Island Fever Fix; Wilcox Goes Solar

on July 2, 2014 at 10:45 am

Wilcox Memorial Hospital’s new photovoltaic system. Photo courtesy Wilcox Hospital

Island fever sometimes sets in for me, and I miss the culture and activities that more-populated places have to offer. Admittedly, I crave the entertainment, food and fun that Kauai doesn’t often provide. That said, I am happy places such as Kauai Beer Company are there to satisfy those cravings. These are the kinds of spots this sleepy isle needs, especially regular events such as its Truck Stop Thursdays, for those of us who have an occasional “city life” itch to scratch …

Wilcox Memorial Hospital will be saving $220,000 this year in energy costs thanks to the anticipated completion of its second phase of a new photovoltaic system. The system, designed and installed by RevoluSun, is expected to save the hospital more than $7 million over the course of its life. The system also is intended to provide energy to approximately 1,100 homes each month, and will divert more than 465,000 barrels of oil and 435 million pounds of carbon dioxide from the island during its 35-year span. That sounds pretty great …

Kukuiula Outrigger Canoe Club is hosting a race in memory of Mike Balik Saturday (July 5) from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Kukuiula Small Boat Harbor. The race, which was rescheduled from its original date, costs $20 per paddler or $120 per crew. Divisions include men, women and mixed in various levels from novice to masters. The course will be announced on the day of the race. To register or for more information, visit kukuiulaoutrigger.com …

To take in this view, embark on a Princeville Makai Golf Club sunset tour. Photo courtesy Princeville Makai Golf Club

If you’re anything like me, golf does little to excite you. But I do enjoy the beauty and views that courses around the island have to offer. So it’s pretty neat that Princeville Makai Golf Club has introduced a “non-golfing” way for people to experience the vistas of the North Shore course at sunset. The course offers a Sunset Golf Cart Tour at 5 p.m. every day, which allows people to explore the course at their leisure in one of the club’s new electric carts. Guests may follow the paths while enjoying snacks and drinks (including champagne), which can be purchased at Makai Grill, and then watch the sun set over Hanalei Bay. While I can boast that I used to view the famed green flash here for free when I lived adjacent to the course, the cost to embark on this special self-guided journey is $40 per golf cart. For reservations, call 826-1863 …

A women’s basketball league is being formed on the island, co-sponsored by Kauai County Department of Parks and Recreation, as well as Kauai Basketball Referee Association. Women 18 and over are invited to participate. Games will be held Sundays at 5 p.m. at Kalaheo Neighborhood Center gym. The first game of the season is slated for Sunday (July 6). To sign up for the league, contact Sean Spriggs at 651-9105 or go to kbraofficials@gmail.com …

cocomidweek@gmail.com

Island Fever Fix; Wilcox Goes Solar

DIGITAL EDITION