The Kaua‘i 200 club, a group of local residents who support the island’s police and fire departments, held its annual dinner meeting last month at the Hanama‘ulu Restaurant and Cafe, according to a release. Kaua‘i 200 President Brian Fujiuchi, retired
The Kaua‘i 200 club, a group of local residents who support the island’s police and fire departments, held its annual dinner meeting last month at the Hanama‘ulu Restaurant and Cafe, according to a release.
Kaua‘i 200 President Brian Fujiuchi, retired chief of police, said Kaua‘i 200 supports the efforts of the Kaua‘i Police Department and the Kaua‘i Fire Department by providing funding for specific projects to enhance each department’s training as well as community projects.
Last year, Kaua‘i 200 honored Officer Elliott Kalani Ke as KPD’s officer of the year. Lt. Michael Contrades introduced Ke by recognizing two major cases he worked on.
Ke was recognized for his outstanding work in the narcotics section, where he was able to shut down a major crystal meth operation, which led to numerous arrests nationwide. The case also led to the civil forfeiture of vehicles, cash and real estate.
Ke was also recognized for his investigative work into a major marijuana growing operation on Kaua‘i, which also led to numerous arrests and seizures. Both cases had major impact on the availability of illicit drugs on Kaua‘i’s streets, the release said.
Deputy Fire Chief John Blalock presented the firefighter of 2007, Makalii Andrade, who was recognized for his tireless efforts to promote a healthy lifestyle by being physically fit and prepared for duty every day. He aspired to becoming a firefighter early in his life and prepared for it by maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
“(Andrade) epitomizes the standard that the fire department strives to instill in its men and women. He is not selfish to share and teach others experiences he learned both on and off the job. He is able to adjust to any given situation and willing to assist his fellow firefighters when the need arises,” the release said.
Andrade was recognized as a strong water safety advocate and enjoys his current assignment at the Hanalei station, where KFD is involved in many water rescues. He maintains that he is not a hero and deflects the recognition as such by recognizing the efforts of his fellow firefighters.
Both honorees and their wives were guests of Kaua‘i 200 for dinner and were each presented with a check for $100, the release said.
