Kauai Family Magazine Summer 2024

Summer 2024

KauaiFamilyMagazine.com

We love our life; we love our island. It is the people that makes our island so special, creating moments that will last a lifetime. At Gather, we touch lives in ways that matter. We help bring out the joy and laughter in life, no matter where you are.

MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR

DEREK S.K. KAWAKAMI, MAYOR

Aloha, and congratulations to all of our graduates from Kaua‘i! I am so proud of each of you, and I offer my best wishes on your upcoming endeavors!

Summer is a time for us to enjoy the beauty of the Garden Isle. It is a time to reconnect with our families and loved ones. Kaua‘i offers many great activities, from surfing and fishing to camping and taking in the island’s natural beauty!

Mahalo to Kaua‘i Family Magazine, which helps our community find programs and activities that are fun for everyone – from keiki to kūpuna!

I hope you all enjoy a safe and relaxing summer!

Derek S. K. Kawakami Mayor, County of Kaua‘i State of Hawai‘i

JOIN OUR TEAM

BECOME A GUARDIAN OF YOUR OHANA!

We at the  Kauai Police Department are inviting you to be part of something bigger — a community of protectors safeguarding our cherished Ohana. Our officers don’t just uphold the law; they defend our families, ensuring safety and security for all. Now, it’s your turn to join us and become a guardian of your Ohana. Together, let’s make a difference and protect what matters most.

OPEN POSITIONS

• Police Services Officer

• Emergency Services Dispatcher

• Public Safety Worker

• Accountant

• Accountant Tech

• Accountant Trainee

GREAT BENEFITS

ALL POSITIONS ARE ON CONTINUOUS RECRUITMENT

For more information, go to  www.kauai.gov/humanresources  or reach out to Sgt. Matt Tavares (mtavares@kauai.gov, 808-241-1647)

For more information: www.kauai.gov/humanresources

Scan the QR code above to watch an informational video

Scan the QR code below to apply now

MESSAGE FROM DANIEL HAMADA

INTERIM KAUAI COMPLEX AREA SUPERINTENDENT

Aloha!

The 2023 – 2024 school year has gone by so quickly. This academic year, our schools have continued to show positive student growth overall since returning from the pandemic. Most notably, all of Kauai’s elementary and secondary schools have finalized their curriculum realignment including common diagnostic assessments taking another pivotal step to support student learning.

Recently, a national research study indicated that Hawaii’s public education continues to show positive student achievement and progress, ranking Hawaii in the top tier. Our students have enjoyed another year of exciting athletic competitions and other extra-curricular activities.

Finally, the upcoming graduation ceremonies of our three high schools help to culminate another successful year. We congratulate and wish the Class of 2024 the best in their future endeavors.

On behalf of our K-12 schools, I would like to express my appreciation and gratitude by saying “thank you” to our parents and the larger Kauai “Ohana” for supporting our schools. Kauai continues to model the importance of community in our daily actions in being there for our students. We are so fortunate to live here and be part of this wonderful island-strong community.

Sincerely,

Daniel S. Hamada Kauai Complex Area Superintendent

Kauai is one of the most beautiful places on earth, no matter the season. But there's no doubt that summer on Kauai is extra special — bursting with ... Can't-Miss Events. An annual KFM favorite, Koloa Plantation Days (July 19-28) boasts "ten days of family-friendly fun in Kōloa and Po‘ipū" (p. 12). Trust us, you don't want to miss it! You'll also want to check out Summertime Fun at Kukui Grove (p. 16). Turn to page 42 for more of our best-loved events! Fun Things to Do. From fishing tournaments (p. 28) to day trips (p. 48) to Fourth of July celebrations (pp. 20-21), there's so much to do on Kauai, it can be hard to keep up with it all. Not to worry! We've got you covered with our schedule of family happenings (p. 18) and our list of Kauai's "best of" (p. 46).

Enrichment Opportunities. We highlight Kauai's best summer camps and programs on pages 24 to 27. Whatever your keiki loves (or wants to try), you're sure to find it here. But don't delay! They fill up fast! Quality Family Time. Sometimes what you need most is quiet, quality time at home with loved ones. Plant a garden with your kids (p. 76). Make banana splits (p. 51) or homemade ice cream (p. 14) — or both! Have an unplugged day to read books (p. 75), do puzzles (pp. 62 & 74) and "summer learn" (p. 60). Ways to keep your family safe and healthy. First, make sure everyone stays water-safe (p. 22). Visit Tropic Care Kaua'i for free healthcare (p. 11). Heed veteran ER doctor Monty Downs' top 5 safety rules (p. 52). Keep your four-legged family members safe and comfortable during fireworks (p. 50).

Mahalo, Kaua’i, for allowing KFM to be a part of your ‘ohana!

Chrissy

Chrissy Schechter,

Publisher

chrissys@KauaiFamilyMagazine.com

P.S. The 10th Annual School Supplies

Giveaway is July 13 (p. 64).

Rebecca Hastings

Michelle LeFever, R.D.H

Sarah Lyons

Edie Mann

Mark Oyama

Leah Ragsac

SUMMER FEATURES

18 FAMILY FUN SUMMER HAPPENINGS

Exciting events for the whole ‘ohana

46 BEST OF KAUA’I SUMMER

Campgrounds, museums, ziplines & more!

52 MY TOP 5 KAUA’I SAFETY RULES

Veteran ER doctor Monty Downs shares

tips to keep your family safe this summer.

60 SUMMER LEARNING

Weave learning into daily activities

76 BENEFITS OF GARDENING WITH KIDS

Ditch the screens and get outside.

Keep them safe on the 4th 76 Koloa Plantation Days Parade

WHAT’S INSIDE

14 KAUA`I RECIPES

No-churn mango ice cream

28 KAUA`I OHANA

Fishing tournaments

36 KAUA`I KUPUNA

Caring for and honoring our kupuna & caregivers

51 KAUA`I KEIKI

Make banana splits

50 KAUA`I PETS

Kauai Family Magazine is able to provide quality local content because of the continued support of our advertisers. Please support local businesses and tell them you saw them in Kauai Family Magazine!

TROPIC CARE

KAUA ' I

JUNE 13 - 20, 2024

No cost healthcare. No ID or health insurance needed. Kaua'i Bus fixed route services islandwide will be free of charge June 13 - 20.

MAIN CLINIC:

Kapa'a Middle School, June 13 - 20

SATELLITE CLINICS:

Waimea Canyon Middle School, June 13-15

Kilauea Elementary School, June 18 - 20

SERVICES:

Physical exams, dermatology, eye exams, eyeglasses, dental exams, fillings and extractions.

TIMES: 8:00 am to 4:00 pm *

*All clinics will close at 12:00 pm on June 20.

First come, first served - be prepared to wait! Please bring: water, snacks, eyeglasses, and a list of current prescriptions.

For more information, please visit: health.hawaii.gov/kauai or scan the QR code with a smartphone.

If you need an auxiliary aid/service or accommodation due to a disability, please call (808) 241-3555 at least seven days in advance. Requests made as soon as possible will allow adequate time to fulfill said request. If you need the services of an interpreter, please call (808) 241-3564. Upon request, this notice will be available in other alternative formats, such as large print language.

“

Our Home Town”

July 19-28, 2024

Ten Days of Family Friendly Fun in Kōloa and Po‘ipū

Preparations are now underway for this year’s 38th annual Kōloa Plantation Days Festival, to be held July 19th-28th throughout Kōloa and Po‘ipū. Over 20 events during 10 days feature all aspects of plantation life and highlight the natural beauty and community of the Kōloa area including sporting events, “talk stories” on local history and plantation life, live music and culinary events, guided historic walks and events for keiki.

“This week of events this year highlights the theme ‘Our Hometown’, paying tribute to the people and places which made this upbringing special.”

Kōloa was the site of Hawaii’s first commercial sugar mill in 1835. Kōloa Plantation and those who followed brought contract laborers from Asia and Europe to work in the fields and the mills. Where they lived in plantation camps, the workers from each country shared the foods, music, stories, and traditions of their homelands. Kōloa Plantation Days commemorates these diverse cultures and how they were shared as a part of plantation life.

This week of events this year highlights the theme “Our Home Town”, paying tribute to the people and places which made a plantation upbringing special. The festivities are steeped in area history and bring the community together with stories of plantation life, guided historical walks, a plantation era exhibit and

Hawaiian cultural workshops to pass on the history and culture. There’s plenty of live music, local foods, contests, and a Fun Run to get out and enjoy Kōloa. Most events are inexpensive or free—a perfect way to introduce plantation era history to youngsters.

The traditional Festival opening at Kōloa Village brings Kōloa past and future together, paying tribute to the host culture and to the generations of families living in the area with a Paniolo themed party. The final weekend spotlights the annual Kōloa Plantation Days parade through Kōloa town which was the original event that started the festival on the 150th anniversary of Hawaii’s first sugar mill. This year’s colorful parade is on Saturday, July 27th. Entries will highlight Kōloa town and our diverse cultures with floral floats, walking and equestrian units, decorated vehicles, vintage cars, and marching bands. Riding units are always a favorite, as are the many ways the community expresses the theme—remembering the plantation heritage of our home town. This year’s parade honors Dr. Murray. He serves Kōloa with offices right next to the Planation monument as you enter town and the stack of the 3rd Kōloa Sugar Mill.

After the parade, guests stroll down to Knudsen (Kōloa) Ball Park for an all-day celebration

featuring top tier music and entertainment, Kaua‘i ’s largest craft fair with Kaua‘i Made products, keiki rides and activities and ono local foods spotlighting Kaua‘i ’s many cultures. The Festival closes with the Family Fun Run on Sunday—a great way to explore the area together.

The founding “mother” of the event, Phyllis Kunimura was a teacher and reminded us how important it is to involve kids in learning about area history. Her favorite part was the parade and sharing the varied cultures that came together on Kaua‘i through the plantation camps. Since the last sugar plantation on Kaua‘i closed in 2009 and as the generation who lived the sugar era gets older, the festival is an opportunity to share these traditions and experiences with future generations of Kaua‘i kids.

Visit WWW.KŌLOAPLANTATIONDAYS.COM

for more information and a full schedule of events. Mahalo to the County of Kaua‘i and the local businesses, families, resorts and organizations who make the Festival possible each year.

Sayalohatosummer

INGREDIENTS

2 cups of ripe mango (about 2.5 Hayden mangoes)

1 14-oz. can of sweetened condensed milk

2 cups of heavy cream

1 tsp. of vanilla (optional)

No-Churn

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Dice mangoes and blend into a puree (about 2 cups).

2. Pour the puree into a non-stick saucepan and stir for about 10 minutes on medium heat — until the mixture reduces down to 1 cup. (This step prevents icicles from forming in the ice cream and yields a more intense mango flavor.)

3. Let the mango puree cool.

4. Mix sweetened condensed milk into the mango puree.

5. In another bowl, whip heavy cream with a mixer until stiff peaks form. Then, gently fold half of the heavy cream into the mango mixture.

6. Once blended, pour in the rest of the heavy cream and fold until smooth. Add vanilla in at this time, if desired.

Freeze for 12+ hours.

8. Let thaw for 5 minutes before serving, allowing the ice cream to reach a soft, creamy consistency that’s even better than store-bought! er required No ice cream maker

BY CHEF MARK OYAMA MARK’S PLACE

Your kid can be a KFM cover kid like adorable Ander!

2024 COVER KIDS SEARCH

Does YOUR CHILD Want to APPEAR on the cover of Kaua’i Family Magazine?

We are looking for four children ages 2-11 to appear on the cover of a future issue of Kaua’i Family Magazine.

DEADLINE

July 20, 2024

Contest open to all Kaua’i County residents ages 2-11.

A $15 registration fee per entry must accompany a recent, high-quality photo, which will be used to determine finalists.

Submitted photos of 20 finalists will be displayed at www.KauaiFamilyMagazine.com.

Finalists will be invited to a judging event August 10th to help determine contest winners.

Email events@kauaifamilymagazine.com or visit our website for complete rules and more information.

Enter online at www.KauaiFamily Magazine.com/contests/cover-kidssearch (or scan QR code at right).

Scan this QR code to register!

BACK TO SCHOOL bash

SUMMER HAPPENINGS FAMILY FUN JUNE

MAY

HLTA Annual Visitor Industry Charity Walk

Saturday, May 4, 6am–1pm

Vidinha Stadium Soccer Field

www.hltakauai.org

Kauai Made

Mother’s Day Saturday

Saturday, May 11, 10am-3pm

Kukui Grove

www.kauaimade.net

Mother’s Day Concert

Sunday, May 12, 12-1:30pm

Kukui Grove

FREE Family Day Movie Night

“Migration”

Sunday, May 24, 5-8pm

Kukui Grove

Pedal to the Meadow

Sunday, May 26

Cycle from Kekaha up to Kokee

www.pedaltothemeadow.com

p2mkauai@gmail.com

Ha’ena to Hanalei

Saturday, June 1, 5-9am 8-mile Run or Walk, Half Marathon, 5K Run, Youth Run Register: www.hanaleicanoeclub.org/haena-run

Kauai Pride Parade & Festival

Saturday, June 1, 9am-2pm

Rice St. from Vidinha Stadium to the Historic County Building www.KauaiPrideParade.com

Grove Farm Crafts Fair & Farmers Market

Saturday, June 1, 9:30am–12:30pm

Puhi Park

Dance Fusion Studios Presents

The Madness in Wonderland Show

Sunday, June 2, 4pm

War Memorial Convention Hall www.dancefusionkauai.com

World Ocean Day

Friday, June 7, 5:30-7:30pm Storybook Theatre Hanapepe

Kauai Poke Fest

Saturday, June 8, 2–7pm

Celebrity Chef Sam Choy

Koloa Landing Resort, Koloa

www.kauaipokefest.com

World Ocean Day

Saturday, June 8, 11am-2pm

Kukui Grove

Tropic Care Kauai

June 13-20, 8am-4pm

Main Clinic: Kapa’a Middle School: June 13-20

Waimea Canyon Middle School: June 13-15

Kilauea Elementary School: June 18-20

No Cost Healthcare. No I.D. or health insurance needed. Services: physical exams, dermatology, eye exams, eyeglasses, dental exams, fillings and extractions.

Kauai Bus routes services islandwide will be free.

www.health.hawaii.gov/kauai

The King’s Parade & Ho’olaule’a

Saturday, June 15, 10am–3pm

Vidinha Stadium to Historic County Building

Rice street closes at 9:30am

KKCC.kauai@gmail.com

Dad’s Day Car Show

Saturday, June 15 10am-2pm Kukui Grove

Father’s Day Fishing Tournament

Sunday, June 16, 10:30am – 2pm

Nawiliwili Yacht Club Small Boat Harbor

Keiki ages 3 to 13 are invited to bring an adult for a great day of fishing and prizes. Cost is $5, which includes a hotdog and soda. Bring your own bucket, fishing pole and bait. www.nawiliwiliyachtclub.org

Honey Bee Celebration

Saturday, June 22, 10am-2pm Kauai Coffee Visitor Center

JULY

PMRF Freedom Fest

Wednesday, July 3, 4pm gates open PMRF, Barking Sands, Kekaha

FREE family event; open to the public Fireworks, live entertainment, food www.pmrf.greatlifehawaii.com

Kauai Hospice 4th of July Concert in the Sky Fireworks

Thursday, July 4, 3:30-9pm

Vidinha Stadium Soccer Field

www.kauaihospice.org

Independence Day Fun

Thursday, July 4, 11am-1pm Kukui Grove

Back to School Bash

Saturday, July 13, 10am-2pm

Online registration opens July 1 Kukui Grove Center

www.KukuiGroveCenter.com

Kauai Bike Safety Day

Saturday, July 20, 8-11am

Wilcox Medical Center

www.WilcoxHealth.org/BikeSafety

Koloa Plantation Days

July 19-28,2024

Ten days of Family Fun in Koloa & Poipu

For schedule of events, visit www.koloaplantationdays.com

Hawaii Children’s Theatre Presents:

Willy Wonka Jr.

Friday, July 26 & Saturday, July 27, 7pm Sunday, July 28, 3pm

Tickets: www.hctkauai.org

Koloa Plantation Days

Family Fun Run/Walk

Sunday, July 28; 6-9:30am

Poipu Beach Park

1 Mile Keiki Run, 5 K Run/Walk,10K Run, 10 Mile Run/Walk

Kukui’ula Outrigger Canoe Club

www.KoloaPlantationDays.com

AUGUST

Heiva I Kaua’i

Saturday, August 3 & Sunday, August 4 10am-5pm

Kapa’a Beach Park

Tahitian Dance Competition

Food and craft vendors

Admission: $8; ages 12 & under free www.heivaikauai.com

Relay for Life

American Cancer Society

Saturday, August 17, 4-10pm

Vidniha Soccer Field (808) 466-1703; kittrin.cade@cancer.org

www.relayforlife.org/kauaihi

Events are subject to change without notice. Always call event first to confirm.

Wednesday, July 3

Pacific Missile Range Facility, Barking Sands

• OPEN TO THE PUBLIC • with LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

Koloa Plantation Days -

Family Fun Run/Walk

Sunday, July 28, 2024 6:00 a.m.–9:30 a.m.

Poipu Beach Park

Four different course lengths to choose from

• 1 Mile Keiki Run!

• 5K Run/Walk

Celebrating Kaua‘ i’s Plantation Roots … Lessons of Aloha

• 10K Run

•10 Mile Run/Walk

July 17-26, 2015

• Awards given to 1st-3rd overall as well as 1st place for each age division for each race course.

Contact: Kukui’ula Outrigger Canoe Club (808) 635-0165

franinkauai@gmail.com

www.koloaplantationdays.com

Bon Dance Schedule

June 7-8 Waimea Higashi Hongwanji Mission

June 21-22 Kaua’i Soto Zenshuji - Hanapēpē

July 12-13 West Kaua’i Hongwanji Mission –Hanapēpē next to the Library

July 19-20 Līhu’e Hongwanji Mission

July 26-27 Kapa’a Hongwanji Mission

August 2-3 Waimea Shingon Mission

The 2024 Bon Dance schedule is sponsored by Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative

BY REBECCA HASTINGS

BE WATER SMART Make summerasuccess!

Swimming is one of summer’s greatest joys, but it is, of course, not without risk. To enjoy the water, it is essential to have a plan to keep everyone safe in the water.

SAFETY FIRST

Safety is the foundation for successful swimming experiences.

Never let kids swim alone, even if they’ve had lessons.

Designate a person to watch the water and keep a close eye on the kids. “Close eye” means undistracted and in close proximity to swimmers.

Know the swimming abilities of everyone in the water.

Learn CPR and basic first aid.

Keep a phone nearby to call 911 quickly, if needed.

Use approved safety devices, whether it be swim vest, safety floatation device or life jacket. Adults, too! Setting a good example for kids is important.

Never swim at a beach without lifeguards.

LEARN THE BASICS

Any age is a good age for kids to start swim lessons, but the earlier they start, the more time they have to grow into strong, confident, safe swimmers.

With proper lessons, kids as young as infants can become comfortable in the water. Toddlers will learn how to be in and around water safely and start to learn to swim.

Certified instructors guide children in age-appropriate activities and teach fundamentals, including floating and treading water—important life preservation skills in case of emergency.

ADDRESS ISSUES

Swimming and water play aren’t fun for everyone. Sometimes kids are reluctant to be near water or have fears based on previous experiences. Other times, parents are uncertain, so pools and beaches are avoided altogether to keep everyone “safe.”

The best (and safest) solution is to address issues honestly and with patience and compassion.

Reluctant swimmers: Take a calm, no-pressure approach to

NOTE FOR ADULTS

It’s never too late!

If you don’t know how to swim or want to become a strong swimmer, find an instructor who works with adults.

water exposure and learning. Find an instructor who has experience with reluctant swimmers. Pushing kids into water so they “get over it” is never a good solution; neither is completely avoiding water! Instead, expose kids in a safe, gradual, encouraging way.

Refusal to swim. If your child refuses to try learning basic water skills, it can be tempting to give in, thinking it’s not essential. Be firm in your resolve to follow it though with your child. A basic level of comfort and ability in the water could be lifesaving later in life.

Fear of water. If your child experiences or sees a scary water event, it may be hard for him or her to try swimming again. Give your child space to talk about the issue. Consider talking to your pediatrician or a counselor to help process the event and find healing.

Knowledge is key when it comes to water safety. Educating children from a young age — and keeping yourself informed — can lead to a lifetime of healthy, safe swimming.

APRIL 8 – JULY 20, 2024

BOYS & GIRLS AGES 10-13

Mon. & Wed., 4-6p.m.

BOYS AGES 14-18

Mon. & Wed., 4-6p.m.

GIRLS AGES 14-18

Tues. & Thurs., 4-6:30 p.m.

CONTACT Coach Lori Parraga 808-631-2729

World Oceans Day!

June 7, 5:30-7:30pm

Ages 9-14 • July 26-29 Free Free

Storybook Theatre in Hanapepe

Honey Bee Celebration!

Saturday June 22, 10am-2pm

Kauai Coffee Visitor Center

Koke’e Community Arts Camp

Ages 5-8 (with parents) • July 18-22

Introduction to Hawaiian Forests

INFORMATION & REGISTRATION

Storybook Theatre • 808-335-0712 office@storybook.org • www.storybook.org OFFERING PAID SUMMER INTERNSHIPS SUMMER

www.kaiolacanoeclub.com

Hawaii Children's Theatre

Friday & Saturday at 7 pm Sunday at 3 pmFamily Events

THURSDAY, JULY 25

5:30 PM: DESSERTS & FUNDRAISER 6:30 PM: SHOW!

FEATURING THE TALENTED STUDENTS OF THE AM RISING STARS PROGRAM!

This summer, learn to swim and become fast and strong in the water.

• Learn all four swim strokes

• Train in a positive team environment

• Compete in swim meets

ALL LEVELS & ABILITIES WELCOME

AGES 5 TO 17 PRACTICES MON. THROUGH SAT.

SwimKauai.com

Pool location: YMCA of Kauai 4477 Nuhou St., Lihue

County of Kauai Parks and Recreation 2024 SUMMER PROGRAMS

Summer Fun Program

Dates: June 17 to July 26

Monday to Friday 7:30am to 4:30pm (excluding holidays)

Registration: Wednesday, May 15, 8am recreation.kauai.gov/wbwsc/ webtrac.wsc/SPLASH.html

LIMITED ENROLLMENT

Sites: Kekaha, Hanapēpē, Kalāheo, Līhu‘e, and Kapa‘a Neighborhood Centers; Anahola Clubhouse; and Kōloa Elementary School

Fee: $75 per child (5 to 11 years old)

More information online at: kauai.gov/Government/DepartmentsAgencies/Parks/Programs/SummerPrograms

Contact: Bronson Carvalho 808-241-4465

Summer Learn to Swim Classes

Registration: Saturday, May 18, 3pm In-person at the Waimea and Kapa‘a Pools

LIMITED ENROLLMENT

Summer Golf Program

Registration:

• Monday, June 10, 8am to 5pm

• Wailua Golf Pro Shop

LIMITED ENROLLMENT

Fee: $35 per child, per session (7 to 15 years old)

Three Sessions:

• Session 1 – June 17 to June 28

• Session 2 – July 1 to July 12 (except July 4)

• Session 3 – July 15 to July 26

Days/Hours:

• Mondays-Thursdays: 8am to 12pm

• Fridays: 1pm to 5pm

More information online at: kauai.gov/Government/DepartmentsAgencies/Parks/Programs/SummerPrograms

Contact: Darrel Rego

808-241-4100; drego2@hotmail.com

Ages: 5 to 11 years old

Two Sessions:

• Session 1 – June 4 to June 28

Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays

• Class 1 Beginner – 10am to 11am

• Class 2 Beginner –11:30am to 12:30pm

• Session 2 – July 2 to July 26

Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays

• Class 1 Beginner – 10am to 11am

• Class 2 Advanced –11:30am to 12:30pm

Contact: Graham Kovarik

808-822-3842

SUMMER PROGRAMS

WRESTLING

Kapaa

Located at the Kapaa K-PAL Youth Center (behind Mahelona Hospital)

Wednesday, Thursday, Friday

K – 12th: 4:30-6PM

Waimea

Located at Waimea Baptist Church

Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday

K – 12th: 6:30-7:30PM

Lihue

Located at the Kauai High School new gym

Tuesday, Thursday

K – 8th: 3:15-4:45PM

9th – 12th: 4:45-6:15PM

Volunteers! KPAL is looking for coaches/volunteers for its programs. To sign up, scan the QR code below and complete a Coach/Volunteer Form.

BOXING

Kapaa

On break until fall

Hanapepe

Located on Puolo Rd., next to the Hanapepe Armory

Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday

K – 5th: 5-6PM

6th – 8th: 6-7PM

9th – 12th: 7-8PM

Saturday

All ages: 9:30-10:30AM

JIU JITSU

Hanapepe

Located on Puolo Rd., next to the Hanapepe Armory

Monday, Friday

K – 5th: 5-6PM

6th – 12th: 6-7:30PM

Saturday

All ages: 10:30AM-12PM

FLAG FOOTBALL

Season will run on Saturdays from June 1 to July 20 at the auxiliary field next to Vidinha Stadium. Registrations have closed, but if interested, please contact us (see information below).

OHANA

Fishing is a great outdoor activity for the whole family. Anyone in your family can fish, if they can hold a hand pole or rod and reel. Going fishing gets keiki unplugged from video games and phones for at least a few hours; or, if they start catching some fish, you might get them unplugged for the whole day!

Some locations you might want to try fishing for keiki are the public piers (Waimea Pier, Hanalei Pier and Ahukini Pier). The boat harbors (Nawiliwili and Port Allen) also have some good rocky spots for beginners, too.

‘Ohana Fishing Days 2024

Kauaʻi Families First (KFF) presents a day of family fishing fun! All ages and experience levels welcome. They provide the gear, bait and a helping hand. You provide the smiles! For more info and to register, email kffohanafishing@gmail.com or call 808-639-0284.

9AM-NOON EACH DAY

Saturday, June 1

Nawiliwili Harbor

Saturday, June 8

Kukuiula Harbor

Saturday, June 22

Hanapepe Tennis Courts

Saturday, July 13

Anahola Beach Park

Saturday, July 20

Lydgate Beach

Saturday, July 27

Ke’e Beach

Fishing gear giveaways at each event!

Father’s Day Fishing Tournament

Sunday, June 16, 2024

10:30am–2pm

Prizes awarded at 1:30pm

Location: Nawiliwili Yacht Club

Small Boat Harbor

Register: 10-11am at the Nawiliwili Yacht Club

Ages: Keiki 3 to 13 years old are invited to bring an adult for a great day of fishing and prizes.

Cost: $5, which includes a hotdog and soda.

For more details:

www.nawiliwiliyachtclub.org

Bring your own bucket, fishing pole, and bait.

Empowering Kauai through Dance

• Dance Classes for ages 3 years old - Adults, Beginning to Advanced Level Classes

• Dance styles: Ballet, Lyrical, Contemporary, Musical Theatre, Jazz, Hip Hop, Contortion, and Breakdance

• Dance training provided by our professionally trained and experienced staff of teachers

• Providing a safe space both mentally and physically for everyone to learn professional dance technique, build confidence, create friendships, and have fun!

• Dance Company starting this summer!

Auditions for all dancers will be on May 18th!

DANCE CAMPS

June 10-14 and July 8-12

Monday-Friday, 9am-1pm

DANCE CLASSES

Tuesday-Thursday afternoons, offering Ballet, Lyrical, Jazz, and Hip Hop/ Breakdance

For detailed information: dancefusionkauai.com info@dancefusionkauai.com (808) 634-0226

4504 Kukui St. Suite 204 Kapaa, HI 96746

Sunday, June 2nd, 4pm at War Memorial Convention Hall in Lihue

$18 in advance

$25 day of show

Dance Fusion Studio’s newest show is bringing you a side of Wonderland you've never seen before, in a time when Alice wasn’t there! This is a story of the madness and chaos that has consumed the land of Wonderland and how they are able to overcome it. This creative concept is told through dynamic storytelling, dance of all styles, and vibrant visuals that are sparked from our deepest imagination!

Get ready to step into a land of mystery, excitement, and MADNESS!

Purchase tickets in our studio with cash OR at dancefusionkauai.com

Be Like Ander

smile big. wave with enthusiasm. spread kindness.

Ander Kiseki Ihara (our cover model) was born on Kauai on December 4, 2017, to his mother, Traci, and father, Justin — and has been spreading joy to everyone he sees, ever since.

After graduating from kindergarten in May, he will be a first grader at Wilcox Elementary School in the fall, joining his adoring older sister, Audryn, who will be in fifth grade.

On a typical weekend on Kauai, you can find Ander and his family at the soccer fields, seeking out new places to eat, and soaking up the gorgeous island weather.

“We love going to the beach on a beautiful Kauai summer day. Ander loves the water! He just can’t wait to dunk his adorable little face in the salt water as he swims and splashes around,” says Justin. “Ander and Audryn giggle constantly as they play with the sand between their toes with not a care in the world. This is their happy place and a reminder of how lucky they are to be born and raised on Kauai.”

“We also love to travel. Our most recent adventure took us to Tokyo, where we explored the sights and ate our way through its unique districts and neighborhoods,” adds Traci. “The kids enjoyed the bright lights and busy streets — the quick pace was an exciting change to what we are used to at home.“

In Tokyo, Ander and his sister quickly learned how to put the metro ticket into the machine and then retrieve it as they passed through the gate. Audryn tested out the Japanese words she knows, with a simple “arigato” and respectful bow being her go-to greeting.

Ever sweet and loving Ander, who has Down Syndrome, never hesitates to greet passers-by with his contagious smile and eager wave. Although most people in Japan were probably not used to that, they couldn’t help but smile and wave back. Ander taught the rest of his family that even in a different culture where people don’t speak the same language, kindness breeds kindness.

We all have something to learn from Ander: Smile and wave at strangers. Share your joy. Spread kindess. Be like Ander.

Fun Programs for Keiki to Kupuna with Special Needs

Opportunities abound throughout Kauai for people with special needs to participate in fun and interesting events in the busy summer months.

(KORE) Kauai Ocean Recreation Experience allows people with special needs to enjoy the ocean once a month with the help of trained staff. KORE meets next to the pavilion in Hanalei. For more information, call 808-651-6416 or visit korekauai.com.

HEALING HORSES serves children and adults with special needs through the magic provided by partnering with horses, on the ground and in the saddle. Located on the Kapa’a Bypass Road. Call 808-634- 3896 or email hhkauai@gmail.com

Kauaʻi Inclusive Playground at Lydgate Park has approximately 7,500 square feet of play structures designed for equitable play. It is fully accessible for users of all ages and abilities. The playground addresses the physical, social, emotional, sensory, communication, and cognitive concerns that children living with developmental disabilities encounter.

Special Olympics Kauai are going strong through the summer months! For more info, email specialolympicskauai@msn.com.

People with disabilities can access and enjoy our beautiful island beaches! All terrain wheelchairs are available at select beaches on Kauai.

For more information, contact the County of Kauai, Dept. of Parks and Recreation, at (808) 241-4460.

CHOOSE PLANTS WISELY

Starting a garden or landscaping project?

Do some research and select plants and trees that require less watering.

Water has no substitute...conserve it! For more water saving tips, follow @KauaiDOW on Facebook or visit www.kauaiwater.org | 808-245-5400 SUMMER CONSERVATION TIPS: SUMMER CONSERVATION TIPS: RE-USE or RECYCLE BACKYARD POOL WATER!

If no chemicals were added to the pool water, reuse the water in your garden, landscaping or to give the dog a bath.

IS IT TIME TO WATER?

Adjust your irrigation system timer or your routine to water your landscaping in the early morning hours or late evenings only to minimize evaporation. Remember to turn off automatic sprinklers during rainy weather.

kupuna

Caring for Kupuna in the Heart of Lihu’e

Connie Vidal (staff) & Arlene Matsunaga

The Importance of Caring for & Honoring Our Kupuna & Caregivers

In our culture, there exists a profound reverence for elders, rooted in the wisdom they impart and the sacrifices they’ve made. In the Hawaiian culture, this respect is embodied in the concept of “kupuna,” representing not just by age but a revered status earned through a lifetime of experience and contribution. Similarly, caregivers, often unsung heroes, dedicate themselves to the well-being of others, embodying compassion and selflessness.

First and foremost, caring for our kupuna is a matter of reciprocity and gratitude. They are the bearers of our heritage, the custodians of traditions, stories, and wisdom passed down through generations. By caring for them, we honor the sacrifices they made to raise families, build communities, and preserve our cultural

legacies. It’s a way of acknowledging our obligation to their contributions and ensuring that their knowledge and values endure beyond their lifetime. Moreover, caring for our kupuna fosters intergenerational bonds and strengthens the fabric of society.

In the Hawaiian culture, the concept of ‘ohana’ emphasizes the interconnectedness of family and community. By actively involving ourselves in the care of our elders, we reaffirm these bonds and create a sense of belonging and support across generations. This intergenerational exchange enriches both parties, as elders impart wisdom and perspective while younger generations offer energy, companionship, and assistance.

Gwen Teragawa & Amy Masui

Honoring caregivers is essential as they embody the essence of compassion and sacrifice. Whether they are family members, professionals, or volunteers, these individuals dedicate their lives to supporting those with needs, often at the expense of their own well-being.

Recognizing their contributions not only validates their efforts but also encourages others to embrace caregiving as a noble and honored role within society.

imperative that transcends cultural, social, and economic boundaries. It is an expression of gratitude, a reinforcement of intergenerational bonds, and a reflection of our societal values. By upholding the legacy of our elders and recognizing the invaluable contributions of caregivers, we not only enrich individual lives but also cultivate a more compassionate, resilient, and cohesive society for generations to come.

Valuing the work of caregivers emphasizes the importance of empathy, altruism, and communal responsibility.

Caring for caregivers is crucial to ensuring the continuity of care. The demands of caregiving can be physically, emotionally, and financially taxing, leading to stress, exhaustion, and neglect of one’s own needs. Let’s support, provide resources, and recognition to caregivers. Doing so, will allow them to sustain their vital role effectively.

Honoring caregivers sets a precedent for societal values and priorities. In a world often fixated on individual success and material gain, acknowledging and valuing the work of caregivers emphasizes the importance of empathy, altruism, and communal responsibility. It reshapes the narrative around success to include acts of service and compassion, inspiring future generations to prioritize care and compassion in their own lives.

Caring for our kupuna and honoring caregivers is a moral imperative that will elevate the well-being of our society. As our population ages, this demand for caregiving services will continue to rise.

Caring for and honoring our kupuna and caregivers is a multifaceted

Ohana Pacific Health enhances the lives of kupuna and their caregivers by providing comprehensive support and resources. They offer specialized healthcare services tailored to the needs of elders, including skilled nursing, rehabilitation, adult day health and home health services. By prioritizing operational excellence and genuine care, they aim to ensure the well-being of each individual. Ohana Pacific Health fosters a supportive environment that honors the contributions of kupuna and caregivers alike, enriching their lives with comfort and compassion.

Take Control of Your Health: 6 Steps to Prevent a Fall

Every 13 seconds, an older adult is seen in an emergency department for a fall-related injury.

Many falls are preventable. Stay safe with these tips!

Find a good balance and exercise program

Find a good balance and exercise program. Look to build balance, strength, and flexibility. Contact your local Area Agency on Aging for referrals. Find a program you like and take a friend.

Talk to your health care provider

Ask for an assessment of your risk of falling.

Share your history of recent falls

Talk to your health care provider. Ask for an assessment of your risk of falling. Share your history of recent falls.

Regularly review your medications with your doctor or pharmacist.

Regularly review your medications with your doctor or pharmacist

Make sure side effects aren’t increasing your risk of falling. Take medications only as prescribed.

Get your vision and hearing checked annually and update your eyeglasses

Get your vision and hearing checked annually and update your eyeglasses. Your eyes and ears are key to keeping you on your feet.

Keep your home safe.

Remove tripping hazards, increase lighting, make stairs safe, and install grab bars in key areas.

Talk to your family members

Talk to your family members.

Enlist their support in taking simple steps to stay safe. Falls are not just a seniors’ issue.

Ongoing Senior Programs

Classes and activities are scheduled at community neighborhood centers throughout the island.

Some of the classes available include: art, aquatics, ukulele, hula, bonsai, cultural dances, exercise, hanafuda, weaving, quilting, line dance, sewing, crafts, and painting.

If you are interested in joining our senior program, contact the Neighborhood Center closest to you.

Kekaha NC 337-1671

Waimea NC 338-1122

Kaumakani NC 335-5770

Koloa NC 742-1313

Lihue NC 241-6857

Kilauea NC 828-1421

HHSC KAUA‘I REGION

HHSC KAUA‘I REGION

Kaua‘i Veterans Memorial Hospital (KVMH)

Kaua‘i Veterans Memorial Hospital (KVMH)

Samuel Mahelona Memorial Hospital (SMMH)

Samuel Mahelona Memorial Hospital (SMMH)

Kaua‘i Region Clinics

Kaua‘i Region Clinics

E Pono M a u Loa ~ Alw a ys Ex c el l ent

E Pono M a u Loa ~ Alw

The Clinic at Waimea 4643B Waimea Canyon Drive Waimea, HI 96796 (808) 338-8311

The Clinic at Waimea 4643B Waimea Canyon Drive Waimea, HI 96796 (808) 338-8311

The Clinic at Port Allen 4353 Waialo Road

WE ARE Kaua`i’s comprehensive health care

WE ARE Kaua`i’s comprehensive health care

Kaua‘i Veterans Memorial Hospital

Kaua‘i Veterans Memorial Hospital

4643A Waimea Canyon Drive

Waimea, HI 96796 (808) 338-9431

4643A Waimea Canyon Drive Waimea, HI 96796 (808) 338-9431

‘Ele‘ele, HI 96705 (808) 335-0579

The Clinic at Port Allen 4353 Waialo Road ‘Ele‘ele, HI 96705 (808) 335-0579

The Clinic at Kalāheo 4489 Papalina Road Kalāheo, HI 96741 (808) 332-8523

The Clinic at Kalāheo 4489 Papalina Road Kalāheo, HI 96741 (808) 332-8523

HHSC KAUA‘I REGION

Kaua‘i Veterans Memorial Hospital (KVMH)

Samuel Mahelona Memorial Hospital (SMMH)

Kaua‘i Region Clinics

DON’T-MISS KAUA’I SUMMER EVENTS

1. OBON DANCE & FESTIVAL

See schedule on page 21. Center stage features the bon odori, Japanese folk dancing to lively music. The dancers line in concentric circles around a raised platform (yagura), dressed in colorful kimonos, yukatas and happi coats, all under a canopy of lanterns. Cultural performances will be held on Friday and Saturday evenings. Food and game booths abound. Guests are encouraged to participate!

2. HEIVA I KAUAI

August 3-4, 9am-5pm

Kapa’a Beach Park

heivaikauai.com

Participants from Hawaii, the Mainland and Japan, ranging in age from toddler to elder, perform solo and group competition and exhibition dances, portraying legends and stories of Tahiti. Plus, craft and food vendors. Admission: $8 at the door; children 12 and under, free.

3. KAUA’I HOSPICE 4TH OF JULY CONCERT IN THE SKY

Thursday, July 4, 3:30-9:30pm

Vidinha Stadium Soccer Field

kauaihospice.org

Enjoy craft vendors, keiki fun zone, Ono Grinds and entertainment, then settle in for Kauai’s largest fireworks show — a spectacular 3D display choreographed to a lively musical soundtrack. Admission: adults $10; children $5; under 5, free.

4. KAUA’I POKE FEST

Saturday, June 8, 2-7pm

Kōloa Landing Resort KauaiPokeFest.com

Sam Choy — celebrity chef and the godfather of poke — and 20 other professional and amateur chefs create unique and delicious poke dishes, including more than 600 pounds of fresh ahi poke.

5. AMERICA’S MOST WEST FREEDOM FEST

Wednesday, July 3, 4-10:30pm

Pacific Missile Range Facility, Barking Sands

facebook.com/PmrfMoralWelfare pmrf.greatlifehawaii.com

Great music, food vendors and of course the best fireworks show on the island combine for this free family-friendly. Adults must have a valid US government-issued ID to enter. Under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Food and drinks will be available for purchase, cash only.

6. KŌLOA PLANTATION DAYS

July 19—28

Kōloa and Po‘ipū

KoloaPlantaionDays.com

More than 20 events over 10 days featuring local food, music, crafts, keiki rides, silent auction, hula, talk story, family fun run and the perennial favorite parade through Old Koloa Town. See more on pages 12-13.

THE PRECIOUS PARKS OF THE TOTAL NUMBER OF NATIONAL PARKS IN HAWAII

1. Ala Kahakai

National Historic Trail Big Island

2. Haleakalā National Park Maui

10k ft ABOVE SEA LEVEL

3. Hawai‘i Volcanoes

National Park Big Island

4. Honouliuli

National Historic Site Oahu

Not yet open to the public

5. Kalaupapa

National Historical Park Molokai

6. Kaloko-Honokōhau

National Historical Park Big Island

7. Pearl Harbor

NATIONAL MEMORIAL Oahu

8. Pu‘uhonua o Hōnaunau

National Historical Park Big Island

9. Pu‘ukoholā Heiau

National Historic Site Big Island

Scan this code to purchase prints of these or any of the beautiful, iconic NPS posters. They're keepsakes!

NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGES ON HAWAII

Home to the Daniel K. Inouye Kīlauea Point Lighthouse, Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge is one of the best places in the state to view seabirds, as well as the Nēnē goose (the Hawaiian state bird).

250 PLANTS ARE NATIVE TO AND FOUND ONLY ON KAUAI,"THE GARDEN ISLAND"

hawaiiaN state parks

state parks oN kauai

Ha'ena

Home to several ancient sites like sea caves thousands of years old. Plus: Limahuli Garden and gorgeous beaches to swim and snorkel.

Koke'e

A 4,345-acre outdoor playground with 45 miles of hiking trails through native forests. Plus: fishing, camping (rustic cabins), birding and more!

Polihale

One of the biggest beaches on Hawaii. Not for swimming, but perfect for walks, beachcombing, lounging and marveling at the Na Pali Coast.

Waimea Canyon

One of the best places to see Waimea Canyon, the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific." Plus: Iliau Nature Loop showcases endemic vegetation.

Wailua River

Perfect spot for adventurers and outdoorsy families to enjoy waterbased activities like boating, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.

BY EDIE MANN

LIFEGUARDED BEACHE S

1. Hanalei Bay

2. Po‘ipū Beach

3. ‘Anini Beach

4. Mākua Beach (aka Tunnels Beach)

5. Kē‘ē Beach

BOTANICAL GARDENS

1. Na ‘Āina Kai Botanical Gardens & Sculpture Park

2. Allerton Garden

3. Princeville Botanical Gardens

4. Smith’s Tropical Paradise

5. Limahuli Garden & Preserve

CAMPGROUNDS

1. Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park

2. Kōke‘e State Park

3. ‘Anini Beach

4. Polihale State Park

5. Kumu Camp

HIKING TRAILS

1. Waimea Canyon Trail to Waipo‘o Falls

2. Kuilau Ridge Trail

3. Nounou Trail (aka Sleeping Giant)

4. Māhā‘ulepū Heritage Trail

5. Wai Koa Loop Trail (aka Stone Dam)

SURF SPOTS

GOLF COURSES

SNORKELING SPOTS

FARM TOURS

TRIPS the whole family is sure to love

1. Take a Shelter Dog on a Field Trip

Are you bored at home? Do you need to get out of the house? Could you use the companionship of a four-legged friend? How does it work? Schedule a pickup time, let our staff match you with an appropriate field trip buddy, and then off you go! A non-refundable donation of $40 is requested to help defer the cost of running the field trip program and making sure all our amazing Kaua’i dogs have everything they need while waiting for their forever homes.

Where can I take my dog for the day? Kauai Humane Society will advise you where to go on your adventure, depending on your dog buddy and the weather.

DAILY HOURS

Pick up: 10 am – Noon

Return anytime before 5 pm kauaihumane.org/service/field-trips/

2. Sway on the Hanapepe Swinging Bridge

Children love this suspension bridge because it rocks and swings and can be a little scary at times. This bridge is the real deal though—a much bigger thrill than the miniature playground versions.

3. Check out the Na ‘Aina Kai Botanical Gardens

Visiting the Na ‘Aina Kai Botanical Gardens in Kilauea should be on your list of family-friendly, non-beachy Kauai activities.

Reservations required.

The lush gardens are gorgeous and offer a splendid variety of exotic flowers in all colors, shapes and sizes. The 120+ bronze sculptures are also a bit of a surprise.

Kids, especially, are drawn to the 16-foot “Jack and the Beanstalk” fountain in the children’s garden. Check out naainakai.org/splash-play/.

The venue offers tour options including a self-guided walking tour, a seasonal bird tour, a family tour and several others.

4. Hike up the Sleeping Giant

Enjoy the incredible view from the top of the Sleeping Giant. The Sleeping Giant Trail (Nounou East Trail) is a 3.5 mile (roundtrip) moderate hike that climbs up Nounou Mountain.

Looking up from the town of Kapa’a below, the mountain looks like a giant sleeping on its back, hence its name.

The trail ascends gently through forested mountains at first, then rises quite steeply as you start to switchback up the mountain. There’s a bit of rock scrambling at the end, and the trail can be muddy and slippery in places.

To access the trailhead, follow the Haleilio Road to the parking lot, found almost at the end.

5. Ride an Antique Train at Kilohana Plantation

The Journey: You’ll be entertained and educated by our fun-loving conductors and amazed by our rows of over 50 varieties of fruit tree orchards, fruit fields, vegetable gardens, rare and exotic tropical flowers, forest, plants, hardwood trees, and animal pastures with donkeys, goats, sheep, horses, cattle, ducks, geese, and even a herd of wild pigs. The train will stop; you can disembark and feed our wild pigs, goats and sheep. kilohanakauai.com/plantation-train

6. Crawl into the Makauwahi Cave

One of the most interesting Kauai adventures – especially for keiki!

Discovered by paleoecologists David Burney and Lida Pigott Burney in 1992, the Makauwahi Cave Reserve is a 17-acre ancient archaeological site that’s home to fossils and the largest limestone cave in Hawaii.

You must bend down to enter the cave entrance. But after crawling a few feet, you can stand up inside a fabulous, open, garden-like amphitheater, where you’ll discover two caves.

The North Cave has a freshwater lake.

Free tours are given by volunteer guides between 10 am and 4 pm daily. cavereserve.org

More pets get lost on July 4th than any other day of the year.

Keep your dog safe this Independence Day with these 8 tips.

1

Be sure your dog is wearing an up-to-date and visible ID tag on her collar at all times.

Take a current photo of your dog, just in case.

3

2

Exercise your dog early in the day before parties begin.

4 During cookouts, ask guests to play with your dog away from flames.

5 Keep charcoals, fireworks, sparklers and glow sticks far from curious canines.

7

6 Keep dog treats on hand for those who want to give your dog food.

Leave your dog at home with a frozen stuffed treat during the fireworks.

8 If your dog is afraid of loud noises, leave gentle music playing to cover the fireworks.

Banana Split How to Make a

This classic ice cream dessert starts with a fresh banana (cut in half vertically) and three scoops of ice cream (vanilla, chocolate and strawberry). Then add fresh sliced pineapple and strawberries. Top with chocolate syrup. And don’t forget whipped cream, nuts and the cherry on top!

GRAB A SPOON & DIG IN!

Top 5 Kauai

BY MONTY DOWNS, M.D.

In the 50 years I worked in the Wilcox Hospital Emergency Room, I witnessed more tragedies than many people can even imagine. The fact that many of these tragedies were preventable — with a little care and common sense — makes them all the more heartbreaking.

Based on my experience, here are the top 5 things that I would never do — in no particular order. I’ll leave out the traumatic details, but I’m sure the points are still clear.

1I would never drive under the influence of alcohol.

Even just one alcoholic beverage can reduce visual function, coordination, concentration, and reflexes. It’s not just the danger to yourself that can lead to terrible tragedy; it’s the danger that you put others in when you weave across the center line. The same holds true for texting and driving (“distracted driving”), which statistics now show is six times more likely to cause an accident than driving under the influence.

2

I would never take any street drug that could possibly be laced with fentanyl. The most terrible tragedies (i.e. untimely deaths) have

occurred because of either unwitting or intentional use of this drug, which shuts down the breathing drive center in our brain.

Fentanyl is roughly 50 times more potent than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine. Victims are found sleeping — but they’re not sleeping, they’re deceased. This may be a peaceful exit for them but it’s a horror to surviving family and friends; it leaves an ache forever. Police now carry Narcan (a drug that can reverse fentanyl’s deadly effect).

3I would never swim where there isn’t a lifeguard on duty. I am passionate about ocean safety! The way I like to put it is this: Swim where you can see a lifeguard, which means a lifeguard can see you. Kauai has some of the most beautiful beaches and shorelines in the world, but unless you’re a highly proficient and knowledgeable ocean swimmer, I would not risk the danger of the open ocean without a lifeguard present. I will also add I would never take my eyes off a child while at a beach or swimming pool. Kauai has averaged 10 drownings each year since records started being kept in the 1970s. 10 drownings a year for 50 years = 500 drowning deaths during my career here. Painful.

Safety Rules

4I would never dive into shallow or unknown waters. These scenarios have led to tragedies that are at top on my list of unforgettable traumatic memories.

Kauai waters have submerged rocks, reefs, and other obstructions that can result in devastating and irreversible injuries to the spinal cord. Similar scenario with swimming pools.

5I would never go hiking in an unknown area without educating myself on the hazards and possible dangers. This one almost cost me my own life many years ago when I was hiking. I took a misstep and fell 40 feet straight down. The man (or woman) upstairs was smiling on me that day: I landed on a patch of grass. My head didn’t hit a rock, although I did sustain some injuries.

Many have not been so lucky. Kauai has beautiful mountains and cliffs, but the hiking conditions can be wet. slick, muddy and unstable. Flash floods can occur if there are rains deep in the mountains, even as the weather seems clear on a hike where you have crossed a stream outward bound, only to find a raging and potentially deadly torrent on your homeward hike.

My guess is that most of us can think of a time or two when we have broken one or more of these rules. I would also guess that others might put forth a very different list of Top 5 safety rules based on their own experiences and beliefs (e.g., Don’t eat processed foods. Get immunized. Don’t get immunized. Eat meat. Don’t eat meat. Exercise.).

My years as a Kauai ER physician have given me the opportunity to see first-hand, over decades, how careless or uninformed behavior and a “that could never happen to me” mindset can turn peoples’ lives and families upside down.

Tragedy can strike the best of us, no matter who we are. We can, however, practice diligence when it comes to our own safety and that of our loved ones, thereby increasing our chances of enjoying life to the fullest on this beautiful island that some of us call home and others love to visit.

Please keep my Top 5 in mind this summer, and ask your friends and loved ones to keep them in mind, as well. Have a great summer in this leap year, and stay safe!

Become a KAUA‘I MADE

Member and display the Kaua’i Made seal that sets you apart from others!

Kaua’i Made is the official program of the County of Kaua‘i to identify and promote products made on Kaua’i, by Kaua’i people and are authentic to Kaua‘i.

WHAT YOU GET AS A MEMBER

• Access to the Kaua’i Made website for your products

• $15,000 of advertising yearly to push buyers to the website to find you

• Use of the Kaua’i Made logo

• Access to Members Only Kaua’i Made events

• Annual Kaua’i Made Shopping Guide Placement

• 5,000 Distributed around the island each year

• Periodic invites to resort group functions

• Access to Kaua’i Made Stickers, Tags... for cost

• Office of Economic Development business watch and notification list for business education and support programs

To learn more about becoming a member, go to our webite at kauaimade.net or call (808) 241-4946

MARK YOUR CALENDAR!

Kukui Grove: Saturday, May 11th for Mothers Day

Grove Farm Craft Fair: Saturday, June 1st

Sheraton Coconut Beach: Last Friday's of the month

Holly Jolly Holiday Fair: Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024

The biggest Kaua‘i Made product event of the year!

Visit our website for details or call (808) 241-4946

• Serving PreK-12th grade students from Lihue - Haena

• Two new classroom buildings on our spacious 10-acre campus

•Loving teachers in a safe, family-oriented environment

• PreK-12th grade fully accredited

• Shuttles from Kapaa available

Selling Your Home with Leah Ragsac, Kauai Realty

Selling your home is a significant milestone, often accompanied by a mix of emotions—from excitement about the next chapter to nostalgia for cherished memories. As a first-time home seller, the process can feel daunting, but you can make the best of it with careful planning and guidance.

KNOW THE MARKET. Familiarize yourself with the local real estate market and understand current trends. Consult a real estate agent who can provide valuable insights and assist in setting a competitive yet realistic price for your home.

PREPARE YOUR HOME. Preparing your home for sale is crucial in attracting potential buyers. Decluttering and depersonalizing spaces can help buyers envision themselves living in the property. Simple upgrades or repairs can also enhance the appeal of your home and potentially increase its value.

MARKET YOUR PROPERTY WELL. Effective marketing plays a pivotal role in reaching a broader audience of buyers. Utilize traditional and digital platforms to showcase your home and highlight its selling points. Professional photography and staging can significantly elevate your listing.

CHOOSE A GOOD AGENT. offers start rolling in, carefully evaluate each one with your real estate agent. Consider factors beyond just the sale price, such as contingencies and closing timelines. Negotiating terms that align with your goals and priorities is key to a successful transaction. Work closely with your real estate agent and stay proactive throughout the process. This will help mitigate potential challenges and ensure a smooth closing.

Selling your home can be an exciting journey for growth and new beginnings. It can also be an emotional transition, so be sure to work with an agent mindful of your situation. Arm yourself with knowledge, enlist professional support, and you can navigate the process with confidence and achieve a successful sale!

*Large eWaste such as commercial printers and industrial electronics may be s ubject to packing and handling fee, call 245-6919 for more information

Agriculture and Water: How Ancient Engineering Brought Water to the People

DID YOU KNOW?

There are more than 40 miles of legacy water infrastructure on Grove Farm lands that are critical to our island’s sustainability?

For nearly 160 years, we have operated, maintained and enhanced these systems — which include reservoirs, dams, flumes and a variety of waterways — to ensure an ample supply of clean, fresh water for our community. The Līhuʻe water system provides potable drinking water to roughly 20% of the island’s residents and delivers irrigation water for agriculture and public uses.

As part of our ongoing maintenance, we recently repaired a wooden flume that spans across a valley, delivering water from the Hanamaʻulu system to Līhuʻe. This 150-foot wooden structure required extensive work, including shoring up the foundation, replacing braces, and implementing high-density tubing to ensure a smooth flow of debris-free water.

Grove Farm Market & Craft Fairs

KŌLOA FIELD SYSTEM: ANCIENT ENGINEERING

As our community works together to ensure a sustainable future, Grove Farm is inspired by examples from our island’s history that show responsible land stewardship.

In sunny Kōloa, where the weather is dry, the soil is rocky, and lava tubes crisscross underground, native Hawaiians found genius ways to irrigate their agricultural fields to keep their ahupuaʻa thriving. Back in the late ’70s and early ’80s, evidence was unearthed that revealed the Kōloa Field System, dating back to 1400 A.D. This ancient wonder spans a whopping 1,000 acres and was a game-changer, bringing much-needed water to the area.

QUEEN EMMA’S COTTAGE IN LĀWA‘I VALLEY

By Hank Soboleski

“During Queen Emma’s sojourn on Kaua‘i during December 1870 through April 1871, she resided at Mauna Kilohana, which was located within the 4,200-acre ahupuaʻa of Lāwa‘i deeded to her by her Aunt Hikoni.

Emma’s home at Mauna Kilohana was a frame house with a thatched roof situated atop the bluff on the Koloa side of Lāwa‘i Valley, overlooking Lāwa‘i Bay.

During her stay at Mauna Kilohana, Queen Emma asked William O. Smith and George Norton Wilcox to construct a water ditch to transform its arid pasturel and into a garden, and the trio then located an upland water source on horseback.

By March 11, 1871, water reached her house at Mauna Kilohana. Later in 1871, Emma leased her Lāwa‘i land to Duncan McBryde. In 1886, the year following her death, Duncan McBryde’s wife, Elizabeth McBryde, purchased the ahupuaʻa of Lāwa‘i for $5,000 at an auction held to pay off the queen’s debts.

Picture this: a thousand acres of sophisticated ʻauwai (irrigation ditches) that fed terraced loʻi kalo and other fields full of sweet potato, bananas, and native sugar cane.

Mastering the flow of water is no small feat, but the native Hawaiians were pioneers. They meticulously hand-dug a system, allowing water to gracefully descend from mauka to makai.

Given Kōloa’s less-than-ideal farming conditions with its limestone and rocky terrain, they discovered precious pockets of land with soft soil, aptly named kīpuka—nature’s untouched havens amidst the lava.

Lawai as it appeared during Queen Emma’s ownership

Their son, Alexander McBryde, was granted the lower lands of Lāwa‘i in 1899.

And, in the early 1900s, with sugarcane about to be planted at Mauna Kilohana, Alexander McBryde cut Emma’s house into sections, had it carefully lowered over the pali onto the valley floor, where it became known as Queen Emma’s Cottage, and lived in it for a time.

Queen Emma’s Cottage is now part of the National Tropical Botanical Garden.”

Queen Emma Cottage

According to the National Summer Learning Association, students who don’t participate in summer enrichment or educational activities lose about 22 percent of knowledge and skills gained during the prior school year.

This summer, help your child retain reading, writing and math skills gained over the school year by weaving learning into daily errands and interactive activities found in your own backyard.

Calculate tips. grocery shop.

Next time you and your family eat out, help your child determine what the tip should be.

Dictate your grocery list to your child and have him keep track of the list. As you shop, talk about prices, sales and healthy choices.

Visit a farmer’s market.

Peruse seasonal produce native to Kauai. Ask about fruits and veggies you and your kids have never heard of. And then, of course, try them!

Your child can learn more about her environment by cultivating her own fruits and vegetables. No room in your yard? No worries! Grow a container garden. Your child can take pictures and make notes in a daily gardening notebook, detailing the life cycle of the plants, problems encountered and how she worked to solve those issues.

grow a garden.

Cook together.

Involve your child in meal planning and preparation. If your child is old enough, put him in charge of a meal once a week. Following a recipe helps your child practice fractions and reading.

Play travel agent.

Thanks to the internet, your child can easily research your family’s vacation or a hometown field trip. Give her a list of information to gather about a specific place she wants to visit (location, cost, hours, etc.). Continue the learning when you arrive at your destination.

Apply what your child has learned in life science to your backyard. Talk about different birds, bugs, and how flowers and trees grow. Botanical gardens and nature outreach centers offer inexpensive classes and camps.

explore nature.

Got a bug or plant enthusiast? Have him grab the camera and go on a scavenger hunt for different species. When he’s done, he can make a digital presentation of his discoveries. Many elementary kids know how to use multimedia (even more than parents). They find it fascinating and think it’s fun.

go digital.

nurture creativity.

Art education enhances creative thinking, motor skills, and social and emotional development. Have a splatter paint party on canvas in your

backyard. Water color on textured paper. Make collages out of old magazines.

Summer is the perfect time to help your child find books and magazines that match her interests. Read together or start an informal book club with your child and a few friends. Schedule an afternoon to discuss the selection over milk and cookies.

read together. journal together.

Purchase an inexpensive journal or notebook that your child can personalize. Write a prompt or question at the top of the page. Take turns writing messages and stories back and forth.

Assign your child a weekly project — with a deadline — to help him practice time management skills. He can select and research a specific topic, create a digital slide show about what they learned and then present it to you or extended family.

ASSIGN PROJECTS.

Happy learning!

Find and circle the animal words hidden in the puzzle.

Mouthguards Prevent Injuries

By Michelle LeFever, Registered Dental Hygienist

Mouth, teeth, and tongue injuries constitute almost 30% of sports-related trauma, affecting up to half of adolescents who play sports.

A simple and effective way to prevent up to 90% of these injuries is ensuring your child wears a well-fitted custom-made mouthguard. Contrary to misconceptions, mouthguards do not hinder performance; instead, studies suggest custom mouthguards may enhance performance by improving oxygen intake and reducing mental stress related to fear of injury.

Whether it’s recreational or competitive sports, safeguard your young athlete by prioritizing the use of a mouthguard—it’s one of the simplest yet most impactful ways to prevent injury.

fun fact

Even famous pro athletes swear by mouthguards! Additionally, many insurance plans cover custom-made sports mouthguards for kids. Consult with a dentist to learn more.

WE OUR PATIENT COMMUNITY!

We're here for you. Dr. Lutwin, Dr. Rita, Dr. Stebbins, and our friendly staff are here to make your ohana’s dental care manageable and comfortable.

Payment Options:

Make an appointment today at (808) 332-9445

Services:

• Most major insurances accepted

• Interest-free CareCredit monthly financing

• In-office payment plans

• No insurance? Our membership plan offers preventative services and 20% off other treatments.

• Family Dentistry

• Dental Implants

• Teeth Whitening

• Invisalign

• Porcelain Veneers

• Tooth Replacement

We love our community! We support local nonprofits, provide school presentations, and host the annual Halloween Candy Buy Back and Keiki Art Contest.

BACK TO SCHOOL bash

Early Head Start & Head Start

A FREE comprehensive program of early learning, health, and family well-being available to children and families in order to promote school readiness.

KAPA‘A

4886 Kawaihau Rd, Kapaa, HI 96746

KŌLOA

3223 Poipu Rd, Koloa, HI 96756

LIHUE

3343 Kanakolu St, Lihue, HI 96766

Preschool and infant/toddler program

KEKAHA

8563 Elepaio Rd., Kekaha, HI 96752

EARLY HEAD START

Early Head Start provides a Home Visiting program island-wide for Kaua‘i!

“Every

— Bryant McGill

Model: Ander Ihara | Photo by Todd Fuerte Photography

Does your keiki have a dental home?

808.822.9393 | fx: 808.821.1384

drbairdoffice@gmail.com

www.hokusmiles.com

Kapaa Site: Monday-Friday 4-976 Kuhio Hwy Kapaa, HI 96746

Lihue Site: Friday Only 4414 Kukui Grove St Suite 103, Lihue, HI 96766

Take your keiki to a pediatric dentist by age one

Accepting new keiki patients

Focus on preventive care

Hospital sedation available

Accepts most dental insurance and Medicaid

A few minutes of your time can help local mothers and babies be safer and healthier.

Check your mail for the Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) Survey from the Hawaiʻ

Patricia Sanchez, DDS & Kanoe Baird, DMD Board Certified Pediatric Dentists & Moms

Four Things New Moms Should Know

By Dr. Gladys Frias Andaya, Kaua‘i Medical Clinic OB-GYN

When a little one arrives, new moms often put their own needs at the bottom of the to-do list. But making sure you pay attention to your own health is as important as taking care of everyone else.

“The ultimate goal is a healthy baby and healthy family,” says Dr. Gladys Frias Andaya, OB-GYN at Kaua‘i Medical Clinic.

3. Should I think about birth control after childbirth? Consider reviewing birth control options in third trimester. “Everyone’s needs are different,” Frias Andaya says. “A mom who is not breastfeeding may start to ovulate oneand-a-half to three months postpartum. Breastfeeding exclusively is not reliable birth control.” Frias Andaya also notes the ideal spacing between pregnancies is 18-to-24 months.

4. Is follow-up important after a highrisk pregnancy? “Some conditions, including gestational diabetes and

“Everyone’s needs are different. It’s important to keep your appointments so your doctor can guide you.”

A key part of that is knowing the truth. Here are the facts about four common misconceptions many women have about their health after birth.

1. Do I need to take supplements while breastfeeding? “Healthy moms who eat a well-balanced diet will have sufficient nutrients to support breastfeeding,” Frias Andaya says. She does recommend moms continue taking their prenatal vitamins.

2. Will postpartum blues pass? “Postpartum blues or mood disorders are common,” Frias Andaya says. Symptoms are usually temporary and may include sadness, crying spells, moodiness, irritability, anxiety and exhaustion. “If it continues longer than two weeks and your feelings get worse, contact your doctor.”

Visit WilcoxHealth.org to learn more.

preeclampsia, improve after birth but follow-up tests may still be needed to ensure there are no ongoing issues,” Frias Andaya says. “It is important to keep your appointments so your doctor can guide you.”

Attention Hawai‘i Families!

Attention Hawai‘i Families!

You may qualify for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC).

You may qualify for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC).

Do you have children under 5 years old?

Do you have children under 5 years old?

Are you pregnant or breastfeeding?

Are you pregnant or breastfeeding?

Do you receive SNAP benefits?

Do you receive SNAP benefits?

(Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)

(Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)

WIC provides nourishing supplemental food, nutrition education, breastfeeding support and referrals to health and social services.

WIC provides nourishing supplemental food, nutrition education, breastfeeding support and referrals to health and social services.

For more info and to apply for these programs: health.hawaii.gov/wic humanservices.hawaii.gov/bessd/snap

For more info and to apply for these programs: health.hawaii.gov/wic humanservices.hawaii.gov/bessd/snap

Become a Therapeutic Professional Parent to make a lasting impact on the youth of Kaua’i by opening your heart and home. We are seeking compassionate individuals to establish a therapeutic and nurturing environment, providing our youth with the essential skills of successful transition into adulthood.

Therapists & Interns. We are seeking dedicated individuals to join our dynamic team! Comprehensive training and mentorship await. Elevate your career with us and be part of the journey towards healing and growth.

Potential for licensure supervision if appropriate.

Tara Coyote’s books showcase the beauty and charm of Kaua’i, making them the perfect summer reading for your keiki!

Through lovable characters, colorful illustrations and powerful storytelling, Tara teaches young readers important environmental lessons such as the damage plastics are causing to our oceans.

Follow the adventures of Comanche the Wild Mustang from being born in the wilderness of Nevada to life as a therapy horse for humans and then traveling across the ocean to the tropical jungle paradise of Kaua’i!

PLUS: Learn what makes wild mustangs special and how they are being taken out of their natural habitats at an unprecedented rate.

Coloring book version also available!

Join Kaimana, the courageous Hawaiian mermaid — along with her merfriends — amidst the vibrant Hawaiian ocean ecosystem, as she creates a healthier future for the whales, coral reef, other marine animals and all of humanity.

PLUS: Learn about humpback and sperm whales: how they migrate, what their songs mean and the challenges they face, as well as the importance of coral reefs and how to reduce plastic consumption for a healthier, more sustainable ocean environment.

Help create a healthy future for every being on earth, whether human or animal.

SPECIAL BOGO DEAL FOR KFM READERS!

Buy one book at regular price and receive half off a second book!

Must mention Kauai Family Magazine and must purchase directly from TaraCoyote.com (not Amazon, etc.) to get BOGO deal. TaraCoyote.com

BENEFITS OF

Planting and growing flowers and vegetables can be a rewarding experience for your entire family, providing a fantastic opportunity to set aside electronics and spend quality time outside in the sunshine.

Gardening promotes family bonding. The best family bonding happens when everyone is working toward a shared goal, like growing the prettiest flowers or the tastiest carrots. You will will enjoy watching your kids explore new sensations as they dig in the dirt, plant seeds, and water as needed.

Kaua’i farmer, Hannah Huang, harvests vegetables with her protéges Lexi and Caspian.

BY SARAH LYONS

Gardening is educational. Gardening is a great way to teach your kids about nature (how plants grow), science (names of plants) and math (how far apart to plant seeds). You can check out books from the library, watch videos on the internet or even visit a community garden to learn more about plants and flowers.

WITH KIDS

You may also consider starting a compost bin. The compost provides vital nutrients for your garden and the composting process can help teach kids about the impact waste has on the environment.

Gardening teaches life lessons. In the process of planting and caring for your garden, your child will learn the importance of patience, the value of hard work and the responsibility of tending to the the garden each day. They will be rewarded with the fruits (or vegetables) of their labor. The best life lessons often happen when you don’t know you are learning them.

Gardening encourages healthy eating habits. The best reason to plant and take care of a garden is the reward of tasting your crop. Kids who may not otherwise try tomatoes or bell peppers are much more likely to give them a chance if they have planted, cared for and watched them grow themselves. Cultivating a love of eating fruits and vegetables at a young age is a great way to encourage a lifelong healthy lifestyle.

While planting and caring for a garden may not always be easy, most people agree that it is well worth the effort when you are able to harvest your own fresh produce or flowers to enjoy. Not to mention the family bonding benefits!

Hanalei Taro’s Zesty Taro Hummus Wrap

A healthy and refreshing lunch or snack

CHEF’S TIP Leftover ingredients can be tossed together to make a quick and easy salad

You can find most of these ingredients at Grove Farm’s Puhi Park Farmers Market

Saturdays at 9:30am!

INGREDIENTS

1 container Hanalei Taro’s Zesty Taro Hummus

1 container Kauai Kunana Dairy Feta Cheese

1 package Sinaloa Flour Tortillas

Fresh local vegetables such as lettuce, tomatoes, sprouts and cucumbers

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Chop/dice/slice the local produce and crumble the feta cheese

2. Generously spread the Zesty Taro Hummus on a tortilla

3. Add desired fillings. Wrap and enjoy!

FROM NORTH TO WEST:

Waipa Farmers Market (Hanalei)

Tuesdays 3pm-5pm

Hale Halawai Farmers Market (Hanalei)

Saturdays 9:30am-Noon

Anaina Hou Farmers Market (Kilauea)

Saturdays 9:00am-Noon

Kealia Farm Market (Kealia)

Mondays & Fridays 3pm-6pm

Coconut Marketplace (Kapaa)

Tuesdays & Thursdays 9am-1pm

County Sunshine Market (Kapaa)

Wednesdays 3pm-4:30pm

Grove Farm’s Puhi Park Produce (Lihue)

Saturdays at 9:30am

Pau Hana Market Kukui Grove Center (Lihue)

Mondays 3pm-5:30pm

Shops at Kukuiula (Poipu)

Wednesdays 3:30pm-5:30pm

County Sunshine Market (Hanapepe)

Thursdays 3pm-4pm

Hale Puna Farmer’s Market (Waimea)

Thursdays 3:30pm-5:30pm

There’s no need t o leave Kaua‘i to receive quality maternity care. From low-risk (with minimal intervention) to high-risk pregnancies, we work with you t o honor your birthing plan. We even provide free childbirth classes and a lactation support group. If needed, we also offer an immediate and seamless connection t o maternal fetal medicine specialists at Kapi‘olani Medical Center for Women & Children.

There’s no need t o leave Kaua‘i to receive quality maternity care. From low-risk (with minimal intervention) to high-risk pregnancies, we work with you t o honor your birthing plan. We even provide free childbirth classes and a lactation support group. If needed, we also offer an immediate and seamless connection t o maternal fetal medicine specialists at Kapi‘olani Medical Center for Women & Children.

There’s no need t o leave Kaua‘i to receive quality maternity care. From low-risk (with minimal intervention) to high-risk pregnancies, we work with you t o honor your birthing plan. We even provide free childbirth classes and a lactation support group. If needed, we also offer an immediate and seamless connection t o maternal fetal medicine specialists at Kapi‘olani Medical Center for Women & Children.

There’s no need t o leave Kaua‘i to receive quality maternity care. From low-risk (with minimal intervention) to high-risk pregnancies, we work with you t o honor your birthing plan. We even provide free childbirth classes and a lactation support group. If needed, we also offer an immediate and seamless connection t o maternal fetal medicine specialists at Kapi‘olani Medical Center for Women & Children.

OB-GYN services are also available at the KMC Kapa‘a clinic.

OB-GYN services are also available at the KMC Kapa‘a clinic.

OB-GYN services are also available at the KMC Kapa‘a clinic.

OB-GYN services are also available at the KMC Kapa‘a clinic.

WilcoxHealth.org/Maternity

WilcoxHealth.org/Maternity

WilcoxHealth.org/Maternity

WilcoxHealth.org/Maternity

www.kauaifamilymagazine.com