diy explosion gift boxes
Courtney TakabayashiExplosion gift boxes, a customizable surprise gift box, are a fun and unique gift style taking the internet by storm. With so many options out there, we’ve come up with a few of our favorite arrangements for you to try with step-by-step instructions to guide you. Best of all, they’re easy and quick to assemble if you need a last-minute present. Let us know which ones you try!
Eat Well
holiday foods from around the world
Festive feasts in Hawaii often feature foods from a melting pot of cultures, from traditional Hawaiian fare like kalua pig and laulau to local favorites like poke, sushi, and chili. But how do people around the world celebrate? Try these simple yet delicious dishes and desserts typically saved for the holidays.
Upcoming Events
Don't miss out on these events that are heading your way!
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Saturday, December 27, 2025
8:00 AM-9:00 AM
Waipahu,
Oahu
Friday, January 2, 2026
6:00 PM-9:00 PM
Wailuku,
Maui County
Saturday, January 3, 2026
8:00 AM-9:00 AM
Waipahu,
Oahu
From the Magazine
Take a look at some of the stories that made their way into the spotlight in this season's issue.
At age 40, after a traumatic medical emergency, Kapua Beyer Cavaco, a licensed clinical psychologist, was hesitant to ask her doctor about a newly discovered breast lump. Prompted by her husband, she spoke up, leading to an early diagnosis of invasive ductal carcinoma, or breast cancer. Following successful treatment, Beyer Cavaco found support from her family and friends and healing through forest bathing. Read more about her inspirational journey of healing.
fighting fires and fighting for mental health
Firefighters are real-life superheroes. From running into burning buildings to rescuing people from crashed cars, they save lives every day. But even superheroes need to take off their masks and capes. These brave first responders face tragedy day in and day out, and that can take a serious toll on their overall well-being. Find out how the Honolulu Fire Department is ensuring the warriors in battle are getting the care they need, so they can be their best selves and get their jobs done.
kaimana: a legacy in the making
When the HMSA Kaimana Awards & Scholarship Program started 20 years ago, the name “Kaimana,” or diamond in Hawaiian, was meant to represent the multifaceted talent of scholarship recipients who excelled in academics, athletics, community service, and sportsmanship. In celebration of this milestone anniversary, we caught up with seven scholarship recipients and asked them what winning a Kaimana Scholarship means to them.
On Oct. 4, 2024, Island Scene writer David Frickman suffered an ischemic stroke, caused by a blood clot in his neck that affected blood flow to the right side of his brain. Frickman shares his recovery story and writes about the various types of therapy he needed in the months after.
Learn how surfing is improving kids’ mental health with the help of nonprofit Surfrider Spirit Sessions.