The GEMS section will be updated as soon as we know when and where we will be holding our 2010 GEMS program for fifth grade girls on the west side of the Big Island. For more information, contact GEMS Chairperson, Cindy Armer at cbarmer@hotmail.com.

Our thanks to all who helped make the 2009 GEMS Program another successful one. We had a record number of fifth graders (286), which was about fifty more than any prior year. Thanks to the donations of our members and supporters; the donations of the parents of other fifth graders; local businesses who advertised through us; and our big contributors - Keauhou Canoe Club and Wal-Mart; we closed out our books with less than a $1,000 loss. This was not a good year for grants; therefore, we were very happy to be so close to our target.

The following information is retained for reference.

Girls Exploring Math and Science -- GEMS -- is an annual day of discovery for West Hawaii's fifth grade girls.

Through hands-on exhibits and workshops led by local professional women, students use math, science and technology in myriad ways to explore their worlds.

The program is designed to stimulate interest and bolster the confidence of girls in these traditionally male-dominated fields.

For information on the workshops, see the GEMS Program page.