Category: Living Life

‘Olelo’s “Senior Sunrise” Mornings

Senator Brickwood Galuteria and Melveen Leed

Since March of this year, ‘Ōlelo Community Media has featured one hour of daily programming each Monday through Friday from 8 am – 9 am especially for, and by, senior citizens in our community.

These “Senior Sunrise” mornings on Channel 53 are centered around “Kupuna Power,” a weekly magazine-format half-hour program created in partnership with Senator Brickwood Galuteria, the Executive Office on Aging and AARP Hawai‘i. The “Kupuna Power” show, produced and hosted by Galuteria, airs each Monday at 8 a.m. and will repeat at that same time on Thursdays.

‘Ōlelo believes senior-focused programming is acutely needed because of Hawai‘i’s aging community: In 2012, those 60 years and over accounted for 21.6 percent of the total population, according to the Executive Office on Aging. By 2020, the Hawai‘i Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism estimates senior population growth will be 26.1 percent.

‘Ōlelo is developing other original senior programming and working with several strong community producers to create more shows for kupuna; these include a variety of short segments of interest including the “I Remember When” flashback, “Everyday Tai Chi” and “Kau Kau Moment,” a light-hearted cooking show featuring Janice Terukina Morimoto, a local actress and comedian now based in Korea who stars in a series of island-style cooking shorts.

The senior-focused programming each weekday morning is available on ‘Ōlelo Channel 53 on both Oceanic Time Warner and Hawaiian Telecom cable on O‘ahu. It can also be viewed via live stream at www.olelo.org. Happy viewing!

Since March of this year, ‘Ōlelo Community Media has featured one hour of daily programming each Monday through Friday from 8 am – 9 am especially for, and by, senior citizens in our community. These “Senior Sunrise” mornings on Channel 53 are centered around “Kupuna Power,” a weekly magazine-format half-hour program created in partnership with…
Financial Security & Health for Voters 50+

Hawaii had the lowest voter turnout among all states in 2012 — less than half (44.5%) of voters casting ballots. Voters age 50-plus went to the polls in greater numbers than any other age group. In 2014 election, 50-plus voters could once again play a deciding role. So, what issues are on the minds of Hawaii’s mature voters?

On the federal side, protecting Social Security is a high priority, especially for residents who feel financially unprepared for retirement. In Hawaii, Social Security makes up 50% or more of income for over half of Hawaii residents age 65 and older, and more than a quarter of older residents rely on Social Security as their only source of income.

When “entitlement reform” and Social Security have become bargaining chips in Washington, D.C., voters agree there should be a separate debate about the future of the program — that focuses on its major role in providing financial security in retirement and strengthening the system for future generations.

Another is Medicare, which provides guaranteed affordable health coverage for more than 217,000 beneficiaries in Hawaii alone. The program faces a number of challenges in the coming years due to rising health care costs and changing demographics. AARP believes stabilizing the system for future generations and keeping promises to seniors with responsible, commonsense solutions will improve care and reduce costs. For example, better use of information technology could promote care coordination, reduce medical errors and ensure patients are getting the care they need.

In state issues, voters are interested in candidates’ views supporting family caregivers. They want to know candidates support laws that call for hospitals to recognize and train family caregivers when loved ones are hospitalized. In light of legislation, broadening the state’s Kupuna Care program to include Medicaid recipients, voters want to know if candidates would expand access to services provided at home and in the community — including residents not eligible for Medicaid.

The months leading to November 4 election, AARP Hawaii sponsors a series of federal and state issues forums to help residents make informed decisions as they vote. Sessions will include briefing on the future of Social Security and updates on AARP’s priority state legislative issues related to caregiving and long-term care. Learn more about at aarp.org/hi.

AARP informs its members and the general public about candidates’ position on issues so they can choose candidates that best represent their views and values. Over 28 years, non-partisan voter education has been part of AARP’s mission to help Americans. AARP does not endorse candidates, have a political action committee, or make contributions to political campaigns or candidates. Visit aarp.org/yourvote.

AARP Hawai‘i state office:
808-545-6024 | Toll-Free: 866-295-7282
www.aarp.org/hi | facebook.com/AARPHawaii
twitter.com/AARPHawaii

Hawaii had the lowest voter turnout among all states in 2012 — less than half (44.5%) of voters casting ballots. Voters age 50-plus went to the polls in greater numbers than any other age group. In 2014 election, 50-plus voters could once again play a deciding role. So, what issues are on the minds of…
Hurricane Preparedness
While the Eastern Pacific hurricane season remains in effect, as does the increased possibility of potentially dangerous storms headed Hawai‘i’s way, homeowners are encouraged to shore up their roof with the goal of mitigating catastrophic damage.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Prediction Center, this year’s hurricane season that runs through November has up to an 80% chance of being enhanced by El Nino conditions. El Nino is responsible for elevating ocean temperatures and leading to above-average tropical cyclone activity in the waters surrounding Hawai‘i, thus making hurricane preparedness more important than ever.

Preparedness is best advised. Not only should you make sure your emergency provisions are up-to-date and well stocked, but your dwelling — roof — need to be checked on as well.

Here are some preventive measures to follow:

Check past service records on your roof. If more than 10 years since installation or repairs has been done, then it’s best to have a free roofing inspection pinpoint necessary improvements.

Trim encroaching tree branches

Take inventory of loose outdoor items such as coolers, patio furniture, umbrellas, awnings and other objects that could turn into dangerous projectiles when tossed by hurricane-force winds. By securing these items around the home and making sure one’s roof is intact, residents give themselves, family members and neighbors the best chance of riding out what is predicted to be a busy hurricane season.

Murakami Roofing, LLC | www.murakamiroofing.com
808-348-8270 | murakamiroofing@gmail.com
While the Eastern Pacific hurricane season remains in effect, as does the increased possibility of potentially dangerous storms headed Hawai‘i’s way, homeowners are encouraged to shore up their roof with the goal of mitigating catastrophic damage. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Prediction Center, this year’s hurricane season that runs through November…
Art on the Zoo Fence

Artist Lavonne Baldwin at the fence with her art.

Since 1953, some of Hawaii’s best local artists have displayed and sold their art on the fence of the Honolulu Zoo along Monsarrat Avenue across from Kapiolani Park.

Many artists have come and gone; including young artists just getting started in the art world, older artists that picked up art as a hobby after retirement, artists that have become very successful and a few artists that have been regular members for many years.

The artists gather every Saturday & Sunday from 9:00 am – 4:00 pm, rain or shine under the beautiful trees along Monsarrat Avenue, offering shade, a welcome reprieve from sunny Waikiki beach across the street.

As you stroll along the zoo’s fence line, you will find these artists showcasing a wide variety of art and photography; you are sure to find something you will like.

Visitors come from all over the world to view and purchase art from these artists, and many have customers who return each year.

Currently there are about 25 regular artists and spaces available for stand-by artists as well. The organization is non-profit, and each year a donation of art supplies is given away to schools and other groups.

If you are interested in displaying your art or would like more information, visit our website, www.artonthezoofence.com. And “like” us on our Facebook page, Art On The Zoo Fence.

We look forward to seeing you in beautiful Waikiki!

Since 1953, some of Hawaii’s best local artists have displayed and sold their art on the fence of the Honolulu Zoo along Monsarrat Avenue across from Kapiolani Park. Many artists have come and gone; including young artists just getting started in the art world, older artists that picked up art as a hobby after retirement,…
Bedroom & Bathroom Safety

Two of the rooms you spend the most time in — the bedroom and the bathroom — are also the most important rooms to look at if you’re considering renovations to your home.

For seniors, one of the most dangerous rooms in a home is the bathroom. Investing in enhancements here can pay huge dividends in significantly reducing the risk of accidents and injuries later. Even what can seem like simple changes, such as creating even, single-level entry into the bathroom or installing grab bars, which offers a dual function as a light, can reduce that risk for family members of all ages.

One change that homeowners don’t often think of, is moving the bathroom faucet volume control from its typical location at the back of the sink to the front of the sink, or even installing touch-censored faucets. This can be a little more work, but allows the faucets to be more easily accessed — from both a wheel chair as well as young keiki. Installing a lighted mirror with pivots can also be an added convenience.

In the bedroom, don’t let the dangers of trip and falls keep you up at night. Installing low energy lighting along the floor and bed frame is not only quick and easy, but keeps the floor and your path visible in the dark. The best part, you’ll sleep more soundly knowing you’ve done everything you can to keep every member of your family safe.

Ventus Design | 1441 Kapiolani Blvd., Suite 1115
ph 808-356-5622 | c 808-358-9135
rlewis@ventusdesignhnl.com
www.ventusdesignhonolulu.com

Two of the rooms you spend the most time in — the bedroom and the bathroom — are also the most important rooms to look at if you’re considering renovations to your home. For seniors, one of the most dangerous rooms in a home is the bathroom. Investing in enhancements here can pay huge dividends…
Senior Games 2014

Above, Mayor Kirk Caldwell gives his best, while outdoor activities are enjoyed.

The games continue on: The City & County of Honolulu’s Parks and Recreations’ 25th Annual Senior Classic Games 2014. The games were created for seniors by Herbert Yasuhara, a retired Halawa Park director.

This year there were over 270 participants (not including spectators) and a total of 88 teams from 20 senior clubs entered in 4 different games: Tunnel Vision, Peg Ball, Pin Ball and Nine Gates, with age divisions: Seniors 55 – 69 and Masters 70+. There were over 40 staff members from the Department of Parks and Recreation helped with management and execution, even the Honorable Mayor Kirk Caldwell stopped by to play a few games with the seniors.

Generations Magazine sponsored the event and presented each division’s participants with certificates of achievement and medals for outstanding performance. For information and to join next year, contact Recreation Specialist, Garrett Iwai at 808-768-3030 or email, giwai1@honolulu.gov.

Garrett Iwai, Shirley & John Macadangdang and Harrry Mizushima

The games continue on: The City & County of Honolulu’s Parks and Recreations’ 25th Annual Senior Classic Games 2014. The games were created for seniors by Herbert Yasuhara, a retired Halawa Park director. This year there were over 270 participants (not including spectators) and a total of 88 teams from 20 senior clubs entered in…
Voices of Aloha

Voices of Aloha, a multi-generational and cultural choir group, directed by Mark Yasuhara (center?)

Voices of Aloha, formerly The GleemenPlus of Honolulu, traces its origins back to 1916 when the Gleemen of Honolulu, the oldest male chorus west of the Rockies, was established. In 1996, while under the direction of Shigeru Hotoke, the group was opened to women and the name was changed to The GleemenPlus of Honolulu. In 2013, the name was finally changed to Voices of Aloha. Mark Yasuhara has directed the group since 2007.

Voices of Aloha is the quintessential community choir in that most are average singers representing a cross-section of the multi-generational, cultural, racial, and religious tapestry that is Hawai’i, singing songs the community loves. Their repertoire includes classical favorites as well as original arrangements by Mark Yasuhara of Broadway and popular tunes, patriotic anthems, and of course, the songs of the people of Hawai’i.

Yasuhara says choral singing is one of the best low-impact activities for seniors. Full-voiced singing incorporates deep, core breathing, good posture and physical coordination. Learning and performing the music challenges and focuses the mind and creates natural and easy social interaction. Unlike karaoke, choral singing encourages cooperation, support and blending with other singers. Voices of Aloha members say rehearsals are stimulating, invigorating, happy affairs, a highlight of their week.

The choir perform at civic and private functions, churches, retirement centers and nursing homes. Recently, they performed at the annual Senior Classic Games at Halawa Gym coordinated by Garrett Iwai for their 25th anniversary. The Games were created in 1989 by, then, recreational director, Herb Yasuhara, Mark’s uncle. Herb was recognized and Voices of Aloha opened the Games with a half-hour concert in his honor, concluding with the singing of “The Star Spangled Banner” and “Hawai’i Pono’i.”

All ages are welcome. The group primarily consists of seniors, including a few octogenarians. They welcome, without audition, anyone who enjoys choral singing. Since many are not music readers, rehearsal CD’s are provided and director Mark Yasuhara offers a music-reading seminar in July. Most everyone who joined as a non-music reader can, at least now, follow the notes.

Voices of Aloha meet every Tuesday at 7 pm in the Annex of the Community of Christ Church at 1666 Mott-Smith Dr. in Makiki, one block makai of Roosevelt High School, from September through May.

Performance at the The City & County of Honolulu’s Parks and Recreations’ 25th Annual Senior Classic Games 2014.

Voices of Aloha, formerly The GleemenPlus of Honolulu, traces its origins back to 1916 when the Gleemen of Honolulu, the oldest male chorus west of the Rockies, was established. In 1996, while under the direction of Shigeru Hotoke, the group was opened to women and the name was changed to The GleemenPlus of Honolulu. In…
What Do You Say to a Centenarian?

Can you imagine being born a century ago? Life must have been simpler. But reaching this century-marker is certainly a privilege.

Well, at the Ko’olau Senior Hui there is always a monthly celebration of birthdays for their seniors. And in April of this year, the Ko’olau Senior Hui had a very special celebration with a special cake. It read, “Happy 100th Birthday Mildred Wong” as she celebrated her brithday at the Kaneohe Senior Center with family and friends.

Mildred, born and raised in Kaneohe, must have seen a lot. She witnessed the world and the evolution of governments, like the Statehood of the Hawaiian Islands. Watched technology progress in leaps and bounds: AM/FM, watching black & white TV, then color. Computers were only used in large companies. Now every person owns one, small and large. The thought of organic food probably wasn’t the same as it does today. To Mildred, it was her own backyard garden. You may still see her pulling weeds in her yard at home.

The point is that she’s taken care of herself and she continues to enjoy her life and her new status as a Centenarian. And there’s the secret.

So, what do you say to a centenarian? Simply, “Happy 100th Birthday, Mildred Wong!” And Generations Magazine wishes you many more to come.

If you know of any other centenarians, send us a photo and something about him/her. Contact Sherry Goya: 808-722-8487, SGoyaLLC@aol.com

Can you imagine being born a century ago? Life must have been simpler. But reaching this century-marker is certainly a privilege. Well, at the Ko’olau Senior Hui there is always a monthly celebration of birthdays for their seniors. And in April of this year, the Ko’olau Senior Hui had a very special celebration with a…
Dancing with Life

Dancing at the Palladium, Honolulu

If you find your exercise regimen becoming boring and a chore, stop fighting it and switch to ballroom dancing!

AARP The Magazine, March 24, 2011 issue, reports that dancing is not only fun, but it’s therapeutic. Dance can, among other things, boost your cardiovascular health and bone strength as well as improve balance. Joe Verghese, professor of Neurology at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, reported that “unlike many other physical activities, dancing involves significant mental effort and social interactions.” Frequent dancing, which involves both intellectual and social stimulation, was reported as the only physical activity shown to reduce the risk of getting dementia.

So while learning dance steps with a partner, brain health and general well-being is improved while having fun exercising, socializing, and forming new friendships.

Herbert and Shirley Ota, President of HBDA

Retired Computer Specialist, Herbert Ota is a living testimony benefiting from ballroom dancing. While vacationing on a cruise, Herbert collapsed when the cruise ship docked in Vienna, Austria. On October 25, 2013, Herbert was immediately taken to a hospital where emergency triple by-pass surgery was performed.

Three months later, Herbert was on the dance floor with his wife Shirley eagerly learning the romantic Bolero with directors Ben & Faith Agbayani of the Hawaii Ballroom Dance Association (HBDA), Hawai‘i’s oldest and largest dance organization founded by Eugene Ichinose.

Preparing for the Cabaret III performance, (left to right) Millie Chun, Allyson Doherty, Jack Cione, Shirley Ota

They religiously attend dance rehearsals five times a week with a team of eight couples from the Pearlridge Chapter. They showcased their dance number at the HBDA 55th Anniversary Ball on May 3, 2014 at The Palladium in Honolulu. This celebration was a gala affair, with different dance exhibition teams representing different chapters, each choreographed by HBDA’s own creative dance instructors. In addition, Herbert had also rehearsed and prepared for CABARET III, an HBDA fundraiser directed by Jack Cione. It was a new extravagant musical comedy production with a cast of 82 performers in lavished costumes from the HBDA, Arcadia and Craigside.

With all of Herbert’s scheduled dance rehearsals, he is recuperating well and gaining his strength back from his open-heart surgery. He is looking simply great, a testament to the wonders of dance therapy with the HBDA.

You are never too young or too old to learn to dance. If you would like to get in good shape, stay physically fit and mentally alert, while having fun and making new friends, contact any one of our HBDA chapters.

HBDA is “the place to learn to dance”. You are invited and more than welcome to come, and dance with us!

Hawaii Ballroom Dance Association (HBDA)
808-753-8673 | hawaiiballroomdance@hawaii.rr.com
www.hbda-hawaii.org

If you find your exercise regimen becoming boring and a chore, stop fighting it and switch to ballroom dancing! AARP The Magazine, March 24, 2011 issue, reports that dancing is not only fun, but it’s therapeutic. Dance can, among other things, boost your cardiovascular health and bone strength as well as improve balance. Joe Verghese,…
A Secured Estimate is a Secured Roof

With Independence Day on the horizon and summer shifting into gear, homeowners are encouraged to address pending roof-related issues to ensure the safety and longevity of one’s home. A professional roofing company should be contacted for any roof upgrades. It is recommended that a few estimates from companies verified by the Better Business Bureau or referrals from friends and family be looked into first.

By researching the company’s portfolio and references, customers can weed out inexperienced, fly-by-night operations that could produce shoddy results, costing more in the long run.

It is also recommended that homeowners check with the State’s Regulated Industries Complaints Office: 808-587-3295 or www.cca.hawaii.gov/rico/business_online/, to determine the status of a company’s licensing information and history.

Once you’ve nailed down two or three estimates, you can do a real in-depth comparison by asking those companies for information on the industry’s new and popular roofing materials. Don’t let price be the determining factor — consider the quality of materials.

When choosing a roofing company, make sure they are licensed and bonded with a general liability insurance. This is to insure peace of mind and the safety of your home. The end result, a happy homeowner with a new roof.

This 4th of July, let’s all raise our flags to honor our veterans who sacrificed their own lives for our freedom.

Murakami Roofing | www.murakamiroofing.com
808-348-8270 | murakamiroofing@gmail.com

With Independence Day on the horizon and summer shifting into gear, homeowners are encouraged to address pending roof-related issues to ensure the safety and longevity of one’s home. A professional roofing company should be contacted for any roof upgrades. It is recommended that a few estimates from companies verified by the Better Business Bureau or…
From the Top
If your goal is to age in place, don’t let your roof age with you. Consider getting a roof inspection to determine its structural integrity and lifespan. Regular inspections — approximately every three years — can detect problems or issues before they have a chance to cause major damage.

Do not attempt to climb a ladder or inspect the roof yourself. Hire a licensed, professional roofer who can examine your roof’s structure, checking it for hazards such as:

Leaks that can cause mold to grow and lead to major health problems, especially for asthmatics and people with allergies. Mold is often devastating for furniture, carpets and curtains. Precious books, photos, artwork, video and audiotapes can also be ruined by the fungus.

Gradual breakdown of rafters and flashing can provide an inviting environment for pests, such as rats, centipedes, roaches and ground termites.

An old roof provides little protection against the most unwanted visitor of all — a hurricane. Even Hawai‘’ seasonal tropical storms can generate destructive winds, especially in neighborhoods on high ridges.

What’s a homeowner to do?

Know your roof’ history and keep track of replacement and repair dates so you’l know when it’ nearing the end of its lifecycle.

Notice signs of deterioration, such as pieces of shingle in the yard or granulated finish from shingles in the drain spout.

Keep gutters clean and hire help to trim back overhanging vegetation regularly. Maintenance is critical to a roof’ health

Murakami Roofing | www.murakamiroofing.com
808-348-8270 | murakamiroofing@gmail.com
If your goal is to age in place, don’t let your roof age with you. Consider getting a roof inspection to determine its structural integrity and lifespan. Regular inspections — approximately every three years — can detect problems or issues before they have a chance to cause major damage. Do not attempt to climb a…
Chef Michi: Hawai’i-Infused Buttermilk Buckwheat Pancakes
There’s nothing like a lazy weekend morning to enjoy a family breakfast together. This take on pancakes is healthier in many aspects, but the flavors will overcome any fear of “healthy” eating.

Ingredients:

2 cups of lowfat buttermilk, divided

1 cup buckwheat flour

1 cup all-purpose flour

1-1/2 tsp. baking powder

1/2 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. baking soda

2 eggs, lightly beaten

2 Tbsp. canola oil

2 bananas, thinly sliced

Cooking spray for pan or griddle

Sweetened, shredded coconut

1/2 cup macadamia nut, chopped

Syrup (maple or coconut)

Directions:

Combine the dry ingredients in a bowl and set aside. In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, canola oil and 1 Tbsp. of syrup. Stir the dry ingredients into the buttermilk mixture and add half of the sliced banana. Heat pan or griddle on medium heat, prepare with cooking spray and pour 2 – 3 tablespoons of batter per pancake onto the heated surface. Cook for 2 minutes or until batter starts to bubble, then flip and cook another two minutes.

To serve, top each stack of pancakes with sliced banana, coconut and chopped macadamia nut. Then let everyone drizzle on their own syrup and enjoy!

Serves: 6 | Time: 30 minutes

Chef Michi
808-286-6484 | cookingfreshforyou@gmail.com
www.cookingfreshforyou.com
There’s nothing like a lazy weekend morning to enjoy a family breakfast together. This take on pancakes is healthier in many aspects, but the flavors will overcome any fear of “healthy” eating. Ingredients: 2 cups of lowfat buttermilk, divided 1 cup buckwheat flour 1 cup all-purpose flour 1-1/2 tsp. baking powder 1/2 tsp. salt 1/4…