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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Tis The Season

December 2023 PUBLISHER

Johnny Gillespie | Johnny.gillespie@citylifestyle.com Taylor Stutts | taylor.stutts@citylifestyle.com EDITOR IAL COOR DINATOR S

Dear Readers, The holidays are here and as the spirit of the season is among us, we often try to replicate what made the season feel so magical to us in our youth. The traditions we set for our own families often mirror some of what we experienced as a child. There can be a mix of emotions in this season. We can be excited to be with friends and family or missing someone close to us. We can be looking forward to rest and relaxation or grinding for the final quarter of the year to hit our goals. This month, we wanted to highlight the bittersweet passing of Loren Cunningham. A man who has done so much for this island and from this island has made an impact on every single nation on earth. His life embodied the hospitality and generosity of the Hawaiian culture. We hope you find inspiration for fresh vision as you read his story. Christmas is a time to look back, and we are remembering the State Championship win of our very own Konawaena football team last year. We also highlight an amazing movement of generosity from an unexpected source. Take a moment to enjoy our piece about how bikers are bringing Toys for Tots this Christmas. Finally, you will learn about my favorite pizza and calzone on the entire island. If you have not tried Bianellis you are missing out. Order some of their pizza and enjoy this issue. This Christmas, let’s remember those in our community who need assistance or who are alone. My hope for you this season is that you feel love and peace and that we all take care of each other, extending grace, empathy and love. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! TAY LO R S T U T T S , P U B L I S H E R @KONACOA STMAGA ZINE

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Proverbs 3:5-6 Kona Coast City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Kona Coast area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Kona Coast City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable,

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DECEMBER 2023

inside the issue The Holidays & Giving Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

14 Loren Cunningham

Lifestyle Letter

Business Monthly

Artist’s Palette LI FE + C U LT UR E

Local Limelight S PO RTS + R E C R E ATION

Culinary Creations LI FE + C U LTU R E

Must See LI FE + C U LT U R E

Our Town LI FE + C U LT U R E

Giving Back LI FE + C U LT U R E

Events

Celebrating a life that was given to others

22 Standing On The Shoulders Of Those That Came Before The historic victory of the Konawaena Football Team

36 Bikers Bringing Joy To Keiki

Toys for Keiki Run partners with King’s Kona and the Waimea Christmas Parade

42 Christmas in the Candlelight

Churches will be hosting Christmas services to bring our community closer this Holiday Season

O N T H E C OV E R

Coach Brad Uemoto celebrates with a Konawaena Football player.

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LOREN CUNNINGHAM Celebrating a life that was given to others

On October 6, 2023 at 88 years old, we said “a hui hou” to Loren Cunningham. This is the story of a remarkable man who flew 6 million miles, visited every nation on earth, founded one of the world’s largest Christian missionary movements and proudly called Kailua-Kona home. His life serves as a shining example of the impact that one life can have when it is given to others. The pivotal moment in Loren’s life presented itself when he was only 26 years old. A beloved, wealthy aunt invited him to join her prosperous business. The generous offer would have ensured a life full of luxuries and prominence. A difficult choice was before him: missionary or millionaire? With deep conviction, Loren followed his call to serve God. He pioneered a Christian missionary organization for young people called Youth With A Mission (YWAM). When Loren set out on this adventure, no one would have guessed that he would end up meeting with presidents, prime ministers and popes; co-found a global university, and impact over 5 million lives through the training, outreach and mercy programs of YWAM. We could write about Loren’s meetings with major world leaders, or describe the harrowing tales of dangerous border crossings,

but instead, we want to focus on the impact Loren made locally here in Hawai’i. Loren and his wife Darlene moved to the Big Island in 1974 with a dream to train young people to be missionaries. In those days this was unheard of, only seminary graduates were qualified. They first arrived in Hilo but set their sights on a dilapidated hotel in the heart of Kona called the Pacific Empress. Having been abandoned for 10 years, it was overgrown and occupied by squatters and drug addicts. Where others only saw a headache, Loren saw an opportunity and in 1977, Loren, Darlene and a group of YWAMers drove onto the property to make it home. In those days, as they whacked down the weeds and reclaimed the land, people joked that the acronym “YWAM” stood for “Youth With A Machete.” This group of volunteers slept in rooms with large holes in the floor, took showers in their bathing suits with a hose draped over a tree limb, and washed their dishes in a bathtub set on a table outside. Life was not comfortable but it was driven by purpose and a dedication to serve. In 1978, YWAM launched what would become the University of the Nations (UofN). Today, the campus is home to over 2,000 students a year and 600 full-time volunteer

ARTICLE BY JOHN-MARK DYER PHOTOGRAPHY BY YWAM ‘OHANA

A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | L IFE + CULTURE

CONTINUED >

D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/KO N AC OAST

UofN Kona

staff. Their schools and ministries impact communities overseas and here on the Big Island. Earlier this year, the campus hosted a First Responders fitness competition that paired high school students with local police, firefighters and paramedics. They host Hawaiian language classes, provide resources for single mothers and offer sustainable agriculture seminars. Loren held several master’s degrees in education. He knew the impact of investing in the next generation. When YWAM came to the Big Island, the first program they established was a preschool. Today, directed by his daughter Karen Cunningham, the University of the Nations Preschool remains one of the toprated preschools in the Hawaiian Islands. The belief that every gift could be used in a transformative way to impact society was a guiding principle for Loren. When his son David, a Konawaena graduate, decided to pursue filmmaking, Loren supported and encouraged him in his efforts to establish the film industry on the Big Island. The release of the recent feature film in Olelo Hawai’i, The Wind and the Reckoning, is one fruit of that effort. Loren honored the strengths and gifts embedded in every culture and ethnicity, and was especially bonded to the people and traditions of Polynesia. At a time when many traditional church leaders frowned on the use of cultural music and dances in church, he championed island culture. Loren helped islanders pioneer a Polynesian cultural arts ministry, travel the world and share the beauty of their culture. One may be tempted to think that a man with such a resume, who traveled so much and led so many people would have been prideful or aloof. As anyone who knew him can attest, Loren remained humble, good-natured and tenderhearted to his last days. He was a man of the highest integrity who embodied his deeply cherished Biblical convictions. Loren and Darlene were members of Central Kona Union Church (now called Lifewater Church) for over 46 years. He was faithful to attend whenever he was on the island. Loren was always a visionary. In January 2023, he was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer and the doctors only gave him 4–6 weeks to live. But he had one last vision to impart. For 10 miraculous months, Loren implored the worldwide YWAM family to take up the final dream that God planted in his heart. He wanted to see the Bible translated into every mother tongue language on earth so that everyone could know the loving God that so marked his life.

A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | L IFE + CULTURE

Loren & Darlene

UofN Kona

CONTINUED >

D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/KO N AC OAST

A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | L IFE + CULTURE

“His life provokes us to examine ourselves, to look for the needs of others in our community and become a servant to them.”

Jesus says in the Gospel of John, “There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” Loren took that verse to heart and left behind a global 'ohana who is doing their best to embody it as well. His life provokes us to examine ourselves, to look for the needs of others in our community and to become servants to them. He exemplified the best of what our Kona community can be. Loren is survived by his wife Darlene, his daughter Karen, his son David and wife Judy, and grandchildren Madison, Kenna and Liam. He is also survived and honored by a global family of tens of thousands of YWAMers who serve at 2,000 locations in 191 nations. Learn more at lorencunningham.com

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Standing On The Shoulders Of Those That Came Before The historic victory of the Konawaena Football Team

ARTICLE BY MATIAS ARREDONDO PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL LASQUERO (SCORINGLIVE)

It has been a year since the Wildcats claimed the Hawai’i High School Athletic Association Division I Football Championship, but we can not stop bragging about how this team brought the trophy to South Kona. The success of Konawaena High School, whether it is in athletics, academics, or social achievements, is a victory for the entire community. Winning championships like this one is the result of the hard work and dedication of many people. We want to take this opportunity to thank them for allowing us to believe that Christmas miracles do exist and for reminding us that teamwork is one way to make them happen. But to understand how this accomplishment took place, we need to go back a few years. In 2007, Aaron Nagata was the head coach and instilled the concept of tradition. He got pictures from past generations of football teams at Konawaena, framed and lined them up around the locker room. Suddenly, the alumni were not just names, they were heritage, history, and something

to be grateful for. This caused the players to understand they were privileged enough to stand on the shoulders of those who came before them. Two years later, Coach Cliff Walters brought new excitement to the game as he showcased the athleticism of the team and challenged the players to lift weights on their own time. That same year, Brad Uemoto began his coaching career with Konawaena Football as an assistant and in 2015, he was promoted to head coach. He received the torch from Coach Cliff Walters, who had just finished a 4-year term, in which the program had been turned around, and Konawaena had won 3 consecutive BIIF titles. “We were the runners-up in his last season, but the foundation of the program had been set, and we had a cupboard full of great talent,” says Coach Brad. In his new role, Coach Brad took the players and challenged them to improve their game. He ramped up the players' strength and conditioning program, raising expectations progressively at practice and making it tough. CONTINUED >

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | SPORTS + RE CRE ATI ON

D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/KO N AC OAST

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | SPORTS + RE CRE ATI ON

Coach Brad Uemoto and a Konawaena football player

“The product on the field was a direct reflection of the daily work put in,” Coach Brad shares. His goal was to capitalize on the physical and cultural make-up of the players who represented the community. This style of play required the football team to be physically more fit as an integral part of its success. Unfortunately, the weight room at Konawaena was a dilapidated storage room with equipment nobody used anymore. People like Coach Paul Chinnen did what they could to help, bringing a handful of boys down to the local gyms to work out after football practice, but more needed to be done. In 2018, Tiger Hill, from Respect the Corners, joined Coach Brad’s team and shared a dream of building a state-of-the-art weight room for Konawaena High School. Yet, it felt like just that. A dream. They needed $55K to build the type of facility that would help their students. Luckily, Shawn Suzuki, Konawaena’s Principal at that time, wrote a letter on their behalf to solicit private funding. The ball was rolling and eventually, the funds arrived. “Principal Suzuki was always the biggest supporter of our program. He would be seen on the sideline of every game. Although he wasn’t a Konawaena alumnus, the traditions and history of our school were ingrained in him. I believe that the players and coaches who have built Konawaena football are still important to who we are. When the leader of our school believes in us, it becomes easier for coaches to instill that same tradition in our team,” Coach Brad shares. By 2019, their dream came true, and the weight room went from having 3 players lifting weights to over 80 junior varsity and football players training together. In addition to scouting and skill-building, Coach Brad’s role in preparing the team for competition extended beyond the physical aspect. He worked hard to ensure that the team was ready, both mentally and emotionally. “Coach Brad and his team have always been committed to their focus on helping students succeed academically and build strong character. This championship is just another validation that the school's core beliefs, as well as the community's, are right and true. It proves that perseverance, working hard, and having a growth mindset are the keys to success,” shares Principal Suzuki. CONTINUED >

D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/KO N AC OAST

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | SPORTS + RE CRE ATI ON

“Coming home with the trophy was one of the most special moments in my life. It’ll always be something this group of coaches and players will cherish.” — Coach Brad When the 2022 championship finally came, the football team’s conditioning was on full display in their games. It combined a solid senior class and the football team’s experience in the state tournament. The senior class started as freshmen with over 30 players with evident talent. Coach Brad knew a state title was a possibility down the road and did not allow the group to fall short of expectations. The result? A deserved victory. “‘Aiea and Waipahu (High School) may have had some bigger, faster, and more athletically gifted athletes on their teams, but midway through the third quarter, while they were slowing down, we were still playing at first-quarter tempo. I share this with no disrespect to them, but rather in praise of our coaches, training, and players who have learned to overcome great obstacles,” shares Coach Paul Chinnen. This victory proved to the community that it can be done. With perseverance, no dream or obstacle is too big to overcome without trying. Since then, Konawaena has had more and more players attending

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college, something many of them had never considered before. “Coming home with the trophy was one of the most special moments in my life. It'll always be something this group of coaches and players will cherish. It will be something our community can always reflect on,” Coach Brad says. Sports draw people together, excite them, and cheer for a cause that makes them forget their everyday burdens. Even if someone gets momentarily upset because their team did not win, we all know that it’s just a game. Life goes on, and we either win or learn. So this month, if you are not celebrating Christmas, do not have family around, or do not enjoy all the hype for caroling, get together with someone to watch a game. Find someone around you who is also not waiting for Santa and share life with them. The point of this season is to remember that nobody has to be alone. For a Mele Kalikimaka, we need each other to make it happen. Merry Christmas!

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Bianellis: A New ‘Ohana Operation, Same Flavor Tradition Three and a half decades of serving Italian food on the Kona Coast ARTICLE BY MATIAS ARREDONDO | PHOTOGRAPHY BY FLETCH PHOTOGRAPHY

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | LI F E + CULTURE

If you have been to the Keauhou shopping center, you probably have stopped at Bianellis. Whether you are a regular who enjoys live music and good food or have been enticed by the smell of baked dough and spices, the truth is that this local Italian place can not be missed. Delighting Kona residents since 1989, Bianellis signature has been serving pizza, calzones, and pasta. Yet, in 2022, Thomas and Candace Dews took over the mantle as the new owners, carrying the tradition of beloved recipes while bringing new flavors and fresh ideas to the restaurant. Tommy – as he goes by – started his career in the food industry working for companies such as Macaroni Grill, Applebees, and Little Caesar’s, prior to a long corporate career at American Eagle in specialty retail. Tommy visited the islands monthly for 12 years as he operated the Hawai’i market within his greater territory. This wide range of experience in all facets of running a business prepared him to start his own. “Leadership honed my abilities the most to drive culture, create effective teams, and put in place new technology in the building such as online ordering while rebranding our logo to improve the marketing experience,” he shares. Following a friend’s advice, The Dews ‘ohana moved to Kona to establish a brewery and envision Bianellis as the perfect legacy business to do such. “How special is that to be able to start your passion project in one of the most incredible cities on Earth?” Tommy says. Running an Italian restaurant has many roles and responsibilities, but the one that Tommy treasures the most is making dough. As his dream is to own a brewery, he says the chemistry behind making dough is similar to the one making beer. You have to deal with yeast and temperature, finding the right

balance for the best results. Also, as a highly extroverted person who smiles and shares everywhere he goes, Tommy enjoys bartending. “Making drinks keeps me close to the local craft breweries. We offer Big Island Brewhaus, Ola Brew Company, Kona Brewing Company, and Maui Brewing Co. We do this very purposefully, making sure we are supporting independent Kona businesses. But also, as someone who wants to be a prep brewer, it’s good to be talking to people about different types of selections they can make and who the maker of the beer was,” Tommy shares. When asked what is the secret ingredient to their splendid food and service, Tommy points out that a good team is key. If the waiters and waitresses laugh, they create a good working environment, which results in a better connection with the customers and food that feels as good as it tastes. “Multiple people have told me recently that they can tell the team is happy because the food tastes like it,” Tommy says. The Dews think owners should be in the business, involved with their staff team, and getting to know local customers. They also believe businesses must adapt to what the people around them need in order to serve them well. As a result, Bianellis is now open for lunch, which is the first time since the restaurant was inaugurated. “We know it’s hard to find great food and places open. Many restaurants don’t open on Mondays or are closed for lunch. We wanted to get open, so our local community could have good options. It also gives us the opportunity to meet new people who don’t go out later in the day, Kona residents or tourists wanting to try our food,” Tommy says. CONTINUED >

“Our goal is to be a family-based establishment. We want you to feel your dog and your keiki are welcome. A place everyone can go to and find something. We’re excited to be here. We’re glad the community has embraced us, and we look forward to doing more with them. We welcome people to come and talk stories with us. Please don’t be shy.” — Tommy Dews, owner D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/KO N AC OAST

“Leadership honed my abilities the most to drive culture, create effective teams, and put in place new technology in the building such as online ordering while rebranding our logo to improve the marketing experience.” — Tommy Dews, owner Another way Bianellis seeks to serve customers is by making sure nobody is left out. If you have gone out with a friend just to see the sadness in their face after the realization that they can not have anything on the menu because of their special diet needs, you know what I mean. For this reason, Bianellis has made sure to include gluten-free cauliflower

crust, dairy-free cheese, and vegan pizzas in their options. So this Christmas season, if you get a craving for Italian food, now you know where to go. Pamper yourself, take a friend out, or bring your entire ‘ohana for lunch. There is something for everyone! Find out more at Bianellis.com

L E A R N M O R E : The Dews ‘ohana owns and operates Bianellis. Their ‘ohana consists of three as they have one son currently attending elementary in Kona and themselves, Tommy & Candace. Previous to Kona they were both born and raised in Michigan but spent 15 years in California, moving to Kona from the beach community of Olde Carlsbad.

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | LI F E + CULTURE

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Bikers Bringing Joy To Keiki TOYS FOR KEIKI RUN PARTNERS WITH KING’S KONA AND THE WAIMEA CHRISTMAS PARADE ARTICLE BY MARGARET KEARNS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY FLETCH PHOTOGRAPHY

Yes, you can hear them coming again this year! More than 300 bikers are expected to participate in this year’s ride that caps the Hau’oli Hoaloha (happy friends of aloha) Motorcycle Club’s toy-raising efforts that benefit hundreds of Hawai’i Island keiki. With about 15 different clubs based here, Hau’oli Hoaloha is comprised of 20 members who are

committed to putting family first, and honoring and respecting all riders on the road, according to the 2023 toy run organizer, Jonathan Neru. They are the values originally put forward by the club’s founder Maitland Akau, Sr. in 1983, Jonathan says. “That first ‘Toys for Keiki’ run in 1983 also took place in Waimea and this year we celebrate the 40th year of our CONTINUED >

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“All Free-spirited riders are invited to join us for the 2023 ‘Toys for Keiki’ motorcycle run in Waimea. If you have a heart for giving to our keiki, come!” — Jonathan Neru, event organizer

club’s founding with the run happening up in Waimea again, the location of the Akau’s family home,” Jonathan says. The 63rd annual Waimea Twilight Christmas Parade, the second oldest in Hawai’i, takes place on the first Saturday of December each year. Beginning at 5:30 p.m. in Waimea Park, the parade concludes at Kalani Shuttle District Park. This year’s theme is “Everyone Paddle the Canoe Together,” something that resonates strongly with the club, according to Jonathan. All “free-spirited” riders, club members or not, with an interest in giving back to the community, are invited to ride in the parade with a toy strapped to the front of their bikes, he says. “If you have it in your heart to give to our keiki, come,” he says. “Together we can make a difference in young lives, just as paddling together we can keep moving forward.” The annual ride took place for several years after the inaugural run, however, it took a hiatus following Maitland, Sr.’s death and his sons, Maitland, Jr. and Mikey Akau, becoming busy with all things adult – marriage, children and work. Up until then, they were active with the club and had organized runs with their father. December 2022 marked the return of the club’s “Toys for Keiki” motorcycle run, with the intent of continuing the legacy of gifting left by their father. All toys collected during this year’s campaign will be delivered to King’s Kona members who will distribute them to families, according to Mikey. “Our dad’s first love was actually playing baseball, not riding,” Mikey says. “His

doctor put an end to that hobby, however, after Dad suffered a heart attack in 1982.” As destiny would have it, a month or two following his recovery, Maitland, Sr. was out picking up a newspaper at the Kamuela Inn, according to Mikey. “He began chatting with two strangers there, Frank Aloiau and Arthur Oda, who were on island from Oahu doing what they love to do – riding their motorcycles,” he says. “They became quick friends, and my dad ended up inviting them to come home with him rather than stay at the inn. By the end of their visit, Dad had found his new hobby – biking,” Mikey says. The hobby soon grew to include not only the formation of the club, but a commitment for members to give whatever they can, whenever they can. Today, the club’s philanthropy includes additional causes. In August, the group spearheaded a motorcycle run to raise funds for the victims of the Maui fires, starting at the Old Airport in Kailua-Kona, riding through town along Ali’i Drive and continuing south to Hōnaunau. “I jumped at the opportunity to organize this fundraising run that attracted 150 riders with very short notice; all of their monetary donations were sent to King’s Chapel on Maui for distribution,” Jonathan says. This October, Mikey, Maitland, Jr., and Jonathan also donated their time to the 2023 Ironman World Championship here in the Big Island, providing race day transportation – on the back of their bikes – for media cameramen and women covering the event. CONTINUED >

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“Ironman is an amazing event, and our participation in driving photographers and reporters around the racecourse actually began in the late 1980s,” Mikey says. Club members really want to do their part in caring for all Hawaiian Island communities. “Our hearts are with those in need,” Jonathan says. For those who are interested in joining the Hau’oli Hoaloha Club, contact Mikey Akau at (808) 210-9280. For those individuals interested in donating toys for the December 2nd event, a tent will be set up along the parade route where toys may be dropped off. Toys, unwrapped and in original packaging, will be accepted for keiki between the ages of newborn to young teens. Don't miss the opportunity to give aloha!

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“Together we can make a difference in young lives, just as paddling together we can keep moving forward.”

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Chrismas in The Candlelight All along the Kona Coast, churches will be hosting Christmas services to bring our community closer this Holiday Season ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA ARREDONDO | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHURCHES OF KONA

As we enter the season of sparkling lights, good cheer, and constant busyness, it can be easy to get lost or overwhelmed. Sometimes we forget the true meaning of Christmas in the face of corporate glitz and glimmer, and many come out the other side of the holiday feeling hollow and dejected rather than bolstered by hope and “the good will of men.” But there still stands a light; an unflickering candle amongst the parades and pageants, the craft fairs and office parties, the family disputes and extensive shopping lists.

Amongst all this, our local churches shine as a reminder of the heart of the Christmas season. A birth, a sacrifice, and a love so grand and unfathomable it’s still being celebrated two thousand years later.So, if you are feeling alone this season, are looking for ways to give back to your local community, or like Charlie Brown, just find yourself struggling to remember what Christmas is really all about, here are just a few doors that are open to remind you. Kona Coast Christmas Eve Services:

New Hope Waikoloa:

Christ Church Episcopal:

Kona Baptist Church:

Address: 68-1845 Waikoloa Road # 215, Waikoloa Village / NewHopeWaikoloa.org

Address: 81-1004 Konawaena School Road, Kealakekua / ChristChurchKona.com

Address: 78-7156 Puuloa Road, Kailua-Kona / KonaBaptist.Church

Christmas Eve Service at 9:30 a.m. Highlands Center Courtyard.

Livingstones Ali’i Drive: Candlelight Services at 5 & 7 p.m.

Address: 76-6224 Ali’i Drive, Kailua-Kona / LivingStonesChurch.com

Advent Service at 10 a.m. Candlelight Service at 5 p.m.

Mokuaikaua:

Candlelight Service at 6:30 p.m. Address: 75-5713 Ali’i Drive, Kailua-Kona / Mokuaikaua.com

Church Ohana Christmas at 10 a.m. Christmas Eve Service at 7 p.m.

Saint Michael The Archangel Church: Christmas Eve Mass at 4 & 6 p.m. in English / 8 p.m. in Spanish Christmas Day Mass at 7 & 9 a.m. in English / 11 a.m. in Spanish

Address: 75-5769 Ali’i Drive, Kailua-Kona / SaintMichaelParishKona.org

L E A R N M O R E : This December 2nd, Mokuaikaua Church will once again be putting on their live nativity. You are invited to come and experience the story of Mary and Joseph as you journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem just in time for their baby’s birth. Complete with live animals, interactive environments, costumed players, and even refreshments. 5-8 p.m.

Mokuaikaua Church

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The City Lifestyle

Giving Campaign

2023 46

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“

This Giving Campaign is all about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”

The annual City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is in its 4th year. Last holiday season we gave away over $300,000 to help 116 individuals and families in need, but we need your help to make it happen again this year. With nominations flooding in from community members and leaders such as judges, police officers, teachers, nurses, social workers, mentors and readers like you, we were able to reach people who might otherwise go unnoticed. Perhaps you know of a single parent struggling to provide for their family, an elderly person who has experienced loss, someone enduring a health issue, a co-worker suffering a sudden, unexpected tragedy or a neighbor with a financial hardship who has fallen between the cracks of getting assistance. Chances are you know someone with a specific need, even if no one else does. “We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them during this holiday season.” “We believe God has blessed our company with continued success, so we in turn want to be a blessing to others,” Matthew Perry, President of City Lifestyle adds. City Lifestyle has also enacted an internal giving program whereby every employee in the company receives $100 to give away to someone in the community. “The idea is to encourage our employees to keep giving on their own,” Steven says. “Taking care of one another and blessing others is truly rewarding and it perpetuates a cycle of giving. It’s extremely important to me as a person and as a company to foster a culture of generosity.”

Scan Code to

Nominate Nominations accepted Nov. 27 – Dec. 10, 2023

Follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram for reminders! To submit a nomination, follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram and fill out the form found in the bio link. All entries will be read, and because this is not a raffle, there is no need to nominate someone more than once. The amount given to each recipient will be based on need. All nominations and recipients will be kept confidential. D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/KO N AC OAST

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EVE N TS

DECEMBER 2023

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area. DECEMBER 2ND

Holualoa Music & Light Festival

H I STO R I C H O LUA LOA V I L L AG E | 5 :30 P M Holualoa Village rolls out the holiday red carpet, inviting visitors and residents to ring in the holidays. Holualoa lights up the night with the annual lighting of the town Christmas tree, plus an appearance by Santa, gallery gatherings, art openings, food, drink and more! Our musical entertainment this year features John Keawe, the Kona Choral Society, and many more. DECEMBER 2ND

63rd Annual Waimea Twilight Christmas Parade

WA I ME A PA R K | 5 :30 P M Waimea’s famous Christmas Parade is the second oldest in Hawai’i. Every year, dozens of floats representing Waimea — including schools, youth groups, farms, ranches and businesses, plus a huge brigade of festively lighted trucks. After the parade, Santa visits Parker Ranch Center’s Fireside Food Court to share with the keiki. WaimeaTown.org/Parade DECEMBER 2ND

Journey to Bethlehem, a Live Nativity Experience

MO K UA I K AUA C H UR C H, A L I ’ I DR I V E | 5 :0 0 P M Come and join a live performance with real animals, actors, and actresses, telling the story of Mary and Joseph’s journey. Mokuaikaua Church, Hawai’i’s first Christian church will be offering once again a stroll back in time with a live interactive passage from Nazareth to Bethlehem. Mokuaikaua.com CONTINUED >

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EVENTS CONTINUED

DECEMBER 9 TH

37th Annual Kailua-Kona Community Christmas Parade

A L I ’ I DR I V E | 5 :0 0 P M Elaborate floats decorated in their holiday finest, festooned with brilliant lights, and carrying your favorite holiday characters will make their way down Ali’i Drive to Coconut Grove Marketplace in central Kona. Musical entries will be astride the floats and set up at stages along the way, meaning there is no bad seat in the house to watch. ParadesInKona.com DECEMBER 14 TH

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EVE N TS

Hawai‘i Island Steel Guitar Festival

6 8 -1 4 0 0 MAUNA L A NI D RI V E , WA I ME A The festival will be presented free to the public by the Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection and the Hawai’i Institute for Music Enrichment and Learning Experiences (HIMELE) in association with the Ke Kula Mele Hawai‘i School of Hawaiian Music. There will be school visits, workshops, Open Stage performances, a vintage steel guitar exhibit, and hands-on opportunities for festival guests. HawaiiSteelGuitarFestival.com DECEMBER 23 R D

The Nutcracker by West Hawaii Dance Theatre

KA H I LU T H E AT R E | 2:0 0 P M Enjoy this festive, family-friendly production with more than 55 local dancers and professional guest artists! Both new and original choreography will delight the audience as this iconic and charming fairy tale, based on The Nutcracker and The Mouse King by E.T.A. Hoffman, is performed to the melodic music of Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky. Find tickets at WHDT.org

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