The spirit of the Snake Pit came alive again. Thirty-five years after painting a giant snake on the student center roof, the Class of 1975 returned to ‘Iolani for their 35th reunion. What started as a student cheering section for basketball star Jerry “Snake” Scanlan ’75 had become a legendary symbol of school pride.
The reunion committee—Angus McKibbin, Mike Ako, Deano Ishiki, Gary Iwamoto, Steve Kuriyama, Terrence Lau, Chris Lee, Dave Masunaga, Wayne Muraoka, Harris Nakamoto, Blane Setogawa, Peter Tawarahara, Owen Terada, and Bryan Wong—organized three days of family-friendly events filled with memories and laughter.
The festivities began on August 5, 2010, with a Headmaster-hosted gathering during Alumni Week. Classmates toured campus, shared stories, and enjoyed a buffet of local dishes with Hawaiian entertainment. Everyone appreciated reconnecting in the place where their Snake Pit legend began.
The next day, the Snake Pit in the Grass Golf event at Waikele Country Club brought out both golfers and enthusiasts. Later, the “Snake Pit Boys Night Out” at Side Street Inn overflowed with classmates from across the mainland. Ted Abe, Frank Au, Bob Bennett, and Jerry “Snake” Scanlan joined from California, Washington, Virginia, and Arizona. Pupus, drinks, laughter, and shared surprises made the night unforgettable. Harris Nakamoto even shared the Eddie Hamada ’46 One Team DVD with the group.
Classmates received reunion gear, including lanyards, name badges, luggage tags, a music CD, and a copy of the 1975 Imua ‘Iolani senior edition. Cookie Corner chocolates, courtesy of Angus McKibbin and Jim McArthur, added a sweet touch. Archivist Rosemarie Panko provided historical context, sparking laughter over aging eyes and small print.
The final event, Snake Pit Family Day, took place on August 7 at Waikiki Beach’s Outrigger Canoe Club. Families joined classmates in perfect weather, enjoying a motorized sailing canoe ride across the bay. Noland’s boiled peanuts, Cookie Corner cookies, and the club’s barbecue buffet satisfied everyone. Adults relaxed, shared stories, and children watched movies, keeping the celebration lively and full of energy.
Reunion reflections brought nostalgia to life. Peter Sanborn ’75 recalled painting the snake and “75” on the roof late at night. Chris Hegele ’75 remembered Robert Bradshaw’s meticulous work and the thrill of sneaking around campus in the dark. These stories reminded everyone why the Snake Pit remains a cherished memory.
Looking ahead, the Class of 1975 tentatively plans a 55th birthday reunion in Los Angeles during Labor Day weekend, September 1–3, 2012. With University of Hawai‘i facing USC at the Coliseum, classmates from Southern California are invited to join the planning and celebration.
The Snake Pit 35th Reunion proved that decades may pass, but memories, friendships, and school spirit never fade. Laughter, camaraderie, and shared stories connected classmates across generations, honoring both their past and present.