Thursday, May 28th, 2026
By Pat Killilea, SS.CC.
The engine roared and the small plane took off down the runway and, on the wings of the wind, took off into the Kalaupapa skies. All of us who could leave our posts had gathered at our friendly little airport to wave goodbye to Aunty Meli Watanuki whose body was on its way to Honolulu.
On Sunday morning, I had brought her communion and given her the sacrament of the sick as I had done many times over the years. We spoke a few words then and I expected she would overcome this, her latest illness, but later on Sunday her soul flew to Heaven on the wings of angels.…
Thursday, May 28th, 2026
DLNR News Release
The abundance of axis deer on Maui Nui continues to cause environmental, safety and economic challenges for its residents. The DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW) is asking residents of Maui, Molokai and Lāna‘i to participate in a short survey describing how axis deer are impacting their lives.
DOFAW staff are gathering important community feedback to help identify the current status of axis deer on the three islands, any negative impacts the deer are causing and regional preferences to help guide management actions. The 15-question survey is online and anonymous, collecting only ZIP code information and taking an average of two minutes to complete.…
Thursday, May 21st, 2026
Pūlama Ka Heke News Release
Pūlama Ka Heke (PKH) is pleased to announce an enhancement to its Kaulele a Ola (Essential Rural Medical Air Transport – ERMAT) program, further improving access to off-island medical care for residents of Molokai and Lānaʻi.
To reduce delays in care, PKH has updated its referral process. While the patient’s Primary Care Provider (PCP) remains the primary source for all referrals, treating specialists can now submit referrals directly when a PCP is unable to do so.
Updated Referral Process:
Primary Pathway: The patient’s PCP continues to be the required starting point for submitting referrals. This ensures proper coordination of your overall healthcare.…
Thursday, May 21st, 2026
Hawaiʻi DCCA News Release
The Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs Insurance Division reminds consumers to evaluate their insurance policies before hurricane season, which begins June 1. Forecasters are indicating that El Niño conditions may develop heading into summer, which can increase hurricane activity in the Central Pacific Basin and heighten the potential for impacts to Hawaiʻi.
“El Niño may cause more hurricane activity in the Pacific, so don’t wait to think about coverage,” said Insurance Commissioner Scott K. Saiki. “Once a hurricane or tropical storm is on the horizon, insurers may pause issuing new or expanded policies. Reviewing your coverage now helps ensure you’re protected when it matters most.”…
Thursday, May 21st, 2026
Bissen Campaign News Release
Surrounded by community supporters, labor leaders and his grandsons, Mayor Richard Bissen officially filed nomination papers to seek re-election as mayor of Maui County.
The moment was both personal and symbolic: Standing beside the next generation of his family, Bissen reflected on the long-term responsibility behind his decision to continue serving Maui Nui.
“When I look at my grandsons, I think about the future every ‘ohana in Maui County deserves — a future where our keiki can stay rooted here, where local families can still afford to live here, and where we protect not only our community, but the values that hold our community together,” Bissen said.…
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