News Releases

Guzeiji Soto Mission Announces Changes to 2026 Obon Observance

Wednesday, July 15th, 2026

Guzeiji Soto Mission News Release

Guzeiji Soto Mission of Molokaʻi has announced that its annual Obon observance will take on a quieter and more reflective format this year. 

While the temple remains deeply committed to honoring departed loved ones through its

traditional Obon and Hatsubon memorial services, the temple will not be hosting its Bon Odori (dance) celebration or its chicken hekka plate fundraiser this summer.

The temple welcomes all who wish to participate in the Obon memorial services on July 25,

OHA Seeks Nonprofit Partners for Mālama Honua Grant 

Wednesday, July 15th, 2026

OHA News Release

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) is seeking qualified Hawaii nonprofit organizations to administer its FY27 Mālama Honua Home Improvement/Renovation Program Grant for Nonprofits (FY27 Mālama Honua Grant for Nonprofits), a home repair initiative designed to help Native Hawaiian families remain safely housed by addressing critical health and safety needs in owner-occupied homes. 

The FY27 grant solicitation opens July 6, 2026, for eligible Hawaiʻi nonprofit organizations. 

The FY27 program builds upon OHA’s commitment to increasing housing stability for Native Hawaiian beneficiaries through partnerships with trusted community organizations. To distinguish this initiative from OHA’s separate Mālama Honua Disaster Fund, the program is now formally identified as the Mālama Honua Grant for Nonprofits. …

Hoʻāhu Energy Completes Nanogrid Project

Wednesday, July 15th, 2026

Hoʻāhu Energy Cooperative Molokaʻi News Release

Hoʻāhu Energy Cooperative Molokaʻi is proud to announce completion of Phase 1 of its Nanogrid Project, a community-led initiative that brings renewable energy and battery storage to off-grid households while advancing energy sovereignty, resilience and environmental justice across Molokai. 

The project provides 14 qualified off-grid ʻohana with community-designed solar photovoltaic (PV) systems paired with battery energy storage. By delivering reliable clean electricity, the initiative reduces dependence on fossil fuels, lowers household energy costs and improves quality of life for families facing some of the island’s greatest energy challenges. 

“Our vision is to ensure that every family has access to reliable, affordable and resilient energy,” Projects Coordinator Leilani Chow of Hoʻāhu Energy Cooperative Molokaʻi said. …

Flagbook Classes with Tamara Moan

Wednesday, July 8th, 2026

Paʻa Printmakers News Release

Paʻa Printmaking Studio is offering workshops on July 18 and 19 to teach Flagbook making using Turkish folding techniques.
Participants will learn stencil-making and pop-up techniques from Oahu artist Tamara Moan. The class, held at the Paʻa Printmakers studio at 201 Ala Malama Avenue, will offer step-by-step instructions on how to create a book full of imagery with space to add poetry, a story or a letter to a friend.
Pa’a Printmakers: a hui for Molokai makers, is a creative space for local artists to learn and hone printmaking skills. Community programs at the studio include open studio time and printmaking workshops by local and visiting artists.…

Election Announced for Vacant Senate Seat

Wednesday, July 8th, 2026

Office of Elections News Release 

Following the retirement of Senator Michelle Kidani on June 30, the Office of Elections has issued a proclamation announcing the vacancy election for Senate District 18. Under Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 17-3(b)(3), the vacancy will be filled at the 2026 General Election on November 3, 2026.

All qualified political parties have till 4:30 p.m. on Friday, September 4, 2026, to submit their nominee. For nonpartisan candidates, applicants also must submit their Nomination Paper by September 4 at the Office of Elections. In the event there is more than one nonpartisan candidate, a drawing to determine the candidate that will appear on the 2026 General Election ballot will be held at 5:00 PM on September 4.…

UH Launches New Funding for Ecological, Cultural Stewardship

Wednesday, July 8th, 2026

UH News Release

The University of Hawaiʻi Sea Grant College Program is launching a historic $7 million community funding opportunity through the Pili Nā Moku project to support community-led efforts that care for ʻāina, strengthen cultural and ecological stewardship, and build resilient communities across Hawaiʻi.
This funding initiative will invest in projects focused on five moku (district) and hui (group of) moku: Kona Kauaʻi, Waiʻanae (Oʻahu), Molokaʻi, Central Maui and Kohala (Hawaiʻi Island). Up to $1.4 million is available within each moku/hui to support projects that reflect community-identified priorities and advance long-term resilience.
Pili Nā Moku is a project dedicated to reinvigorating the moku system (a framework for traditional Hawaiian land tenure and biocultural stewardship) by investing in ʻāina restoration and governance practices that balance local knowledge and stewardship with centralized decision-making.…

Community Feedback Needed to Shape Aging Services

Thursday, July 2nd, 2026

Office on Aging News Release

The County of Maui Department of Human Concerns Office on Aging is inviting community members to share their input on aging services, which will help shape future services and resources for older adults, caregivers and their families across Maui Nui. 

“The voices of our community are essential to shaping a stronger, more age-friendly Maui County,” County Executive on Aging Rowena Dagdag-Andaya said. “Every perspective shared helps us better understand the needs of our kūpuna, caregivers and families. By listening and learning from those we serve, we can direct resources where they will have the greatest impact and create a community where everyone can age with dignity, connection and support.” …

July 4th Fireworks Information from Maui Fire Department

Thursday, July 2nd, 2026

 Maui Fire Department News Release

The County of Maui’s Department of Fire and Public Safety announce the sale of July 4th fireworks beginning on Monday, June 29, 2026, and ending on Saturday, July 4, 2026, at 8:00 p.m. A fireworks permit is not required during designated times (see below) for consumer fireworks such as sparklers, snakes, and cylindrical or cone fountains, which emit effects not higher than 12 feet off the ground. 

Retail stores will not sell firecrackers for this holiday; therefore, Firecracker Permits will not be available for purchase at these stores. The Maui Fire Department also would like to remind residents that fireworks can only be legally set off from 1 p.m.…