Native Uncle Mike Keale Support

Market Ohana (family)

KKCR Radio - Information of Petition

Response To Complaints

Raised by a farmer here in Hawaii I am passionate about supporting local small businesses. I have a small sustainable business where I create apparel using vintage Hawaii textiles that I sell. This business allows me to be a present mother and work from home. Recognizing a need to bring local farmers and artists together on the north shore to share their Kaua’i-grown produce and Kaua'i-made crafts I organized the Princeville Farmers & Artist Market. It makes my heart smile to witness firsthand how beneficial the market is for small local businesses as well as the community that surrounds it. 

Our local vendors harvest the fruits, vegetables, and food products that sustain us. They compose the unique arts, crafts, and trinkets that are part of Kauai's identity. The Princeville Farmers & Artist Market is more than just a place where commodities are exchanged - it's a cultural heart, a social meeting point, and an economic engine in a community that is lacking in the local Hawaiian culture and community. 

Yet, many don't realize the extent to which these small businesses rely on the Princeville Farmers & Artist Market. Our market proudly represents a diverse group of our kupuna, Native Hawaiian, born and raised Kaua'ians, and long-time residents of Kauai that depend on the market for their livelihood. When you support the market, you're directly boosting our local economy, aiding the survival of small businesses, and preserving the culture of Kaua'i. 

Priority to participate is given to Kupuna, farmers, and Native Hawaiians. Proudly, 45% of our market is made of Kupuna, farmers, and Native Hawaiians.  Our market supports 50 locally-owned small businesses and local musicians. Approximately 35 of the 50 are minority-owned businesses. 42 are woman-owned businesses.  It would be a great shame and blow to our community and local economy to have this market cancelled.

According to available data (from Data USA) the population of Princeville is around 2,000 people, with a significant portion likely being mainland transplants due to the area's popularity as a tourist destination and retirement community. Less than 30% of the population is actually from Hawaii. I appreciate that the Princeville Farmers and Artist Market invites valued Hawaiian culture into our space.

This petition exists to champion four primary goals: to increase awareness about the importance of the Princeville Farmers & Artist Market that strongly supports local farming, arts and crafts; to strengthen our local economy; to promote sustainability; and, to further enrich the cultural life on Kaua'i.

A few voices are working against this beautiful market, and we need your help to protect this important venue that brings local farmers, artists, residents, and visitors together each week. Sign this petition and encourage others to as well to ensure the market remains a thriving hub for local farmers and artisans. Together, we can sustain the lifeblood of Kaua'i.

Letters of Support:

• Email: events@bloomandprosperhawaii.com
• Attention: PHCA Board and Planning Department
• Subject: Letter of Support