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By local and wire sources

Well-being expo coming to Keauhou

The public is invited to explore and experience alternative therapies, “green” living and wellness resources, healthy products and natural services, personal growth and positive living during the Hawaii Green Living and Total Well-Being Expo from March 6 to 7 at the Outrigger Keauhou Beach Resort. The expo will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. both days.

The expo features daily book signings and evening under the stars with New York Times best-selling author Neale Donald Walsch, healing hula, ancient Hawaiian ceremony of creation, hookahi na pua lei, or “oneness with the flower lei workshop,” plus more innovative speakers, workshops, movement classes and a variety of exhibits showcasing wellness options, healthy living, beauty, fitness, financial freedom, wellness travel, nutrition, spa and wellness centers, personal products, eco-friendly and green living resources, inspiration, anti-aging, energy medicine, alternative therapies, clothing for health, education and personal development.

A Hawaiian blessing and opening ceremonies featuring Kanoaokalani Switzer, Kahu S. Kaimiloa Dahang and Keola Conner begin at 9:30 a.m. March 6, followed by a full schedule of speakers, workshops and movement classes.

Admission is $5 and includes exhibits, featured speakers and movement classes. Admission for both days is $8. Workshops are $40. A VIP reception with Walsch is $100 and includes VIP seating, $35 general admission, $45 preferred and $55 priority. A goody bag and $10 gift certificates will be given to the first 100 attendees each day.

For exhibitor inquiries, contact Sharman O’Shea at 447-9228, visit totalwellbeingexpo.com or write Total Well Being Expo, P.O. Box 31241, Honolulu, HI 96820.


Zhu Zhu Pets expands to include new critters and accessories

NEW YORK — Last year’s breakout toy, Zhu Zhu Pets, is adding new hamster characters and accessories to its lineup — as well as several new animals.

Parent company Cepia introduced the new toys at this week’s American International Toy Fair, where Zhu Zhu Pets won the Toy of the Year award.

In addition to more than 16 new robotic hamsters, the St. Louis company is rolling out hedgehogs, skunks, chipmunks, squirrels, bunnies and raccoons.

There will also be a “rock star” line featuring hamsters with mohawk hairstyles and edgier colors. And, to cater to boys, Cepia is also introducing “Kung Zhu,” a special line of hamsters with alter egos who can battle one another before reverting back to their squeaky, cuddly selves.

And that’s not all. Look for new play habitats — such as a pizzeria, salon and airport — for the critters to enjoy and products such as coloring books, Vice President of Marketing Natalie Hornsby said in an interview from the company’s private gallery at the toy fair.

“We want to keep the line strong,” she said. “When you look at the concept, there’s no reason why it shouldn’t be around forever.”

The new critters will hit the shelves this year for $9.99, with accessories priced up to $24.99, she said.

Zhu Zhu Pets went from obscurity to become the holiday season’s biggest phenomenon, with major retailers including Toys “R” Us and Wal-Mart selling out of the toys almost as soon as they hit shelves.

By local and wire sources