Aloha e KS ‘89,

You are cordially invited to join us and take part in creating a special KS ‘89ers batch of rum in partnership with the Dan Akaka Family Foundation and Kō Hana Distillers.

Since our high school graduation nearly 35 years ago, we’ve stepped up to help and support each other when we could. And we’ve always gladly come together to enjoy time with each other.

Kuleana - Kōkua - Kākou

This project is about coming together as extended ‘ohana in celebration and in service to each other and our communities. The funds we raise will be used to support educational initiatives including educational scholarships, paying forward Ke Ali’I Pauahi’s gift to us.

It will begin during our 35th reunion and any classmates who are interested are welcome to attend.

Thank you for your generous support of this project.

FOR ANY QUESTIONS ABOUT THIS PROJECT AND THE SCHOLARSHIP CONTACT:

David Mattson, Drake Kau, Jamie Barboza, Jen-L Lyman or Wendy Brown

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This project will take place over five years. From the beginning where we ceremoniously plant the Kō, through processing and barreling, periodically tasting it as it matures, and finally it’s bottling, we will be part of this years-long process.

1.     2024: PLANTING CEREMONY. On Wednesday, June 5th, 2024 we'll meet at Manulele Distillery in Kunia at 92-1770 Kunia Rd., #227, Kunia, HI 96759 at 9:00 am.  Following that, we'll proceed to the cane field located on KS land in Hale’iwa. Here, we'll conduct a ceremonial blessing and planting event for the Kō. Additionally, participants will have the opportunity to engage in an educational tour of the surrounding land.  Return to Manulele for a distillery tour, rum tasting, lunch and fellowship. 

2.     2025: HARVESTING and JUICING . When the crop is ready to harvest, we will return to the cane field and harvest the cane we planted. The harvested kō will be juiced and fermented for a week, then distilled and barreled for aging. This offers a great opportunity for classmates to come together and work the 'aina.

3.     2026-2028: TASTING. (TBD) As the rum matures in the barrel, we'll have the chance to come back to it periodically and taste how it's coming along. This offers a chance to learn about how rum matures and flavors are enhanced when barrel-aged.

4.     2028/2029: BOTTLING. (TBD) Once the flavor of the rum is acceptable, which takes approximately 3 to 4 years, the rum will then be bottled for distribution. This marks the conclusion of the project, and when we can begin distributing the rum; a cause for celebration.

SPONSORSHIP is available.

You have an opportunity to sponsor this event. There are three tiers with different levels of recognition.

Kuleana - Kōkua - Kākou