AEA invites the public to the Older Americans Award ceremony May 15

Published on April 21, 2025

LĪHU‘E – The Agency on Elderly Affairs (AEA) celebrates Older Americans Month and invites the public to attend the Older Americans Award Ceremony, taking place on Thursday, May 15, at the Outrigger Kaua‘i Beach Resort and Spa in Līhu‘e.

The ceremony begins at 9 a.m. and is free and open to the public. A luncheon will follow at 11 a.m., and tickets may be purchased by calling the Agency on Elderly Affairs at 808-241-4470. The deadline to RSVP is May 9.

The 2025 theme, “Flip the Script on Aging,” aims to transform how society views, discusses, and approaches aging. It encourages individuals and communities to challenge stereotypes and dispel misconceptions, while also emphasizing the opportunities for purpose, exploration, and connection that aging can bring.

This year, ten older adults will be honored: Adeline Sasaki, Alice Baptista, Carol Saiki, Chad Pharis, Charlene Dorsey, Eugene Punzal, Gary Smith, Marga Goosen, Michael Brenner, and Wilma Chandler.

During the ceremony, one male and one female honoree will be selected to represent Kaua‘i at the State Recognition Ceremony on June 13, on O‘ahu.

Older Americans Month (OAM), established in 1963, is celebrated each May. Led by the federal Administration for Community Living (ACL), OAM is a time to honor the contributions of older Americans, highlight aging-related trends, and reaffirm our commitment to supporting older adults in our communities.

For more information about Older Americans Month, visit the official OAM website. To learn more about the Agency on Elderly Affairs, call (808) 241-4470, visit kauaiadrc.org, or email elderlyaffairs@kauai.gov.

From left to right: Eugene Punzal, Chad Pharis, Mike Brenner, Carol Saiki, Mayor Kawakami, AEA Executive on Aging, Emily Ishida,
Adeline Sasaki, Marga Goosen, Alice Baptista and Charlene Dorsey. Missing: Wilma Chandler and Gary Smith

If you require an auxiliary aid or service, an interpreter for non-English speakers, or another accommodation due to a disability, please contact the Agency on Elderly Affairs at (808) 241-4470 or email elderlyaffairs@kauai.gov as soon as possible. Early requests are encouraged to ensure adequate time to meet your needs. Upon request, this notice is available in alternate formats, including large print, Braille, or electronic copy.

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