ASD icon blue inverse lighter

ASD Staff

Hawai'i Skies

Today's Hawai‘i Skies was captured by Linda Peters in Waikīkī. "

We are so blessed to live in Hawaiʻi and sometimes we just need to take time to enjoy it. When asked what restaurant I want to go to celebrate Mother’s Day, I responded with a simple picnic at the beach watching the sunset. It was so beautiful and relaxing!"

To submit your Hawai'i Skies photo, visit us 

For the latest news of Hawai‘i, sign up 

B51fc52e a12a 4c2a 91a6 9c3cef402018

<title>Hawaiʻi Skies: A simple picnic</title>

Today's Hawai‘i Skies was captured by Linda Peters in Waikīkī.

Hawaiʻi Skies: A simple picnic

Today&#039;s Hawai‘i Skies was captured by Linda Peters in Waikīkī. &quot;We are so blessed to live in Hawaiʻi and sometimes we just need to take time to enjoy it. When asked what restaurant I want to go to celebrate Mother’s Day, I responded with a simple picnic at the beach watching the sunset. It was so beautiful and relaxing!&quot; To submit your Hawai&#039;i Skies photo, visit us online or email: general@alohastatedaily.com For the latest news of Hawai‘i, sign up here for our free Daily Edition newsletter.

Daily Smile

[{"type":"text","text":"Give this guy extra treats..."}]

Smile 26 5 22

<title>Daily Smile: Friday, May 22, 2026</title>

Give this guy extra treats...

Daily Smile: Friday, May 22, 2026

Kelsey Kukaua Medeiros Headshot

Kelsey Kukaua Medeiros

Viewpoints

Aloha Spirit

For nearly two decades, Kumu Earl Kawaʻa, 81, has offered Board and Stone, cultural workshops for ʻohana across sites on Oʻahu, where he currently resides, and most recently on Molokaʻi, where he was born and raised.

Growing up in Hālawa Valley, the Molokaʻi High School graduate said, “Cultural ʻike and connection to the land and ocean has served me well. Otherwise, I wouldn’t have had the depth, which is something I realized later in life.”

“I left Molokaʻi [when] I needed to. I didn’t want to be the best pineapple picker, but I was headed that way,” Kawaʻa said with a laugh, noting that soon after he served in the Molokaʻi National Guard and in the Peace Corps. He received a bachelor’s in psychology and master’s in social work by 1982 and followed his passion working with nonprofits and schools, serving as a cultural specialist for Kamehameha Schools for 18 years. Later, he went on to help address public housing, homelessness and economic development, particularly advocating for Native Hawaiians.

In 2010, the cultural practitioner started teaching Board and Stone out of a garage. It took a couple years to formalize the program, which teaches families how to carve a wooden board (papa kuʻi ʻai) and shape a stone poi pounder (pōhaku) using only hand tools. Its mission — his “lifeʻs work” — is to put at least "one board and one stone in every home,” Kawaʻa told Aloha State Daily.

Across the Islands, Board and Stone gatherings take place weekly over about four months. Classes are primarily for instruction, including some outings on weekends, while most of the work on the boards and stones is done at home, according to an alakaʻi (leader).

“Board and Stone is a class I offer to people, but people have to make the choice to do it,” Kawaʻa said. “The orientation is designed to give them enough information. But they have no idea what they are in for — and thatʻs when the learning takes place.”

Alakaʻi Eric Keawe told ASD that during his own upbringing, his parents taught Hawaiian music more than culture, language and religion. “I’ve been here at Board and Stone for at least 10 years, so have some of the other alakaʻi, who are all like family. Because of his ʻike (Kawaʻa’s knowledge), I have gained knowledge and skills, even in public speaking, that I didn’t have before. I’m always learning and relearning.”

Beneath the surface, the classes perpetuate Hawaiian language, culture and traditions —

Kawaʻa’s other skills in hale and rock wall construction, canoe building, farming, fishing, which he learned from his parents and community. His latest venture is learning the healing practice of hoʻoponopono, which his parents, Walter and Georgina Kawaʻa, were known for.

Earl Kawaʻa added: “But I am the only one left in my family, my two sisters died and my brother. My wife [Patricia] has always been my rock.”

[{"type":"text","marks":[{"type":"textStyle"}],"text":"The pair have a daughter, Yahna."}]

Looking back, “the ’60s and ’70s were the best time of my life, and what that means is that the knowledge and skills that I had, even teaching, was being refined. Of course, that was about when I met my wife.”

Today, Kawa‘a continues to be recognized for his “life’s work,” which has reached thousands of people through various speaking engagements and teaching opportunities.

“I love telling stories; but I am also learning to not talk so much.”

[{"type":"text","marks":[{"type":"textStyle"},{"type":"bold"}],"text":"Recent recognition"}]

Last month, the Hawaiʻi House of Representatives honored Kawaʻa during the 2026 legislative session “for dedicating his life to preserving Hawaiian language and culture, mentoring future generations, and strengthening communities throughout Hawaiʻi.”

[{"type":"text","marks":[{"type":"textStyle"}],"text":"This was not something he was expecting."}]

Rep. Lisa Marten of District 51, which includes Waimānalo, Keolu Hills, Lanikai and a portion of Kailua, experienced Kawaʻa’s expertise in traditional hale building firsthand, which she shared briefly with lawmakers on April 2. Watch the full presentation (HR210), 

Kawaʻa asked four individuals to join him on the House floor that day, dressed in lei, to be recognized: Board and Stone Alakaʻi Kekipi Imamoto, a retired combat soldier who lives in Papakōlea with his ʻohana; Board and Stone Alakaʻi Kahiau Paik, a 2025 KS graduate who works with Hoʻokuaʻāina; Keoni Peters, a hale builder who worked on Marten’s project in Hāmākua; and longtime partner, Jenna Umiamaka, Human Resources director at Keiki O Ka ʻĀina (KOKA).

[{"type":"text","marks":[{"type":"textStyle"}],"text":"What’s next for Board and Stone?"}]

Expansion, both nationwide and globally, Kawaʻa said, noting that it’s his dream to bring the classes to Japan, though, it will take sponsorship to help make this a reality.

And eventually, who will take over? “There are several people in place who will rise to the job. The opportunity is in their hands,” he added. “The foundation is already solid.”

“‘E ola mau ka hana a me ka ʻike o nā kupuna.’ The work and the knowledge of our ancestors must live on.”

In transparency, I graduated from Board and Stone in spring 2021, invited by a former co-worker and alakaʻi, Roger Vistart.

I started at KOKA but finished with the Papakōlea class, due to restrictions to gathering sizes during the Covid-19 pandemic. What would have been a four-month class was extended to nearly one and a half years. But in that season, I never felt forgotten.

Kawaʻa was and is my kumu, and Keawe and Imamoto are my alakaʻis, among others. What I took away from their guidance, patience, selfless service and humility both in class and beyond was newfound confidence as a Hawaiian and a contributing member of this community.

In April, I visited KOKA’s Board and Stone class, greeted by the sound of metal hitting wood, warm embraces and the aroma of blooming puakenikeni. It was good to be home.

A circle of alakaʻi had formed around Kawaʻa, who was hunched over a wooden board, sharing the technique of shaving down its rough corners using a koʻi (ax-like tool with metal blade). He invited some of them to try and gently corrected, as needed. The shavings should “curl,” he explained, while tapping lightly on their backs to help them keep rhythm.

Meanwhile, ʻohana were arriving with their own papa and pōhaku; parents set up their work stations and greeted one another, while keiki played together throughout the evening.

At the call of "Hūi!" kane and wahine lined up for Hawaiian protocol (loina or ha‘akoa) and prayer (pule). Next came instruction from alakaʻi about inoa (name) and moʻolelo (story), in which ʻohana will call their boards and stones and share their journeys, respectively, at an upcoming celebration, or hōʻike (to demonstrate one’s knowledge).

The hana (work) began and Kawaʻa, along with the alakaʻi, dispersed to assist families. Class concluded with moʻolelo presented by keiki in both ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi and English.

Afterwards, the alakaʻi-led debrief meeting allowed for reflection on their own personal growth, in addition to observations from those whom they worked with. The overall sentiment was gratitude for kumu’s “master class” in working the board and celebrating “how far the families have come along.”

In time, Board and Stone has taught me the importance of ʻohana, finding beauty in imperfection and finishing what you start through hard work, self-discipline and perseverance. I also learned how to pule and respect the ʻāina, honoring Ke Akua, those who came before me and those journeying alongside. Everyone has a moʻolelo that can be used to uplift and bring value to one another’s lives.

Those interested in learning more about Board and Stone can visit 

Board and Stone 2020

<title>Kumu Earl Kawaʻa, haumana recognized for Board and Stone</title>

Born and raised on Molokaʻi, Kawaʻa has offered Board and Stone to ʻohana across the Islands since 2010. The cultural classes teach families how to carve a wooden board (papa kuʻi ʻai) and shape a stone poi pounder (pōhaku) using only hand tools, while perpetuating Hawaiian traditions, language, moʻolelo and more. Last month, the Hawaiʻi House of Representatives honored him and his team for their dedication to community.

Kumu Earl Kawaʻa, haumana recognized for Board and Stone

Square Mike Brestovansky Headshot RGZ3736 Large

Michael Brestovansky

Government & Politics

Hawai‘i residents should prepare for a stronger than average hurricane season, warn state and county officials.

An early outlook by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts that the Eastern and Central Pacific Ocean could see anywhere between five to 13 tropical cyclones this hurricane season. NOAA meteorologist John Bravender said an average year sees around four or five cyclones.

The stronger storm season is due to a developing El Niño event, Bravender said. El Niño, part of a cyclically shifting global weather pattern, is marked by warmer waters in equatorial Pacific waters.

The second-most active Pacific hurricane season on record, in 2015, was caused by the last strong El Niño event. That year saw 26 named storms, the most since 1992.

This year, Bravender said, ocean temperatures are starting a bit cooler than in 2015, so meteorologists are not predicting quite so busy a storm season. However, he added, it is difficult to predict how intense an El Niño event will be this far in advance, so the number of cyclones generated this year will depend on how quickly or gradually ocean temperatures rise.

Bravender added that NOAA’s estimates only consider how many storms might be generated this year, not how powerful those storms may be or whether they strike Hawai‘i.

Nonetheless, state and county officials have urged residents to begin preparations for the hurricane season now. Quoting Sun Tzu, Maj. Gen. Stephen Logan, director of the Hawai‘i Emergency Management Agency, said “Plan for what is difficult while it is easy, do what is great while it is small.”

Gov. Josh Green advised residents to have at least 14 days of non-perishable food and water on hand in case access to supplies is cut. Residents should make sure they have extra batteries, sufficient food for pets, and copies of important documents kept in safe places.

Bravender suggested that residents begin stockpiling food piecemeal in order to defray the cost.

Elton Ushio, administrator of the Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency, said households should discuss ahead of time whether their priority is to shelter in place or evacuate in the event of a severe storm.

Ushio said that a well-constructed home that’s up to code should be sufficient shelter in most storms. But residents of a home that isn’t up to standards, or that’s located in a flood zone or along a coast susceptible to storm surges, should seek more secure refuges, either among friends and family or at public shelters.

However, Ushio added that public shelters will be crowded and will not have many services available for users: residents will be responsible for their own food, and their pets will need to remain caged.

Furthermore, many shelters have not been designed to withstand hurricanes. HIEMA Administrator James Barros said the state is compiling a list of hurricane-safe shelters.

Following the severe Kona Low storms in March, Green said teams and high-water vehicles are being preemptively positioned around flood-sensitive areas.

“We’ve gotten adept at dealing with storms,” Green said, noting that the 2023 Lahaina wildfires were triggered by Hurricane Dora, a storm that never directly contacted the Islands, but whipped up winds to quickly spread the flames.

 from HIEMA and their respective county emergency management agencies.

 For the latest news of Hawai‘i, sign up 

Bravender

<title>NOAA predicts strong hurricane season</title>

An early forecast of this year's hurricane season estimates between five and 13 tropical cyclones in the Eastern and Central Pacific, and Hawai‘i residents are advised to start preparing now.

NOAA predicts strong hurricane season

Kelli Shiroma Braiotta Headshot

Kelli Shiroma Braiotta

Food & Dining

Everyone’s looking to save money and get the most bang for their buck. This series will show you where you can save while still savoring a good meal.

, recently launched a new poke bowl special. Customers can choose from four different poke bowls that are $13 each.

Choose from spicy ‘ahi poke, hurricane, ginger scallion and spicy garlic crunch. Each bowl contains a little less than 6 ounces of poke that’s made from fresh ʻahi. These flavors are popular at the eatery

’s sister business, Mermaid Poke, which is located in the Liliha Food Court.

The spicy ‘ahi poke features spicy mayo, onions and furikake. The ginger scallion is especially refreshing because of the sauce. If you want something with extra heat, go for the spicy garlic crunch. The hurricane flavor features a garlic soy chili sauce.

These poke bowls are only available at Noods Ramen Bar’s Hawai

i Kai store. They’re available for both dine-in and takeout.

The poke bowls are not listed on the eatery’s website, but customers can call the store to order them.

Noods Ramen Bar Hawaii Kai poke bowls 051526

<title>Budget Bites: $13 poke bowls at Noods Ramen Bar Hawaiʻi Kai</title>

These poke bowls are only available at the ramen business’s East Oʻahu store. Choose from spicy ‘ahi, hurricane, ginger scallion and spicy garlic crunch.

Budget Bites: $13 poke bowls at Noods Ramen Bar Hawaiʻi Kai

Governor Josh Green has passed a law preserving many of the tax cuts he had previously announced would be suspended.

At the start of the 2026 legislative session, Green 

 that the next in a series of incremental tax cuts would be paused in order to make up for an alleged $3 billion shortfall in the state budget.

, touting them as “the largest income tax cut in the state’s history.” In most years between 2024 and 2031, the cuts would have amended income tax brackets and increased standard deduction amounts.

 to suspend those cuts after 2026, the version of that bill he signed Thursday maintains some of the cuts after all.

The bill — now enrolled into law as Act 24 — maintains the future cuts for single filers making less than $175,000 per year, heads of household making under $262,500 and joint filers making under $350,000. It also includes a new tax bracket for households making $1 million or more annually, and subjects them to a 13% marginal tax rate.

In a statement Thursday, Green said the law is “a balanced and responsible approach to safeguarding Hawai‘i's financial future.”

“It preserves meaningful tax relief for working families while ensuring we have the resources to protect essential services that our residents depend upon every day," read Green's statement.

SB 3125 also scales down a renewable energy tax credit over the next several years, establishing caps on the total number of credits issued each year for wind and solar power systems between 2027 and 2030 — each year is capped at $40 million. Then, in 2031 and beyond, that cap is zeroed out, with no further credits available.

Green’s announcement Thursday also stated that he is working with private entities to bring investments to support the renewable energy industry “in the very near future,” as well as developing larger-scale renewable energy tax credits.

Josh Green state of the state 012125

<title>Tax cuts saved: Green signs bill to preserve most upcoming tax cuts</title>

Despite previous announcements that future tax cuts would need to be paused, Gov. Josh Green signed on Thursday a measure that preserves most of them.

Tax cuts saved: Green signs bill to preserve most upcoming tax cuts

Katie Helland Headshot

Katie Helland

Arts & Entertainment

 Goes came up with the lyrics for the band’s latest single, “Up Late,” in his living room. The song, which comes from the ‘Āina Haina-based band Backset — where Goes is the lead singer — will release on Spotify, Apple Music and Itunes on Thursday night.

“I was kind of feeling rebellious in my living room,” he told Aloha State Daily. “I started writing a song, and then I kind of put it on the back burner for a little while."

Originally, the surfer was imagining how someone might respond to being told what to do.

“And one day, I was just hanging at my buddy's house and there was this girl that I was talking to at the time, and she had sent me this text message the previous night, and it was keeping me up late just thinking about her text message,” he said. “I was just at my buddy's house jamming the guitar, and then I came up with this line: ‘You got me up late thinking about your message.’ ”

— and some of their other music — live at 9 p.m. on Friday, May 22, at the Secret Spot Honolulu, a café and bar within The Laylow, Autograph Collection in Waikīkī. 

“This is the first song of a six-song EP, so it's a little teaser for what's to come,” he said. “I would say they should come to dance!”

On the Rise Artist with the Henry Kapono Foundation

, a program that supports the careers of Hawaiʻi’s emerging musicians by providing them with paid gigs, master classes and mentorship.  

 a new talent competition launched by Hawaiian Council.

The alternative indie rock band has some reggae influences, as well as psychedelic and ethereal sounds. The band includes Goes, who is the lead singer and plays guitar, Joaquin Browne on guitar, Kobeats on drums, Cam Somlak on bass, and Josh Kay on keys with backing vocals. Kay, who now lives in California, will be joining the band for its performance on Friday.

Backset draws inspiration from a variety of artists.

“I get very inspired by a couple of Aussie bands that I've been listening to since I was in high school,” said Goes, who attended Kaiser High School and then Honolulu Community College.

Some of the groups that influence the band include Sticky Fingers and Ocean Alley, as well as The Police, The Rolling Stones, 

, Pepper, Sublime and Radiohead, he said.

We're very excited to be dropping  new content," Goes said. "We have a music video for the song."

[{"type":"text","text":"The band also recently released its album \"Backset, Vol. 1.\" "}]

For the latest news of Hawai‘i, sign up 

Backset

<title>Backset drops new single “Up Late”</title>

The ‘Āina Haina-based band Backset is releasing its first single from a six-song extended play this week. Aloha State Daily caught up with Gabriel Goes, who also performed on NBC’s “The Voice,” Hawaiian Council’s “Hawaiʻi to the World,” and more, about his inspiration for the new music and how to listen.

Hawaiʻi Skies: A simple picnic

ASD Staff

More in Hawai'i Skies

Hawaiʻi Skies: The right place

Hawaiʻi Skies: "A thrill a minute"

Hawaiʻi Skies: Sitting low

Hawaiʻi Skies: An absolute

Most read

Hawaiʻi Skies: A simple picnic

Authors

ASD Staff

More in Hawai'i Skies

Hawaiʻi Skies: The right place

Hawaiʻi Skies: "A thrill a minute"

Hawaiʻi Skies: Sitting low

Hawaiʻi Skies: An absolute

Most read