K AUAI‘ Cooking with the Menehune Chef page 2 perpetuating the culture of the island Pages 8 & SpecialElections9Section Aloha Ramen • Deli & Bread Connection Genki Sushi • Ho’s Chinese Kitchen Kalapaki Joe’s • Kauai ParTea • Kauai Bakery • Kim Chee No. 9 L&L Hawaiian Barbecue • Oki’s Best Box Lunch Sone’s Deli & Catering • Times Supermarket Check the calendar for weekly events in the Food Court Kauai’s best choice of local foods for any time of day: Grab a Bite
“I couldn’t resist, and once I was all caught up, I allowed the kids to help me assemble the salad. Let’s just say the salad spinner was a hit. Before I left, I was given a card handmade by the kids. A simple thank you is what it took for me to break down crying,” Smith said. She developed Menehune Chef to bring children and families closer to each other. Smith said she grew up in a large family, and her parents worked extremely hard to provide for everyone. Sitting down at the dinner table and discussing their day, she said, was something that hardly happened. At 10 years old, she would watch the Food Network, trying to pick apart recipes and figure out how she would make them to her own liking. One of her favorite chefs on the TV channel was and still is Giada de Laurentiis, and ItalianAmerican chef and writer.
“If we heal our bodies through food, we can change the overall structure of our lives,” Smith said. “I’m not a doctor but I can tell you from experience, eating locally sourced ingredients, local meats, vegetables, fruits and fish can make you feel amazing. It can, and will change your life. You not only feel great; you are supporting local people and connecting with Aloha.”
“When we gather as a team or pack, we tend to have more fun making, eating and enjoying the fruits of our labor,” she said. “You will feel more connected and want to do it again and again. It only takes 14 days to create a healthy habit subconsciously. Give it a try!”
Menehune Chef’s philosophy is more than family connection and delicious food. It’s also about sustainability, sourcing locally and healing ourselves through food.
“Food has always been a big passion of mine,” Smith said. “I studied various after-school programs working as a health educator for 12 years. I knew deep down I had to create something around food education and hands-on experience.”
Combining all her skills and life experiences, Smith founded Menehune Chef more than seven years ago in her own kitchen. At first, it was a family activity, but it would quickly develop into something much larger.“Menehune Chef is a nonprofit organization teaching kids and families how to cook with sustainable foods grown in Hawai‘i,” said Smith, adding she started Menehune Chef by teaching her kids and their friends at her house in spring of 2015. Later, she started teaching small groups for after-school programs, and then expanded to private cooking lessons and TV shows. When the pandemic hit in 2020, Smith said, she didn’t have the capability to teach in the school system. The TV station KHON2 had just scouted her to be a food host for their 808 Lifestyle show. Then in 2021, she joined the Kaua‘i Visitor Channel team as a food host, touring and eating at some the best restaurants on the island.
“Menehune Chef offers the tools your kids need to thrive in the kitchen to become strong, healthy learners, and that will set them up for life,” Smith said. Visit menehunechef.org to email Smith and sign up for a class. Follow her on Instagram at @chef_amandasmith.
She also collaborates with local vendors, such as Mele Wraps, to avoid using plastic wrap, foil and paper. She recycles all plastic containers used during lessons and services, and offers alternatives to customers to purchase recyclable containers.
Armed with a positive attitude, an unmatched enthusiasm and a bunch of yummy ingredients, Smith shows on statewide TV how we can heal with simple, yet delicious recipes. This is the same excitement she brings to her private chef services, private cooking classes or after-school programs.
“Fast forward to getting married, having kids, later divorced, to being a single mom, I am proud of what Menehune Chef provides for kids today, not only for myself, but for the families and kids that thrive off of being seen and heard while learning such a valuable skill set and knowledge surrounding food education,” Smith said.
Diet, Smith said, is a word used to make us feel we have to make drastic and uncompromised changes.
Action, passion and noble intent allowed Amanda Smith to turn her dreams into reality. A mother of two, a former Ms. USA, a TV host, an educator, and a champion of sustainable living, she’s also a successful private chef fully invested in her community.
Smith also encourages us to cook with our families and friends to pass the boredom of doing it alone.
Additionally, people tent to find the easy way out and buy pre-made fast meals made with “fake ingredients,” she said. They usually think it’s more expensive to buy local foods, but if they did their research, they would find it’s extremely cheap to eat locally sourced ingredients, she said.
By Léo Azambuja
“Heal-thy,” or the word heal, is a word that suits everyone.
“She was elegant, simple and often cooked for her family and friends,” Smith said of chef Giada. “I felt so compelled to one day be like her.” Deep down in her heart, she said, she wanted more connection with her family.
Menehune Chef founder Amanda Smith. Contributed photo
Cooking with the Menehune Chef
“I am reminded everyday of how much I love doing what I do. I am forever grateful,” she said.
One of her biggest achievements through Menehune Chef, she said, is seeing families engage with each other, laughing, learning and eating together. She can see their progress after each session, the knowledge they acquired, and more importantly, they tasted Hawai‘i dishes they will be able to make at home together, she said.
Recently, Smith did a private chef service for a family. She said she usually doesn’t teach during those services. But she had the “cutest kids,” ages four and six, asking her if they could help.
Smith incorporates locally sourced ingredients, collaborating with local farmers, ranchers and other chefs. She uses locally grown taro – the most important Hawaiian staple – local fish, beef, honey, fruits and vegetables as much as possible.
Helping kids to become more hands-on in the kitchen, allowing them space to grow, and taking a cooking class together are all ways of getting kids to become more excited about eating healthy, and also more conscious about where they will source their food when they grow up, according to Smith.
Plan (DMAP). Please scan the QR code to read the plan. You’re also invited to follow @kauaidmap on Instagram. Join the movement #EKūlikeKākou KVBH-25560-1_DMAP_ForKauai_Aug2022_9.25x5.indd 1 7/28/22 4:24 PM
A fast way to send money to people you trust. Send money directly to friends and family in minutes using Zelle® in our mobileTermsapp.andconditions apply. Call us at 808.245.6791 or learn more at www.gatherfcu.org/zelle. Scan here to learn how Insured by NCUA JOB#: KVBH-25560-1 If you have questions concerning this file, please contact our Creative Production Manager immediately at 808.544.3056 CLIENT: Kauai Visitors Bureau COLOR: 4C PUB: For Kauai RUN DATE: 8/1/22 BLEED: no TRIM: 9.25”w x 5”h LIVE AREA: n/a Maika‘iHemoleleKaua‘i,ika mālie. Beautiful Kaua‘i,Peaceful in the calm. KAUA‘I DESTINATION MANAGEMENT ACTION PLAN 2021–2023
Kaua‘i
County
The Hawai‘i Tourism Authority has partnered with the Kaua‘i Visitors Bureau and the of to create a Destination Management Action Plan. This plan aims developed part of the change…check out Management Action
to rebuild, redefine and reset tourism. Action items were
Kaua‘i
in 2020 with community input, and include: n Attracting and educating responsible visitors who will respect the culture and ‘āina. n Providing actionable solutions to enhance quality of life by protecting natural resources and managing visitor impact. n Addressing issues of traffic, infrastructure and local business. Be
the Kaua‘i Destination
may need care before they are able to survive at sea! CALL (808) 635-5117 OR GO TO SAVEOURSHEARWATERS.ORG FOR Kai@SAVEOURSHEARWATERSASSISTANCEEastākeaFireStationKapa‘aFireStationS O S ( 7 3 7 0 K U A M O‘ O R D ) North K ī lauea Medical Group Hanalei Fire Station Hanalei Liquor Store CENTRAL-SouthLīhu‘eFireStationKōloaFireStation HanapWaimeaWestFireStationēpēFireStationKalāheoFireStation *APR= Annual Percentage Rate. As of September 1st, 2022, the Kauai FCU VISA Platinum credit card rates range from 7.99%-12.99% APR. Rates are subject to change, are variable, and subject to increase after account opening. The Kauai FCU VISA Platinum credit card has 0% cash advance fee. The balance transfer fee is 1.00%, and the foreign transaction fee is 3%. The Kauai FCU VISA Platinum credit card also has no annual fee. Promotional rate on balance transfers posted with an effective date between 09/1/22 and 10/15/22. Rate will be good until 4/15/23 after which time the rate will revert to the cardholders standard rate. (808) 245-2463 | www.kauaicreditunion.org Federally insured by NCUA Free up money with a Kaua‘i FCU VISA Platinum Credit Card in the month of September and get *APR The Nation’s Premier Medicare Brokerage Personalized help with your Medicare choices on island and in all 50 states. Medicare Supplements Medicare Part C&D Life Long-TermInsuranceCare Insurance Final Expense True Freedom Home Care Jason www.themedicaregeek.com808-652-5210Blake
Save Our Shearwaters
If you
This time of year, seabirds leave their nests at night are guided by the light of the moon out to sea. these birds can be attracted to artificial light by mistake and end up grounded. Once grounded they are often unable to regain flight, and become vulnerable to a variety of threats (e.g. predation, contamination, vehicle collisions). rehabilitates birds the Hoary Bat. find a grounded bird, drop the bird off at the nearest Aid Station (listed below). bird receives a full assessment staff. seemingly healthy birds
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K AUAI‘ PUBLISHER Carrie Johnson carrie@forkauaionline808-651-5577com ART & LAYOUT Andarta Design • design@andarta.com SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR Honey socialmedia@forkauaionline.comcalendar@forkauaionline.comHunter EDITOR IN CHIEF Léo editor@forkauaionline.comAzambuja SEPTEMBER 2022 Published by Kaua‘i Management Group For Kaua‘i Newspaper PO Box 223579, Princeville, HI 96722AllLocal • All Community • All Kaua‘i On the cover: Menehune Chef founder Amanda Smith. Contributed photo SALES & MARKETING Barbara Bennett, Sales Manager barbarakauai@gmail.com808-652-2802 AID STATION LOCATIONS SEPT.15-DEC.15
Surfers and weightlifters often injure their necks, backs and shoulders. Improper shoulder mechanics can impinge rotator cuff muscles, causing tendon tears and chronic shoulder pain with weakness. This can plague athletes at any level. Competitive athletes and weekend warriors of all ages rely heavily on the integrity, strength and durability of their joints. Warming up gradually and stretching before and after working out or competing is essential, as is seeking proper care for muscle and tendon sprains, ligament strains, and tears to the connective tissues in the joints.
Licensed AppliedPhysicianNaturopathicKinesiologySpecialist MILES GREENBERG, ND Naturopathic Physician DR STEVE DUBEY Licensed LicensedPhysicianNaturopathicAcupuncturist Dr. Zack Allen, ND
Fuel Activities with Proper Nutrition
Shopping at the various farmers markets and picking tropical fruit from our trees, provides a cornucopia of colorful plant-based nutrients that an active body needs. Be sure to fuel workouts with complex carbohydrates from leafy greens before exercising, and follow each workout with lean protein to provide muscles with the raw materials they need to stay strong.
Your HealthNatural Natural Health Clinic A full service naturopathic clinic and pharmacy centrally located in Lihue 3093 Akahi St., www.naturalhealthclinickauai.com808-245-2277Lihue
Those of us who are fortunate enough to live on the Garden Isle of Kaua‘i love to stay active. However, maintaining a healthy body free of pain and injury is a challenge shared by all Kaua‘i surfers, paddlers, hikers, runners, dancers, weightlifters and other athletes. The keys to injury-free fitness for active locals are proper nutrition, hydration, sufficient warm-ups and correct body mechanics. Here are some tips for maximizing success and enjoyment, while minimizing down time due to injury.
Use Correct Body Mechanics
• Dr. Zack Allen, ND practices at the Natural Health Clinic in Līhu‘e and is currently available by appointment. Visit www.drzackallen.com for more information.
Take Care of Joints, Ligaments
By Dr. Zack Allen, ND
DR. ZACK ALLEN
Stay Hydrated Here on Kaua‘i, with its warm climate and abundant sunshine, frequent hydration is essential. Fatigue, headaches, mood swings and muscle cramping can result from improper hydration. Drink filtered water from glass containers whenever possible. A rule of thumb is to drink half your body weight in ounces (e.g. 100 ounces a day for a 200 lb person), plus however much fluid you are losing through perspiration on any given day. When sweating is prolonged or profuse, remember that you are losing more than just water. Coconut water replenishes electrolytes lost in sweat.
Ice Is Not Always the Answer
When a sports injury has not healed fully after several weeks of rest and homecare with ice and antiinflammatories, it’s time to seek alternatives. Ice and anti-inflammatories are often helpful initially, but they can also prevent the joints from healing properly. Nutritional supplements such as fish oil, turmeric and proteolytic enzymes will provide better results than ice and anti-inflammatories and will help to prevent future injuries. Ice is only appropriate immediately following an injury. It’s best to alternate hot and cold applications, always ending with cold. Walking and other light exercise, when possible, allow fresh blood, oxygen and nutrients into the joints, and pump lactic acid and other waste products out of the muscles. Ligaments and tendons have a notoriously poor blood supply, which can allow minor injuries to worsen and cause chronic pain. Effective treatments such as prolotherapy, ozone (prolozone), platelet rich plasma (PRP) and stem cell injections can regenerate your joints when they aren’t healing on their own. Regenerative injection therapy (RIT) can get you back to the hobbies, sports and lifestyle that you enjoy and value. Each of these injection types will be thoroughly reviewed in future articles. Whether you love catching waves, working out, playing sports or dancing hula, following the guidelines discussed above, and checking in with a healthcare professional who understands the demands you place on your body, will enable you to stay in the game and heal quickly and efficiently after inevitable sports injuries.
Staying Active and Injury-Free on Kaua‘i
Joints are able to heal faster when they are properly aligned. When joints are misaligned, stress and friction occur, much like what happens to your car when it is out of alignment. In the body, pain and weakness in the joint alert the nervous system to inhibit the strength of the muscles attaching to the injured joint. When a joint returns to proper alignment, and the ligaments are strong enough to maintain that alignment, muscles can fully engage, and the athlete can perform without pain or weakness in the joint. Effective spinal manipulation is not always adequate.
Knee injuries are common in runners, hikers and dancers. Overuse injuries result from repeated impact due to flexing, jumping and landing at odd angles. The body can typically withstand such activities to a point with good body mechanics and alignment of the spine and extremities. However, when there is point pain, this often suggests that the knees have loose or injured ligaments, allowing the knees to become unstable due to the inflammation and wearing down of its structures. The meniscus absorbs some impact in the knee, and is also prone to tearing. A qualified sports injury specialist can assess and treat most knee problems of this kind.
Dubbed “Code Red Swell Part II” by surfline.com, due to “code red” conditions shutting down harbors and marinas in Tahiti (second time since August 2011), the swell came from a storm producing a large area of 50-knot wind and small pockets pushing hurricane force winds, impacting large swaths of the Pacific including Hawai‘i and California.
Problems from exposure to annual high wave runup, coastal erosion, and passive flooding from sea level rise will increasingly be a problem islandwide. Each side of our island already shows examples of this, especially during large storms and king tides, which show us important
Recent High Wave Flooding a Reminder of Climate Crisis Akeakamai By Ruby Pap
glimpses into what is to come. As you can see by viewing the wave runup map for Ho‘one Road in Po‘ipū, the impacted areas are similarly showing us that this swell provides an important look at what is likely to become more common in the coming decades.
In July, a southwest swell of historic proportions produced by distant storms near New Zealand created waves upwards of 20 feet on the south and west shores of the Hawsaiian Islands.
Not surprisingly, areas that flooded due to the large waves are also predicted to be affected by sea level rise, now and into the future. The increased warming of our oceans due to climate change is predicted to raise sea levels on Kaua‘i one foot by 2050 and 3.7 feet by 2100 (intermediate scenario) according to a recent National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration report.
We also need to get more creative and proactive in our short-term response and longer-term adaptation strategies for our beaches, cultural treasures, infrastructure and homes. First, when sand washes up on land after a storm do not haul it away – put it back on the beach or the dune where waves can access it and gradually incorporate it back into the active beach. Beach sand is a valuable and severely limited resource and any loss of sand results in more erosion down the line. If you live on a shoreline subject to coastal flooding, pay attention to surf forecasts and move debris and other objects inside. It is also time to think seriously about relocating structures out of harm’s way. Get educated on Federal Emergency Management Agency programs that may be able to assist with flood mitigation and repetitive loss. A good resource for you would also be your county’s Floodplain Manager and the Coastal Zone Management program.
At the community level, there are many opportunities to get involved with climate adaptation planning islandwide. The Kaua‘i Climate Adaptation Plan (kauaiadaptation.com), which is in the process of being created, needs the public to be involved. It is the most important place to start for anyone who lives or works on the island as it will address all climate hazards – flooding, extreme heat, wildfire and drought. Sign up for the mailing list, get educated on the project documents and provide your input.
At the state level, there are many helpful resources to learn more about climate change in Salt Pond on Kaua‘i’s Westside is seen here in this photo, after being flooded by high waves. Ideally, the pond stays dry in the summer to allow for salt making. In this case, the salt making area was spared but the area around it flooded. Impacts were minimized by the restored beach berm. Photo by Ruby Pap
Coastal flooding events like this are expected to increase over time, and responses should be taken at all levels of our community, not just government. We can all do our part to reduce our carbon footprint to reduce and slow the impacts of climate change and to avoid the worst predicted impacts that will be inherited by future generations. We can also learn from our neighboring islands, like Maui, where highway flooding even without large storms has become such a nuisance that investments have been made in wave runup forecasts to assist with planning and response. See www.pacioos.hawaii.edu/shoreline-category/runup-westmaui/.
The Hawai‘i Sea Level Rise Viewer (hawaiisealevelrise.com) allows you to visualize SLR up to 3.2 feet on all of our coastlines, and it has a specific data layer showing predicted annual high wave runup. A quick tour of Hawai‘i’s sea level rise maps shows Ho‘one Road increasingly exposed to annual high wave runup under conditions of one to three feet of sea level rise with the first block of homes affected behind Brenneke’s.
According to wave buoys at Barber’s Point on O‘ahu, ocean wave heights reached approximately 8 feet with periods of 20 to 30 seconds resulting in 20 foot waves on shore –historic levels for the South Shore – where large swells typically trend in the 10-foot range. Here on Kaua‘i, we are used to large northwest swells but less so on the South Shore, which has many large hotels built by the water’s edge, shoreline roadways, and waterfront homes. All felt the brunt of July’s south swell, which combined with high tides resulted in significant coastal flooding which damaging infrastructure and closed roads. The result of July’s historic south swell in this area was dramatic, but relatively speaking could have been worse, and perhaps will be so with the continued rise of sea levels due to climate change. Wave runup flooded Ho‘one Road by Brenneke’s Beach, plus Ho‘onani and Lāwa‘i roads. It also swamped spectators at a popular shoreline restaurant (despite warnings to stay away from shoreline areas due to the dangerous surf). Valuable beach sand washed up onto the roads, perhaps reclaiming a pre-development area would have been a natural place for the beach to migrate to. While, luckily, there was little damage to the seawalls and roads, there was some undermining of the pavement in a few areas. This provides a good look of what is to come with continued sea level rise.
The Westside also experienced issues with the swell, including flooding of Kaumuali‘i Highway in Kekaha and flooding of the lo‘i pa‘akai of ‘Ukula at Hanapēpē (Hanapēpē Salt Pond). Thanks to the restored beach berm at Salt Pond Beach Park, makai of the salt-making area, the flooding of this important Hawaiian salt-making area was much less than in prior years, when the beach was deflated due to vehicle use that has now been curtailed. This speaks to the importance of maintaining and restoring healthy beaches and dunes as protective mechanisms against large swells and high tides.
Resource Recovery Solutions
will send material to ERI Headquartered in Fresno, California or other certified R2 or e-steward certified facility.
Full list available at www.kauai.gov/eWaste Hawai‘i. For sea level rise maps, see hawaiisealevelrise.com. According to State law (Act 179), sellers of residential property are required to disclose whether a property is within the sea level rise exposure area. Also, check out the Hawai‘i Climate Portal for a comprehensive, easy to navigate website on all things climate change: climate.hawaii.gov/. Hawai‘i Sea Grant has a whole host of opportunities to learn and participate in climate science as well. Community members who frequent the shoreline and like to take pictures can contribute to the King Tides Project every summer: pacificislandskingtides.org. Your photos will contribute to a growing database that will help to identify problematic flooding areas as sea levels continue to increase.
ElectronicRecycling!Waste ACCEPTED ACCEPTEDNOT videoandofficeaccessories,phonescellularaccessories,systemsComputerandandequipment,audio&equipment. items.orandsmokeCRTcrackedequipment,contaminatedpackaging,batteries,Non-computerorbrokenscreens,detectors,hazardousnon-eWaste All brands of Electronic Waste (eWaste) are accepted with no quantity limits. 6 DAYS A WEEK! Puhi Metals Recycling Facility, 3951 Puhi Road, Mon-Sat 7:30AM-3:30PM OPEN TO BUSINESSES AND RESIDENTS FOR FREE!* Visit www.kauai.gov/eWaste or call 241-4841 for more information. Large eWaste such as commercial printers and industrial electronics may be subject to packing and handling fee, call 245-6919 for more info.
Dune restoration is an important tool for improving overall beach health and buffering the impacts of waves and erosion on the land. Hawai‘i Sea Grant recently published a how-to manual to get started:
modelthishurricaneshawaii.edu).ofpracticeslocaliscommunityprojectslandownerscountyRestoration-Manual-Final.pdf.seagrant.soest.hawaii.edu/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Hawaii-Dune-Thismanualisintendedforusebycommunitygroups,nonprofits,andstateagenciesanddepartments,coastalresortsandcondominiums,coastalandmanagers,andanyoneinterestedinconductingproactivedunerestorationinpartnershipwithHawai‘iSeaGrantcommunityextensionagents.IwouldberemissifIdidn’tacknowledgetheworkandinvolvementofthecountlessKaua‘iorganizationsworkingoncommunityresiliencetohazardsonKaua‘i.Whilethelisttoonumeroustostatehere,ifyouarenewtotheisland,talktoyourneighbors,staytunedtomediaforopportunitiestovolunteer,andlearnmoreaboutmālama‘āina,NativeHawaiianofcaringforthelandandproperlymanagingtheresourcesandgiftsitprovides.Lastly,asyourfriendlyislandSeaGrantExtensionAgent,Iamavailabletotalkstorywithanyyouaboutyourspecificquestionsorissuesaboutclimatechangeandcoastalhazards(rpap@Kaua‘ihasanamazinghistoryofcomingtogetherincrisis,whetheritwasafterInikiandIwaortheCOVID-19Pandemic.Ilookforwardtocontinuingtoworkwithamazingcommunitytodooursmallparttoaddresstheglobalclimatecrisisandtoserveasaforhowtorespondtoitsislandimpacts. • Ruby Pap is a Coastal Land Use Extension Specialist with the University of Hawai‘i Sea Grant College Program. She is based on Kaua‘i. Both pictures above show Ho‘one Road in Po‘ipū after being flooded and damaged by high waves. Photos by Ruby Pap
Page 8 BERNARD CARVALHO www.VoteBernardCarvalhoJr.com Paid for by Friends of Bernard Carvalho Kaua‘i County Council Dedicated✓ ✓ ✓ Build for a Better Tomorrow Proven Please Vote November 8th Leadership Your voice counts! forELECTIONKAUA‘I HEADQUARTERS General Tuesday,Election:November 8 Voters receive their ballots in the mail for the General Election by October 21 Ballot Drop Off Locations: Hanalei Neighborhood Center Hanapepe Neighborhood KalaheoCenter Neighborhood Center Kilauea Neighborhood Center Koloa Neighborhood Center Princeville Public Library Waimea Neighborhood Center Waipouli Shopping Center Elections Division Office of the County Clerk 4386 Rice Street, Room 101, VoterLihue Service Center Historic County Annex Building 4386BasementRice Street, Lihue
Born and raised on Kaua’i Small business owner Husband and father Get policy proposals and platform details by visiting Luke online: Paid for by Friends of Luke Evslin PO BOX 1214, Lihu'e HI 96766 Born and raised on Kaua’i Small business owner Husband and father platform details by visiting Luke online: Paid for by Friends of Luke Evslin PO BOX 1214, Lihu'e HI 96766 Born and raised on Kaua’i Small business owner Husband and father Get policy proposals and platform details by visiting Luke online: Paid for by Friends of Luke Evslin PO BOX 1214, Lihu'e HI 96766 VOTE on Nov 8 Paid for by Friends of Luke Evslin PO Box 662074, Lihu‘e, HI 96766 Putting People First Your Full-Time Councilmember here for you: 808-652-4363 Paid for by Felicia Cowden Ohana • 4191 Kilauea Road, Kilauea, HI 96754 www.feliciacowden.com CountyAccountability…and•••••VoteMahaloELECTMELRAPOZOKauaiCountyCouncilforYourContinuedofConfidence!KNOWNFORAdvocacyfor:FiscalResponsibilityPreservationofAgriculturalLandsShorelineProtectionSolidWasteIssuesPublicSafetytheofLeaders Now More Than Ever… melforkauai Paid for by the Friends of Mel Rapozo • 3-2600 Kaumualii Hwy, Lihue, HI 96766
www.leadershipkauai.org
“It’s often hard to do, but worthwhile when you see your staff and colleagues exhibiting positive behaviors that keep your organization moving forward in a positive direction,” she said. Milani’s favorite quote is, “Whatever you can do or dream you can, begin it; Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it,” by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe.
By Char Ravelo
• Char Ravelo is the Executive Director of Leadership Kaua‘i, and can be contacted at info@ leadershipkauai.org or (808) 246-8727.
Visit Kaua’i Habitat for Humanity at www.kauaihabitat.org for opportunities to volunteer or donate.
“I understood there is a human/compassionate way of looking at operations and decision-making and also the business side has to be considered as well. I’ve been laid off, I’ve had hours cut. I came into leadership roles at points where I thought I’d have more time to adjust and train up into those roles. What I’ve learned is to expect the unexpected and know how to think smartly and pivot accordingly,” she said.
Here is a snapshot Milani’s journey of service for others that led up to the tremendous role she has today. Milani was born on Kaua‘i, then moved to the Mainland as a youngster. Volunteerism began in the 7th grade as a candy striper, and continued throughout high school in the Interact Club with local Rotaries and other serviceWhileclubs.atLoyola University in Chicago, she had the opportunity to coordinate service projects and volunteered at Windy City Habitat for Humanity where she learned to drywall and work with homebuyer families. She also helped United Blood Services plan blood drives on campus. A human resources intership at the Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority led to a lead role in a project that impacted all employees from trainees to executives. These experiences brought valuable lessons that help form her base of understanding in the work world and leadership in general. After college, she moved back to Kaua‘i to see her family, and planned to stay for only a year. About three years later, she landed a wonderful job as support staff for a nonprofit organization whose mission was focused on plant conservation, science and education. She learned from as many colleagues as possible and got to work. With great mentors and role models who saw her potential, she was promoted and ended her tenure as the director of annual giving.
Executive Director
Since its inception in 2003, Leadership Kaua‘i, a 501 (c)(3) non-profit dedicated to cultivating strong and committed leaders on Kaua‘i. We do this by engaging a cross-section of youth and adults from diverse backgrounds, and developing their leadership skills to serve our community collaboratively.
Kaua‘i is lucky Milani and her family stayed longer than a year. They were able to build their home through the Self-Help Housing Corporation, a program that provides affordable housing and guides low-income families to help each other to build their own houses.
Leading a nonprofit that deals with the Kauai’s toughest issue is not an easy job.“Well, I have a job to do, people that I’m responsible for and responsible to, and things need to get done. What inspires me is knowing the great feeling of and envisioning more people getting into affordable homeownership, as I was able to do back in 2001,” she said. There will always be hiccups in any leadership journey, Milani said, adding she had to learn to manage emotions as she came up as a leader.
Spotlight: Milani Pimental, Kaua‘i Habitat for Humanity
Milani would like to ask other to really consider lending their time and talents to projects and initiatives that are returning a tangible benefit to our community.“Asaleader, it’s my obligation to use my skills to help create lasting impact. I do this through my work, I also try to achieve this through service with other organizations. Keeping this top of mind helps me to feel fulfilled,” she said.
Pimental, Leadership Kaua‘i Class of 2009, has been with Kaua‘i Habitat for Humanity since 2010, and happily says it is the “best job ever!” Who says it these days?
• 808-246-8727
Carrying the torch for affordable housing on Kaua‘i.Milani
As we move forward, she hopes we can see “communities fo opportunity,” where residents have access to the things vital to their lives and enable them to thrive as a community. In these areas, you would also see housing continuums that offer an array of housing types to serve the broad range of our community’s residents. In a good continuum you’ll have a mix consisting of transitional housing, affordable rentals, affordable ownership, even some market rate rentals and ownership.
Another ask, Milani said, is to call on yourself and others to help “model the way” as learning modules at Leadership Kaua‘i teach.
Individuals who have found the balance of purposeful giving and a deep satisfication of knowing the hard work is a life-changing opportunity for another.
When asked what gets her up in the morning, Milani said, “On a cold day in Kalaheo, it’s a little tough, LOL. But seriously what gets me up in the morning is knowing that there is much to be done in the world of affordable housing, and that I’m happy to be alive and able to put my skills to work so that others can benefit just as my family and I have benefited from being affordable homeowners and giving back through service.”
SeptemberAlakaina
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“Our mission is to create a healthier Hawai‘i,” added Faith Campbell, Wilcox Health’s Director of Marketing and Special Projects. “Partnering with our community to hold events like Keiki Bike & Skateboard Safety Day helps us to do just that.”
“Our East Kaua‘i Lions Club members believe in safety, and enjoy serving. Our motto is ‘We Serve!’ It’s a joy to see parents bring their keiki to get new helmets each year, to decorate their helmets, and visit the many wellness booths,” Bond said. This year, 12 East Kaua‘i Lions Club members volunteered.
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Joanna Petterson is exceedingly well-qualified to teach bicycle skills, as she’s a professional international mountain bike racer.
“I look forward to this event because I love seeing the pure joy and excitement the kids have as they’re pedaling away on the bicycles,” Valenciano said. Reach out to Tommy Noyes at 808 639-1018 or news@KauaiPath.org if you’d like to help improve our island’s bicycling and skateboarding resources.
• Tommy Noyes is Kaua‘i Path’s executive director, a League of American Bicyclists Certified Instructor and active with the Kaua‘i Medical Reserve Corps.
North Shore Lions and Troop 148 and 334 scouts taught bike safety skills at this year’s Keiki Bike and Skateboard Safety Day, coordinated by Wilcox Medical Center. Photo by Tommy Noyes
Keiki Bike and Skateboard Safety Day
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“Kaua‘i Skate Ohana brings fun obstacles and supports the children in learning to skateboard safely. Families are having fun experiencing new healthy activities together. As a Physical Therapist, fun and movement are public health to me,” Pacilio said.
“During the event, we enjoyed each other’s company and socializing with the other participating Lions Clubs. Mahalo to all the volunteers who made this event awesome,” Bond said.
Three Lions Clubs were essential in making the day a success: the North Shore Lions with the bike skills course layouts and operations, plus the Kaua‘i and East Kaua‘i Lions Clubs managing helmet fitting.
Family Fun Kaua‘i Style
More than 300 Kaua‘i residents attended this year’s Keiki Bike and Skateboard Safety Day, coordinated by Wilcox Medical Center on Aug. 13. The Medical Center’s staff, service organizations, volunteers, and a variety of wellness and safety purveyors set forth a wide range of services.
“I enjoy sharing the basic skills and safety tips for skateboarding with Kaua‘i’s youth,” contributed Gregg Pacilio said he enjoys sharing skateboarding basic skills and safety tips with Kaua‘i’s youth.
“Volunteering on the day of the event is the easy part. Supporting the efforts of all those that make this event possible for Kaua‘i’s keiki is an honor. Beyond that, I love to see the youth of Kaua‘i embracing healthful activities and finding joy in discovering what they’re capable of,” Petterson said.Avid cyclist Audrey Valenciano takes charge of matching the keiki with appropriate loaner bikes.
“We members of Troop 148 have been involved with each of the Wilcox Keiki Bike and Skateboard Safety Days since its inception, mostly to support Kaua‘i Path, Inc. Kaua‘i Path extended to my Troop the same safety training and bicycle experiences in the outdoors on the bike path,” Tabata said.
Community
“It’s inspiring to see their eyes light up when one of the keiki completes a skill. The number of community volunteers that step up and help make the event successful makes me feel proud, and I greatly appreciate Wilcox staff’s hard work putting on this extraordinary event,” Christy said. Scout master Lyle Tabata reflected on the Boy Scouts’ participation, and his own commitment.
Wilcox Medical Center donated and distributed 180 dual-certified helmets. While the free helmets, properly fitted under the supervision of doctors on the Medical Center’s staff, drew people, the 32 bicycles and 30 skateboards donated by community members and Wilcox staff awarded as prizes were also a major attraction.
“As a health care professional, I’m thrilled to see the community come together to share their expertise with our keiki and provide them with a supportive network that encourages growth, confidence, and a healthy mindset,” said Marty Collins, Trauma Program Manager and Stroke Center Coordinator, Wilcox Medical Center.
Jim Benkert operates Eco Ebikes Kaua‘i, and taught bicycling skills during the “Myevent.favorite part about the day is seeing all the parents bringing their kids in to learn. It shows they care about their kids, and that they recognize bikes as a part of their lives,” Benkert said. “I enjoy volunteering at this event,” Janice Bond said she likes to volunteer at the event, measuring heads and giving helmets.
“I enjoy seeing families out together having fun,” said Educational nonprofit Kauai Path’s Vice President Tom Christy said he enjoys seeing families having fun together.
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By Tommy Noyes When Troop 148 hosted the Scouts visiting from Japan, Tabata added, Kaua‘i Path coordinated a bike excursion on Ke Ala Hele Makalae for about 60 members.“Theboys enjoy helping and working with the Lions Club members, assisting Kaua‘i Path with the bikes, and teaching the younger ones how to operate bicycles safely,” Tabata said. This year, because of COVID, their numbers have been down, so Troop 148 invited Troop 334 to assist them.
“As you may also know,” Tabata concluded, “I have been a Wilcox Hospital Board member for a number of years, and love supporting anything that the organization does for our community. This event is always special, as it allows me to participate with my Boy Scout Troop.”
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