Letter From The Editor

Here’s a confession: My love for writing initially was sparked by my hatred for talking.

Throughout my childhood, I was so shy that I would actively avoid most social situations. (I still do, sometimes.) But even the shyest kids need a way to express themselves, so I would put all of my thoughts on paper rather than having to actually speak.

Having some kind of outlet is important for kids — and it’s that sentiment that Kakaako’s Diverse A.R.T. Center is founded on. Created by dancer Nicole Kealoha, the center offers a range of art and dance classes. See the full story here.

It’s funny that for all of my effort to avoid talking, much of my job now is comprised of, well, talking. But it’s great because it allows me to chat with people like Mike and Wendy Hee, a husband-and-wife team that creates all-natural soaps. I sat down with them this week to find out how they got started here.

Also in this issue, future doctor/columnist Anton Glamb gets a weird look into being on the other side of the patient-doctor relationship, Christa Wittmier shares her adventures in ride-hailing apps and Roger Bong gives us a preview of an exciting show featuring The Deadbeats (page 17). Plus, Kait Hanson gets an inside look at some of The Pig & The Lady’s signature drinks (page 16).