A big Mahalo!

A BIG Mahalo to our Monetary donators supporting 2013 Reunion & Operational Expenses

Lanai Invitational Golf Club:


Mr. Bruce Matsuura, 
LIGT Co-Chair
Mr. Nelson Tamashiro, 
LIGT C-Chair
Jacob Hueu, 
LACA Putting Contest Chair
Elaine Perry
Lui Obado
Lea Nobui Suzuki
Lance Nobui
Rene Malaluan
Jeri Hirayama Iba
Earl Rodrigues
Lloyd Funada
Sonny Dalde
Ralph & Maria Ruidas
Ted Nobui
Suzanne Damian
Ben Dalde
Meryl Suwa
Joe Ricamara “Fox”
Nan (Belez) Lantz

(I apologize if I missed your name, please send me an email or letter to be posted in the next newsletter, I did not have a notebook with me at the time you were handing me your contributions.)

Benita Remiticado Ruidas

By Bobbie Ruidas Mizono

Mom was an inspiration. She didn’t graduate from High School because of taking care of her younger siblings. When she married my dad, things changed.

She taught herself to type with dad teaching her the fundamentals on our old typewriter. He taught her to speak Filipino so they can “talk secret”. She did crossword puzzles & dad would take over and finish it, what a team.

I remember when Mom wanted to learn to play the piano. She would study piano books we had and slowly self-taught herself to read notes. She didn’t play well but she was happy.

Mom was an active member with U.E. (University Extension) where she learned a few tricks on cooking and sewing. Later in life she did a lot of crocheting ~ beanie hats, I.D. tags, booties, leis, & scarves. She said it was her therapy and so was piano playing.

If you knew mom, she always had a smiley face and always kidding around. She knew lots of stories to tell. Her theory was, “you treat others like how you want to be treated”.
She will be missed.

BACK TO OUR ROOTS

By Rosita Hueu

04 - Benita Ruidas picThe recent passing of Benita Remiticado Ruidas, age 90 and former Lana’i resident Mitsuye Oga, age 103, gives us a moment to reflect on Lanai’s families of the past. Benita and Mitsuye were pioneers in the settlement of Lana’i in the 1930’s. With their spouses and through personal sacrifices they nurtured their children to adhere to a strong work ethic and commitment to education that enabled them to be successful in their chosen professions. LACA, the Lana’i community, and society, have been fortunate recipients of the Ruidas and Oga legacies.

THE OZOA’S CROSSROADS IN LIFE

By Rosita Viduya Hueu

The marriage vows pledged sixty years ago, “For better or for worse until death do us part,” between Eleanor “Sponge” Bayron and Vicente “Intang” Ozoa came to fruition on January 18, 2014 when Vicente passed away on Lana’i. While we are saddened by the loss of Vicente, at the same time we are happy that Eleanor is with us and will continue as a living treasure…enriching our lives with her firsthand knowledge of changes and events impacting Lana’i for the past 60 years.

Vicente and Eleanor embody the spirit of “homegrown” Lanaians who through the decades have rendered invaluable service to their alma mater and community. In high school, as Pinelad (class of ’51) and Pinelass (class of ’53) both participated in sports and community-related class activities. And like many of their classmates, Vicente and Eleanor spent their summers toiling in the pineapple fields.

After graduation, Vicente served in the United States Marine Corps…”Semper Fi.” Following that, he worked for Hawaiian Airlines, spanning a career of 32 years. Subsequently, Eleanor retired after 30 years as an employee of Pine Isle Market. Vicente’s many years at Hawaiian Airlines enabled them to travel extensively to different states on the mainland. And yes, their favorite destination was without question, Las Vegas! During all of this time and up to the present, Vicente, Eleanor and their Ohana resided in the same house in a place fondly known as “Korean Camp.”

We are truly grateful to Vicente and Eleanor for their efforts to make Lana’i community a better place to live. Through their strong religious faith, commitment and loyalty to friends, they have imbued their children with a sense of values to help develop productive and meaningful lives. We will miss Vicente’s caring and personable demeanor. Vicente is survived by Eleanor, three sons: Alan (Kailua), Eric (Washington) and Duane (Lana’i). He is predeceased by daughter Adrienne.

Aloha Oe, Vicente. Rest in peace.

In Loving Memory 
of Deceased Members

We extend our heartfelt condolences for the loss of your loved one, friend or classmate.

  • Felix Dugay ’48
  • 
David Funada ’52
  • 
Connie Dahang Frazier ’65
  • Jerry Engbino Janowski
  • iMitsuye Oga
  • Vicente Ozoa ’51
  • Gary Alan Pagampao ’80
  • 
Pacita Maria Ramiscal ’45
  • Benita Remiticado Ruidas
  • 
Tamotsu Takahama ’44
  • 
George Yokoyama ’53

In Memory of My Sister EDITH ETSUKO GIKIU

By Hazel Butterfiled – Class of ‘55

The loss of my sister, my very best friend has impacted me the most this past week. For many years, I arrived at Frank and Edith’s home in Gardena at least three days before New Years’ day to help Edith with the preparation of the shogatsu feast for the family.

It was a wonderful time together where she taught me how to prepare the different dishes such as the niku-maki tamago (marinated meat rolled over hard boiled eggs), nishime (oden), the ozone soup for good luck, futomaki sushi, tempura, and her most delicious potato macaroni salad. Edith’s wonderful desserts were already prepared before I arrived. (All of my children have their Aunty Edith’s recipes and think of her every time they bake.)

When I am alone, I can sense her presence to make sure I did everything right. Even in her absence, I felt I spent New Year’s Eve with Edith with a toast of a glass of wine!
Edith was my Ne-san (big sister) as my Dad said I must call her when we were little. I remember my Dad saying that I was never to complain if she should spank me because the big sister is always right!

I remember being glad that I was too young to work in the pineapple fields when Edith was old enough to go hanahana. I always felt it must have been hard on her because she seemed so fragile.

When my Dad was laid off from work in Lanai, we moved to a farm in Waimanalo, O’ahu. Rather than live a harsh life on the farm, Edith chose to live with a family in Kaneohe getting paid $5.00 per week. She attended Castle High School in Kaneohe. Later, when I started at Castle High School, it was Edith’s senior year and she was a popular figure which helped me (I was so shy) in being accepted. Later after graduation, Edith and her girl friend decided to move to the mainland to find better work. They moved to San Francisco, however, after a few months, with prejudice still strong against the Japanese, they decided to move to Los Angeles. There they found good jobs and less social prejudices. Our family decided to follow Edith’s decision and we moved to Los Angeles soon after.

In retrospect Edith’s decision was good. Because otherwise she would not have met her future husband, Frank and raise her family. It was good luck for me too – as I also met my husband and raised our family. I guess it was fate!

Edith was working at the Sears Roebuck office when she met Frank who was the Art Director there. They were married for the next 57 years!

The best times were with our family. I lived in Harbor City just 15 minutes away from my sister and close enough to Dad and Mom. It was easy for our parents to drive down to see me and the children. Also, it was fun to go to Edith’s and together make our weekly grocery list and go shopping. We spent only $20 to $25 a week for groceries with coupons in hand. And we were the last ones in our generation to enjoy listening to Japanese music.

It was exactly a year ago that I flew to L.A. to see Edith for another New Year’s Day celebration. Unfortunately, I ended up at in the emergency room with terrible pains which resulted in my having a gall bladder operation. What a way to celebrate the New Year and without my sister!!! However, I am eternally grateful to Edith’s children Shawn and Debi, and her grandsons, Joshua and Raymond for sacrificing their New Year’s Eve to be with me.
I count my blessings that I had 75 years of cherished moments with my sister, Edith and to be with her till the end. She was also so blessed to have such a saint in her husband, Frank who lovingly cared for her.

Thank you all for loving her and remembering her. Rest in peace dear Edith.

Old Bowling Alley Building

By Myrtle Dalde Reponte

In the September 2013 edition, Lanai Today monthly news posted requests for feedback on what to do with the old bowling alley building in Dole Park on Lanai. I don’t believe that any plans have been firmed up yet, so it’s not too late to express your opinion.

I personally want to see the building remain in its present location, renovated and refurbished as close as possible to the bowling alley, pool hall, and snack bar during Dalde’s Enterprises operation. Also to consider additional lanes and automated pin-setting, of course. An added wing could even include a community center as it is used today displaying pictures of the plantation rolling fields of golden pineapples which we were all so proud of.

Not because I’m a Dalde girl, but more importantly, because the bowling alley was Lanai’s only source of daily recreation and gathering place to play, have a snack, meeting & greeting the seasonals, and just talk story. It was during plantation days when Lanai was as beautiful as it will ever be. It is so nostalgic of our good ol’ Lanai days during our era of golden pines.

Today’s population on Lanai consists of newcomers and the younger generation who never experienced any of this. They, no doubt, out-number the citizens of our era who still live there. Therefore, if we don’t offer our feedback and attempt to preserve memories, the old days nostalgic scene may be gone forever. LACA members would agree, I’m sure, as we realize the younger set is not jumping into LACA activities with enthusiasm to continue leadership for continuity of its purpose and objective.

Granted, Mr. Ellison is doing great things for Lanai and its residents and he is making changes quickly for the betterment of the island and tourism.  He is open to Lanaians’ comments and opinions during this major overhaul.  This is where we have a voice, so let’s help him close the generational gap by maintaining Lanai’s only history before it drifts away with what was once, The World’s Premier Pineapple Plantation.

I encourage LACA members to email their opinions to Lynn McCrory: lmccrory@pulamalanai.com. Please include specific suggestions of what they would like to see happen with the old bowling alley building. This is our prime opportunity to be heard so let’s speak up today.

Aloha and Mahalo!


The Lana’i Alumni & Community Association (LACA) reserves the right to edit all content submitted for publication to the Lana’i Connection website or hardcopy newsletter.  LACA is not responsible for and does not specifically endorse opinions stated on linked websites.  As a courtesy, we would appreciate that organizations requesting a link on our website reciprocate with a link back to the Lana’i Connection at 
https://www.lanaiconnection.com/blog.

Opinions stated in articles published on the Lana’i Connection website or the hardcopy newsletter are not necessarily those held by LACA, its board members, or general membership.

Gabriel Ohana

Four generations of the Gabriel Ohana send you their best wishes for the New Year! Benjamin Gabriel is a 1948 alumnus. His wife Jane graduated from Waipahu High School in 1953 and has participated in LACA events as an entertainer.

In by-gone years, Benny’s parents were proprietors of the Gabriel Tailor and Laundry Shop, the site presently occupied by Blue Ginger Restaurant.

LACA/Vegas Reunion 2013

The 18th Annual LACA Reunion was held at the Main Street Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, October 11-12, 2013. Chairperson for the event was Donna Reyes Ching, with her mother, Gloria, keeping her focused, organized and offering moral support.

Almost everyone arrived by plane or car on Thursday and, after checking in at their respective hotels, roamed around seeing familiar faces, enjoying the casinos and relaxing in the Lana’i/Las Vegas way.

A LACA Golf Tournament, organized by Bill Ruidas & Sharon Reyes, kicked off the activities early Friday morning at the historic Las Vegas Golf Club. Participants arrived in the early morning and had a chance to stretch, mingle and get rid of the travel rust as they teed off on an enjoyable course. Competition was keen, but relaxed, and everyone had a fun day in the sun.

The next activity was a fun filled Slot Machine Tournament hosted by Lea Nobui Suzuki & Jojo Endrina Timbreza at the Main Street Casino. Winners were Rene Malaluan, Lea Nobui Suzuki, and, believe it or not, an unintended mystery guest. The unknown guest was not part of the LACA reunion group and, quite innocently, played with us thinking he was with his own reunion group. He was a bit surprised and probably embarrassed because he didn’t return to claim his winnings. Lea and Rene (and the mystery player) generously donated their winnings to LACA.

The final “official” activity was the LACA Reunion Luncheon at the Main Street Social Hall, which was MC’d by Alfred Tipon, Jr. (son of Irene Dalde). The luncheon reunion was full of laughter, reminiscing and a few tears of joy with everyone having a great time. Several special events and recognitions kept Freddy busy coordinating the activities.

Joice Dalde Alapag & her Chicken Hekka Band, which included Glenn Alapag, Ben Dalde, Jane Garalde Primicias, and Jay Reponte, provided entertainment while everyone mingled, talked, laughed and ate.

We honored our Kupuna with Kukui Nut Leis adorned with painted pineapple images. These were presented to Sue Obado, Suzanne Sanchez Kinkaid, Elaine Perry Dang, Donna Tanodra Willingham, Ted Perez and Henry Dulan. Norante Fernandez received a UH logo Kukui Nut lei in honor of the UH game against UNLV held that same day.

Bill Ruidas & Sharon Reyes presented the LACA Golf Tournament awards. Low net winners were Jim Cummings (1st), Freddy Tipon (2nd) and Garrett Malaluan (3rd). Par 3 closest-to-the pin winners were Bill Ruidas, Jim Cummings and Sharon Reyes. Sue Pascua Damian donated the first Perpetual Highest Score Award Trophy. Donna Ching, our Chairperson, graciously accepted the award and said she will gladly give it up next year to another “deserving” winner.

What a surprise when a birthday cake, baked by Rene Malaluan, was presented to the class of ’61, celebrating their 70th birthday. It was a tear jerking moment when they all sang “Lana’i”, written and made famous by their late classmate Al Lopaka. Happy Birthday Class of 1961!

Donna stepped to the podium to give a brief description of LACA’s functions and the challenges ahead, requesting volunteers and donations. While giving her update, she was pleasantly surprised by Elaine Perry and Lui Obado who provided a monetary donation to LACA and challenged others to do the same.

One of the highlights of the evening was when Sue Damian (Class ’52), presented the grand prize of a Hotel stay at the California Hotel & Casino to Linda Perez. The 2nd prize of a dinner for two at the Red Grill Restaurant went to Lloyd Funada.

A big “Mahalo!” goes out to Lanai Artist Mike Carroll who donated a copy of his “Ironwood” painting. Suzanne Obado was the lucky winner. Sherry Ramaila’s beautiful handmade Pineapple Quilt went to Joice Dalde Alapag. Myrtle Dalde Reponte’s generous copies of her pineapple paintings got sold out on our Fund Raising table.

Special recognitions to: Joy Maile Enfield (Class ’60) for her endless dedication and services to LACA/Vegas reunions & alma mater throughout the years. LACA thanks her for all she’s done for decades. We would also like to recognize Sue Pascua Damian for her total commitment, generous monetary contributions & active involvement. Sorely missed was Randy Piena, who didn’t make it to our reunion due to illness. Glenda Obado-Ito and Sharon Reyes presented speeches written by LACA’s “ghost writer” Rosita Hueu, sharing a memorable flashback to the past. All of you are sincerely appreciated!

The 2013 LACA Reunion would not have been a success without lots of support from everyone who attended, those already mentioned and the following Lanai Ohana: Henry Dulan and Lui Obado, Musicians; Sally Tabura Cadiente, Name Tags; Sonny & June Dalde, Program Design & Photos; Sue Obado, Favors; Al Lopez, Jr., Blessing; Patty Oshiro, Greeter; Marge Asato, Joy Maile Enfield and Glenda Obado-Ito, Logistics; and Jeff Whaley, Photographer.

Frank “Paco” Primicias thanks you for your interest in his Souvenir Video that will provide you with fond memories now and in the future. Thank you William Ito, Glenda Obado-Ito’s son, for sharing his photos.

Mahalo to all that participated in this 2013 LACA/Vegas Reunion! We sincerely hope you enjoyed this wonderful event. The 2014 LACA Reunion is set for September 27th to be held at the California Hotel & Casino Ohana Room, Luncheon at 12:00-4:00 pm. Anybody willing to help, PLEASE… you are most welcome!