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Architect focus of next forum
Inspiration, mental stimulation, planning challenges and more could all be gained by coming along to the next Mangawhai Art & Culture Forum. This month's topic is Architecture, and will be led by award winning architect and gifted visionary David Wingate. Find out how he became an architect, what drives and influences him, learn a little of the history of New Zealand architecture, and who are some of our most influential contemporary architects. And most importantly, discover David's amazing vision for a future 'Magical Mangawhai Park'. Plenty to talk and think about, all relevant to our community. To be held in the warm Mangawhai village library hall, Tuesday June 30, 7-9pm, $6 per person, and bring along drinks and nibbles to share if you wish.

Chance for a bargain?
Who doesn't enjoy hunting out a bargain? There will be plenty of opportunity at the big Garage Sale on Saturday July 4, 8am -12 noon, in the old museum building next to the library in the village – and support the new Mangawhai Museum at the same time. Museum folk are preparing to vacate the little building and are making the most of their efforts by combining it with a fundraising garage sale. If you have any items that you wish to donate suitable for the sale, please contact Sharyn McLean 431 4838 to arrange collection. Better get there early for the treasures!

Great idea spotted
The post at the entrance to Sunlea (Molesworth Drive) to support residents’ rubbish bags. Keeps them off the ground, stops the birds and dogs, is all neat and tidy. A couple on Wintle Road too. Hope the idea spreads.

Concert coming up
Coming up, the popular Mangawhai Singers annual concert is a little earlier this year in July 24-25. With the theme Around the World in Song, choirmaster Christine Bygrave will lead what is sure to be a very enjoyable and professional performance. Once again, proceeds will go to the museum, and as both performances are always sold out it will pay to secure your tickets early. Call in to the museum.

Fruit photo features Did you know a stunning photo of mandarins on Colleen Hughes amazing old tree in Moir St graced the cover of Viva magazine a couple of weeks ago? And mandarins featured in Angela Casley's recipes inside Viva. Angela, and the editor of Viv, Amanda Linnell, are the daughters of Vivienne Linnell, herself a long time local identity.

Local talent will surprise
The next Music Makers (open mic) evening at Sail Rock Restaurant is Tuesday July 7, 7-9pm, $2. You never know who is going to perform, and some local talent can really blow you away. Margaret has a special $15 meal deal on this month if you order between 5.30-6.30pm, so make a night of it.

Business movements
Some changes coming up in the village, with the Smashed Pipi cafe/ bar lease soon to be taken up by past tavern proprietor Helen Wilson, together with business partner Sheryl Moir. And you will have spotted the For Sale notice for the former Smashed Pipi land and building, and another For Sale on the site occupied by Ray White and Fresh. Then there's the St John ambulance station nearing completion, a credit to all concerned. And yes, the Op Shop will remain a vital part of St John in the area as there is still money to be paid off, future support for a full time officer etc. Community contributions, both by donating and buying, just seem to go from strength to strength. No wonder it's so well known.

Kaipara Art Awards soon
Local artists are preparing for the annual Gilmore Brown Kaipara Art Awards in August/September, held at the Matakohe Kauri Museum. Local sponsors who once again have generously contributed to these prestigious awards include Willie Hewitt of Westmoreland Homes, and Mike McGarry of A1 Coastal Realty, First National.

Kaiwaka
Community Cinema: Wild (R16) starring Reese Witherspoon, this Friday June 26, 7.30pm, $10. Shaun The Sheep (G) Sunday June 28 matinee, 2pm, $5. Coming up, St Vincent (M) Friday July 10, and SpongeBob The Movie (PG) matinee Sunday July 12. Comfy chairs, heating, big screen, surround sound, refreshments – the works!

Three cheers!
And John Bull, your friends wanted to make sure that everybody knew you had recently celebrated your 80th birthday!

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 News and views to share through this column? Contact Jo Roberts 431 4711 or email jo.roberts@ xtra.co.nz