Author Archives: Catherine Cluett Pactol

County Restricts Public Access at Kapaʻakea Cemetery

Thursday, April 2nd, 2026

Maui County News Release

The County of Maui Department of Public Works is restricting general public access to Kapaʻakea Cemetery in Kaunakakai following significant impacts from the March 2026 Kona low storms.

“Kapaʻakea Cemetery is an important place for Molokai families,” Mayor Richard Bissen said. “We are focused on addressing the damage and supporting families as work moves forward. Mahalo to our Molokai community for its patience and understanding during this time.”

Recent heavy rains caused substantial ground settlement across many burial plots at Kapaʻakea Cemetery. While some settling can occur during periods of rainfall, the severity of these impacts is greater than previously experienced.…

County Office of Recovery Leading Storm Recovery 

Thursday, April 2nd, 2026

Maui County News Release

The County of Maui Office of Recovery, established by Mayor Richard Bissen in the wake of the 2023 Maui wildfires, is taking on long-term recovery efforts from subsequent emergencies and natural disasters, such as the recent Kona storms.

“Expanding the County of Maui Office of Recovery’s focus to oversee long-term recovery for all disasters ensures that our community isn’t just reacting in the moment, but staying committed to rebuilding for the future,” Bissen said. “It creates the focus and continuity needed for the county to truly see recovery efforts through.”

The website www.mauirecovers.org, focused on resources and planning efforts relating to recovery and wildfire rebuilding information, will launch a new Kona storm recovery section this weekend including information from Kona low events and any other disaster that will require long-term recovery.…

Call for Artists: Fiber Hawaii

Thursday, April 2nd, 2026

Hawaii Craftsmen News Release 

“Fiber Hawaiʻi” began as a biennial event in 1982. The Fiber Hawaii exhibit challenges artists to create works “In, Of or About Fiber.” Artists who work in any craft media are invited to consider making artwork with a fiber sensibility. 

Fiber and textile techniques may be thought of as an idea as well as a media. Past exhibits have included woven glass or clay, wood and metal as well as works in more traditional fiber media such as weavings, handmade paper, basketry, stitchery, quilts, batik, textile design, kapa. mixed media, wearable art and installation pieces are also eligible for entry.…

Molokai Robotics Launches Fundraiser for Worlds

Thursday, April 2nd, 2026

Molokai Robotics News Release

Molokai Robotics is proud to announce that two of its teams — one middle school and one high school division — have officially qualified for the prestigious VEX Robotics World Championship, set to take place in St Louis, Missouri from April 21 to 27. This marks the third consecutive year and fourth total time that the program has qualified for a robotics world championship.

However, attending the world championship presents a significant financial challenge. Travel costs — including airfare, lodging, registration, and equipment transport — are substantial. The program is launching a fundraising campaign with a goal of $40,000 to ensure both qualified teams can attend and compete.…