Category: Living Life

Celebrating King Kamehameha Day

Our islands form the only US state to celebrate their monarchical history. To honor his grandfather, King Kamehameha V inaugurated King Kamehameha I Day on June 11, 1872. The legacy of the sovereign nicknamed “Kamehameha the Great” is that of a powerful warrior and beloved ruler who successfully united the Hawaiian
archipelago in 1810, ending a decades-long pattern of inter-island conflict. This year’s festivities on June 11 will mark the 109th King Kamehameha Day. This year’s theme, E kū, e ho‘ololi, means stand upright and change unpleasant conditions.

Festivities usually include a procession by the Hawaiian Royal Societies, an organization commissioned by Kamehameha V, whose purpose is protecting, preserving and perpetuating the Hawaiian culture. Floral parades feature floats and pā‘ū riders on horseback. Pā‘ū riders wear long, flowing skirts (pā‘ū ) representing the different islands with specific colors and flowers. Ho‘olaule‘a, a festival that celebrates Hawai‘i’s culture, include local food, Hawaiian music and more.

Traditionally, each year, a statue of Kamehameha I is adorned during the lei-draping ceremony that attracts large crowds of locals and tourist alike. Each island’s Hawai‘i Civic Society prepares nearly 100 20- to 30-foot plumeria lei for the ceremony.

Thomas Gould had been commissioned to sculpt the first statue of Kamehameha I. In 1883, upon completion of the 8.5-foot statue, it was sent via ship from Europe to the judiciary building in Honolulu. Although thought to be lost after the boat was shipwrecked near the Falkland Islands, it was recovered later that year. With a replacement statue already unveiled in Honolulu, this statue was relocated to the district of Kohala on the Big Island, where Kamehameha I was born.

The 18-foot King Kamehameha replacement statue stands in front of Ali‘iōlani Hale in Waikīkī, the main stage for the festivities on O‘ahu. As with all statues of His Majesty, the spear clutched in Kamehameha’s right hand symbolizes his ability to protect his people. His left hand is outstretched as a sign of welcome and peace.

In 1997, a 14-foot statue of Kamehameha I was erected in Hilo. Commissioned by the Princeville Corporation on Kaua‘i and built by Italian sculptor R. Sandrin in 1963, it was originally intended to be erected on island; however, residents pushed back on these plans as Kaua‘i and neighboring Ni‘ihau were the only islands not conquered by force by Kamehameha I during his campaign to unify the islands.

The County of Maui traditionally hosted Nā Kamehameha Commemorative Pā‘ū Parade on Front Street and a ho‘olaule‘a at Banyan Tree Park in Lahaina. The one-time capital of the Kingdom of Hawai‘i is still recovering from the devastating 2023 Lahaina wildfires and celebrations have since been relocated to Kahului in Central Maui. The June 20 parade will start at Baldwin High School and end at Queen Ka‘ahumanu Center and will be followed by a ho‘olaule‘a.

Visit the Hawai‘i State Foundation on Culture and the Arts’ website at sfca.hawaii.gov/resources/king-kamehameha-celebration-commission for more information and updates on how you can join these celebrations.

Our islands form the only US state to celebrate their monarchical history. To honor his grandfather, King Kamehameha V inaugurated King Kamehameha I Day on June 11, 1872. The legacy of the sovereign nicknamed “Kamehameha the Great” is that of a powerful warrior and beloved ruler who successfully united the Hawaiianarchipelago in 1810, ending a…
What Your Loved Ones Should Know

When my time comes, everything is here,” he said. Long before his death, my father-in-law sat us down and opened his safe, carefully walking us through the important documents inside. Legal papers were signed. The funeral was prepaid. He had done what responsible people do. He had prepared us.

He had done everything right so we would avoid probate. When he passed, I felt calm, believing the hardest part would be missing him.

Annette Kam’s in-laws enjoy an engaged and loving time with their second great-grandchild, focusing on family, affection and fun.

I never realized how unprepared I was until I was living it — grieving, exhausted and navigating details I never imagined would fall to me, blindsided by mundane things no one thinks of. The first sign: a missing checkbook needed to pay bills, followed by a key ring heavy with unlabeled keys. We became landlords overnight without knowing tenants’ names or rent amounts. Then there were crucial phone numbers we didn’t have, passwords we didn’t know and even a request for their marriage certificate.

Six months later, finding care for my mother-in-law brought another surge of decisions layered over grief. Then came their home and 60 years of memories, paperwork and possessions to sort.

Grief did not arrive gently. It competed with deadlines, phone calls and responsibilities. I would solve one problem only to face another. For two years, I lived more than a hundred “I wish I had known” moments that weighed me down from sunup to sundown. Cancel a phone too soon and verification codes disappear. A landline in one name only can stall everything.

My in-laws were not careless. How could they prepare us for what they didn’t know? I gained knowledge only because I was forced to. When my mother-in-law passed two years later, I finally understood what needed to be done, which made it easier to handle.

How many families believe they are prepared — until they are standing where I stood?

Have the important, much-needed conversations now. Label the keys. Share the passwords. Clarify the small things down to the detail.

This important preparation is much more than paperwork. It is how we care for the people we love after we are gone.

For more information about WAIT—Don’t Die Yet!, email buckwun@aol.com, call 808-454-7871 or visit annettekam.com.

When my time comes, everything is here,” he said. Long before his death, my father-in-law sat us down and opened his safe, carefully walking us through the important documents inside. Legal papers were signed. The funeral was prepaid. He had done what responsible people do. He had prepared us. He had done everything right so…
Hawai‘i’s Unique Memorial Day Celebrations

Since the beginning of World War II, over 400,000 service members have lost their lives in combat. To honor those who paid the ultimate price to save and protect our nation and values, Memorial Day in Hawai‘i is marked by deeply moving, unique traditions blending cultural, spiritual, patriotic elements and military reverence. Hawai‘i’s Memorial Day is distinctive compared to the rest of the country, with lantern floating ceremonies that draw thousands to honor the departed. And in addition to traditional Memorial Day parades, Hawai‘i honors fallen service members by placing thousands of handmade flower lei on their graves.

O‘AHU:
 The Shinnyo Floating Lantern Festival at Ala Moana Beach (lanternfloatinghawaii.com) reflects our state’s multicultural demographic by blending Buddhist practice and Native Hawaiian tradition. Participants can pay tribute to a loved one who has passed or spread a message of peace and hope by releasing their own lantern at sunset. The ceremony begins at 6:30pm on Memorial Day.

 The National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific at Punchbowl, also known as “Pūowaina,” was established at the end of World War II to honor veterans who have fought in the Pacific Wars. Mayor Rick Blangiardi will host a special ceremony at 8:30am on Memorial Day (honolulu.gov/dpr/mayors-memorial-day). The ceremony will include the 70-year tradition of adorning each gravestone with a freshly sewn lei. The City and County of Honolulu is asking for donations of tī leaves, plumeria/crown flowers and volunteers to make the 38,000 lei needed for the ceremony.

 The Hawai‘i State Veterans Cemetery in Kāne‘ohe (lake.com/events/hawaii-governors-memorial-day-ceremony) also holds an annual Memorial Day ceremony to honor over 15,000 fallen service members. The event typically includes the decoration of graves with lei, which is supported by community donations and volunteers to ensure every grave is honored.

 The American Gold-Star Families Memorial Day Parade recognizes the sacrifices of families whose loved ones have died. The parade will begin at Fort DeRussy in Waikīkī (memorialdayparade.com/the-parade).

 The Pearl Harbor National Memorial (pearlharbor.org) will also honor our nation’s veterans. Tours are offered on the USS Utah (BB1) and USS Oklahoma (BB37) and a live dive will take place at the USS Arizona followed by a commemorative ceremony.

KAUA‘I:
 The Kaua‘i Veterans Cemetery in Hanapēpē (lake.com/events/memorial-day-lei-draping-in-kauai) will also hold similar Lei of Aloha ceremonies.

MAUI COUNTY:
 A traditional, community-led lei placement event is expected to take place at the Maui Veterans Cemetery in Makawao, typically starting in the morning around 9am on the Saturday prior, May 23, 2026. Kaunoa Senior Center volunteers make lei to be placed on graves. Check mauicounty.gov/254/Kaunoa-Senior-Services in May.

HAWAI‘I:
 The 22nd Annual Celebration of Life lantern floating event (tinyurl.com/BigIsland-May24LanternFloating) will be held at Reed’s Bay in Hilo, Hawai‘i. The free community event also features Bon dancing to honor loved ones with remembrance and reflection. These events foster a deep sense of community, reflection and gratitude throughout the islands.

Since the beginning of World War II, over 400,000 service members have lost their lives in combat. To honor those who paid the ultimate price to save and protect our nation and values, Memorial Day in Hawai‘i is marked by deeply moving, unique traditions blending cultural, spiritual, patriotic elements and military reverence. Hawai‘i’s Memorial Day…
The Art of Shōganai: Shifting Gears

David Murata, a resident of Kula, Maui, has been a persistent presence on local tennis courts for over three-quarters of a century — well into his 90s. Recently, David has decided to hang up his racket at age 95, an incredible accomplishment and milestone.

To say that the sport increases longevity is an understatement. Tennis is known to extend life expectancy by nearly 10 years… what some call the “bonus years.”

“David has repeatedly said that tennis is what keeps him alive,” say fellow players Tom Liu and Pearl Rockett. But after 77 years of enjoying the sport, David stopped playing when he felt that his balance was declining. “It was a natural transition due to my age and capabilities,” David candidly says.

David Murata and long-time tennis partner Monty Tester are two of Maui’s class acts. David’s advice for those just starting tennis is “to practice as much as you can and play with different and better people — if they are willing to play with you.”

David started playing tennis around 1948 at Konawaena High School, when a family friend’s father introduced him to the game. Throughout his tennis career, David remained competitive and injury-free, playing on many USTA league teams on Maui. “But my strength decreased as I got older and I had to be careful not to fall on the court,” he says. “I also relied on my partners more since I could not move as well.” So he served as team captain when he was unable to compete at the higher levels.

David not only brought his skills and smiles to the court; the “garden guru” regularly blessed his fellow players with a bounty of beautiful fruits and vegetables that he painstakingly tended on his Kula farm. He has been described as a generous, kind and compassionate gentlemen — both on and off the court.

What kept him coming back decade after decade was that he “liked the game and the people that I played with.” He says he will miss being active and spending time with his tennis friends — Monty Tester, Tom Liu, Pearl Rockett, Don Booth — and many others he has played with over the years.

“He was the captain of several of the teams I played on,” says Monty. “He was a very good, fair captain, keeping us organized on our trips to Kona and O‘ahu for USTA sectionals.”

“David’s small frame masked his towering competitiveness, his prowess, his smartness, his total concentration, and his unsolicited cheering after he made a point,” says Pearl.

She says he lives life and played tennis utilizing the Asian culture belief of shōganai: “it is what it is — the situation cannot be altered, worrying about it is pointless and moving forward is the best option.” “He moved on when life showed its nasty ways, he held his head up high and believed in the power of God,” says Pearl. “He never dwelled on the little things.”

There’s a new kid in town: David Murata has joined a gateball group that plays on Tuesday and Friday mornings in Kula: (L–R, front row) his daughter, Jody Singsank; Doris Ventura; Marsha Williams; (back row) Norma Haicsi (in back of David); Faith and Jim DeBuhr. PC: Arthur Ventura

“Even in his 90s, David was always fun to play with,” says Don. “He remembered the score better than us 60- and 70-year-olds. He was competitive and loved to report the set scores to his family when his team won. But win or lose, David was always a model of good sportsmanship. He is a wonderful example of a generous and kind man whom we could all learn from.”

Besides the good times with his friends, his most cherished memories include “winning games that I didn’t think we could win.” He says he doesn’t remember much about his opponents… but one can bet they remember him. This polite player with a good-natured giggle wielded a wicked, left-handed slice serve so extreme that John McEnroe would have been jealous. And like McEnroe, this unassuming senior was indeed a fierce competitor.

“I remember seeing his joy as he whacked that tennis ball and got a winner off of me,” says Pearl. “His serious face broke out into a huge grin — more like a smirk — and then he would shamelessly shake his fist at me showing me that he ‘got me!’ It was a wonderful time of togetherness and sharing the tennis courts with David. He is my idol. I will miss playing with him.”

Only time could stop this dynamo. The keys to David’s longevity in sports is to stay healthy and active, but to also be realistic about his limitations as he got older and avoid wasting energy on uncontrollable events. “I am okay not playing anymore due to my limitations,” says David. “Although aging takes away some things you just can’t do anymore, keep active doing the things that you can do.”

He has now shifted his attention to another thinking person’s sport — gateball — several times a week (generations808.com/gateball-revived). Best of luck to his opponents… They will need it!

David Murata, a resident of Kula, Maui, has been a persistent presence on local tennis courts for over three-quarters of a century — well into his 90s. Recently, David has decided to hang up his racket at age 95, an incredible accomplishment and milestone. To say that the sport increases longevity is an understatement. Tennis…
Ceviche à la d’Victor

Growing up, ceviche was always served at gatherings or parties during hot summer days. It’s also perfect for a potluck contribution. Everyone loves it! The first time I made this recipe on my own, I was in my second year of college, missing home and my mom’s ceviche. It was spring break, perfect weather, and I wanted something energizing before going to the beach. I bought the ingredients, called my mom for assistance and made it. It came out perfect! My roommates and I devoured it with chips. What I really like about ceviche? It’s really easy to make. It’s refreshing and it can be for pūpū or the main dish. This recipe is the basic ingredients that are distinctively “ceviche.” Every Hispanic culture has its own signature version. Make it your own!

Ingredients
1 3-lb. bag fresh shrimp/seafood
2 cucumbers (or more)
1 red onion or
2 large shallots (for a sweeter taste)
1 bunch cilantro (chopped)
8 limes (approx.)
4 tomatoes (regular or Roma)
salt (to taste)
Prep time: 1 hr. (approx.)
Serves: 6–8 small bowls

Directions
Shrimp/seafood preparation: Tear the heads off and shell the shrimp. Devein the shrimp by slicing the back open and scrapping out the vein-like digestive track. Cut the shrimp/seafood into bite-sized pieces and place in a mixing bowl. Marinate: Squeeze all of the limes and pour the juice into the bowl of shrimp/seafood pieces — enough to just cover them. Let the mixture sit in the refrigerator for 30 to 45 minutes until the shrimp/seafood is opaque and firm. Vegetable preparation: While the shrimp/seafood/lime mixture is marinating, chop the vegetables. Bringing it all together: When the shrimp/seafood is ready, mix with the chopped vegetables. Add salt to taste. Add more ingredients to taste. And to personalize it further, add avocado, sweet peppers and mango (as shown above) to your taste.

Serve with corn tortas (corn cakes) or chips. ¡Provecho! (Enjoy your meal!)

Do you have a favorite recipe and story to share? For consideration, include a photo and mail them to Generations Recipe, PO Box 4213, Honolulu, HI 96812, or email them to Cynthia@generations808.com.

Growing up, ceviche was always served at gatherings or parties during hot summer days. It’s also perfect for a potluck contribution. Everyone loves it! The first time I made this recipe on my own, I was in my second year of college, missing home and my mom’s ceviche. It was spring break, perfect weather, and…
Celebrating the Hispanic Culture

Since more than 1,500 years ago, Kānaka Maoli (Native Hawaiians) have welcomed immigrants from every corner of the globe, cultivating and perpetuating the tapestry of diverse cultures that make up our islands. In this ninth article of our ongoing series, we focus on Hispanic heritage, how a few of the different cultures arrived in the Hawaiian islands, their traditions and celebrations such as the Hawaii Hispanic Heritage Festival and Cinco de Mayo.

Hispanic Arrival in Hawai‘i

The first person of Hispanic heritage to arrive in Hawai‘i was Spanish adventurer Francisco de Paula Marín near the end of the 18th century. With a vast array of skills at his disposal (interpreting, negotiating and advising the king), he quickly adapted to life in Hawai‘i. He is also credited with introducing and planting many of the crops Hawai‘i is now known for: pineapple, coffee, mango and more. A few years later, cows were given to King Kamehameha III as a gift, but the king had to request backup from Mexican vaqueros (cowboys), who worked with local paniolo and taught them to handle the cattle. Thus began a steadily increasing flow of Hispanic people to the Hawaiian Islands. At the peak of the sugarcane industry, in the wake of two hurricanes in Puerto Rico in 1899, the first group of 54 Puerto Rican men came to work in the sugarcane fields. Only 14 years later, Hispanic immigrants numbered over 9,000. Today, people of Hispanic heritage make up about 10% of Hawai‘i’s population.

Culture and Holiday Traditions

Hispanic cultures include Mexican, Puerto Rican, Cuban, Central/South American, Dominican and other Latin American/Spanish countries, but the first two are most prevalent in the islands. As a result of Spanish colonization, both cultures speak Spanish and predominantly practice Catholicism, so Christmas is a significant holiday. Noche de San Juan (St. John’s Night) is a major Puerto Rican celebration held annually on June 23 to honor Saint John the Baptist, the island’s patron saint. There are two well-known and widely practiced cultural celebrations for those of Mexican descent. Cinco de Mayo (May 5), commemorating the 1862 Battle of Puebla, is celebrated with vibrant parades, mariachi music, baile folklórico (folkloric dance) and authentic Mexican cuisine. Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead on Nov. 1 and 2), honors deceased loved ones. And, of course, every celebration includes food: pasteles/pastele stew, tacos, horchata, gandule rice and more.

The biggest cultural festival is the Hispanic Heritage Festival hosted by Hispanic Events Hawaii, held on Oct. 10 on O‘ahu. The Puerto Rican Heritage Society has also hosted the Puerto Rican Festival for the past two years in July on O‘ahu, featuring live music, dancing, pasteles, arroz con gandules and more.

For more information, see the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Hawaii’s website (hcchawaii. org) and the Puerto Rican Heritage Society’s Facebook page (facebook.com/Boricuas.Hawaii/) as well as Generations Magazine’s Facebook page
(facebook.com/genmag808) and website calendar (generations808.com/calendar) for community events and opportunities.

The next article in this series will feature the influences of Tahitian culture in Hawai‘i.

Since more than 1,500 years ago, Kānaka Maoli (Native Hawaiians) have welcomed immigrants from every corner of the globe, cultivating and perpetuating the tapestry of diverse cultures that make up our islands. In this ninth article of our ongoing series, we focus on Hispanic heritage, how a few of the different cultures arrived in the…
What To Do With Unwanted Heirlooms

If your family members and friends have declined your offer to pass your treasured heirlooms to them, you are not alone. Jon Vendiola, the owner of a decluttering and moving service for kūpuna called “Lets Move, LLC,” has found this to be common among his customers. He cites differences in taste between generations and the lack of available space for storage in the smaller homes that are being purchased in a difficult housing market. Members of Gen X and Gen Z gravitate toward aspects of minimalism, and are more likely to value the memories, stories and the time spent together over the clutter.

But rather than lug these items to the landfill or drop them in a donation box, he recommends that you first explore other options. Take items that may have monetary value, such as tea sets, furniture, antiques, vintage items and designer clothing to a consignment store to be appraised. But do some research online or give the consignment store a call first. Consignment stores are selective. The merchandise they accept must be in “pristine condition,” says Jon. If they choose to accept an item, you retain ownership until it is sold. When the item is sold, the store will keep its commission and you take home the rest.

If all else fails, take your items to your local thrift shop, Goodwill, Salvation Army, homeless shelter or a domestic violence shelter. Or find a nonprofit thrift store that sells donated items to fund a charitable mission. Precious treasures that your family may reject could be highly prized by a perfect stranger—a win-win for everyone.

If your family members and friends have declined your offer to pass your treasured heirlooms to them, you are not alone. Jon Vendiola, the owner of a decluttering and moving service for kūpuna called “Lets Move, LLC,” has found this to be common among his customers. He cites differences in taste between generations and the…
The Cure for Retirement Disease

Many of us have heard the paradox “all alone in a crowded room.” For many of our island seniors, it is a reality. Social isolation and loneliness are major enemies of the senior population. They are the common challenges of life after work.

Imagine the situation: You have worked for over 50 years, many as supervisors in charge of others. And after all that time, you look forward to retiring. You see yourself as being free to do as you wish, when you wish and with whom you wish. But on that first day of retirement, you no longer have a place where you feel you belong. There are no “good morning” greetings—no afternoon lunch gossip.

This is a reality for many retirees. Of course, many are prepared. They had their travel group set up. They were all set to garden, babysit or meet their friends for kanikapila at a local McDonald’s. But not all are prepared. Many seniors retire without having long-term plans in place. After the first month, they stop looking forward. They wake up, watch TV, eat alone and fall asleep. This becomes their new pattern. So, what do you do to prevent this? Start again.

Having worked for Parks and Recreation Senior Section for over 30 years, I met the people who gave in to “the disease of being retired.” Others I met formed new beginnings. They joined clubs, set up a schedule of activities and rediscovered life. They found new reasons to wake up every day. Whether it was a senior club or just a group they met at the mall, life started to form anew.

Remember back when you started your career? Do it again and this time you are your own boss. Rekindle a former passion, challenge yourself with a new project, order yourself to join a club or start a club of your own. Create activities you have always wanted to do—travel, garden or work out at your local recreation center.

Look at opportunities to help others. I just started retirement and began a new career doing just that! My hobbies now dictate my deadlines. I feel renewed; I am just waiting for people to start telling me I look younger!

CITY & COUNTY OF HONOLULU DEPT. OF PARKS & RECREATION, RECREATION SUPPORT SERVICES
1000 Uluohia St., Kapolei HI, 96707
808-768-3045 | ssantiago@honolulu.gov
honolulu.gov/dpr

Many of us have heard the paradox “all alone in a crowded room.” For many of our island seniors, it is a reality. Social isolation and loneliness are major enemies of the senior population. They are the common challenges of life after work. Imagine the situation: You have worked for over 50 years, many as…
Every Drop, a Lifeline for Hawai’i

The Blood Bank of Hawai‘i (BBH) is the state’s only center for blood collection and distribution, supplying all 18 civilian hospitals. Because shipments from the continental US take time, local donations are essential to meet daily patient needs. BBH often relies on 150 to 200 donors each day to support surgeries, cancer treatments and childbirth. When emergencies spike, demand can exceed 300 units. On days with low supply, reserves can fall below a single day’s worth, forcing hospitals to make difficult choices about who receives life-saving treatment immediately and who must wait.

Traci Takehara, senior recruiter for donor services at BBH and a multiple-time donor herself, oversees Lifesaver Clubs and coordinates drives throughout the islands. “Every donation has the power to save a life right here in our community,” Takehara says. “It’s life, hope and time for families who need it most.”

Because blood cannot be manufactured, Hawai‘i’s hospitals depend entirely on volunteer donors to maintain a stable supply. Each unit has a limited shelf life, and demand fluctuates with surgeries and emergencies, making regular donations essential. All blood types are needed—including the most common—O-positive and A-positive—while O-negative remains especially valuable due to its universal compatibility.

Many kūpuna rely on a consistent blood supply, especially those managing chronic conditions or preparing for procedures like dialysis, heart treatments or joint replacements. Yet fewer than 2% of Hawai‘i residents donate regularly, leaving hospitals with little buffer when demand is high. One pint can support up to three patients, so supplies can run low quickly.

Different types of donations address specific medical needs. Whole blood, the most common, is used for a wide range of treatments. Platelets help cancer and trauma patients. Plasma supports burn-care and clotting disorders. Rare types like Jk3-negative, more common among Polynesian populations, are in high demand because they are harder to match.

Most adults in Hawai‘i can donate if they are generally healthy, weigh at least 110 pounds and meet screening requirements. Many kūpuna remain eligible, depending on medications and medical history.

BBH operates fixed locations on O‘ahu and regularly holds mobile drives to make donations accessible across the islands. Staff guide donors through every step, from check-in to recovery, and follow consistent safety protocols to protect both donors and patients. By maintaining a reliable supply, the Blood Bank supports care that keeps families together and ensures treatment remains close to home.

Takehara emphasizes, “A steady blood supply ensures hospitals can care for all patients without making impossible choices.”

For more information or to schedule a donation, visit bbh.org.

The Blood Bank of Hawai‘i (BBH) is the state’s only center for blood collection and distribution, supplying all 18 civilian hospitals. Because shipments from the continental US take time, local donations are essential to meet daily patient needs. BBH often relies on 150 to 200 donors each day to support surgeries, cancer treatments and childbirth.…
Easiest Dumpling Soup (Mandu-guk)

This soup has become a new tradition for the Kim family—the dumpling soup my kids ask for every time we want a quick, comforting and easy dinner. And it is simple enough that at age 10, my daughter, Sophia, could make it on her own. Mandu (dumplings) are usually made during holidays like the Korean New Year or Chuseok, an autumn harvest festival. Families make them together and eat them together. There’s something special about a meal that is stress-free and still brings everyone to the table. On chilly days, manduguk is our go-to and a perfect recipe for kids who are learning their way around the kitchen.

Ingredients

1 pack Store-bought beef bone broth
8–10 Store-bought dumplings (any brand)
1 egg
Chopped green onions, to taste
Minced garlic, to taste
A little sesame oil

Directions

1) Pour 1 pack of store-bought beef bone broth into a pot and add the same amount of water. Bring to a boil.
2) While the broth is heating, mince the garlic and finely chop the green onions.
3) Crack the egg into a bowl and beat it lightly.
4) When the broth comes to a boil, add about 8–10 dumplings. Cook until the dumplings float to the surface.
5) Once the dumplings float, add the minced garlic and stir.
6) Slowly pour in the beaten egg in a circular motion. When the egg starts to set, gently stir with a spoon.
7) Add the green onions and a little sesame oil, then stir.
8) Season with salt and pepper if needed.

If you add sliced rice cakes (tteok) along with the dumplings, it becomes tteok-mandu-guk (rice cake and dumpling soup).

Prep & cook time: 45 minutes
Serves: 2

Do you have a favorite recipe and story to share?
For consideration, include a photo and mail them to
Generations Recipe, PO Box 4213, Honolulu, HI 96812, or
email them to Cynthia@generations808.com.

This soup has become a new tradition for the Kim family—the dumpling soup my kids ask for every time we want a quick, comforting and easy dinner. And it is simple enough that at age 10, my daughter, Sophia, could make it on her own. Mandu (dumplings) are usually made during holidays like the Korean…
Celebrating the Korean Culture

Since more than 1,500 years ago, Kānaka Maoli (Native Hawaiians) have welcomed immigrants from every corner of the globe, cultivating and perpetuating a tapestry of diverse cultures. In the eighth article of this ongoing series on the many cultures that comprise Hawai‘i, we will focus on the Koreans, how they arrived in the Hawaiian Islands, the culture and celebrations.

Korean Arrival in Hawai‘i

The story of Korean immigration to Hawai‘i officially began on Jan. 13, 1903, when 56 men, 21 women and 25 children arrived in the islands. Like many other ethnic groups migrating to Hawai‘i, the men were recruited as laborers for sugarcane plantations. Their situation was unique in that Korean laborers were primarily seen as strikebreakers when Japanese laborers refused to work under exploitative conditions.

By 1915, Korean presence in Hawai‘i had grown to over 7,000 strong. In these early years of immigration to Hawai‘i and then to the United States continent, some Korean intellectuals believed that emigrating from Korea would be useful in modernizing their homeland. As a result, the recruitment of Korean laborers and those willing to move to Hawai‘i saw little issue. Today, around 55,000 residents of Hawai‘i claim Korean heritage—about 4% of the population.

Culture and Tradition

The Koreans in Hawai‘i were self-starters. They immediately began organizing themselves through churches, establishing schools/social organizations and becoming business owners, and these practices continue today. As proof of this living history, Ke‘eaumoku Street in Honolulu – also affectionately called “Koreamoku”—features plenty of Korean-owned businesses, restaurants and sites for communal gathering.

Many keiki grow up going to taekwondo practice and learning seoye (calligraphy). Hallyu (South Korean popular culture), Korean pop (K-Pop) and dramas are enjoyed across generations.

The most beloved manifestation of the different cultures in Hawai‘i is, of course, food, and delicious and comforting Korean cuisine—like bulgogi, kalbi and meat jun, and banchan (sides) like kimchi and mandu—is no exception.

Celebrations

Organizations such as the United Korean Association of Hawaii and the Hawaii Korean Cultural Center offer culturally relevant classes and events throughout the year. The two largest cultural celebrations are the Korean Festival in August and the newer Kimchi Day Festival in November—both annual, held on O‘ahu and featuring events such as dance and drum performances, eating contests and celebrations of the arts.

For more information, see the Hawai‘i Korean Chamber of Commerce website (hawaiikorean-chamber.org) as well as Generations Magazine’s Facebook page (facebook.com/genmag808) and website calendar (generations808.com/calendar) for community events and opportunities.

The next article in this series will feature the influences of Mexican culture in Hawai‘i.

Since more than 1,500 years ago, Kānaka Maoli (Native Hawaiians) have welcomed immigrants from every corner of the globe, cultivating and perpetuating a tapestry of diverse cultures. In the eighth article of this ongoing series on the many cultures that comprise Hawai‘i, we will focus on the Koreans, how they arrived in the Hawaiian Islands,…
Kaua‘i Libraries Offer Fun for Everyone!

Exciting, free events are happening at Hanapēpē and Līhu‘e Public Libraries on Kaua‘i! The public library is the place to be for all ages, keiki to kūpuna, say Līhu‘e Branch Manager Kristen Hillman and Branch Librarian Mindy Gipson.

Līhu‘e Public Library strives to offer programs that support the needs of library users of all ages. First Thursday Memory Catchers meetings are held on the first Thursday of each month at 4pm. The monthly meeting of the Kaua‘i Live Poets Society happens on the first Monday at 4:30pm. The Mom’s Support Group convenes every first Wednesday at 5:30pm. And the Early Literacy Center is for our youngest patrons.

The Coloring Cafe offers a low-key atmosphere where adults can create and converse. The Friends of Līhu‘e Library provides self-serve coffee. “Usually thought of as a children’s activity, coloring has recently been recognized for its potential mental and physical health benefits, especially for adults facing stress, anxiety and dementia,” says Kristen.

Hanapēpē Public Library, a community hub in Kaua‘i’s West Side, offers many free, fun activities for keiki, such as the Mokihana Berry Read-Aloud Club and Tunes, Tales and Twirls Keiki Storytime. Its adult events are also impressive, and above all, fun!

Hanapēpē Public Library Branch
Librarian Mindy Gipson poses with new library
locations signage in Olelo Hawai‘i
and English. Hanapēpē Public Library
celebrated its 75th anniversary with a 1950s-style
swing dance last February.

“We had a remarkable turnout for our monthly Game and Puzzle Night on the last Thursday of the month,” says Mindy. “Families and individuals are returning to connect with others in the community to play chess, bridge, work puzzles and create with Legos.”

A growing number of enthusiasts join together from 2 to 4pm for 4-Player Games: bridge on Tuesdays and mahjong on Wednesdays. The library has created the space for young adults and kūpuna alike to enjoy these brain-healthy games that provide a stimulating mental challenge. Game & Puzzle Nights are held the last Thursdays of the month from 5 to 7pm.

“We are very grateful to the Friends of the Hanapēpē Public Library who fund the purchase of card tables and other furnishings, plus literacy developmental toys, storytime props and musical instruments to support our children’s programs,” says Mindy. “They also fund refreshments for many of our special events. The friends meet weekly in our meeting room creating oshibana (pressed flower) cards and other crafts to fund- raise for the library.”

Learn more about Hawai‘i library events at tinyurl.com/HIPublicLibraryEventsCalendar.

HAWAI‘I STATE PUBLIC LIBRARY SYSTEM
Līhu‘e Public Library
4344 Hardy St., Lihue, HI 96766
808-241-3222 | kristen.hillman@librarieshawaii.org
librarieshawaii.org
Events Calendar:
tinyurl.com/HIPublicLibraryEventsCalendar

Exciting, free events are happening at Hanapēpē and Līhu‘e Public Libraries on Kaua‘i! The public library is the place to be for all ages, keiki to kūpuna, say Līhu‘e Branch Manager Kristen Hillman and Branch Librarian Mindy Gipson. Līhu‘e Public Library strives to offer programs that support the needs of library users of all ages.…