Community

General news which affects the Molokai community in one way or another.

Boys Basketball, Girls Soccer Sweep Competition

Thursday, January 9th, 2025

Boys Basketball, Girls Soccer Sweep Competition

Coming into the new year, many Molokai High School (MHS) teams were poised to continue their stellar seasons.

After competing against top teams in the Punahou Invitational in late December, the MHS boys basketball team was back in action on Molokai with two games against Kihei Charter. Celebrating senior night on Friday, the boys put up big numbers in a 46-29 win over Kihei, with Kaizen Torres-Umi Napoleon and Tyshonn Harper leading the scoring for the Farmers. Saturday’s rematch featured more of the same, with the Farmers taking a decisive 52-40 win. This time it was Braylen Colon leading the offense with 23 points.…

Training Homegrown Healthcare Professionals

Thursday, January 9th, 2025

Training Homegrown Healthcare Professionals

When Olelo Schonely Spencer at UH Maui College Molokai launched a Clinical Medical Assistant (CMA) certification cohort program last year, she thought a couple of people might sign up.
“We didn’t really think we’d have nine right out of the gate,” said Schonely Spencer, who works as the college’s Career and Technical Education program coordinator. “[We thought] oh, just a couple, you know, just to kind of see if this is going to work. And it kind of exceeded all of our expectations.”
Those nine residents just received their certifications for free, made possible through a partnership with Good Jobs Hawaii.…

An Affirmative Start to the New Year

Thursday, January 9th, 2025

An Affirmative Start to the New Year

Kilohana School first graders in Sara Jane Larkin’s class started the new year a little differently. Instead of resolving to change something about themselves, Larkin had the students create affirmations, recognizing the good qualities that they already possess.

The affirmations take the shape of three statements “I am,” “I can” and “I will” and are followed by whatever quality the students feel fits them best. The result is a combination of the poetic and the profound, as young students profess a mantra of self-worth.

“The brain-power of an affirmation extends beyond one goal,” explained Larkin. “It’s a commitment to a certain lifestyle.”…

Proposed Legislation for Kalaupapa

Thursday, January 2nd, 2025

Hawaii Dept. of Health News Release

In preparation for the future transfer of responsibilities at Kalaupapa following the eventual conclusion of patient care, the Department of Health (DOH) is proposing draft legislation to amend Hawaii Revised Statutes (HRS) Chapter 326, which addresses Hansen’s Disease and DOH’s role at Kalaupapa. This draft legislation will be introduced during the upcoming legislative session for review and feedback from legislators and the general public.

This initial draft of the bill reflects the DOH’s preliminary recommendations, developed through years of research, collaboration with the Kalaupapa community, consultation with involved governmental agencies, and engagement with members of the public interested in Kalaupapa’s future.…

Molokai Community Health Center Expands Dental Services 

Thursday, January 2nd, 2025

Molokai Community Health Center (MCHC) is excited to announce a significant expansion of its dental services, aimed at addressing the growing oral health needs of our community. This initiative underscores MCHC’s commitment to delivering accessible dental care for Quest individuals and families across Molokai.

The expanded dental services will include additional exam rooms and state-of-the-art equipment to improve efficiency and patient care. This upgrade will ensure that more individuals can receive timely treatment, helping to meet the growing demand for dental services in the area.

This initiative not only addresses the rising demand for dental services but also emphasizes the long-term value of maintaining oral health.…

Shopping Local

Thursday, December 19th, 2024

Shopping Local

Looking for last minute gifts? Look no further. Molokai’s small businesses are churning out art, apparel, jewelry and more, without any of the hassle or cost of shipping. On the other hand, as for these businesses, they can take advantage of products like a shop mannequin. Shop mannequins can be a valuable asset for small businesses, offering a visual way to showcase products and attract customers. By displaying merchandise in a realistic and eye-catching manner, mannequins can highlight key items, boost store aesthetics, and create an inviting atmosphere. They help customers envision how products might look in real life, which can increase sales.…

RollyAnn Dolores Leilani Kaalekahi-Adams

Thursday, December 12th, 2024

RollyAnn Dolores Leilani Kaalekahi-Adams

RollyAnn Dolores Leilani Kaalekahi-Adams, affectionately known as KK, daughter of Lalae and Mano Kaalekahi (both deceased), she passed away at the age of 62 on Aug. 11, 2024, She is survived by her husband, Michael Adams, sons Kale (Martina), Cody (Kara) and daughter Kiana (Anthony and Sarah); sisters Rollanda Kaalekahi, Rolda (Sione) Mauala and brother Rolland Jr.
Services will be held on Dec. 27, 2024 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Kalamaula with a burial to follow at the VA cemetery in Ho’olehua.…

Kevin Kalani Pagan

Thursday, December 12th, 2024

Kevin Kalani Pagan

Kevin Kalani Pagan, 50, of Maunaloa, passed away on Nov. 17, 2024, at home, surrounded by his loved ones.
Kalani is survived by his wife, Kimberly Albinio Pagan, stepchildren, Chantel, Kristina, Ryan, and Alyssa, hanai son Waiohinu, grandchildren, sister Shelly Ann Pagan, extended family, and friends. He was a dedicated educator at Maunaloa School as a librarian, tech support specialist, and Hawaiian Studies teacher. A former Kumu Hula, Kalani was devoted to sharing Hawaiian culture and traditions. His impact on the community, students, and family was immeasurable.
A scattering ceremony will be held at a later date. He will be greatly missed but will forever remain in our hearts.…

Check Out the MAC Saturday Market

Thursday, December 12th, 2024

Check Out the MAC Saturday Market

Molokai Arts Center News Release

Looking for a made in Molokai gift? Hungry for some ono food or desserts made with fresh local produce? Need coffee to start your Saturday morning? Check out the Molokai Arts Center (MAC) Saturday Market at the Molokai Community Health Center (MCHC)! MAC has partnered with MCHC to bring together local vendors, farmers, crafters, artists, and food producers for a homegrown, grassroots shopping experience. The market is open from 9 a.m. to noon every Saturday under the tents at 30 Oki Place, across from Kaunakakai School.

The Saturday Market celebrates Molokai’s diversity and creativity. It is a vibrant and bustling gathering place, a community hub for vendors and shoppers, kama‘aina and visitors.…

Funding for Molokai Land Trust 

Thursday, December 12th, 2024

Sen. Schatz News Release 

Hawaii Senator Brian Schatz announced that Hawaii will receive more than $8.1 million in grant funding for coastal resilience projects on Molokai, Maui, and Oahu. The new funding from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation will enable various restoration projects that will help reduce flood and wildfire risk, protect forests and coral reefs, and increase community resilience.

As part of the grant funding, Molokai Land Trust will receive $919,400 to identify suitable wetlands on Molokai for restoration. The project will develop a final design for two prioritized sites, conduct environmental compliance assessments, and increase community capacity to restore and maintain wetlands.…