HomeMy WebLinkAboutNR042018AEA� ` F
v
U � 9
Bernard P. Carvalho Jr.
Mayor g
s OF
COUNTY OF KAUA'I
AGENCY ON ELDERLY AFFAIRS
News Release
For Immediate Release: April 20, 2018
Wallace G. Rezentes Jr.
Managing Director
KEALOHA TAKAHASHI, EXECUTIVE
Tel (808) 241-4470
Fax (808) 241-5113
Events celebrate Older Americans Month
Kauai recognizes Older Americans Month during May to celebrate the achievements
and contributions of the kupuna in our community. They are taking part in activities that promote
wellness and social connection.They are sharing their wisdom and experience with future
generations, and they are giving back to enrich their communities.
This year's theme, "Engage at Every Age," emphasizes the importance of being active
and involved, no matter where or when you are in life. You are never too old (or too young) to
participate in activities that can enrich your physical, mental and emotional well-being.
The Office of the Mayor and the Agency on Elderly Affairs will host two events next month to
honor KauaTs Kupuna. The Annual Older Americans Recognition Ceremony will be held on
May 4 and a Festival is set for May 11.
The recognition ceremony will take place at 9 a.m. at the Kaua'i Beach Resort with a
luncheon to follow. The public is invited to attend the ceremony. Those who wish to stay for
lunch will need to purchase a ticket at $25 per person.
Eight kupuna who were nominated for the Outstanding Older American awards will be honored
at the event.
The nominees for Outstanding Female Older American are Elvira Kimokeo, Clorinda
Nakashima, Janice F. Nitta, Martina A. Semana, Margaret McGinty and Sonia Song. The
nominees for Outstanding Male Older American are Peter Rayno and Michael J. Vidinha.
The Older Americans Month Festival will be held on May 11 at the Kukui Grove Center,
from 9 a.m. to noon at the food court area. The event will feature agencies who offer assistance
to seniors and community organizations that offer opportunities for older adults to thrive and
remain independent. Fun entertainment by kupuna, demonstrations of crafts and door prizes will
round out the festivities.
"It's becoming more apparent that remaining socially engaged can improve the quality of
life for older adults," said Executive for the Agency on Elderly Affairs Kealoha Takahashi. "They
are working and volunteering, mentoring and learning, leading and engaging.
To purchase a luncheon ticket, please call 808-241-4470 by April 25.
If you need an ASL Interpreter, materials in an alternate format, or other auxiliary aid
support, or an interpreter for a language other than English, please contact the Agency on
Elderly Affairs at 241-4470 or via email, elderlyaffairs(a)kauai.gov, at least five days prior to the
event.
Front Row (left to right): Sonia Song, Elvira Kimokeo, Clorinda Nakashima, Martina Semana,
Janice Nitta, Margaret McGinty. Back Row (left to right): Mayor Bernard P. Carvalho Jr., Peter
Rayno, Michael Vidinha.