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Go “Explore the Shore” with family and friends at this year’s Punahou Carnival, which returns with new beach vibes and ocean themes found throughout in the decorations, colors and fun booth names.

Click to the information you want to explore:

What Is Punahou Carnival?

One of O‘ahu’s most beloved annual events, this carnival is a Punahou School tradition that has been bringing the community together since 1932. What started originally as a small fundraiser for the school’s yearbook has grown into a two-day massive event that raises money for Punahou’s financial aid program. Each year, more than 4,500 students, parents and alumni volunteer work hard to plan and bring the carnival to life. There’s plenty to do, shop and eat: games, rides, local plants, art, mango chutney and everyone’s favorite: freshly made malasadas.

Where and When

The Punahou Carnival will take place on Friday, Feb. 2, and Saturday, Feb. 3, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., at Punahou’s lower campus in M?noa. The address is 1601 Punahou St. You’ll find the main entrance at the corner of Punahou Street and Wilder Avenue.

Parking isn’t easy to find on site, so consider these community parking spaces—many organizations are partnering with Punahou School just for the carnival, and parking fees go toward their individual fundraisers.

If the thought of finding and paying for parking is killing your vibes, consider catching TheBus routes 4, 5 or 18. Or ask a family member or that friend who owes you one to drop you off and pick you up! You can also opt for a ride-hailing service like Lyft or Uber.

Photo: Courtesy of Punahou School

How to Pay

Admission is free. Scrip are required for Punahou’s food, games and other booths. You may remember that the carnival did not accept any cash or the E.K. Fernandez FunPass last year—they are bringing both back for 2024.

You can purchase scrip with cash at the Box Office in Dillingham Hall. At all other locations, the staff will take all major credit cards, Apple Pay and Google Pay. Note that debit cards will require a PIN.

To purchase an E.K. Fernandez FunPass for E.K. Fernandez games and rides, head to the trailers on the Lower Field. They will accept cash only, and FunPasses are nonrefundable.

Photo: Courtesy of Punahou School

Rides

E.K. Fernandez kiddie rides are back this year, and you can purchase the FunPass with cash only at trailers across Lower Field during Carnival. Here’s the list of rides:

Open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Open 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

What to Do at Punahou Carnival

Photo: Courtesy of Punahou School

The Art Gallery will feature more than 1,000 artworks by nearly 300 artists, including paintings, prints, drawings, sculptures, ceramics and glass. The gallery will be at Bishop Learning Center, with a preview opening night on Tuesday, Jan. 30, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. All works are available for sale, and proceeds are split between the artist and the carnival fundraiser.

If thrifting is your jam, check out the White Elephant tent where you can score bargains in second-hand goods like clothing, toys, books, music and much more. These items are collected throughout the year by volunteers, and all proceeds support the school’s financial aid program.

This year’s silent auction is online again and accessible to the public. The auction opens on Wednesday, Jan. 31, at noon for online bidding. In-person viewing will take place during the carnival on Friday, Feb. 2, from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Saturday, Feb. 3, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. All bidding closes on Saturday, Feb. 3, at 4 p.m. at Luke Lecture Hall in Wo International Center. Each year, there’s a wide variety of items and experiences for sale, like show tickets, spa treatments, jewelry and more.

The senior class puts together a performance each year for the carnival—they’re involved in everything from writing to graphic design, costumes, set construction and stage management. This year, 24,000 Leagues Under The Sea is hosted by James Coral, and you’ll need to help find missing stars(fish) in the Great Barrier Reef. Purchase tickets early for the 50-minute show, as seats sell out fast. Tickets are priced at $20. Showtimes are 1 and 5 p.m. on both days.

Photo: Courtesy of Punahou School

Games

Keiki and adults of all ages can enjoy plenty of fun games, including:

Photo: Courtesy of Punahou School

What to Eat at Punahou Carnival

Did you know that Punahou Carnival sells about 120,000 malasadas each year? These deep-fried pieces of doughy goodness are rolled in more than 5,000 pounds of (donated) sugar. With their popularity, there are two malasada booths to manage demand, as well as two burger booths. Here’s what’s on the menu:

SEE ALSO: 120,000 Malasadas and Other Fast Facts About Punahou Carnival Food

Entertainment

Coming soon

Photo: Courtesy of Punahou School

Tips

Punahou Carnival, Feb. 2 and 3, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Punahou School, 1601 Punahou St., punahou.edu, @punahouschool

HONOLULU (KHON2) — Oahu has seen a wave of recent power outages. A couple of weeks ago the whole island was put on alert after a power plant went offline amid a storm causing rolling blackouts.

Check out more news from around Hawaii

Hawaii State Senate Energy, Economic Development, and Tourism Vice Chair Glenn Wakai stopped by Wake Up 2Day Wednesday morning with some insight on how we can improve our grid.

Hawaii’s electric costs are 62% higher than the national average and double the global average. How do we make this transition and keep costs in check?

“From an energy policy standpoint there are three R’s, it’s reliability make sure the lights go on when I flip the switch,” Sen. Wakai said. “Second is reasonable, the prices in Hawaii are three times the national average we pay 42 cents per kilowatt hour in Hawaii, on the mainland it’s like 12-14 cents. The third thing is renewable and we saw that we don’t have reliability the most important aspect of the three R’s we don’t have reliability with intermittent because we’re at the mercy of mother nature.”

The goal of the Hawaii Clean Energy Initiative is to achieve 100 percent clean energy by 2045. Sen. Wakai says we can get there without things like rolling power outages.

“I think we have to manage our pace a little bit better. What we saw two weeks ago with rain and cloud cover shows the shortcomings of intermittent renewable power. Solar and batteries are important but they cannot be relied on 100 percent of the time, which we saw with the blackouts,”

When it comes to power generation, there are intermittent renewables like solar and wind. although battery storage can make those firmer sources. Firm renewables that don’t rely on weather conditions like geothermal are being investigated by the state’s chief energy officer Mark Glick, who says they’re exploring geothermal on Maui and Oahu.

“I think geothermal has huge potential,” Sen. Wakai said. “When you think about geothermal, particularly on the Big Island, we have the active volcano here in Hawaii. So Madam Pele is always creating heat. Once you have heat you can create steam which can turn a turbine and all of a sudden we have power generation.”

Sen. Wakai adds that there is also a possibility of being an energy exporter with geothermal.

“The key is if we can go to geothermal and then put it into hydrogen, then we can containerize and then we can actually export energy sometime in the future,” said Sen. Wakai.

He believes that after exploratory wells are dug to find hotspots, there is a 5 to 10-year trajectory to create geothermal and also to create hydrogen.

Gluten-free crepes and umami-packed curry made with wagyu drippings broth are deep inside a grocery store.

January 25, 2024

Most people shopping at International Marketplace don’t realize there are some tantalizing vendors inside Mitsuwa, the Japanese grocery on the second floor. Heck, they probably don’t even know there’s a food court in the back of the store!

Last summer, food court owner Mike Yoshino brought in the limited-time Hokkaido ramen festival, which introduced bowls from different ramen makers on Japan’s northern island. Since then, Yoshino has been launching other pop-ups in Waik?k? on three-month rotations. The newest, Kanazawa Curry and Mochill, just opened a couple of weeks ago.

SEE ALSO: Where to Park in Waik?k?

Kanazawa curry—created in that city in 1955 and trademarked in 2005—is distinct from other Japanese curry in that it’s richer, thicker and deep brown. Proteins including sausage, tonkatsu or chicken katsu are placed on top (which is good for the Instagram!). Then it’s served on a stainless steel platter with shredded cabbage and drizzled with a savory sauce.

Mitsuwa’s Kanazawa curry vendor has a secret ingredient that gives it an extra layer of richness and umami. In the same food court, Yoshino’s Omusubi Fujimaru sells wagyu at relatively more affordable prices—everything from a small steak to a Flintstone-sized slab. The Kanazawa curry is made with broth derived from the wagyu trimmings.

The best-selling curry combo ($18.50) includes two fried shrimp and a sliced filet of chicken or pork katsu. We also tried the fried shrimp curry and the chicken karaage curry (both $16.75). It doesn’t matter which proteins you choose since they are basically good, meaty and crunchy. But the curry sauce is definitely a (wagyu) cut above, with layers of complexity and rich flavor. My family gave resounding approval.

For dessert, there are mochi crepes from the new Mochill, a famous mochi doughnut shop from California. Most of the menu is a variation of strawberry, banana, strawberry and banana crepes (they’re not selling the doughnuts here) with layers of toppings like ice cream or whipped cream. We tried the basic strawberry banana with whipped cream ($11.50), the kuromitsu kinako with ice cream ($13.50) and an açaí ($15) that’s one of five Hawai‘i-exclusive flavors. You can’t go wrong with whatever filling you prefer. My favorite, which is also a staff favorite, was the açaí since it wasn’t too sweet and had nice contrasts of flavors and textures.

Speaking of texture, Mochill’s use of mochi flour—these crepes are gluten-free—creates an extra chewiness, though the texture is still light.

The Mitsuwa food court is open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. Validated parking is free for the first hour with a minimum $25 (total) purchase from these pop-ups in Waik?k? or anywhere at International Marketplace; after that, it’s $2 per hour for the next two hours.

2330 Kal?kaua Ave., @mitsuwawaikiki_foodhall, @mochillsf

LAS VEGAS, Nev.--The University of Hawai'i men's tennis team (0-3) opened the UNLV Quad event to host UNLV, 4-1 on Friday morning at the Fertitta Tennis Complex. The Rainbow Warriors got edged out for the doubles point and continued to battle in singles, but the Rebels were able to close out three of the first four singles matches that finished to improve to 2-0 for 2024.

UNLV held off UH in doubles to start the match. The Rainbow Warriors' and fell to UNLV's Illia Maksymochuk and Taiyo Hirano, 6-1 at No. 2. Hawai'i's No. 3 duo of and fell just short by a break as UNLV's Joseph Chen and Aaron Bailey secured the doubles point, 7-5. On Court No. 1, UH's and were knotted at 5-5 with the Rebels' Anton Ornberg and Jackson Atherton, but their match went unfinished.

The Rebels took their momentum into singles, winning at No. 6 and 5 to take a 3-0 lead. But Hawai'i's No. 4 Collins broke up the shutout by defeating Maksymchuk in straight sets. Collins fended off Maksymchuk by a break in the first set, then blanked him in the second to notch UH's first singles win of the season, 7-5, 6-0. UNLV then clinched the match on the No. 1 court as Omberg defeated UH's Snyder, 7-6, 6-1. When the match was clinched Hawai'i's No. 2 Hernandez's match vs. Chen was tied at a set apiece, while UH's Tattevin was trailing in a close match vs. Dusan Rsovac down, 7-5, 5-4.

The match vs. UNLV marked a return to UH's lineup for UH's lone senior who wasn't able to compete until this week.

Hawai'i will play a double header on Saturday starting with former WAC foe, New Mexico State at 7:30 a.m. HT followed by current Big West opponent, UC Riverside at 12:30 p.m. Ht in a non-conference clash. All matches will be played at the Fertitta Tennis Complex in Las Vegas, Nev.

UNLV 4, Hawaii 1 Jan. 26, 2024 at Las Vegas (Fertitta Tennis Complex) Singles competition 1. Anton Ornberg (UNLV) def. Snyder, Quinn (UH) 7-6, 6-1 2. Joseph Chen (UNLV) vs. Hernandez, Andy (UH) 6-2, 5-7, unfinished 3. Dusan Rsovac (UNLV) vs. Tattevin, Guillaume (UH) 7-5, 5-4, unfinished 4. Collins, Karl (UH) def. Illia Maksymchuk (UNLV) 7-5, 6-0 5. Martin Jovenin (UNLV) def. Somerville, Andrew (UH) 6-4, 6-2 6. Taiyo Hirano (UNLV) def. Urano, Sohta (UH) 6-2, 6-0

Doubles competition 1. Anton Ornberg/Jackson Atherton (UNLV) vs. Snyder, Quinn/Hernandez, Andy (UH) 5-5, unfinished 2. Illia Maksymchuk/Taiyo Hirano (UNLV) def. Collins, Karl/Somerville, Andrew (UH) 6-1 3. Joseph Chen/Aaron Bailey (UNLV) def. Urano, Sohta/Tattevin, Guillaume (UH) 7-5

Match Notes: Order of finish: Doubles (2,3); Singles (6,5,4,1) Hawai'i (0-3), UNLV (2-0)

HONOLULU (KHON2) — Who doesn’t love the brilliant creativity and gorgeous art that defines Broadway?

From the Phantom of the Opera and Wicked to Moose Murders and Via Galactica, Broadway offers some of the most financed and marketed plays and musicals in the world.

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In Hawai?i, two Broadway veterans moved to Honolulu nearly 10 years ago. They have integrated themselves into the community and have embarked on bringing some of Broadway’s best shows to Hawai?i audiences.

James Corry and Evans Siskel are the creatives behind Hawai?i Artspace. It’s a non-profit entity that is dedicated to bringing creative opportunities to local actors and audiences.

Corry has an extensive background in theatre. His MFA in theatre design was achieved on a full scholarship and graduate assistant program at NYU. In his career, he earned membership in the United Scenic Artists union upon graduating and working on and off Broadway in NYC and on feature films and documentaries.

Locally, he became known for creating the costumes for nine shows and the sets for three at a local community theatre. Additionally, Corry designed and made the looks for the current Queen of Queens winner of the BOA Arts Ball. His local achievements include three Po’Okela awards from The Hawai’i State Theatre Council; and in 2021, he became the Creative Director of the newly formed Hawai’i ArtSpace

His husband Evans Siskel’s primary role in the organization is Executive Administrator and Board Treasurer. He has a bachelor’s degree in psychology and education with a minor in dance. He followed this up by becoming a graduate gemologist in New York’s famed diamond industry.

Another important player in Hawai?i Artspace’s development was Bree Kale’a Peters, She was the Artistic Director of Hawai’i ArtSpace and was the principal visionary that developed the organization. Peters was known as an actress, director, producer and puppetry specialist. Her nearly 40-year relationship with M?noa Valley Theatre included decades as Associate Producer and Artistic Director.

Both Hawai’i ArtSpace and the Hawai’i ArtSpace Alliance play significant roles in promoting and supporting the arts in Hawai’i. The organization focuses on creating meaningful and engaging experiences for both artists and the community????.

You can experience all that Hawai?i Artspace has to offer at a new show they are having Feb. 24.

It promises to be a Broadway explosion that features short acts from:

The performances will feature local talent on stage and behind the scenes and promises to be a magical, fun-filled experience. You can click here for more information on Hawai?i Artspace as well as the Broadway Review.

Get news on the go with KHON 2GO, KHON’s morning podcast, every morning at 8

Well, what are you waiting for? Space is limited and tickets are selling fast! So, go book your tickets and support local actors and creatives.

Watch a play about Robert Louis Stevenson in S?moa, check out art created by surfers and dance the night away with fellow Swifties.

Aitu Fafine

Thursday, Jan. 25, through Sunday, Feb. 25, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 7 p.m., Sundays at 2 p.m.

No show on Sunday, Feb. 11; ASL interpretation available on Sunday, Feb. 18

This play follows the famous writer Robert Louis Stevenson and his family who meet two ‘afakasi visitors at their home in Vailima, S?moa. The play explores dreams, literary musings and ghost stories as relationships at the home evolve and collide.

$5 to $25, Kumu Kahua Theatre, 46 Merchant St., kumukahua.org, @kumukahua

SEE ALSO: Honolulu Theater and Musicals: Winter Lineup

Closing Reception: “Surf’s Up” Exhibit

Through Friday, Jan. 26

“Surf’s Up” will feature art by surfers and other artists, including the 1978–79 World Champion Woman Surfer, Lynne Boyer. The show will include both well-known and emerging artists, with both original work and pop-up items such as prints, paints and cards.

Free, The Arts at Marks Garage, 1159 Nu‘uanu Ave., artsatmarks.com, @artsatmarks

SEE ALSO: 40 Amazing Things to Do

Dog Adoption at American Floor & Home

Saturday, Jan. 27, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The Hawaiian Humane Society is partnering with American Floor & Home to host a dog adoption event. Go meet your new best friend and help the Humane Society find homes for the dogs in their care.

Free, American Floor & Home, 302 Sand Island Access Rd., hawaiianhumane.org, @hawaiianhumane

SEE ALSO: Family Night Out: 8 Things to Do on O‘ahu

Living History Day at the Battleship Missouri Memorial

Saturday, Jan. 27, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Commemorate the 80th anniversary of the USS Missouri’s launch and the 25th anniversary of its public opening as a historic attraction at Pearl Harbor. Enjoy displays of military vehicles, memorabilia, and weaponry, live patriotic music, oral history and re-enactment presentations, people in period dress from the World War II era and static displays from active-duty military units.

Family-friendly event, free for kama‘?ina, military and Mighty Mo members, regular admission fee for all other guests, Battleship Missouri Memorial, 63 Cowpens St., ussmissouri.org

SEE ALSO: PBS Hawai‘i Celebrates 25 Years of N? Mele

Honolulu Li‘ili‘i a ‘Ike Maka 2024

Saturday, Jan. 27, 8:15 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Come out to test your skills against other speedcubers or just hang out with fellow cube enthusiasts at this official World Cube Association competition. Walk-in registration is available in cash or PayPal at the door.

Free for spectators, $35 registration, University of Hawai‘i at M?noa, 2465 Campus Rd., worldcubeassociation.org

SEE ALSO: We Tried It: Loess Spa Korean Body Scrub and Meridian Therapy

Kids in the Kitchen

Saturday, Jan. 27, 10 a.m. to noon and 1 to 3 p.m.

Keiki can learn how to make lucky mochi and arare crunch cookies at this drop-off program, recommended for children ages 6 to 12 years old. Substitutions are not available for dietary restrictions or allergies. If the class is full, your child will be put on the waitlist, and you will get an update if a space becomes available.

Family-friendly event, $25 to $30, Hawai‘i Children’s Discovery Center, 111 Ohe St., discoverycenterhawaii.org, @hawaiichildrensdiscoverycenter

SEE ALSO: Where to Buy Local Farm-Fresh Eggs on O‘ahu

The Taylor Party

Friday, Jan. 26, 9 p.m.

Swifties, this is your night to bring your besties and shake it off as you sing and dance through all of Taylor Swift’s iconic Eras.

$15 to $25, The Republik, 1349 Kapi‘olani Blvd. #30, jointherepublik.com, @jointherepublik

SEE ALSO: Your Ultimate Guide to Concerts and Live Music in Honolulu

Punahou Carnival 2024 Art Gallery Opening

Tuesday, Jan. 30, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Get a first look at Punahou Carnival’s art gallery, featuring more than 1,000 artworks by nearly 300 Hawai‘i artists. Works range from paintings, prints, drawings, sculptures, ceramics and glass. The gallery will open briefly for opening night, then reopen during the carnival, which takes place Friday, Feb. 2, and Saturday, Feb. 3. Sales from each art piece will be evenly shared between the artists and Punahou School’s fundraising efforts for student financial aid.

Free, Punahou School, Bishop Learning Center, 1601 Punahou St., punahou.edu/carnival, @punahouschool

SEE ALSO: 120,000 Malasadas and Other Fast Facts About Punahou Carnival Food

Photo: Courtesy of Hawaiian Mission Houses

Rediscovering History

Saturday, Jan. 27, 10:30 a.m.

The Hawaiian Mission Houses Historic Site and Archives brings history to life with scripted actor portrayals of three figures from Hawai‘i’s history: Edna Allyn, Emma Nakuina and George R. Carter. All three played a significant role in the history of libraries, archives and museums in Hawai‘i.

Free, Hawai‘i State Library – Main Branch, 478 South King St., missionhouses.org, @hawaiian_mission_houses

SEE ALSO: 10 New & Coming Restaurants on O‘ahu: January 2024

No Ka Poli O Hi‘ilei: Honoring Charles Reed Bishop

Thursday, Jan. 25, 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.

Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum celebrates its founder Charles Reed Bishop on the 201st anniversary of his birth with special presentations and tours. The event includes lei presentation, museum staff tributes and a special guest presentation by Punahou School’s Kuaihelani Kikowaena ‘Ike Hawai‘i. There will be special tours of the Hawaiian Hall Complex honoring Bishop’s contributions to the history of Hawai‘i throughout the day.

Free with admission, Bishop Museum, Hawaiian Hall Complex, 1525 Bernice St., bishopmuseum.org, @bishopmuseum

The Challenge

In order to stay compliant with brand guidelines, Hilton Waikiki Beach needed to upgrade the TVs in its 601 guest rooms. They also wanted to expand their digital signage program to include several displays in the on-site diner and at the concierge desk. In the lobby bar, they would add a 146-inch microLED display in a concerted effort to enhance the guest experience while attracting more local foot traffic.

The Solution

Hilton Waikiki Beach’s owner is a tech-oriented entrepreneur who has experienced success with Samsung products in the past. When local installers recommended The Wall from Samsung for the lobby bar, these positive brand experiences and its stunning visual clarity and unparalleled contrast made the choice easy. Guest rooms received an upgrade from 55-inch Samsung 4K Hospitality TVs to new 4K 65-inch models. The concierge desk and the hotel’s diner, M.A.C. 24/7, were outfitted with four and eight 65-inch displays respectively.

"We want the hotel to become part of locals' community living experience."

– Henry Perez

The Results

Larger displays in guest rooms make for a more enjoyable in-room viewing experience. In the lobby bar, guests and local residents can mingle to watch sports, news or videos of island scenery on a brand-new, 146-inch The Wall. Above the concierge desks, four 65-inch displays play videos of Oahu activities that guests can book on-site. At the diner, patrons can catch up on the news or watch the game while they enjoy a made-to-order meal.

About Hilton Waikiki Beach

The Hilton Waikiki Beach on Kuhio Avenue is a 601-room full-service hotel offering beautiful ocean and mountain views and 17,000 square-feet of function space. The 10thfloor Recreation Deck, 17,000 square-feet, boasts a large pool and spa, 9-hole miniature golf course, large poolside cabanas, daybeds, firepits and the Hang 10 bar. The LBLE Lounge is home to The Wall All-In-One 4k display, a 146-inch Direct View LED Display, one of the largest displays in the Hawaiian Islands. It is located just one block from Waikiki’s beaches, shopping, dining and entertainment.

The Challenge

Staying brand-compliant and upgrading the guest viewing experience

Standing on a section of Prince Kuhio Kalaniana’ole Pi’ikoi’s former home, Hilton Waikiki Beach occupies a prime location one block from the ocean in the heart of Waikiki. Being in the midst of the island’s action, the hotel attracts many types of travelers — in particular, government workers who are typically on-site for several days. It’s also a popular hangout for locals who come to enjoy the atmosphere in the lobby bar, which overlooks a lush garden terrace.

To stay compliant with Hilton brand guidelines that require in-room upgrades every five to seven years, the hotel needed to remove all 55-inch TVs from guest rooms and replace them with 65-inch models. Due to their positive experience with Samsung TVs, they upgraded to the 65-inch Samsung 4K Hospitality TVs. At the same time, they wanted to expand their digital signage program into several common areas of the hotel — including the lobby bar, the concierge desk and an on-site restaurant — to outfit additional Samsung displays.

“Having the latest technology was very important,” said general manager Henry Perez. “We also needed a user-friendly solution that both guests and employees could easily control.”

A 98-inch Samsung display served as a centerpiece in the lobby bar for the previous two years, but the owner wanted to go even bigger. The goal? Provide a stunning way to view content such as news and sports for both guests and local patrons. In order to attract more foot traffic and give guests a unique and memorable experience, Hilton Waikiki Beach needed a wow-worthy solution in the lobby area and a way to bring visual interest to additional areas of the hotel.

The Solution

In-room TV upgrades and tech additions for the ultimate "wow factor"

Hilton Waikiki Beach operates under the umbrella of Stanford Hotels, and its owner is a tech-savvy hotelier with a portfolio of 18 properties from Seattle to Boca Raton. In addition to having Samsung TVs in all guest rooms, three Stanford Hotels properties have large-format displays in the lobby — and they’ve been a hit with guests.

“We’ve had a lot of success with Samsung TVs in our guest rooms,” Perez said. “When the installers recommended The Wall, the owner felt comfortable with their suggestion since he’s always had positive experiences with the brand.”

The lobby bar, LBLE, already had a Samsung display: a 98-inch above the bar. There was also a projector on the wall opposite the garden terrace, which was recently replaced by Samsung’s largest and most stunning display, the 146-inch model of The Wall. Boasting Black Seal and Ultra Chroma technology, a deep black background uniformly blankets the screen to show colors two times purer and more accurate than conventional LEDs.

“When you compare The Wall head-to-head with other products, the differences are very clear,” said Vince Mitchell, founder and CEO of Pacific Digital Signs, which helped with installation of The Wall. “Standard LCD video walls have seams, but with LED you can create one seamless image — and The Wall’s contrast, high-bright environment, and black levels are unparalleled.”

The Wall also streamlines installation since the control box is built into the display, eliminating the cumbersome configuration process. Installation typically takes only two hours for two people, and, in this case, construction was only required so that the display sits flush against the wall inside a steel frame.

“From the way the cabinets are designed to the way the modules are built, The Wall has drastically simplified the installation process,” Mitchell said.

Guest room TVs were upgraded from 55-inch to 65-inch QLED 4K Hospitality TVs, whose Quantum HDR technology creates a true-to-life viewing experience with vibrant imagery that preserves every detail. The concierge area received four new 65-inch Hospitality TVs, while the on-site diner, M.A.C. 24/7, received a total of eight new displays.

The Technology

A deep black background and enhanced depth delivers an unmatched viewing experience. With a simplified installation process and a built-in control box, The Wall: All-in-One is the ideal LED video wall.

On Samsung’s Hospitality TVs, 100% Color Volume and Quantum Dot transforms light into breathtaking color, while the Native Netflix OTT App allows guests to stream content effortlessly.

The Results

A tech transformation to attract locals and guests alike

Since the remodel, Hilton Waikiki Beach visitors now enjoy on-screen entertainment via luxurious 65-inch 4K LED displays inside guest rooms. A dedicated Hilton channel features attractions and activities throughout Oahu such as Pearl Harbor, scenic hikes, snorkeling sites and museums that spark inspiration to soak up the island’s culture. The integrated Netflix over-the-top (OTT) app allows guests to stream content from their own account right to their room.

The lobby bar, which received the biggest overhaul, now features a 146-inch The Wall in addition to the 98-inch display. The first of its kind in Hawaii, business travelers, families and locals alike are consistently awed by The Wall’s size and crystal-clear image clarity.

“Revenues have increased because people are enjoying that atmosphere. You can feel the place moving and jumping.” — Henry Perez

“Local residents can come in and watch sporting events they might not be able to watch in their own homes, and it gets them out and about in the neighborhood,” Perez said. “We want the hotel to become part of their community living experience.”

Located above the main bar, The Wall operates on a preset schedule. Starting at 6 a.m., it plays Hawaii scenes like windsurfing, hiking, and lava flows on Big Island. From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., the screen is split into four sections that play a combination of news and sports. Then at 2 p.m., the screen switches to the biggest sports event of the day and returns to Hawaii scenery when the major sports events are finished.

“Sunday football starts at 7 a.m. and is done at noon,” Perez said. “Monday night football is at 3 p.m., so sports are done fairly early here.”

The 98-inch Samsung display remains in the lobby and can be set up to play the same or different content as The Wall as guests sip hand-crafted cocktails at the bar or on stylish settees overlooking the garden terrace. Over at the concierge desk, guests can watch videos of luaus, zip lines, helicopter tours, and other activities that can be booked on-site on four 65-inch displays. At the lively M.A.C. 24/7 diner, guests can catch up on news, sports, and more on the restaurant’s eight displays.

Hilton Waikiki’s technology upgrade not only enhances the guest experience, it makes for a profitable addition to the hotel. By creating a space that features something seen nowhere else in the state, its operators aim to attract visitors and locals who seek a unique, one-of-a-kind Oahu experience.

“I have seen an increase in how long guests linger in the lobby or bar areas than they did in the past,” Perez said. “Revenues have increased because people are enjoying that atmosphere. You can feel the place moving and jumping.”

Needing a boost after dropping the first set, the No. 4 Hawaii men’s volleyball team went to its bench to win its road opener of the 2024 season.

Senior Alaka’i Todd hit .667 with 12 kills in 18 swings after sitting out the first set and Chaz Galloway returned from a two-match absence to hit .412 with nine kills and seven digs to lead the Rainbow Warriors to a 22-25, 25-13, 25-21, 25-14 victory over Purdue Fort Wayne on Thursday night at Arnie Ball Court at Gates Sports Center in Fort Wayne, Ind.

Spyros Chakas added 12 kills, and freshman Tread Rosenthal finished with a match-high 33 assists and 10 digs for Hawaii, which improved to 4-1 with its third straight win.

“We were a little just, kind of, off in that first set,” Hawaii coach Charlie Wade said. “We just weren’t playing volleyball very well. We went back to our more familiar lineup with Chaz and Alaka’i and they played well.”

Kurt Nusterer, who is from Indiana, put down UH’s final point of the match with his third kill in four swings as Hawaii won in its first-ever match played in Fort Wayne, Ind.

Hawaii hit .355 and had six aces with 17 service errors.

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Purdue Fort Wayne doubled up Hawaii in blocks 8-4, with six coming in the first set.

The Mastadons (4-2) hit .393 in the first set but ended at .157 for the match.

“It always comes down to when we can control what we are doing,” Chakas said. “(When) we’re the ones controlling the rhythm of the game, we’re the ones implementing our game and our rhythm, and when we realize that and make less errors, put the ball in play … we end up being better than anyone.”

Eleu Choy added nine digs for Hawaii, which raised its hitting percentage more than 200 points after hitting .115 in the opening set.

Graduate transfer setter Kevin Kauling, who was injured in warmups just before the season opener, entered the match late in the fourth set and had three assists and an ace.

“He’s been playing great at practice — he really has — and that’s something that we’ve toyed with a little to go into a double sub and get both of them out there on the floor,” Wade said. “Good to have him out there and it’s been great to have him back in practice.”

The Mastadons took advantage of eight UH hitting errors to take the first set, with Axel Melendez and Mark Frazier leading the way with four kills apiece.

The set was tied at 21-21 when a Bryce Walker kill put Purdue Fort Wayne in the lead for good.

Two straight hitting errors gave the Mastadons three match points. Hawaii got one point back on the Mastadons’ eighth service error in the set, but Louis Sakanoko was solo blocked by Jon Diedrich to end the set.

The Rainbow Warriors changed up their lineup to open the second set, with senior Todd in at opposite and Galloway returning for the first time in three weeks at outside hitter.

Todd put down five kills in as many attempts and Keoni Thiim subbed into the set with UH ahead 19-12 and served the next five points with an ace to double up the Mastadons.

Purdue Fort Wayne’s 13th service error ended the set to tie the match at one set apiece.

UH scored seven of the final 11 points in the third set to pull away and dominated in the final set with four of its six aces.

“It was nice to see that we were able to come back as fast as we did,” senior middle Guilherme Voss said. “Sometimes we are, as a team, a little slow to react to sets and stuff, so it was nice to see how fast we were able to switch up on the situation.”

Frazer finished with a match-high 14 kills and two aces to lead the Mastadons.

The two teams will play again today at 2 p.m.

NO. 4 HAWAII DEF.

PURDUE FORT WAYNE

22-25, 25-13, 25-21, 25-14

RAINBOW WARRIORS (4-1)

S K E ATT PCT D BA PTS

Galloway 4 9 2 17 .412 7 0 9.0

Choy 4 1 0 1 1.000 9 0 1.0

Voss 4 3 3 9 .000 0 2 4.0

Chakas 4 12 4 28 .286 4 1 13.5

Nusterer 4 3 1 4 .500 0 1 4.5

Rosenthal 4 2 0 3 .667 10 1 3.5

Todd 3 12 0 18 .667 5 1 14.5

Thiim 3 2 1 5 .200 4 0 3.0

Sakanoko 3 3 3 8 .000 2 0 3.0

Kauling 1 0 0 0 .000 1 0 1.0

Match 4 47 14 93 .355 42 6 57.0

Mastodons (4-2)

S K E ATT PCT D BA PTS

Hernandez 4 0 0 0 .000 6 0 0.0

Diedrich 4 8 4 26 .154 4 1 9.5

Walker 4 5 0 12 .417 2 4 7.0

Meld. Watts 4 7 5 22 .091 3 2 9.0

Frazier 4 14 6 42 .190 2 0 16.0

Polomac 4 1 0 4 .250 4 2 3.0

Lyons 3 1 3 4 -.500 0 1 1.5

Muir 2 0 0 1 .000 0 0 0.0

Fosdick 2 1 1 4 .000 2 0 1.0

Papaleo Jr. 1 0 0 0 .000 1 0 0.0

TEAM 4 0 0 0 .000 0 0 0.0

Match 4 37 19 115 .157 24 10 47.0

Service aces — Hawaii 6 (Chakas, Kauling, Nusterer, Rosenthal, Thiim, Todd). Purdue Fort Wayne 2 (Frazier 2). Service errors — Hawaii 17 (Chakas 4, Sakanoko 4, Galloway 3, Rosenthal 2, Kauling, Nusterer, Thiim, Voss). Purdue Fort Wayne 22 (Frazier 6, Polomac 5, Walker 4, Diedrich 3, Lyons 2, Fosdick, Melendez Watts). Assists — Hawaii 44 (Rosenthal 33, Chakas 4, Kauling 3, Galloway 2, Choy, Sakanoko). Purdue Fort Wayne 31 (Polomac 28, Diedrich, Frazier, Hernandez). Block solos — Hawaii 1 (Todd). Purdue Fort Wayne 3 (Diedrich, Melendez Watts, Polomac). Ball handling errors — Hawaii none. Purdue Fort Wayne 1 (Walker). Reception errors — Hawaii 2 (Chakas, Choy). Purdue Fort Wayne 6 (Frazier 2, Hernandez 2, Diedrich, Muir). T—NA. A—897. Officials— Michael O’Connor, Beverly Rea, Michael Alejado, John Rodewald.

There’s a mountain on O‘ahu named for the Greek myth of Tantalus, for whom satisfaction was always just out of reach. The road up is winding, filled with switchbacks, hanging vines, and vistas where, on mild nights, couples linger in cars against the backdrop of Honolulu’s city lights.

Hidden amid wild avocado trees and the heart-shaped leaves of houseplants is a long driveway leading to a crystallized snapshot in time: the Liljestrand House, designed by architect Vladimir Ossipoff in 1948 and built for Betty and Howard Liljestrand in 1952 for $40,000 at the time.

Credited with adapting midcentury modern for the tropics, Ossipoff designed homes and buildings in Hawai‘i with certain shared features: Japanese carpentry and expertise, the strategic use of trade winds for cooling (he abhorred air conditioning), and the merging of outside and inside space.

This style, now known as Hawaiian Modern, is on display in the Liljestrand House, one of O‘ahu’s many historic homes — and one of the few that is open to visitors.

Others include the royal residences (Iolani Palace and Queen Emma Summer Palace); Hawaiian Mission Houses (such as Hawai‘i’s oldest Western-style house, built in 1821); Hawai‘i’s Plantation Village in Waipahu, which includes restored sugar plantation buildings; and Shangri-la, an ode to Islamic art and culture built by tobacco heiress Doris Duke in the 1930s.

The oldest hale — a traditional Native Hawaiian thatched house — is enshrined at the Bishop Museum, where it was built on site in 1902.

While these historic homes range in style and grandeur, each adds something to O‘ahu’s character.

The structures are attuned to their natural environment and add to the state’s sense of place, Kiersten Faulkner, executive director of Historic Hawai‘i Foundation says. “In Hawaii, of course, that’s all rooted in Native Hawaiian culture, local building materials.”

Builders often looked to the past for inspiration, she says. That includes using traditional features like pili grass thatching and rock walls made from local volcanic stone.

After Western contact, the architecture evolved to incorporate joinery, with techniques that came out of shipbuilding, Faulkner says, and skilled carpenters from Japan popularized pocket doors and single-wall construction. Missionaries brought whitewashing and fenced gardens; sugarcane and pineapple plantations popularized arts-and-crafts style bungalows, where workers lived.

“Hawai‘i starts to be this place where all of these traditions come together,” Faulkner says. “It really did form a unique style. Much of it is oriented to the trade winds and to take advantage of natural ventilation … to be light on the land, really.”

Hawai‘i is hard on preservationists. Between heat, wood rot, fire risk and termites, the islands cultivate the idea of impermanence. But the greatest threat is development, Faulkner says.

“Hawai‘i has exceptionally high land value and so there’s often pressure to redevelop — anything — to a more intense commercial use,” she says. “It takes a lot of commitment to say we’re going to keep something that’s important to us, even in the face of that kind of pressure.”

Remarkably little of Hawai‘i’s 20th-century architecture has been preserved, especially in urban areas, says William Chapman, dean of the school of architecture at the University of Hawai‘i at Manoa.

The mid-20th century was a particularly harsh period for historic buildings in Honolulu, he says: “We lost a lot.” What’s left is “probably two handfuls of buildings, dating back in time to the pre-territorial period, back to the 19th century.”

Developers use neglect as an excuse to tear down buildings, Chapman says.

“Old-timers love to talk about the house being held together because the termites hold hands, right? I get sick of that,” Chapman said.

Manoa Heritage Center, created in 1996 by Sam and Mary Cooke, hopes to survive by making the transition from historic home to house museum.

Built in 1911 by architects Walter Emory and Marshall Webb in a half-timbered style that harks back to Tudor England, the home has a basalt rock foundation. The property also has an educational center, several gardens, and the last extant agricultural heiau in the area.

The heiau, a stone platform and traditional place of worship, sat in “benign neglect” for over 100 years, says Jenny Leung, the center’s cultural site manager. Stones fell into weeds. Rubber trees and night-blooming cereus grew in the cracks. Center staff worked with the Hawai‘i State Historic Preservation office on an archeological survey before removing foliage and restacking the stones.

Now, the heiau and gardens are open to visitors, more than half of whom are local schoolchildren, says Leung.

In three to five years, the center hopes to open the doors of the historic home itself to visitors, says Lisa Solomine, the executive director.

“It’s like building a museum from scratch,” she says. The closets still contain shopping boxes and old shoes, says Leung.

Community members across the state and beyond have offered help, Solomine says.

“Everyone who sets foot at the site, it’s almost like they sigh a breath of relief, and they say, ‘Oh, my gosh, it’s so peaceful and calm here.’”

At the Liljestrand House, people likewise come, fall in love, and want to help, says Kristi Cardozo, executive director. A donor sourced fabric to recover the midcentury sofas; a builder donated lumber to rebuild the deck, she says.

To reach the house, visitors drive up the dark, narrow mountain road hemmed in on both sides by foliage, before arriving, slightly carsick, slightly confused, at the low-slung residence with a modest roofline.

“The house slips out at you,” Cardozo says. “You come to the door and it’s dark, and you can’t see it.”

The entrance is constrained and understated, with a wall directly in front of the visitor. Moving through to the living room, the house suddenly opens up with wall-to-wall glass and views from Diamond Head to the ships of Honolulu Harbor and the sloping Waianae Mountains.

On Tantalus, satisfaction at last.

Hawaii’s winningest women’s water polo coach began her final season accomplishing a feat never achieved in the program’s 26 years.

Maureen Cole’s 205th victory in her 13 years as head coach was Hawaii’s first in 37 meetings against Stanford. The Rainbow Wahine shocked the two-time defending national champion and No. 1-ranked Cardinal 9-7 in overtime on Saturday to open the season 2-0.

Hawaii jumped to No. 4 in the national rankings ahead of tonight’s home opener against No. 9 Princeton.

UH also plays Azusa Pacific and No. 5 Fresno State on Saturday. By Thursday, Cole had already moved ahead in preparing for this week’s matches, but she admitted it’s a good sign in a season she feels is wide open.

“I think just the monkey off the back in terms of we go into every game thinking and believing we can play with anyone, but it’s another thing to actually do it,” Cole said. “So to (beat Stanford) for the first time is definitely a special thing. It builds confidence going into whoever we play in the future.”

Cole, who announced in November that this would be her last season, has guided the program to four NCAA Tournament appearances, the last coming in 2021.

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Hawaii is coming off a 21-6 campaign in which it finished second in the Big West regular season.

Sophomore center Bia Mantellato Dias, who was one of seven players selected to the All-Big West Preseason Coaches Team, was named the conference Player of the Week on Wednesday. She combined for six goals and two assists in wins over the Cardinal and Michigan.

“I love this group. It’s a really fun group. They’re very coachable,” Cole said. “We’ve got a good mix of youth and veterans, so I think we’re going to get a lot better. I think we have a lot of potential. This year is an interesting year because it’s the Olympic year.”

Every year Olympics are held, collegiate players who play for their national teams sit out the college season to prepare for the Olympics.

Hawaii is missing Camille Radosavljevic, who would have been a junior defender but is instead playing in her home country of France.

“Everyone is kind of missing a few pieces, so it just makes it a really exciting year in our sport,” Cole said.

Hawaii’s last win in the NCAA Tournament was in 2015 and UH has never finished higher than fourth.

The three games in the next two days are Hawaii’s only home matches until March 16, when it hosts new No. 1 Southern California. Hawaii is 3-47 all-time against the Trojans.

Local Event

Feb2

Diamond Head Theatre presents The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940

Friday, 7:30 pmHonolulu, HI

Saturday, March 23

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Mar23

Senior & Health Fair at Ka Makana Ali'i

Saturday, 11:00 amHonolulu, HI

Saturday, April 6

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Home Improvement, Landscaping & Gardening Fair at Ka Makana Ali'i

Saturday, 11:00 amHonolulu, HI

Saturday, May 4

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March for Babies

Saturday, 7:00 amHonolulu, HI

Saturday, June 22

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Jun22

Career Fair at Pearlridge Center

Saturday, 10:00 amHonolulu, HI

Sunday, June 23

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Career Fair at Pearlridge Center

Sunday, 10:00 amHonolulu, HI

Saturday, August 10

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Health Fair at Pearlridge Center

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Sunday, August 11

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Health Fair at Pearlridge Center

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Friday, September 20

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Signature Chefs Feeding Motherhood

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Saturday, October 12

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Senior Lifestyle Fair at Pearlridge Center.

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Sunday, October 13

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Thursday, November 14

This February, neighborhoods all throughout the island of O‘ahu are ringing in the Lunar New Year in style.

In 2024, the Lunar New Year falls on Saturday, Feb. 10. Leading up to that day and throughout February, here are all the ways you can celebrate and welcome the Year of the Dragon.

Celebrate the Year of the Dragon at Kahala Mall

Sunday, Jan. 28, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Sunday, Feb. 4, 10 am. to 12:30 p.m.

Celebrate the Lunar New Year at Kahala Mall with a visit from Miss Chinatown, a martial arts demonstration, lion dance performance, a pole jumping exhibition and a chance to “feed” the lions. On Feb. 4, receive traditional hand-drawn Chinese New Year blessings created by calligrapher Ina Chang, while supplies last.

Kahala Mall, Center Court, 4211 Wai‘alae Ave., kahalamallcenter.com, @kahalamall

SEE ALSO: How to Celebrate Chinese New Year in Hawai‘i

Chinatown Festival & Lunar New Year Parade

Saturday, Feb. 3, 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Enjoy lion dances, martial arts demonstrations, food and craft vendors, keiki make-and-take craft activities, live entertainment, bounce houses and a Lunar New Year parade. Food vendors this year include Aloha Donut, Belly Rub Kitchen, Doraku, Honolulu Burger Company, Fig & Ginger, Honolulu Rose Cake Shop and many more.

The parade will begin at 4:30 p.m. on the Hawai‘i State Capitol lawn with participants dressed up in their best Lunar New Year outfits. If you’re biking there, the Hawai‘i Bicycling League will be providing free bike valet service and VIP parking for front-row access to experience the event. They’ll even watch your bike for you while you enjoy the festival, so no need to bring locks.

Beretania St., ‘A‘ala Park, Maunakea St. to ‘A‘ala St., parade route from Hawai‘i State Capitol to River St,. chinatown808.com, @chinatown808hi

SEE ALSO: 40 Amazing Things to Do

Town Center of Mililani

Saturday, Feb. 3, 4:30 to 7 p.m.

Feed the Chinese lion, receive a free keiki dragon plush toy, make paper dragon puppets and watch a martial arts demonstration. Miss Chinatown Hawai‘i Court members will make an appearance.

Town Center of Mililani, 95-1249 Meheula Pkwy, Mililani, towncenterofmililani.com, @townctrmililani

Lunar New Year at the Royal Hawaiian Center

Saturday, Feb. 3, through Sunday, Feb. 18

Chinese New Year festivities will take place over two weeks at the Royal Hawaiian Center with cultural activities and a special gift with mall purchase. Catch the lion dance performance on Saturday, Feb. 10, at 5 p.m. and the acrobatic lion dance on Sunday, Feb. 18, at 6 p.m. See Chinese calligraphy demonstrations on Saturday, Feb. 3, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Sunday, Feb. 11, from 2 to 5 p.m. During these two weeks, shoppers who spend a minimum of $200 at participating stores may receive a special red envelope from Helumoa Hale Guest Services—prizes range from gift cards to tote bags.

Royal Hawaiian Center, 2201 Kal?kaua Ave., royalhawaiiancenter.com, @royalhwnctr

Photo: Courtesy of the Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club

Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club’s Chinese New Year Celebration

February 8, 9 and 10, 7:30 p.m.

The Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club will celebrate the new year with a celebration over three days featuring A Gee Yung Dragon & Lion Dance. See the lion dance parade through the hotel. The best view will be in Mahina & Sun’s, where you can dine on a special menu including fried rice, roast pork, sweet and sour shrimp and almond cookies.

Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club, 412 Lewers St., surfjack.com, @thesurfjack

Photo: Courtesy of Ala Moana Center

Ala Moana Center

Friday, Feb. 9, through Monday, Feb. 19

Shop at Ala Moana for good fortune and usher in the Year of the Dragon at a wishing wall display where you can write and leave messages. On Saturday, Feb. 17, and Sunday, Feb. 18, the mall will host Chinese calligraphy demonstrations, lion dancing and traditional drumming. Throughout the month of February, retailers will offer exclusive Lunar New Year products. There will also be gifts with purchases between $250 to $1,000, including limited-edition shopping totes and gift cards.

Ala Moana Center, 1450 Ala Moana Boulevard, alamoanacenter.com, @alamoancenter

Photo: Hawai‘i Children’s Discovery Center

Chinese New Year Lion Dance

Saturday, Feb. 10, 10:30 a.m.

Celebrate the Year of the Dragon with a child-friendly lion dance performed by the Kuo Min Tang Physical Culture Association, then try out New Year’s crafts and games in the center’s Your Rainbow World gallery.

Hawai‘i Children’s Discovery Center, 111 Ohe St., discoverycenterhawaii.org, @hawaiichildrensdiscoverycenter

SEE ALSO: Family Night Out: 8 Things to Do on O‘ahu

Windward Mall

Saturday, Feb. 10, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Sunday, Feb. 11, 10 a.m. to noon

Lunar New Year kicks off with a lion dance performance in Center Court and master Chinese calligraphy artist Ina Chang will write good luck fortunes for shoppers on Sunday.

Windward Mall, 46-056 Kamehameha Hwy., windwardmall.com, @windwardmall

Photo: Courtesy of Ward Village

Ward Village

Saturday, Feb. 10, to Saturday, Feb. 17

From Saturday, Feb. 10, to Wednesday, Feb. 14, Ward Centre and South Shore Market will be decked out with lucky lion displays and festive red lanterns for photo ops. From noon on Saturday, Feb. 17, lion dance performances will start at South Shore Market courtyard and continue to perform blessings throughout the neighborhood. Visit retailers and eateries to receive complimentary red envelopes with good luck wishes, while supplies last. Chinese calligraphy artist Ina Chang will be onsite at South Shore Market from 1 to 4 p.m.

Ward Village, 1240 Ala Moana Blvd. #200, wardvillage.com, @wardvillage

International Market Place

Saturday, Feb. 10, to Saturday, Feb. 24

On Saturday, Feb. 10, lion dancing will take place from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and Chinese calligraphy from 1 to 3 p.m. On Saturday, Feb. 10 and 17, enjoy complimentary stargazing on the Grand Lanai. From Feb. 10 to 24, guests who spend $150 in same-day receipts at International Market Place can receive a special Year of the Dragon cookie box from the Honolulu Cookie Company.

International Market Place, 2330 Kal?kaua Ave., shopinternationalmarketplace.com, @intlmktplace

Prince Waik?k?

Tuesday, Feb. 13, 5 p.m.

Gee Yung Martial Arts and Lion Dance Sports Association will perform a lion dance in the lobby of Prince Waik?k? and on the third floor at 100 Sails Restaurant & Bar.

Prince Waik?k?, 100 Holomoana St., princewaikiki.com, @princewaikiki

Waik?k? Beach Walk

Saturday, Feb. 17, 10 a.m. to 7:30 a.m.

Watch lion dances, a firecracker ceremony and an impressive pole jumping demonstration. The Sing Yung Dragon and Lion Dance Association will visit different Outrigger resort properties, including Waik?k? Beach Walk stores and restaurants, throughout the day.

Waik?k? Beach Walk, 227 Lewers St., waikikibeachwalk.com, @waikikibeachwalk

‘Ewa Town Center

Saturday, Feb. 17, 10 a.m. to noon

Merchants at ‘Ewa Town Center will celebrate Chinese New Year with a traditional Chinese lion dance and firecrackers by the Asian Lion Dance Team. Meet Chinese calligrapher Ina Chang and receive one free Chinese calligraphy, while supplies last.

‘Ewa Town Center, 91-1401 Fort Weaver Rd., ewatowncenter.com, @ewatowncenter

Waikele Premium Outlets

Sunday, Feb. 18, 11 a.m.

Enjoy a traditional lion dance performance and free giveaways (while supplies last) at Waikele Premium Outlets.

Waikele Premium Outlets, Center Stage, near American Eagle and Guess Factory, 94-790 Lumiaina Street, premiumoutlets.com/outlet/waikele, @waikelepo

Ka Makana Ali‘i

Sunday, Feb. 18, 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Watch Chinese folk dancing by the Phoenix Dance Chamber, check out a kung fu demonstration and marvel at Chinese calligraphy by Ina Chang.

Ka Makana Ali‘i, 91-5431 Kapolei Parkway, kamakanaalii.com, @kamakanaalii

– By Michelle Leong P’19, ’24

The stage is set, curtains about to rise, and the excitement builds on this year’s Variety Show, 24,000 Leagues Under the Sea. The underwater premiere showcases the remarkable talent and exuberance of the Senior Class of 2024. The audience will be treated to an original script, student-choreographed dances, and captivating music that accompanies the unfolding story of how aquatic luminaries solve the mystery of finding the missing “Star” fish celebrities.

The Variety Show serves as a unique platform, offering students and parents opportunities to lead, create, and collaborate within a supportive environment. For some seniors, this event marks their inaugural experience being on stage and performing. This year’s show will have a “LIVE” finale, where our Senior Class will be on stage in Dillingham Theater for the last time to celebrate the culmination of all their hard work. One of my most anticipated moments is to see the joy radiating from the faces of the Seniors during this final performance on stage. It also marks the bittersweet realization their collective journey together as a class is nearing an end.

As with many Punahou parents, I volunteer to support my daughters (Alyssa ’19 and Julia ’24). I’ve found it’s in these moments of shared commitment that a deeper connection is established through meaningful involvement. Lasting friendships are also made as we have fun participating in these activities that serve a greater purpose.

It has truly been a privilege working alongside the entire Production Team, incredible parent committee chairs, tireless parent volunteers, and remarkable costume designers. Collectively, they all make magic happen in the costume shop. Thank you to everyone for your generous gift of time, enthusiasm, and for making this Variety Show a memorable highlight for everyone involved. Here’s to a bright future for the Class of 2024!

++++++

Volunteers are still needed to help with costumes and accessories. No sewing skills are required. Volunteers are needed during rehearsal week beginning January 29 – February 1 from 3 – 6:30 p.m. The final show on February 3 also needs volunteers from 3:30 – 7:15 p.m. To volunteer, please email [email protected].

Carnival Variety Show: 24,000 Leagues Under the SeaFriday, February 2 and Saturday, February 3Dillingham HallTicket Price: $20

Jan. 29—A package of House bills would help property

owners buy insurance in Hawaii's most high-risk zones,

including those in Puna's riskiest lava zones and survivors of the Maui wildfires who also lost homes.

State Rep. Greggor Ilagan (D,

Hawaiian Paradise Park-Hawaiian Beaches-Leilani Estates) has introduced 10 bills ahead of one

insurer's plan to exit Hawaii's property insurance market this summer.

Most of the bills are specific to Puna's Lava Zones 1 and 2, where lava from Kilauea burst out of the ground in Leilani Estates in May 2018 before the eruption suddenly slowed, then stopped four months later. In between, 723 structures were wiped out, including an estimated 200 primary residences.

Universal Property &Casualty, which will pull out of the Hawaii market Aug. 31, had been issuing policies for Puna's Lava Zones 1 and 2, and some remaining insurance companies will honor existing policies, Ilagan said. But none are willing to underwrite new ones, he said.

Other companies around Hawaii continue to issue homeowners insurance, but Universal's pending departure means the pool of companies "is shrinking," Ilagan said. "It's definitely shrinking."

Puna residents filed 152 insurance claims from the Kilauea eruption totaling

$35 million, Ilagan said.

On Maui, property owners are expected to file $1.3 billion in insurance claims, he said.

Since the Aug. 8 wildfires, Gov. Josh Green has repeatedly warned property owners across the islands that insurance premiums are

going to rise.

State Insurance Commissioner Gordon Ito said the devastating Maui wildfires are "going to have a ripple effect across the whole state."

At the same time, Ito

said, insurance rates in Hawaii "cannot be excessive, inadequate or unfairly

discriminatory."

Property owners can help reduce their wildfire risks by creating buffer zones around their homes by trimming back brush and asking their insurers for discounts, Ito said.

Another bill, introduced by state Rep. Kyle Yamashita (D, Pukalani-Makawao-Ulupalakua), would create "the State Self-Insurance Against Property and Casualty Risks Special Fund to ... make it easier for the state to self-insure or utilize a

captive insurer to mitigate against property and casualty risks." HB 565 stalled in 2023 but remains alive.

The Legislature in 1991 created the nonprofit Hawaii Property Insurance Association to provide insurance for property owners in Puna's Lava Zones 1 and 2 who were unable to buy insurance otherwise, Ilagan said.

Private insurance companies who want to sell policies in Hawaii are required to join the HPIA to help cover the overall cost of claims.

House Bill 2054 would

require the HPIA "to offer additional types of homeowners insurance policy options that exclude lava coverage."

>> HB 2056 would create a working group to look at the possibility of a state-run

"reinsurance program to

ensure affordable coverage for property owners against catastrophic events."

Reinsurance programs help insurance companies cover losses and claims, but — especially with climate change — "there are only a few reinsurance companies left in the world, and the money is drying up," Ilagan said.

>> HB 2048 calls for

one HPIA member to be

appointed by the Senate president and one by the speaker of the House, rather than the state insurance commissioner.

>> HB 2049 would require the HPIA to be more transparent and post more information on its website.

Other bills are specific to Puna's Lava Zones 1 and 2 or to Hawaii island property owners in general:

>> HB 2053 would cap insurance premiums for residential properties "located in lava zones on Hawaii island based on premiums of comparable residential properties not located in lava zones on Hawaii

island."

>> HB 2052 would bar insurance companies from offering coverage, or refusing to renew a policy "solely on the basis that the applicant's or insured's real property is located in a lava-flow hazard zone."

In announcing the upcoming departure of Universal Property &Casualty, the state Department of Commerce and Consumers Affairs — which oversees the Hawaii Insurance Division — said property owners "may qualify for coverage from the Hawaii Property Insurance Association (hpiainfo.com)."

"The Hawai'i Insurance Division publishes a range of insurance guides and premium comparison sheets for public review online

at cca.hawaii.gov/ins/

resources," DCCA said. "Consumers can utilize these informational guides to review and compare sample premiums from insurance companies licensed in Hawai'i."

In a statement, Insurance Commissioner Ito said in 2023:

"We remind consumers

to be careful of potential scams. Many scammers prey on a consumer's fear. Before doing business with an insurance agent or company, consumers should

verify that they are an authorized and licensed insurance broker."

___

(c)2024 The Honolulu Star-Advertiser

Visit The Honolulu Star-Advertiser at www.staradvertiser.com

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The summit of Mauna Kea generally affords a clear-sky view, which is why it has served the astronomy campus there so well. But its future remains murky, with the latest legal challenge only the most recent cloud to descend over it.

The governance over the summit area, as lawmakers set up in 2022, is what’s at issue.

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs has gone to state Circuit Court asking to repeal the Mauna Kea Stewardship and Oversight Authority, established in Act 255, arguing that the state law is unconstitutional. OHA was designated in the state Constitution as the state agency managing the trust of resources for the benefit of Native Hawaiians.

This year’s newly convened Legislature should act to resolve at least part of the latest quandary, by amending the law to give OHA representation on the Mauna Kea authority board.

Act 255 sets out a transitional period extending to 2028, when the authority would replace the University of Hawaii in managing the summit area, including the site of the proposed Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT).

The lawsuit asserts that the law violates the Contract Clause of the U.S. Constitution. The establishment of the authority “exonerates the government agencies that have legal responsibilities in the management of Mauna Kea lands,” according to a “frequently asked questions” document (a link is at www.oha.org/aina/mauna-kea).

The complaint document lays out much of the history underlying the ongoing tensions over the management of ceded lands — the former Hawaiian monarchy lands that were ceded to the U.S. upon the overthrow of the kingdom. Ultimately, Native Hawaiians were identified among the beneficiaries of the ceded lands trust.

“Act 255 violates one of the most fundamental principles of trust law by creating a conflicted trustee beholden to both the ceded lands trust beneficiaries as well as to UH’s sublessees,” according to the complaint.

The suit cites the designation of a representative of the telescopes on the authority board as an example of a conflict of interest, because that representative can vote on actions that benefit them. This, though, is among the suit’s weaker assertions, because the authority should include a range of voices.

The better-founded criticism is that an OHA representative, specified in earlier versions of the 2022 bill, was eliminated from the board roster in the final version.

“OHA never received official word from the conference committee on why OHA was removed from the bill establishing the authority,” said Carmen “Hulu” Lindsey, chair of the agency’s board of trustees. “It’s thought that OHA was removed because we had opposed the bill.”

This leaves OHA “the only constitutionally mandated agency that represents the well-being of Native Hawaiians and recipient of ceded land revenues without a seat at the table to weigh in on the management and stewardship of the mauna,” according to a statement posted on the OHA website.

The Legislature can and should correct that flaw.

Still, the authority likely will find it difficult to navigate what is a turbulent political environment. This layer of added bureaucracy further complicates management of the mauna, a cultural and environmental treasure and a critically important scientific resource.

TMT, with great promise to fuel astronomers’ discoveries, offers an opportunity Hawaii should not abandon. And UH, which weathered a storm of criticism over its early mismanagement, had demonstrated its capacity to direct the land use in a more balanced way.

But if the new authority is to make any progress in now achieving that balance, this legal morass has to be cleared. Lawmakers can at least take that step.

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