June 26, 2026 ISSUE 200

Hoʻomau

Renew, Perpetuate, Persevere

Okinawan Heritage with Governor Ige

Former Governor David Ige and Former First Lady Dawn Amano-Ige visited 15 Craigside as guest speakers for the Introduction to Okinawan Culture class. Governor Ige made history as the first person of Okinawan descent elected governor of a U.S. state, serving as Hawaii's eighth governor from 2014 to 2022. He spoke of the honor of serving the people of Hawaii and the responsibility that comes with public service and community leadership. The couple also shared family traditions passed down through generations, along with the cultural heritage that connects them to the ancestors who first journeyed to the Hawaiian Islands. Now enjoying retirement, Governor Ige reflected on life after public office that, despite embracing this new chapter, he still misses being driven everywhere during his years in office.

Honoring Lives Through Art

Arcadia resident Ms. Elizabeth Kent received the Wearable Art Award sponsored by MaryAnne Long at the Hawaii Craftsmen Fiber Hawaii exhibition for her piece, The Mathematics of Mourning: Souls Lost to COVID and Motor Vehicle Crashes (2020-2022). Inspired by the Japanese tradition of senninbari, Ms. Kent spent three to four years creating the piece, tying 1,768 black knots to represent Hawaii residents lost to COVID-19 and 290 red knots to honor those lost in motor vehicle crashes. Made from a dyed vintage kimono lining and thread, the work honors each life lost and the loved ones left behind. Juried by fiber artist Marques Hanalei Marzan, the exhibition represents what Ms. Kent calls “the pinnacle” of achievement for a fiber artist.

Creative Blooms

Arcadia residents took part in a hands-on Lei Po’o (Haku) Workshop led by Native Hawaiian lei-maker Kuhi of Lei Po’o Slay by Kuhi, where they created their own floral head leis.

North Shore Adventures

15 Craigside residents enjoyed a North Shore outing, starting at the Sugar Mill and continuing to Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck for lunch before spending the afternoon enjoying Matsumoto Shave Ice and exploring Haleiwa.

Building Memories

Arcadia residents and Arcadia Adult Day Care clients each enjoyed their own special visits to Bishop Museum’s Aloha Bricks 26’: Stories of Hawaii exhibit. Featuring LEGO creations inspired by Hawaii’s iconic landmarks, native species, and legendary stories, the exhibit sparked curiosity and creativity. Highlights included the Middle School Mosaic Gallery, detailed models of local favorites, and interactive building stations where they could build, explore, and imagine together.

Blooming Support for AMIT

Arcadia residents shared their love of gardening through a plant sale featuring selections grown in the Hale Mea Kanu greenhouse. Proceeds benefited the Arcadia Memorial Irrevocable Trust (AMIT), which supports services that enhance quality of life at Arcadia’s Health Care Center.

Father’s Day Festivities

Father’s Day was celebrated with special arts and crafts at Hale Ola Kino by Arcadia, a fishing tournament at the 15 Craigside Health Care Center, and food and fun at the Arcadia Health Care Center.

“Summer invites us to slow down, soak in the sunshine, and savor life's simple joys – a shared meal, a good laugh, and the company of those we love. May this season fill your days with warmth and your heart with gratitude.”- Suzie Schulberg, President & CEO

Click here for full issue: Ho'omau 6.26.26