10th Annual Mahalo First Responders Dinner in Waimea celebrates their service and sacrifice
The free event on Nov. 18 honors the people who protect, serve and heal North Hawaiʻi communities.
The public is invited to the 10th Annual Mahalo First Responders celebration on Wednesday, Nov. 18, at Kahilu Town Hall in Waimea.
The free event, which runs from 5 to 7:30 p.m., honors the police, firefighters, emergency medical professionals and the many others who devote themselves to the safety and well-being of North Hawaiʻi’s families, homes and communities.
“This evening is about making sure every person who serves our community feels seen, valued and appreciated,” said Nancy Carr Smith, president of The Waimea Community Association that is hosting the event.
This year’s celebration will specifically recognize the Hawaiʻi Fire Department’s Aviation Branch, Hawaiʻi Island’s volunteer firefighters and Hawaiʻi County Police Department Deputy Chief Sherry Bird, the first woman to serve in this position in the county’s 83-year history.
The program also will include:
- A presentation by Laura Mallery-Sayre, co-founder of the Daniel R. Sayre Memorial Foundation, which provides training and essential equipment to Hawaii County’s first responders.
- A meet & greet with Trina, the Hawaiʻi Police Department’s missing-persons K9, and Gilley, Queen’s North Hawaiʻi Community Hospital’s new therapy horse.
- A dinner buffet prepared by local chefs and restaurants.
- Live music by local musicians Hoʻopono Wong and Ana B.
“When our community comes together to mahalo first responders, it reminds the people behind the badge and the uniform that their service matters and is appreciated,” Hawaiʻi County Police Chief Reed Mahuna said in the release.
For details, visit www.waimeatown.org or email WaimeaCommunityAssociation@gmail.com.
