Category: May – June 2025

  • Navigating Hawai‘i’s Condo Laws, Part 2

    Part 2 of this two-part series continues navigation of the challenges that can be found in the complex world of condominium law and how to pave the way for reform. Governance Gone Wrong Several recent incidents illustrate the challenges facing Hawai‘i’s community associations. On Hawai‘i Island, a condominium board began repairing common area la¯nai structures…

  • Having a Child

    Bringing a baby into this world is one of life’s greatest joys. Along with this joy comes responsibility and concern for the raising of this child. The preparation for having a child and raising a child is vast — finding a child seat for the car, diapers, interviewing pediatricians, childcare, safe-proofing the home and schooling,…

  • One Trust or Two?

    Should a married couple create one trust or two? To some extent, it comes down to a matter of preference. Some couples see their stuff as belonging to both of them, while others differentiate between one spouse’s stuff and the other’s. Differentiation might be important if one spouse has children from a prior marriage, and…

  • Test Drive Your Retirement Plan

    Two emotions are common for those who are nearing retirement — excitement and fear. Leaving the working world behind can feel empowering; however, apprehension about entering a new life stage may also creep in. If you’re nearing retirement, you’ve likely taken steps to prepare financially for the future. But there’s one important thing you might…

  • A Lifeline for Tenants & Landlords

    Managing rental agreements can be challenging, especially when tenants face financial difficulties. When rent isn’t paid and communication breaks down, eviction often becomes the next step. However, there’s a way to address these issues before they escalate into legal proceedings. The Early Eviction Mediation (EEM) program is a neutral, solution-based approach whereby tenants and landlords…

  • Nourishing Kūpuna: Body & Soul

    Lana grew up in Kalihi, where her exceptional voice was recognized early on. Her family often said, “You have a voice you can hear three blocks away!” This talent led her to study at the University of Hawai‘i and later at San Jose State University, where she earned a master’s degree in vocal performance and…

  • Independence & Senior Living

    Eleanor Katz used to drive to a gym for her exercise classes. When she wanted to dine with friends, she arranged it. When she volunteered (a passion since this New York native was living in Brooklyn), she left her home to do so. Now she does all those things at the senior living community where…

  • Self-Care for Caregivers

    Caregivers are at a great risk of overwhelming stress and burnout due to the enormous responsibility put on them. But as the saying goes, “You can’t pour from an empty cup.” So what are some realistic ways to “refill your cup?” The first step is to create space and time to care for yourself. Think…

  • The Goodbye That Continues to Wave

    When I was growing up, it was a custom for my family to wave goodbye to those leaving after a visit. We waved at the door, the end of the driveway and the airport. We waved until we could no longer see them, their car or plane! With tears in our eyes, we waved. In…

  • Make Oral Health a Family Tradition

    As we age, oral health becomes even more essential in order to maintain a healthy mouth, not just for ourselves, but also as an example for future generations. Passing down the tradition of good oral hygiene habits can have a lasting impact on your keiki and grandchildren. Just as traditions like family meals and shared…

  • The YMCA: Your Second Home

    Many seniors first step into the Y because their doctor says they need to keep moving. Others stop in for a visit because their health plan includes a free membership. Some are nudged to give “the Y” a try by family members who want them to get out and stay engaged. But what happens next…

  • 125th Anniversary of Okinawans in Hawai‘i

    This year, the Hawaii United Okinawa Association (HUOA) proudly celebrates the 125th anniversary of Okinawan immigration to Hawai‘i — a milestone that not only marks our history, but also acknowledges the resilience, achievements and cultural legacy of our ancestors. Since the arrival of the first 26 Okinawan immigrants in 1900, the community has grown into…