Waiʻanae Hawaiian Civic Club Celebrates 90 Years of Service

A warm sense of aloha and deep cultural pride filled the air on Saturday evening, March 22, 2025, as the Waiʻanae Hawaiian Civic Club celebrated its 90th Anniversary at the breathtaking Makana ʻO Nalani Gardens. The evening, titled “Paʻina Makana,” brought together members, families, and community leaders to honor nine decades of cultural stewardship and community service.

Guests were welcomed with Now Niu, a soulful musical set by Jesse Mikasobe-Kealiʻinohomoku, setting the tone for an evening full of reflection, celebration, and unity.

The formal program began with an opening pule by Nani Peterson and heartfelt remarks from Hailama Farden. The club proudly honored two beloved kūpuna: ʻAnake Ruby Maunakea and ʻAnake Mele Worthington, both recognized for their unwavering dedication to the community and their roles in preserving and uplifting Hawaiian culture.

Hālau Ke Kiaʻi ʻO Ka Lama Kū graced the stage with a powerful hula performance, followed by a lively rendition of “‘Uheʻuhene” that had many in the crowd swaying and singing along throughout the evening.

The event also featured a silent auction with locally crafted treasures. As the night drew to a close, guests joined together in a moving rendition of “Hawaiʻi Aloha” and “Kuʻu Home ʻO Keaukaha,” a heartfelt tribute to the place and people that continue to ground the club’s mission.

This milestone celebration was made possible through the generous kōkua of many hands. Mahalo to Tamura, Foster Realty, Germaine’s Luau, Aukai Pieper, Leiʻa Haff, Shad Zane, Mike Pia, Roberta Searle, Merrie Aipoalani, Bonnie Morales, the Kawelo ʻOhana, the Louie ʻOhana, the Zizzi ʻOhana, the Stevens ʻOhana, the Barber ʻOhana, and the entire Paʻina Komike for their hard work and dedication behind the scenes.

As the Waiʻanae Hawaiian Civic Club embarks on its next chapter, the mana and love shared during this evening will surely guide its future. E ola mau ka lāhui!