The Senate yesterday recognized the renowned island musical group Kalapana in celebration of the band’s 35th anniversary. On the floor were band members Malani Bilyeu, DJ Pratt, and Gaylord Holomalia.

Kalapana emerged as one of the most popular bands on the Hawaiian music scene in the 70s, producing a steady stream of hits. Their 1975 debut album was hailed as one of the best of the mid-70s Hawaiian renaissance. Tracks like “Naturally,” “Nightbird,” “The Hurt,” “You Make It Hard,” and “When the Morning Comes” became household tunes and still enjoy frequent play on contemporary Hawaiian radio. In concert they opened for bands like Earth, Wind and Fire, the Moody Blues, Sly and the Family Stone, and local favorites Cecilo and Kapono.

Musical trends have come and gone, but Kalapana’s many hits have remained Island classics. After 35 years, Kalapana still stands as a symbol of inspiration for contemporary Hawaiian music today.

The Hawai`i Foodbank kicked off their Annual Food Drive yesterday with the 2009 Kick-off Breakfast at the Hilton Hawaiian Village. The Annual Food Drive, Hawai`i Foodbank’s largest fundraising effort, lasts from February 5, 2009 to April 18, 2009, which means there will be plenty of Portuguese bean soup and ice cream around the Capitol.

This year, Senator Michelle Kidani has stepped up to lead our fundraising efforts in joining the fight against hunger. Quoting a famous chinese proverb, ”If you want happiness for a lifetime – help someone else,” she challenges all Senators and Senate offices to find happiness and get involved.

Of the many fundraisers at the Capitol, Senate offices are already participating in charitable raffles for gift cards and ice cream fundraisers.

Coming up, Senator Will Espero’s office is pre-selling Valentine’s Day cookies for $1 while Senator Michelle Kidani’s office will sell Valentine Candygrams for $1 starting Monday. Offices of Senators Brickwood Galuteria and Donna Mercado Kim will be selling chili next week Wednesday at $3.01 a bowl.

So who will enjoy the ono chocolate-covered strawberry prize bouquet and bragging rights this month? Senator Donna Mercado Kim’s office is in the lead with Senator Suzanne Chun Oakland’s office in second and Senate Clerk’s Office close behind in third.