Outstanding Older Kaua‘i Residents Spotlighted During Special Recognition

The Agency on Elderly Affairs held a ceremony on Friday, May 6 at the Līhu‘e Civic Center, recognizing this year’s Outstanding Older Americans.

“Every May, as part of Older Americans Month we pay tribute to adults 65 years and older who continue to play vital, positive roles in our communities and have made exceptional contributions as family members, friends, mentors, volunteers, civic leaders, members of the workforce, and more,” said Kealoha Takahashi, executive for the Agency on Elderly Affairs. “We are grateful to recognize and honor our outstanding kupuna in person this year, together with their ‘ohana and friends.”

Timothy Albao, Sofia Castro, Martin Costales, Greg Iten, Coleen Kasperek, Aida Padilla-Cruz, Lydia Rebugio, Sonia Song, Jan Sueoka, and Sandy Takaezu are the 2022 Outstanding Older American nominees and were presented with certificates, lei, and custom-made awards.

This year’s theme, “Age My Way,” focuses on how older adults can age in their communities, living independently for as long as possible and participating in ways they choose.

Finance Director Reiko Matsuyama represented Mayor Derek S. K. Kawakami, who was unable to attend Friday’s ceremony, and proclaimed May as Older Americans Month. She also announced Timothy Albao and Coleen Kasperek as the two honorees who will represent Kaua‘i in the State of Hawai‘i’s recognition ceremony in June.

“Congratulations to all of this year’s nominees and mahalo for the incredible contributions you’ve made over the years,” said Mayor Kawakami in a statement. “We thank you all for supporting one another and continuing to inspire us in the ways you give back to our community and in your dedication to serve others before yourselves.”

Also in attendance were Council Chair Arryl Kaneshiro, Council Vice Chair Mason Chock, Councilmember Bernard Carvalho Jr., Councilmember Felicia Cowden, Councilmember Luke Evslin, Councilmember KipuKai Kuali‘i, Rep. Nadine Nakamura, and Paul Togioka who provided music for the ceremony.