Community

While the longest federal government shutdown in the nation’s history ended last week, many residents continue to face financial strain as they await delayed pay and benefits.

Mark your calendars now for these special events, including the Kōloa Elementary School Holiday Bag Fundraiser and a Small Business Saturday celebration.

The first event starts today and will be held at the Līhu‘e Salvation Army, 4182 Harvey St., from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

A Celebration of Life for beloved community leader Melissa McFerrin Warrack will be held Thursday at the Kukui Grove Center in Līhuʻe.

National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week aims to educate the public and raise awareness about poverty and honor the many volunteers and service providers working to support those in need throughout Kaua‘i.

Residents, businesses and other organizations can bring unwanted or unneeded items for reuse — including clothing, small furniture, kitchen items, children’s toys, books and shoes — to Kaua‘i Resource Center in Līhu‘e from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 21.

World Toilet Day is observed globally to raise awareness about the challenges and serious health consequences associated with poor sanitation in developing countries.

Composting offers one of the most powerful ways to reduce waste, nourish soil, support island farmers and strengthen island resilience, especially with Kauaʻi’s landfill nearing capacity — and projected to run out of space in just 5 years.

“By connecting local farms directly to community food systems, the state can reduce its dependence on imports while ensuring that more families have access to fresh, nutritious, Hawaiʻi-grown produce,” said House Majority Caucus Leader Kirstin Kahaloa of Hawaiʻi Island.

The Kauaʻi County Council has unanimously advanced Bill 2976, which aims to ban the sale and distribution of disposable bodyboards in order to reduce plastic waste and safeguard local beaches.

The complex in Kapa‘a is the first affordable apartment acquisition of Department of Hawaiian Home Lands, offering a new initiative for those interested in a rent-to-own option.

The second and final phase of the Hanalei Water Line Improvements Project is set to begin by the end of the year.

Kaua‘i County Department of Parks and Recreation 0fficials anticipate water to be restored by the afternoon of Nov. 17, pending repairs.

Interested families can register their keiki beginning at 8 a.m. today; keep in mind that enrollment is limited and on a first-come, first-served basis, so sign up as soon as possible. It’s just $50 per child for a season of fun.

The canoes and their crews were greeted Thursday (Nov. 13) with a pōwhiri, or sacred formal Māori ceremony that was expected to celebrate for hours; following a little more than week of public engagements, the waʻa will take 6 months off to wait out South Pacific hurricane season before continuing their voyage.

Construction is expected to begin later this year, with completion anticipated in late 2026. Thursday’s event was akin to a kickoff for the expansion.

The 5-year plan is a key to strengthening community preparedness and reducing risks around Kaua‘i from natural disasters.

Community members and veterans gathered at Kauaʻi’s Hanapēpē Veterans Cemetery for a heartfelt Veterans Day tribute, honoring the contributions of military personnel.

The plan is meant to guide preservation priorities, partnerships and strategies around Hawaiʻi through 2034 — public input is vital to ensure it reflects the voices and values of Hawaiʻi residents.

Hawaiian Eye Center raising awareness and urging prevention during Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month.