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‘Outstanding’ honor for Hoffmann, Ito

Gov. Neil Abercrombie honors Pete Hoffmann as an Outstanding Older American. (Photo special to Hawaii 24/7)

Karin Stanton | Hawaii 24/7

Pete Hoffmann and Shirley Ito have been named as the county’s Outstanding Older Americans of the Year.

Former county councilman Hoffmann, of Waikoloa, was recognized Tuesday afternoon for his dedication to the island and his community service.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie was on hand to present a commendation from himself and another from the state Senate.

Abercrombie said he consulted with Hoffmann when he was first considered running for the state’s highest office, because he was impressed by Hoffmann’s commitment to the island’s people.

A representative of U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz also gave Hoffmann a commendation.

Hoffmann, 72, served four terms on the County Council and has volunteered with the West Hawaii Community Health Center board, helped found the Waikoloa Community Development Corp., organized the Waikoloa Senior Center, chaired the Twenty-first Century Learning Center, ran a school supply drive at Waikoloa Elementary School, and worked with the Hawaii Island Food Basket, Meals on Wheels and the Senior Summer Produce Board.

Ito, 74, of Hilo, was honored for her community contributions.

Other seniors honored this year for their service:

* Community Service Award: Marian “Miriam” R. Reyes of Kapaau, Edwin R. Castillo of Honokaa and Rogelio Roy Soto of Honokaa

* Senior Activities Award: Mabel A. Kaipo of Naalehu and Robert G. Gomes Sr. of Pahala

* Personal Achievement Award: Mei Ling Green of Pahoa, Helen C.O. Young of Hilo and Alfonso S. Mitchell of Kapaau

* Golden Years Award: Helen C.O. Young, 91, of Hilo and George Cabral, 83, of Ookala

* Partners in Eldercare Partnership Award: Chris Ridley

This year marks the Office of Aging’s 45th celebration of the county’s Outstanding Older Americans Awards. The national theme, “Unleash the Power of Age,” celebrates older Americans across the nation.

Pete and Joan Hoffmann. The couple soon will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary. (Photo courtesy of The Mayor’s Office)

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