So Much To Say ‘Thank You’ For

There is so much to be grateful for each and every day on Kauai, but Thanksgiving is such a marvelous reminder for us to slow down and count our blessings. I hope each and every one of us finds good reason to celebrate this Thursday …

The recent devastation of Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda) serves as an unfortunate reminder of just how precious life is and how much we have to be thankful for. My heart goes out to all the victims, family and friends of those who suffered. On Nov. 15, Kauai Filipino Chamber of Commerce, Kauai Filipino Community Council and Visayan Club of Kauai held a press conference and prayer vigil in observance and respect for those affected by this tragedy. The three organizations are working with American Red Cross, Salvation Army and other nonprofits to help with relief assistance, monetary donations and entry of humanitarian workers, medical workers and search-and-rescue teams. Visit redcross.org/hi/honolulu for more information, or contact any of the other organizations listed above …

We all know Thursday (Nov. 28) is the day most people will need to don clothes with expandable waistlines. However, for those ambitious enough to get in a workout before the big feast day, I recommend attending the annual Kapaa Turkey Trot. Registration for the 5K/10K walk, run or bike ride begins at 6:45 a.m. at Kapaa Beach Park and start time is 7:30 a.m. It’s free, and nonperishable food donations for Hale Ho’omalu or monetary donations to Kauai Path will be accepted. Call Randy Blake at 635-8823 for more information or visit kauaipath.org …

Women Artists of Kauai is holding its fifth annual Holiday Fine Art Festival Saturday (Nov. 30) from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Hanapepe United Church of Christ (HUCC). The festival will feature items such as original paintings, photography, pottery, sculpture and mixed media as well as food from Lanai Café and the music of Matthew Miller. A portion of the proceeds will be directed to HUCC’s Free Community Lunch program offered each Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The event is free. For more information, call Marionette Taboniar at 631-9173 or visit womenartistsofkauai.blogspot.com.

To find more great Kauai-made products for holiday exchange, visit National Tropical Botanical Garden’s Southshore Visitors Center in Poipu Sunday (Dec. 1) from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. for its Christmas in the Garden Craft Fair. There will be many activities including art workshops, a plant sale and entertainment for the keiki. Admission is free and nonperishable food items will be accepted. Call 742-2433 for more information …

Since it seems to be the week for craft fairs, also consider stopping by Kauai Beach Resort Saturday (Nov. 30) from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for A Hawaiian Holiday Craft Fair presented by Malie Foundation. Funds generated will support the nonprofit organization, which includes the annual Kauai Mokihana Festival. Call Maka Herrod at 651-1868 for more information. What a great way to support our local businesses.

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