I spent eight years of my life here in Kailua-Kona. But nearly a decade has passed since I returned to Oahu, and much has changed on the Big Island. No, the coffee farms and small towns are still lush and nostalgic. But in Kailua town, traffic backs up more frequently even as road-widening construction takes years, literally years, to complete.

Even here at the bowling alley, Tante's is long gone, and with it, my favored Shrimp Sarisari. The first time Tante had me try it, I was a bit hesitant. It was big, chunky and looked like nishime on steroids. But after a few bites, it was ono. About as healthy as you can eat when it comes to local food, with all kinds of Filipino roots and veggies. Good stuff, and I knew the counter girl here would tell me that they don't serve Sarisari any more.

As I left Kona International Airport on the Alamo shuttle bus, I chatted with other Oahuans who made the pilgrimage. Saint Louis' Delbert Tengan and Todd Los Banos were on board, and so was my old college colleague, Wes Nakama of the Advertiser. The Crusaders had their video and golf gear in tow -- wise men, indeed. Though I don't golf, West Hawaii is the land of many premier courses.

There's some work to do this afternoon before I head up to Kealakehe for the state-tourney football game. I plan to go early, as usual, to beat the crazy traffic. Besides, the ambience of a football game doesn't begin with the opening kickoff. Watching the stadium fill up, teams warm up, plus a glorious Kona sunset ... that's all part of the experience that makes high school football beyond great.

Yeah, I'm sure the guys who have investigated Barry Bonds for the past five years have their element of satisfaction this week, but they don't get to meet kids and coaches who restore my faith and hope in mankind.

The Beef Tomato here at Kona Bowl (the restaurant, not the karaoke bar) is excellent and worth the wait. Heaping with beef and tossed salad (mac optional). And it's air-conditioned here.

As for the game tonight, do not be surprised if Kealakehe finally breaks the schnide and upsets Waianae. They've got two previous games in as many years to learn from, and that video will help. The fact that the new coaching staff led by Gary Clark refused to exchange video with Waianae could be 1) bachi, or 2) just a great competitive advantage.

Whatever you believe, it's going to be a good game tonight. Waianae has a stalwart defense and a strong ground game. Kealakehe lives and dies with the pass and quarterback Kawai Kanuha. I'd be surprised if the Waveriders don't have a sellout tonight. Gotta be there early.

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