December 16, 2025 – A Kupuna Holiday Lunch to Remember
Waikiki Community Center was absolutely buzzing with holiday cheer on December 16, 2025, as thirty kupuna gathered for a festive feast whipped up by Hawaii Kai Lions “Chefs” Eric Kvick and Cynthia Chun. Before lunch even hit the tables, the kupuna were already in full celebration mode led by the Center’s Merle Okino O’Neill and Lion Frances Lum—playing charades with lightning?fast guesses and belting out Christmas carols like seasoned performers.
Then came the main event: two perfectly roasted turkeys, mountains of stuffing, a fresh green bean casserole loaded with mushrooms, baked sweet potatoes kissed with maple syrup, a green salad, and of course, rice (because it’s not a real local meal without it). Add cranberry sauce, warm rolls, and delicious apple pie supplied by Lion David Karlen, and you had a spread that could easily fill Santa’s generous belly. The food was so ono that many kupuna went back for seconds… and thirds… and still packed leftovers to take home. One kupuna emphasized that she had only 5 teeth, so she passed on the turkey, but had a triple helping of the moist stuffing.
But Lion Eric didn’t stop at cooking. He also crafted personalized ornaments for each kupuna, a gesture the Center staff called “a thoughtful additional touch” that genuinely delighted everyone who received one.
In the end, it wasn’t just the food that filled the room—it was the fellowship, laughter, and holiday spirit. Seeing our kupuna happy, healthy, vibrant, and leaving not a single leftover behind made the day truly special for us.
