Kelsey Kukaua Medeiros
Aloha, I am Aloha State Daily’s senior editor reporting on community news. Know of any organizations and people making a positive difference in Hawaii? Please reach out to me at kelsey@alohastatedaily.com.
Originally from Los Angeles, I am Native Hawaiian with roots from Maui, residing on Oahu with my husband. Since moving to the Islands in 2019, I have volunteered for various local organizations such as 808 Cleanups, Keiki O Ka Aina’s Board and Stone, March of Dimes Hawaii and more.
Most recently, I was the associate editor of Pacific Business News for nearly six years. Prior to that role, I served as a copy editor and reporter for a daily newspaper, as well as a freelance writer for a lifestyle magazine, in California. Over the years, I have received multiple awards for my writing. I hold a bachelor's degree in communications from The Master's University, where I played soccer.
I am excited to build ASD as your go-to, reputable and fun news source for Hawaii. Happy reading!
Kelsey Kukaua Medeiros can be reached at kelsey@alohastatedaily.com.
Latest from Kelsey Kukaua Medeiros
Hawaiʻi says ‘No can’ to Great American State Fair in Washington, D.C.
Hawaiʻi government officials will not be present at the Great American State Fair, put on by Freedom 250 now through July 10, along with at least 10 mostly Democratic-led states citing cost, staffing and for some, political reasons. Gov. Josh Green says no funds were earmarked for the fair by the state or Congress and instead, has thrown support behind local celebrations.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 29, 2026
David Earles to step down from Junior Achievement of Hawai‘i
Earles, who has called the Islands home for nearly 30 years serving in various leadership roles across the nonprofit sector, plans to move to Nevada with his family after more than four years at the helm of JAH. The organization, which provides financial literacy and entrepreneurship programs to K-12 students statewide, is looking to hire its next president and CEO. The deadline to apply is Friday, July 3.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 26, 2026
Kumu Hula Kalani Viloria heads hālau in California
Since 2023, Kumu Hula Kalani Viloria and wife Hiwa Gacutan-Viloria have operated Kapiliwaiokeao, a hālau in Southern California that offers traditional and contemporary hula classes to haumāna (students) ages 3 and older. Viloria shares more about his upbringing in dance and the Hawaiian culture, the hālau’s evolution and recent hōʻike, future goals, and more.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 26, 2026
GoFundMe warns new Hawaiʻi law will impact nonprofits
Hawaiʻi's Act 205, which goes into effect July 1, requires written consent from nonprofits using GoFundMe, among other online charitable fundraising platforms, to keep its accounts active online and able to receive donations. GoFundMe VP Amanda Brown Lierman shares what local organizations need to know about the company’s process.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 25, 2026
Mid-Pacific Institute looks for next leader
The private school in Mānoa Valley has launched its search for president. The deadline to apply is Sept. 4, with the school hopeful to announce its new president on July 1, 2027. Outgoing president Paul Turnbull will head to North Carolina for a new role next summer.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 24, 2026
Maui-based clothing shop now open at Kāhala Mall
Waiwaolani, a Native Hawaiian-owned alohawear business featuring prints of Hawaiʻi’s native species, has expanded to Oʻahu with the opening of its first retail store on the island.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 23, 2026
Amy Miller reflects on five years at Hawaiʻi Foodbank
The nonprofit's president and CEO shares more about the operations and ongoing partnerships at the food bank with warehouses, staff and support on both Oʻahu and Kauaʻi. Her top priority is to expand the organization’s mission of nourishing ʻohana and ending hunger.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 23, 2026
Free meals fuel keiki for the summer
Aloha State Daily visited Salt Lake Elementary School’s summer program during lunch time, where about 120 Kindergarten through 6th grade students enjoyed a ready-to-eat meal with milk, some even going back for seconds. The school serves as one of 20 meal sites across Oʻahu and Kauaʻi through the Hawaiʻi Foodbank’s SUN Meals program, which partners with the state DOE’s Hawaiʻi Child Nutrition Programs, Hawaiʻi Children’s Action Network, and more.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 20, 2026
Boys and Girls Club of Hawaiʻi celebrates 50 years of legacy
The nonprofit, which includes several after-school clubs and centers across Oʻahu and Kauaʻi, is celebrating 50 years of caring for youth. Aloha State Daily caught up with president and CEO Paddy Kauhane to learn more about its programming and plans for expansion over the next 50 years.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 19, 2026
Bicentennial of Catholicism in Hawai’i: Cathedral restoration, community events planned through 2027
Wednesday marked the kick-off of celebrations honoring the first Catholic missionaries who arrived in the Islands in 1827 and will culminate in a grand bicentennial convocation on July 7–9, 2027. Catholic leaders in Hawaiʻi unveil their planned events and invite the community to join in jubilee! Also, learn more about the fundraising efforts to complete the restoration of the Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Peace in Downtown Honolulu.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 18, 2026
Tickets still on sale for Goodwill Goes Glam!
Sip, shop and watch a fashion show produced by Valerie Joseph at the 15th annual Goodwill Goes Glam! — Goodwill Hawaiʻi’s signature fundraiser set for July 16 to 18 at the Blaisdell Exhibition Hall. All proceeds stay in the Islands to help bolster the nonprofit’s workforce development programs.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 17, 2026
Waimānalo entrepreneur organizes curated monthly pop-up markets
This month’s Puʻuhonua Mākeke — which is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, June 20, at Puʻuhonua O Waimānalo — will feature 24 local vendors, raffles and prizes, lei and pāpale making workshops, and its signature free eggs and bread for the first 100 ʻohana. Organizer Lehua Kanahele-Santos, who owns Kanahele Roots and Pohinahina Kinis, talks about the heart behind the mākeke and her businesses, and what’s in store next.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 16, 2026
Molokaʻi or Molokai, and why? ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi speakers, community share manaʻo
Aloha State Daily revisits the Molokaʻi or Molokai debate over the spelling and pronunciation of the place name — with or without an ʻokina — initially for our own house style guide used across the website. Here’s what we learned from community members statewide.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 13, 2026
Nonprofit aims to scale programs to serve more ʻohana
Family Promise of Hawaiʻi Executive Director Ryan Catalani discusses findings from the most recent Point in Time Count and how the organization serving families on Oʻahu and Maui plans to be part of the solution to end homelessness.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 12, 2026
Award-winning food and travel series stops in Hawaiʻi
Chef Mark “Gooch” Noguchi, co-founder of nonprofit Chef Hui; pro surfer Nathan Florence; and Haleʻiwa-based musician Jack Johnson, who also runs the Kōkua Learning Farm through Kōkua Hawaiʻi Foundation; among others, showcased Hawaiʻi cuisine, culture and community on Huckberry’s series, “DIRT,” hosted by Josh Rosen. The episode, which culminates with a meal at the North Shore learning farm, dropped on May 28 and has garnered thousands of views already.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 11, 2026
Retired veteran promoted to executive role at U.S. Vets Barber’s Point
Tamah-Lani Noh recently stepped into the role of executive director at U.S. Vets Barber’s Point, a branch of a nationwide nonprofit that serves veterans in need of housing, workforce development and case management, and more. Noh shares what drives her approach to leadership and her vision to create a homelessness prevention hub.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 10, 2026
FEMA fraud co-conspirator sentenced to two years in prison
Daylyn Harris, who pled guilty for stealing disaster relief monies related to the Lahaina and Pacific Palisades wildfires, will face two years in prison, followed by three years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay back more than $60,000 to FEMA.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 09, 2026
Hawaiʻi 4-H livestock events teach youth real-life skills
Local youth from across the state have started showcasing their business and leadership skills after months of caring for steers and heifers, goats, pigs, poultry, and more, while learning how to sell them to buyers. Representatives for The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa’s College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resilience share with Aloha State Daily more about how Hawaiʻi 4-H livestock programs are preparing students for work, as well as what to expect at the free community events this summer.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 08, 2026
Mālama ʻāina every Saturday morning with Kuilei Cliffs
Nonprofit Kuilei Cliffs meets weekly at its namesake located on the makai slope of Lēʻahi, or Diamond Head, in Honolulu. From 8 to 11 a.m. on Saturdays, volunteers work to remove invasive species, and overgrown grasses and tree branches, for current and future generations to enjoy more green space and ocean views.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 05, 2026
Local author shares new book with live art
Mililani author Karen Gibson released "My Mother's Alzheimer's Journey From Tokyo to Honolulu to Oblivion" in April. This Friday evening, she’ll be at the Waikīkī Ocean Gallery, inside the Outrigger Reef Waikīkī Beach Resort, for a live painting and talk story session.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 05, 2026
Obon season kicks off at Kaimukī Public Library
Aloha State Daily caught part of the Obon Dance Workshop! at Kaimukī Public Library on Tuesday, which attracted all ages learning traditional Bon dances, or Bon odori, led by Hawaiʻi Shin Kobukai amid the Japanese Buddhist summer festival season, which in Hawaiʻi runs now through October.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 04, 2026
HANO report highlights current challenges, opportunities for local nonprofits
Melissa Miyashiro, president and CEO of the Hawai'i Alliance of Nonprofit Organizations, shares how its 2026 state of the sector report, “The View From Here: Insights From Hawai'i Nonprofits," came to be, and what conversations she hopes this will spark for the sector, policymakers, the public and more, to take action.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 03, 2026
OHA Board decides not to pursue proposed KITV- KIKU acquisition
The Office of Hawaiian Affairs Board of Trustees voted Thursday against funding due diligence for the potential purchase of local television stations KITV Island News and KIKU TV.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 30, 2026
Brandi-Ann Uyemura releases first book about Obon festival
In late March, the Kailua-based writer launched children’s book, “I am a Bon Dancer,” inspired by her own experiences with her grandfather attending Obon festivals in Hanapēpē. The author is hosting a couple of events open to the public at Kaimukī Library on May 31 and June 2, with more to be announced.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 29, 2026
Volunteer at fire restoration nursery in Kula this Friday
The Rotary Club of Upcountry Maui is hosting a community volunteer service day from 9 a.m. to noon on Friday, May 29, at the Kula Community Watershed Alliance’s Community Restoration Nursery. Participants will plant and propagate Native Hawaiian species, which are helping to restore the Kula burn area from the August 2023 wildfires.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 28, 2026
Hilton Grand Vacations, Honolulu Habitat work to finish Waimānalo home
Mitch Yokoyama, general manager of Hokulani Waikīkī, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club, reflects on the rewards of volunteering with HGV Serves, a corporate social responsibility program with several community partners, including Habitat for Humanity International. Yokoyama and colleagues recently joined Honolulu Habitat on a home build project in Waimānalo. Aloha State Daily also checked in with two Honolulu Habitat employees — Shana and Feta Petelo, the mother-daughter team that works directly with local families and volunteers.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 28, 2026
New rodeo highlights Hawaiian cowboy heritage on Hawaiʻi Island
“Paniolo Legends Under the Lights” is produced by third-generation paniolo Aki Smith, owner of Paniolo Culture Co. Presented in partnership with 1832 Hawaiʻi Living Co. and Waikōloa Stables, the evening includes rodeo events in the historic arena, a meal from Chef Nakoa Pabre of Umekes, live music and time to talk story with cowboys.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 26, 2026
KCC’s summer culinary cohorts to get cooking
Kapiʻolani Community College’s Culinary Institute of the Pacific, in partnership with Culinary Institute of America, is offering two culinary training programs at no cost for high school students and culinary professionals in June. The deadline to apply is through Friday, May 29.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 23, 2026
Kumu Earl Kawaʻa, haumana recognized for Board and Stone
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.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 22, 2026
Boys and Girls Club of Hawaiʻi’s annual fundraiser kicks off
Since 2017, Great Futures Day has aimed to raise awareness and funds for the nonprofit, which is celebrating 50 years of serving youth in the Islands. Throughout the dubbed the “Week of Aloha,” which runs from May 18 to 22, donors can double their impact thanks to various partners.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 19, 2026
Jarod Hester now oversees Oʻahu’s Polynesian Cultural Center
Earlier this month, Hester succeeded P. Alfred Grace as president and CEO of the cultural attraction in Lāʻie and in his role plans to prioritize people — workforce, guests and community members. Hester, who previously served as PCC's chief operating officer and chief financial officer, is originally from New Zealand and shares what initially drew his family to Hawaiʻi nearly 13 years ago, pleasant surprises in the role so far, and his vision to continue to enhance experiences at PCC.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 18, 2026
'Play with a purpose' at this kids gym in Honolulu
Owner of We Rock the Spectrum Honolulu John Ross shares the intention behind his first venture inspired by his son with autism and the families who are navigating a similar path. He describes it as "a place where every child, neurotypical or not, is genuinely celebrated."
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 15, 2026
Fundraiser for farms surpasses goal
Thanks to you and an anonymous donor, we raised more than $200,000 for the Hawai‘i Farmers Union Foundation's Hawai‘i Flood Response Fund. The GoFundMe page remains open as more donations come in that will help Hawai‘i’s farmers and rural communities devastated by recent Kona Low storms.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 14, 2026
Biodynamic farm on Maui seeks support after storms
Lokelani ʻOhana, a Wailuku farm that offers therapeutic programs rooted in Hawaiian culture for adults with developmental disabilities, is fundraising via GoFundMe and its website to aid in rebuilding following the back-to-back Kona Low storms in March. Donations to the nonprofit will also go toward bringing on an organic farmer, according to Farm Director Christina Chang.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 12, 2026
Molokaʻi-based nail art business owner's tips for design
Līhau Willing, founder of Hawaiʻi-born brand Iwi Nails, talks about the evolution of her business since 2021.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 11, 2026
Native Hawaiian author makes debut as novelist this month
California-based writer Kauakanilehua Māhoe Adams is set to release her first Young Adult novel in verse, “An Expanse of Blue,” on May 19. The fiction story loosely drawn from the author's own life experience, follows a teen with ties to Hawaiʻi and Washington as she navigates faith, family and love.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 08, 2026
Bishop-elect Michael Castori appointed as Bishop Larry Silva's successor
Castori, a member of the Society of Jesus, took a moment to thank God, Pope Leo XIV, the Most Rev. Silva, staff of the Diocese of Honolulu and more, who gathered for his official appointment as Bishop-elect on May 6. Bishop Silva, 76, submitted his resignation in August 2024 with plans to stay in Hawaiʻi following the episcopal ordination and installation ceremony for Castori in July.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 07, 2026
Keep it Aloha Events brings together Pokémon card collectors and community
This past weekend, Kamaka Dias of Keep it Aloha convened Pokémon card traders and members of the community at its debut card show in Kakaʻako. For those who missed it, the free event with more than 50 vendors and live entertainment will return on June 5.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 06, 2026
Honolulu Habitat for Humanity builds affordable homes in Waimānalo
Meet the nonprofit affiliate’s new Executive Director Melissa Bruhl, who has lived on Oʻahu for more than two decades holding various leadership roles in the private sector, along with her team comprised of staff, contractors and volunteers.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 02, 2026
Debbie Cabebe to retire from Maui Economic Opportunity after 26 years
Aloha State Daily caught up with Cabebe, who joined the nonprofit in 2000 and took the helm nine years ago, about what she’ll miss most working alongside staff to serve its clients. Meanwhile, Executive Director Maggie Clark Batangan readies to become CEO in August.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosApril 30, 2026
Conservation leaders rediscover several native species on Lāna‘i
Rachel Sprague, director of conservation at Pūlama Lāna‘i, and Zach Pezzillo, coordinator at Maui Nui Plant Extinction Prevention Program, share about their recent rare findings. In observance of Native Hawaiian Plant Month, they also discuss how community members can make a difference in their own backyards.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosApril 29, 2026
Financial aid to be deployed to farmers impacted by floods
The Hawai‘i Farmers Union Foundation took it to social to share that the Hawaiʻi Flood Response Fund — for which Aloha State Daily secured a donor to match dollar-for-dollar, up to $100,000 — will open grant applications this week. As of Monday, the GoFundMe was 96% to goal with proceeds going directly to farmers, ranchers and fishers who are recovering from the recent Kona Low storms.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosApril 28, 2026
RevoluSun and new cookbook author Kimi Werner bring community together
Maui-born freediving spearfisher and chef Kimi Werner recently signed copies of her new cookbook and shared her journey over lunch hosted by the Honolulu-based solar company.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosApril 27, 2026
Come learn more about this author's journey
Meet Nancy Arcayna in-person this Sunday, April 26, at Ala Moana Center’s Barnes & Noble for a book signing of “Checked Out to Checked In: A Nomadic Journey to Self‑Love.” Through sharing her own experiences, she hopes readers will walk away encouraged to take steps toward living their best life.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosApril 23, 2026
More ways to help with storm recovery
Looking to give back to organizations continuing to aid those impacted by severe floods last month? Here are some ideas of how to help farmers, teachers and other members of the community.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosApril 21, 2026
Waialua family raises funds for home pottery studio
The Pearce ʻohana evacuated their home along Waialua Beach Road in waist-high water during a Kona Low storm last month. Now, they are waiting out the rain before rebuilding, which includes securing new permits for a lifted second dwelling. In the meantime, they’ve started purchasing items to revive their home pottery studio with monies raised from GoFundMe.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosApril 17, 2026
Jack Johnson hometown tour tickets set to release
Following recent flooding across the Islands, the Haleʻiwa-based musician paused ticket sales for the film premieres and concerts on May 14 and 15 in Honolulu. Starting April 16, the presale for Hawai‘i residents will launch, while remaining tickets are planned to go live on Friday, April 17. Part of the proceeds will benefit nonprofit The Lāhui Foundation to support ongoing storm recovery and rebuilding efforts.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosApril 16, 2026
Public input sought for Kauleolī plan in South Kona
Now through May 15, The National Park Service is seeking public feedback to help shape the long-term vision of the Kauleolī Unit of Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail on Hawaiʻi Island. A community meeting will be held on April 18 at the Amy Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden in Captain Cook, where trail managers will share preliminary concepts, gather ideas and answer questions.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosApril 14, 2026
Donate blood, help support disaster recovery
For every blood donation made through the end of April, Blood Bank of Hawaiʻi will make a monetary contribution to Hawaiʻi Community Foundation’s Stronger Hawaiʻi Fund. The fund provides grants to nonprofits on the frontlines of disaster and emergency-related preparedness, response, recovery, mitigation and resilience.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosApril 11, 2026
Physician Ira Zunin seeks successor for clinic in Honolulu
Zunin, the medical director at Manakai O Malama Integrative Healthcare Group and Rehabilitation Center along Ala Moana Boulevard, founded the integrative health care practice in 2002 with wife and acupuncturist, Alia Zunin. With hopes of semi-retiring by the end of May, he is looking for the next person or entity to take over the facility and continue “to move this kind of medicine forward.”
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosApril 09, 2026
Public input sought for proposed community center in West Maui
G70 and Maui County Department of Parks and Recreation have partnered to bring community spaces and facility programs back to West Maui. Residents can submit feedback in-person and online starting May 19 to June 14.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosApril 07, 2026
Faith-based nonprofit aims to bring hope amid disaster
Convoy of Hope, a global humanitarian and disaster relief organization headquartered in Springfield, Missouri, continues to provide food, supplies and services to residents on Oʻahu in response to recent flooding.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosApril 04, 2026
Johnson ‘Ohana Foundation, Kōkua Hawai‘i Foundation donate to flood recovery
Musician Jack Johnson and wife Kim Johnson, who reside on Oʻahu’s North Shore, have teamed up with GoFundMe to give directly to ʻohana impacted by the recent Kona Low storms. The pair is pledging $500,000 in total, some of which is being dispersed to local nonprofits, and plan to host a fundraiser this Friday at the Kōkua Learning Farm in Haleʻiwa.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosApril 02, 2026
Nonprofit provides paid, work-based learning to residents seeking careers in technology
Aloha State Daily caught up with Carlo Liquido, executive director of Pi’ikū, whose mission is to create opportunities for emerging tech talent. He shares his personal and professional background, as well as his vision for the organization’s future. Cohort participant Zelda Cole also describes her experience and how it prepared her for the workforce in Hawaiʻi.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosApril 01, 2026
Native Hawaiian author Malia Maunakea to release next book
The Colorado-based writer of intermediate school fiction is set to launch “The Shark Prince” on May 5. As part of the pre-order campaign, Penguin Publishing Group will donate up to 500 copies to Hawaiʻi Literacy, a local nonprofit that provides free reading and writing programs.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMarch 31, 2026
Oʻahu churches serve neighbors impacted by flooding
Inspire Church, North Shore Christian Fellowship, St. Michael Parish and more, have mobilized to provide shelter, cleanup, supplies and meal services to those in need following severe storms. Aloha State Daily spoke with pastors, who along with their crews and community members, are still boots on the ground in Haleʻiwa, Waialua and Mānoa.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMarch 26, 2026
Nānākuli principal receives national recognition
Christine Udarbe, principal of Nānākuli High and Intermediate School, has been named a finalist for National High School Principal of the Year by the National Association of Secondary School Principals. Aloha State Daily asked Udarbe more about her career and priorities, as well as what this award means for the school and community.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMarch 25, 2026
Hawaiʻi Kai ice cream shop spreads joy during storm
Trang Hammond, owner of Hammond’s Gourmet Ice Cream, took it to Instagram on Saturday during severe weather to share some good news with customers stuck at home: Free ice cream until supplies last! She told Aloha State Daily about making the call and how the community showed up.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMarch 17, 2026
Ways to help with storm recovery
Looking to give back to organizations and causes across the Islands impacted by severe weather? Here’s some ideas spanning from GoFundMe campaigns for Waialua farmers to campaigns for local nonprofits.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMarch 16, 2026
Easterseals Hawaiʻi CEO Patrick Klein aims to scale statewide services
Klein, who grew up in Kailua, officially took the helm of the nonprofit in January. With a people-first, mission-driven approach, he’ll oversee a team of nearly 200 employees, while helping to empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families across Isle communities.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMarch 13, 2026
Kahuku Medical Center awarded $6M from Helmsley Charitable Trust
The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust has granted $6 million to Kahuku Medical Center to upgrade its emergency department and electronic health record system. Kori Napaʻa, chief strategy officer of the hospital, shares how the funding will be allocated and what this means for staff and patients in the North Shore community.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMarch 11, 2026
Mother-daughter duo lead wellness program in Waimānalo
Playing to their strengths of integrating education, plant-based nutrition and brain health, Malia Smith and Kapiʻolei Smythe co-founded We the Well Beings to provide healing through cultural practices, healthy meal plans, peer support and more. The results so far show that participants experience mitigated and even reversed chronic diseases.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMarch 10, 2026
Chaminade student gives back to program that turned his life around
Jeffrey “JD” Davidson of Oʻahu made the most of his prison sentence by participating in Chaminade University’s Prison Education Program to get a college degree while at Hālawa Correctional Facility. Now, he’s working to expand the program, while pursuing a bachelor’s in criminal justice, with a minor in psychology, to continue helping others.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMarch 06, 2026
New partnership aids remote heart health monitoring
A program by nationwide provider Circadian Health and AlohaCare assists members diagnosed with heart failure. Francoise Culley-Trotman, CEO of the local Medicaid health plan, shares what the latest results mean for families and health care organizations in Hawaiʻi.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMarch 05, 2026
Grand Hyatt Kauaʻi to host Bum Run for Colon Cancer Awareness Month
When Diann Hartman of Grand Hyatt Kauaʻi Resort & Spa was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer nine years ago, her colleagues offered support by spearheading a community event to raise funds and awareness for cancer research, screening and treatment. This year’s Bum Run, organized by the resort to benefit the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life Kauaʻi, is slated for Saturday, March 7, at Poʻipū Bay Golf Course.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMarch 04, 2026
Battle of the Books to return to Kahuku in April
The Ko‘olauloa Battle of the Books, an afterschool reading program that culminates in a game show-style competition, is set for Saturday, April 11. Kahuku Public and School Library Branch Manager Tamara King shares about how the program got started and has grown over the years, as well as the impact it has on ʻohana in the North Shore community.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMarch 02, 2026
Partnership brings new EMT training program to West O’ahu
Waiʻanae Coast Comprehensive Health Center, in collaboration with The City and County of Honolulu, have launched a program that offers both classroom and hands-on training, to strengthen emergency medical services capacity, while creating career pathways for those on the Leeward Coast.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosFebruary 28, 2026
Nonprofit combats early childhood workforce crisis
Despite funding uncertainty for its early childhood programs, Partners in Development Foundation recently provided workers with stipends to address Hawaiʻi’s cost of living. COO Terry Nakamura shares how PIDF dispersed the grant funding and what it meant to staff.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosFebruary 26, 2026
Maui County provides funding to strengthen community
On Tuesday, The County of Maui Department of ʻŌiwi Resources announced 11 local grantees, which are perpetuating Hawaiian language and culture, while restoring natural land and resources on the Valley Isle.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosFebruary 25, 2026
Maui United Way seeks community input for strategic plan
The organization has launched a survey for Maui County residents to help inform its next steps. The deadline is March 6, and it takes 5-10 minutes to complete. Aloha State Daily caught up with CEO Jeeyun Lee about the purpose of this outreach method and ongoing priorities for the year ahead.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosFebruary 24, 2026
Honolulu’s Rachel Chai talks caregiving
Chai, a mother of two, has more than a decade of experience as a caregiver, most recently with Griswold Home Care for Oʻahu. She was recently named a recipient of the company’s winter caregiver scholarship for National Caregivers Day, which will go toward her master’s degree in social work.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosFebruary 20, 2026
Group’s kuleana to maintain Kūʻīlioloa Heiau in Waiʻanae
The Royal Order of Kamehameha I, Moku O Kapuāiwa Chapter, helps steward the ancient site near Pokaʻi Bay still used today for community events that perpetuate Hawaiian culture.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosFebruary 19, 2026
Island Insurance employees give back
The charitable arm of Island Insurance, Island Insurance Foundation, donated more than $500K to 50 local nonprofits last year. Employees gave more than 350 hours of their time through various service projects spearheaded by its Ho‘ohana Club.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosFebruary 18, 2026
Kalihi author releases second book
In her new book, “Who We Are Becoming Matters: Courage, Wisdom and Aloha in the Timeplace of Collapse,” Norma Wong explores the values of aloha, kuleana and more to encourage readers in times of chaos. She shares with Aloha State Daily how her Indigenous perspective and Zen practices shape her work, what she enjoys reading, what’s next and more.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosFebruary 14, 2026
Hunt invests millions in new tech
ʻOhana Military Communities has begun to roll out new platforms that aim to improve operations, benefiting both staff and service members and their families that reside at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam and Marine Corps Base Kāneʻohe, among various communities on O‘ahu and Kauaʻi. We spoke with Hunt’s leadership at the corporate and local levels to learn about its overall impact.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosFebruary 12, 2026
There’s still time to enter the National Civics Bee Hawaiʻi
Chamber of Commerce Hawaiʻi is hosting its second annual civics competition for intermediate students. To enter, students must first write an essay exploring a community issue of interest while offering a thoughtful solution. Last year, topics ranged from strengthening elderly care services to increasing access to swim education in the state, and more. The deadline to submit for 2026 has been extended to Tuesday, Feb. 17.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosFebruary 11, 2026
Local floral designer presents the ‘Spirit of Aloha’ on global stage
Sue Tabbal-Yamaguchi, who owns Kakaʻako-based business SU‑V Expressions, set out to share "the aloha spirit through flowers" at IPM Essen 2026, the world’s largest trade fair for horticulture in Germany.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosFebruary 06, 2026
Love to eat poi? This contest could be for you
There’s still time to enter this Poi Eating Contest on the Big Isle put on by Hilo-based businesses So Juicy Hawai’i and Mokuwai Piko Poi. Entrepreneur Kwai-Chang Publico shares about his latest venture and some more context around the competition. "May the best poi pounder win," he said.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosFebruary 04, 2026
How to get discounted tickets for this Honolulu museum
Hawai‘i residents, active-duty service members, military dependents and veterans can visit the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum, including the USS Bowfin, for $5 per ticket over Presidents Day weekend from Saturday, Feb. 14, to Monday, Feb. 16. Ticket pre-registration is now open.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosFebruary 03, 2026
Chef from Honolulu competes in cooking show
Watch Mililani High School grad Hunter Gentry on Fox’s newest season of “Next Level Chef," judged by celebrity chefs Richard Blais, Nyesha Arrington and Gordon Ramsay. Gentry shares with Aloha State Daily about the experience, his cooking journey and style, and favorite restaurants to eat at when visiting home.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosFebruary 02, 2026
Nonprofit advocating for Hawaiʻi keiki appoints new leader
John-Paul Chaisson-Cárdenas, who joined Hawaiʻi Children’s Action Network earlier this month as executive director, brings more than 20 years of leadership experience to the role. He spoke with Aloha State Daily about the organization’s 2026 legislative priorities and goals ahead, as well as how he approached preparing for this job by connecting with Native Hawaiians living in the diaspora.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJanuary 30, 2026
Nonprofit works to restore watershed in Mākaha Valley
Mohala I Ka Wai and its various partners including Ka’ala Farm, the Honolulu Board of Water Supply and state Department of Land and Natural Resources, among others, aim to provide a space for the community to participate in ʻāina restoration, while creating opportunities for sustainable food production in Waiʻanae. Longtime volunteer and resident William Aila Jr. shares about the group’s history and purpose in this place.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJanuary 29, 2026
Where to find cow cuddling, bull safaris on the Big Island
James Narayan Higgins of Krishna Cow Sanctuary in Hilo took a leap of faith to save cows from slaughter in 2019. Now responsible for more than 250 bovines, he shares how he incorporates his Hindu beliefs into daily operations, which include popular and new experiences for visitors and kamaʻāina alike.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJanuary 28, 2026
Kaiser volunteers at Kaʻala Farm in Waiʻanae
Kaiser Permanente Hawaiʻi’s Annual Day of Service on Martin Luther King Jr. Day spanned nine cultural sites on four islands. We joined its hundreds of employees statewide, some of which worked in Waiʻanae Valley to restore ancient taro terraces and maintain a heiau. Learn more from physicians who look forward to this event every year, as well as the team who stewards this land daily.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJanuary 24, 2026
Maui-based brand aims to give back to native ecosystems
Roselani Aiwohi, owner of Waiwaolani, a local clothing business featuring prints of Hawaiian plants, shares how the venture got started and what community initiatives its spearheading today.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJanuary 23, 2026
Hilo’s Kevin Hopkins to be honored by ALS Network
A retired UH Hilo aquaculture professor, Hopkins serves as member of the nonprofit’s Community Research Committee, which aims to advance research, support and advocacy for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, nationwide. He was a dedicated caregiver to his wife, Margarita “Dayday” Hopkins, who died in 2021 after battling ALS for four years. The pair was married for 48 years, with three children and 11 grandchildren.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJanuary 17, 2026
Walk to support library services in Waikoloa
Hosted by Friends of the Library Waikoloa Region and Kohala Coffee Company, the annual 5K Walk/Run for Literacy is set for Saturday, Feb. 7, at Waikoloa Plaza. Proceeds from the fundraiser – which this year includes two auctions, both online and in-person, will go toward programming.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJanuary 16, 2026
Aulani Scholarship recipient first to land job at resort
Born and raised in Nānākuli, Nawahine Nascimento recently graduated from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa in both hospitality and Hawaiian Studies. She received aid from the Aulani Scholarship and went on to pursue full-time work at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, in Ko Olina – the first recipient to do so. Learn more about Nascimento’s career path and how to apply for the scholarship.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJanuary 15, 2026
JABSOM aims to create AI that will help recruit physicians
One solution to Hawai’i’s physician shortage, particularly in rural areas, is being tested thanks to a recent grant awarded to The John A. Burns School of Medicine Native Hawaiian Center of Excellence from the American Medical Association. Meet the team of researchers who will be carrying it out.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJanuary 14, 2026
Maui recovery nonprofit plans to scale services
Rhonda Alexander-Monkres, executive director of Ho‘ōla iā Mauiakama Long Term Recovery Group, reflects on the past year and shares how the organization is gearing up for an increase in case management cases with the Hawai’i Disaster Case Management Program set to close at the end of the month.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJanuary 12, 2026
Alzheimer’s Association Hawaiʻi fundraises over $1M for continued outreach statewide
The local chapter’s Executive Director LJ Duenas shares updates from the 2025 Walk to End Alzheimer’s Hawaiʻi campaign, which raised more than $1 million dollars across the Islands to support its programs. He also discusses priorities for the new year such as raising awareness about the disease and recruiting more volunteers who are vital to the organization’s mission.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJanuary 08, 2026
Nonprofits receive grants to continue mental health services on Maui
A hui of funders including the Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Foundation, the HMSA Foundation, Kaiser Permanente, Hawai‘i Community Foundation’s Maui Strong Fund and Maui United Way committed more than $2.7 million to organizations providing support to survivors of the 2023 Maui wildfires.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJanuary 08, 2026
Sentry gifts $1M to Maui nonprofits
Three local nonprofits benefited from The Sentry Insurance Foundation’s donation on Tuesday.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJanuary 07, 2026