"Uncle Bill" Kamai Named Recipient of Coveted Tiny Malaikini Award
Lifetime Hana resident William K. Kamai has been named to receive the Tiny Malaikini Mea Kokua Award, an annual presentation honoring that person who has been judged to have contributed most selflessly to the community in the past year.
Established to memorialize one of Hana's most beloved citizens, the late Viewed "Tiny" Malaikini, the award includes a koa-framed proclamation, a cash honorarium and the addition of the recipient's name on a perpetual trophy, which is on permanent display at the Hana Cultural Center.
A retired Hotel Hana-Maui cook, Kamai owns and operates Uncle Bill's lunchwagon at Hana Bay, and also plays a major culinary role in almost every luau or social function held in this Maui village.
Known for his ready smile, willingness to help and cooking ability, he was the awards committee's unanimous choice.
Following the Aloha Week Parade, and with almost the entire town gathered at Hana Ballpark, Kamai was presented with the surprise award, the text of which reads:
"For his unfailing generosity in sharing his time, effort and legendary culinary talents, and for ling a life which truly epitomizes the meaning of the word aloha, the Hana Community lovingly honors Uncle Bill Kamai as the winner of the 1996 Tiny Malaikini Mea Kokua Award."