Writer Kingston to read from new work
Author and poet Maxine Hong Kingston will read from her new free-verse poem-memoir, "I Love a Broad Margin to My Life," today at the Church of the Crossroads.
She will also read from her 2003 publication, "The Fifth Book of Peace," which in part recalls the sanctuary that the church afforded 24 servicemen for their stance against the Vietnam War in 1969.
Her appearance is part of the church’s 17th biennial "A Gift of Love" concert, which will feature Hawaiian recording artist Jon Osorio and the church choir. The event begins at 7 p.m. at 1212 University Ave.
Musical director Don Conover said the repertoire will range from Broadway hits to James Taylor, with participation from the audience. There will be "unique instrumentation, including the pahu drum, oboe, concert harp, cello and percussion," he said. A reception will follow.
Though the concert is free, donations are requested to raise $9,000 for music scholarships.
Drag race driver injured as car crashes
A drag race driver was injured Sunday afternoon after apparently losing control of his car and crashing into a judging tent at Hilo Drag Strip.
The driver suffered a large cut on the top of his head and multiple scrapes on his body and complained of neck pain, according to a Hawaii County Fire Department report. Bystanders attended to him until paramedics and fire rescue personnel arrived.
He was taken to Hilo Medical Center.
No other serious injuries were reported. The crash occurred just after 2 p.m.
Property agent indicted on theft charges
A grand jury has indicted a former Kona property manager accused of closing shop in 2009 and disappearing with more than $20,000 he owed to rental property owners.
West Hawaii Today, citing Circuit Court records, reported that Robert Marlowe Smith, owner of the now-defunct Property Network Ltd., was indicted April 19 on one count of first-degree theft.
He remained at large as of Friday, said Kona Detective Myra Iwamoto. A bench warrant was issued for his arrest with the stipulation he not be released on bail.
The indictment says the crimes occurred between Feb. 15, 2009, and Aug. 15, 2011, and involve more than $20,000.
Deputy Prosecutor Kaua Jackson said the lone theft charge covers 34 cases.
First-degree theft is a Class B felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a maximum fine of $25,000.
Anyone with information is asked to call Iwamoto at 326-4646, ext. 281.
