NUKOLI‘I — Kauai, as an island, captured three of the four major awards presented by the Hawaii Farm Bureau Federation on Wednesday, the final day of the 78th annual Farm Bureau Convention held at the Outrigger Kauai Beach Resort and Spa.
Farm Bureau President Darren Strand announced Kristen Kahaloa the recipient of the Legislator of the Year. Her award was accepted by Rep. Cory Chun, who was on his way to the Lihue Airport to catch a flight.
Joy Kono, the daughter of Kauai farmers Roy and Gladys Oyama of Kalaheo, was named “Outstanding Friend of Farmer” for her efforts in helping Farm Bureau Executive Director Brian Miyamoto and the different county farm bureaus.
Farm Bureau Executive Director Brian Miyamoto said the Farm Family of the Year Award honors a family whose hard work, innovation and community involvement exemplify the very best of Hawaii agriculture.
“Josh and Randy Uyehara’s ohana of Kauai come from a long line of farmers who have made a lasting impact on Hawaii’s agricultural landscape,” Miyamoto said. “Uyehara’s family has been a cornerstone of the Kauai farming community for generations, producing high-quality crops, mentoring young farmers, and supporting agricultural education and youth programs. Their story is one of family, tradition and dedication — values that continue to inspire all of us who care about Hawaii’s agricultural future.”
Miyamoto said the Active Member Award recognizes an individual whose dedication, leadership and commitment to the Hawaii Farm Bureau makes a difference. This year’s award was given posthumously to Sandi Kato-Klutke, whose family, including sons Tommer and Max, daughter Malia and dog Tomodachi, were present to accept the accolades on behalf of their mother.
“Sandi was the heart and soul of the Kauai County Farm Bureau,” Miyamoto said. “She was deeply committed to promoting local agriculture, strengthening her community and supporting Hawaii’s farmers and ranchers.”
“Through her leadership, Aunty Sandi helped support one of the state’s most cherished agricultural events, the Hawaii State Farm Fair,” Miyamoto said. “Many don’t know about Aunty Sandi’s involvement with the Hawaii State Farm Fair, even flying to Oahu every year to help out.”
Miyamoto described her as a “tireless advocate for farmers, always present at meetings, hearings and events where she shared her warmth, humor and wisdom.”
“Aunty Sandi’s influence reached far beyond Kauai,” Miyamoto said. “As ADC’s Chair, she represented Hawaii agriculture with pride, grace and strength, especially during her tenure, and she left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to work with her.”
In accordance with the family’s wishes, Miyamoto said the Hawaii Farm Bureau Federation will make a small donation to the Kauai County Farm Bureau as part of her awards package that included a special memorial wooden bowl and T-shirts from this year’s Hawaii State Farm Fair.
Source: The Garden Island