Story and photos by Terry Shimabukuro
December 17, 2024
This year’s Christmas Party took on a somber note with the sudden passing of long-time member Ed Rhinelander the day before the event. Ed loved a good party and while we missed his radiant smile, infectious laugh and amusing stories we consoled ourselves with memories of the good times we shared with him. Event organizer Eileen directed her elves to transform the almost 100-year-old HTMC clubhouse into a festive setting for all to enjoy. Early arrivals enjoyed ono pupus and purchased stylish club t-shirts.
Incoming club president Bill Murphy led about 40 members and guests in a moment of silence for Ed and introduced new club members. Beth gave a multi-denominational blessing and hungry attendees swarmed the bountiful buffet. Except for Peggy’s perfectly roasted turkey and Beth’s expertly sliced ham this was a pure bring-whatever potluck and it was great to see members respond with a delectable assortment of healthy grain dishes.
Diners spread out over the brightly decorated tables under the covered lanai to enjoy their meals, catch up with old friends and make new ones.
Rusty Lillico, one of the club’s founding members, created the club’s website over twenty years ago. With no prior training, Rusty taught himself the basics of web design and put together a simple, but effective website to publicize the club activities. Back then, there was no social media so unless you knew a club member or happened upon a club paddle the website was your portal to the club. Many of our most active members discovered the club through Rusty’s website. We presented Rusty with a custom plaque made by club member Elliott Wong to thank him for his many years of dedicated service as webmaster .
Katrena organized the photo and video contest and efficiently tallied the votes to keep our activities on schedule. Kevin showed off his camera skills winning both the photo contest and claiming the Peebles’ Award. He also won the video clip category. Chalsa had the second place photo and Ruby and I tied for third. My capture of Norm’s Coptic Easter campfire kanikapila earned a video clip second place. Sandy and I collaborated on a Crash and Burn video that garnered the first place video award. Kevin produced the #2 video documenting the Windbag Regatta.
In addition to making the one-of-a-kind plaque for Rusty, Elliott donated prizes showcasing his mastery of other skills with his laser cutter. Contact him if you would like to purchase similar or other custom made items.
Norm and Mary Ann led the group in the joyful singing of Christmas carols. Kimberly directed the “white elephant like” gift exchange where stealing was allowed and, in fact, encouraged. No one came to blows.
Mahalo to Eileen for expertly organizing our year-end event and to all who helped with setup and cleanup. We look forward to another year of great paddles!