Karleen Chinen
Commentary
Putting this issue together was quite a challenge because it combined Garden Island stories and general election ads.
On Nov. 6, Kaua‘i and Ni‘ihau voters will elect a new mayor to succeed outgoing Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr., who has reached his term limit.
Kaua‘i is at a crossroads: Its residents are feeling the environmental and social impacts of ever-increasing numbers of tourists who are drawn to the island because of its knockout natural beauty. Many are now asking themselves, “How much is too much?” Mayoral candidates Derek Kawakami and Mel Rapozo shared their perspectives on Kaua‘i’s future with contributing writer Richard Borreca for this issue.
Also in this issue, do we ever tire from meeting people who were once beneficiaries of kindness and who, later in life, had a chance to give back? Well, Kaua‘i son and former KHON TV anchor Ron Mizutani — the Hawaii Foodbank’s new president and CEO — is just that sort of person. Staff writer Jodie Ching brings you Ron’s story.
And, finally, the Herald’s Culture4Kids! columnists and Kapa‘a residents Carolyn Morinishi and her mother, Marian (Kurasaki) Kubota — who was born and raised in Kapa‘a —put together a special
Culture4Kids! Kaua‘i column about the island’s early agricultural days.
Of course, this issue was possible due to the support of the following individuals, businesses and organizations from Kaua‘i. We’re very grateful to them and hope you will support them. Mahalo nui loa, Kaua‘i!
Bill Fernandez Books
Esaki Produce
Dennis Fujimoto/The Garden Island
Kauai Island Finance, Inc.
Kauai Japanese Cultural Society
Kauai Soto Zen Temple
Derek Kawakami
Konohiki Seafoods
State Sen. Ron Kouchi
Lihue Fishing Supply
Ron Mizutani
Carolyn Morinishi and Marian (Kurasaki) Kubota
State Rep. Nadine Nakamura
Tommy Oi Land Surveyor
Mel Rapozo
