Chieno Matsumoto, 103, discovered she had the same birthday as Ethel Ornellas Friday night during the bon dance hosted by the Kapaa Jodo Mission. Rev. Kosen Ishikawa (people were amused by the Aloha Chicken visit) said he needed to keep
Chieno Matsumoto, 103, discovered she had the same birthday as Ethel Ornellas Friday night during the bon dance hosted by the Kapaa Jodo Mission.
Rev. Kosen Ishikawa (people were amused by the Aloha Chicken visit) said he needed to keep his talk short so only three things: 1. “Aloha” for all — the memories of those who passed, the living, and everything; 2. Mahalo for all — the living, the ones who passed on, and everything; and 3. “Please enjoy!” — the most important thing.
Aki Conquest was busy gathering her Joyful Noise taiko ensemble ahead of a very busy weekend, Gary Furugen was ladling out generous portions of chili, Brian Yamamoto was helping take orders from the seemingly unending line at the food booth, and Mike Teruya was busy chatting with Ralph Nishimoto ahead of the dancing.
Brian Atentido came over to visit with Jose Pablo and her volunteers — Tommy and Wilma Chandler, and Henry Kaialoa — who came to help bring the Samuel Mahelona Memorial Hospital (Nel Melchor said it’s part of her job description) residents to enjoy the bon dance with Chieno Matsumoto. Jean Yoshida was representing since her brother Ed Kawamura was busy with the grand opening of the Hilton Garden Inn, Wailua Bay.
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Dennis Fujimoto, staff writer and photographer, can be reached at 245-0453 or dfujimoto@thegardenisland.com.
