Malina Pkwy., Lahaina); 808-662-2900; Dukesmaui.com

CLUB NIGHT W/ DJ ILLZ Sat. Jan 4. Club night with DJ Illz, playing all your favorites: dance, Top 40, hip-hop, and more. 21+. $10. 9pm. The Dirty Monkey, (844 Front St., Lahaina); 808-419-6268; Thedirtymonkey.com

TFLATZ Sat. Jan 4. Cruz on down to Mauis North Shore for a night of live music by T-Flatz. $10 cover. 9:30pm. Charleys Restaurant and Saloon, (142 Hana Hwy., Paia); 808-579-8085; Charleysmaui.com

WILLIE K & FRIENDS BLUESFEST Sat. Jan 4. Heres an eclectic and electrifying evening of outstanding music! A living legend on the Hawaii music scene, Willie K continues to push the envelope. The night will feature Gretchen Rhodes, John Akapo, and the Deborah Vial Band with special appearances by Alice Cooper, Dave Mason and more. Tickets: General admission: $40, $10/keiki (2-12). Assigned seats: $65, $85. VIP: $250. 6pm. Maui Arts and Cultural Center, (One Cameron Way, Kahului); 808-242-SHOW; Mauiarts.org

KAIONA Sun. Jan 5. Kaiona is a versatile, contemporary Hawaiian duo featuring Jasmine Kaleihiwa Dunlap and her brother Paul Dunlap Jr. Jasmine was awarded the prestigious Miss Aloha Hula at the 2015 Merry Monarch Festival. They have been a staple at Dukes Waikiki for years and Dukes Maui is excited to showcase their lively and entertaining musical style. 3pm. Dukes Beach House, (130 Kai Malina Pkwy., Lahaina); 808-662-2900; Dukesmaui.com

MANAO UPCOUNTRY SUNDAY Sun. Jan 5. This months benefit showcase will feature Kaina Kountry with their classic country and rock, Upcountry style! Also on the bill will be Maverick performing original and classic rock, folk, and blues. Opening will be Von Linne Express, a talented ensemble performing classic and contemporary rock n roll! $10 at the door goes entirely to benefit Manao Radio. 2pm. Casanova Italian Restaurant, (1188 Makawao Ave.); Manaoradio.com

MURRAY THORNE SOLO Sun. Jan 5. Come out for a lively show from Murray Thorne, lead singer of the Celtic Tigers Band. Hell be playing a variety of your favorite Irish, rock tunes. 7pm. Mulligans on the Blue, (100 Kaukahi St., Wailea); Mulligansontheblue.com

DYLAN KEAWE Wed. Jan 8. Mauis own solo artist will present a variety of island, pop, soul, R&B, folk, and reggae for a great family night. 5:30pm. Mulligans on the Blue, (100 Kaukahi St., Wailea); 808-874-1131; Mulligansontheblue.com

STAGE SHOWS

OUT OF ORDER AUDITIONS Auditions for the ProArts Production of Out of Order, a comedy by Ray Cooney, and directed by David Belew will take place on Jan. 13 and 14 from 6-9pm. Callbacks are Jan. 15. Show is in March. 18+ only. Sign up online. Pro-Arts Playhouse, (1280 S Kihei Rd.); 808-463-6550; Proartsmaui.com

WARREN AND ANNABELLES MAGIC SHOW Daily. Warren Gibson, the countrys premier sleight-of-hand magician, treats you to the best close-up magic and comedy show while resident ghost Annabelle entertains you. $69-$115. 5pm. Warren and Annabelles, (900 Front St., Lahaina); 808-667-6244; Warrenandannabelles.com

KIKA KILA WITH GERRY VALDRIZ AND FRIENDS Thu. Jan 2. Lap steel guitar at its best, Gerry Valdriz is joined by friends to perform in a living room setting. Enjoy Hawaiian music and occasional dancers. 11am. Maui Coffee Attic, (59 Kanoa St., Wailuku); 808-250-9555; Mauicoffeeattic.com

SALSA DANCING WITH BARBARA & ERNESTO Thu. Jan 2. 8pm. Threes Bar and Grill, (1945 S Kihei Rd.); 808-879-3133; Threesbarandgrill.com

LIVE BAND KARAOKE Fri. Jan 3. Hosted by Trip Wilson, see some of the baddest musicians on Maui as they play and you sing your favorite songs. No cover! 9:30pm. Charleys Restaurant and Saloon, (142 Hana Hwy., Paia); 808-579-8085; Charleysmaui.com

FAMILY MAGIC WITH HOLDEN MOWAT Sat. Jan 4. Join Maui magician Holden Mowat with his interactive, all-ages magic-comedy performance on the malls center stage. 12pm. Lahaina Cannery Mall, (1221 Honoapiilani Hwy.); 808-661-5304; Lahainacannerymall.com

CHARLEYS LIVE BAND OPEN MIC & JAM Mon. Jan 6. Hosted by Matt Del Olmo, step on stage and show the crowd what you got. No cover! 7pm. Charleys Restaurant and Saloon, (142 Hana Hwy., Paia); 808-579-8085; Charleysmaui.com

LIP SYNC BATTLE Mon. Jan 6. You know how to bust a move! Get on the mic in this tournament style Lip Sync Battle and win some prizes.You choose the tune and let your lips and hips do the rest. Win cash and swag while you enjoy drink specials and laughs. Hosted by Brant Quick. Sign up at 9:30pm. 10pm. Down the Hatch, (658 Front St., Lahaina); 808-661-4900; Dthmaui.com

BRENTON KEITH MAGIC SHOW Tue. Jan 7. Master of magic Brenton Keith will amuse and amaze the audience with his bag-o-tricks. His high-energy fun comedy and magic show is enjoyed by all ages. $5. 6:30pm. Mulligans on the Blue, (100 Kaukahi St., Wailea); 808-874-1131; Mulligansontheblue.com

OPEN COMEDY NIGHT Tue. Jan 7. Are you funny? Or think you are funny? Well you just might be the next top comedian. Presented by Maui Comedy LIVE there will also be food and drink specials. No cover charge! 9pm. Mulligans on the Blue, (100 Kaukahi St., Wailea); 808-874-1131; Mulligansontheblue.com

MALAS GOT TALENT KARAOKE NIGHT Wed. Jan 8. Alright all your Karaoke lovers join Maui Karaoke host David Fincher. All are welcome & all singing levels encouraged to join in the fun! Over 35,000 songs to choose from. First come first serve! Late Night Happy Hour. 10pm. Mala Ocean Tavern, (1307 Front Street, Lahaina); 808-667-9394; Malatavern.com

MAUI FOODIE

DRUMS OF THE PACIFIC LUAU Daily. Experience a journey throughout the islands of Polynesia. Hear the sound of the conch, the beating of drums, and the echoes of Hawaiian chant. Enjoy authentic dance and music of Polynesia, and an unforgettable fire-knife dance finale. Indulge in the flavors of Native Hawaiian cuisine, complete with a traditional imu ceremony. Hyatt Regency Maui, (200 Nohea Kai Dr., Kaanapali); 808-667-4727; Drumsofthepacificmaui.com

CROWN ROYAL THURSDAYS WITH DJ BIG MIKE Thu. Jan 2. All the jams you like plus $6 Patron shots from 10pm-midnight and $5 Crown Royal until close. 10pm. South Shore Tiki Lounge, (1913 S Kihei Rd.); 808-874-6444; Southshoretiki.com

CRAB LEGS & PRIME RIB BUFFET WITH MUSIC BY RON KUALAAU Fri. Jan 3. Enjoy a scrumptious buffet featuring crab legs and prime rib while listening to Mauis favorite musician, Ron Kualaau. Rons velvety voice and melodic guitar provides a beautiful ambiance featuring Hawaiian and contemporary music. $49.95/adults; half-off/keiki (10 and younger). Reservations are highly recommended. 5pm. Kahili Terrace, (2500 Honoapiilani Hwy., Waikapu); 808-242-6000; Kahiliterrace.com

AN INTERACTIVE DINING EXPERIENCE Sat. Jan 4. Dive into a multi-course menu of dishes inspired by chefs personal stories, told through Mauis seasonal ingredients. A combination of high-quality ingredients paired with creative minds and innovative techniques results in a unique culinary experience. Advance ticket purchase required. $150. 6pm. Maui Chefs Table, (1670 Honoapiilani Hwy., Waikapu); 808-270-0333; Mauichefstable.com

CHEFS COUNTER Sat. Jan 4. Gather to eat, drink, and spend time together at this neighborhood eatery. Cost: $65 four courses, includes as amuse bouche; $30 additional for three libation tasting pairings. Two seating times: 5:30pm and 7:30pm. Fond Maui, (5095 Napilihau St., Lahaina); 808-856-0225; Fondmaui.com

DUKES WEEKEND BRUNCH Sat. Jan 4 & Sun. Jan 5. Spend a relaxing morning with beautiful views of the Pacific and yummy breakfast options, accompanied by live Hawaiian music by Kealii Lum on Saturday and Derick Sebastian on Sunday. 11am-1pm. Dukes Beach House, (130 Kai Malina Pkwy., Lahaina); 808-662-2900; Dukesmaui.com

LUNCH ON THE ROOF Sat. Jan 4 & Sun. Jan 5. Spend an afternoon on the roof for lunch with favorites like the Greek-style lamb sliders and the Lahaina burger. Guests will be treated to live music by Anthony Pfluke on Saturday and Koa of Inna Vision on Sunday. 11am. Fleetwoods on Front St., (744 Front St., Lahaina); 808-669-6425; Fleetwoodsonfrontst.com

NAPILI FARMERS MARKET Sat. Jan 4 & Wed. Jan 8. Come get it: Maui-grown vegetables and tropical fruits, local organic bakery stand with gluten-free items. Maui Zinger juices, sugar cane juice, handcrafted sauerkrauts and mustards, macadamia nut spreads, nut butters and salad dressings. Plus beautiful handcrafted jewelry, eco-friendly products, reef safe sunscreen, essential oil products, hand crafted dolls and unique handcrafted items. Free samples and live Hawaiian style music. 8am. Napili Farmers Market, (3636 L Honoapiilani Rd.); 808-633-5060; Napilifarmersmarket.com

MAUI BREW B-QUE W/GUIDANCE BAND Sun. Jan 5. Relax on the lanai for a Maui BrewB-Que. Enjoy the afternoon with live music by Guidance Band, yummy bbq options like beer can chicken, and locally made beer of course! 3:30pm. Maui Brewing Co., (605 Lipoa Pkwy., Kihei); 808-213-BEER; Mauibrewingco.com

MAUI SUNDAY MARKET Sun. Jan 5. Featuring live entertainment, food trucks, island vendors, family bingo, and activities showcasing the local community and Hawaiis cultural traditions. 4pm. Kahului Shopping Center, (65 W Kaahumanu Ave, Kahului); 888-948-MFTC; Info@mauifoodtechnology.org; Mauisundaymarket.com

NORTH SHORE ACOUSTIC BRUNCH Sun. Jan 5. Enjoy great food to go along with old favorites as Steve Somers and John Gerry perform unplugged. 9am. Paia Bay Coffee and Bar, (115 Hana Hwy.); 808-579-3111; Paiabaycoffee.com

SUNDAY BRUNCH BUFFET WITH MUSIC Sun. Jan 5. Hawaiian, contemporary, falsetto singer Kaniala Masoe, sets a beautiful ambiance of Hawaiian music while you enjoy breakfast overlooking Haleakala and both the north and south shores of Maui. Brunch offers a full buffet featuring roast beef carving, create-your-own omelet stations and more. Reservations are highly recommended. $25/adults; half-off/keiki (10 and younger). 11am. Kahili Terrace, (2500 Honoapiilani Hwy., Waikapu); 808-242-6000; Kahiliterrace.com

COCKTAILS W/ KENDALL Mon. Jan 6. Enjoy specially priced wines and spirits while listening to the incredible sounds of Kendall Dean. This event benefits local charities through the Nabavi Legacy Fund. Beneficiaries include BookTrust, Grow Some Good/Maui School Garden Network, Kids and Teens Cook with Heart, and Maui Food Innovation Center. 6pm. The Hideaway at Montage Kapalua Bay, (1 Bay Dr.); 808-662-6690; Thehideawayatkapaluabay.com

LEGENDS OF KAANAPALI LUAU Mon. Jan 6. When you hear the sound of the pu, its time for the festivities. A scrumptious feast of roasted puaa over kiawe, and kalo beneath the largest tiki in the Hawaiian Islands, along with the exciting and dangerous Fire Walk for an enchanting experience. 5pm. Kaanapali Beach Hotel, (2525 Kaanapali Pkwy.); 808-667-0128; Kbhmaui.com

MEZCAL MONDAY Mon. Jan 6. Dancing, drinking FUN! Unique Mezcal cocktail creation featuring fresh juices. 5pm. VIBE Maui, (1913 S Kihei Rd.); 808-891-1011; vibebarmaui.com

BEERCADE TUESDAYS WITH DJ SALVO Tue. Jan 7. Reggae, club hits, old school, and what? Nintendo, FUN! Drink specials are $6 Patron shots until midnight and $3 Coronas and Sauza shots, and $4 Sauza Margaritas until close. 10pm. South Shore Tiki Lounge, (1913 S Kihei Rd.); 808-874-6444; Southshoretiki.com

JOSE CUERVO TACO TUESDAY Tue. Jan 7. All day get chicken or beef tacos for $3 and get $2 off traditional margaritas! The Dirty Monkey, (844 Front St., Lahaina); 808-419-6268; Thedirtymonkey.com

JUKEBOX TUESDAYS Tue. Jan 7. Request whatever you want and dance to your favorite music and set the mood for Tuesday night. Plus a $6 menu includes lava lava shrimp, mermaid fries, chicken or koki quesadilla, and DTH speciality shots! 9pm. Down the Hatch, (658 Front St., Lahaina); 808-661-4900; DTHmaui.com

TACO TUESDAYS Tue. Jan 7. Stop by and get $2 off tacos, nachos, tequila, and Corona. 3-8pm. Paia Bay Coffee and Bar, (115 Hana Hwy.); 808-579-3111; Paiabaycoffee.com

WILLIE K DINNER SHOW Wed. Jan 8. The No. 1 dinner and show package of Willie K. Choose from Willie Ks four-course dinner or Mulligans delectable and savory menu. Willie K merchandise will also be available during and after his show. Reservations required. Call 808-250-8288. 6:30pm. Mulligans on the Blue, (100 Kaukahi St., Wailea).

ART SCENE

CALL TO ARTISTS 2020 ANNUAL JURIED EXHIBITION With no theme, this exhibition challenges artists to submit their best work created within the past two years. Receiving Day: Jan. 7, 9am-4pm. Opening Reception: Jan. 17, 5-7pm. Exhibit: Jan. 17-Feb. 21. Hui Noeau Visual Arts Center, (2841 Baldwin Ave., Makawao); 808-572-6560; Huinoeau.com

DANCING FEATHERS EXHIBIT Until Jan 6. Ellen Levinsky will feature Dancing Feathers, a grouping of her most recent art consisting of colorful parrot, peacock, pheasant, and other natural bird feathers. Ellen will be demonstrating on Tuesday, from 10am-4pm. Works will be on display 9am-5pm. Lahaina Arts Society, (648 Wharf St.); 808-385-4726; Lahainaarts.com

BLACK AND WHITE AFFAIR EXHIBIT Until Feb 4. Mark De Colibus show will demonstrate one of his many artistic skills-creating in black and white themes. He works in charcoal, pen and ink, scratch board, pencil, and has developed a series of five Zebras entitled Zebra Reflections which will be part of the show; all done with pastels and prisma colors. 9am-5pm/daily. Lahaina Arts Society, (648 Wharf St., Lahaina); 808-385-4726; Lahainaarts.com

THE ART OF WEAVING Thu. Jan 2. Learn about this essential part of Polynesian life and try your hand at weaving by the Whale Pavilion. Free. 11:30am. Whalers Village, (2435 Kaanapali Pkwy.).

JOHN ENSIGN AS ARTIST IN RESIDENCE Thu. Jan 2. Acrylic painter and landscape artist John Ensign has hiked the valleys and coasts to create vivid expressions of this tropical paradise and its people. See John work on a new painting while in the gallery. 11am. Maui Hands, (1169 Makawao Ave.); 808-579-9245; Mauihands.com

LIVE PAINTING WITH JOHN THE ARTIST WOODRUFF Thu. Jan 2, Tue. Jan 7, Wed. Jan 8. From dogs playing poker to Maui polo ponies, vintage cars, portraits: Stop by for an art day. 10am. Charleys Restaurant and Saloon, (142 Hana Hwy., Paia); 808-579-8085; Charleysmaui.com

SANDRA GREENBERG AS ARTIST IN RESIDENCE Fri. Jan 3. Photographer Sandra Greenberg collection of photographs from around the Hawaiian Islands will be on display. Stop by a view her wonders of nature, beauty and movement. 5pm. Maui Hands, (612 Front St., Lahaina); 808-667-9898; Mauihands.com

SMALL TOWN * BIG ART Fri. Jan 3. See the first public artwork of 2020, Hinai by award-winning Maui-based sculptor Jessica Bodner. A blessing an unveiling will take place during Wailuku First Friday. 6-9pm. Kipuka Square, (Market St.)., Smalltownbig.org

STACY VOSBERG AS ARTIST IN RESIDENCE Sat. Jan 4. Colorful paintings, drawings and murals. Come meet Stacy, see a collection of her pieces, and watch her paint in person! 11am. Maui Hands, (84 Hana Hwy., Paia); 808-572-2008; Mauihands.com

UKELE WORKSHOP Sat. Jan 4. Make your very own ukele in this hands-on workshop with Lance Genson Mahi La Pierre. Using bamboo, students will fashion the Hawaiian musical bow, the ukele (approximately 20 inches length). The ukele is the only indigenous stringed instrument of Hawaii and is used to accompany hula and mele, and for hoipoipo, or love talk, between lovers. Mahi will also share and teach participants a traditional mele ukele. 12pm. Hui Noeau Visual Arts Center, (2841 Baldwin Ave., Makawao); 808-572-6560; Huinoeau.com

LAHAINA ARTS SOCIETY ART FESTIVAL Sat. Jan 4 & Sun. Jan 5. Come out and talk story with Lahaina Arts Society artists, and view and purchase paintings, glass art, ceramics, photography, woodcarving, jewelry, and more! 9am-5pm/both days. 9am. Lahaina Cannery Mall, (1221 Honoapiilani Hwy.); Lahainaarts.com

ARIEL QUIROZ AS ARTIST IN RESIDENCE Sun. Jan 5. Live painting Is the new wedding trend. Portrait artist Ariel Quiroz can portray you or your loved ones from a picture or at your wedding in a masterpiece of Fine Art. A selection of his original paintings and prints will be on display. 4pm. Maui Hands, (210 Nohea Kai Dr., Kaanapali); 808-667-7997; Mauihands.com

KEIKI O KA AINA GIFTS AND CRAFTS FESTIVAL Sun. Jan 5. Educational fun and games for the youth, free hula lessons, eclectic artisan vendors with made on Maui products. 9am. Campbell Park, (680 Front St., Lahaina).

MAUI GIFT AND CRAFT FAIR Sun. Jan 5. The largest arts and crafts fair with over 50 vendors, featuring jewelry, unique island crafts, fine art, photography, and much more. 9am. Lahaina Gateway Center, (305 Keawe St.).

CULTURAL WORKSHOPS Mon. Jan 6, Tue. Jan 7 & Wed. Jan 8. Hawaiian holiday ornament creations, Cultural Workshops, and shopping opportunities from 14 local Artists. RSVP for times and availability on classes. 12pm. Maui Feather Lei, (56 Central Ave., Wailuku); 808-280-1517.

EXHIBIT: THE WOODWORKERS JOURNEY: CONCEPT TO CREATION Tue. Jan 7, Wed. Jan 8. They invited an exceptional group of 25 artists from Hawaii and the mainland U.S. with distinguished careers in woodworking to each make one new piece for this exhibition. The work may be utilitarian or conceptual in design, with a refined conventional appeal or freeform fusion approach, using wood as the primary material. Come see works. Free admission! 10am. Maui Arts and Cultural Center, (One Cameron Way, Kahului); 808-242-SHOW; Mauiarts.org

ALL ABOUT THE COCONUT Wed. Jan 8. Gain unique insight into one of Hawaiis major staples and experience a husking demonstration by the Whale Pavilion. Free. 11am. Whalers Village, (2435 Kaanapali Pkwy.).

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Thursday, January 2

CHRISTMAS TREE RECYCLING The County of Maui Department of Environmental Management will be offering free Christmas tree recycling for the first time in nearly a decade. All decorations must be removed, including tinsel and other materials, before the trees are accepted for recycling. Curbside pick-up service for Upcountry (Paia, Haiku, Pukalani, Makawao, and Kula) residents from 8am-noon on Jan. 4 with a $10 to $20 donation per tree. Call Richard Thompson at 808-878-2177, by Jan. 3 to schedule a pickup. Christmas trees will also be accepted at the following locations: Kihei Recycling Center, The Makawao Recycling Center, EKO Compost at the Central Maui Landfill, The Olowalu Convenience Center, and Hana Landfill. For more information call the Recycling Hotline at 808-270-7880.

BEACHFEST2020 Registration available until Jan. 23 2020. The 23rd annual Paia Bay Beachfest, is a fun and family-friendly showcase for Mauis young bodyboarders and surfers to boast their style, tricks, and barrel-riding aptitude will take place on Jan. 25 and 26. Competitors will be treated to lunch prepared by youth of the PYCC Paia Bay Cafe program, and will also receive a collectible tee-shirt and sponsor swag-bag. $30 to enter, and $10 per additional division. Paia Youth & Cultural Center, Pyccmaui.org

COOPER FAMILY DANCE WORKSHOP The 11th annual workshop is unique, energetic and most of all FUN.Taught by Sheryl Cooper and daughters Calico and Sonora they are joined by Shauna Goddard and Sophia Oddi. The workshop will include three sections starting with 1.5 hour jazz, 1 hour of contemporary & 1 hour of hip hop (contemporary and hip hop are choreography only). Price: $30/1st class; $45/ whole night. (10% discount for Academy students and early registers). Proceeds benefit the ALICE COOPER SOLID ROCK FOUNDATION & The Rock Teen Center in AZ. Contact: Marnie Meuser at 280-0047 for early registration and more info. Alexander Academy, (870 Haliimaile Rd., Haliimaile);

FREE HULA LESSON Want to learn hula? Drop by the center stage for a free lesson with Jan Kitaguchi 5pm. Lahaina Cannery Mall, (1221 Honoapiilani Hwy.); 808-661-5304; Lahainacannerymall.com

PUB QUIZ Its five rounds of fun with Laura and AL for interactive trivia night. Questions will appear on all six tvs and the answers come with funny pictures broadcast. Following is Power Hour with half-price drinks for anyone in the bar. 7pm. Dog and Duck Irish Pub, (1913 S. Kihei Rd.); 808-875-9669; Dogandduckmaui.com

Friday, January 3

OL KA HANA MENTAL HEALTH SAME DAY COUNSELING SERVICES Offered every Friday until Feb 28, 2020. In need of supportive space for life transitions, feeling anxious or a sense of crisis (non emergency), desiring support to process relationship issues, or wishing to expand your mindfulness practice? EMDR, MCT, Solution-Focused, Somatic Awareness are a few of the models use to help you achieve your goals. Contact between 9-11am. Many insurance plans accepted. 1pm. Mindful Living Group, (1300 N Holopono Dr., Ste. 108, Kihei); 808-206-9371; Mindfullivinggroup.org

MAUI MUSIC MISSION KEIKI UKULELE SHOW 5pm. Lahaina Cannery Mall, (1221 Honoapiilani Hwy.); 808-661-5304; Lahainacannerymall.com

MAUI TOY WORKS TRADING CARD GAME EVENT 5pm. Lahaina Cannery Mall, (1221 Honoapiilani Hwy.); 808-661-5304; Lahainacannerymall.com

VOLUNTEER AT WAIHEE W/ PACIFIC WHALE FOUNDATION A remarkable coastal area rich in Hawaiian history and bird watching. Youll help remove invasive plant species and clear brush and weeds, helping restore critical native wildlife habitat while preserving one of the most significant cultural sites in Hawaii, once populated with two thriving Hawaiian villages, Kapoho and Kapokea. 808-249-8811; Reservations@pacificwhale.org; Pacificwhale.org Free. 8am. Waihee Coastal Dunes and Wetlands Refuge, (Halewaiu Rd., Wailuku);

Saturday, January 4

POLANUI HIU REEF RESTORATION Na Papalimu O Piilani, the reef off Mauis Lahaina coastline at Polanui, was once known for its abundance of fish and edible limu (algae). Now showing signs of significant human impact associated with overharvesting, recreational use, sediment, and poor water quality. Help restoration efforts. 9am. Polanui Hiu HQ, (393 Front Street, Lahaina); 808-276-5593.

SANCTUARY SATURDAYS How many visitor centers let you watch humpback whales breaching right from their doorstep? Whale watchers and nature lovers can hear stories, experience crafts, and learn about humpback whales, nature, and more. 10am. Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary, (726 S Kihei Rd); 808-879-2818; Marinesanctuary.org

VOLUNTEER AT HONOKOWAI VALLEY W/ PACIFIC WHALE FOUNDATION Malama Honokowai and visit the hidden valley. Among Hawaiian archaeological sites, youll learn about Hawaiian history and culture as you help to remove invasive weed plants and possibly plant native species. Bring water, snacks, lunch, sunscreen and bug repellent and wear long-pants, closed-toe shoes, and a t-shirt. 9am. Honokowai Valley, 808-249-8811; Reservations@pacificwhale.org; Pacificwhale.org

HULA HALAU SHOWCASE And, Sun. Jan 5. Enjoy a true Hawaiian hula show from various hula halau, such as Na Kamalii Nani O Lahaina, Halau Hula O Keola Aliiokekai, Te Tiare Patitifa, and Hui Lanakila. Free. 1pm. Lahaina Cannery Mall, (1221 Honoapiilani Hwy.); 808-661-5304; Lahainacannerymall.com

MAUI TOY WORKS TRADING CARD GAME EVENT And, Sun. Jan 5. 2pm. Lahaina Cannery Mall, (1221 Honoapiilani Hwy.); 808-661-5304; Lahainacannerymall.com

OUTDOOR GENTLE YOGA And, Mon. Jan 6 & Wed. Jan 8. Breathe ocean air as you move into postures, with certified yoga instructor Sandy Callender. All levels of experience welcome. Donations appreciated. 8am. Waipuilani Park, (Monkey Pod Tree, Kihei); 808-214-2766.

Sunday, January 5

EMPOWERMENT SELF-DEFENSE Designed BY women FOR women, empowerment self-defense is a comprehensive approach to violence prevention that is taught globally. Emphasis is on awareness, assertiveness skills, and physical strategies. All strategies are easy to learn and highly effective in preventing or ending an assault. This 8-week series will build your confidence and leave you feeling empowered space is limited so sign up today! Sundays 1:30pm 2:30pm January 5 February 23 $125. $25. 1:30pm. Body in Balance Pilates Studio, (142 Kupuohi St., F2, Lahaina); 808661-1116; Clients.mindbodyonline.com

FREE 30-MIN REIKI DEMOS Do you want to learn reiki? Heres a great way to experience reiki if youve never tried it before. Relax and rejuvenate body, mind, and spirit. The Gym Maui, (300 Ohukai, Kihei); 808-891-8108.

GAME NIGHT WITH JON TERNITY Play some of the hilarious games collected, share ideas for future game nights, and enjoy some amazingly crafted cocktails from some of Mauis best bartenders! 8pm. VIBE Maui, (1913 S Kihei Rd.); 808-891-1011; Vibebarmaui.com

JAZZ WITH THE BENOITS Live jazz with husband and wife duo Phil and Angela Benoit. 6:30pm. Pita Paradise, (34 Wailea Gateway); 808-879-7177; Pitaparadisehawaii.com

MAUI MADE SUNDAYS Shop local! Enjoy live island-style performances, while shopping for locally Maui made products and more at Center Court. 9am. Queen Kaahumanu Center, (275 W Kaahumanu Ave., Kahului); 808-856-8109; Queenkaahumanucenter.com

CULTURAL SUNDAYS Bring your ohana to Center Court for a cultural Sunday celebration, featuring a hula show, followed by a Hawaiian Cultural Workshop hosted by Manutea Nui E. 1-3pm. Maui Mall, (70 E Kaahumanu Ave, Kahului); 808-877-8952; Mauimall.com

SEEKING ROOT CIRCLE Connect to your essence and celebrate Spirits creativity, healing, love and truth through YOU! Experience a new kind of Church ie: Circe, ie: Circle led by Nova Hong. Welcoming New Seekers! Nova is an Energy Healer and Life, Love & Spiritual Guide working in partnership with the loving and pure essence of LIFE, the highest spiritual allies, and the gifts of nature to empower women, men and children in these changing times. Be in an INTENTIONAL community, and held in a high vibe energy field! Come to know your body, mind and Soul to support your journey and purpose in life! Free 6pm. 808 Wellness Healing Spa and Yoga Studio, (2439 S. Kihei Rd. Suite 208-A, Kihei); 8088754325.

Read the original post:

MauiTime's Maui Calendar of Events | January 2nd-January 8th, 2019 - Maui Time