Aloha Spirit
It’s all about giving back.
ASD’s Aloha Spirit beat covers the kama‘āina who are making a positive difference in people’s lives. This is where volunteers are heroes and non-profit leaders are Hawai‘i’s navigators. We also cover Hawai‘i’s diverse faith community, and the religions which so deeply tie the Islands together.
News
Keʻalohi International Piano Competition announces winner
In the audience for a competition highlighting pianists from around the world were several special guests from Osaka, Japan. Learn more about the winner of the Keʻalohi International Piano Competition, and the exchange students from Japan who got to see the finalists perform.
Katie HellandAugust 29, 2025
“Sharing Aloha” in theaters Aug. 29
The documentary features a behind-the-scenes look at life for students who work at the Polynesian Cultural Center. Several of the featured students are part of PCC’s signature show, “Hā: Breath of Life.”
Katie HellandAugust 29, 2025
Kailua’s Gnarwall Surf Shop rides final wave
The Oʻahu-based business that opened six years ago with a mission to empower local shapers, while supporting surfers at every level, plans to close shop by the end of this month. Surfer turned business owner John Ingari shares insights about the industry, what heʻll miss most about serving the community and whatʻs next.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosAugust 29, 2025
Actor Beulah Koale shares “Tinā” behind the scenes
Actor Beulah Koale has been in the television shows “Hawaiʻi Five-0,” “NCIS: Hawaiʻi,” and “Magnum P.I.” Recently, he played a pivotal role in the movie “Tinā.” Now, he is asking Dwayne Johnson to see that movie, which celebrates Samoan culture, mothers and community.
Katie HellandAugust 28, 2025
“Tinā” opens in Hawaiʻi theaters today, Aug. 28
Miki Magasiva, the writer and director of “Tinā,” shares a behind-the-scenes look at the movie, ahead of the film’s arrival to theaters on Oʻahu and Maui.
Katie HellandAugust 28, 2025
Former Blue Angels pilot John Hiltz leads local nonprofit museum
Get to know the new CEO of Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, who was appointed by the board of directors in June to take the organization into its next phase.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosAugust 27, 2025
Community Voices: Canoe clubs, guardians of our nearshore fisheries
Hawai‘i's canoe clubs can take a tradition up a notch by leveraging their expertise to guide fishing practices in the Islands.
Toby MorrisAugust 27, 2025
Big Isle clinic cares for those on the streets
Nate Hakeem, street medicine patient navigator at Hawaiʻi Island Community Health Center, shares the history of its Street Medicine Outreach program committed to providing vital health care and social services to rural communities, as well as his personal journey working directly with homeless individuals.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosAugust 27, 2025
HCF’s Keanu Lau Hee provides an update on Maui Strong Fund
Since the Lahaina wildfire devastated West Maui two years ago, the Hawaiʻi Community Foundation has raised more than $209 million in donations from around the globe, making grants to local nonprofits handling immediate and long-term recovery efforts in the areas of housing, health and workforce development, and more. HCF’s senior director of the Maui Recovery Effort reflects on the progress made and the path forward.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosAugust 25, 2025
Q&A with UH Foundation CEO Tim Dolan
The University of Hawai’i Foundation surpassed $171 million in annual giving. UH Vice President of Advancement and UH Foundation CEO Tim Dolan shares more about “the most ambitious comprehensive fundraising effort in our history” and how it has enriched the lives of students and faculty, as well as research. The goal? To strengthen the university’s ability to serve Hawai‘i for generations.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosAugust 22, 2025
‘They really are heroes,’ says Kunia farmer of wildfire responders
Helio Arana, resident and former manager of Kunia Loa Ridge Farmlands, shares his account of Tuesday’s brush fire that burned 600 acres. He said it was growing fast due to high winds and credits local authorities and “the excellent air team” for "stopping the fire in its tracks." He also helped direct firefighters to access roads, while notifying neighbor farm owners.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosAugust 21, 2025
Community Voices: Remembering a life steeped in peace
Dr. Genshitsu Sen, a former WWII kamikaze pilot trainee who turned to the Way of Tea, practicing harmony, respect, purity and more, died last week at age 102. Since the early 1950s, he had deep ties to Hawai'i, including spending time with University of Hawai'i at Mānoa's faculty and students.
Justin PetersonAugust 21, 2025
North Shore Scout camp reenvisioned for community use
The planned improvements to Camp Pupukea aim to serve scouts, business and nonprofit organizations and community groups, as well as those seeking refuge during natural disasters, per Scouting America, Aloha Council.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosAugust 20, 2025
Watch animals 'born to surf' in Waikīkī
Volunteer organizer Kelli Hergert shares the history behind and what to expect this year at The Raising Cane’s Going to the Dogs SurFur ComPETition at Duke Kahanamoku OceanFest this Thursday, Aug. 21, at Kūhiō Beach. Spectators can enjoy all-day surf action by dogs, a cat and their humans.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosAugust 19, 2025
Turnout for Osaka orphans at HNL ‘unbelievable,’ says gov’t official
Four 11-year-old children from Holy Family Home in Osaka, Japan, landed at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport Monday met with cheering, lei giving and aloha, from dignitaries, the U.S. Army “Wolfhounds,” and local nonprofit Peace Bridge and its community supporters. These orphans will stay in Hawai’i for two weeks with military host families, while enjoying Oʻahu’s culture and attractions, promoting international peace and partnership.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosAugust 19, 2025
Annual Made in Hawai‘i Festival welcomes shoppers
The three-day event began Friday and continues through the weekend. Aloha State Daily spoke with a handful of the small business owners who set up shop.
Stephanie SalmonsAugust 16, 2025
Visit this museum for free on Labor Day
Hawaiʻi residents and active military can now pre-register for free tickets to tour the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum, including the USS Bowfin, on Aug. 30 through Sept. 1.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosAugust 15, 2025
HCAN executive director lands city job, new interim named
After 13 years leading nonprofit Hawaiʻi Children’s Action Network, Deborah Zysman will be stepping into her new role as Deputy Director for the City and County of Honolulu Office of Economic Revitalization on Aug. 18. Former HANO President and CEO Lisa Maruyama is serving as interim.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosAugust 14, 2025
Families fast-tracked at Honolulu airport
TSA launches new initiative at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport that enhances hospitality for families traveling with keiki 12 and under. The “Families on the Fly” campaign rolled out this summer across several airports throughout the country.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosAugust 13, 2025
Learn to line dance at Windward Mall
Every Thursday from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. in Kāne‘ohe, The Aloha Line Dancers Association teaches popular line dancing techniques free to the community. Instructor Bev Braun shares more about the group’s history and goals, as well as upcoming festivals and where else one can go to line dance.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosAugust 13, 2025
Goodwill Goes Glam! fashion show tickets still available
Goodwill Hawaiʻi’s three-day annual fundraiser is back from Aug. 14 to 16, featuring upcycled designs from Rumi Murakami and a sale of curated goods from various Isle stores.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosAugust 11, 2025
Restauranteurs talk rebuilding and expanding two years after Maui wildfires
Qiana and Michele Di Bari are the restauranteurs behind Sale Pepe Pizzeria e Cucina, which was lost in the 2023 wildfires and reopened earlier this year, returning to Lahaina. They also recently opened Via! by Sale Pepe, a "fast casual twist" to the Italian flavors made popular at its sister restaurant. Aloha State Daily recently spoke with the Di Baris ahead of the second anniversary of the fire to talk about their experience during the tragedy, their rebuilding — and their newest endeavor.
Stephanie SalmonsAugust 08, 2025
Photographing ʻThe Eddieʻ : John Hook takes us behind the lens
If you’ve watched The Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational, you’ve seen photographers bobbing in the waves to capture iconic images of surfers from around the world. On Friday, Aug. 8, several photographers, including Oʻahu-based John Hook, will share what it is like to capture photos from the water. Hook reflects on how he got started, as well why these photographers wear helmets.
Katie HellandAugust 08, 2025
Local teachers turn to GoFundMe to fundraise for classroom needs
It’s crunch time for many Hawai’i teachers readying to welcome students back to school this month. To help relieve some of the financial burdens on families, a couple have taken matters into their own hands to provide supplies and cozy spaces for students.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosAugust 08, 2025
The Hawaiʻi United Okinawa Association’s 43rd Okinawan Festival is coming
Early admission tickets are available for pre-sale starting Aug. 8 at 8 a.m., but general admission tickets will still be available for purchase at the door. This year’s festival on Aug. 30 and 31 commemorates the 125th anniversary of Okinawan immigration to Hawaiʻi.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaAugust 08, 2025
Diamond Bakery’s new school snack features ʻulu
Aloha State Daily recently toured the iconic cracker and cookie manufacturer’s Honolulu factory during the production of its animal crackers made with local breadfruit and honey for school cafeterias statewide. Hawaiʻi ʻUlu Cooperative and FLIK808 are key partners for this initiative.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosAugust 07, 2025
Pearl City’s Chuck E. Cheese auction underway
Bidding has begun for this auction of food/restaurant items to arcade games that bring you back to childhood now through Aug. 11. A community celebration is also planned for this Friday, Aug. 8, from 4 to 8 p.m., at the Chuck E. Cheese located at Pearl City Shopping Center.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosAugust 07, 2025
Kalihi furniture delivery made possible by three nonprofits
Since its inception in 2015, HomeAid Hawaiʻi has completed 17 housing projects, with more than $35 million in savings, thanks to partnerships that help provide donated labor and materials. It new relationship with Re-Use Hawaiʻi "makes so much sense," per leadership.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosAugust 07, 2025
USS Missouri volunteer looks back on Navy career
Fifth-generation kama‘āina John Fernie served for 30 years in the U.S. Navy, inspired by his boyhood heroes, and has worked and volunteered as a tour guide at the Missouri since 2006. You'll also find here information on how make reservations for events commemorating the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.
Cheryl Chee TsutsumiAugust 06, 2025
BIA Hawai‘i aims to build Maui's construction workforce
PACT is a full-time workforce development program for people who are new to the construction industry.
Stephanie SalmonsAugust 06, 2025
Drive safe, win cash
Third annual Drive Aloha Safest Driver Challenge promises up to $2,500 for winners in August
Michael BrestovanskyAugust 06, 2025
Community commemorates bombing of Hiroshima in Mōʻiliʻili
This and upcoming events aim to remember the lives lost in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, while promoting peace, resilience and hope for the future.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosAugust 06, 2025
Servco invests in Hawaiʻi business students
Leadership of the company's Fukunaga Scholarship Foundation shares its impact over the past 75 years and plans to sustain the program for future generations.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosAugust 05, 2025
2030 moon mission to use UH technology
NASA selects University of Hawai‘i proposal for an instrument to be included on Artemis V mission.
Michael BrestovanskyAugust 05, 2025
Kāneʻohe Bay Air Show: 8 things to know
Planes and automobiles are just part of the attractions at the Kāneʻohe Bay Air Show, which will be held this Friday, Aug. 8, through Sunday, Aug. 10. The free event allows attendees the chance to explore military aircrafts and listen to live music. Here are tips for the event this weekend, which organizers estimate will draw 100,000 people over three days.
Katie HellandAugust 05, 2025
Behind the scenes of Kāneʻohe’s Aloha Animal Sanctuary
The Oʻahu-based nonprofit that rescues farm animals took to GoFundMe in April to solicit donations to help build its reserves and continue operations. Support from the community has been great, according to Executive Director Kristie LaRose, who shares more about fundraising, volunteer recruiting and plans for growth.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosAugust 05, 2025
Tickets on sale for Made in Hawai‘i Festival
Set for Aug. 15 to 17 at the Hawai‘i Convention Center, the festival will showcase more than 700 local artisans, makers and entrepreneurs, and offer shoppers thousands of locally made products.
Stephanie SalmonsAugust 04, 2025
YMCA of Honolulu manages program waitlist through hiring initiatives
Vice President of People and Culture Kevin Patterson discusses the organization’s immediate staffing needs and current incentives for anyone – youth, teen or adult – looking for mission-driven work. To those questioning if they have what it takes to work with kids, he says, “You do!”
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosAugust 02, 2025
Doctor's office for Big Isle schools gets wheels
With the addition of a new mobile health clinic, partially funded by ‘Ohana Health Plan and the Centene Foundation, Hawaiʻi Island Community Health Center will begin service at DOE public and charter schools around the island. Funding supports HICHC’s Gateway to Health project to “expand access to essential health services for students in underserved areas."
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJuly 31, 2025
Nonprofit serves up food and smiles amid tsunami warning
The Salvation Army Hawaiian and Pacific Islands Division staff and volunteers prepared breakfast for 1,200 individuals across five shelters statewide, following a tsunami warning Tuesday.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJuly 31, 2025
Meet Miss Hawai‘i 2025 Emalia Dalire
Born and raised in Kāneʻohe, Dalire, 19, was crowned by the Miss Hawaiʻi Organization in May and will soon be headed to The Miss America Competition. Those interested in supporting her journey are welcome to come out to a fundraiser this Friday, Aug. 1, from 5 to 9 p.m. at Bayview Golf Course, featuring live music, small bites and door prizes.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJuly 29, 2025
UH Cancer Center program brings free workshops to community
Saturday's event focused on the science of mindfulness, part of a quarterly series presented by the Susan C. Hirano Cancer Community, Awareness, Research, and Emotional Well-Being (CARE) Community endowment fund. Learn more about Hirano and her vision to impact the lives of patients at the center and those touched by cancer through cultivating support, connection and community.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJuly 29, 2025
Recent funding allocated to help Lahaina families rebuild
Hawai‘i Community Foundation in collaboration with Maui County and the Partnership to Rebuild Lahaina has earmarked $15 million in grants toward Maui’s long-term recovery from the August 2023 wildfires. The grants will support 77 median income families who are reconstructing their homes, providing access to affordable loans and additional financing resources.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJuly 28, 2025
Chinatown resource hub ‘a place of respite’ for those in need
Malu Kou Community Connection Center operated by UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Hawai’i is focused on uplifting community by connecting ʻohana to services for health, housing and more. Its name means "shade from the kou tree" and the local team intends to help individuals "take a load off," says Recovery and Resiliency Manager Adrian Contreras.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJuly 26, 2025
Big Island Candies’ newest collab will benefit HUGS
The business’s collaborative box features a design from local artist Lauren Roth. A portion of proceeds from every sale of this special box will benefit HUGS.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 25, 2025
Domestic Violence Action Center board president shares next steps
Aloha State Daily spoke with DVAC Board President David Tumilowicz about the nonprofit’s recent leadership transitions, near-term priorities and overall goal to end domestic violence. He also shares his personal journey to help reduce stigma around the issue.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJuly 25, 2025
GSF Foundation delivers on supporting local families
Leadership at Quality Custom Distribution in Hawai'i discusses Golden State Foods Foundation’s impact across the Islands from its Focus on Food program, which addresses food insecurity among ʻohana, to other yearly initiatives run and funded by its staff of associates nationwide.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJuly 24, 2025
Relief for family of victims of fallen banyan tree in Hilo
A GoFundMe page, which identified the victims as Trisha and Michelle, is raising funds for their service planned for August.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJuly 23, 2025
Native Hawaiian-owned design and manufacturing companies aim to ʻuplift communityʻ
Tanya Uyehara, owner and designer of Lahaʻole Designs, also runs Kāholo Manufacturing Co., both of which currently operate out of Chinatown. She shares how her products share stories that “add intention and purpose” in a fast-fashion age. As Uyehara eyes a new location to take on more manufacturing clients, she's also getting ready for an exclusive release at Made in Hawai'i Festival.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJuly 23, 2025
Volunteers add final touches to family home in Waimānalo
Work is underway at the Keliinui ‘ohana's future home, where the multi-generational family will get to move into by the end of August. Aloha State Daily lent a hand over the weekend with Honolulu Habitat for Humanity. We share more about the nonprofit's mission for more affordable housing, as well as the many hands involved to pull this off.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJuly 22, 2025
Weinberg Foundation VP Marisa Hayase on impact and leadership
Hayase was recently promoted to lead The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation’s $150 million in annual grantmaking nationwide and in Israel. She joined the organization in 2019 as program director for Hawaiʻi. Aloha State Daily spoke with her about how the foundation has evolved since then and its priorities for the future.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJuly 19, 2025
Teach For America Hawaiʻi names new leader
Meilan Akaka Manfre became executive director of the organization this month, bringing more than 15 years of education experience to the role.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJuly 17, 2025
Global philanthropy firm funds UH rural health efforts, policy solutions
The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust has awarded more than $30 million to Hawaiʻi to date – here’s what its latest grants will fund.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJuly 17, 2025
Community leaders continue celebrations for Obon and plan to commemorate Hiroshima
Obon season is well underway in Hawaiʻi. Learn more from past and current leaders of the United Japanese Society of Hawaiʻi, who share about the recent Obon Memorial Service, the nonprofit's mission and their own family ties to Makiki, the place where early immigrants lay to rest, and Japan.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJuly 16, 2025
Ongoing auction will benefit Kāne‘ohe nonprofit
The fundraiser for Habilitat is happening now and open through 6 p.m. Aug. 1.
Stephanie SalmonsJuly 16, 2025
Ocean acidification study predicts bleak future for Hawai‘i corals
UH Mānoa study modeled effects of ocean acidification on Hawai‘i's marine ecosystems.
Michael BrestovanskyJuly 16, 2025
Local artist adds gyotaku art – Japanese fish printing – to portfolio
Oʻahu resident Jade Fernandez started Hapa Girl Studio in 2020 to showcase her digital prints of surfer girls, which grew to include Hawai’i flowers, plants and birds. Now, she’s working on an exclusive collection for Made in Hawai’i Festival, which will feature gyotaku art – a traditional Japanese fish printing method.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJuly 16, 2025
Hawai‘i Green Growth’s new CEO shares mission, priorities
Kailua-born and raised Kalani Kaʻanāʻanā, a former Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority executive, talks about what initially drew him to the organization focused on advancing statewide and global sustainability goals. Only a week in the role, he offers insights on collaboration and community-building to help implement such objectives by 2030.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJuly 15, 2025
Hawai‘i Leadership Forum expands its Leaders Lab to Neighbor Islands
The immersive one-day labs will be held Oct. 28 on Kaua‘i; Nov. 7 on Maui; and Dec. 3, on Hawai‘i Island. You have until noon Friday, Aug. 1, to apply.
Stephanie SalmonsJuly 14, 2025
Kauaʻi resort launches scholarship program
Leadership at Grand Hyatt Kauaʻi Resort & Spa share why they are investing in continued education of its employees and their dependents.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJuly 14, 2025
Waimānalo Beach Parkʻs campgrounds get new name
Learn about the groundskeeper, George Keʻa Mahoe Jr., who was honored this week by the Department of Parks and Recreation for a 40-year career working at beach parks across East Oʻahu.
Katie HellandJuly 12, 2025
Community Voices: Built through brotherhood and meaningful moments
A personal essay by Makawao Eagle Scout Noah Kalehuawehe, who recently received the 2025 John Henry Felix Leadership Through Service Award.
Noah KalehuaweheJuly 12, 2025
Insect-A-Palooza flies into Honolulu
Do your keiki love insects? This event, presented by Patagonia Honolulu and the University of Hawaiʻi Insect Museum, gives kids of all ages a chance to learn about native bugs.
Katie HellandJuly 11, 2025
Medical distributor Henry Schein opens in Honolulu
The newly opened distribution center in the former R. Weinstein space on Oʻahu offers next-day delivery of medical products — vaccines, surgical supplies and equipment — for health care practitioners across Hawai’i.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJuly 11, 2025
Giveaway: KHVH News Radio’s cash contest presented by Aloha State Daily
Listen to KHVH weekdays for your chance to win $1,000. Offer expires July 25.
Kady PascualJuly 11, 2025
"Sharing Aloha" documentary to premiere next month
The film shares the stories of student workers who perform at the Polynesian Cultural Center. The nonprofit attraction's ticket sales cover daily operations and support the education of student employees at the nearby Brigham Young University - Hawaiʻi.
Katie HellandJuly 11, 2025
Feast on burgers and Mai Tais for a good cause
For every featured burger and Mai Tai sold at resorts like The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort and Sheraton Waikīkī Beach Resort, $1 will be donated to the Children’s Miracle Network at Kapiʻolani Medical Center for Women & Children.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 10, 2025
Three-city benefit concert tour to kick off in Lahaina
From Aug. 15 to 16, the Hua Momona Foundation will host its second annual Maui Music & Food Experience at the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa, showcasing nationwide musicians and chefs. Proceeds from the tour will go toward the foundation’s efforts to address food insecurity and invest in youth music programs on Maui.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJuly 09, 2025
How to help ʻohana following the Māʻili wildfire
A GoFundMe page has been created for the Ahuna family, which lost their dog, home and event business equipment, in the blaze this past weekend in Waiʻanae. A GoFundMe was also created for the family of a 94-year-old woman who died of fire injuries. Gov. Josh Green comments on fire response and Aloha State Daily lists a few resources for those who were impacted.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJuly 08, 2025
Lānaʻi resident Vince Cabanilla bridges art and community
The Lānaʻi Art Center is a nonprofit art gallery offering spaces for keiki to kūpuna to create and come together. Aloha State Daily spoke with the center’s co-director Vince Cabanilla about challenges, upcoming events and how art has helped to heal those affected by the 2023 Lahaina fire.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJuly 08, 2025
Jamba Hawaiʻi offers new program that supports local nonprofits
Owned and operated by Fresh Dining Concepts LLC, Jamba Hawaiʻi recently launched its Blend it Forward program to support nonprofits across the Islands. This month, the company will donate proceeds to Boys & Girls Club of Hawaiʻi for every Mango-A-Go-Go and Watermelon Breeze smoothies sold at participating locations.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJuly 07, 2025
Royal Hawaiian Center's Sam Shenkus recognized
Shenkus recently received the 2025 ICSC Trustees' Distinguished Service Award, the highest volunteer recognition from the International Council of Shopping Centers. Aloha State Daily recently spoke with Shenkus about her award, career and community service.
Stephanie SalmonsJuly 07, 2025
Honolulu-based author wins national award
Alice Inoue is a life coach, business founder and astrologer. The award-winning author just added another accolade to her career, an award for her newest book “Daily Mindful Moments: A Year of Life Wisdom.”
Katie HellandJuly 04, 2025
Fundraising progresses for new documentary spotlighting Hawaiʻi soldiers who share aloha
Filmmaker Steve Sue, founder and chairman of ID8, which is the nonprofit producing “The 100th: Seeds of Aloha,” shares the story of the 100th Infantry Battalion unit that fought in World War II. Sue provides an update about this project and the trilogy it's part of that largely relies on donor support.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJuly 04, 2025
Hawaiʻi Police Department is collecting new backpacks now through July 20
New and unfilled backpacks may be dropped off at any Hawaiʻi Island police station, as part of HPD's annual backpack drive for keiki getting ready to go back to school. This community initiative is in partnership with Hope Services Hawaiʻi, a nonprofit agency committed to ending homelessness.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJuly 03, 2025
Romer House Waikīkī set to launch Après Surf
The hotel says the new community surf club — hosted by pro surfers Meg Godinez and Makoa Kaleiki Ho — is inspired by the "spirit of après ski culture," or the social activities after a day of skiing.
Stephanie SalmonsJuly 02, 2025
Meet this year’s grand marshals of the Kailua Village Independence Day Parade
Kona-based community leaders Frank and Laura Mallery-Sayre will proceed down the parade route starting at 6 p.m. on Friday, July 4. The pair founded The Daniel Sayre Memorial Foundation in 1997, which has raised funds for the fire departments on Maui and Hawai’i Island.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJuly 02, 2025
Bloomberg Philanthropies selects Honolulu as finalist in global competition
The City and County of Honolulu will receive $50,000 to prototype a program that would add new rooftops and community gardens to public places, including its new rail line, as part of a plan to grow fresh produce for underserved populations.
Katie HellandJuly 01, 2025
Global Christian organization delivers housing to ʻohana in Lahaina
Samaritan’s Purse staff and volunteers, along with the local community, gathered Saturday to welcome three Maui families home. Since the 2023 Lahaina wildfire, the relief organization has donated 41 tons of supplies and equipment; rebuilt five homes, with 16 more underway; and deployed hundreds of volunteers to assist with ongoing recovery efforts.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJuly 01, 2025
Mark your calendars for Mari’s Gardens Summer Fair on July 19
The summer event in Mililani will feature more than 50 vendors, keiki activities and, of course, plants. Mari’s Gardens Manager Mariko Lau shares what to expect, where to park and more about the family business.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 28, 2025
Hawai‘i experts disagree on interstate telehealth to solve doctor shortage — here's why
In this deep dive, Aloha State Daily spoke with Grassroot Institute of Hawaiʻi Policy Director Malia Hill and Wellness Partners Hawaiʻi President and CEO Bradley Kuo on the issue of permitting out-of-state physicians to treat local patients.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 27, 2025
Kauaʻi artisan has fun with feathers
Diane Mitsuyasu-Masumura, owner of Weslyn’s Creative Feather, has created traditional Hawaiian lei hulu, feather accessories, lauhala ornaments and more since 1989. She shares her process and about preparations for the upcoming Made in Hawaiʻi Festival, which sheʻs participated in since it started 31 years ago.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 25, 2025
Hawai‘i Foodbank Kaua‘i goes mobile
The nonprofit's new "grocery-style food pantry on wheels" will bring food to rural and underserved communities across the Garden Island.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 25, 2025
New oceanfront chapel opens in Waikīkī
A new destination wedding venue called Kahawai Chapel, located at the Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort, opened this month. Learn more about its unique offerings catered toward the visitor market, while rooted in Hawaiian culture, from chapel general manager Takeshi Miyamoto.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 23, 2025