LIHU‘ E — Kaua‘i Adult Day Health Center Program Director Kaulana Mossman said Friday every person is special, as the day health center unveiled its recognition awards for the 40th year at its Kress Street location in the social hall of Lihu‘e Christian Church.
“Every one of you has contributed something that has led to life on Kaua‘i as we enjoy it, today,” Mossman said. “Big or small, those contributions helped shape who we are, and makes Kaua‘i the special place that everyone recognizes.”
The 40th annual Awards Day was hosted amid cold wind and rain outside in recognition of kupuna’s contributions, Aloha Spirit, and resilience.
Highlighting the morning, Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami appeared to present certificates to the three outstanding kupuna — Man of the Year, Woman of the Year, and Aloha Spirit — who, in 2022, positively impacted the Kaua‘i Adult Day Health experience for their fellow friends who attend the program.
“Their incredible lifetime achievements and positivity resonates throughout the center, and amongst their peers,” Mossman said. “It warms my heart to see all of the appreciation for kupuna. We are so lucky to have an amazing group of volunteers, and a wonderful Agency on Elderly Affairs team.”
Clifton Hayashi, a 22-year veteran, was announced the Man of the Year.
“A welcome addition to the Kaua‘i Adult Day ‘ohana for the past four years, Clifton’s sense of humor and his ability to make his fellow friends at the center laugh are priceless. To say that Clifton is a proud 22-year veteran of the United State Army would be an understatement,” Mossman said.
“He enjoys every opportunity to share his experience as a proud soldier and often speaks about his time in service. We are grateful that Clifton shares his time and days with our ‘Ohana, here.”
Imogene Beryl Richards, taking the time to serenade Kawakami with a special song, earned the announcement of Woman of the Year.
“Since her welcome nearly two years ago, Imogene has been an integral part of the Kaua‘i Adult Day Health ‘Ohana,” Mossman said.
“Imogene often shares her voice of an angel with her fellow friends at the center with a special liking to country hits and Elvis Presley songs that always warrants a huge applause from everyone in the program. We are grateful for her presence and ability to bring joy to our day through her song and positive demeanor.”
Priscilla Simao, married to the late Russell Simao Sr., is the mother of 10 children, 32 grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren, and loves to bake and “absolutely loves the color green.” She was named the recipient of the Aloha Spirit award.
“Priscilla always takes an active interest in the well-being of peers at the Kaua‘i Adult Day Health Center, ensuring that new clients feel welcome and part of the program ‘ohana. She has been a proud family member of the Kaua‘i Adult Day Health Center for nearly five years and enjoys the activities and camaraderie that each new day brings,” Mossman said.
“She can be heard greeting each client as they arrive each morning with a ‘Good morning,’ and is very active in program activities. Some of her favorite activities include striving for that 100 percent on spelling activities, exercising to Tai Chi, and participating in arts and crafts activities. It is for these reasons and so much more that we present the ‘Miss Aloha Spirit’ award to her.”
Mossman said at the Kaua‘i Adult Day Center, clients are encouraged to focus on the positive things in their life — the special moments, people, and indelible memories that bring special meaning to life.
“There is a Hawaiian proverb, or Olelo Noeau, Mai Pale I Ke A‘o A Ka Makua, that translates to ‘Do not set aside the teaching of your elders. What kupuna share is what we pass onto future generations,” the program director said.
“They arrive to program with an attitude of gratitude, often sharing special words of wisdom and insight. It is truly a gift to be able to engage with kupuna, daily. During this monumental 40th Awards Day celebration, we take a moment to recognize each of their lifetime achievements and contributions in the community, and beyond.”
•••
Dennis Fujimoto, staff writer and photographer, can be reached at 808-245-0453 or dfujimoto@thegardenisland.com.
