Makahiki, the ancient Hawaiian season known as the Hawaiian New Year, is a four-lunar-month period from October or November to February or March, depending on the year. The rising of Makaliʻi (the constellation also known as the Pleiades) at sunset marks the beginning of Makahiki, and the season is recognized as a time of harmony, plenty, relaxation, and Hawaiian-style games. It is also a time to honor the Hawaiian god Lono, who represents fertility, agriculture, and peace. Native Hawaiians have a unique relationship with land and culture deeply rooted in the concept of kuleana, a responsibility and privilege to care for and protect the land and the community to which they belong.
At family-run Nohoʻana Farm, situated on two acres of kuleana land (traditional ahupuaʻa management), Makahiki gratitude is observed as a way of life. “It is a time of reflection to hone our farming practice and to honor the bounty of what the ‘āina offers us,” said Hōkūao Pellegrino, owner and manager of Nohoʻana Farm. “Knowing the ‘āina provides all year long, we need to have a level of consciousness that shows gratitude for what Lono gives to us. Makahiki is about sharing and bringing the community together both for education and for fun events.”
Vincent Mina, co-owner of Kahanu ‘Āina Greens, also walks the talk and has boldly stepped into numerous leadership roles that allow him to teach residents how to transform food systems in Hawaiʻi. His longtime mission has been to promote life-nurturing practices for good health through education and outreach.
“Makahiki, a new year to share love, is a time of appreciation and gratefulness,” Mina reflected. “My vision is to bring the latest scientific research and Hawaiian regenerative agriculture practices for wellness and soil cultivation to the Maui farming community, and to raise awareness of the relationship between our bodies and the soil from which our food is grown.”
Today, the spirit of Makahiki is also celebrated through yearly events and traditions such as Festivals of Aloha. One of the next events, Wailuku First Friday on November 7 from 6pm to 9pm, will usher in a vibrant evening dedicated to community, culture, and connection to the land.
Wailuku First Friday will highlight the richness of Maui-made and Maui-grown offerings directly to the local ‘ohana.
Vincent Mina, Farmer and Co-owner, Kahanu ‘Āina Greens
Kula Country Farms, a family-run upcountry business on Kula Highway, is a favorite stop for both locals and tourists alike. Chauncey Monden, a graduate from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa and a fourth-generation farmer, took over the family farm in 1998 when his father retired. His wife Teena runs their open-air farm stand that is stocked with their home-grown strawberries, onions, assorted vegetables, pumpkins, fresh-baked good, and more. Most recently, their daughter Tess opened a smoothie, tea, and coffee truck next to the farm stand.
“We started the stand because we wanted to promote local agriculture and to sell directly to customers,” Chauncey said. “Our specialty crops like year-round strawberries give us that opportunity. One of the benefits of being a farmer is the gratification you feel when you produce a consistent product that people keep coming back for.”
Teena’s creativity keeps the stand continually growing, which helps keep the farm going. “Twice a year, usually April and October, the farm allows visitors to pick their own fresh strawberries,” Teena noted. “During the fall, the farm opens its now-famous pumpkin patch to literally thousands of residents looking for fresh gourds or pumpkins for Halloween. All ages love it!”
The stand’s product line is always increasing, and the Mondens are exploring new ways to hold events at the farm. “Everything is fresh from our fields, and some homegrown items are from our neighbors,” Teena added. “On the third Saturday of each month, Kula Country Farms hosts a popular craft fair with locally made items. In addition, we can host weddings and special events.”
Naturally, there are always challenges. The Mondens shared that the market has changed, finding employees has become more challenging, and supplies needed for farming are more expensive than ever. Even the weather has altered over time. “Still, we have a deep commitment to continue our farming legacy and to support agriculture on Maui.”
Chauncey and Teena have hosted students as part of the STEMworks Agriculture Business and Technology Internship Program to help foster the next generation of farmers. “We believe that the internship experience provides valuable work-based learning for students who not only gain technical skills but also have the chance to explore career pathways in different ag fields,” they said. “The students learn about hard work, patience, and most importantly, gratefulness.”
Our intent is to grow fresh, flavorful produce in Maui soil, and set the stage for economic sustainability.
Chauncey and Teena Monden, Kula Country Farms
Native Hawaiian astrophysicist Dr. Brittany Kamai brought a wealth of information and wonder to the participants of the 8th annual 2025 EMER-GEN program at the Wailea Beach Resort-Marriott on September 14-16. EMER-GEN, a joint initiative of the AMOS Conference (presented by Maui Economic Development Board) and the Space Generation Advisory Council, launched in 2018 to foster innovation and entrepreneurship for young professionals and college-level students enthusiastic about careers in space.
Kamai shared her perspective on how traditional voyaging connects ancestral wisdom to the present-day space industry, especially in Hawaiʻi. “We, as Pacific voyagers, are on a journey, sailing to islands and around the world, or going back to the Moon, while navigating by the ideals of our ancestral past. When we truly acknowledge this insight, when we are aware of the extensive threats to our planet, and to outer space, the next logical step is to create a new vision, a sustainable plan based on values of interconnectedness, respect and stewardship.”
Kamai explained that the purpose of the world-famous Hōkūleʻa project was to build a performance-accurate deep-sea voyaging canoe and sail it without external instruments between Hawaiʻi and Tahiti. “It’s been a cultural revitalization initiative by the Polynesian Voyaging Society centered around the Hōkūleʻa, a traditional double-hulled sailing canoe launched in 1975 to revive ancient Polynesian wayfinding traditions, language, and culture. The project, and its numerous other voyages, aims to connect people, educate on environmental stewardship, and inspire a sustainable future for the planet. We need to be globally minded and locally focused.”
Matthew Lugo, a local aerospace engineer with Privateer Space, said, “Our Hawaiian ancestors got to Hawaiʻi by way of star navigation. Currently, space observations from Hawaiʻi are also unlocking the key to the universe’s mapping and offer scientists the ability to calculate distances between celestial bodies in the galaxy. Hawaiian telescopes have allowed scientists to make some of humanity’s most important space discoveries in the last 50 years, pertaining to dark matter, black holes, asteroids, exoplanets, and more.”
Katherine Stevens, an engineer for Maui High Performance Computing Center and member of this year’s EMER-GEN program committee, added, “Kamai portrayed respect for the culture by going back to its roots and being one with the community. She has successfully woven the importance of our past cultural achievements with her career as an astrophysicist.”
I have a Ph.D. in astrophysics, but that didn’t teach me how to get between Hawaiʻi and Tahiti using the stars. It’s a totally different knowledge system. We need both!
Dr. Brittany Kamai, Astrophysicist, Founder of Mana Moana Institute
Can one person really make a difference for Maui’s marine environment? The local nonprofit, Maui Nui Marine Resource Council (MNMRC) says yes! They work locally through partnerships, community involvement, and education to address threats to Maui’s reefs and nearshore ocean environment. MNMRC helps protect shorelines from storm surge and erosion, ensuring that Maui’s surrounding ocean can continue to support wildlife, provide food, and support thousands of marine jobs.
“Regrettably, according to the State of Hawaiʻi Department of Health, Maui has one of Hawaiʻi’s most polluted coastal waters,” said Sara Sugidono, MNMRC Communications and Development Director. “Many of the threats begin on land. Protecting them from mauka to makai is MNMRC’s priority so that our reefs will be here for generations to come.”
Sugidono emphasized the impact that single individuals can have on ocean protection, highlighting the story of Hope Gonzolez, who grew up visiting her Maui grandparents. “Gonzalez is an award-winning business owner, entrepreneur, college student, and volunteer. She began her passion for conservation as a 6th grader when she noticed changing water conditions and decreased turtle and fish populations at Honokeana Bay. Her story is an inspiring example of how one person can become a force for good by starting with an idea and small actions.” While still in high school, Gonzalez launched SPF805, a clothing brand dedicated to educating people on the importance of coral reefs. Gonzalez has committed to donating a percentage of the profit from each purchase to MNMRC.
Gonzalez noted, “Every day, I’d snorkel the same reef. I would see similar turtles and fish, and every time I came back, there were fewer fish and turtles, and the area’s once vibrantly-colored coral reefs were turning a dull, whitish color. I saw it firsthand and wanted to do something about it. Now is the time, because our oceans and reefs are at a critical turning point. We can help by pursuing marine science and other STEM-related fields, volunteer for beach cleanups, use reef-safe sunscreen, reusable bags and water bottles, donate to non-profits working in ocean conservation, etc. The value of working together to make a positive impact on the community is priceless.”
I am dedicated to teaching people the reality of what is happening to our oceans and how they can help. Each one of us can make a difference!
Hope Gonzalez, Owner and Founder, SPF805
This week marks two years since the devastating Lahaina and Kula wildfires of August 8, 2023. We honor the lives lost, the resilience of our community, and the ongoing efforts towards healing. Maui Economic Development Board remains committed to supporting the people and businesses working to rebuild their homes and livelihoods. Together, we continue to rise with strength and aloha.
With headquarters at Honokohau Bay on Fleming Beach, the Kahākūkahi Foundation has built a community that empowers keiki (youth) through ocean sports, environmental stewardship, and a deep connection to the ʻāina (land) and kai (sea). Founded in 2000 by Zane Kekoa Schweitzer, the nonprofit has equipped their facility with surfboards, stand-up boards, windsurfers, and outrigger canoes for the keiki to enjoy while learning about ocean safety and marine science. Their programs run Monday to Saturday, 11am-5pm.
Schweitzer grew up in the Maui ocean. He has earned approximately 15 world championships in water sports and is a two-time Ultimate Waterman. His unique experiences, from traveling around the world for international competitions, to team-building, to ocean conservation, inspired him to publish his first book, Beneath the Surface. Beyond the waves, he collaborates with local artists, healers, and other community members who amplify the message of ocean preservation. Now, he is determined to give back to the community he loves and its future generations.
“Since the devastating 2023 Maui wildfires in Lahaina, Kahākūkahi Foundation has refocused its mission on uplifting the physical and mental well-being of the Maui keiki,” Schweitzer explained. “Since February 8, 2025, we’ve hosted over 12 different schools, over 700 students during outdoor school field trips, and over 1,500 people total including adults. We believe every child in our community should have access to these ocean activities and cultural practices, which is why we provide mentorship and all necessary equipment at no cost to them!”
With a full-time staff and structured curriculum, Kahākūkahi makes science and conservation fun, engaging, and impactful. This allows keiki to develop skills and healthy mindsets that extend into their daily lives. Along with ocean activities and environmental stewardship, the Foundation has also developed a Hawaiian language program, featuring storytelling with kupuna. Schweitzer added, “Through all our endeavors, we hope to display the conviction behind our beliefs and share it all with the wider community.”
For those interested, Kahākūkahi Foundation offers internships, scholarships, and ongoing mentorship. For more information, visit online at https://www.kahakukahifoundation.com.
At Kahākūkahi, we aim to inspire our keiki to experience the ocean and feel the connections among our islands, friends, and ‘ohana across the world. I have seen our programs uplift spirits and help heal where needed.
Zane Kekoa Schweitzer, Founder and Executive Director, Kahākūkahi Foundation
Emergency Animal Care & Help (EACH) is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit that was founded by Ayla Mader early in 2023. The Board of Directors, all women, has been working hard to provide services to low-income Maui residents who are struggling to pay for emergency veterinary bills. They have quickly gained local recognition for their work and were selected by 100 Women Who Care Maui to receive a $20,000 nonprofit award in December 2024.
“Since the tragedy of the fires that took place in August 2023, we have been using our resources to aid fire victims as well,” said Mader. “Here at EACH, we recognized that despite her small size, Maui has a huge need for more animal resources. Organizations like the Maui Humane Society need all the help they can get. There has been a huge void created by the closing of the Hawai‘i Animal Rescue Foundation at the end of 2024. EACH is here to fill in some of the gaps. We step in when animals are falling through the cracks and keep them where they belong, with their people. We make it so families do not have to euthanize or surrender their beloved pets, which also helps alleviate the strain on other organizations, including our local veterinarians. EACH wants to help not just animals, but their people and our community.”
Mader shared that Hawaiʻi has one of the highest rates of pet ownership in the US, with over 60% of households owning pets. EACH is striving to ensure that every animal is able to receive care and that pets are not neglected when ill or injured due to financial hardships. They also help educate people about pet ownership and address the root causes behind animals’ suffering on island.
“Our amazing team of regulars and part-time volunteers are committed to helping the families on Maui and their animals,” Mader added. “With aloha, we have created a solution to give animals a second chance. Seeing this urgent need on Maui, for residents and their pets, is the reason we formed our organization. Our commitment is to continue to provide solutions to the people and animals on the island. We are consistently growing, all thanks to the helping hands of our amazing Maui community.”
For more information, including how to request assistance, see a list of other Maui-based animal resources, and sign up to volunteer and donate, visit EACH online at each808.com.
EACH focuses on making the maximum positive effort for people to care for their pets. Every person, regardless of economic status, deserves to experience the love of an animal.
Ayla Mader, Founder and President, Emergency Animal Care & Help
As local, national and international communities navigate a changing energy landscape, the 12th annual Hawaii Energy Conference brings industry leaders together to offer solutions addressing the most pressing energy challenges of today.
Featuring ten dynamic panels and one Deep Dive session over two days, the program will cover topics ranging from utility-scale renewable energy deployment to community-based initiatives, and the economics and advancements of grid independence. Discussions will also tackle energy efficiency, sustainable financing strategies, alternative energy sources, job creation, training, and more.
Complementing the main stage discussions, the new Deep Dive session provides an intimate setting for up to 40 participants to engage directly with experts and explore complex issues like time-of-use rates.
The Hawaii Energy Conference offers networking and exhibiting opportunities to connect with key stakeholders, industry experts, innovators, policymakers and more. Join us on Maui to gain insights, share ideas, and collaborate on actionable solutions to building a sustainable future for Hawaii and beyond.
We are honored to have Governor Green join us as the keynote speaker at this year’s Hawaii Energy Conference.
Jacqui Hoover, Conference Chair and Executive Director and COO Hawaii Island Economic Development Board (HIEDB); and President Hawaii Leeward Planning
Olena Alec is the Executive Director of the Haleakalā Conservancy, the philanthropic partner to Haleakalā National Park. Alec leads the Conservancy’s efforts to provide funding for projects of critical importance to the park and its unique and endangered resources.
“Started in 2019, our nonprofit raises money for projects the park cannot fund,” Alec explained at a recent Kihei-Wailea Rotary meeting. “Conservation, preservation, and education are our main goals to help support our incredibly unique national park.”
Born and raised on Maui, Alec came to the Conservancy from The Climate Reality Project where she served as Director of Engagement. She also sits on the board of Students for Climate Action. She holds a Master of Public Administration in Environmental Science and Policy from Columbia University with a Bachelor of Environmental Studies from University of Southern California.
“It has been my lifelong goal to be back on Maui contributing to the community and landscape that is home,” Alec said. “The Conservancy, dedicated to raising funds specifically for the park’s initiatives, goes beyond what government funding and entrance fees can provide. Haleakalā National Park faces perennial challenges: invasive species, climate change, and a lack of sufficient government funding.”
Saving Haleakalā’s forest birds such as the kiwikiu, which is on the brink of extinction, is a current concern of the park. Extra funding supports programs that buy tools for forest biologists protecting the birds. The Conservancy also works to preserve trail space to keep people safe and on the correct paths. Alec added, “The need to provide school buses, especially for the Hawaiian immersion schools, is very important. We want the students to know that this is their park, in their backyard. We hope to continue having all Maui students visit and learn from our programs. With community support, the Conservancy’s efforts will ensure Haleakalā National Park thrives.”
For members of the public looking to support the Park, there are several options, including monetary donations and purchasing a Haleakalā specialty license plate. More info can be found online at https://www.haleakalaconservancy.org/support.
As the park’s philanthropic partner, we support programs that preserve wildlife, ecosystems, history, and culture, and we appreciate the community’s support to ensure the continued success of our conservation efforts.
Olena Alec, Executive Director, Haleakalā Conservancy
