Lisa Payne, owner of Hana Hou by Hale Zen in Lahaina, recentlyhosted a public book-signing with Maui-based author Alana Kysar celebrating the release of her newest cookbook, Aloha Veggies. The guests met the author, had books signed, and enjoyed complimentary pupus throughout the evening made from the author’s recipes.
“We love creating gatherings that bring people together around beautiful things,” said Payne. “Hosting Kysar at the shop felt like a natural fit and a wonderful way to share an evening of conversation, food and inspiration with our community.”
Hana Hou by Hale Zen reopened in November 2024 in Emerald Plaza after the original Hale Zen boutique was lost in the August 2023 Lahaina wildfire. The store became the first retail business to reopen after being lost in the fire, offering a welcoming space for residents and visitors to reconnect through thoughtful shopping and community gatherings.
Payne said, “Thankfully, our warehouse and office location in Emerald Plaza was spared, so we had a base of operation. With the assistance of dozens of vendors, we hosted free shopping events there to help hundreds of Lahaina fire victims.We were honored to host Maui-based author Alana Kysar as she celebrates her new book, Aloha Veggies. It’s so much more than just a cookbook. It’s a love letter to Hawai’i, the food, traditions, and farmers. Kysar’s work is deeply rooted in Hawai’i and it shimmers on every page of this beautiful book. Her previous book, Aloha Kitchen, has been a personal favorite of mine since its 2019 release and remains a bestseller at our store. We’re excited to help her launch Aloha Veggies!”
Kysar added, “I’m always trying to build my meals around what’s locally sourced. Farming isn’t an easy business but it’s so vital that we, as a community, do what we can to support local farms. In my book, Aloha Veggies, I profiled five farms throughout Hawai’i to showcase the wide range of crops that can be grown here, and how rich and diverse the culinary space is on the islands. I believe that it’s still constantly evolving, and I feel lucky to play a small role in both preserving and contributing to it.”
You can tell how much Lisa loves the Lahaina community. Her enthusiasm really comes through in all she does. Both of us explore and are inspired by the cultural influences that shape our community.
Alana Kysar, Maui author of Aloha Veggies and Aloha Kitchen
The Hawaiʻi State Public Library System is now modernized. New resources such as e-books and audiobooks are accessible via user-friendly apps on smartphones. This modern approach allows patrons to borrow materials without waiting in line or even stepping foot inside if they prefer digital access. The library inspires curiosity and creates opportunities for all to read, learn, and connect with almost any subject imaginable. Rooted in the ʻohana spirit, the library embodies aloha, cultural richness, and the environmental beauty of Hawaiʻi through its books, digital collections, community programming, and welcoming spaces. It boasts an extensive collection that spans many genres, from standard references to contemporary fiction and much more.
“We also have a new, fully operational library on wheels, Holo Holo Bookmobile, that visits schools, senior centers, and community sites,” said Tracy Latimer, Kihei Library Branch Manager. “Plus, all Maui library branches now offer personalized free in-person or virtual tech assistance to help residents with devices, online job applications, and safety tools via the Digital Navigator Program.”
The Maui Public Library stands as a beacon for knowledge seekers and community members alike. It’s not just a building filled with books. It’s a vibrant hub where stories come alive, ideas flourish, and connections are made. Included in the library’s updates is a new library card with a new logo inspired by traditional Hawaiian art and kappa patterns. Al branches also host numerous events throughout the year.
Latimer shared, “In Kihei, we offer author readings, workshops on everything from gardening to technology skills, art exhibits showcasing local talent, and book clubs that ignite passionate discussions among participants. These gatherings create an inviting atmosphere where everyone can share their love for literature or learn something new together. There are spaces dedicated specifically for community meetings or study groups equipped with wi-fi access so people can collaborate effectively on projects or simply connect over shared interests. Moreover, staff members are always ready with recommendations tailored to individual tastes.”
In essence, visiting the Maui Public Library isn’t merely about borrowing books. It’s about immersing oneself in a rich tapestry woven from diverse narratives written and spoken by fellow islanders who call this place home.
In addition to books, there are specialized activities each day of the week including movie matinees and story-time for keiki. Also, on May 29th, all are invited to the 30-year anniversary of the Kihei Library. The all-day celebration includes visits from dignitaries, entertainers, and more. Come to the library!
Tracy Latimer, Kihei Public Library Branch Manager
Founded in the wake of the August 2023 Kula wildfire that claimed 20 homes and scorched over 200 acres of Upcountry property, the nonprofit Mālama Kula is still committed to serving their Upcountry community. Mālama (care for) Kula is well-known for being action-oriented and results-driven while also being quick to adapt to new challenges, such as the recent Kona low storms.
“The need in our Upcountry community became glaringly apparent when we watched our town nearly go up in flames,” said Kyle Ellison, Executive Director of Mālama Kula. “Since the day of the fire, we have been leading the cleanup and recovery effort, providing green waste services, metal removal, clearing of downed trees, and creation of wood chips for erosion mitigation. We regularly help property owners clean up from the fire and get time and hope back in their lives. Even once the fire cleanup is complete, which could take years, we will provide disaster relief and cleanup while working on removal of fire fuels to mitigate future hazards. We also planted dozens of native tree species like koa, ‘ōhi‘a, ‘ilima, and ‘ilie‘e as well as non-native vetiver grass, which is used along hillsides to stabilize soil and help minimize erosion and runoff.”
Since the very first days after the 2023 Kula Fire, volunteers have been the beating heart of the ongoing Upcountry recovery. Residents are beyond grateful for their selfless nature and the numerous Mālama Kula programs helping them. Ellison said, “That’s what we are here for, to serve our community. That’s the way it should be!”
Mālama Kula continuously needs volunteers and funding. “We had the Crater Road Fire in July of 2025, and there have been multiple smaller fires since then that we’re very lucky didn’t grow any bigger,” Ellison added. “While programs that are months or years in the future are certainly important parts of this response, we also need to prioritize work that addresses these hazards today. We need to provide the community with tools and increased access to green waste facilities that can aid in responsible land management. It’s incumbent upon our entire community to protect not just our own properties and ‘ohana, but our neighbors and community around us.”
Wildfires are not the only natural disaster that the organization is addressing. After the Kona low storms in March 2026, which brought flooding and high winds to Kula and left many residents without power for days, Mālama Kula immediately took action. They coordinated clean-up crews across 50 properties, working to clear downed trees that were blocking roads and damaging homes. They also gave away free wood chips to homeowners to help prevent soil erosion and stabilize gulches.
Interested volunteers can visit https://malamakula.org to join one of Mālama Kula’s service projects, community work days, and social gatherings. Updates can also be found on their Instagram page, @malamakula.
We provide programs to meet the challenges facing the area’s rural and agricultural economy, plus social networking and educational events that foster and strengthen community.
Kyle Ellison, Executive Director, Mālama Kula
With his team of volunteers, Maui resident Scott Hansen, Executive Director and CEO of Maui Rescue Mission (MRM), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, provides assistance and essential help to the houseless on Maui. Hansen serves alongside his ‘ohana with a deep respect for the people, culture, and land.
“MRM is led with an emphasis on presence, cultural sensitivity, and accountability to the communities served,” Hansen noted. “Across the moku (districts) of Maui, we work to uplift individuals experiencing houselessness with compassion, humility, and an enduring commitment to doing the work the right way.”
A groundbreaking mobile concept, MRM provides access to private hot showers, along with laundry services and similar resources for the guests they serve. They offer a hygiene trailer that is equipped with two stacked washer-dryer units and a full private bathroom. Also provided are first aid items, clothing, meals and nutrition, a cell phone charging station, friendship, and support. Hansen understands the unique needs of the communities he serves.
“As a rescue mission, we are connected to a larger network of community ministries,” he said. “Our weekly outreaches also serve as resource hubs, as we invite various community agencies to offer their support to our guests. For example, these relationships allow us to refer clients looking to detoxify. Together with our partners and other agencies, we are able to help clients get into different rehabilitation programs, since many of them are struggling with a combination of physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual needs.
Currently, MRM serves three outreach locations weekly: Kalama Beach Park in Kihei, 10-2pm on Mondays; Cut Mountain Lahaina Bypass, 10am-2pm on Tuesdays; and Kanaha Beach Park in Kahului, 10am-2pm on Thursdays. In alternate weeks, the times are 11am-1pm at the same locations with modified services.
Hansen added, “We at MRM understand that each person’s situation is different. Our approach is to provide basic needs with dignity, compassion, and consistency. By building a trusting relationship with each of our guests we provide a support system that gives them hope and encouragement when they need it most. Please join us as a volunteer, donor, or partner to bring hope and tangible help across the island of Maui.”
Those interested in getting involved can visit http://mauirescuemission.org for more information.
Our vision is to build trust, facilitate healing, and guide individuals towards a new life, offering a path of hope and transformation.
Scott Hansen, Executive Director, Maui Rescue Mission
The Sheraton Waikīkī’s conference venue was packed with middle and high school students, including many from Maui Nui, for the 17th annual Hawaiʻi STEM Conference on April 15th and 16th. Organized by STEMworks™, a program of Maui Economic Development Board (MEDB), the 2-day event is the program’s largest student career awareness and teacher professional development event of the year. The 2026 conference welcomed a total of 612 attendees from all across the state despite moving to a smaller venue due to the closure of the Hawaiʻi Convention Center. Many of the workshops were standing room only, showing the high demand for engaging, industry-led STEM education opportunities among both students and teachers.
One of the highlights of the conference this year was the interactive exhibit hall, referred to as the “playground.” Over 30 companies and organizations tabled in the playground, representing a wide range of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) career pathways and educational opportunities, including healthcare, engineering, computer science, aviation, ocean science, and natural resource management.
Students and teachers benefitted from the expertise of over 60 STEM industry guest speakers who led 38 student sessions and 9 teacher workshops. Keynote addresses were also presented by Caitlin Sarian, a global cybersecurity expert known as @cybersecuritygirl online, and Maile Miyake, a graphic designer and entrepreneur from Kauaʻi.
In light of this year’s conference theme, “Navigating Change,” many guest speakers focused on helping students learn about artificial intelligence (AI) tools and how to use them effectively and responsibly. One student attendee commented, “I learned about how AI can be used for chatbots and to improve our time efficiency when it comes to repetitive actions.” Another student shared, “My favorite session was creating a custom AI. It was cool to be able to create an AI that I could make do anything.”
Over 40 industry professionals also joined the students for an hour of speed networking. Students were encouraged to ask the professionals about their careers, educational backgrounds, and paths to their current roles. One teacher observed, “The best part of the event is being able to take my students to experience avenues of career choices connected to STEM. It was great to see how much they took in from this conference.”
Students traveled from all islands to participate in the event, with 196 of the 366 student participants coming from Maui County, including Molokai and Lānaʻi. Among the 82 teachers at the conference, 50 were from Maui County. STEMworks is proud to offer financial support to neighbor island students and teachers for travel costs thanks to the program’s many donors, grant funders, and event sponsors.
Gabe Amey, founder and director of Our Kūpuna, is always concerned about Hawaiʻi’s elderly. During the Covid-19 pandemic, he asked himself, “How can I help?” The answer is this service. Our Kūpuna was developed to serve a need in the community during a very uncertain time. It was launched statewide on March 23, 2020 as a community project and became an official 501(c)3 nonprofit organization under the Hawaiʻi VA Foundation. Currently, their mission is to continue to connect Hawaiʻi’s kūpuna with volunteer sponsors to help them with their daily needs.
“Unfortunately, not all seniors in Hawaiʻi have ‘ohana on-island to look out for them,” said Amey. “Many kūpuna are isolated, and everyday tasks, such as getting groceries, prescriptions, and other chores have become impossible for them to do alone. We are currently serving kūpuna, 65 years and older, and we want to get the word out more about our organization. Plus, at the moment, we desperately need more volunteers!”
The staff members at Our Kūpuna screen and manage all of their volunteers. If everything works out, they connect them with kūpuna in their area. Their motto, “one-to-one,” creates a special relationship with their network of volunteers in the field and the kūpuna they are helping.
Kūpuna Janice said, “I was struggling alone before my volunteer came. She is sweet and kind, and I’m so happy for her assistance.” Kūpuna Ted shared, “I not only get help with my shopping, my volunteer also brings it up the stairs for me, which helps a lot!” Kūpuna Christina added, “I’m very thankful and grateful for the Our Kūpuna program and my volunteer. What a joy!”
Director Amey emphasized, “The service is free. Sponsors call their kūpuna weekly to see if they need any necessary supplies and to ensure kūpuna do not have to battle crowds at the grocery stores or struggle to get to other public places. It is about making sure the kūpuna have what they need and the assurance that they are cared for.”
Interested kūpuna and volunteers can find more information online at OurKupuna.com, or call 808-400-4506.
All volunteers and sponsors are doing this to help in the community because so many kūpuna need support and friendship.
Gabe Amey, Our Kūpuna, Founder and Director
Mauna Kahālāwai, commonly referred to as the West Maui Mountains, is an ancient, heavily eroded shield volcano rising to 5,788 feet at the summit of Puʻu Kukui. Receiving over 380 inches of rain a year, Puʻu Kukui is one of the wettest spots on Earth, and that rainfall is filtered down through bogs, shrublands, and critical watershed forests. The Mauna Kahālāwai Watershed Partnership’s (MKWP) mission is to protect these resources to ensure that West Maui has a continuous supply of water for generations to come.
The MKWP is a voluntary alliance protecting 50,000 acres of West Maui mountains, which provide 75% of West Maui’s freshwater. Established in 1998 through a voluntary alliance of state, county, and private landowners, its purpose is to reverse the negative trend of forest degradation caused by numerous threats. MKWP protects and restores native ecosystems, the forested watershed, and the freshwater supply through cooperative management of fencing, watershed health, removal of invasive species, storm management, and public education. The watershed acts like a sponge and is vital for Maui’s water supply; without protection, the forest covering the watershed will continue to degrade due to the impacts of invasive species.
“Healthy watersheds are blanketed by healthy native forests,” said Chris Brosius, MKWP Program Manager. “In a pristine native forest, trees, shrubs, ferns, and mosses are intimately intertwined. The many layers of vegetation capture moisture from fog and passing clouds and soak up falling rain. While some of this water gently flows over the surface of the land to be filtered into streams, the underground network of roots helps water percolate down through the soil and recharge our aquifers.”
The work that MKWP does also protects and preserves approximately 150 rare and endangered flora and fauna, some of which are found nowhere else in the world. Brosius added, “We invite the public to help with stewardship activities to protect the area’s natural ecosystem and cultural heritage. We offer opportunities for groups, clubs, classes, or teams who want to volunteer with us and monthly volunteer service trips at both our Waiheʻe Ridge and Olowalu Valley restoration sites.”
We highly encourage public involvement through our outreach and educational programs so that the people on Maui have opportunities to experience and understand why watersheds, our native ecosystems, and cultural stewardship are all important.
Chris Brosius, Program Manager, Mauna Kahālāwai Watershed Partnership
Bringing together leaders, policymakers, cooperatives, and energy innovators, the 2026 Hawaii Energy Conference will discuss pathways to resilience and sustainability using firm (dispatchable source) power, while incorporating the lessons learned from successful indigenous projects.
From geothermal in Hawaii to energy projects on tribal lands and cooperative models across the U.S. and New Zealand, participants will share experiences and strategies for advancing energy solutions while maintaining harmony with local landscapes and traditions.
A deep dive session will explore the topic of Water & Energy in a more intimate setting for up to 40 people. A panel will discuss current and emerging options for seawater desalination, the status of desalination plans on Oahu and Maui, and the energy challenges that influence the feasibility and cost of these technologies.
Attendees at HEC2026 will engage in meaningful dialogue on how policy, technology, and cultural wisdom can shape a resilient and more affordable energy future across all generations.
For young people who choose not to pursue a college degree, Job Corps offers alternative options as the largest free, residential education and job training program in the US. Providing comprehensive pathways to stable careers, they offer not only educational services but also housing, food, medical care, and career counseling to participants. Maui’s own Job Corps center is in Makawao.
Maui Job Corps specialist Hiʻilani Bush works to ensure that Maui community members understand and take advantage of Job Corps programs. “The Maui Job Corps campus offers programs that provide vocational, academic, and employability skills to students, ages 16 to 24, at no cost to them,” Bush said. “The program also provides free housing, meals, transportation services, and stipends. We provide support and guidance in a variety of pathways, including college, military service, direct employment, and pre-apprenticeships with advanced training at other centers in the community. Our amazing facility and programs are filled with resources to help start careers. Studies show Job Corps increases participants’ earnings with programs that focus on in-demand industries, which all lead to recognized certification. Most participants find a second home, structure, and confidence to build a better future.”
With a focus on vocational training and job placement, Maui Job Corps supports young adults with certification programs in office administration, hospitality, culinary arts, and construction. Bush recalled, “After completing the Office Administration program, one student earned her high school diploma and became employed full-time at the company she interned at. A 2025 Maui High School graduate who gained hands-on experience as a power plant operator now works full time at Hawaiian Electric.”
A Maui Job Corps graduate shared, “My experience put me on the path to become a better person and gave me the skills I needed to succeed in life. I joined the pre-apprenticeship for carpenters. I was not only making money, but was, in fact, thriving as a young adult. It taught me patience, perseverance and instilled in my core what it meant to have pride in my work. I will forever be grateful to the men and women who were responsible for helping me better myself.”
Those interested can find more information about the Job Corps programs available on Maui online at https://maui.jobcorps.gov/.
We’re here to help Maui students thrive. Our 2-year program offers education and certification, providing full support for each student.
Hiʻilani Bush, Marketing Specialist, Maui Job Corps
