HONOLULU Magazine April 2025

CAN WE RETURN TO AHUPUA‘A?

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NEW LATINO FLAVORS

2025 SUMMER PROGRAMS GUIDE

Pickleball has morphed into a serious sport and a wildly popular activity for people of all ages.

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Inspiring Island living since 1981 Hawaii Home + Remodeling has proudly been considered Hawaii’s premier source for readers to turn to for all things related to home life. Whether you are searching for local companies to hire for a home renovation, tips on trendy interior design, or even advice from experts in their respective fields, Hawaii Home + Remodeling is sure to have something for you.

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A portion of the proceeds benefit Hui Mahi‘ai ‘Āina, a community organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of those in need and the houseless population in Waimānalo.

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FEATURES 20 It’s Everywhere!

No longer just a game for retirees, pickleball has morphed in Honolulu into both a serious sport and a wildly popular activity for people of all ages. And it’s only getting bigger.

BY K ATRINA VALCOURT

32 Can We Return to Ahupua‘a?

A movement is underway to resurrect the traditional Hawaiian land division and management system to better care for the ‘āina, water and people.

BY DIANE SEO

53 HONOLULU Family’s Summer Programs Guide Make the most of summer with 58 academic, enriching and inspiring options for your keiki.

DEPARTMENTS 6 Editor’s Page

NOT WHAT IT SEEMS

The only way to understand anyone or anything is to learn more.

BY DIANE SEO

9 Currents Kintsugi repair services, a sit-down with Hawai‘i’s Senate minority leader, new luxury developments, sweet native bird hair clips and more.

73 ‘Ono A new world of Latin flavors from Central and South America is emerging around Honolulu.

BY MARI TAKETA

80 Afterthoughts

BITTEN BY THE PICKLEBALL BUG

It happened to me too, and I’ve never liked sports.

Aji de gallina, Peruvian Corner, page 73

OLIVIER KONING

BY K ATRINA VALCOURT

PROMOTIONS 41 Faces of Hawai‘i HONOLULU Magazine celebrates some of Hawai‘i’s prominent leaders and businesses who are making waves in their industry.

ON THE COVER: Prycen Haas. PHOTO: Aaron K. Yoshino.

E D I TO R’ S PAG E

Not What It Seems The only way to understand anyone or anything is to learn more.

Things are not as they seem.

It’s a phrase frequently iterated, and so true.

We often assume things about people, circumstances, pretty much everything, then grip these views as truths.

I’m constantly reminded, however, that assumptions are just that.

This was the case with Sheldon Nagata (see story on page 18). I’ve known Sheldon for years—he works at ESPN Honolulu, HONOLULU’s sister company—and I’ve always thought of him as a friendly sales guy who lives and breathes UH sports.

We found ourselves standing next to each other (a bit awkwardly, I must admit) at a work party. We started chitchatting, the kind of small talk you do when big bosses are around and you’re on your best behavior. He asked me how I spend my free time— doing yoga—then he casually mentioned his hobby—gardening. Intrigued, I started asking questions. What did he grow? How did he start? Soon, I learned his was no ordinary garden. Over the years, Sheldon had cultivated a tropical forest bursting with trees, plants, flowers. What began as a chore to spruce up his weed-choked yard turned into a calling that connected him to his son, nature and higher forces.

When I visited the garden later, I was stunned. I never would have pegged Sheldon as a nature lover with an eye for art, someone who would show me his home’s windows, then explain how he intentionally planted greenery so each window’s view would appear as a painting showcasing nature’s beauty. To be honest, it was surreal to engage in such a richly nuanced conversation with someone who I knew but obviously didn’t really know.

As I drove home that day, I vowed to stop assuming things about people. Everyone has a deep internal life whether they publicly show that side of themselves or not. How people look and act at a cursory glance rarely reveals what’s happening inside. At this stage of life, I don’t need more 6

HONOLULU MAGAZINE

AARON K. YOSHINO

A

TA K E AWAY from this issue:

acquaintances or surface friendships.

I don’t want shallow exchanges, either.

I’m aiming for meaningful connections and conversations.

It’s important to remain a learner, never assuming we know enough about anything. Through our work, my colleagues and I have this opportunity every day.

For this issue’s cover story, executive editor Katrina Valcourt tackled the pickleball craze. Although she had already been taking lessons, I could tell she was growing more enthusiastic about the subject the deeper she went into her reporting. “I didn’t realize how serious—and lucrative—a sport pickleball can be,” she says. “It’s not just a game, but something that has taken players all over the world and created opportunities beyond what I ever would’ve imagined from something that just seemed like a pandemic pastime.”

And for a feature I wrote on a movement to resurrect Hawai‘i’s traditional ahupua‘a system (page 32), I started

with only a rudimentary understanding of ahupua‘a, drawing from what I learned in school several decades ago. To learn more, I spent two days at the East-West Center in January, engrossed in discussions among some of the Islands’ most respected Native Hawaiian leaders. By being a fly on the wall, I gained a far richer understanding not just about ahupua‘a, but about Hawai‘i, our history and what we’re up against today.

What I’m getting at is how important it is to keep learning, understanding, seeking—never assuming we know enough with superficial knowledge.

Things are often not as they appear and it’s always worth the effort to discover more. This issue, like all issues, gave us opportunities to do just that.

DIANE SEO EDITORIAL DIRECTOR DIANES@HONOLULUMAGAZINE.COM

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CAN WE RETURN TO AHUPUA‘A?

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LIFE

H E R I TA G E

Gold Rush

IN

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CONSIDERING ITS BEAUTY, it may be surprising to learn that the Japanese art of

kintsugi was born of practicality. “Back in the 15th century, pottery was hard to come by, so every piece was precious,” local ceramicist Kana Ogawa says. Today, the traditional technique, which employs gilded lacquer to repair ceramics, is enjoying somewhat of a resurgence, gaining popularity among those who eschew throw-away culture in favor of thoughtful, eco-conscious curation. Ogawa, who taught herself the craft after stumbling upon a kit in Japan, now offers repair services to others and passes along her knowledge through workshops at Fishschool, Fishcake boutique’s art studio. See more on page 17.

—Brie Thalmann, photo by Aaron K. Yoshino kana-ogawa.com

APRIL 2025

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CURRENTS

HAPPENINGS

April Picks Top events this season.

BY ANDREA LEE

Festival Hawaiian Scottish Festival & Highland Games April 5–6 / 9 a.m.–4 p.m.

Thomas Jefferson Elementary School / Free admission Celebrate Scottish culture with traditional music; dance and food; swordplay demonstrations; and the main event, the Highland Games, which is open to novice and veteran athletes alike. hawaiianscottishassociation.com

MANUEL HARLAN

Musical Tina – The Tina Turner Musical April 22–27 Blaisdell Concert Hall / From $50 See how Tina Turner faced adversity to become the Queen of Rock ’n’ Roll in this spirited musical featuring her greatest hits. broadwayinhawaii.com, @broadwayinhawaii Festival Waikīkī Spam Jam April 26 / 4–10 p.m.

Waikīkī / Free admission

Festival ‘Iolani Fair April 25–26 / noon–10 p.m.

‘Iolani School / Free admission

Concert Boyz II Men April 26 / 7 p.m.

Waikīkī Shell / From $49.50

Festival 30th “I Love Kailua” Town Party April 27 / 11 a.m.–4 p.m.

Kailua Road / Free admission

Spam tacos, mochi balls, gelato and more await at this block party dedicated to Hawai‘i’s favorite canned meat. Don’t miss the dine-in specials at participating restaurants from April 19–May 4.

Look forward to out-of-this-world food, games, rides and general store goodies at this year’s Cosmic Craze-themed fair. Proceeds will benefit student travel opportunities.

Known for ’90s hits like “End of the Road” and “I’ll Make Love to You,” the legendary boy band is credited with bringing R&B back with a cappella vocal harmonies.

Show love for Kailua at its biggest block party, put together by the Lani-Kailua Outdoor Circle. It will have more than 75 vendors, live entertainment, sidewalk sales, logo merch and free health screenings.

spamjamhawaii.com, @waikikispamjam

iolanifair.org, @iolani_school

NEW IN TOWN A superstore, kimbap place and Windward dog park arrive on O‘ahu.

PHOTOS: BRIE THALMANN, MELISSA CHANG, COURTESY LOLA PILAR HAWAI‘I, COURTESY HAWAI‘I MODERN, HONOLULU PARKS AND REC

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HONOLULU MAGAZINE

ticKetmaster.com, @boyziimen

lkoc.org, @lanikailuaoutdoorcircle

C L AWS T E R Score adorable toys and prizes at this South King Street arcade dedicated to gachapon, claw machines and blind boxes.

DON DON DONKI Kapolei is now home to this supersized Japanese store’s first location. Think Don Quijote, plus fresh fish and meat counters and a food court.

@clawsters

donquijotehawaii.com, @dondondonkihi

CURRENTS

TA S T I N G S

A Sticky Success

Niu Soft Serve’s coconut-based hot kūlolo sundae is its top seller.

BY M A R I TA K E TA

T

EXTURED LIKE SMOOTH LAVA,

JAMES NAK AMURA

thick and caramelly, the star of Niu Soft Serve’s hot kūlolo sundae pools around a creamy swirl like a warm, luxuriant lagoon. It’s a boon and a bane. ‘Aiku‘e and Kekahu Napoleon​-​ Ahn, brothers who co-founded the tiny vegan dessert shop in Mō‘ili‘ili, wanted a signature item that would speak to their Hawaiian heritage and draw locals to their coconut-based swirls. They debuted their kūlolo creation in 2021, never dreaming that the several dozen pounds of kalo they went through in a month would turn into several hundred pounds. Warm and cold, chewy and crunchy (from toasted macadamia nuts), hot kūlolo sundaes are by far Niu’s top seller.

Why a bane? The glistening sauce of kalo, coconut milk, brown sugar and salt takes 24 hours to cook. Both brothers and their parents take turns nursing fresh batches four to six days a week. “I have customers tell me, ‘I’ve been coming here for two years and I’ve been thinking of trying something else, but every time I have to get a kūlolo sundae,’” says ‘Aiku‘e Napoleon-Ahn. “We are an ice cream shop, first and foremost, but I swear we spend more time making kūlolo than anything else.”

2320 S. King St., niusoftserve.com, @niusoftserve

LOLA PILAR H AWA I ‘ I X H AWA I ‘ I MODERN Photographer Kristin Reyno and vintage furniture restorer John Reyno now have a Kailua boutique.

lolapilarhawaii.com, @lolapilarhawaii, @hawaiimodern

KIMBAP PLUS On the corner of Ke‘eaumoku and Young streets, this tiny takeout spot rolls out several kimbap options, bibimbap, açaí bowls and smoothies.

KAHUA O WA I K A LU A D O G PA R K In Kāne‘ohe, Windward O‘ahu’s first off-leash dog park boasts picnic tables, benches, shady trees, pet water fountains and zones for large and small doggos.

honolulu.gov, @honolulu_parks APRIL 2025

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CUR

MĀLAMA

Nature Nurture

Volunteer: Visit DLNR’s website for a calendar of 2025 volunteer opportunities with local conservation organizations at dlnr.hawaii.gov/ dofaw/trees.

Celebrate Hawai‘i’s trees during the Year of Our Community Forests.

Expand your knowledge: The website also includes educational resources, from tree maps and plant profiles to guides for landscaping with native plants.

KELSIE DAYNA /DEPT. OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES

BY BRIE THALMANN

W

HEN IT COMES TO TREE CONSERVATION, images of Hawai‘i forests in their wildest forms, rising from our mountains and blanketing our valleys, can come to mind. But our community forests, made up of the trees along our streets, in our yards and parks and on our school campuses, need just as much care and attention.

With that in mind, Gov. Josh Green teamed up with the state’s Department of Land and Natural Resources to proclaim 2025 as the Year of Our Community Forests.

Here are ways to celebrate and get involved:

Get planting: To help restore urban forests, Grow Aloha, a hui of plant adoption partners, offers free native Hawaiian plants to Hawai‘i residents at Bishop Museum’s monthly Kaiwi‘ula Night Market event. Reserve plants online at bishopmuseum.org.

Play a game: Developed by nonprofit Trees for Honolulu’s Future, the Kūmula‘au card game offers fun facts about Hawai‘i’s trees, including their benefits and needs for survival. $15, for stockists visit treesforhonolulu.org/kumulaau.

Snag some swag: Hawai‘i residents can receive up to three complimentary tree-themed stickers designed by local artist Kelsie Dayna.

Just email your request and address to dlnr.fw.outreach@hawaii.gov with the subject line “Tree stickers.”

Bedeck your tech: Dayna has also created free virtual backgrounds and device wallpapers, available for download at dlnr.hawaii.gov/dofaw/ education.

DEVELOPMENTS

Ultra-Luxe Arrival Hawai‘i prepares to welcome America’s first Atlantis resort, at Ko Olina.

ISTOCK /GETT Y IMAGES PLUS, PIERRICK LEMARET

ONE OF THE WORLD’S MOST POSH RESORT CHAINS , with locations

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HONOLULU MAGAZINE

in the United Arab Emirates and China, is developing its first U.S. property next to Disney’s Aulani resort.

When an affiliate of California’s Kam Sang Co. bought more than 43 acres of land at Ko Olina in January, part of the deal was to see through plans to develop an Atlantis resort, originally announced for the area back in 2016 by the land’s previous owner, China Oceanwide Holdings Group, which recently underwent liquidation. Atlantis resorts are known for extreme luxury and lavish amenities, such as the world’s largest water park, underwater rooms and 24-karat gold facials. Atlantis’ The Royal in Dubai (pictured left), No. 9 among the World’s 50 Best Hotels, has more than 90 pools.

The resort is expected to take five years and $2 billion to build and generate hundreds of millions of dollars in revenue for Hawai‘i. A second hotel will also be built in the area fronting the lagoons. —Katrina Valcourt

CURRENTS

CURRENTS

C O N V E R S AT I O N S

Kaukau and Kūkākūkā A talk with Hawai‘i State Sen. Brenton Awa.

BY N A K A N AT H A N I E L

T

H I S I S T H E F I R ST I N a

series of interviews and shared meals with Hawai‘i notables—and thankfully, Hawai‘i state Sen. Brenton Awa’s colorless lunch didn’t keep him from saying some colorful things.

It was supposed to be a cordial Friday meal in Awa’s office at the Hawai‘i State Capitol, but a prominent sign on the senator’s office door, pointing to his no-gifts policy, took me by surprise. His staff wouldn’t let me bring him lunch as planned. However, ‘Olelo No‘eau No. 211 says, “A‘ohe u‘i hele wale o Kohala,” or “a person from Kohala can’t arrive empty-handed.” Coming from Waimea, I had a jar of spiced mac nuts with me, from our ‘ohana tree.

I wish Awa had let me bring him lunch because our meals couldn’t have been more incongruent. I had stopped at Cooke Street Market for

a flamboyantly colored salmon poke bowl. For Awa? He had quite possibly the saddest meal I’ve ever seen: a microwaved tray of beige Banquet Salisbury steak and mashed potatoes.

As we ate, Awa, a former KITV news anchor, and I discussed his approach to getting attention. In January, he upstaged the opening ceremonies of this year’s legislative session with a speech that went viral and was reported in the news. In the speech, the Kahuku native sharply criticized Gov. Josh Green, Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi, and the Honolulu City Council’s recent 64% pay raise, and made a transgender comment that angered the LGBTQ community.

Awa knew he had to gain people’s attention if he had any hope of accomplishing anything, since, as a member of the Republican minority, he certainly didn’t have the votes

ISTOCK /GETT Y IMAGES PLUS, DIVIART

FROM LEFT: BRENTON AWA , NAK A NATHANIEL. COURTESY: NAK A NATHANIEL

to pass legislation, or the leverage to get his way. “We got to bring in people who know nothing,” says Awa, reflecting on the speech. “We got to give them something digestible and [the speech] was a digestible thing for them.”

Awa tells me he was blessed with communication skills at a time when attention is more important than dollars in a campaign chest. “For the time we live in right now, communication to the masses and being able to know what [TV] producers think and how to manipulate—no, that’s the wrong word …” As he sought a gentler word, I cut him off and said that no, manipulation was the right word.

Yet, Awa knows attention in the media or social platforms doesn’t necessarily translate to votes. Despite having more than 70,000 Instagram followers, he narrowly won reelection to O‘ahu’s 23rd district last year.

Awa’s stirring speech gained even more attention after being posted on the Mean Hawai‘i Instagram account. Mark Talaeai, who runs the popular local news account with more than 400,000 followers, lost handily when he ran for a House seat in 2022.

“I know that social doesn’t work for campaigns,” Awa says. “We don’t care [that social media audiences don’t vote] because one day we hope they will.”

So what’s his path? When asked about higher office, he quickly ruled out running for governor, but the possibility of running for Congress, lieutenant governor or mayor wasn’t as quickly dismissed. However, Awa, pointing to his graying hair, said the job he has now is killing him. “At the end of the day, this is not my passion. I am good at this, but it’s not a passion,” he says.

“The news gave me a light saber and I came in here and have been able to use it,” said Awa. “We go after all of the people who don’t believe in the government—all the people like me.”

I really wish Awa had let me treat him to a better meal. He took three bites of his mashed potatoes and left the rest untouched. The kūkākūkā was certainly more colorful than his kaukau, and he conceded that I could leave the nuts with his staff.

APRIL 2025

13

CURRENTS

NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

What She Was Called to Do Aunty Blanche McMillan’s Hui Mahi‘ai ‘Āina has created a community in Waimānalo for formerly homeless people.

BY K AT R I N A VA LC O U RT

A

T THE END OF HILU STREET

in Waimānalo, Hui Mahi‘ai ‘Āina’s residents welcome us to a vast green space behind Aunty Blanche McMillan’s home. She zooms over on a golf cart, greeting those she hasn’t seen since returning from New Zealand, where she taught people how to implement concepts of kauhale, or communities of tiny homes, to house the homeless.

Everyone is happy to see her, though she jokes that some work didn’t get done without her.

McMillan grew up in a family of 17.

The Hui Mahi‘ai ‘Āina residences sit on her great-great-tūtū’s land, unused for years before 2020. When pandemic rules prohibited access to the beach, her heart sank for the homeless folks nearby. “I asked God, ‘What can I do to bring people home?’” she says.

She started Hui Mahi‘ai ‘Āina in 2014 as a food bank, having spent 15 years as a program coordinator for the Catholic Church.

It soon expanded into an outreach program offering other services. The next logical thing was to make sure those who needed it had a roof over their head. McMillan gathered 14 people who were previously living on the beach. They just needed to be loved, she says, to get back on their feet. In fact, love is at the heart of everything she does, and you can tell it’s genuine. “God is my boss,” she says, adding that this is what she was called to do.

With donations, she got materials and had everyone build their own homes. In just a month, 11 structures and the beginnings of a community farm were constructed. Now, five years later, 82 people live here, including families, older adults, and those with advanced illnesses. Adult residents pay $200 a month as “program fees”; for each kid, it’s $50 more.

Everyone in the community works together like a family, cooking dinner, cleaning and taking care of the land. Residents also help at monthly food distributions at a nearby gymnasium. Right now, the garden has ti 14

HONOLULU MAGAZINE

(for lei and lau lau), ginger, avocado, lychee, kalo, mountain apple, banana, papaya, aloe, sweet potato, ‘ulu, eggplant, mango, guava, citrus and more.

When residents tend the garden, they get to thinking they can grow and flourish just like the plants, McMillan says.

These are “beautiful, important people” who fell on hard times or went down the wrong path and ended up on the street, McMillan says. At Hui Mahi‘ai ‘Āina, drugs are not tolerated,

and church every Sunday is mandatory. Some residents come through the kauhale for transitional housing, but there’s no pressure to leave.

To act fast, McMillan didn’t obtain proper approval from the state Department of Land and Natural Resources before building. Turns out the housing lies in a flood zone. She’s now working with the state and aio Foundation (which has experience with developing housing at Kahauiki Village near Sand

FITNESS

Raise a Shoe GETT Y IMAGES, JAMES NAK AMURA

homeless communities on Maui and Moloka‘i, and in Hilo and Wai‘anae.

“The department is in full support of this project. Under the collaboration with aio Foundation, DLNR was reassured that our concerns were addressed. More importantly, when I visited Aunty Blanche’s Hui Mahi‘ai ‘Āina in Waimānalo, I was moved by the sense of community the residents felt for each other, for the place and for themselves,” DLNR Chair Dawn Chang said in a news release last October.

Recently, McMillan served as an adviser to former director of the Statewide Office of Homelessness and Housing Solutions, John Mizuno, who is now a special adviser on homelessness. McMillan is grateful to have the state on her side and plans to tell the Legislature, in no uncertain terms, that there is a solution to homelessness. “If only people could love people, they would never live a miserable life,” she says.

JAMES NAK AMURA

Island) to secure a lease for a nearby parcel. There, 58 units with shared kitchens and bathrooms will be constructed on land that’s at a slightly higher elevation.

Until now, the kauhale ran off a generator and a water line from McMillan’s property, with portable toilets available for use. The new space will be linked to sewage and electrical lines, and will include a large hall, kitchen, bathrooms and area for medical care. Everything the community has is by donation—no government funds are used. McMillan hopes the homes at the new space will be ready by the end of the year; she already has more than 100 people on the waitlist. Originally, McMillan says she wanted to help house 300 people. Now, she’s aiming for thousands.

Classes will also be offered to help residents get their GEDs. The area where the existing homes are now will be used for agriculture, and the structures will be donated to

Informal clubs combine weekly runs with a pint at a local bar or brewery.

BY A L E X A N D E R B . G AT E S

These seven run clubs are free to join, and for many of them, you can become a member just by showing up.

RUN. DRINK. REPEAT. Thursdays 6:15 p.m.; loops of around 3 miles start and end at Howzit Brewing. @run_drink_repeat DOHO RUN CLUB Thursdays 5:30 p.m., 102 S. King St. at the Robert William Kalanihiapo Wilcox Statue; pau hana at Black Shamrock Tavern. @doho.runclub KAKA‘AKO RUN CLUB Tuesdays 5:30 p.m., Kaka‘ako Waterfront Park at Cooke and Ilalo streets; pau hana at Village Bottle Shop, Aloha Beer, Howzit Brewing. @kakaakorunclub

JAMES NAK AMURA

O‘AHU RUN CLUB Friday mornings at Koko Crater, Saturday mornings at Ala Moana Beach Park; find pau hana times and locations by joining on the free Strava app. @oahu.runclub

Aunty Blanche McMillan, right, and her daughter, Wayleen McMillan, at the new housing site

Proceeds from this month’s Hawai‘i Pacific Health and ESPN Honolulu Open pickleball tournament presented by HMSA will go to Hui Mahi‘ai ‘Āina. The aio Foundation is the nonprofit arm of HONOLULU’s parent company, aio, which is also the event producer of the Honolulu Open.

HONOLULU RUNNERS Tuesdays 5:30 p.m., Runners Route Kapi‘olani store. Different 4- to 7-mile routes in Waikīkī, Ala Moana Beach Park and Downtown. run808.com/pages/hr NORTH SHORE RUN CLUB Wednesdays 5:15 p.m., ‘Āweoweo Beach Park in Hale‘iwa; pau hana at Teddy’s Bigger Burgers or Maya’s Tapas & Wine. @northshore.run.club RUNNERS AT MĀNOA/ UHM RUNNING CLUB Various dates and places, primarily the University of Hawai‘i

APRIL 2025

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C O N S E R VAT I O N

Bird’s-Eye Crew

A ARON K. YOSHINO

Hair accessories inspired by native wildlife.

IT ALL STARTED WITH A MAMA BIRD. To help her 3-year-old

daughter connect with native species, local artist and conservation biologist Ariel Imoto illustrated a set of endemic Hawai‘i birds. Imoto then teamed up with friend Danya Weber, founder of Hilo label Laulima, to bring the creatures to life in the form of charming hair clips. The range features endangered nēnē, ‘alae ‘ula (Hawaiian waterbird) and several Hawaiian honeycreepers, including ‘akēpa, ‘akikiki, ‘ākohekohe, kiwikiu and ‘i‘iwi, designed to spark awareness while adding local flair to your ’do. —Brie Thalmann

From $9, laulima.store, @laulimahawaii, arielillustrates.com, @arielillustrates

E C O - F R I E N D LY

Organic Growth

Yuko Palazzo’s next chapter is all about intentional, conscious design.

SAM FEYEN

JUST AS ONE’S STYLE EVOLVES OVER TIME, so too do designers’ influences.

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Such is the case with Yuko Palazzo, whom you may know for her boho resortwear line, Marina & Co., which hit shelves in 2018. Since then, the Diamond Head-based designer has found herself drawn more and more to sustainable practices. “I realized that fashion is not only an art form, but also a means to give back to the earth,” Palazzo says. Thus, in 2021, she launched Sage Imber, her new womenswear label crafted with natural fabrics, eco-friendly dyes and traditional dyeing techniques that reduce chemical waste. Aesthetically, the line leans more minimal-modern. Its latest collection, Symbol, is inspired by our relationship with nature. Slip on a rose-hued day dress or fern-colored linen blazer, or channel wabi-sabi vibes in a checked hemp jumper or an abstract-print kimono top. —BT

sageimber.com, @sageimber.thelabel

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H E R I TA G E

Connecting Points Ceramicist Kana Ogawa finds joy between kintsugi’s gilded lines.

KANA OGAWA’S RELATIONSHIP WITH KINTSUGI, a traditional

BOTH COURTESY: ONEPA‘A HAWAI‘I

A ARON K. YOSHINO

Japanese pottery-mending technique, began the way it does for so many—she broke something.

“It was a teacup,” Ogawa says. “It was the first cup that I’d bought that was handmade, so it was really important to me.” She stashed the pieces away thinking that one day she’d glue them back together, and as one does, promptly forgot about them. Then, while visiting family in Japan, Ogawa came across a kintsugi kit and proceeded to slowly, painstakingly teach herself the craft. “They make it look easy, but it’s not,” she says. “You can’t skip steps, and you can’t go back and fix everything. It’s a lot of trial and error and studying.”

Kintsugi originated in 15th century Japan, when urushi (sap from lacquer trees) was mixed with other binders and metallic powders to create an adhesive. Often, the meandering seams of silver and gold render repaired pieces even more beautiful than when they were created. They’re also tangible representations of kintsugi as a philosophy that sees imperfections as assets and scars as hard-earned badges of resilience and strength. For Ogawa, the practice brings her back in alignment with the natural world. “The society we live in is so fast-paced” and kintsugi requires that you slow down, appreciate and surrender to the materials, she says.

Now, Ogawa offers kintsugi services to others. She’s fixed everything from dishware and vases to a cherished whistle from South Korea’s Jeju Island. One of her favorite repairs is a small green-andwhite soup bowl left behind by her roommate. “It was cracked exactly in half, so it was like the two of us separated, but put back together,” Ogawa says. Besides turning out lovely final products, it’s that fostering of relationships that she enjoys the most—whether it’s between a person and a beloved object, a memory or another person.

“While I’m physically putting those puzzle pieces back together it re-creates a beautiful connection between the things we use and each other.” —BT

SPOTTED

Night Swim Onepa‘a Hawai‘i turns industrial trash into beachwear treasure.

THE ONLY ACCEPTABLE WAY for plastic

waste to be in the ocean? In the form of Onepa‘a Hawai‘i’s sustainable beachwear. The Mānoa label uses Econyl—a nylonlike fabric regenerated from discarded industrial plastic—to make its swimsuits, boardshorts, keiki thermals and baby bucket hats. For her newest capsule collection, Ka Pō Hiwa, designer Tash Lyman-Mersereau pays homage to the dark, dreamy nature of the night sky with a bold black-on-black hibiscus print, available in styles for the whole family. —BT

onepaahawaii.com, @onepaahawaii

kana-ogawa.com

JA S PER C A B I AO

APRIL 2025

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A COMMUNITY

PURSUITS

Keeping It Country

“A Little Gardening”

“NĀNĀ I MUA, NĀNĀ I HOPE: honoring the

past, preserving the future.” These words are bolded at the top of oahu-arete.com, the website of developer Areté Collective, which is constructing 20 resort residential units in four low-rise buildings along O‘ahu’s North Shore, with more to come.

Residents question the sincerity of the message and are speaking out against what they say are outdated plans that don’t adequately consider rising sea levels, loss of habitat for endangered species, traffic congestion and Native Hawaiian culture.

The community group Kūpa‘a Kuilima started a petition in November 2024 to pause development until the developer provides an updated supplemental environmental impact statement and receives a new special management area permit, among other requests.

The organization says past requirements, set more than a decade ago, are outdated and that new information about things like the amount of coral cover and the increased number of monk seals and nesting sea turtles should be considered.

Areté paused construction late last year to accommodate more meetings with local leaders and community members about coastal erosion, cultural preservation and other issues. However, construction resumed in January without Kūpa‘a Kuilima’s requests being met.

A statement provided by Areté reads in part: “The City and County of Honolulu Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP) has repeatedly confirmed that the project has all the necessary entitlements and approvals to proceed. In 2022, and again in a recent letter, the DPP indicated that the SMA Permit and 2013 SEIS remain valid.”

The developer has also published FAQs on its website, explaining how it will deal with increased water and wastewater demand, protect wildlife and rehabilitate the shoreline, which CEO Rebecca Buchan says Areté intends to leave better than they found it.

Yet, the addition of luxury condos along undeveloped coastline doesn’t sit right with Kūpa‘a Kuilima and others whose aim is to keep the country country.

—Katrina Valcourt 16

HONOLULU MAGAZINE

Over the years, Sheldon Nagata transformed his weedfilled Punchbowl property into a lush sanctuary of nature.

BY DIANE SEO A ARON K. YOSHINO

North Shore residents push back against a new luxury development.

AS A PUNAHOU PARENT in the late

1990s, Sheldon Nagata started buying plants from the school’s carnival. At the time he knew nothing about gardening; he just wanted greenery to help fill in his yard, which was sprawling with weeds. Little did he know that his property would transform over the years into a stunning sanctuary of nature, and that tending to it would become his die-hard passion, a raison d’être.

Nagata, a senior account manager at ESPN Honolulu, gave me a tour of his place, which started inside his multilevel Punchbowl home. The view from most of the windows resembles paintings, an intentional detail. He framed each of the large panes “to bring the outside in,” he says.

I’ve personally known Nagata for more than a decade, yet I had no idea he loved growing things or was so thoughtful about nature until we spoke at a company function. He casually told me he “did a little gardening.” Intrigued, I soon learned that his “little gardening” was decades in the making, and that he had essentially created a green wonderland in his backyard with more than 100 different kinds of plants, flowers and trees—so much lushness I gasped when I saw it.

Nagata started gardening as a solo project, but the planting rose to another level in 2010. That’s when his son, Landon, back home from college for the summer, asked if he could work with him on the yard of a newly constructed second home on the property. Nagata was surprised. Landon had never expressed

CURRENTS

such interest before, so he embraced the chance to do something meaningful together. Over that summer, the pair spent hours together on their steep hillside property, their hands covered in dirt from shoveling, clearing away weeds and planting flowers and trees that would set down roots and eventually flourish.

Nagata still talks about that summer fondly. And although he went back to tending to the yard by himself after his son returned to school, he cherishes what they did together, saying that’s when things “really started.” Through all this, Nagata has developed a deep reverence for nature. No matter what the weather is, he never wa-

ters or fertilizes anything. Instead, he lets nature “do its thing.”

“Every day, I look at it, and I feel good about it,” he says. “I’ll have a cup of coffee in the kitchen, and I just stare at the outdoors, the plants and birds, and I think, this is nature, this is what God created.”

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! e r e h w No longer just a game for retirees, pickleball has morphed in Honolulu into both a serious sport and a wildly popular activity for people of all ages. And it’s only getting bigger.

BY K AT R I N A VA LC O U RT PHOTOS BY AARON K. YOSHINO

APRIL 2025

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FEATURE IT’S EVERYWHERE!

I

T’S THE FASTEST-GROWING SPORT IN AMERICA, a stat

backed up by a 2024 report from The Sports & Fitness Industry Association and Pickleheads, which says pickleball has grown 223.5% in three years.

Matches are shown on every major sports network, and the 24-hour streaming platform Pickleballtv logged more than 1 billion minutes watched last season.

Pickleball exploded in popularity during COVID-19 shutdowns when it was one of the few social activities allowed. But it was actually invented in Washington state 60 years ago and reached Hawai‘i decades before it had expanded to the rest of the country by the early ’90s.

As a child on Maui, Laurie Knox Loney and her family learned the game in the late ’60s from visitor Bob O’Brian, who was the neighbor of one of the sport’s founders. “My dad immediately became enamored and started building us a court in our driveway,” she says. Loney’s family

played pickleball for many years on that makeshift court, then built a better one when they moved from Kīhei to Kula. After her parents relocated to O‘ahu in 2001, and Loney remained on Maui, her husband built a new court for their 25th anniversary.

“I played tennis for over 50 years also, and that’s fun, but this game is more fun to me,” she says. Now 67, she rents out her court in Kula and also teaches lessons. Pre-pandemic, it was mostly tourists coming to play, but after COVID-19 hit, her clientele skewed local. That’s continued, with Maui County being slow to add public courts. Her court is booked almost every day from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

On O‘ahu, however, the number of public courts has dramatically grown, to 188, with more to come.

As part of its Kākou for Parks Program, the Honolulu Department of Parks and Recreation began adding pickleball court lines to existing tennis, basketball and volleyball courts in 2016. Because those courts are shared, they don’t have permanent nets, but the department is working on converting underutilized courts

The Aloha Pickleball Games & Festival at the Hawai‘i Convention Center in November 2024

to stand-alone pickleball courts that do.

The state’s first pickleball complex opened in the summer of 2023 at Ke‘ehi Lagoon Beach Park, which now boasts 12 pickleball courts where four tennis courts used to be (a typical pickleball court is 44 by 20 feet, up to four of which can fit on a standard 120-by-60-foot tennis court).

The Backlash PICKLEBALL’S POPULARITY hasn’t come

without drama, as we saw last fall when the idea of converting some of Ala Moana Regional Park’s tennis courts angered local tennis players. After vociferous opposition, the city dropped any notions about reconfiguring any of the 10 courts, though pickleball lines have been added to the practice tennis area.

Then there’s the unavoidable and persistent thwacking of pickleballs. At a Mānoa neighborhood board meeting in October, residents spoke out about banning pickleball from within 500 feet of homes and schools because of the noise, which they say falls within a bothersome frequency range. Someone even put up a fake sign alerting pickleballers to play indoors or with quieter equipment. (A “quiet” paddle came out in November 2023, so “quieter” is possible.) With cities around the country either banning pickleball courts or seeking ways to mitigate the noise, Mānoa Valley District Park planted about 25 ashoka trees in December to dampen the reverb, along with about 50 panax plants.

The Injuries PICKLEBALL HAS ALSO BEEN RESPONSIBLE for a spike in injuries. Jeremy Ueki

has treated a growing number of patients with overuse injuries at his physical therapy practice, Rehab Therapy Partners in Kaimukī and Pearl City. “Ten years ago, CrossFit was a really big thing. It went really viral, and that was our newest stream of clientele,” he says. “Within the past couple of years, we’ve been getting more patients from pickleball-related injuries.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 24

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HONOLULU MAGAZINE

BASELINE

THE BASICS It can be tricky to grasp the rules and how to keep score, but here’s what to know.

Serves must go crosscourt, diagonally, from behind the baseline and past the receiving team’s nonvolley line.

First serve is from the right side.

N O N VO L L E Y L I N E

44 FEET

7 FEET

20 FEET

N O N VO L L E Y ZO N E

You’re only allowed to step into the nonvolley zone, often called “the kitchen,” if the ball has bounced first.

If the serving team scores, the server switches to the left side.

They continue alternating left and right until they commit a fault; then it’s their partner’s serve. After both servers commit a fault, serving switches to the other team (side out). After the first round only, side out happens after the first server’s fault.

E+, ADAMK AZ

N O N VO L L E Y L I N E

The receiver must wait for the ball to bounce once before returning, then it must bounce again before the serving team can hit it. After those first two bounces, players can choose to volley or hit it after one bounce.

The receiver’s partner should be at the nonvolley line. As the serving team swaps left and right, the receiving team moves back and forward.

BASELINE APRIL 2025

23

FEATURE IT’S EVERYWHERE!

“You can train and have fun at the same time, which I think is the beauty of the sport.”

— Jamie Haas

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 22

Love at First Lob miguel maguyon, 29, used to think pickleball was for “old people.” Then, a friend around his age tore his calf muscle playing the game. “That got me curious,” says the estimator for a commercial construction company.

“I was like, there’s no way you injured your calf playing pickleball.”

Soon enough, the two friends were taking part in “open play” at pickleball courts in Kaimukī. One evening, Maguyon noticed a cute young woman and tried to get her attention by catching stray balls near her court. But before she even noticed him he was called away to play his own game, and she was gone by the time he finished.

He later ran into the same woman in Waikīkī and asked if she happened to be playing pickleball in Kaimukī. She said she had been—and soon, the two started dating, including playing pickleball.

A year and a half later, he and Nagisa Saito, 23, a psychology major at Kapi‘olani Community College, are going strong as a couple.

One of the first Christmas gifts Maguyon bought Saito was a paddle with her name on it.

“We play in tournaments together. We play in league together as mixed doubles,” Maguyon says.

“We also play against each other, but mostly in open play, or if we’re practicing with the team or drilling or something like that,” so they don’t get too competitive. “She would say that she’s better.

I would say that I’m better, though I think that means we’re pretty much the same.”

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HONOLULU MAGAZINE

They span from rolled ankles to broken shoulders and elbows from falls, and many of the patients are middle age or older. Players who pick up the sport after being inactive often come in with patellar tendonitis ( jumper’s knee), or gluteus maximus or medius injuries. “A proper stretching program would be ideal for them to work on, and it can be something as simple as a dynamic warmup before they even go out and play,” Ueki says. High knees, pulling your knees to your chest and moving your hips around can help, along with wearing tennis shoes with good traction and doing a postworkout stretch.

The Games Go On BUT ALL THIS HASN’T squashed

pickleball’s lure among all age groups, even those who had never played sports before. “It’s like a great video game. It’s easy to learn but hard to master,” says Miguel Maguyon, a 29-year-old commercial construction estimator. “I went from thinking it’s super cheesy and just for old people … but now I’m that guy” who plays at least four times a week.

At 6 p.m. on a recent weeknight, adults of all ages played

matches on Koko Head District Park’s two courts, while others waited their turn. Meanwhile, kids practiced their strokes on an empty basketball court nearby. It’s like this most nights.

Jamie Haas, who played tennis at UH Mānoa and became a college tennis coach, is now a professional pickleball player; at one point she was ranked 19th in the world in women’s singles on the United Pickleball Association’s Professional Pickleball Association Tour. “It has all the fun parts of tennis … but it’s just so much faster,” she says.

“When people compare tennis and pickleball, I’m like, well, you get more of a workout at pickleball, and they can’t believe it, but you’re just constantly playing.

You hardly take a break, and it’s faster, so your heart rate naturally stays up.”

Haas and her husband, Prycen, were recently drafted to a premier team with Major League Pickleball Australia. Outside of Hawai‘i, tournaments offer top prize money, and combined with appearance fees and sponsorships, the best players can earn a quarter-million dollars a year.

According to Major League Pickleball, pro players with MLP and the PPA Tour earned a collective total of more than $30 million in 2024.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 28

PROMOTION

For Food, For Play, Forté Downtown Honolulu’s newest hub for pickleball, recreation and entertainment.

Hawai‘i’s first indoor, air-conditioned pickleball court State-of-the-art A social club with facility where members of all levels can hone their skills weekly pro clinics and members-only events, with food and drink options Open from 6 a.m. to midnight daily, giving you a reason to stay coming soon downtown after work or visit on the weekends.

For more information or to become a member, visit fortedoho.com.

1032 FORT STREET MALL, HONOLULU, HI | (808) 758-4683 | PICKLES@FORTEDOHO.COM Validated parking and entrance from Bethel Street

FEATURE IT’S EVERYWHERE! Sweat is no match for Aloha Modern’s microfiber sport towels, featuring moon, wave and lehua prints.

SERVING FASHION

BY BRIE THALMANN

With socks this quippy, who needs smack talk? Though embroidered with different local phrases, Short Stack Hawai‘i’s cushy athletic socks all say the same thing—you came to throw down. $15 each, shortstackhawaii.com, @shortstackhawaii

OluKai’s new ‘Anau court shoe features a supportive outsole wrap that allows for quick yet secure lateral movements and high-grip bottom that offers optimal traction.

Roomy enough for paddles, balls, a water bottle and more, we love that Aloha Collection’s duffle bags are made of splash-proof (read: easyto-clean) fabric. $70, aloha-collection.com, @alohacollection

$140, olukai.com, @olukai

Workout wear label Active by Teal is expanding into men’s styles, starting with its Luxe Hybrid Men’s Shorts, crafted with a hidden interior zip pocket and a breathable nylon-spandex fabric. $50 each, activebyteal.com, @activebyteal

Made with a fiberglass exterior and carbon fiber handle, the Palm Reader Paddle from Tori Richard infuses style into every swing.

Designed by a local mom for picklers up to 10 years old, Alikaleo Park’s crushable caps feature vintage ‘Iolani Sportswear prints and offer UPF40+ protection.

$78, toririchard.com, @toririchard

$25, alikaleopark.com, @alikaleopark

We’d rally to play in the newest performance skirt from Wahine Movement, outfitted with built-in shorts and a cool bark pattern. $74, wahinemovement.com, @florenciaarias

A ARON K. YOSHINO, COURTESY ALOHA MODERN, OLUK AI, ALOHA COLLECTION, TORI RICHARD, ALIK ALEO PARK

Ace game day looks with locally designed gear and activewear.

$30, alohamodern.com, @alohamodern

Keeping you healthy no matter where you are in life.

A great doctor is good for your health. With HMSA, you can choose your own doctor from our large network of providers.

HMSA is here with you.

For the good times. For the tough times. For lifetimes.

Learn more at hmsa.com or scan the QR code.

1010-1258101

DIGITALVISION VECTORS

READY, SET, DINK! Public and private lessons are available at every price range and level. Here are some options.

The Honolulu Department of Parks and Recreation offers free seasonal pickleball classes for newbies through advanced players as young as 7. Go to pros.hnl.info and click on “Activities” for a full list; you can filter by district, age and more.

The Catholic Charities Hawai‘i Lanakila Multi-Purpose Senior Center sometimes offers free pickleball classes for folk 60 and older. Call (808) 847-1322 to learn more.

Beyond Ball Hawai‘i in Kailua offers beginner and intermediate lessons for adults for $15. Download Glofox for iOS or Android, search for Beyond Ball and register through the booking app.

The O‘ahu Pickleball Association offers lessons at the Diamond Head Tennis Center at Kapi‘olani Regional Park. Register by skill level at oahupickleballassociation.org.

Group lessons are $75 for nonmembers.

The Nu‘uanu YMCA (ymcahonolulu.org) offers lessons ($75/session) to those 13 and up. Discounts are available for small groups registering for multiple lessons.

“Pickleball is more than just a sport, it's a way of life.”

— Laurie Knox Loney

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 24

The Organizers DONNA CHING, founder and

president of the O‘ahu Pickleball Association, hopes pickleball can grow sports tourism in Hawai‘i with tournaments that attract international players.

That was partly the impetus behind last November’s Aloha Pickleball Games & Festival at the Hawai‘i Convention Center, which included 45 new courts. There have been plenty of other tournaments too, such as the Hawai‘i State Pickleball Championships, Maui Pukaball Tournament, Hawai‘i Pickleball Open, Hawai‘i-Pacific Rim Pickleball Cup, Pearl Harbor Pickleball Invitational and more. This month—which happens to be National Pickleball Month—HONOLULU’s parent company, aio, is producing the Hawai‘i Pacific Health and ESPN Honolulu Open presented by HMSA. “My focus is really the community aspect of it, and that’s what drives me to do what I do,” Ching says.

She picked up pickleball in 2016, while competing at a tennis tournament in Arizona.

A stranger had offered to teach her the game, just for fun. That sportsmanship convinced Ching to hang up her tennis racket after 40 years. “For

someone to just show you immediately how a sport’s being played, and to take that time— that social connection is what really sold me on the sport,” she says.

The following April, she formed the O‘ahu Pickleball Association and is now an ambassador for USA Pickleball.

OPA schedules group play on the website Meetup, and also organizes exhibitions, lessons, tournaments, instructor training and other services. She says one of Hawai‘i’s top pickleballers, Xiao Yi Wang-Beckvall, got her start here in the Islands and now plays professionally on an Australian team. “I do see OPA as a launching pad for others,” Ching says. “They want to do more rec play, that’s great. If they want to come in as a coach, that’s great. They want to come in as a volunteer, that’s great, because we have something for everybody.”

In addition to WangBeckvall, the Islands have produced such talented players as Bobbi Oshiro, who won gold at the USA Pickleball National Championships last fall, and Keven Wong, who participated in ‘Iolani grad and Pickleball Kingdom founder Ace Rodrigues’ TV series, Pickleball Paddle Battle, which was filmed in 2023 but has not yet been released.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 30

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HONOLULU MAGAZINE

FEATURE

DIGITALVISION VECTORS

IT’S EVERYWHERE!

PERFECT YOUR GAME CONTROL THE BALL. Unlike tennis rackets, which have a little give in the strings, pickleball paddles are hard, so instead of hitting the ball, it’s more of a push.

“You’ve got to be able to catch that ball on the paddle, without bouncing, and then control it to where you want it to go,” he says.

“You just push the ball into certain areas.” Eventually, you can attempt “speed-ups” and power shots, but you need to get a feel for the ball first.

Eddy Rogers played racquetball professionally in his 20s before switching to a career in the game software industry (his brother is local entrepreneur Henk Rogers).

Though he still played racquetball and squash recreationally, he turned into a “couch potato” while raising four kids with his wife, Miyuki. But like many others, he discovered pickleball during the pandemic, and before long, he was hooked. Now the 59-year-old is a certified instructor; he’s been coaching through the O‘ahu Pickleball Association for the past two years, and provides private lessons as well. With students, he focuses less on how to do something, and more on why. Here are his top tips:

KEEP YOUR PADDLE UP. A “Nasty Nelson” is when you get a point by intentionally hitting the player across from you during a serve— something that’s easy to do when up against beginning players who stand with their paddles at their sides. “Of course, a lot of people say that’s rude,” Rogers says. “But I teach them to try to hit [the receiver] because then that makes them understand that vice versa, someone’s gonna hit at them.

What do you got to do? Keep your paddle up. Make sure it’s ready.”

PLAY AT THE KITCHEN. If you’re

hitting the ball hard from the back of the court, your opponent’s going to softly drop it over the net into the kitchen before you can get to it. If everyone’s at the nonvolley line dinking it back and forth, all you have to do is wait for someone to lose control and pop it up so you can whack it down. “I always start teaching all my students with [the] understanding that it’s not trying to hit it hard from the start.”

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FEATURE IT’S EVERYWHERE!

A Pickleball Powerhouse?

“WE WANT TO PUT HAWAI‘I PICKLEBALL ON THE MAP,”

The Pickle Pros three months after giving birth, Jamie Haas of Maunawili entered her first Association of Pickleball Players tournament, in Arizona. A month later, the 31-year-old placed fourth in an APP Pro Singles event. Over the next two years, Haas achieved the world’s No. 19 ranking in women’s singles on the Professional Pickleball Association Tour—a stunning trajectory for anyone, let alone a mom of three who picked up the sport for fun.

The former UH Mānoa tennis player, a lefty, took up pickleball so she could play with work friends while living on the mainland. Her husband, Prycen, played, too. They decided to move home to Hawai‘i while she was pregnant, and during that time, he entered his first tournament. “He was like, ‘Oh my gosh, it’s amazing.

You have to do this after you give birth,’” she says. “He actually at one point was working three jobs just to allow me to travel and play because he believed that I could make it a full-time thing.”

After rubbing elbows with top players who make their living and support their families through pickleball, Haas says she and Prycen decided to go down the same path. It’s not easy to raise a family and travel the world, but the couple try to bring their kids to tournaments when possible. “Ultimately, we’re doing it for them,” Haas says. “Hopefully it opens doors for them, not just for us.” She tries to compete in 10 or 12 tournaments a year, finding herself in Florida one week, then India a few weeks later. She’s part of Canadian and Australian leagues, even though she’d never been out of the country before picking up the game.

Haas also hopes to one day get involved with an after-school program to build the next generation of players. “I think that would be awesome, because they have a lot of that on the mainland and I haven’t seen that so much yet here. But we’re off to a good start.”

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Haas says. “The better we do, I think it’ll build more traction for Hawai‘i, and hopefully put more money into the sport and the community.” She dreams of a Hawai‘i team that travels to tournaments off-island, with state support and sponsorships.

“When you have that support, the sky is the limit,” Haas says.

She also wants to see more local facilities, like the new Pickles at Forté.

Developed by Avalon Group, Pickles at Forté is the new pickleball center that replaced Walmart at Fort Street Mall in late January. It’s the first indoor facility here to focus solely on pickleball. Members can reserve six air-conditioned courts from 6 a.m. to midnight and there are changing rooms, two hours of free parking and free wi-fi, and plans to add bars and restaurants.

“There’s always going to be people who are not going to believe in you, who are not going to be necessarily behind you, because they don’t take the time to understand you,” Ching says. But she’s seen the power of pickleball in bringing multiple generations of people together. People generously share their equipment and knowledge, setting up nets and taping court lines for each other. They also volunteer for park cleanups and advocate for lights at outdoor courts to increase safety. That sense of community and connectedness is everything, she says. “The profile of a pickleball player is very giving in a lot of ways.”

In return, pickleball has been a lifeline for many people, pulling them out of isolation and promoting healthy lifestyles. “Pickleball is more than just a sport, it’s a way of life,” Maui’s Loney says. “It changes people’s lives, and I see it every day.”

NEED PEOPLE TO PLAY WITH? •

Open play hours allow players of all levels to hop in with whoever else is there, so even if you don’t have a partner, you can rotate in. Check individual parks for schedules.

•

If you want to arrange a game ahead of time, consider joining Facebook groups such as Love Hawai‘i Pickleball (2,200plus members) or Hawai‘i Pickleball Aloha Style (2,400plus members).

•

The O‘ahu Pickleball Association holds hosted open play (check meetup.com/oahu-pickleball-association) and other perks for members ($30 a year).

•

K2 Pickleball organizes league games in addition to lessons and clinics at Moanalua High School. k2tens.com

•

And don’t be surprised if other players just walk up to you with an invite to join them!

WHERE TO PLAY

Free Indoor Courts For indoor play, these district parks have gyms with free play hours specifically for pickleball: Koko Head (11.), Kailua (12.), Booth (13.), McCully (14.), Waipahu (15.), Kāne‘ohe (16.), Waialua (17.). Find each facility’s schedule at bit.ly/OahuPlaygrounds and filter by gymnasiums.

From public parks to private indoor courts, there are hundreds of places to volley across the island. Some top picks: Free Outdoor Courts

Private Courts

More than 188 pickleball courts are now available at 94 city parks. Here are some good options, with information on the number of courts with permanent nets ( ); the number of courts lined for only pickleball ( ) or other sports too ( ); and whether they have lights ( ).

Pickles at Forté (18.) opened in Downtown Honolulu in late January with six air-conditioned courts, changing rooms, free wi-fi and two hours of free parking during open play, daily from 6 a.m. to midnight. Members can have up to three 90-minute reservations per week. Membership starts at $125/month.

Scan the QR code for the full directory of city pickleball courts.

Solo pickleballers looking for practice walls can find them at 25 parks (the ones with the asterisks) here.

1.

Dole Community Park

2.

Ka‘ala Neighborhood Park

3.

Kailua District Park

4.

Kalākaua District Park

5.

Kamilo Iki Community Park

6.

Ke‘ehi Lagoon Beach Park

7.

Mānana Neighborhood Park (Shigeo Ushiro)

8.

Mother Waldron Neighborhood Park

9.

Petrie Community Park

10.

Waipi‘o Neighborhood Park

0 2 4 0 0 12 1 2 1 0

1 0 0 2 6 0 0 0 0 4

2 1 4 3 2 0 0 0 2 2

X X X X

X

fortedoho.com Wai‘anae Coast YMCA (19.) is open for play Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 to 11 a.m. if you join Pickleball+, free for Y members and $30 per month for nonmembers. Equipment is provided, and tai chi and active older adult group exercise classes are part of the program. ymcahonolulu.org/locations/ waianae-coast-y

23.

Beyond Ball Hawai‘i (20.) also has open play Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 to 11 a.m. at its three indoor courts in Kailua. It’s $12–$15 depending on which credit pack you purchase. beyondballhawaii.com 17.

If you have base access, rent a set of paddles, balls and a net for $10 a day at the Schofield Barracks Outdoor Recreation Center (21.).

2.

21.

hawaii.armymwr.com/programs/ oudoor-recreation-center 10.

GETT Y IMAGES, JAMES NAK AMURA

19.

7.

16.

20.

15.

22.

6.

4.

Join The Salvation Army Kroc Center in Kapolei (22.) for access to pickleball courts, including pickup games. Individual and family memberships are available. A general adult membership is $73 per month.

3., 12.

13.

1. 14.

18.

8.

5.

9.

11.

kroccenterhawaii.org Those not staying at the resort at Turtle Bay (23.) can still rent a court there for $50 an hour. turtlebayresort.com/things-to-do APRIL 2025

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A ARON K. YOSHINO

CAN WE RETURN TO AHUPUA‘A?

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FEATURE CAN WE RETURN TO AHUPUA‘A?

Can We Return To Ahupua‘a?

A movement is underway to resurrect the traditional Hawaiian land division and management system to better care for the ‘āina, water and people.

by D I A N E S E O

“This conversation is a bold one, but it’s time to be bold.”

—JOHN DEFRIES, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, MAUNA KEA STEWARDSHIP AND OVERSIGHT AUTHORITY

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FEATURE CAN WE RETURN TO AHUPUA‘A?

Ua mau ke ea o ka ‘āina i ka pono.

The life of the land is perpetuated in righteousness.

It’s the official motto of our state, the words of King Kamehameha III, and its message lies at the heart of a bold movement taking shape in Hawai‘i.

A prominent group of leaders has organized to resurrect the Islands’ traditional ahupua‘a and konohiki systems. Their calling: to better care for Hawai‘i’s natural resources and residents.

Ahupua‘a is a traditional Hawaiian land division and management system that took shape around A.D. 1200 and remained in place until the Great Mahele of 1848, when the Kingdom of Hawai‘i transitioned from a communal land system to one of private ownership. Its guiding principle is that land, water and all of nature are interconnected, so they must be managed synergistically, with care. Under the system, the Hawaiian Islands were structured into approximately 725 ahupua‘a, each being ecologically self-sustaining, and extending from the mountains to the sea, mauka to makai.

“In Hawai‘i’s history, water was considered sacred. The rains fed rivers and streams, which flowed down from the mountains,” says Kamana‘opono Crabbe, one of the movement’s organizers. “Our ancestors were highly knowledgeable of that system and preserved Hawai‘i as a pristine habitat.”

Konohiki was the governing system of ahupua‘a, led by a chief and council of leaders tasked with managing natural resources to ensure people had ample food, clean water, places to 34

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live and more. Leaders of each ahupua‘a had to intrinsically understand and adhere to nature’s flow to successfully tend to watersheds, fishponds, forests and agricultural lands. Doing so ensured that invasive species didn’t run amok, fishponds weren’t disrupted, and crops were abundant.

“It was a symbiotic balance of making sure that if we take care of nature, it will take care of us,” says Stacy Ferreira, CEO of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, who took part in a recent talk about ahupua‘a.

While ahupua‘a and konohiki worked in Hawai‘i’s past, questions linger. Can ancient systems be applied in modern day Hawai‘i and coexist under the state’s current government? Likewise, would the people of Hawai‘i support going back to traditional Hawaiian ways of mālama ‘āina, or caring for the land?

How the Discussion Began Conversations about ahupua‘a have been taking place through the Hawai‘i Executive Collaborative, a consortium of business, government and community leaders that devises solutions for the state’s most urgent problems. (HEC chairman Duane Kurisu owns aio, the parent company of HONOLULU.) HEC participants— essentially a who’s who of Hawai‘i leaders—have been meeting in recent years both at an annual conference and at organized “accelerators” as part of an overall effort called “Rediscovering Hawai‘i’s Soul.” In January, a newly formed ahupua‘a team met for two days at an accelerator at the East-West Center. The resurrection of ahupua‘a was among four topics tackled by different teams of leaders representing a wide range of industries and organizations.

Yet such talks are nothing new.

For years, Native Hawaiian leaders have been advocating a return to traditional practices to repair damage they say has occurred in modern times.

It came up in 2014, during

the highly divisive debates over Maunakea. Critical of plans to construct the Thirty Meter Telescope atop a sacred mountain, Native Hawaiians accused the government of mismanaging Hawai‘i’s lands and natural resources. This led to other contentious discussions about the still-unresolved future of Hawai‘i’s Kingdom Lands, also known as ceded lands. Then in 2023, with government and other entities targeted for blame after wildfires tore through Lahaina, calls to resurrect the ahupua‘a grew even louder.

The argument: In Hawai‘i’s past, with ahupua‘a and konohiki systems in place, up to a million residents were able to live sustainably on the Islands, which is no longer the case.

“By compromising our watersheds and environment, we’re now importing the majority of our food, and water is scarce. The traditions of our ancestors are night and day from what government has implemented, and we’ve gotten out of harmony with how nature flows,” Crabbe says.

Time for Radical Change That was the resounding sentiment among the group gathered in January to discuss ahupua‘a and konohiki, including John DeFries, executive director of the Mauna Kea Stewardship and Oversight Authority and former CEO of the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority.

“This conversation is a bold one, but it’s time to be bold,” he said at the gathering.

It’s clear Hawai‘i’s most urgent problems are upending lives. The high cost of living and particularly the lack of affordable housing has led to an ongoing, dramatic outflow of residents—40,000 people in 2024 alone. And according to Aloha United Way’s 2024 “ALICE” report, 37% of Hawai‘i’s residents are considering leaving, while 4 in 10 residents are struggling to make ends meet.

Hawai‘i also imports 90% of its food and goods, despite a statewide push toward sustainability.

FEATURE CAN WE RETURN TO AHUPUA‘A?

PRE-MĀHELE MOKU AND AHUPUA‘A

Prepared

by Hawaiian Studies Institute, Kamehameha Schools, 1987

As far as our ‘āina, it’s not healthy, the leaders say. O‘ahu’s Red Hill crisis revealed the vulnerability of our water systems when jet fuel leaked from an underground military storage facility into the freshwater aquifer, contaminating drinking water.

And in Lahaina, unmaintained, overgrown vegetation was partly to blame for the quick spread of the wildfires.

“Individuals in our community feel they are no longer able to survive here or take care of their families, find jobs and places to live,” says Ulalia Woodside Lee, director of The Nature Conservancy, Hawai‘i and Palmyra, and part of the ahupua‘a team. “Our natural environment is facing challenges, too. We face consequences like the runoff of topsoil into streams and ocean, wildfires or fires near urban places like Lahaina, and agriculture crops are under attack from invasive bugs.”

Unless dramatic changes take place, these and other issues are likely to get worse, she and other leaders say.

“Can We Design a New Hawai‘i?”

It’s a question raised by Corbett Kalama, part of the ahupua‘a team and president and CEO of RESCO Inc., parent company of real estate firm Locations.

Under the traditional konohiki system, installing competent leaders was critical. Each ahupua‘a was led by a paramount or top chief (ali‘i nui) along with several councils of chiefly leaders (mau ‘aha ali‘i). They were selected, according to Crabbe, because of their good character (‘ōpūali‘i, na ‘auali‘i) and honorable stewardship of land, ocean, water and people. If the chiefs did not serve well, they were removed from power.

The goal of chiefs was to grow mana, he adds. They had to be na‘auao (enlightened, highly intellectual, virtuous, moral) with na‘au (the seat of the Hawaiian mind), and they had to exhibit hanapono (proper behavior, etiquette, protocol). They focused on the welfare of the people for the benefit of the community.

Not So Far-Fetched While today, all of that may seem more idealistic than realistic, there are several examples of ahupua‘a practices in place. These are just a few:  IN THE EARLY 2000s, THE NATURE CONSERVANCY, UH AND THE STATE joined forces to clear invasive

algae from Kāne‘ohe Bay’s coral reefs.

They successfully vacuumed algae off the reef and brought in native sea urchins to prevent it from growing APRIL 2025

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FEATURE CAN WE RETURN TO AHUPUA‘A?

back. After considering the causes of the problem, they decided better management was needed upland as well, a key ahupua‘a principle. Community groups then set out to restore the health of the whole He‘eia ahupua‘a, providing a model for largescale restoration through traditional Hawaiian practices. “We’re restoring traditional systems, lo‘i systems, for the potential of growing food for the community,” says Hi‘ilei Kawelo, executive director of Paepae o He‘eia, a group that’s restoring the He‘eia fishpond. “Our inspiration, drive and passion is our history and what our kūpuna did. It’s an 800-year-old fishpond. We want it to work again, so the 36

HONOLULU MAGAZINE

fishpond can feed the community and provide an ecological benefit.”  THE WAIPĀ FOUNDATION ON KAUA‘I, meanwhile, has been stew-

arding the 1,600-acre Waipā ahupua‘a, along Hanalei Bay, under a lease from landowner Kamehameha Schools. Through various programs, the organization cites its mission as restoring Waipā’s vibrant natural systems and resources through Hawaiian values and ahupua‘a practices.  AND ON MOLOKA‘I, NATIVE HAWAIIAN ACTIVIST WALTER RITTE,

part of HEC’s ahupua‘a team, says his organization, ‘Āina Momona, works

under principles of ahupua‘a, managing land and water to ensure the health of the island’s ecosystem. (See story on page 40.)

But There Are Obstacles Yet, even with motivated and organized community members, reinstating a complete ahupua‘a system—from mauka to makai, with konohiki governance—requires an overhaul of Hawai‘i’s current land systems, not a simple undertaking to say the least.

Hawai‘i’s lands are now owned and managed by multiple entities— government, trusts, businesses, and

FEATURE CAN WE RETURN TO AHUPUA‘A?

military, whose bases comprise thousands of acres; leases on some of those lands come up for renewal in 2028. Then, of course, there are large landowners like Kamehameha Schools and Alexander & Baldwin.

Meanwhile, about 200,000 acres are designated as Hawaiian home lands, administered by the state to provide leased land to Native Hawaiians.

COURTESY: PAEPAE O HE‘EIA

What About Ceded Lands?

both large and small landowners. After the Great Mahele, landownership wasn’t parceled by ahupua‘a, so each ahupua‘a likely has multiple owners.

The state’s Department of Land and Natural Resources oversees nearly 1.3 million acres of Hawai‘i’s lands, beaches and coastal waters, along with 750 miles of coastline.

This includes state parks, historical sites, forests, public fishing and hunting areas, and natural sanctuaries. DLNR also manages watersheds, along with the Board of Water Supply.

Along with state ownership, Hawai‘i counties and the U.S. government oversee thousands of acres of their own. Add to this the U.S.

Amid this complex network of landownership lies the unresolved, volatile issue of Kingdom Lands. Some 1.8 million acres of Kingdom Lands belonged to the Hawaiian Kingdom before the illegal overthrow of Hawai‘i in 1893. After being ceded to the U.S. in 1898, 1.4 million acres were transferred back to Hawai‘i in 1959 when it became a state. (The federal government kept 374,000 acres for military bases and national parks.) The lands were designated in a public trust intended to benefit the people of Hawai‘i and Native Hawaiians, and OHA was established in 1978 to administer 20% of the share of Public Land Trust revenues to Native Hawaiians.

Since 2014, OHA has been working on a Kingdom Lands inventory to ensure that Native Hawaiians get their fair share of revenues, but the group has run into numerous roadblocks while trying to compile an accurate, comprehensive list, says Ferreira, the agency’s CEO. The issue over ceded lands ties into the ahupua‘a discussion because there will be no return to ahupua‘a without land. And because these lands were designated in a trust to benefit Native Hawaiians and the people of Hawai‘i, those pushing to reinstate ahupua‘a believe at least some ceded lands could potentially be utilized in this capacity. The leaders who convened in January discussed lobbying DLNR—whose domain includes a good portion of Kingdom Lands—to adopt “ahupua‘a or stewardship zoning,” as a feasible way forward.

DLNR: Partner or Obstacle?

Throughout the two days of ahupua‘a talks, DLNR’s stewardship of Hawai‘i’s land and natural resources was questioned. It’s an issue that last year led some community members and lawmakers to call for the resignation of DLNR Chair Dawn Chang, citing mismanagement.

Chang was invited to the recent ahupua‘a discussion, but the legislative session kept her from attending.

Nevertheless, in a later interview, she expressed her support for the adoption of traditional Hawaiian practices, saying she sees such methods as being “vital to how land is managed in Hawai‘i.” DLNR, she says, has numerous partnerships already in place with ‘āina-based community organizations—such as Paepae o He‘eia and Hui Maka‘āinana o Makana, which stewards Hā‘ena State Park on Kaua‘i—and wants to establish more. “I see ‘āina-based management as natural, instinctual and culturally appropriate,” Chang says.

As far as adopting a true konohiki system, though, that won’t be easy.

Getting DLNR to relinquish control of its current management responsibilities is a hurdle, but Chang says she and others from DLNR want to improve the agency’s standing in the community through meaningful partnerships that allow groups to tend to lands and water where it makes sense.

“Native Hawaiians have not historically trusted the Department of Land and Natural Resources or government as a whole, because we haven’t created an environment of shared responsibility for change,” Chang says. “To change that dynamic, we need partnerships with our communities. That’s historically been a challenge for government agencies, but as we move forward, we’re making a concerted effort so there is greater trust and collaboration to protect our resources.”

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FEATURE

Tktk photo caption tktk tktk

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AARON K. YOSHINO

CAN WE RETURN TO AHUPUA‘A?

FEATURE CAN WE RETURN TO AHUPUA‘A?

 ‘Ahu ‘ula (feather capes) like this one from the 19th century were worn by chiefs, or ali‘i, in Hawai‘i’s past.

Courtesy: Honolulu Museum of Art

“The lessons learned from multiple generations of living here can provide us a guide and a path to help us care for the land and our community.”

—ULALIA WOODSIDE LEE, DIRECTOR OF THE N AT U R E C O N S E R V A N C Y, H A W A I ‘ I A N D P A L M Y R A

People Have to Want Change Along with untangling land issues, Paepae o He‘eia’s Kawelo believes the people of Hawai‘i have to support the ahupua‘a way of life, even if it means altering habits.

“We can restore the system and grow the food, but is the community ready?” she asks. “Will our eating habits shift? It might mean paying more for poi that’s cultivated in the community. It might be paying more for fish that comes out of the fishpond. If I didn’t believe that’s possible, we wouldn’t be doing the work— we’re banking on it.”

What’s Next?

At the end of the two-day accelerator, leaders set goals, including involving more key leaders in future conversations. Among those key leaders would be Chang, from DLNR.

“I welcome the opportunity to be at the table with them,” Chang says.

“I’m optimistic there will be further opportunities for us to collaborate, talk story, share what we are doing. I know we’ll find that we all have a lot in common and can figure out how to maximize our limited resources for the maximum good for the people of Hawai‘i, and in particular, the Native Hawaiian population that has been disenfranchised by government for a long time.”

The group also plans to work with OHA as it continues to seek a comprehensive and accurate land inventory, which would bring clarity on Kingdom Lands. Those lands aren’t restricted as to how they’re utilized, unlike Hawaiian home lands.

Members of the ahupua‘a group agreed though that their objectives can’t be limited to advocacy for Native Hawaiians. The movement must benefit all of the people of Hawai‘i.

“Nurturing land is for everyone; so is the fight for it,” says Jon Osorio, dean of the UH Hawai‘inuiākea School of Hawaiian Knowledge.

Says Crabbe: “Hawaiians aren’t in the fight for ourselves. We’re looking out for the welfare of all the people of Hawai‘i.”

In the meantime, the leaders plan to study existing models of ahupua‘a at work to see what’s working and what’s not, and how they could be scaled up.

“We need to show everyone how we’re going to mālama our land, care for our precious water sources, preserve our oceans, and help all people thrive,” Crabbe says. “It worked in the past, so it can be done again. And we have to remember—to perpetuate righteousness, land must come first.”

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FEATURE CAN WE RETURN TO AHUPUA‘A?

Moloka‘i as a Model

This feather helmet was hand-woven in keeping with traditional artisan methodologies from ancient Hawaiian history.

by W A L T E R R I T T E , A S T O L D T O D I A N E S E O

COURTESY: SUSANNE KURISU

O

N MOLOKA‘I, a

third of our food comes from subsistence activity, and for our subsistence economy to flourish, we need to care for our reef. We have the largest contiguous reef system in the country. It’s 30 miles, and it was dying because of erosion coming off the land. We had to stop the erosion. The late Hawai‘i Sen. Daniel Inouye and Gov. John Waihe‘e visited Moloka‘i and saw our fishponds, and we got support from both of them.

So, more than 20 years later, we have a statewide group organizing fishpond restorations.

We’re working on a fishpond owned by Kamehameha Schools.

There was a nursery, then after a  big rain, mud came down the hillside and into the nursery.

Thousands of baby fish died because particles clogged Walter Ritte is a Native Hawaiian up their gills. For us to survive on Moloka‘i, we have to activist and take care of all our fishponds and bring life back into the executive director of the community ahupua‘a. We’re working with Kamehameha Schools to organization ‘Āina help stop the erosion coming into the fishpond. We’re also Momona. creating a workforce development plan to build facilities COURTESY: HAWAI‘I EXECUTIVE to train workers.

COLLABORATIVE The fishponds are not just to feed families; they’re also a nursery to stock the entire reef system. For us to have starches, we have to go back to traditional ways.

So, we’re removing cows and invasives, planting Hawaiian plants, stopping erosion and letting rainwater soak back into the aquifer.

DLNR (Department of Land and Natural Resources) purchased the ahupua‘a next to us. We told them they have the same problems we had with our ahupua‘a, so they came to visit a few months ago and liked what they saw.

They expressed interest in going to the state to ask for funding.

Back in the day, a million people could survive in Hawai‘i without harming the lands. People used to see me as an enemy. We stopped big tourist boats from coming and we fought against West Moloka‘i development. But now people see what’s happening on O‘ahu and other islands and talk positively about what we’re trying to do. Hopefully, we can be an example. You have to show people there’s a way.

AHA MOKU SYSTEM The movement to return to traditional Hawaiian practices of land and ocean management has a precedence. In 2007, then-Hawai‘i Gov. Linda Lingle agreed to establish an Aha Moku Council system on each island. Five years later, an Aha Moku advisory committee was formed under the state’s Department of Land and Natural Resources, with the goal of integrating Native Hawaiian values to sustain natural resources. Despite these efforts, the system was never fully implemented.

THE AHUPUA‘A TEAM A group of leaders, part of the Hawai‘i Executive Collaborative’s Rediscovering Hawai‘i’s Soul effort, came together for two days in late January to discuss the return of ahupua‘a.

Members of the group include: Kamana‘opono Crabbe, executive lead for Hawai‘i Executive Collaborative’s Rediscovering Hawai‘i’s Soul initiative John DeFries, executive director of Mauna Kea Stewardship and Oversight Authority Corbett Kalama, president/CEO of RESCO Inc., Locations’ parent company Duane Kurisu, chairman/CEO of aio, the parent company of HONOLULU Lynelle Marble, HEC executive director Jon Osorio, dean of UH’s Hawai‘inuiākea School of Hawaiian Knowledge Walter Ritte, Native Hawaiian activist and executive director of ‘Āina Momona John Waihe‘e III, served as Hawai‘i’s fourth governor from 1986 to 1994 Ulalia Woodside Lee, The Nature Conservancy’s director, Hawai‘i and Palmyra

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WALLIX /ISTOCK /GETT Y IMAGES PLUS VIA GETT Y IMAGES

SPE C I A L P R O M O T I O N A L S E C T I O N

P HOTO G R A PHY BY A A R O N K . YO S HI NO

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T H E FA C E O F

Food Distribution in Hawai‘i

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We love living our purpose every day, “Connecting the World to Share Food and Care for One Another.”

SPE C I A L P R O M O T I O N A L S E C T I O N

DRIVER IN TRUCK: Shiloh Tapasa ROW 1: Maile Dela Cruz, Karla Suarez, Lyn Agonoy, Sherie Lee, Blue Liberman, Shawnkevia Hill, Lei Saromines, Christine Corpuz, Jared Monoogan, Sarah Nguyen, Adell Flourry, Kumiko Yoshihara, Allan Cayetano, Christine Miyaji ROW 2: Mariah Fagafa, Felix Rivera, Eric Butler, Drue Uno, Chris Stilling, Jason Wong, Jeremy Kiaha, Anthony Pyun, Ryan Miller, Michael Wabinga-Maxwell, Asjhia Ate, Kiano Okinaga-Yee

APRIL 2025

2

SPE C I A L P R O M O T I O N A L S E C T I O N

Partners (L-R) Jared N. Kawashima Randall M.L. Yee

T H E FA C E O F

Trusts and Estates YEE & KAWASHIMA, LLLP 1000 BISHOP STREET, SUITE 908, HONOLULU (808) 524-4501 | YKLAWHAWAII.COM

W

HEN IT COMES TO PLANNING YOUR FUTURE, expertise and reliability are of paramount importance. Unlike larger, general practice law firms, Yee & Kawashima, LLLP concentrates in estate, trust and probate law.

Yee & Kawashima, LLLP takes pride in its many long-term client relationships with individual clients and family owned businesses. The firm’s commitment to this practice area offers the assurance that the firm will continue to provide the highest level of service for future generations.

SPE C I A L P R O M O T I O N A L S E C T I O N

(L-R) Thomas S. Kosasa, M.D. Celia Dominguez, M.D. Thomas Huang, Ph.D., HCLD, ELD

T H E FA C E O F

In Vitro Fertilization PACIFIC IN VITRO FERTILIZATION INSTITUTE KAPI‘OLANI MEDICAL CENTER FOR WOMEN & CHILDREN 1319 PUNAHOU STREET, SUITE 980 (808) 946-2226 | PACIFICINVITRO.COM

A

S HAWAI‘I’S FIRST IN VITRO CLINIC, Pacific In Vitro Fertilization Institute has helped

thousands of people realize their dream of starting a family. Led by a team of board-certified physicians with decades of experience in IVF, obstetrics and gynecology and reproductive endocrinology, as well as an on-site Ph.D. embryologist, Pacific In Vitro Fertilization Institute is committed to providing the highest level of care for patients.

The clinic is open seven days a week to be accessible and responsive to patients’ needs. Free monthly Zoom seminars are held for those with questions about the in vitro fertilization process and other alternatives for couples and individuals with fertility concerns.

SPE C I A L P R O M O T I O N A L S E C T I O N

(L-R) Daisuke Hamamoto - Executive Chef Antonino Fotia - Executive Pizzaiolo

2024 Best Italian Restaurant GOLD

Best Italian Restaurant GOLD

2022

2021

Best Italian Restaurant GOLD

Best Italian Restaurant GOLD

2019 Best Italian Restaurant GOLD

Best Italian Restaurant GOLD

T H E FA C E O F

ARANCINO RISTORANTE ITALIANO ARANCINO ON BEACHWALK 255 BEACHWALK AVENUE, HONOLULU (808) 923-5557 ARANCINO DI MARE 2552 KALĀKAUA AVENUE, HONOLULU (808) 931-6273 ARANCINO AT THE KĀHALA 5000 KĀHALA AVENUE, HONOLULU (808) 380-4400 ARANCINO.COM

Award-Winning Italian Restaurants

T

HE BEST ITALIAN CUISINE REQUIRES both a great chef and a pizzaiolo, who specializes in pizza making. It’s a traditional, cultural skill that takes years of training to perfect. With both a great executive chef and pizzaiolo, Arancino creates artfully crafted classic dishes with a modern twist.

Local and Italian-imported ingredients, masterful preparation plus a devotion to authenticity has made Arancino a winner of HONOLULU Magazine’s prestigious Hale ‘Aina Awards for twelve consecutive years, including its Gold win for Best Italian Restaurant.

Arancino is open nightly for dinner at all three locations, plus lunch in the heart of Waikīkī at Arancino on Beachwalk. Whether you’re exploring the Kalākaua Strip or relaxing at the beautiful Kāhala Hotel and Resort, savor the island’s best Italian at the award-winning Arancino family of restaurants.

SPE C I A L P R O M O T I O N A L S E C T I O N

(L–R) Dr. Rohinton Patel Dr. Ed Campbell

R) ef o

T H E FA C E O F

Sedation—Sleep Dentistry

D THE SEDATION DENTAL CENTER OF HAWAI‘I AT HAWAI‘I PACIFIC DENTAL GROUP 6770 KALANIANA‘OLE HIGHWAY, SUITE 216, HONOLULU SEDATIONDENTALHI.COM HAWAIIPACIFICDENTAL.COM

R. ROHINTON PATEL, joined by board-certified anesthesiologist Dr. Ed Campbell, leads The Sedation Dental Center of Hawai‘i at Hawai‘i Pacific Dental Group, Hawai‘i’s first and only dedicated full-spectrum sedation dental clinic for over 13 years.

For patients with dental phobia, special needs and other conditions that make traditional dentistry a challenge, sleep dentistry is a unique option for all ages that reduces patient fatigue, operating time and anxiety. Using the cutting edge anesthesia equipment and techniques tailored for outpatient dentistry that supersedes the highest of standards, dental treatments are completed efficiently and comfortably in the most professional and caring manner.

Dr. Patel is a graduate of Boston University, Cal State University, and completed his internship at Harvard University Vanguard Medical Associates and his post doctoral training at University of Massachusetts. Dr. Campbell is a graduate of University of Hawai‘i of Mānoa, Mount Sinai School of Medicine and completed his residency at Loma Linda University Medical Center.

SPE C I A L P R O M O T I O N A L S E C T I O N

RevoluSun executive team (L-R) David Gorman, President & General Manager Josh Powell, Chief Executive Officer Eric Carlson, Chief Innovation Officer

T H E FA C E O F

Solar and Smart Home Improvement

R

REVOLUSUN 660 ALA MOANA BOULEVARD, SUITE 220A, HONOLULU (808) 748-8888 | REVOLUSUN.COM

EVOLUSUN POWERS HAWAIʻI! As you navigate your daily routine, it’s highly likely that many of the businesses and products you encounter are influenced by a RevoluSun solar system, from mom-and-pop convenience stores and restaurants, to large banks, hospitals, and universities. This sentiment underscores the profound influence RevoluSun has had on Hawai‘i’s sustainability and business landscape over the years. Established in 2009, locally owned and operated RevoluSun has become the solar contractor of choice for 10,000+ homeowners and over 200 of Hawai‘i’s most beloved and iconic businesses. It’s not just about going solar; it’s about JOINING THE REVOLUSUN!!

SPE C I A L P R O M O T I O N A L S E C T I O N

(L-R) J. Blaine Rogers, III, Mark Davis, Aimee Lum, Kirsten Fisher, Loretta Sheehan, Michael Livingston, Chase Livingston, and Hannah Matsunaga

T H E FA C E O F

Personal Injury Litigation DAVIS LEVIN LIVINGSTON TOPA FINANCIAL CENTER 745 FORT STREET, SUITE 1550, HONOLULU (808) 524-7500 | DAVISLEVIN.COM

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OR THE PAST FORTY-FIVE YEARS, the lawyers at Davis Levin Livingston have obtained

record-setting verdicts for their clients in personal injury, medical malpractice, and commercial litigation. Its partners have been nationally recognized for their skill in the courtroom and as leaders in the trial bar. Aside from battling for their clients in the courtrooms of Hawai‘i, they donate a portion of their annual fees to The Davis Levin Livingston Charitable Foundation, dedicated to access to justice, including community efforts to support civil discourse, dispute resolution, the arts, and the preservation of democracy.

SPE C I A L P R O M O T I O N A L S E C T I O N

(L-R) Dr. Andrew Inaba Dr. Adam Inaba Dr. Craig Haga Dr. Wade Nobuhara

T H E FA C E O F

Endodontics ENDODONTIC ASSOCIATES, LLC HONOLULU | ALA MOANA BUILDING 1441 KAPI‘OLANI BOULEVARD, SUITE 208 | (808) 591-1515 ‘AIEA | MARY SAVIO MEDICAL PLAZA 98-1247 KA‘AHUMANU STREET, SUITE 218 | (808) 455-9051 ENDODONTICASSOCIATESLLC.COM

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OUNDED IN 1966 BY DR. CARL HAGA, Hawai‘i’s first dentist trained in endodontics, Endodontic Associates LLC uses state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge technology in a stress-free environment. Best Dentists honoree Dr. Craig Haga (son of Dr. Carl Haga), nephews Dr. Adam Inaba and Dr. Andrew Inaba, and associate Dr. Wade Nobuhara are committed to staying at the forefront of the industry to provide you with the personalized treatment and excellent customer service you deserve. This March, the practice proudly welcomed Dr. Whitney Torigoe Smith, Endodontic Associates’ newest team member, who brings 10 years of military service as a US Navy dental officer.

“As a local, three generational family practice, we take the extra steps to treat every patient like family and ensure they receive comfortable, patientcentered and up-to date care,” says Dr. Craig Haga.

Endodontic Associates LLC serves patients at two convenient locations: the Ala Moana Building and the Mary Savio Medical Plaza in ‘Aiea.

SPE C I A L P R O M O T I O N A L S E C T I O N

(L-R) Emily Goulet, M.D. John Frattarelli, M.D., HCLD Anatte Karmon, M.D.

T H E FA C E O F

Reproductive Medicine

T FERTILITY INSTITUTE OF HAWAI‘I 1585 KAPI‘OLANI BOULEVARD, SUITE 1800, HONOLULU PHONE (808) 545-2800 TEXT (808) 855-6932 IVFCENTERHAWAII.COM

HE FERTILITY INSTITUTE OF HAWAI‘I (FIH) HELPS TURN DREAMS OF PARENTHOOD INTO REALITY. Each day, an average of two babies are born in Hawai‘i through FIH’s

advanced fertility treatments.

Renowned for exceptional success rates, FIH offers cutting-edge services, including fertility diagnosis, intrauterine insemination (IUI), in vitro fertilization (IVF), pre-implantation genetic testing (PGT), donor egg and sperm IVF, surrogacy, and fertility preservation—all within a state-of-the-art facility.

With over 50 years of combined experience, Drs. John Frattarelli, Anatte Karmon, and Emily Goulet have helped more than 30,000 families. As board-certified specialists in reproductive endocrinology and infertility, they provide specialized, compassionate care. Recognized among the nation’s top fertility experts, they have made FIH the premier fertility clinic in Hawai‘i and the Pacific.

SPE C I A L P R O M O T I O N A L S E C T I O N

(L-R)

Todd K. Haruki, DDS, MD Neil Oishi, DDS, MD

T H E FA C E O F

Wisdom Teeth Removal PACIFIC MAXILLOFACIAL CENTER LLC HONOLULU | 1060 YOUNG STREET, SUITE 312 | (808) 585-8455 WAIPI‘O | 94-1221 KA UKA BOULEVARD, SUITE B204 | (808) 676-9560 PACIFICMAXCENTER.COM

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HONOLULU MAGAZINE

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OR MOST PEOPLE, THE REMOVAL OF THIRD MOLARS

(“wisdom teeth”) is necessary for the proper alignment and long-term health of their remaining teeth. This is ideally done in the teenage years to minimize the risks and discomfort associated with the procedure. While most patients request to be asleep for their procedure, several anesthetic options are available based on each patient’s needs and desires. As oral and maxillofacial surgeons, Dr. Todd Haruki and Dr. Neil Oishi are uniquely qualified in treating wisdom teeth. The latest digital technology enables them to provide exceptional care in a safe and comfortable environment.

2025

SUMMER PROGRAMS GUIDE 58 ACADEMIC, ENRICHING AND INSPIRING OPTIONS FOR YOUR KEIKI.

Reagan at Kuli‘ou‘ou Neighborhood Park

2025 SUMMER PROGRAMS

Summer Programs Guide K E Y: S C H O O L FO C U S & O F F E R I N G S ACADEMIC SUPPORT math/reading/tutoring

CHILD CARE newborn to Pre-K

YEAR-ROUND ENRICHMENT sports/dance/music/etc.

SUMMER FUN/DAY CAMP daily/week-to-week/hourly enrollment

ASSETS SCHOOL SEE AD ON PAGE 59

One ‘Ohana Nui Way, Honolulu, 96818

CONTACT / PHONE EMAIL WEB Cindy Herndon / (808) 423-1356 cherndon@assets-school.org assets-school.org/extendedlearning

GRADES GENDER K–12 Coed

PROGRAM DATES 6/2–7/25

HOURS

7:40 a.m.–4 p.m.

Early morning care starts at 6:30 a.m. for K–8 programs.

TUITION DEADLINE $1,300 and up Register by May 15.

Calling all creative thinkers entering grades 9–12! In Assets Great Minds Academy, students turn ideas into products, pitch to investors, and master marketing—earning 0.5 elective credit. Our K–8 Summer Program offers engaging learning in a supportive community, with options like Art Academy, Band Camp and Sports Camp. Ke Kula Pa‘ani summer camp features sports, games, art and science. Early morning care starts at 6:30 a.m. for our K-8 summer school programs and after care is available until 5:30 p.m.

CAMP MOKULĒ‘IA SEE AD ON PAGE 66

68-729 Farrington Highway, Waialua, 96761

Tara Lee Tani / (808) 637-6241 tara@campmokuleia.org campmokuleia.org

1–12 Coed

6/15–6/20, 6/22–6/27, 6/22–6/24, 7/6–7/11, 7/13–7/18

Overnight weeklong camp programs

$300–$550 Register by 6/6.

Located on the beautiful North Shore of O‘ahu, Camp Mokulē‘ia began providing children and youth with summer camp experiences in 1947. While attending one of our residential camps, campers have the opportunity to build meaningful connections with peers, gain confidence, and learn more about themselves and the world around them. Campers will be able to participate in activities such as swimming, paddle boarding, kayaking, arts & crafts, group games, team building, ropes course, and hiking.

CITY & COUNTY OF HONOLULU DEPT. OF PARKS & RECREATION SUMMER FUN PROGRAM

Shana Macadangdang / (808) 768-3041 s.macadangdang@honolulu.gov honolulu.gov/parks

K–6 Coed

6/9–7/25, except 6/11 and 7/4

Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–2 p.m.

Select sites provide before/after program care.

Registration fee: $25 Activity fee: up to $125 Register by 7/5.

CITY & COUNTY OF HONOLULU DEPT. OF PARKS & RECREATION SUMMER FUN JUNIOR LEADER PROGRAM

Shana Macadangdang / (808) 768-3041 s.macadangdang@honolulu.gov honolulu.gov/parks/program/ summer-fun-program.html

K–12 Coed

6/9–7/25

Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–4 p.m. except holidays

Varies Register by 6/30.

DA DREAM LAB

Asia Di Antonio / (808) 201-0913 adiantonio@kidzart.com dadreamlab.com

Younger than PreK–12 Coed

6/2–8/15, various themes weekly

Monday–Friday Early care from 8 a.m.–9 a.m.

Camp hours from 9 a.m.–2:30 p.m.

After care from 2:30–5 p.m.

Costs average $380 a week depending on age and program Register by 8/15.

HALE KEIKI SCHOOL SUMMER PROGRAM

Jolynn Komoda / (808) 423-1727 jolynn.komoda@nhks.org halekeikischool.org

Younger than Pre-K–6 Coed

Session 1: 6/9–6/27 Session 2: 6/30–7/18

7:30 a.m.–noon Drop-off at 6 or 7 a.m. or pickup from noon–6 p.m. available for an extra fee.

See website for programs Register by 6/1.

HANAHAU‘OLI SCHOOL

Lisa Kimsey / (808) 204-0663 lkimsey@hanahauoli.org hanahauoli.org/summerschool

Pre-K–4 Coed

Summer School: 6/16–7/18 Discovering STEAM Summer Camp: 7/21–7/25

Half day: 8 a.m.–noon Whole day and camp: 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

Half day: $1,300 Whole day: $2,450 Camp: $650 Register by 4/30.

Various city parks across O‘ahu, 1000 Ulu‘ōhi‘a St., Kapolei, 96707

1000 Ulu‘ōhi‘a St., #309, Kapolei, 96707

905 Kalaniana‘ole Highway, #3304, Kailua, 96734

SPONSORED LISTING

153 Bougainville Drive, Honolulu, 96818

1922 Makiki St., Honolulu, 96822

Hanahau‘oli Summer School invites students from JK to 4th grade to engage in play and learning through interdisciplinary units themed “Voyage of Discovery,” from June 16 to July 18. In both morning and full-day programs, children will enjoy age-appropriate, interactive experiences while honing foundational skills. The Skills We Need program for HIDOE 2nd and 3rd graders is offered tuitionfree to qualified students. ‘Ohana Arts Musical Theatre Workshop completes the course offerings. Registration opens March 4.

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HONOLULU MAGAZINE

FOCUS

SCHOOL/PROGRAM ADDRESS

SUMMER SCHOOL monthlong/multiple consecutive weeks

SCHOOL/PROGRAM ADDRESS

CONTACT / PHONE EMAIL WEB

GRADES GENDER

PROGRAM DATES

HOURS

TUITION DEADLINE

HANALANI SCHOOLS KA IMI LOA SUMMER PROGRAM

Susanne Martin / (808) 625-0737 summerprogram@hanalani.org hanalani.org/academics/additionalprograms/summer-program

Pre-K–6 Coed

6/9–7/18

Summer program: 8:30 a.m.–2 p.m.

(Classes open at 8 a.m. and program starts at 8:30 a.m.)

Before-school care: 6:15–8 a.m. (additional fee) After-school care: 2:15–5:30 p.m. (additional fee)

$1,670 Register by 5/30.

HANALANI SCHOOLS UPPER SCHOOL

Cynthia Kehler / (808) 625-0737 upperschool@hanalani.org hanalani.org/academics/additionalprograms/summer-program

7–12 Coed

6/9–7/18

8 a.m.–2:15 p.m.

Full-credit courses: $1,540 Half-credit courses: $770 Register by 6/2.

HAWAI‘I NATURE CENTER’S SUMMER 2025 O‘AHU NATURE ADVENTURE CAMP

Robin Chapin / (808) 955-0100 nac@hawaiinaturecenter.org hawaiinaturecenter.org

K–6 Coed

6/2–8/15, except 6/30–7/4

8 a.m.–3 p.m.

Member rate: $420 Nonmember rate: $495 Register by Aug. 16.

HAWAI‘I PREPARATORY ACADEMY/SUMMER AT HPA

Patty Walker / (808) 881-4041 pwalker@hpa.edu hpa.edu/academics/summer-at-hpa

K–12 Coed

Ka Makani Keiki Camp (ages 5–10): 1-week sessions starting 6/16–7/25 Summer Academies (ages 11–17): 6/23–7/18

Daily, 8 a.m.–4 p.m.

Keiki camp: $550 per week Academies domestic boarding: $6,500 Day: $2,050 Register by 5/31.

HAWAI‘I BAPTIST ACADEMY

Misty Mason / (808) 545-4485 supplemental_programs@hba.net hba.net/outreach/summer-school

Pre-K–12 Coed

Grades JK–12 (noncredit courses): 6/9–6/27 Grades 9–12 (HBAonly credit courses): 6/9–7/1

Grade JK: 7:55 a.m.–5 p.m.

Grade K: 7:55 a.m.–2:30 p.m.

Grades 7–12: various class times

Varies Register by 4/11.

HAWAI‘I CHILDREN’S DISCOVERY CENTER

Kyra Mirikidani / (808) 524-5437 kyra@discoverycenterhawaii.org discoverycenterhawaii.org

Pre-K–6 Coed

6/2–8/22

8:30 a.m.–4 p.m.

$350–$425 depending on camp Register by 8/15.

HAWAI‘I YOUTH SYMPHONY & PACIFIC MUSIC INSTITUTE

Rachel Schultz / (808) 941-9706 admin@hiyouthsymphony.org hiyouthsymphony.org

2–12 Coed

Multiple programs between 6/2–7/13

Varies

Varies Register by 5/30.

94-294 Anania Drive, Mililani, 96789

94-294 Anania Drive, Mililani, 96789

FOCUS

2025 SUMMER PROGRAMS

2131 Makiki Heights Drive, Honolulu, 96822

65-1692 Kohala Mountain Road, Waimea, 96743

21 Bates St., Honolulu, 96817

111 Ohe St., Honolulu, 96813

SEE AD ON PAGE 68

1350 S. King St., Suite 201, Honolulu, 96814 Experience the joy of music with Hawai‘i Youth Symphony! Whether you’re picking up an instrument for the first time or ready to shine in an advanced orchestral, wind or jazz ensemble, there’s something for everyone. Open to students ages 8–18, our programs welcome all who share a love for music. Those without an instrument may borrow from our library as needed. To ensure accessibility, financial aid is also available. Come make music, friends and memories!

5286 Kalaniana‘ole Highway, Honolulu, 96821

Kelly Goheen / (808) 373-3232 kgoheen@holynativityschool.org holynativityschool.org/community/ summer-program-2025.cfm

Pre-K–4 Coed

Session I: 6/2–6/27 Session II: 6/30–7/25

Half day: 8 a.m.–noon Full day: 8 a.m.–3 p.m.

After-school care program: 3–5 p.m.

Varies Register by 5/2.

SPONSORED LISTING

HOLY NATIVITY SCHOOL

This summer at Holy Nativity School, students will enjoy academic enrichment, hands-on exploration, and plenty of structured and free play—all with a low student-to-teacher ratio! Session I: Adventure Around the World takes young learners on a journey through cultures, global cuisines, amazing animals and world explorers. Session II: Science & Imagination: STEAM Explorers dives into space, the ocean, inventing and magical worlds! Registration opens to the public on March 8—space is limited!

1728 Pali Highway, Honolulu, 96813

Jake Ausman / (808) 532-0522 jake.ausman@hongwanji.us hongwanjimissionschool.org

1–8 Coed

6/2–7/11

7 a.m.–5:30 p.m.

Varies Register by 5/6.

SPONSORED LISTING

HONGWANJI MISSION SCHOOL

Hongwanji Mission School offers a balanced program of academics in the morning and enrichment programs in the afternoon. The six-week program runs June 2–July 11 and is open to students entering grades 1–8 this fall. Morning subjects include language arts, mathematics through pre-algebra, sports, Japanese language and music. In the afternoon, mini-classes such as multicultural activities, art, swimming, basketball, martial arts, etc. are offered.

350 Ulua St., Honolulu, 96821

Meilani Dela Cruz / (808) 377-5471 summer@honoluluwaldorf.org honoluluwaldorf.org/curriculum/ summer-fun-program

Pre-K–6 Coed

6/9–7/16, except 6/11, 6/19 and 7/4

Before care: 7:30 a.m.– 8:30 a.m. (for an additional fee) Summer Fun program: 8:30 a.m.–3 p.m.

$425, prorated for shortened weeks Register by 5/2.

SPONSORED LISTING

HONOLULU WALDORF SCHOOL SUMMER FUN PROGRAM

Your child will enjoy practical, fun activities such as: cooking, baking, water and sand play, movement and field games, nature crafts, puppetry, reading, circus arts, farming, painting and handwork, as well as free and imaginative playtime. Our trained and enthusiastic staff will be caring for your child the entire time. Choose individual weeks or the full 5 ½ week session. Early-bird discount available— payment in full due by Friday, April 11.

APRIL 2025

55

SCHOOL/PROGRAM ADDRESS

GRADES GENDER

PROGRAM DATES

HOURS

TUITION DEADLINE

‘IOLANI SUMMER PROGRAMS

Melissa Matsuda / (808) 943-2262 spo@iolani.org iolani.org/summer

K–12 Coed

Core program: 6/16–7/25 Auxiliary program: 7/28–8/8

7:30 a.m.–5 p.m.

Varies Register by 5/9.

ISLAND PACIFIC ACADEMY’S SUMMER DAYS SUMMER SCHOOL

Katie Metz / (808) 674-3523 kmetz@ipahawaii.org islandpacificacademy.org/summer

K–12 Coed

6/2–7/25, except 6/11, 6/19, 7/4 and 7/23

Monday through Friday, 7:45 a.m.–5 p.m.

Varies Register by 5/16.

563 Kamoku St., Honolulu, 96826

SEE AD ON PAGE 65

CONTACT / PHONE EMAIL WEB

909 Haumea St., Kapolei, 96707

Make summer exciting with themed classes that prepare students for the next grade through reading, writing, and math—all wrapped in adventure! Kindergarteners start with Ready, Set, Kindergarten!, while older students explore Bluey, Dr. Seuss, The Boxcar Children, Harry Potter and Pokémon. Plus, creative minds can dive into art, drama, STEM, e-sports, Mandarin and more! Keep the fun going with our Extended Day Program. Enroll now—spaces fill quickly!

KAIMUKĪ CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

Kara Takata / (808) 732-1781 ktakata@kaimukichristian.org kaimukichristianschool.org

K–8 Girls

6/9–7/18

7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.

Varies Register by 4/10.

LE JARDIN ACADEMY

Katy Nakayama / (808) 551-3848 katy.nakayama@lejardinacademy.org lejardinacademy.org/enrichment/ summer-school

K–8 Coed

6/16–7/18

917 Kalaniana‘ole Highway, Kailua, 96734

Summer school classes: 8 a.m.–3 p.m.

After-school activities: 3–4 p.m.

$560 per class Register by 4/30.

MARYKNOLL SUMMER SCHOOL

Kelly Marrotte / (808) 952-7340 kelly.marrotte@maryknollschool.org maryknollschool.org

K–12 Coed

6/12–7/18, except 6/19 and 7/4

Grades K–8: 8 a.m.–12:15 p.m.

Grades 9–12: 7:45 a.m.–12:45 p.m.

$1,200 Register by 4/21.

MID-PACIFIC GLOBALX SUMMER PROGRAMS

(808) 973-5009 globalx@midpac.edu midpac.edu/the-center/globalexchange-academy/summer

Pre-K–12 Coed

Pre-K/Elementary/ Middle School 5-Week Program: 6/9–7/11, except 6/11, 6/19 and 7/4

Varies

Varies Register by 5/9.

1117 Koko Head Ave., Honolulu, 96816

1526 Alexander St., Honolulu, 96822

2445 Ka‘ala St., Honolulu, 96822

SEE AD ON PAGE 70

High School 6-Week Program: 6/9–7/18, except 6/11, 6/19 and 7/4 Pre-K/Elementary School Pueo Camp: 6/2–6/6, 7/14–7/18, 7/21–7/25, 7/28–8/1 eSports Camp: 7/14–7/18 Embark on an enriching summer experience with our diverse array of Summer Programs at Mid-Pacific! We have a variety of oncampus and virtual learning opportunities tailored for learners of all ages. Enroll in our 5- and 6-week programs for students in preschool to grade 12, or opt for 1- and 2-week classes designed to accommodate busy summer schedules. High School offerings include both credit and noncredit classes; and virtual classes for public school students needing to complete graduation requirements.

MONTESSORI COMMUNITY SCHOOL 1239 Nehoa St., Honolulu, 96822

Cari Suzuki / (808) 522-0244 admissions@montessorihawaii.org montessorihawaii.org/summer

Pre-K–6 Coed

2-Year-Old: 6/9–8/1

7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.

$925–$4,800 Register by 5/1.

Preschool & Kindergarten: 6/9–7/2

SPONSORED LISTING

Elementary: 6/9–8/1

MUSIKGARTEN HAWAI‘I

94-547 Uke‘e St., #207, Waipahu, 96797

Aki Miyashiro / (808) 388-4838 info@musikgartenhawaii.com musikgartenhawaii.com

Younger than Pre-K–12 Coed

Open for piano and vocal lessons every day!

Open daily, 9 a.m.–9 p.m.

Varies Register by 5/31.

‘OHANA ARTS SUMMER FESTIVAL & SCHOOL

Laurie Rubin / (866) 633-0430 laurie@ohanaarts.org ohanaarts.org/summer

3–12 Coed

6/9–7/20

7:50 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

$1,550–$2,850 Register by 5/9.

1770 East-West Road, Honolulu, 96822

‘Ohana Arts, in partnership with the UH Mānoa Department of Theatre & Dance, presents the 2025 Summer Festival and School at Kennedy Theatre. The program provides a unique opportunity for students ages 8–18 to study with world-class faculty and guest artists from around the country in music, dance and drama in an intensive 6-week program, culminating in a festival of fully staged musicals, recitals and showcase performances. Need-based scholarships and high school fellowships available.

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HONOLULU MAGAZINE

FOCUS

2025 SUMMER PROGRAMS

http

s://bit.ly /4b I

7E 5x

FREE

ht

s tp

on Y Family Memberships and Get up to 20% OFF on camps & classes

it.ly/YMCANow

Save $99

://b

Healthy Kids Day Saturday wApril 26

Summer at the Y— Epic. Rad. Totally Lit! No matter your generation, we’re turning up the fun for the most unforgettable summer ever—packed with adventure, new friendships, and moments that build skills, confidence, and resilience. No cap—just the best summer yet!

Adventures for All Ages • Summer Day Camps and Specialty Camps: Completed Grades K-5 • Summer Teen Programs - FREE this Summer: Completed Grades 6-11 • Camp Erdman Overnight Weekly Camps: Completed Grades 1-11 • Preschool & Early Learning Programs: Ages 2-5 • Swim Lessons: Ages 6 months to adult • Y Family Camp Staycations: All ages

Register Today Online: YMCAHonolulu.org

By Phone: 808-678-4296 • See website for program locations • Financial aid available https://bit.ly/49gDhHx

YMCA OF HONOLULU • YMCAHONOLULU.ORG

SCHOOL/PROGRAM ADDRESS

GRADES GENDER

PROGRAM DATES

HOURS

TUITION DEADLINE

PUNAHOU SCHOOL

Denise Harris / (808) 944-5737 summerprograms@punahou.edu punahou.edu/extended-learning/ summer-programs

K–12 Coed

Early Session: 6/9–6/13 Summer Session: 6/16–7/18 Extended Session: 7/21–7/25

Varies

Varies Register by 4/17.

QUICK STARS TUTORING

Tracy Lee / (808) 375-5244 quickstarstutoring@gmail.com quickstarstutoring.com

Pre-K–12 Coed

Year-round

Open daily

On website Year-round registration.

ROSARY PRESCHOOL

Sister Cecilia Fabular / (415) 812-0280 srmceciliafabular@gmail.com rosarypreschool.com

Pre-K Coed

6/3–7/3

94-1249 Lumikula St., Waipahu, 96797

Option 1: 7 a.m.–noon Option 2: 7 a.m.–3 p.m.

Option 3: 7 a.m.–5 p.m.

Option 1: $800 Option 2: $1,000 Option 3: $1,200 Register by 5/15.

ROY SAKUMA ‘UKULELE STUDIOS: KAIMUKĪ, ‘AIEA, MILILANI, KĀNE‘OHE

Michelle Matsumura / (808) 732-3739 lessons2@roysakuma.net roysakuma.net

Pre-K–12 Coed

Summer and yearround

Varies

Varies Register by June for summer classes.

1601 Punahou St., Honolulu, 96822

1806 S. King St., #35, Honolulu, 96826 94-1024 Waipi‘o Uka St., #201A, Waipahu, 96797

SEE AD ON PAGE 69

CONTACT / PHONE EMAIL WEB

3555 Harding Ave., Honolulu, 96816

SACRED HEARTS ACADEMY

Tiffany Kiyabu-Nishimura / (808) 734-5058 summerprograms@sacredhearts.org sacredhearts.org/summer-programs

Pre-K–12 Coed

Session I: 6/9–6/27 Session II: 6/30–7/18

Early Learning Center: 7:30–11:45 a.m.

Morning care: 7 a.m.

Full day: until 5:30 p.m.

Varies, starting at $325 Register by 6/3.

Grades 1–6: 8 a.m.–noon Afternoon summer program until 5:30 p.m.

SEE AD ON PAGE 64

3253 Wai‘alae Ave., Honolulu, 96816

‘Ukulele is for everyone! Roy Sakuma ‘Ukulele Studios is recognized as Hawai‘i’s foremost ‘ukulele school and authority on ‘ukulele instruction. Since 1974, Roy Sakuma’s unique method of instruction has brought the joy of music to thousands of students. The system is fast and most of all fun. Group and private lessons available at convenient locations in Kaimukī, ‘Aiea, Mililani and Kāne‘ohe.

Grades 7–12: varies depending on enrolled camps and courses The ACADEMY offers an array of quality options for BOYS and GIRLS from age 3 to grade 12 to try something new or build skills. Students from age 3 to grade 6 explore in the morning with an afternoon option to extend the experience. Credit and noncredit courses are available for grades 7 to 12. Special camps offer more focused activities. Learn more at www.sacredhearts.org. (See ACADEMY’S EARLY LEARNING CENTER for ages 3 to 5.)

SACRED HEARTS ACADEMY EARLY LEARNING CENTER

SEE AD ON PAGE 67

Pre-K–K Coed

Session I: 6/9–6/27 Session II: 6/30–7/18

Morning care: 7–7:30 a.m.

Day session: 7:30–11:45 a.m.

Varies depending on session; starts at approx. $450 Register by 6/3.

Day + extended summer program session: 7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.

SEE AD ON PAGE 67

SEE AD ON PAGE 64

3253 Wai‘alae Ave., Honolulu, 96816

Tiffany Kiyabu-Nishimura / (808) 734-5058 summerprograms@sacredhearts.org sacredhearts.org/summer-programs

ST. ANDREW’S SCHOOLS SUMMER ADVENTURE CAMP

224 Queen Emma Square, Honolulu, 96813

Summer means sun and fun! The youngsters in the ACADEMY’S EARLY LEARNING CENTER will make exciting discoveries—exploring, constructing fabulous creations by doing and Inspiring by sharing. Through engaging activities themed around “WATER,” BOYS and GIRLS ages 3 to 5 will grow knowledge and build foundational skills in reading, mathematics and more. A myriad of adventures are also on the agenda. Summer at the ACADEMY will be an experience young learners will never forget!

Randi Yamauchi / (808) 532-2464 programs@standrewsschools.org standrewsschools.org/ adventurecamps

K–8 Coed

7/21–8/8

Monday–Friday, 7 a.m.–4 p.m.

$130–$2,180 Register by 7/11.

St. Andrew’s Schools’ Summer Adventure Camp for students from kindergarten to grade eight offers inspired activities daily with fun skill-building exercises, team bonding, and opportunities for personal growth by exploring a different theme each week! St. Andrew’s Schools is a well-established educational institution with a rich history and a commitment to providing an excellent education. Located in beautiful downtown Honolulu, our school is dedicated to growing learners and leaders in a supportive environment.

ST. ANDREW’S SCHOOLS SUMMER SCHOOL

224 Queen Emma Square, Honolulu, 96813

Samantha Delgado / (808) 532-2464 programs@standrewsschools.org standrewsschools.org/summer

K–12 Coed

6/9–7/18

Monday–Friday, 7 a.m.–4 p.m.

$600–$1,600 Register by 5/30.

St. Andrew’s Schools’ Summer Program offers a dynamic educational experience for students entering grades K–12. With a variety of academic, arts and enrichment courses—including musical theater, digital art, STEM, cooking and LEGO electronics—students can catch up, get ahead, or explore new interests. Join us for an exciting summer of learning and growth at our convenient downtown location. Learn more at www.standrewsschools.org/summer.

STAR SUMMER ACADEMY SEE AD ON PAGE 71

4469 Malia St., Honolulu, 96821

Dave Eachus / (808) 734-0208 ssa@starofthesea.org starofthesea.org/star-summeracademy

K–8 Coed

6/16–7/18, except 6/19 and 7/4

6:45 a.m.–5:30 p.m.

$525 per session Morning care: $275 Afternoon care: $450 Register by 6/1.

Thrive this summer with our high-quality, affordable K–8 program, which offers a balanced mix of Academics, Sports and Enrichment activities. Starting at $22/day. Morning and after care available. Open to the public. STAR Summer Academy at Mary Star of the Sea School offers over 30 different courses conducted in fully air-conditioned rooms and on the central main lawn. Experienced teachers will provide opportunities for your child to thrive in a super fun and safe environment.

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HONOLULU MAGAZINE

FOCUS

2025 SUMMER PROGRAMS

SCHOOL/PROGRAM ADDRESS

GRADES GENDER

PROGRAM DATES

HOURS

TUITION DEADLINE

SUMMER AT SEABURY

Julie Landes / (808) 442-6196 seaburysummer@seaburyhall.org seaburyhall.jumbula.com

1–12 Coed

6/2–6/27

8 a.m.–3:30 p.m.

$250–$750 Register by 5/23.

SUMMER READING PROGRAM AT RAISING CANE’S WITH READ TO ME INTERNATIONAL

Details and registration at readtomeintl.org/events

Pre-K–4 Coed

At below Raising Cane’s locations: 6/7 and 7/5: Town Center of Mililani 6/14 and 7/12: Kapolei 6/21 and 7/19: Pearl City 6/28 and 7/26: Hawai‘i Kai Towne Center

10 a.m.–noon

Free Registration depends on event date

480 Olinda Road, Makawao, 96768

SEE AD ON PAGE 62

CONTACT / PHONE EMAIL WEB

Select Raising Cane’s restaurants

See your keiki open their imagination as educators lead two hours of interactive story time. Children will experience the joy of wonder as they’re guided through fun activities, silly games and lots of fun. Read to Me International will show parents techniques for how to effectively engage and read aloud to your keiki. Please register in advance. Walk-ins welcome as space permits.

SUMMER S.T.E.A.M. CAMP

Madison Badua / (808) 200-4242 info@hiiqlearning.com hiiqlearning.com

K–6 Coed

Weekly camps 6/2–8/8

8 a.m.–2 p.m.

On website Register by 7/28.

SYLVAN LEARNING OF MILILANI

Kai Lee Awaya / (808) 623-0808 kailee@sylvanmililani.com locations.sylvanlearning.com/us/ mililani-hi

Pre-K–12 Coed

6/4–7/31

9 a.m.–7 p.m.

Varies Register by 7/31.

THE RIPPLE EFFECT: MĀLAMA WAI & INNOVATION

Ali Beste / (808) 922-2744 abeste@lapietra.edu lapietra.edu/academics/la-pietrasummer-programs

6–12 Coed

6/9–7/3

9 a.m.–2 p.m.

$500 Register by 5/30.

THH SUMMER HORSE CAMP

Dana Vennen / (808) 342-9036 dana@thhwaimanalo.org thhwaimanalo.org/camps

K–6 Coed

6/2–6/6, 6/9–6/13, 6/16–6/20, 6/23–6/27, 7/7–7/11, 7/14–7/18, 7/21–7/25, 7/28–8/1

8:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m.

$400 Register by 7/28.

TRINITY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

Cynthia Nakamura / (808) 690-9543 cnakamura@tcskailua.net tcskailua.net/academics/summerprogram.cfm

K–6 Coed

6/2–6/27, 7/7–7/25

Regular day: 8 a.m.–2:30 p.m.

Varies Register by 5/15.

2752 Woodlawn Drive, 5-204A , Honolulu, 96822

95-1249 Meheula Parkway, #198, Mililani, 96789

2933 Poni Moi Road, Honolulu, 96815

SPONSORED LISTING

41-1062 Kalanaiana‘ole Highway, Waimānalo, 96795

875 Auloa Road, Kailua, 96734

Before-school care: 6:30–7:30 a.m.

After-school care: 2:30–5:30 p.m.

Enjoy a fun but educational summer program in Kailua, Maunawili Valley, which includes swimming daily for K–6 in the afternoon program. We offer Ready for Kindergarten, Fun Facts for First, and a variety of learning or crafts for rising second to sixth graders.

Program options will be available March 1. Registration is open April 1–May 15. Join the TCS ‘Ohana for a summer of learning and fun.

WINDWARD NAZARENE ACADEMY 45-232 Pua‘ae Road, Kāne‘ohe, 96744

Jovanna Aila / (808) 235-8787 jaila@windwardnazarene.com wnahawaii.com

Pre-K–7 Coed

6/9–7/3, except 6/11

K–Grade 7: 7:45 a.m.–3 p.m.

Extended care hours available at an additional expense

$1,000–$1,350 Register by 5/9.

Pre-K: 7 a.m.–5 p.m.

YMCA OF HONOLULU

SEE AD ON PAGE 57

1441 Pali Highway, Honolulu, 96813

Y Service Center / (808) 678-4296 info@ymcahonolulu.org ymcahonolulu.org

Younger than Pre-K–12 Coed

6/2–8/1

Varies

Varies. Save 20% with YMCA Family Membership. Financial assistance available.

Varies by program, but thanks to donors, Summer Teen programs are free this year.

Register by 8/1.

Adventure, discovery and endless fun await toddlers to teens! From preschool and day camps to swimming, specialty sports and science programs—along with overnight adventures at Camp Erdman—kids try new things, make friends, stay active and build confidence. And thanks to generous donors, teen programs are FREE this summer! Y Family members get up to 20% off. Not a member?

Join now and save $99! Financial aid is available. Register online or at any YMCA!

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HONOLULU MAGAZINE

FOCUS

2025 SUMMER PROGRAMS

SCHOOL/PROGRAM ADDRESS

CONTACT / PHONE EMAIL WEB

YMCA OF HONOLULU: CAMP ERDMAN

Drew Markey / (808) 637-4615 amarkey@ymcahonolulu.org camperdman.org

1–12 Coed

YMCA OF HONOLULU: KAIMUKĪ-WAI‘ALAE

Y Service Center / (808) 737-5544 info@ymcahonolulu.org ymcahonolulu.org

Younger than PreK–12 Coed

6/2–8/1

Varies

Varies. Save 20% with YMCA Family Membership. Financial assistance available.

Varies by program, but thanks to donors, Summer Teen programs are free this year.

Register by 8/1.

YMCA OF HONOLULU: KALIHI

Y Service Center / (808) 848-2494 info@ymcahonolulu.org ymcahonolulu.org

K–12 Coed

6/2–8/1

Varies

Varies. Save 20% with YMCA Family Membership. Financial assistance available.

Varies by program, but thanks to donors, Summer Teen programs are free this year.

Register by 8/1.

YMCA OF HONOLULU: LEEWARD

Y Service Center / (808) 671-6495 info@ymcahonolulu.org ymcahonolulu.org

Younger than Pre-K–12 Coed

6/2–8/1

Varies

Varies. Save 20% with YMCA Family Membership. Financial assistance available.

Varies by program, but thanks to donors, Summer Teen programs are free this year.

Register by 8/1.

YMCA OF HONOLULU: MILILANI

Y Service Center / (808) 625-1040 info@ymcahonolulu.org ymcahonolulu.org

Younger than Pre-K–12 Coed

6/2–8/1

Varies

Varies. Save 20% with YMCA Family Membership. Financial assistance available.

Varies by program, but thanks to donors, Summer Teen programs are free this year.

Register by 8/1.

YMCA OF HONOLULU: MILILANI—3D PRINTING MASTERCLASS: IMAGINATION TO CREATION

Y Service Center / (808) 625-1040 info@ymcahonolulu.org ymcahonolulu.org

3–7 Coed

6/2–8/1

Fridays, 10 a.m.–noon

Nonmembers: $400 Members: $320 Save 20% with YMCA Family Membership.

Financial assistance available.

Register by 8/1.

YMCA OF HONOLULU: MILILANI—SUMMER BASKETBALL – FULL SUMMER

Y Service Center / (808) 625-1040 info@ymcahonolulu.org ymcahonolulu.org

K–2 Coed

6/2–8/1

Mondays and Wednesdays, 2:30–3:30 p.m.

$350. Financial assistance available.

Register by 8/1.

YMCA OF HONOLULU: MILILANI—Y EXPLORERS CAMP – HANAUMA BAY

Y Service Center / (808) 625-1040 info@ymcahonolulu.org ymcahonolulu.org

K–6 Coed

6/14

8 a.m.–noon

$60. Financial assistance available.

Register by 8/1.

YMCA OF HONOLULU: MILILANI—Y EXPLORERS CAMP – PEARL HARBOR AVIATOR MUSEUM

Y Service Center / (808) 625-1040 info@ymcahonolulu.org ymcahonolulu.org

K–6 Coed

K–Grade 2: 6/6 Grades 3–6: 7/18

8 a.m.–noon

$60. Financial assistance available.

Register by 8/1.

YMCA OF HONOLULU: NU‘UANU

Y Service Center / (808) 536-3556 info@ymcahonolulu.org ymcahonolulu.org

Younger than Pre-K–12 Coed

6/2–8/1

Varies

Varies. Save 20% with YMCA Family Membership. Financial assistance available.

Varies by program, but thanks to donors, Summer Teen programs are free this year.

Register by 8/1.

69-385 Farrington Highway, Waialua, 96791

4835 Kīlauea Ave., Honolulu, 96816

1335 Kalihi St., Honolulu, 96819

94-440 Mokuola St., Waipahu, 96797

95-1190 Hikikaulia St., Mililani, 96789

GRADES GENDER

PROGRAM DATES 6/1–8/1

HOURS

Day Camp: 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

Overnight camp: Monday–Saturday

95-1190 Hikikaulia St., Mililani, 96789

TUITION DEADLINE

FOCUS

2025 SUMMER PROGRAMS

Day camp: Varies Overnight camp: $755.25 per week Specialty camps: Additional $299 to $399 Military, YMCA Family Membership, and multiweek discounts available. Financial assistance available.

Register by 8/1.

95-1190 Hikikaulia St., Mililani, 96789

95-1190 Hikikaulia St., Mililani, 96789

95-1190 Hikikaulia St., Mililani, 96789

1441 Pali Highway, Honolulu, 96813

APRIL 2025

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CONTACT / PHONE EMAIL WEB

SCHOOL/PROGRAM ADDRESS

GRADES GENDER

PROGRAM DATES

TUITION DEADLINE

HOURS

YMCA OF HONOLULU: NU‘UANU CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH DAY CAMP

Y Service Center / (808) 536-3556 info@ymcahonolulu.org ymcahonolulu.org

K–5 Coed

6/2–8/1

Varies

Varies. Save 20% with YMCA Family Membership. Financial assistance available.

Register by 8/1.

YMCA OF HONOLULU: PALI-NU‘UANU YMCA PRESCHOOL

Y Service Center / (808) 536-3556 info@ymcahonolulu.org ymcahonolulu.org

Younger than Pre-K– Pre-K Coed

Year-round

Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

Nonmembers: $1,496 per child Members: $1,346 per child Financial aid is available with up to a 60% discount for those who qualify.

Register by 8/1.

YMCA OF HONOLULU: PEARL CITY COMMUNITY CENTER DAY CAMP

Y Service Center / (808) 453-3677 info@ymcahonolulu.org ymcahonolulu.org

K–5 Coed

6/2–8/1

Varies

Varies. Save 20% with YMCA Family Membership. Financial assistance available.

Register by 8/1.

YMCA OF HONOLULU: WINDWARD

Y Service Center / (808) 261-0808 info@ymcahonolulu.org ymcahonolulu.org

K–12 Coed

6/2–8/1

Varies

Varies. Save 20% with YMCA Family Membership. Financial assistance available.

Varies by program, but thanks to donors, Summer Teen programs are free this year.

Register by 8/1.

1441 Pali Highway, Honolulu, 96813

Nu‘uanu Congregational Church, 2651 Pali Highway, Honolulu, 96813

2100 Ho‘oki‘eki‘e St., Pearl City, 96782

1200 Kailua Road, Kailua, 96734

SUMMER READING PROGRAM S SU UM MM ME ER R R RE EA AD D II N NG G P PR RO OG GR RA AM M

READ READ TO TO ME ME AT AT CANE’S CANE’S Every Saturday in June & July 10AM - Noon Saturday June & -- Noon Every Saturday in June Restaurants & July July 10AM 10AMon Noon atEvery select Raising in Cane’s Oahu at select Raising Cane’s Restaurants on Oahu at select Oahu JUNE 7Raising & JULY 5Cane’s Restaurants JUNE 21 &on JULY 19

7 & JULY 5 MILILANIJUNE | 95-1249 Meheula Pkwy JUNE 7 & JULY 5 MILILANI | 95-1249 Meheula Pkwy MILILANI | 95-1249 Meheula JUNE 14 & JULY 12 Pkwy JUNE 14 & JULY 12 St KAPOLEI | 717 Kunehi JUNE 14 & JULY 12 KAPOLEI | 717 Kunehi St KAPOLEI | 717 Kunehi St

JUNE 21 |&1240 JULY 19 St PEARL CITY JUNE 21 & JULYKuala 19 PEARL CITY | 1240 Kuala St PEARL CITY | 1240 Kuala JUNE 28 & JULY 26 St JUNEKAI 28 & JULY 26 HAWAIʻI Keahole JUNE 28 |& 333 JULY 26 HAWAIʻI KAI | 333 Keahole HAWAIʻI KAI | 333 Keahole

Mention the fundraiser at the Restaurant or apply code RCFUND96 to online Mention fundraiser at the and Restaurant code RCFUND96 to *online or appthe orders at checkout Cane’s or willapply donate 15% of Net Sales to: Mention fundraiser at the and Restaurant or apply code RCFUND96 to *online or appthe orders at checkout Cane’s will donate 15% of Net Sales to: READ TO and MECane’s INTERNATIONAL or app orders at checkout will donate 15% of Net Sales* to:

READ TO ME INTERNATIONAL READ TO ME INTERNATIONAL

Minimum donation amount will be 15% of the Net Sales* donated directly to your organization. Not valid on kiosk orders. *“Net Sales” means the purchase price of food and beverages sold during the event to customers who (i) mention your organization when ordering in person or (ii) use Minimum donation amount be 15%online of theor Net donated directly your organization.

Not valid special on kioskororders.

Sales” discounts, means the the code RCFUND96 whenwill ordering in Sales* the Raising Cane’s app.to The purchase price excludes limited*“Net time offers, purchase price of food beverages sold the event to customers mention yourNot organization when ordering inSales” personmeans or (ii) use Minimumand donation amount will be 15%not of theduring Net Sales* donated directly towho your(i)organization. valid on kiosk orders. *“Net the returns, taxes.

“Netand Sales” does include gift cards and retail merchandise purchases. the code RCFUND96 ordering online or in the Raising app. The purchase price excludes special or limited timeinoffers, purchase price of foodwhen and beverages sold during the event Cane’s to customers who (i) mention your organization when ordering persondiscounts, or (ii) use returns, taxes. “Net Sales” does not include cards and retailapp. merchandise purchases. the codeand RCFUND96 when ordering online or in gift the Raising Cane’s The purchase price excludes special or limited time offers, discounts, returns, and taxes. “Net Sales” does not include gift cards and retail merchandise purchases.

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HONOLULU MAGAZINE

RESERVE RESERVE YOUR SPOT RESERVE YOUR YOUR SPOT SPOT

FOCUS

2025 SUMMER PROGRAMS

B E ST

O

N

U

Playgrounds ounds O ‘A H

by H O N O L U L U F A M I LY CONTRIBUTORS photos by AARON K. YOSHINO

TKTK

Reagan’s favorite summer activities: “Hanging out with my friends, going to the beach and pool, and dancing!”

63

FEATURE BEST PLAYGROUNDS ON O‘AHU

This East Honolulu park boasts a great play structure and lots of green space to run wild.

T

HE WHOLE FAMILY CAN ENJOY THIS PARK,

even pets. It’s a great place to exercise, walk the dog and release energy, and if the kids get tired of the play structure, they can ride their scooters along the pathway through the park. They can also fly kites or just run around on the field.

PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT: The old play structure was replaced about six years ago, and the newer one has a slide, a short rock-climbing wall and other uniquely shaped ladders and bars to hang from. It’s a Biba playground, so you can download the Biba app to make it more interactive. The structure’s footbridge is a fun challenge for younger kids.

OTHER AMENITIES: The park has two tennis courts, a basketball/pickleball court and a sports field. The bathroom is clean but bring your own hand sanitizer.

There are two water fountains—one by the courts and play structure, and another by the bathroom. Other than one picnic table underneath a beautiful tree on the sports field side of the park, there’s nowhere to sit except the ground. So, if you plan to stick around awhile, bring a blanket. A short bridge over the Kuli‘ou‘ou Stream—often with a family of ducks waddling

ILLUSTRATIONS: SUPERBELK A /ISTOCK /GETT Y IMAGES PLUS VIA GETT Y IMAGES

Kuli‘ou‘ou Neighborhood Park

LOCATION: 516 Kuli‘ou‘ou Road

S

AT

J

FEATURE BEST PLAYGROUNDS ON O‘AHU

around in it—leads to the extra-large sports field. When it’s empty, it’s a great place to let the keiki burn away their last bits of energy.

BEST FOR: The playground equipment is probably best for ages 5–10, even though it says up to age 12. Younger kids, and especially toddlers, will likely need close supervision, especially across the footbridge and up the ladders.

BEST TIME TO VISIT: As with a lot of Honolulu playgrounds, this one is quiet during the middle of the day when kids are typically in school. You’ll see more keiki playing on the structure later in the afternoon when it’s in the shade, and by 5:30 p.m., people of all ages are on the courts.

PARKING: There is no dedicated parking lot, but street parking is usually available.

EXPLORE. CREATE. DISCOVER.

Summer DAYS

AT ISLAND PACIFIC ACADEMY

June 2 - June 27 June 30 - July 25

Spark your child’s imagination & curiosity this summer!

• Classes for students in grades K-10 • Themed adventures with Harry Potter, Pokémon & more • Creative art & music exploration • Science fun, STEM, and more!

Scan for more info!

• Extended Day Program

Sign up now – spaces fill quickly! islandpacificacademy.org | (808) 674-3523 | Kapolei

FEATURE BEST PLAYGROUNDS ON O‘AHU

Nu‘uanu Valley Park Breathe in, breathe out—this tranquil park surrounded by nature is the quiet break parents need during a busy week.

B

ECAUSE OF ITS LOCATION ACROSS FROM Daijingu Temple of Hawai‘i

and near the Queen Emma Summer Palace, this lovely green oasis is calm and Zen. A small parking lot close to the playground provides easy access, and enormous monkeypod trees offer shade at the picnic tables scattered across a sprawling grassy area. If your child’s in a scootering or skateboarding phase, take the ramp with a nice zigzag slope down toward the playground. Keep an eye on kiddos jumping off the ladder for the 100th time from six benches close to the playground structure.

If you walk past the basketball/pickleball court and toward the residential homes, a small hill leads to a tucked away field with more trees, roosters and sometimes ducks. It’s beautiful here—banyan trees, kalo, ferns, red ginger and all sorts of tropical plants abound. It’s a perfect place for a picnic and soaking in nature.

Activities Include:

Learn More & Register

Zip Line & Challenge Course Kayak & Paddle Boarding

SUMMER CAMP

Pool & Ocean Watersports Hiking Trips & More!

ird Early B n Ends: ratio Regist

2025 May 2,

begins June 15 for grades 1-12

Attend House our Open - April 13 Sav

e $50

With over 15 awesome activities and programs led by our trained and knowledgeable staff, it’s easy to create an unforgettable summer camp experience that fosters lifetime connections and memories! campmokuleia.org 66

HONOLULU MAGAZINE

FEATURE BEST PLAYGROUNDS ON O‘AHU

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LOCATION: 2925 Pali Highway PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT: The playground feels more like a climbing obstacle course. The structure itself is on the smaller side. You can get to the top by walking up the stairs or climbing a net, or you can scale the parallel bars, a rock-climbing wall or a curved ladder. On the outside wall of the stairs are small embedded rocks for more climbing opportunities. Underneath the structure is space for a small seat.

Across the stairs are monkey bars and a metal pullup bar with small handles for the little ones. Unlike some of our other favorite playgrounds, it’s painted in dark colors, so it feels a bit subdued.

OTHER AMENITIES: The bathroom is close to the playground; older kids can enjoy climbing the gigantic lower branches of the monkeypod trees.

BEST FOR: The playground sign says the equipment is appropriate for ages 5–12, but without a slide it’s a bit more advanced than other playgrounds.

BEST TIME TO VISIT: It’s always calm and nice on weekdays, from morning till noon.

PARKING: The parking lot here usually has a lot of space.

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FEATURE BEST PLAYGROUNDS ON O‘AHU

Booth District Park

PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT: This place features swings, saddle spinners and two colorful playground structures—one for younger kids and the other for older ones. They’re connected by a large red horizontal ladder. The smaller structure has green wavy double slides, wheels to “drive,” a series of bells you can ring and a small hideaway underneath. The larger structure is exciting, more challenging and just as fun. To get to the top of the structure’s tower and its longer red slide, kids can climb up steps, a ladder, a vine climber or a wave-walker climber. There’s also a pullup bar, a stand-alone steering wheel and a little zip line.

Abundant shade, swings and a mini zip line make this O‘ahu park a regular visit for local families.

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HEN IT COMES TO PLAYGROUND PLAYDATES, Booth

District Park in Pauoa is a great go-to. The vibe is chill, it’s free, and it requires minimal effort for a get-to-know-you, let’s-survive-parenthood-together outing. Tall trees with huge branches provide abundant shade for a picnic and/or coffee meetup, and there’s stress-free parking near the park. The playground is fenced and has one gate.

The park was renovated a few years ago and includes a spongy rubber ground cover that absorbs falls. And in the morning, you get front-and-center views of the garbage trucks and buses driving down the road—a big hit for little ones.

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LOCATION: 2331 Kaneali‘i Ave.

FEATURE BEST PLAYGROUNDS ON O‘AHU

OTHER AMENITIES: There are low benches, a fairly clean public restroom, garbage cans and a nearby water fountain. Besides the playground, there is a basketball court, a volleyball/pickleball court, a pool and a gymnasium. Across the way is a large grassy field with shaded picnic tables around the perimeter.

BEST FOR: The playground sign says the equipment is appropriate for ages 5–12.

BEST TIME TO VISIT: The park is relatively empty on weekday mornings; it can get busier after 11 a.m.

PARKING: There’s no lot, but residential street parking is easy to find.

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A giant spin wheel, rainbow road and swings make this park extra fun and vibrant.

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EAR KALANI HIGH SCHOOL IN EAST HONOLULU, Wai‘alae Iki

Neighborhood Park might be known for its vast green soccer field, but its playground is a must-visit. There’s an attractive rainbow design on the padded ground, a jungle gym and a giant blue spinning carousel. Two trees provide shade for a few picnic tables near the parking lot, and a bathroom and pavilion with more benches are closer to the playground.

PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT: One play structure has diagonal ladders, a metal rope, a rock-climbing wall along the outside of the steps, and a net that kids scramble across to reach the monkey bars. Closer to the bathrooms, there’s a red spin seat and another spin pole with a step to stand on, plus a spinning blue carousel. If you follow the rainbow road, it will take you to two swings.

And at the other end of the park, there’s another structure with ladders and a stainless-steel curved spinner.

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Email: globalx@midpac.edu

Visit us at midpac.edu

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Wai‘alae Iki Neighborhood Park

LOCATION: 4888 Anali‘i St.

FEATURE BEST PLAYGROUNDS ON O‘AHU

OTHER AMENITIES: The park has clean bathrooms (no soap or paper towels); water fountains; courts for tennis, pickleball (including a paddle rack), volleyball and basketball; trees with low branches to climb; and an enormous green field to run and play in.

BEST FOR: The climbing equipment and various spinning equipment are best for keiki 5 years and up.

BEST TIME TO VISIT: Mornings are good, but it doesn’t get too crowded even at 3 and 4 p.m.

PARKING: There is a parking lot with plenty of stalls.

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FEATURE BEST PLAYGROUNDS ON O‘AHU

Swing high at this Waikīkī park with plenty of shade and you might even see some giraffes.

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FAVORITE OF PARENTS AND KIDS ALIKE, this park under several

massive monkeypod trees near the base of Lē‘ahi is always busy— and your child will end up meeting a new friend to play with.

Families feel at home here, and that means plenty of picnics, kites and even birthday parties with bounce houses on the large field.

PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT: Similar to other play structures on the island, this park boasts two slides, monkey bars and a couple of climbing ladders. But the four swings are the highlight. If you swing high enough, you can peek over the fence of the Honolulu Zoo and see the giraffes—and chances are they’ll be looking right back at you.

OTHER AMENITIES: Parents can lounge on shaded benches or picnic tables adjacent to the play structure, with plenty of room for snacks, lunch or outdoor crafts. The park has a water fountain and bathrooms but no soap or paper towels, so bring your own.

The park pavilion hosts Department of Parks and Recreation classes and Summer Fun programs (registration required).

A large field and picturesque views of Lē‘ahi make this park a great venue for birthday parties. And yes, bounce houses are allowed, but you’ll need a permit. Since it’s located next to the Waikīkī Fire Station, fire engine sightings are also a highlight for keiki.

BEST FOR: The playground equipment is designed for ages 5–12, but toddlers much younger love exploring the park with parental supervision. Older kids can test out the swings for a little while, then coordinate a soccer game on the lawn with friends.

BEST TIME TO VISIT: If you like a quieter playtime, visit on weekday mornings; weekends are good if you don’t mind a crowd.

Thanks to the monkeypod trees, the play structure is always shaded, but the swing area gets sunny by midmorning.

PARKING: There’s no lot, but there’s plenty of parking along Lē‘ahi Avenue or on the neighboring streets.

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Pākī Community Park

LOCATION: 3503 Lē‘ahi Ave.

FOOD AND DRINK

BY M A R I TA K E TA

Nuevos Sabores Latinos

Welcome to a new world of Latin flavors from Central and South America.

OLIVIER KONING

Dishes at Peruvian Corner, clockwise from top left: aji de gallina, purple corn, flaming scallops, ceviche, lomo saltado

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PERUVIAN CORNER

HONOLULU’S LATIN FOODSCAPE

THERE’S A WONDERLAND quality to

restaurants, reliable go-tos for burritos, fajitas and free-flowing margaritas. Change was inevitable—craft taquerias started proliferating more than a decade ago, followed lately by regional Mexican food specialists.

Throughout, an even bigger sea change has gone largely unnoticed: Roughly two dozen South and Central American eateries have set up around O‘ahu, the vast majority without fixed storefronts. From food trucks, trailers and farmers markets, they’re serving up Peruvian ceviches, Colombian cookies and all kinds of empanadas.

The reason? Latinos are the fastest-growing ethnic group in Hawai‘i—comprising 11% of the population in 2022, according to the U.S. Census Bureau—so it’s natural their food cultures would follow. “Before, everyone was from Mexico,” says Sandy Tsukiyama, a Spanish-language interpreter who hosts The Brazilian Experience on KHPR. “Now they’re from Honduras, El Salvador, Venezuela and Colombia, and some are from Nicaragua.”

It’s not just a growing population. Peruvian cuisine has been trending globally—three of the 2024 World’s 50 Best Restaurants are in Lima ( just one is in New York City)—arguably one reason this is the most popular of Honolulu’s new Latin offerings.

Here’s a look at players in the nuevo mundo Latino.

OLIVIER KONING

AARON K. YOSHINO

. . . H A S LO N G B E LO N G E D to its Mexican

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Peruvian Corner, as if fairies touched this cocoon of a space in the backyard of The Smoking Boar and the Coconut in Waialua. A smiley face sun beams from a mural and fresh flowers adorn white picnic tables under matching red umbrellas—the same colors that decorate Miguel and Fanny Torres’ food trailer. Lomo saltado, aji de gallina chicken stew, salchipapa sausage-topped fries, Cheesecake Lilicoy: The hands that make and serve these dishes are the ones that painted the tables and set out the flowers. If you eat in, real plates appear—my yuca fries arrive on a sheen of black glass.

“My husband, I love my husband’s food,” co-owner Fanny Torres says.

The ceviche clasico, a simplicity

of hamachi under red onion shavings, is perfect in its fresh tang and heat. More mysterious is the other ceviche: mixed fish set off by tobiko and jewel-like cuts of yam. Before he found a job in the U.S. secure enough to bring Fanny and their two children, Miguel Torres cooked in trendy Peruvian Nikkei restaurants around South America. He’s working his way back up.

I ask to snap a photo. Next to her husband, Fanny beams and lifts her chin with pride. She shows me a phrase she’s typed into a translator app on her phone: “Nosotros pensamos más adelante tener un restaurante o espacio major,” it reads. “We plan to have a restaurant or a better space in the future.” Secretly, I hope they’ll stay awhile in this happy corner.

67-456 Goodale Ave., Waialua, (808) 367-7669, @peruviancornerhawaii

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Miguel and Fanny Torres, center, with their children

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Omarlys Fernandez at Guaiqueri Empanadas

GUAIQUERI centuries ago, empanadas crossed oceans—to Italy and North Africa, the Philippines and Indonesia.

In Central and South America, where they permeate virtually every country, countless variations evolved. The big half-moons at Guaiqueri, a roving pop-up on O‘ahu, are rich and subtly flavored—exactly as Omarlys Fernandez’s grandmother made them on Isla Margarita, 25 miles off the coast of Venezuela.

Venezuelan empanadas are corn flour empanadas, mixed sometimes with a bit of wheat flour to tamp down oil absorption in the fryer. Beyond that, Fernandez adds dashes of sugar and salt to the corn flour she buys from Venezuela. Her fillings vary from traditional to ham and cream cheese; chorizo yields soft notes of cinnamon and paprika, the minced beef a robust garlic. When the menu veers from empanadas, it’s because Jurian Rojas, her husband, has a new idea—like poke on arepa chips—which he debuts at the weekly Sunday Aloha Home Market in Waikīkī.

Fourteen years ago the couple traded Isla Margarita for O‘ahu, drawn to its beauty, and compared to Venezuela, its comforts and safety. For 10 years Fernandez taught Montessori school, then she put on an apron and dove full-time into making empanadas.

AARON K. YOSHINO

L A U N C H E D F R O M S PA I N

The hand pies let her express a duality—her roots are Guaiqueri, the Indigenous people she named her business after, and Venezuelan. They come together in Guaiqueri’s pabellón criollos, Venezuela’s national dish of stewed beef, black beans and plantains wrapped in an empanada. The crispy-chewy crust hints at a fleeting sweetness—her grandmother’s pinch of sugar—then it’s gone like a ripple.

(808) 292-7666, guaiqueriempanadas.com, @guaiqueri_empanadas

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LA CASITA T U C K E D B E T W E E N A R BY ’ S and Elena’s Home of Finest Filipino

Foods, La Casita is O‘ahu’s best gateway to Central America. The menu is an abbreviated tour of a region whose seven countries cram an isthmus of 1,140 miles, about the distance from Seattle to Los Angeles. Pupusas headline the menu, El Salvador’s griddle-cooked cornmeal cakes filled with permutations of pork, beans and cheese.

Also from El Salvador are yuca con chicharron, chunks of deep-fried pork shoulder piled on thick-cut cassava fries with a side of sauerkrautlike curtido, while the baleadas—whisper-thin flour tortillas folded around beans, cheese and sour cream—are Honduran. The tacos, taquitos and quesadillas are Mexican.

“What about the pescado frito whole fried fish?” I ask. “Where’s that from?”

“Many countries,” chef Gladys Najera says with a shrug. Najera is from Honduras; her grandfather was Salvadoran. She cooked in Latin kitchens across the United States before arriving in Waipahu, where she and daughter Yosselyn de Abreu launched their pupuseria in 2019. “This food is from around Central America. If you’re from Guatemala, you eat similar. If you’re from Honduras, you eat similar,” she says. “We have the same language, same culture. We use the same seasonings. We’re very close in the way we live.”

The same-same-but-different effect shows in La Casita’s tamales.

“In most countries they’re similar but some places make it with pork, vegetables,” Najera says. “Some people put olives, green peppers, even peas, because it’s to enjoy at home.” She boils her tamales Salvadoreños twice—first just the masa, then, wrapped in banana leaves and foil, masa with fillings inside. The steaming cornmeal comes out improbably fluffy and the potatoes, tucked inside with shredded chicken and rice tinged with salsa, take up the flavors and melt like a hug on the palate.

Pupusa at La Casita, left; Portuguese pizza at San Paolo Pizza & Wine

COURTNEY MAU FILE PHOTO

SAN PAOLO PIZZA & WINE

94-866 Moloalo St., D-11A, Waipahu, (808) 676-6987, lacasitahawaii.com, @lacasitahawaii

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“I’M ALL IN,” Andre Alves de Moraes says.

“If I’m not gonna do it the right way, it’s not worth doing at all.” He’s at San Paolo Pizza & Wine, the 170-seat restaurant he and two partners opened last year where Ala Moana Boulevard curves toward Waikīkī.

San Paolo sells Brazilian-style pizzas, a thriving remnant of Italian immigration to South America in the early 20th century. Convincing diners about pizza’s place in Brazilian cuisine is easy, because people understand the melding of tradition

COURTESY: SAN PAOLO PIZZA & WINE

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with local ingredients. Convincing them that they should pay $50 for his pizza is different.

San Paolo pizzas are craft pies unlike any we know. Alves de Moraes, who launched O‘ahu’s three Tropical Tribe açaí cafés, is from (did you guess?) São Paolo. To a large degree, so are the pizzas: The forno oven, one of two chefs, and ingredients like soft catupiry cheese and smoky Calabresa sausages are from Brazil. Much of the rest is from Italy, including the other chef (who Alves de Moraes says placed third in a global Neapolitan pizza competition), pizza flour, pepperoni

and specialty cheeses. The dough, left to rest for two to three days, produces a light, chewy crust whose edges balloon with crispy air pockets. It’s excellent—all in, with live Brazilian music on weekends, double-stitched faux leather place mats, and water served in stemware driving home the point that pizza can be upscale.

There are 27 pizzas now, large, loaded and big enough for two: traditional Italian pies, others with filet mignon or truffle

cream, and a Portuguese pizza with ham and eggs and olives. For $40 you can try mini slices of all 27. “It’s always hard when you’re the first one to do something. I want to break the barrier of what people think of pizza,” Alves de Moraes says. “Ours take days to make—we import high-quality ingredients, use long fermentation and prep handcrafted meats and sauces. Pizza can be just as elevated, just as complex in flavors and prep, as any other kind of food.”

1765 Ala Moana Blvd., (808) 979-1785, sanpaolopizzeria.com, @sanpaolo_pizzaandwine

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Megahn Chun and Alex Villarino at Mercado de la Raza

HONOLULU MAGAZINE

‘ONO

MERCADO DE LA RAZA

BEYOND MEXICAN FOOD

Things you’ll find at Mercado de la Raza:

Where to find dishes from Central and South America on O‘ahu.

$1 bottles of Tajín Paçoquitas Brazilian peanut candy Colombiana La Nuestra sodas Piñatas Prayer candles Vitacilina ointment MERCADO DE LA RAZA IS WHERE YOU GO WHEN A RECIPE calls for fresh nopales, gandules or Colombi-

an sour cream. If you are Latino, it’s a nexus. Martha Sanchez Romero opened the Makiki store in 1995 and estimated that 90% of her customers were local. Two years ago, Megahn Chun and her husband, Alex Villarino, bought it; now two-thirds of customers are Latino.

“We have a lot of Latinos who come in, maybe they just moved here, maybe they’re just searching for their own people. So a lot of what we do is referral. Sometimes it’s ‘Do you know somebody that has a truck’ or ‘Do you know a lawyer?’” Chun says. “Part of our mission is to empower local Latino entrepreneurs to have the tools that they need.”

Chun, from Kaimukī, had worked in fashion and marketing. Villarino, from Mexico, is a principal in a management consultancy with Fortune 500 clients.

Chun brushed up on Spanish after meeting Villarino in New York; since then, with the store and a toddler son to teach about Latino culture, she’s made herself fluent. Neither had run a store, but the couple jumped into the center of a fractured and growing Latin scene.

Mercado’s Instagram shouts out other Latino businesses; in-store events connect vendors with customers.

Here’s what else you’ll find, all of it made on O‘ahu: Argentinian empanadas by Tango Empanadas Aloha Alfajores’ Colombian dulce de leche cookies Raíz heirloom corn tortillas Conchas sweet breads from Sabor a la Mexicana “It goes beyond the food and ingredients; it’s about the community. The value of a small business like us is you don’t need to prove that you’re gonna order $500,000 of a product. You can say, ‘Hey, I’m really trying to do this thing, can you help me?’ And we’ll be like, ‘Yeah, we’ll bring in a case of this and keep it for you,’” Villarino says. “That’s why this place is such an anchor of the community. It’s much more than just a store.”

Aji Limo Peruvian-Japanese food truck, Hale‘iwa, @ajilimo_truck

Miguel’s Cocina Peruvian truck, Fisherman’s Wharf, @miguels.cocina

Aloha Alfajores Colombian cookies, online and pop-ups, @alohalfajores

Mimi’s Peruvian Cuisine Peruvian restaurant, Ke‘eaumoku, @mimisperuviancuisine

Castro’s Cuban restaurant, Waikīkī, @castroswaikiki

Nosh Brazilian pão de queijo farmers market stand, @nosh_hawaii

Ceviche House Peruvian truck, Waikīkī, @ceviche_house_hawaii Delicias Colombian trailer, ‘Aiea, @delicias_honolulu Guaiqueri Empanadas Venezuelan pop-up booth, Waikīkī, @guaiqueri_empanadas

Papi’s Empanadas Argentine farmers market stand, @papisempanadas Peruvian Corner Peruvian trailer, Waialua, @peruviancornerhawaii Pinchos Catrachos Honduran truck, Schofield, @pinchos_catrachos_

Guaya Cuban sandwich pop-up booth, @guaya.emp

Pupusas en Hawai‘i Salvadoran truck, Wahiawā, @pupusasenhawaii

Khao & Papas Peruvian-Lao truck, @khaoandpapas

Rico Rico Chicken Peruvian trailer, Mō‘ili‘ili, @ricoricochicken

La Casita Salvadoran/Latin American restaurant, Waipahu, @lacasitahawaii

San Paolo Pizza & Wine Brazilian-Italian restaurant, Waikīkī, @sanpaolo_pizzaandwine

Mami’s Empanadas Colombian truck, Waikīkī, @mamisempanadashi

Tango Empanadas Argentine trailer, Kapa‘a Quarry Place, @tangoempanadashi

Mar del Plata Argentine truck, Waikīkī, @mardelplatabbq

Texas de Brazil Brazilian restaurant, Ala Moana Center, @texasdebrazil

1315 S. Beretania St., (808) 593-2226, @mercadodelaraza

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AFTERTHOUGHTS

BY KATRINA VALCOURT

Bitten by the Pickleball Bug ’M NOT BIG ON SPORTS. I watch the Olympics every

two years and try to stay active, but I’d rather spend time on creative endeavors than organized team sports. That changed in 2024, when I watched the Vancouver Canucks in action at Rogers Arena, then found myself screaming for Shohei Ohtani at Dodger Stadium. There’s nothing like singing along with Neil Diamond impersonator Nearly Neil between hockey periods, or high-fiving strangers between fistfuls of overpriced garlic fries served in a plastic LA baseball cap, to understand the appeal of sports.

What really tipped the scales, though, was the day I tried pickleball.

The city Department of Parks and Recreation offers tons of free activities every fall. “Free” was all I needed to hear.

Friends have been talking up the sport for years (pre-pandemic, even), and with our parent company producing a large-scale tournament this month, I figured I’d give it a shot, especially since I was looking for a new hobby. There was nothing to lose.

I learn best through gentle encouragement, but when I found a very intense retiree yelling at me, “GO IN, GO IN!” I quickly picked up the rules, out of fear of disappointing Coach Danny more than anything.

Outside of class, which took place Tuesday evenings in a gymnasium in my neighborhood, I read everything I could on usapickleball.org and watched YouTube videos of games. I volleyed in the backyard with my brother-in-law, who took the class with me, and showed up early to practice against the wall.

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I wrote down the five golden rules: serve deep, stay behind the line, return high and deep, go up to the nonvolley line, don’t hit to your opponent. I soon realized that Coach wasn’t angry, he was yelling at everyone, probably because the gym is so loud with all the thwacking. You can’t hear the score unless you yell. Before long, I learned to shout it proudly (but only after confirming what it was with my teammate each time the serve transferred to me).

Coach says: “Don’t act like you’re going to live 100 more years. Each hit should be as if it were your last one.” It’s hard to tell when he’s joking when every word out of his mouth sounds like a reprimand.

I already knew as soon as I made a mistake that he would be on his way over to correct my form. But shame turned to motivation, and by week six or seven, I felt the exhilaration of not only winning a point, but the match.

I have my own paddle now and try to head to a nearby court a couple of times a week. I’ve watched tournaments on TV. I may not be the best player or a total sports convert, but I understand why so many people love the game. It’s a social sport, and I’ve been invited to play with total strangers who gather weekly. I love that about it.

The final newbie class ended unceremoniously. We were all proud of what we’d accomplished and we exchanged phone numbers, promising to get together and play. Then we gathered around Coach, waiting for an encouraging send-off. After a brief pause, in his usual deadpan, he said, “Stop hitting to your opponent.”

HAILEY AKAU

I

It happened to me too, and I’ve never liked sports.

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