Double Duty For Firefighters

Thanks to the Kauai Fire Department, whose firefighters were already busy extinguishing the blaze at Coco Palms, for putting a prompt stop to the flames behind my home sparked by firecrackers on Independence Day. I think the enthusiasm to celebrate the birth of America on Kauai is great, but when it endangers people’s lives and homes, I wish revelers would consider taking more precautions before lighting up. State laws actually prohibit people from using fireworks and firecrackers without a permit, and they are only allowed to be ignited in certain areas during designated hours on designated holidays. This particular fire was well beyond the limits of the law (and hours). Albert Kaui, KFD Battalion Chief, urges residents to remember to use fireworks safely and responsibly …

If you want to learn more about composting and vermiculture, join National Tropical Botanical Garden‘s nursery manager Ashly Trask on Wednesday (July 16) from 4 to 5 p.m. for a “build-your-own-worm-composter” workshop at NTBG’s Education Center in Kalaheo. The class requires pre-registration and costs $20 to attend. Email propagate@ntbg.org to sign-up …

Laughter is good for us. It promotes well-being and can lift our spirits. It’s also known to reduce stress and release feel-good endorphins. So why not join a group and laugh together? Well, now you can. Lucy Miller and Jeffrey Pears, mental health professionals and certified Laughter Yoga leaders, are offering free weekly laughter sessions on Mondays from noon to 1 p.m. beginning July 28 at Lihue Neighborhood Center.

Laughter group therapy uses a series of breathing, moving, stretching and laughing exercises for people of all ages. For more information contact Miller at drlucy@hawaii.rr.com or visit laughteryogakauai.com …

Sheraton Kauai Resort is helping out a good cause again by donating all of the proceeds collected from Table #53 at its restaurant RumFire to the Kauai Humane Society. Throughout the month of July, guests can enjoy spectacular sunset views at this Poipu Beach location while enjoying anything from cocktails and entrées to desserts and appetizers. All in support of Kauai’s only animal welfare organization^… Kauai Island Utility Cooperative is giving away three 60-watt equivalent LED bulbs (worth more than $30) to residents who visit Kukui Grove Center’s food court on July 25 and August 22 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. These light emitting diodes (LEDs) will help you save money on your electric bill as well as contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emission. LED bulbs use even less energy than CFLs (compact florescent lights) and certainly less than incandescents. In addition, they stay cool to the touch and are created to last more than 20 years! This is a no-brainer …

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