Animal-protection Laws Lacking

on October 8, 2014 at 12:10 am

Kuana Torres performs Friday at Kauai Museum | Photo courtesy Mountain Apple Co.

My mother’s kitty was shot several years ago on Kauai. This incident was deeply disheartening, and I’ve wondered since then who could have done such a thing and, more importantly, why. This year in particular, kitties — not just feral cats but people’s family members — are severely suffering the wrath of people’s cruel, unchecked anger. I just learned that someone I know tragically lost their feline friend because a fellow human being felt they had the authority to take the life of another living creature (and in a horrifying manner much too appalling to describe). Animal abuse is something I simply don’t understand, and Hawaii fails at doing a good job protecting its furry and feathered creatures. We are currently on a shameful top five list as one of the worst states as far as animal-protection laws are concerned (Kentucky, Mississippi, Idaho and North Dakota are the others), according to MSNBC. I hope one day the future will be brighter for our critters …

Tai chi classes are now offered for seniors at Kaumakani Neighborhood Center on the Westside. Classes are held Mondays and Wednesdays from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m., and Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Sandra Matsumoto is the instructor for the Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention classes that may be practiced seated or standing. To sign up, call Matsumoto at 335-5770 or email kaumakaninc@kauai.gov …

My favorite place on the island, Kokee State Park, will host its annual Eo e Emalani I Alakai festival Saturday (Oct. 11) from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Hawaiian music and traditional chants will be performed at this free event. Festivities include a traditional royal procession with Queen Emma on horseback to arrive at noon at Kanaloahuluhulu Meadow. Crafts and exhibits also are part of the day’s activities. Call Michelle Hookano at 335-997-5022 or visit kokee.org for more information …

Kahu Chock blesses the new siren at Lydgate Beach Park while government officials look on: (from left) Wanda Shibata, Gov. Neil Abercrombie’s Kauai liaison; Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr.; Doug Mayne, administrator, Hawaii Emergency Management Agency; Ryan Hirai, deputy chief, HI-EMA/SCD Telecom Branch; Elton Ushio and Glenda Mogumi-Streufert, Kauai Civil Defense Agency; and Albert Chong, project lead, HI-EMA/SCD Telecom Branch. Photo courtesy Kauai County

Kuana Torres Kahele will entertain Friday (Oct. 10) from 10:30 a.m. to noon at Kauai Museum. The Na Hoku Hanohano Award-winning musician will serenade the public free of charge for his second performance in the museum’s Music of Kauai series. Visit kauaimuseum.org for more information …

The County of Kauai recently installed nine new civil defense sirens around the island as part of a statewide siren modernization project. This is good news, since the last time I heard a siren it sounded like it a sick chicken. Two new locations were set up in Aliomanu Estates and Isenberg Park, and sirens were replaced at Anini Beach, Kapaa High School, Kauai Veterans Cemetery, Lihue ballpark, Lydgate Beach Park, Shipwreck Beach and Vidinha Stadium. More importantly, this serves as a great reminder for us all to be prepared for emergencies. Remember the last time a hurricane threatened the island and stores were depleted of essential supplies and lines at gas stations were a sight to be seen? This can be avoided if we stay prepared — and there is no time like the present. cocomidweek@gmail.com

Animal-protection Laws Lacking

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