December

HONOLULU Magazine and Paradise of the Pacific, chronicling the Islands since 1888.

Dec. 1915: "What is it that makes the Young Men’s Christian Association practical and therefore a power in the lives of men and boys?" asks Paradise of the Pacific, predecessor to HONOLULU Magazine, (see photo right). "It builds men’s bodies," with its gymnasium classes and team sports, and "it meets men’s social needs," with billiards, bowling, checkers, chess and music. "The Association builds character. … In Bible classes, meetings and personal interviews, men and boys are shown how to win out in the fight with temptation." At the time, the Honolulu YMCA’s membership exceeded 1,500, according to Paradise. Today, the organization serves more than 96,000 children, teens and adults through its nine branches (see Q&A, found here).

Dec. 1960: "Las Vegas, like so many other major cities on the Mainland, has gone Hawaiian," writes Paradise of the Pacific. "Almost every hotel on the ‘strip’ features Hawaiian entertainment in either their lounge or big show room," from Prince Maaka Nua and his Hawaiian Holiday Revue at the Dunes Hotel to Sunshine Beamer, Nalani Kele and Mahi Beamer (photo left) at the Stardust. The trio stands in front of Aku Aku, the Stardust’s Polynesian-style restaurant created by Waikiki’s own Donn Beach.

Dec. 1985: As George Ariyoshi begins his last year as governor, HONOLULU Magazine takes a look at his 12-year administration. During his tenure, Ariyoshi strongly supported renewable energy, marine research and diversified agriculture, and the state enjoyed a relatively low unemployment rate and a balanced budget. Known for his modesty and work ethic, Ariyoshi also gained a reputation for his seeming lack of charisma, as well as his extremely private nature. "History will probably give him an average rating," then state Sen. Ben Cayetano told the magazine. "I’m not certain I can put my finger on any specific accomplishment of the past 12 years. It’s been a nuts-and-bolts administration. Mundane, nothing inspirational."