Privacy Policy | About Our Ads The Maui Department of Water Supply is reporting a service outage in parts of Upper Kula and Makawao due to a mainline break  The outage is expected to continue through 3 p.m today and affects 30 homes and 2 standpipes Two water buffalos are located at the bird sanctuary residents may experience brown water and should flush waterlines outside for 10-20 minutes then run their faucet for another 10-20 minutes before use Investigative stories and local news updates Coverage of the Hawaiʻi State legislature in 2025 Award winning in-depth reports and featured on-going series Get the week’s news delivered straight to your inbox The family of Macayla Deponte’s boyfriend took her in and accepted her as family For more stories like this, sign up for the Morning Beat our free daily email newsletter that keeps you up to date on Hawaiʻi news It had been years since Lyndell Schneider worked and she was used to being alone when her adult son wasn’t home But when Macayla Deponte moved in last summer after she started dating Schneider’s son the mom was surprised at how quickly she adapted to having the boisterous young woman around a month after Deponte was killed by Maui police during an apparent mental health crisis Schneider can’t get used to how quiet it is again She said her 22-year-old son, Trayden Schneider, had called 911 because he was worried that Deponte would hurt herself after they broke up. Within minutes of the officers’ arrival at the Makawao home, Deponte was shot by an officer after she moved toward him with a knife Schneider said her son did not believe Deponte would purposefully hurt him or anyone else Schneider and her family have grappled with a mixture of grief Deponte lived with Schneider and her son in an ʻohana unit built behind the house where Schneider and her siblings grew up The young woman’s violent death now overshadows the family’s innocent childhood memories of the home.  and our parents’ first house,” Schneider said one day in mid-February her eyes fixed on the spot in the kitchen where Deponte had encountered the police “It’s hard because now it doesn’t feel so innocent.” She had placed a Mason jar filled with fresh flowers on the concrete floor near the kitchen doorway to mark where Deponte was killed located behind the main house where Schneider’s sister lives with her teenage daughter Deponte was Trayden Schneider’s first serious girlfriend “They always seemed like giddy teenagers,” he said spending most of his free time playing video games build houses out of playing cards and visit the island’s trampoline park It seemed like they went out to watch the sunset together every night “He would make her bubble baths when she came home Trayden Schneider spoke briefly with Civil Beat after the shooting His family said they quickly accepted Deponte as a member of the family She loved animals and had special bonds with the Schneiders’ 3-year-old Shih Tzu “You could tell she didn’t trust people You could tell that so many people had abused her trust,” Schneider said the family pieced together an incomplete picture of Deponte’s life before she came into their lives She told them she had been raised by relatives until the age of 9 She said she had been involuntarily hospitalized for psychiatric reasons at least once She dropped out of school in her early teenage years and had experienced periods of homelessness Deponte lived in Haiku with her ex-boyfriend and their daughter when he filed a petition for a temporary restraining order he said that Deponte had become more unstable in the last year and that he feared for his and his child’s safety He wrote in his petition that in one incident Deponte punched him several times and threatened to leave with their daughter (Civil Beat wasn’t able to reach Deponte’s ex-boyfriend to comment.) but a judge ordered her to stay away from her ex-boyfriend Schneider supported Deponte as she studied for her high school equivalency test purchased her first car and landed her first job Although Deponte “was slowly moving in the right direction,” Eric Fernandez said she “did have a lot of heaviness and baggage that was still weighing her down.” Occasionally something would set her into a rage and she would seem to lose control Janelle Fernandez said Deponte sometimes tried to numb her emotions with alcohol “There were times where she would get very angry shaking her hands as if she were holding Deponte’s Sometimes it took her a few seconds to snap out of it “It’s almost like she didn’t even know what was going on.” Deponte often said she couldn’t remember what she had said or what had upset her according to Trayden Schneider’s family She would be overcome with remorse and sink into an all-consuming depression Janelle Fernandez said Trayden struggled with how to respond to Deponte’s mood swings “I don’t think he was equipped — like none of us are — to navigate what Macayla was dealing with,” she said “I just don’t think she had the tools to be in a healthy relationship.”  In the weeks leading up to Deponte’s death it was clear their relationship was unraveling When the couple broke up on the afternoon of Feb grabbed a knife from the kitchen and locked herself in a bedroom.  Trayden Schneider later told his family that he called 911 because he hoped police could calm Deponte down and connect her with mental health and housing resources she was barricaded in a bedroom and yelling incoherently while playing loud music Officers tried to communicate with Deponte from outside the house and went inside after a few minutes.  That’s about when the body cam video starts It shows Deponte walked into the kitchen carrying the knife The officers yelled at her: “Let me see your hands Deponte raised the knife and walked toward an officer Police said the officer shot Deponte twice Less than eight minutes passed between when the police arrived and called for medical help for Deponte Schneider and her family said they believed Deponte’s death could have been avoided if the police had tried to deescalate the situation having a little bit more patience and more compassion having taken a little bit more time to talk to her and understand what was really going on because they didn’t,” Schneider said Macayla was worth and deserved a lot more.” Civil Beat requested the department’s use-of-force policy a month ago but the department hasn’t provided it It declined to provide body camera footage showing what happened before Deponte entered the kitchen.  a retired police lieutenant and use-of-force expert in California reviewed the video at the request of Civil Beat “What I saw was a reasonable use of deadly force based on the limited set of video that I saw,” he said.  Through a partnership with the National Alliance on Mental Health, the Maui Police Department periodically offers officers optional training on how to respond to people experiencing a mental health crisis The police department didn’t answer a question about whether either of the officers who responded to participated in that program Nelson Hamilton spoke at a news conference about the shooting Though he acknowledged that “a family is grieving,” he said the incident shows the risks police face she “would have been charged with attempted murder in the first degree.” because if she lived you would be in an even more difficult situation,” said Lyndell Schnieder In a response provided by police spokeswoman Alana Pico the department acknowledged “the emotional impact” of the shooting It said the department strives to resolve situations peacefully but “officers are often forced to make split-second decisions in life-threatening situations where their actions depend on the behavior of others.” “Unfortunately, mental health crises play a significant role in many officer-involved shootings,” the statement said. “We remain dedicated to improving our response to individuals facing mental health challenges to seek the safest possible outcomes through our Crisis Intervention Training.” The family has heard little from authorities they aren’t entitled to information about whether Deponte’s body has been claimed They hadn’t heard anything about a memorial service someone who said they were a relative of hers came to the house to collect Deponte’s belongings She stayed with relatives for several days after the shooting because she couldn’t bear to be in the place where Deponte had died she found a towel that appeared to have been used to clean up her blood fear and my stomach was just in knots,” she said “There was guilt and every single emotion you could think of — not in a good way Schneider had encouraged her to set goals and find help.   “I was chipping away at those walls that were so tough,” she said I would have been able to chip away more at those walls.” Civil Beat’s community health coverage is supported by the Atherton Family Foundation, Swayne Family Fund of Hawai‘i Community Foundation, the Cooke Foundation and Papa Ola Lōkahi Unfortunately, being named a finalist for a Pulitzer prize doesn’t make us immune to financial pressures. The fact is, our revenue hasn’t kept pace with our need to grow, and we need your help Civil Beat is a nonprofit, reader-supported newsroom based in Hawaiʻi. We’re looking to build a more resilient, diverse and deeply impactful media landscape, and we hope you’ll help by supporting our essential journalism Civil Beat has been named the best overall news site in Hawaii for the 14th year in a row by the Society of Professional Journalists Hawaii Chapter This image comes from a video released by Maui Police showing two men rob the Longs Drug store in Makawao on April 22 Maui police are asking for the public’s help identifying two men who robbed two Upcountry businesses at gunpoint on April 22 the two men unsuccessfully robbed the Longs Drugs store in Makawao at about 10:34 p.m and then hit a gas station in Pukalani about 20 minutes later the two men reportedly entered the stores brandishing rifles while demanding cash They are both believed to be in their teens or early 20s with thin builds a black hoodie and black shoes during the robberies The other is believed to be about 5-foot-6 Both men had red cloths covering their heads and faces a store employee at Longs Drugs confronted the two robbers before they fled on a single electric bicycle without obtaining any money The second robbery occurred about 20 minutes later at the Texaco Gas Station in Pukalani where the two men again brandished rifles and demanded cash from the cashier they reportedly obtained an undisclosed amount of money and fled on the same electric bicycle Police posted three videos of the robbers on the department’s Facebook page encouraging anyone who recognizes either of them to contact the Maui Police Department at (808) 244-6425 Callers can remain anonymous by contacting Maui Crime Stoppers at 808-242-6966 A grant information session for Maui County’s recycling grants program will be at 2 p.m In light of increased property values driving up tax payments the Maui County Council’s budget committee has .. Copyright © 2025 Maui News Publishing Company LTD | https://www.mauinews.com | 100 Mahalani Street MauiTraffic The Maui Police Department identified the victim in the Thursday night fatal crash on Hana Highway in Paia as Douglas Roman Maui police say a 34-year-old man died at the scene of a two-vehicle collision on Hana Highway in Paia Thursday night Police said the crash happened about 0.2 miles east of Maliko Bay Road at about 10:18 p.m. and alcohol is suspected to be a contributing factor to the collision the driver of a 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan was traveling Haiku-bound on Hana Highway when it failed to negotiate a turn at Maliko Gulch crossed the double solid yellow lines and collided into a 2002 Toyota Tacoma driven by the 34-year-old man from Makawao and collided with a guardrail before landing on its roof was partially ejected and pronounced dead at the scene Police did not say whether they were injured or if any arrests were made Police said the involvement of alcohol is suspected as a factor in the collision but that an investigation is pending on the involvement of speed and drugs Police said this was Maui County’s sixth traffic fatality this year compared with two at the same time last year But the beauty of the Valley Isle extends beyond its gorgeous beaches Upcountry Maui is a peaceful region marked by pastures a sea of purple jacaranda trees and panoramic views you’ll discover quaint family shops and a bounty of flourishing farms Take a day to explore Upcountry Maui—we know you’ll fall in love with it Here are 10 places you don’t want to miss Pukalani Superette is known for its friendly service and delicious bentos.Photo: Grace Maeda This mom and pop shop is near the intersection of Old Haleakalā Highway and Makawao Avenue Pukalani Superette maintains an active presence in the community through a flurry of fundraising initiatives Affectionately nicknamed “Puk Sup” (pronounced pook soup) the family shop is known for its friendly service and delicious bentos is a great place to get a sense of the community you should also stock up on tasty grab-and-go foods as you start your Upcountry journey 15 Makawao Ave., Makawao, pukalanisuperette.com The charming town of Makawao is known for celebrating its paniolo history.Photo: Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority (HTA)/Tommy Lundberg As you wander the streets of this historic town you can’t help but notice relics of the island’s paniolo (cowboy) days from the old architecture to Rodeo General Store paniolo have wrangled the island’s cattle and today one of the largest events of its kind in Hawaiʻi But that’s not the only reason to visit Makawao where you’ll find some of the best cream puffs around Makawao Public House is one of the newest restaurants on the block—it opened at the end of 2023—and it’s already a favorite among locals and visitors Makawao is also home to an eclectic array of shops Mahalo Aleworks is known for its sour beers.Photo: Ryan Siphers Mahalo Aleworks celebrates Maui’s unique biodiversity and year-round bounty of local fruits by incorporating foraged ingredients in its beers brewed right on the slopes of Haleakalā The brewery’s specialty is sour beers and the lilikoʻi and starfruit sours are popular choices at the brewery’s taproom in the Kulamalu Town Center You can also sample a rotating selection of the brewery’s stouts the taproom boasts spectacular views of Mauna Kahalawai 30 Kūpaoa St., Unit 101, Makawao, mahaloaleworks.com READ MORE: Say Mahalo for Beer  Aliʻi Kula Lavender boasts incredible panoramic views of the Valley Isle.Photo: Getty Images/Ian Teraoka you’ll smell the delicate and sweet scents of lavender Aliʻi Kula Lavender stretches 13.5 acres and boasts panoramic views of the Valley Isle The grounds feature more than 20 varieties of lavender After strolling along the garden’s meandering paths visitors can stop by the gift shop for lavender goods or sip on a refreshing lavender lemonade 1100 Waipoli Road, Kula, aliikulalavender.com Kula Country Farms welcomes visitors to pluck sweet strawberries in the spring.Photo: Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority (HTA)/Ben Ono This local farm welcomes folks to pick sweet strawberries in the spring and plump pumpkins in the fall any time is a good time to visit Kula Country Farms The farm stand offers fresh produce and locally made goods like jam and honey 6240 Kula Highway, Kula, kulacountryfarmsmaui.com It’s worth a trip to Kula for a jar of honey from Maui Bees.Photo: Aaron K If you’re looking for a serene rest stop swing by Maui Bees to sample honey and enjoy the cool Upcountry climate 150 Pulehu Nui Road, Kula, mauibees.com Maui Goat Yoga invites visitors to stretch relax and cuddle with friendly and adorable goats.Photo: David Croxford you can’t help but smile at the unusual pairing of yoga and goats relax and cuddle with friendly and adorable Nigerian Dwarf goats Yoga classes run 30 to 40 minutes and are followed by “goat therapy,” which is essentially playtime with the goats 936 Keanuhea St., Kula, mauigoatyoga.com READ MORE: Downward Dog Meets Upright Goat at Maui Goat Yoga  Sun Yat-sen Memorial Park is a tranquil spot to soak in the grandeur of Upcountry.Photo: Aaron K Venture beyond Kula Country Farms and Grandma’s Coffee House and you’ll find Sun Yat-sen Memorial Park This lesser-known park in Kēōkea is a tranquil spot to soak in the grandeur of Upcountry you can delight in the views of Kīhei Wailea and nearby islands of Kahoʻolawe and Lānaʻi Kula; gates to the parking lot are open from 7 a.m.-7 p.m Hosmer Grove Trail is an easy 0.6-mile loop.Photo: Aaron K Beginning close to the entrance of Haleakalā National Park this easy 0.6-mile trail loops through a diverse forest you’re surrounded by pine trees and eucalyptus you’ll enter native shrubland with koa and ʻōhiʻa trees you might be able to spot the endemic ʻiʻiwi (Hawaiian honeycreeper) and white-rumped ʻapapane nps.gov/places/hosmer-grove-trailhead.htm   One of the best ways to learn and explore the Haleakalā is on the park’s hiking trails.Photo: Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority (HTA)/Tor Johnson from its diverse terrain to its important place in Hawaiian culture Meaning “house of the sun” in ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (Hawaiian language) the summit of the volcano reaches just over 10,000 feet in elevation visitors to Haleakalā National Park trek to its upper reaches to witness spectacular sunrises and sunsets While they’re unforgettable experiences one of the best ways to learn about the volcano is to explore its hiking trails The Summit District of the park boasts more than 30 miles of trails ranging from short nature walks to multiday trips hikers can explore native shrubland or walk through an otherworldly cinder desert nps.gov/hale/index.htm Anticipated completion time has been extended to Monday Water customers in parts of Upper Kula and Makawao are experiencing an outage through 8 o’clock tonight The water service outage is due to a mainline break from Friday The outage is from 1700 Piʻiholo Road and above and Olinda Road/Lumahai Place and above; affecting 30 homes and 2 standpipes Water buffalos are located at: bird sanctuary  Impacted consumers need to flush their waterlines outside for 10-20 minutes The Department of Water Supply apologized for any inconvenience “Maui County should better partner with the state to provide more access to mental health Civil Beat asked candidates to answer some questions about where they stand on various issues and what their priorities will be if elected The following came from Nohe Uu-Hodgins, candidate for Maui County Council Makawao-Haiku-Paia District. Her opponent is Nara Boone Go to Civil Beat’s Elections Guide for general information, and check out other candidates on the General Election Ballot Maui County faces big issues related to the fires What’s the primary thing Maui needs to do now to recover from the fires We need to work with home builders to create access to more housing to provide our displaced residents with a place to continue to call home we should prioritize physical and mental health we should work with disaster recovery and resiliency experts to establish safer communities to protect ourselves from another catastrophe Maui County cannot financially or demographically afford another large disaster 2.  What should Maui do to encourage people to stay What can the county do to ensure that families aren’t priced out Maui County should allow for the creation of homes that are financially within reach of our local community not just of the home itself but also the materials needed to build homes Considering that we are in the middle of the Pacific Ocean and construction is our second largest industry we should focus on manufacturing construction materials to shorten the supply chain Most of us are familiar with the concept of “aging in place” — this is typically used in reference to our kupuna I believe we need to adjust that paradigm and consider that for our young people as well Let’s create a community in which we can all “age in place.” Aging in place means one’s ability to live in one’s own home and community and community needed for all of us to thrive here Do you support the new state law that allows counties to regulate and even shut down short-term rentals Each of the counties that make up Hawaii is unique and should allow for county-specific laws created by the local government and its residents How should it be rebuilt and who should decide My vision for Lahaina is a place for the Lahaina residents to call home again The residents of Lahaina should feel safe and comfortable in her arms besides incorporating modern building and fire codes to create a safer community should be up to the people who call Lahaina home Paia and Lahaina share many similar qualities My office and I have been working with MEMA and the fire department to best ensure Paia’s safety if Paia was to ever suffer a tragedy as the town of Lahaina has; I would hope that Maui County and its government would respect the residents of Paia to listen to their vision I respect the people of Lahaina and understand that this is something I can do for them What should elected officials do to restore trust in county government We need better collaboration between local government and rebuilding trust is everyone’s responsibility Do you think Maui County should do more to manage water resources we need to create more sources and provide better access while creating a system for recycled and gray water Upcountry Maui has suffered through decades of annual droughts due to a severe lack of source and a reliance on a near-century-old system utilizing surface water Managing resources should also include providing more sources to the people who call Maui home so that future generations can continue to do so What is the first thing Maui County should do to get in front of climate change rather than just reacting to it The first thing Maui County should do to get in front of climate change rather than just reacting to it should be a realistic understanding of what climate change entails We need to create resiliency in our communities which should include legislation Homelessness is becoming more of an issue on Maui What do you think needs to be changed to help people get into housing Maui County should better partner with the state to provide more access to mental health Understanding that there are various types and stages of being unsheltered I hope we can improve access to low-income rentals to provide a sustainable inventory of attainable housing for those in transition and different regions face different challenges What would be your approach to improve Maui’s transportation problems historic towns that were designed for people to live we can go back to a neo business/county town model similar to Paia and Makawao This would include allowing more mixed use we need to better modernize our existing infrastructure to accommodate the population now we still have the same roads and infrastructure we have had for years without adapting to the growing population considering we need to create more homes to deal with the housing crisis we also need to anticipate the creation of the required roadways to permit safe travel Makawao residents should prepare for a possible water outage from 9 p.m and the Maui County Department of Water Supply will be working on the County’s water system in Makawao Affected properties include a portion of homes businesses and schools on the side streets of Makawao Avenue from Kokomo Road through Makawao town onto Kula Highway to Haleakala Highway including Olinda Road from Po’okela Church to Makawao Avenue and down Baldwin Avenue Also affected will be residents from Makawao Avenue to Kaluanui Road Water customers along these roads are encouraged to store water and adjust schedules as appropriate The contractor and Water Department apologize for any public inconvenience contact the Water Department’s 24-hour hotline at 808-270-7633 “We have hotels using an abundance of water yet green-lighted affordable housing is on pause due to lack thereof.” The following came from Nara Boone, candidate for Maui County Council Makawao-Haiku-Paia District. Her opponent is Nohe Uu-Hodgins Go to Civil Beat’s Election Guide for general information, and check out other candidates on the General Election Ballot means many people in our community are suffering This isnʻt something limited to fire survivors; the resulting trauma is widespread Necessary healing canʻt happen until our community feels stable in their living situations. While some housing developments are underway the solution — like the problem itself — must be multi-faceted phasing out short-term-rentals and charging much higher taxes for vacant homes are some solutions While some may say we need more tourism to assist in recovery I believe our community is our economy and must be our top priority Rental prices must be brought under control What some call a “going rate” is actually inflated pricing due to outside investors gobbling up Mauiʻs rental inventory during Covid then expecting our people to fund their mortgages Free lunch for school-aged children year-long larger property tax breaks for long-term/owner-occupied dwellings offer better job opportunities not related to tourism Much of the apartment zoned Minatoya List inventory was initially work-force housing The majority of owners of these properties now live outside of Hawaii contributing minimally to the functioning of our society This new law gives the county another option to help house our people.  I believe the people of Lahaina should have a large say in how the town should be rebuilt there will need to be adjustments made for sea level rise — a complicated issue All the hard-learned lessons that created this catastrophe mustnʻt be repeated wider roads and an underground electrical system My personal vision for Lahaina is one where the original landscape is honored; water stops being withheld A place where multi-cultural richness is celebrated with tributes to the many ethnicities making up the town — Hawaiians Perhaps the shoreline area of Front Street becomes a memorial park instead of shops elected officials must be more transparent They have to prove their allegiance is to the true fabric of our society; our hardworking people and not to big money interests They need to admit when theyʻve made mistakes instead of going on the offensive where corporations canʻt make donations under the guise of employees ending cronyism and bribery would go a long way in restoring trust We are in a situation where our most precious resource is privatized We have hotels using an abundance of water yet green-lighted affordable housing is on pause due to lack thereof Water reclamation should be required for all hotels and put to use in other areas across Maui County allowing for our water table to be replenished add water reclamation and atmospheric water harvesting build more alternative energy systems (solar become more self-sufficient in food production We need to bring down and regulate rental prices yet donʻt make enough for the ridiculous rents being charged. Many others struggle to afford application fees the demand to make three times the rent in income then come up with the first monthʻs rent and deposit There should be programs that help with and/or limit these fees subsidize rent and offer supportive services better incentives for landlords to convert dwellings to HUD guidelines The county should create more puuhonua (places of refuge) — countywide — that provide wraparound services for those in need there are many organizations in Maui County who are deserving of funds but not receiving them The staggering evidence of rental cars filling fields and parking lots during covid and post-fires speaks volumes Shifting to airport/hotel shuttles and guided tours as would limiting the amount of rental cars allowed on island Our public bus service could be improved by adding routes that circle Upcountry without going to Kahului first Paia would benefit from a bypass extension using Holomua Roadʻs connections to Baldwin Avenue and Hana Highway The west side issues would be improved right now by opening Honoapiilani Highway to through traffic Napili would benefit from speed tables in neighborhoods while Haiku has been inundated with an excessive amount of traffic that needs to be reduced Maui police say alcohol is suspected as a factor in a deadly crash that claimed the life of a Makawao man in Pāʻia on Thursday night 0.2 miles east of Maliko Bay Road in Pāʻia Police say a preliminary investigation reveals that a gray 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan was traveling Haʻikū-bound on Hāna Highway when it failed to negotiate a turn at Maliko Gulch crossing the double solid yellow lane lines  The Tiguan collided into a sliver 2002 Toyota Tacoma which was traveling within the Pāʻia-bound lane of travel resulting in the Tacoma colliding into a guardrail before coming to a rest on its roof was partially ejected and sustained fatal injuries His identity is being withheld for 24 hours to allow his family an opportunity to notify their extended family and friends the operator of the Tacoma was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the collision and his 40-year-old Haʻikū woman passenger were both wearing their seat belts at the time of the collision Police say the involvement of speed and drugs is pending as the investigation is still ongoing This was Maui County’s sixth traffic fatality of 2025 compared to two at the same time last year The 56th Annual Makawao Parade in Makawao Town concluded on Saturday  The Makawao Parade has long been a cherished tradition businesses and visitors to celebrate the vibrant culture and heritage of Makawao Town ” It was a beautiful sunny day with parade entries of ‘live’ bands classic cars and so much more,” said event organizers.  With more than 50 parade participants this year the 56th Annual Makawao Parade committee reviewed entries and released the list of winners: The 2024 Parade Marshal was Eugene DeRogo, a beloved figure in the community, known for his dedication and service. The parade also paid loving tribute to special honoree the late Gladys Baisa a cherished member of the Makawao community whose legacy continues to inspire This year’s event sponsors were: County of Maui More information is available at www.makawaoparade.com In a remarkable recovery following a structure fire that severely impacted its operations on Jan Krank Cycles Makawao has announced a new location directly across the street from its old site The bike shop is moving from its temporary location after the fire the former site of the iconic Stopwatch Bar and Grill The space provides more room to better serve the Maui community said owner Aaron “Moose” Reichert on Monday “This new location is a testament to the unwavering support from our community and we are deeply thankful to everyone who has stood by us through these challenging times The location activates several new features including a ‘Chill-Out Zone’—a covered lānai designed for post-ride relaxation with views of West Maui and the North Shore—and a ‘Bicycle Fit Studio’ to help its customers achieve the perfect bike fit for comfort and performance Krank Cycles says it will also be expanding its selection of mountain biking and road-cycling accessories with more space to stock the latest models in road and mountain bike selections The Makawao Boys and Girls Club building at the Eddie Tam Memorial Center complex in Makawao will temporarily close for a reroofing project from March 10-31 according to the County of Maui Department of Parks and Recreation The Makawao Boys and Girls Club will be temporarily relocated to ensure safety while work is underway contact DPR’s Planning and Development Division at 808-270-7931 The talented young musicians of Suzuki Maui and Haleakalā Waldorf School will join with seasoned artists in an annual holiday concert on Saturday The program features holiday favorites and classical selections including Corelli’s Christmas Concerto with graduating seniors Skylar Kuroda of Seabury Hall Students and children 17 and under are free with accompanying adult “These young artists who range in age from seven to adult have trained for months for this Annual Suzuki-Maui Talent Education Program Concert,” said its founder and director dozens of Suzuki Maui string players have gone on to careers in the classical music world from coast to coast the state and Los Angeles as a seasoned violist and violinist who is the maestro that brings together her ensemble of young musical artists and adults from her Suzuki-Maui Studio and the Haleakalā Waldorf School middle school strings program which she has led for coming up on 10 years Suzuki-Maui the audience is in for an uplifting concert featuring holiday classics and familiar classical works performed in the iconic Makawao Union Church “Our students have worked diligently to present this program for our community and are excited to showcase their talents in our 23rd annual concert event,” said Skinner The over 38 string players include Suzuki-Maui high-school violin soloists Skylar Kuroda and Sophia Scott from Seabury Hall violists Aria Cuthburtson and Ruby Valentino Haleakalā Waldorf High School and Noted Maui professional performing artists Lotus Dancer Suzuki-Maui alumni and violinist with Maui Pops Orchestra on violin and electric bass and Skinner on viola and violin round out the orchestra at this Holiday event of the season Distinguished actor Bob Wills will be returning as Master of Ceremonies this year Suzuki-Maui Talent Education follows the philosophy of its founder the late Japanese violinist Shinichi Suzuki In a time when Maui and its communities are still healing from the wildfire events Suzuki’s methodology is particularly relevant When world renown cellist Pablo Casals experienced the music of Dr he said to him “Perhaps music will change the world.” The Suzuki method was launched in 1945 at the end of World War II Seeing the residual effects on his country Suzuki began his Talent Education movement in Matsumoto His vision was to raise children with “noble hearts” believing that people raised and “nurtured by love” in his method would grow up to achieve better things than war contact suzukimaui@gmail.com or 808-298-9096 or Georja Skinner Bacon Universal announced its role as the grandstand sponsor for the upcoming Makawao Stampede 2024 taking place July 5-7 at the Oskie Rice Event Center The Makawao Stampede is an annual rodeo event held at the Oskie Rice Event Center celebrating the island’s rich paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) heritage The event features thrilling rodeo competitions and showcases the unique cowboy culture of Upcountry Bacon Universal will feature a significant display showcasing the latest Kubota equipment Attendees can explore a range of Kubota products with experts on hand to provide insights and answer any questions In addition to the equipment display and branding of the arena grandstand Bacon Universal will host a special sweepstake giving participants the chance to win a limited-edition king crab orange Yeti Tundra 65 Hard Cooler Entry details will be available at the Bacon Universal tents in the vendor field and the arena Bacon Universal offers a meet and greet opportunity with six-time pro rodeo world champion Kaycee Feild where he will be drawing the winner of the Yeti cooler sweepstake and sharing his experiences from the rodeo circuit “We are incredibly proud to sponsor the Makawao Stampede and bring the spirit of Kubota to this fantastic event,” said Matt Elvin “We look forward to engaging with the community showcasing our top-of-the-line Kubota equipment and celebrating the legacy of rodeo in Maui.” For more information visit www.baconuniversal.com A brand new fine art gallery in Makawao is defining itself as a new beginning for Maui artists who lost their main source of income after the devastating fires destroyed their art and the galleries that hosted them in Lahaina “Lahaina was one of the top art destinations in the world with dozens of galleries showcasing some of the islands most talented artists,” said Patrick Parker “But after fires ripped through the artsy town of Lahaina […] many local artists have been struggling to find new galleries to show their artwork.” Upcountry Gallery opened its doors in Makawao town last week TBM Creations — bound together by a theme of all things ocean-related The gallery hosts a grand opening event today Upcountry Gallery is located in the center of Makawao at 3660 Baldwin Avenue directly across from the Rodeo General Store The gallery is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m Works can also be viewed on social media @UpcountryGallery Hawaii is composed of the islands of Hawaiʻi, Maui, Kahoʻolawe, Lānaʻi, Molokaʻi, Oʻahu, Kauaʻi, and Niʻihau. Tourists from far and wide flock to these islands for the beaches, the tropical atmosphere, the surfing, and the compelling Polynesian culture These eccentric Hawaiian towns are excellent destinations for their unique qualities and cultures a resplendent town an hour away from the city of Waikīkī on the island of O'ahu meaning “Frigatebird.” Birds and tourists alike love Hale’iwa’s magnificent beaches and shorelines Notable locations include the ‘Ehukai Beach Park known as Banzai Pipeline for its surfable waves Take selfies and groupies at the historic Rainbow Bridge spanning the Anahulu River. Another historic landmark in Hale’iwa is the abandoned landing field airport at the Pua'ena Point, which the US military once used during World War II November is a particularly special month for coffee lovers as the townsfolk celebrate Kona coffee and their heritage with the Hōlualoa Village Coffee & Art Stroll These same mountains also encourage travelers and townsfolk to go sledding down the slopes on wooden sleds you can also opt to go on foot and explore scenic areas around town such as the Honuaʻula Forest Reserve and the Pu'u Wa'awa'a Forest Reserve There are dozens more activities and attractions for you to see and do in the energetic and coffee-filled town of Hōlualoa so feel thrilled and enthusiastic for more savory delights in this eccentric town The town of Makawao prospers on the island of Maui have worked and roamed the region since the 19th century The paniolo often wrangles long-horned bulls and Maui alpacas across the Haleakalā volcano Although the Fourth of July is typically the day Americans celebrate the signing of the Declaration of Independence Makawao instead hosts the largest paniolo competition known as the Makawao Rodeo such as the Hui No’eau Visual Arts Center and Hot Island Glass teach townsfolk and visitors alike techniques like glassblowing panoramic destinations such as the Kula Botanical Garden and the Jungle Zipline Maui-HI have remained unparalleled opportunities for adventures around the eccentric town of Makawao such as the 15th-century Hawaiian village at Kaunolu and a ceremonial and religious structure called a heiau the 18th-century Luahiwa petroglyphs at the Palawai Basin continue to astound and baffle visitors with their enigmatic drawings and details Those interested in the present can explore the Japanese-themed Lanai Bamboo Garden Retreat or Keahiakawelo you can adore the rescued cats of the Lanai Cat Sanctuary or aid in the sanctuary’s rehabilitation efforts you will absolutely love all that there is to experience from the island town of Lānaʻi City is a paragon of the typical beachside wonders and surfing expenditures Hawaii is known for The Hamakua Coast attracts thousands of surfers and beachgoers with its pristine sands and tubular waves and the Pu'u O Umi Natural Area Reserve—the latter sheltering most of the animal species located on the Big Island—have enchanted newcomers with their untamed and dynamic landscapes More of Honokaʻa’s beachside or mainland wilderness can be accessible through the Hilo Forest Reserve (Humu‘Ula Sector and Laupāhoehoe Sector) the Honoka'a People's Theatre entertains everyone from every age just as the humble retreats and resorts of the Waipiʻo Wayside Bed & Breakfast and Hamakua Sanctuary welcome visitors with their splendid accommodations Surfers, windsurfers, and kite surfers should definitely head to the town of Pāʻia on Maui Where big enough waves lap Baldwin Beach Park Pāʻia is a perfect destination for the most athletic of beachgoers and individuals eager to try out a new seafaring sport gives visitors access to Mantokuji Bay and Ku’au Bay which are filled with coral reefs for scuba diving Although it is absolutely relaxing to go to the beach, Pāʻia’s other approach to holistic integrity includes the Great Paia Lha Bab Peace Stupa at the Maui Dharma Center. This place pays homage to the late Venerable Lama Tenzin, who was the first full-time resident and spiritual director of the Center once a filming site for the classic movie Rainbow Bridge starring Janis Joplin and Jimi Hendrix which travelers can visit before or after their adventures at the beach you will not regret your peaceful and epic experiences in the small town of Pāʻia Hāna has been lauded for being the “Real Hawaii” due to its remoteness and the mythologies surrounding the town is one of the few ways to reach this isolated town in Maui but it will provide a 52-mile tour of the stunning forest regions surrounding Hāna such as the Sunbathe at Waiʻānapanapa State Park explorers will find unique rock formations shrouded in local Hawaiian mythology It is said that these formations were a result of the battle between the fire goddess Pele and the ocean goddess Namakaokaha'i the hills of Ka'uiki are one of the few places untouched by passing clouds due to the mythic hero Maui and other Hawaiian deities Visitors can feel more of Hāna’s spiritual and folkloric connections at the largest Hawaiian temple or heiau one of five National Tropical Botanical Gardens in Hawaii or see the Cultural Center and Museum exhibits you will not forget your adventures in the eccentric town of Hāna You can reach any of these areas on a horse or ATV Hawaii is an island state teeming with legends and natural phenomena Whether it was created when the great hero Maui pulled the Pacific islands from the ocean’s depths or factual and natural volcanic formations and growths Hawaii is nevertheless a perfect vacation destination that everyone ought to visit for the new year explore some of the most eccentric towns in Hawaii such as the surfing capitals of the land like Pāʻia and Honokaʻa or scenic locations like Makawao and Waimea you will not forget your exhilarating and rewarding adventures in the most eccentric towns in Hawaii photos and original descriptions © 2025 worldatlas.com Veterans were honored for their military service during a Veterans Day program Monday at Maui Veterans Cemetery in Makawao The ceremony include the presentation of flowers at monuments for the Vietnam War World War I and World War II by members of the US Naval Sea Cadet Corps Sam Fevella of the Korean War Veterans Association paid tribute to members Richard Tavares Sr Keegan McCoy of the US Space Force 15 Space Surveillance Squadron was guest speaker we are proud to stand here in your honor.” A one-year-old Makawao boy succumbed to injuries sustained when he was struck by a car that was pulling into a driveway of a home in Kahului on Thursday night Police say the boy was on the sidewalk fronting a residence on Pōheoheo Place when he was struck by a gray 2016 Nissan Altima the child sustained life-threatening injuries and was transported to the Maui Memorial Medical Center Emergency Room for treatment Police say the involvement of speed is not a factor in this collision The involvement of drugs and alcohol has not been determined as the investigation is ongoing This was Maui County’s eighth traffic fatality of 2025 compared to four at the same time last year The County of Maui Department of Environmental Management is opening two temporary Christmas tree drop-off sites in Kīhei and Makawao on Saturday The temporary locations are in addition to the ongoing green waste drop-off services throughout Maui County All ornaments and tinsel should be removed from trees before they are taken to drop-off locations The department reminds residents that Christmas trees can be a fire hazard and it is illegal to dispose of trees in unpermitted locations The temporary Christmas tree drop-off locations and hours are: Trees can be dropped off at the temporary locations through Jan Ongoing Green Waste Drop Off services are available at: For more information, call the County Recycling Office at 808-270-7880 or visit www.mauicounty.gov/recycle Hawaii’s small towns embrace a spirit of warmth and connection offering visitors a warm and authentic welcome Pack your bags and explore these neighborly communities to experience Hawaii’s true hospitality The strong sense of community in Hanalei is evident in its preservation of cultural landmarks and traditions is a popular spot where both locals and visitors connect The town’s deep-rooted heritage is reflected in Waiʻoli Huiʻia Church which remains an active center for worship and community events Art lovers can explore Havaiki Oceanic and Tribal Art which showcases unique pieces that celebrate the diverse cultural influences of Hanalei Nature lovers can explore the Limahuli Garden and Preserve home to native Hawaiian flora and conservation efforts Hanalei Bread Company serves freshly baked goods in a cozy allows visitors to connect with farmers and artisans offering another glimpse into Hanalei’s strong community spirit Neighborliness thrives in this upcountry town where paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) traditions blend with a vibrant arts scene celebrates the town’s ranching heritage with rodeo competitions visitors can admire works from Maui’s best artists Makawao’s past is preserved at the Makawao History Museum which highlights the town’s plantation-era heritage A must-visit spot is Komoda Store & Bakery famous for its cream puffs and stick donuts the Makawao Forest Reserve offers scenic trails winding through eucalyptus and pine groves providing a peaceful retreat for the community Hawi’s neighborly spirit is deeply rooted in its heritage and strong local traditions. The Kamehameha Statue honors King Kamehameha I, a significant figure in Hawaiian history Pololū Valley Lookout offers panoramic views and a scenic trail leading to a black sand beach provides insight into the region’s agricultural past Visitors looking to experience local hospitality can stop by Bamboo Restaurant and Gallery a restored plantation-era building serving traditional dishes alongside live music A deep appreciation for culture and community shapes this vibrant surf town. The Paia Youth & Cultural Center fosters a strong sense of belonging through educational programs and local outreach. The town’s diverse heritage is reflected in the Great Paia Lha Bab Peace Stupa, a Buddhist monument that serves as a gathering space for meditation and reflection Outdoor enthusiasts can visit Ho’okipa Beach Park renowned for its world-class windsurfing and frequent sea turtle sightings Those interested in art can explore the Paia Contemporary Gallery which highlights the work of native Hawaiian painters and sculptors Visitors looking to support the town’s sustainability efforts can stop at Mana Foods a beloved organic market with a strong community focus Artistic expression and local traditions define Hanapepe’s close-knit community Hanapepe Art Night has transformed the town every Friday This weekly tradition allows both visitors and residents to connect while exploring the town’s vibrant art scene The town’s history is preserved in the Hanapepe Swinging Bridge a plantation-era structure that has linked residents for generations the Hanapepe Salt Ponds showcase a centuries-old tradition where families continue to harvest salt using traditional methods the Hanapepe Valley Lookout provides a peaceful retreat a stop at Lappert’s Hawaii for handcrafted ice cream and coffee is a favorite among locals Unlike Hawaii’s crowded resort towns, Lanai City fosters a true sense of community where everyone knows each other Dole Park serves as a gathering space for picnics the Lanai Pineapple Festival has brought residents together for cultural performances and a shared appreciation of the island’s plantation heritage The Lanai Culture & Heritage Center preserves the island’s rich past displaying artifacts from its days as a pineapple plantation the Lanai Cat Sanctuary offers visitors the chance to interact with rescued cats in an open-air setting Blue Ginger Cafe serves homestyle comfort food that keeps both residents and visitors coming back Creativity and coffee define this hillside community the Holualoa Coffee & Art Stroll fills the streets with artists and fresh brews turns the town into a lively block party with live music Art lovers can explore the Glyph Art Gallery featuring works from over three dozen Big Island artists the Puʻu Waʻawaʻa Cinder Cone Trail offers panoramic ocean views and winds through native forests and lava fields visitors can experience Holualoa’s rich coffee culture at Ueshima Coffee Company where they can tour a working Kona coffee farm and sample freshly roasted beans With deep sugar plantation roots and strong community ties The Koloa Plantation Days Festival brings residents together each year for parades and cultural performances celebrating the town’s past offers historical insights with interpretive signs marking important plantation-era and native Hawaiian sites Nature lovers can unwind at Poipu Beach Park a favorite spot for snorkeling and family picnics and koi ponds within a historic plantation estate Visitors looking for a taste of local cuisine can stop at Koloa Fish Market known for its fresh poke and Hawaiian plate lunches Hawaii’s small towns are more than just scenic destinations—they are thriving From the artistic streets of Holualoa to the cowboy traditions of Makawao each town reflects a unique piece of the islands’ heritage Residents preserve their traditions through festivals like the Koloa Plantation Days Festival with breathtaking spots like Pololū Valley Lookout in Hawi Puʻu Waʻawaʻa Cinder Cone Trail in Holualoa and Poipu Beach Park in Koloa offering peaceful retreats Art lovers will find inspiration at the Glyph Art Gallery in Holualoa and Paia Contemporary Gallery while Ueshima Coffee Company and Koloa Fish Market provide a taste of local life hosted by the Oskie Rice Event Center and Kaonoulu Ranch is proud to introduce the 2024 Makawao Stampede Queen Shylee is the daughter of Alex and Carie Gomes of Wailuku and granddaughter of TJ and Sandi Gomes of TJ Gomes Trucking Co Shylee is an alumna of the Hawai’i High School Rodeo Association- Maui District and a current member of the Kaupakalua Roping Club where she competes in breakaway roping and loves the adrenaline rush of barrel racing off of her palomino horse named Twinkie Shylee will serve as an ambassador to the sport of rodeo and perpetuate the Paniolo heritage Shylee strives to represent everyone within the rodeo community and exemplify the values instilled within each cowboy and cowgirl She describes it as a bond between the livestock and competitors the relationships built between animals and people emphasizing the familial bond created between cowboys and their willingness to help others and their animals with utmost care and respect Shylee would like to express her gratitude to her parents for their support throughout her rodeo and personal endeavors and to her family and friends who have been a tremendous support system and believe in her and Makawao Stampede organizers for providing her with this opportunity she would like to thank those who have brought her to where she is today as it would not have been possible without them We encourage you all to show your support for Shylee and our paniolo at the 2024 Makawao Stampede which will kick off on Friday with an adrenaline pumping Bull Bash sponsored by Monster Energy Kapena at 5PM with rodeo to follow at 7 p.m. and an action packed rodeo weekend on July 6 and 7 starting at 1 p.m with pre-show performances by the Rob Tracy band on Saturday Director of ʻĀina Stewardship at Hawai’i Land Trust Community engagement included the introduction of “Little Free Art Galleries” at two Makawao Town areas which were fabricated by Seabury Hall’s Engineering student body; an artist talk-story event at Hui No‘eau Visual Arts Center a panel discussion at the Library with the artist and storytellers and exchanges with the Maui Public Art Youth Task Force Rooted in ‘Ōlelo No‘eau ʻAʻohe pau ka ʻike i ka hālau hoʻokahi (All knowledge is not taught in the same school) the sculpture will be on view through July 2024 The artwork features untreated 2×4 construction lumber that weathers and slightly changes in appearance over the span of its existence while remaining formally coherent and structurally stable The weaving pattern may be understood as an expression of interconnectedness stories and partners that came together to bring this project to life which will reflect back some of the beauty of the people and place which make our community so unique We hope to continue to be a gathering place for learning and creativity for many years to come.” Maui Public Art Corps connects people, place and story through the development of exceptional public art. It was founded in 2020 to expand the work of SMALL TOWN * BIG ART countywide in partnership with the Maui Historical Society and County of Maui.  Learn more at mauipublicart.org/makawao.html Hawaii joined the United States as the 50th state in 1959 bringing a fraught history of native culture Tucked along its beaches and upcountry slopes are small towns brimming with oddball charm—alien parks If you’re game to trade resorts for something real these seven off-the-beaten-path towns fit the bill While Lāhainā was formerly one of the most eclectic towns in Hawaii and resilience lives on—and it remains a symbol of everything that makes these towns so unforgettable Pāhoa celebrates its lava-born roots and counterculture attitude where the town’s fiery past is chronicled in vintage photos and bizarre memorabilia Don’t miss the otherworldly Raëlian UFO Peace Park a roadside shrine to alien creators—no joke garlic shrimp and live music draw a revolving crowd of locals and visitors stop at the spooky Lava Tree State Monument where lava-petrified trees appear frozen mid-eruption where hardened lava devours the road—a strange post-apocalyptic testament to nature’s power The drive to Hāna is half the fun—the Road to Hāna packs in over 600 turns and waterfalls but the real reward is what awaits at the end where plantation-era artifacts and family heirlooms offer a glimpse into the Hawaii of old a peaceful black sand beach ideal for beginners and shallow-water divers looking to spot reef fish and sea turtles Visit Waiʻanapanapa State Park for the otherworldly pairing of black sand beaches and lava caves and follow the cliffside trail to Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach a secluded cove with rust-colored sands and roaring waves behind a rock ridge Hikers should be careful though as access is hazardous due to erosion Begin the day with a free fall over the coast at B.I.G where a short hike brings you to a black sand beach ringed by tall cliffs and crashing surf a rocky shoreline where stone foundations mark the remains of an ancient fishing village When you’re ready to trade lava rock for turquoise water spend the afternoon snorkeling at Waialea Beach (Beach 69)—serene and tucked behind a grove of twisted trees Makawao is the place where Hawaii trades surfboards for saddles shaded haven with redwoods and wild guava trees and a whole lot more fun than they have any right to be—especially if you’re tearing downhill through fog In July, the Makawao Rodeo allows the whole town to go wild with bull riding, barrel racing, and a sea of dust and cowboy hats Buy spicy pickles and locally made honey at the Upcountry Farmers Market where cowboys and cowgirls continue to practice with determination Hanapēpē isn’t trying to impress you—it just does. Walk across the swaying Hanapēpē Swinging Bridge, where every step feels like a dare and the river rolls slowly beneath you. Wander into Talk Story Bookstore, the westernmost bookstore in the U.S. Fridays hit differently with Hanapēpē Art Night and locals selling everything from hand-poured candles to banana lumpia Entrance to the Thurston Nāhuku Lava Tube surrounded by lush tropical vegetation in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park This town is on the edge—literally. On the border of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, the town of Volcano sits near the continuously active Kīlauea which erupted again just this week—a reminder of how alive this land is Start with a stroll through the Nāhuku Lava Tube echoing tunnel formed by molten lava centuries ago Walk the sculpture garden at Volcano Garden Arts where the windows gaze directly into the crater and shops that sell everything from vintage vinyl to glass jellyfish Rent a cruiser and ride the Ke Ala Hele Makalae a coastal bike path that runs past tide pools Snorkel in the clear shallows at Lydgate Beach Park then dig into pineapple sausage and Hawaiian plate lunch at the open-air Pono Market Wrap the day with a hike up the Nounou East Trail where switchbacks and ironwood trees lead to a ridge with panoramic views stretching to the sea From the windy valleys of the Big Island to the beach towns of Kaua‘i covered in murals and tide pools Hawaii’s small towns are as varied as the islands Dotting a chain of volcanic peaks in the middle of the Pacific and homegrown legends that never made it into guidebooks What they have in common is that nothing here feels mass-produced—just real people and a dash of weirdness in the very best sense Join us for an unforgettable Upcountry evening featuring a delicious Paniolo buffet and live music and the night will heat up with dancing after dinner.Enjoy our drink specials including a Tamarind Whiskey Sour – a crowd favorite Please note: The live band will keep the energy high during the dancing portion so the music may be loud due to the intimate venue Paniolo BBQ Dates:MAR 6APR 10MAY 8JUN 5JUL 10AUG 7SEP 11OCT 9 Hawaii has diverse landscapes from volcanic peaks and lush rainforests to golden beaches and rugged coastlines the islands are home to small towns that offer a rich blend of history these towns sit in some of Hawaii’s most stunning regions nestled in the coffee-growing hills of Kona or along world-famous surf breaks Their main streets are more than places to shop and dine; they are windows into Hawaii’s past and present Whether you're exploring the colorful boutiques of Haleiwa these main streets are must-visit spots that deserve a place on your next Hawaiian adventure Let's visit 10 Hawaiian towns with unforgettable Main Streets Nestled on the windward coast of Oahu, Kailua is known for its pristine beaches The town is home to Kailua Beach and Lanikai Beach two of the most picturesque shorelines in Hawaii this area offers a unique mix of coastal beauty and suburban charm with a strong focus on supporting local businesses and sustainability and various restaurants offering fresh island cuisine The weekly Kailua Farmers' Market is a highlight where locals and visitors can sample farm-to-table goods where former President Obama famously gets his shave ice With a walkable layout and a friendly atmosphere Kailua’s main street is an essential stop for those looking to experience an authentic slice of Hawaiian life Makawao, located in Upcountry Maui is famous for its paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) history and artistic community The town sits approximately 1,500 feet on the slopes of Haleakalā offering cooler temperatures and scenic island views Makawao played a significant role in Hawaii’s cattle ranching industry and its heritage is still visible today through events like the annual Makawao Rodeo Baldwin Avenue serves as Makawao’s main street where visitors can explore a mix of old plantation-era buildings and modern artisan shops Makawao is renowned for its thriving arts scene with galleries like the Viewpoints Gallery and Makawao Fine Art showcasing local talent which has been serving legendary cream puffs and malasadas since 1916 and culture makes Makawao’s main street a must-see destination on Maui Haleiwa is the heart of Oahu’s North Shore known for its legendary surf culture and historic charm Haleiwa has preserved its rustic character with wooden storefronts and vintage signs while becoming a hotspot for surf enthusiasts and travelers with stunning coastal views and access to some of the world’s most famous surf breaks Haleiwa is also home to the Anahulu Stream Bridge a picturesque arched structure often featured in photos of the area Kamehameha Highway is Haleiwa’s main street draws visitors with its colorful frozen treats The North Shore Marketplace offers a mix of boutique shopping and dining and charming storefronts makes it an essential stop on Oahu’s North Shore Nestled in the lush coffee-growing hills of Kona Holualoa is a hidden gem known for its art scene and deep-rooted coffee culture The town sits along the slopes of Hualālai offering stunning panoramic views of the coastline below Holualoa’s volcanic soil and ideal climate make it a prime location for growing world-famous Kona coffee with many farms offering tastings and tours The town’s history dates back to the 1800s when it served as a hub for coffee farmers and artisans it continues to thrive as a center for creativity and craftsmanship Holualoa’s main street is a charming stretch lined with art galleries The Holualoa Gallery and Glyph Art Gallery showcase works from local artists while the Holualoa Coffee Company provides an authentic farm-to-cup experience The annual Holualoa Village Coffee & Art Stroll celebrates the town’s two primary industries drawing visitors to enjoy freshly roasted coffee while admiring handcrafted artwork off-the-beaten-path experience on the Big Island A former sugar plantation town turned artsy beachside haven, Paia is Maui’s gateway to the famous Road to Hana this colorful town embraces a bohemian lifestyle with a mix of surf culture makes it a favorite among ocean sports enthusiasts Its charming plantation-style buildings reflect its sugarcane past while housing modern art galleries Hana Highway runs through Paia as its main street an organic grocery store popular with locals and visitors The Paia Contemporary Gallery showcases stunning artwork while boutiques offer everything from handmade jewelry to resort wear Mama’s Fish House serves some of the island’s best seafood Paia is a must-visit destination for those looking to experience a different side of Maui Koloa is often called the birthplace of Hawaii’s sugar industry the town was home to Hawaii’s first thriving sugar plantation with well-preserved plantation-era buildings and lush greenery surrounding the town Koloa is also a gateway to the scenic Poipu Beach area known for its golden sands and excellent snorkeling Visitors can learn about the town’s past through interpretive plaques and historical sites throughout the region The Old Koloa Town district features rustic storefronts housing charming boutiques and eateries which has been serving locals for over a century The Koloa Heritage Trail offers a self-guided journey through the town’s sugarcane history making this main street a shopping and dining hub and a window into Kauai’s past Lanai City offers a peaceful retreat unlike other Hawaiian towns with no traffic lights Once a booming pineapple plantation town owned by the Dole Company offering cooler temperatures and a refreshing escape from the coastal heat and slow-paced lifestyle make it feel like a step back Lanai City is also the gateway to the island’s secluded beaches and rugged landscapes including the iconic rock formations at Keahiakawelo Visitors can explore the Lanai Culture & Heritage Center which showcases artifacts from the island’s plantation days and native Hawaiian history the Mike Carroll Gallery features breathtaking artwork inspired by Lanai’s landscapes Lanai City’s main street provides an authentic glimpse into Hawaii’s quieter side Set against the rolling green pastures of North Hawaii Waimea blends Hawaiian heritage with paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) culture one of the largest cattle ranches in the U.S. Waimea’s history is deeply tied to ranching traditions that date back to the 1800s offering cooler temperatures and breathtaking views of Mauna Kea It’s also home to scientific institutions such as the W which studies the night skies from the summit of Mauna Kea Mamalahoa Highway runs through Waimea’s central district Visitors can learn about Hawaii’s ranching history at the Parker Ranch Historic Homes or explore boutique galleries featuring handcrafted goods Whether you are indulging in locally raised grass-fed beef or browsing handmade crafts Waimea’s main street offers a unique blend of history Nicknamed “Kauai’s Biggest Little Town,” Hanapepe is a historic plantation-era town with a thriving arts scene with wooden storefronts and a laid-back atmosphere The town is also known as the inspiration for Disney’s "Lilo & Stitch," adding to its cultural significance Hanapepe is an easy stop for those exploring Waimea Canyon and other westside attractions Hanapepe Road is the town’s vibrant main street Hanapepe comes alive with its famous Art Night making it a must-visit for art lovers and history buffs Tucked away in North Kohala Hawi is a small town known for its lush scenery it has transformed into a vibrant community with a mix of local boutiques Hawi is also near the birthplace of King Kamehameha I makes it a scenic stop along the Kohala Coast Hawi’s main street is lined with colorful plantation-era buildings housing artisan shops and galleries showcasing Hawaiian craftsmanship Visitors can explore the Kohala Welcome Center which offers insight into the region’s history or stop by the Bamboo Restaurant & Gallery for locally inspired cuisine Hawi is a hidden gem worth exploring with its relaxed pace and strong sense of culture Hawaii’s small-town main streets offer more than just shopping and dining; they reflect the islands’ history Whether strolling beneath Haleiwa’s iconic Anahulu Bridge these destinations provide an authentic glimpse into island life these 11 Hawaiian towns with unforgettable Main Streets are must-visit stops that add depth and character to any Hawaiian getaway The Honpa Hongwanji Federation State Judo Championships made its triumphant return to the Valley Isle as host Makawao Hongwanji Judo Club welcomed more than 121 judoka and their families from across the state Judoka from six different Hongwanji judo clubs filled the King Kekaulike High School Gymnasium over the muggy Labor Day weekend “My first parents’ meeting left me wondering if we were going to be able to pull this off or not,” said tournament head and Makawao Hongwanji Judo Club Sensei Claude Moreau who has been planning this two-day tournament for more than a year “We have been rebuilding our club since the pandemic concluded and soon a few parents bought into the idea Moreau was amazed by the various roles that Makawao Hongwanji Judo Club parents and its supporters played in the success of the tournament “We all experienced a moment that all involved will always remember All of our club members are very proud of ourselves for pulling this event off Moreau was very appreciative to have the support and backing of the Makawao Hongwanji Buddhist Temple congregation and its minister He shared how the temple allowed its members to use the kitchen to make food for the tournament’s concession stand and for the hospitality evening “The Honpa Hongwanji Judo Federation state championships are a shining example of what a Hongwanji temple can be for its community: a chance for anyone to be part of a community centered around the temple and its Buddhist values,” shared Reverend Kiyohara to be humble in victory and graceful in defeat Moreau also expressed his gratitude for the support provided by other judo clubs temples such as the Wailuku Hongwanji Mission and donations from various community members and local businesses He highlighted the support received in a range of areas including managing the match-making and scorers’ tables and having onsite medical staff to attend to any injured judoka several of his family members volunteered for critical tasks “The beauty of this tournament is that not one person can do it all,” said Moreau as he reflected on the tournament “This brought the whole community together to support a common goal We used the Buddhist principle of Dana: doing something because it is the right thing to do but because it simply is the right thing to do.” Even though the cost of travel and lodging continues to increase making it more difficult to host tournaments such as the Honpa Hongwanji Judo Federation State Championships many involved with the tournament share the sentiment that the tradition needs to continue Moreau cited how their club was able to gain approval from Makawao Hongwanji Buddhist Temple to allow the neighbor island judo clubs to stay over the weekend in the temple’s Social Hall to save money on accommodations “I think it’s vitally important for the Honpa Hongwanji Judo Federation State Championships to continue because it creates the time and occasion for connection and re-connection which is the primary role of a Buddhist temple,” said Reverend Kiyohara young people from across the state come together creating connections that last a lifetime.” Reverend Kiyohara was impressed by how many sensei of the various judo clubs literally grew up in the Hongwanji judo system beginning as young judoka competing and now serving as coaches and sensei to a new generation Moreau emphasized the tradition and camaraderie gained through the Honpa Hongwanji Judo Federation State Championships “They will make lifelong friends,” said Moreau speaking about the judoka and judo clubs that attended the 62nd Honpa Hongwanji State Judo Championships “The judo community has some very special people in it Pearl City Hongwanji Judo Club was the top judo club at the 62nd Honpa Hongwanji State Judo Championships winning nine Dantai (team event) titles out of 13 divisions Their team took home the Female Minor A and C; Female Intermediate Open; and Male Minor A and C; Male Intermediate Pearl City Hongwanji Judo Club had the most individual titles with 21 champions Their club was also awarded the Edward Katahira Ippon Award which is given to the club with the most ippons scored as a team Wailuku Hongwanji Judo Club’s girls’ team had a successful outing finishing with two team titles in the Female Minor B (Ceydee McCorriston and Risa Cabral) and Female Junior divisions (Pohai Kamaunu They rounded out the weekend with six individual champions: Izabella Morikawa (Female B2 Heavy) Kira Yoshimoto (Female Intermediate 2 under 75 pounds) Meiko Kurokawa (Female Intermediate 2 under 92 pounds) Madelein Milliet (Female Juvenile B over 154 pounds) and Mahealani Vares (Female Juvenile C under 154 pounds) Wailuku Hongwanji Judo Club also captured the Male Senior division team title (Kody Sakamoto and Joshua Mori) Cayde Kusumoto (Male Novice 9yr Heavy) and Mason Kurokawa (Male Juvenile A under 117 pounds) won a pair of male individual titles Makawao Hongwanji Judo Club took first in the team Male Minor B division (Jay Campos and Landon Lung (Male Juvenile A over 141 pounds) secured male titles Mia Nishikawa (Female Novice 6yr) was Makawao Hongwanji Judo Club’s lone female champion Toby Borja and Kayden Ibara also won the Division 2 Nage No Kata throwing demonstration “I am not overly concerned about the results,” said Moreau about his club’s performance over the weekend “I tell the kids that I don’t even call tournaments ‘tournaments.’ I call them learning experiences Pearl City Hongwanji Judo Club graciously stepped up to host the 63rd Honpa Hongwanji Federation State Judo Championships next year At King Kekaulike High School GymnasiumAug 62nd ANNUAL HONPA HONGWANJI STATE KATA (FORM) 62nd ANNUAL HONPA HANGWANJI STATE DANTAI (TEAM) 62 nd ANNUAL HONPA HANGWANJI STATE KOJIN (INDIVIDUAL) 62 nd ANNUAL HONPA HANGWANJI STATE SPECIAL AWARDS History buffs will have an opportunity to see portrayals of sugar barons from the 19th- and early 20th-century Hawai‘i in performances of “How Sweet It Is” at the July 27-28 debut of “Makawao Cemetery Theatre.” The performances are sponsored by the Hawaiian Mission Houses Historic Site and Archives and the Makawao Cemetery Association and performances will start promptly at 4 p.m Tickets are available at www.maui-cemetery.com Makawao Cemetery Theatre: “How Sweet It Is” will bring history to life with carefully researched and scripted actor portrayals of figures from Hawaiʻi’s history The performance will feature three actor portrayals focused on the history of the sugar industry in 19th- and early 20th-century Hawaiʻi The tour was made possible by The Fred Baldwin Memorial Foundation and Haleakala Ranch Co James Campbell (1826-1900) Born in Londonderry he joined a whaling crew and was shipwrecked in the Tuamotu Islands he lived there for several years before traveling to Lahaina in partnership with Henry Turton and James Dunbar he founded Pioneer Mill Company in Lahaina and in 1863 the company bought the Lahaina Sugar Plantation The company was profitable and Campbell used his proceeds to purchase land on Hawaiʻi Island and Oʻahu He sunk the first artesian wells on the ‘Ewa Plain which opened up Leeward Oʻahu to more expansive sugar plantation operations He also owned ranches at Honouliuli and Kahuku on Oʻahu becoming one of the largest landowners and wealthiest people in Hawaiʻi. Christopher Denton portrays James Campbell Henry Perrine Baldwin (1842-1911) Born in Lahaina to missionary parents Rev Dwight Baldwin and Charlotte Fowler Baldwin he attended Punahou School on Oʻahu before returning to Maui to become a farmer His first plantation manager job was for William D and he went to work for his brother’s small sugar cane farm He worked as a luna at the Waiheʻe Planation managed by his future business partner Samuel T they began planting in Hāmākuapoko on Maui and he oversaw the construction of the Hāmākua Ditch irrigation system He oversaw the building of several mills on Maui such as the Hāmākuapoko Mill Alexander and Baldwin was officially incorporated in 1900 and is still an ongoing business today a sailor who died at sea while William was young He sailed to Hawaiʻi with his friends and business partners William Hooper and Peter Brinsmade They incorporated as Ladd & Company in 1833 and opened up a dry goods store at Honolulu Harbor the company leased over 900 acres from the government at Kōloa Kōloa Plantation was the first attempt at a commercial sugar cane plantation in Hawaiʻi but the business partners took on more and more debt to finance improvements to their sugar mill and to obtain more land Attempting to shore up their finances Brinsmade went to Europe and struck a deal with the Belgian Colonization Company which fell through after the Paulet Affair of 1843 Ladd & Company closed its store in Honolulu in 1844 has been a theater professional for over 30 years his career has taken him to almost every state in the Union He has been a recipient of awards for directing and performance serves as associate professor of costume design/technology at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa Speetjens’ work in costumes has spanned from Boston to Hawaiʻi and in-between Recent works include Pagliacci (Hawai’i Opera Theatre) and ‘Au’a ‘Ia: Holding On (UH Mānoa Hana Keaka) For more information or ticket purchases, visit www.maui-cemetery.com WAILUKU–Seabury Hall is thrilled to announce the Seabury Pāʻina a special celebration of the school’s 60th anniversary This milestone event will take place on Saturday setting the stage for an unforgettable celebration that honors the school’s rich legacy and deep connection to the Maui community A delicious Hawaiian cuisine dinner will be served at 6 p.m. offering a taste of island flavors that will complement the night’s vibrant entertainment lineup Attendees will be treated to performances by Jeff Peterson the Grammy Award-winning slack key guitarist and world renowned Mick Fleetwood & the Island Rumours Band DJ O’Soulmain will close out the night with an exciting mix of island-inspired beats In addition to the captivating entertainment guests will have the chance to participate in a live auction and Raise the Paddle event supporting Seabury Hall’s mission of providing excellence in education The Seabury Pāʻina is not only a celebration of the school’s 60 years of educating young minds but also an opportunity for alumni and supporters to come together for a night of fellowship Mick Fleetwood & the Island Rumours Band For more information about the Seabury Pāʻina email paina@seaburyhall .org or contact Kaimana Brummel at (808) 572-7235 KAHULUI–Makawao’s newest business features local Maui artists who lost their main source of income after the devastating fires destroyed their art and the galleries that hosted them Maui is known worldwide as one of the most beautiful destinations in the world With so much beauty and inspiration around every corner Maui has become a haven for artists to immerse themselves in the beauty and culture this Hawaiian island provides But after fires ripped through the artsy town of Lahaina killing over one-hundred people and destroying thousands of homes and businesses many local artists have been struggling to find new galleries to show their artwork Lahaina was one of the top art destinations in the world with dozens of galleries showcasing some of the island’s most talented artists Visitors from around the world came to enjoy a stroll through Lahaina and meet artists in person as they demonstrated their craft Now those moments will only be enjoyed as memories until Lahaina rebuilds Upcountry Gallery just opened its doors last week in Makawao Makawao has a charm that is attractive to new and seasoned visitors alike And with the new gallery opening its doors The gallery is located in the center of Makawao at 3660 Baldwin Ave. directly across from the Rodeo General store Check out the beautiful art in person from 10 a.m The 56th Annual Makawao Parade takes place on Saturday The Makawao Parade has long been a cherished tradition “Our heartfelt appreciation goes to our esteemed title sponsor whose generosity and commitment to our community have set the stage for an unforgettable event,” organizers said This year’s sponsors include: County of Maui The lineup features mounted and walking units, classic cars, floats, marching bands and special tributes. The 2024 Parade Marshal is Eugene DeRogo, a beloved figure in the community, known for his dedication and service. The parade will also pay loving tribute to special honoree the late Gladys Baisa The parade will begin at Makawao Elementary School and the route will wind its way through the heart of Makawao Town and ending at the Makawao Ave./Makani Road intersection The ever-popular Keiki Stick Horse Race offers a chance for children to participate in the festivities Registration begins at 7:45 a.m at Designing Wahine on Baldwin Ave. There will be a live country concert on the day of the parade at the Oskie Rice Event Center starting at noon until 5 p.m Guests are invited to bring their lawn chairs and blankets Hālau Keala Kahinano o Puna and Te Ohi Nui with emcee Augie T Tickets are required for entry. Event concert tickets are available to purchase at etix.com. For more information, go to oskiericeeventcenter.com “Whether you’re a community group local business or simply an individual looking to join in the fun there are plenty of ways to get involved,” organizers said “Let’s come together to celebrate tradition and the vibrant culture of Makawao Town.” To secure a spot in the procession or get more information and updates, visit the makawaoparade.com site or email info@makawaoparade.com Visitation will be held from 9-11am on Wednesday at Ballard Family Mortuary; eulogy and services to start at 11am; burial will follow 1pm at the Maui Veteran’s Cemetery in Makawao babysat the neighborhood children and gave all her time to her grandchildren She was predeceased by her beloved husband Gloria Tom Sun (Philbert); 11 grandchidren Hayley Fernandez; and 9 great grandchildren; and 1 great great grandchild also known as the Makawao State Forest Reserve Access Road on Maui will face a two-month closure starting next week to undergo infrastructure improvements related to storm drainage and debris mitigation The work is scheduled from May 2 through June 28 Construction will include installation of a six-foot-wide drainage feature along the Kahakapao Access Road corridor in a preventive effort to reduce recurring costs associated with storm damage repair and debris cleanup This project will improve the effectiveness of collecting and channeling storm runoff and debris away from the Kahakapao Access Road into nearby gulches and ravines Kahakapao Access Road serves as the main access route into and out of the Makawao State Forest Reserve and Kahakapao Recreation Area (KRA) The road provides safe access into the reserve for many user groups and county workers at the Piʻiholo Water Treatment Facility located at the reserve The contractor for the project is Sonny Vick’s Paving Inc. and the construction cost estimate is $380,000.  WAIHOU SPRING FOREST RESERVE AND TRAIL SET TO REOPEN MAUI) – Waihou Spring Forest Reserve and trail will reopen to residents and visitors on April 1 seven months after its emergency closure due to damage caused by wildfire and high winds Substantial windfall and burn damage from the August 2023 Olinda Fire kept DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW) crews busy and prevented visitation to the reserve due to safety concerns Some trees were partially broken or had hanging limbs while others were leaning or had fallen over completely “DOFAW crews felled and bucked (cut into usable lengths) hundreds of hazardous trees in the process to restore access,” said Lance DeSilva “The closure allowed staff to work efficiently and unobstructed effectively shortening the time to the reopening.” Tucked into the northwest slope of Haleakalā is 186 acres of reforested land that is popular for day use “The Waihou Spring and trail are features that add to the value of this reserve and we’re glad to reopen it for community use.” Photographs – Waihou Spring Forest Reserve and Trail (March 22 https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/yilf6t06hs080sdpwoizh/h?rlkey=xlsqwpthnh48rog1keubelco8&dl=0 [email protected] With Shipping Tips & USPS Operation Santa Reminder Postal Service recently recognized the Kula Makawao and Pukalani Post Offices as among its very best postal retail offices in the entire nation The Makawao and Kula Post Offices are tied with each other for second in the nation with 44 consecutive Retail Customer Experience (RCE) or “mystery shop,” perfect scores and the Pukalani Post Office ranks sixth nationally with 31 consecutive perfect scores The secret to the success of these three offices is clear to Makawao Postmaster Danielle Boteilho “Upcountry Maui is more than just a pretty place,” she says “Those of us who live and work here possess tremendous community pride and truly care for each other.” The RCE program employs contractors who visit Post Offices and document their experiences via standardized questionnaires The questionnaires measure USPS retail clerks’ deliverables in appearance and a series of safety and service questions The Makawao Post Office’s perfect-score streak began in 2010 “That is a prodigious accomplishment!” said USPS Hawaii District Manager Eileen Veach “I applaud our Upcountry Maui retail teams for providing such excellent service to their customers.”  “I’m so proud of our Makawao team!” said Boteilho “I’m filled with gratitude and appreciation for each employee It’s an absolute honor for our office to be tied with Kula for second in the entire nation in this important indicator I’m truly blessed with the best employees “Their success is a result of teamwork and stems from an understanding of the importance of the RCE program and a commitment to delivering excellent retail experiences to their customers.” The Makawao management team promotes RCE excellence by conducting group discussions and leading role-playing exercises that test their retail clerks’ skills and product knowledge Employee retail observations are also conducted to measure employee performance They also track their office’s RCE results on a bulletin board and recognize their clerks during office-wide presentations Over the years they have celebrated their success in a variety of fun ways “A huge part of our success is the positive rapport that our employees have established with their customers,” Boteilho notes “Our team is committed to delivering customer excellence with every single transaction That attitude is exactly what the RCE program is intended to foster “A high RCE score is the mark of an engaged and motivated retail team that values customer service and has likely implemented effective policies and mentoring to ensure positive retail interactions,” said USPS Retail Experience Specialist Misty Wilhelm “It’s not just about the score “The goal of the program is to drive changes in behavior that improve customer satisfaction The bottom line is that excellent customer service builds brand loyalty and helps to ensure the success of the Postal Service.” The United States Postal Service is an independent federal establishment, mandated to be self-financing and to serve every American community through the affordable, reliable and secure delivery of mail and packages to 169 million addresses six and often seven days a week. Overseen by a bipartisan Board of Governors, the Postal Service is implementing a 10-year transformation plan, Delivering for America restore long-term financial sustainability dramatically improve service across all mail and shipping categories and maintain the organization as one of America’s most valued and trusted brands The Postal Service generally receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage products and services to fund its operations Copyright© 2025 United States Postal Service They arrive very early and brave the morning Makawao chill wanting to make sure they get first crack at the fresh malasadas long johns and other delectable handmade bakery products at the Komoda Store and Bakery both visitors consulting with Maui County’s transportation department “We asked for the best place to get malasadas and we were told this is the place we had to go to.” Kirschen showed up on a Wednesday only to find the store was closed on that day To tell the story of the Komoda Store and Bakery is in many ways to tell a tale of more than a century of family of consistent and delicious products lovingly made and an odd attachment to the midwest and its colleges The storefront takes you back in time; inside it’s a bit dim We are the lone survivors of the mom and pop shops All the others are transplants,” Calvin said The business actually began in 1916 at a site close to what is now Polli’s Mexican Restaurant a block or two up Makawao Avenue The Shibuyas pride themselves on the quality of their product and knowing just how much to make on a daily basis to avoid waste The store sells approximately 400 creampuffs a day and about 200 malasadas though quantities for both were higher before the pandemic The Shibuyas said the original store was a saimin and sandwich shop that made its own bread.  It later had an interaction as sort of a general store that served the paniolo population It was like Ace Hardware without the bakery “We sold everything from horseshoes to chicken feed,” he said She grew up in Makawao and he was raised at Alabama Camp in the Puʻunēnē Plantation they met not in Kahului or Wailuku but in Chicago “I wanted to go to college in the midwest,” said Betty who was studying to be a teacher at Indiana State University “I wanted to experience the four seasons.” “I wanted to go to a Big Ten school.” He was studying aeronautics at the University of Illinois “I wanted to be a pilot,” he said Apparently there was an organization that staged dances for Hawaiian students in the midwest far from home The first dances were at the YMCA but Calvin recalled The dance parties at the YMCA got a bit too rowdy so the students eventually had to rent a floor at a hotel to express their collective aloha “life is what happens to you while you’re busy making other plans.” Calvin entered the Air Force and flew combat missions in Vietnam “I’m one of the fortunates who made it back I don’t talk much about it,” he said He still had dreams of being a commercial pilot Calvin stepped in and learned the ropes even earning an MBA to prepare himself for running a business the place was iconic and I couldn’t let it close,” he said.  Like so many immigrants he came to work in the sugar mill He found the conditions to be too hot and humid and made his way to Makawao where he began to do yard work for the Cooks Betty’s uncle Ikuo Komoda was the chief baker and eventually wound up at a baking school in Minnesota “That’s where he learned to make modern pastries and different kinds of baked goods it was just too cold,” Betty remembered fondly Calvin was tutored by Ikuo and eventually learned the baking business I really enjoyed running the bakery and seeing the business succeed,” Calvin said Over the years there have been upgrades to the refrigeration system and other infrastructure but little else has changed at this location since the early 1950s Komodas had to deal with the hardships of COVID-19.  Calvin said he closed the store for about six weeks “The worst part of the pandemic was not knowing what to expect We shut down but I got antsy and we needed the revenue so we reopened with the help of a PPP ( the Paycheck Protection Program) It caused a lot of headaches in terms of getting ingredients He noted the family was fortunate in that they own the building that the store is housed in trustworthy and ethical employees has also been a challenge Normally the store has 13 employees but is now down to 11 “Finding employees is not the same as in the past,” Calvin said Given pandemic restrictions the store had to do away with Calvin’s beloved hot dog machine and the coffee bar Hot dogs aside and the homemade buns not-withstanding the store was typically busy one Thursday morning “My mother is visiting and wanted cream puffs They are the best bakery on the island,” she said “We’re here for every celebratory event every occasion,” said Princess Kinoris though on this day she and a friend were picking up pastries for a funeral Calvin has had some health issues but still works and contributes The couple have three daughters and a succession plan in mind “We had a strategic meeting and we want to carry on,” said Calvin one thing is sure: Five days a week they will line up early visitors and locals alike; the doors will open promptly at 7 a.m.; the smell of fresh baked goods wafting in the air–a living piece of Maui history Elizabeth “Betsy” Knight and Ann Wallner were honored by the Friends of the Library of Hawaiʻi for exceptional service in the Hawaiʻi State Public Library System Awards were put on hold for three years because of the COVID-19 pandemic the awards committee decided to give out three awards each for Public Librarian of the Year and Excellence in Service received one of three Public Librarian of the Year Awards She was recognized for her dedication to children’s literacy and development Knight had been nominated for the award in 2017 and 2018 She began as a library technician before obtaining a library degree opting to specialize in youth services due to her passion for teaching Knight believes in the unique value of print media and partners with educators to foster children’s growth within the library’s supportive environment She is deeply involved in community initiatives and her popular Storytime sessions pack the library with up to 100 attendees she champions the crucial role of libraries in protecting free speech She enjoys assisting patrons with technology and advocates for expanded services such as additional classes and resources Wallner sees libraries not just as book repositories but as community hubs that should enhance their offerings and accessibility to uphold their importance in society The awards program is sponsored by Native Books Nā Mea Hawaiʻi The awards recognition program was held Feb 28 at the Hawaiʻi State Library in Honolulu Sylvia Luke congratulated awardees who were honored with special recognition certificates from state legislators members of Congress and the Governor’s Office Each awardee received a personalized cash award a Makana Akamai donation in their honor to purchase books for their respective libraries and a copy of “Hawaiʻi’s Story by Hawaiʻi’s Queen,” along with a gift card from Native Books Nā Mea Hawaiʻi The Makawao Rodeo Parade returned in full flair on Saturday after a three-year hiatus due to the pandemic Spectators were greeted in true paniolo style with mounted and walking units and Duane Hamamura was the event’s Special Honoree this year Event organizers released a list of awards presented to various groups for outstanding entries Ana Peterson extended a special thanks to volunteer announcers: Sista Val from KPOA 93.5 FM The Makawao Stampede Rodeo and other festivities continue from June 30 to July 2 Events include a Makawao Stampede Bull Bash on June 30 at the Oskie Rice Arena.  Details and updates are available on the Makawao2023 Instagram account Maui Public Art Corps is introducing Little Free Art Galleries in Makawao as a way to foster community through art.  The project is in partnership with Hale Hōʻikeʻike at the Bailey House/ Maui Historical Society and Maui County The galleries serve as miniature art hubs where artists of all ages and skill levels are invited to contribute their creations “The concept is simple yet powerful – leave a piece of artwork take a piece of artwork,” according to an announcement “It’s a delightful exchange that encourages artistic expression and community engagement.” Kelly McHugh-White, chair of Maui Public Art Corps and manager of the Maui County’s public art program, explained: “The idea came about while designing community engagement activities surrounding our very first public art project for Makawao Town which is a large-scale sculpture that will live on the front lawn of the Makawao Public Library for 90 days beginning mid-April.” The project is being developed and created by sculptor Matthias Neumann The sculpture is inspired by the story of Scott Fisher director of ʻĀina Stewardship at Hawai’i Land Trust and Kim Thayer of Mauna Kahālāwai Watershed Partnership They are alumni of Seabury Hall in Makawao “We put a call out for help building these tiny galleries and Seabury Hall’s Bill Levien graciously came forward,” McHugh-White said “With the help of 17 engineering students – who built the Little Free Art Galleries we are now able to engage Makawao artists as we prepare for Matthias’ arrival and well beyond the lifespan of the sculpture installation through the exchange of tiny pieces of donated artworks.”  Artists can submit their artwork either in person or by mail making it accessible to all members of the community Levien and McHugh-White set up the very first Little Free Art Gallery at 3620 Baldwin Ave They instantly drew a crowd of excited art enthusiasts Currently stocked with donated works from UH Maui College Visual Arts Department’s Michael Takemoto and students the tiny gallery will be restocked throughout the next month until it becomes self-sustaining The next Little Free Art Gallery will be unveiled at Makawao Public Library to prepare for the unveiling of the temporary sculpture installation on April 20 followed by a third Little Free Art Gallery in Wailuku Town.  Participants are kindly reminded to adhere to the ethos of the Little Free Art Galleries – only take artwork if you’ve left something behind This ensures a sustainable and equitable exchange of artistic expression For more information on how to participate or to locate the nearest gallery, visit the Maui Public Art Corps website here in partnership with the County of Maui and Hale Hō‘ike‘ike at the Bailey House/ Maui Historical Society is announcing a new public art project in development for the town of Makawao The result of a collaborative call-for-artist-proposals that challenged candidates to interpret stories from its Hui Mo‘olelo program as works of visual sculptor Matthias Neumann has been selected to create a piece fronting the Makawao Public Library Selected by a community panel with criteria focused on community engagement and relevance to the artist’s chosen Hui Mo‘olelo recording Neumann’s project is inspired by a story shared by Kim Thayer of Mauna Kahālāwai Watershed Partnership and Scott Fisher Director of ʻĀina Stewardship at Hawai’i Land Trust Kim Thayer participated in the collective’s Hui Mo‘olelo program—a three-part sense-of-place-focused storytelling workshop led by Leilehua Yuen of Hilo during the SMALL TOWN * BIG ART pilot for Wailuku Thayer applied what was learned to capture an audio recorded story with  Scott Fisher “I was born when my parents were living at Sunny Side plantation camp which is in the area of Makawao-Hāliʻimaile I grew up playing soccer at Eddie Tam field and spending a lot of time there—especially when going to school at Seabury My brotherʻs first job was at Makawao Steak House When I moved home in 2003 we were living in Makawao Ranch Acres and my daughter was born in that house – a true kamaʻāina of Makawao Perhaps what I have always appreciated most about Makawao is that it is the ‘gate of the forest’ (lit so it is a transition between the wao kanaka and the wao akua.”  played soccer at Eddie Tam and spent all of my formative years at Seabury from sixth grade on up My brother picked up Komoda butter rolls practically every day (except Wednesdays) throughout his high school career and (my husband) and I got our chocolate Chantilly wedding cake from them My grandpa was a devoted member of the Makawao Hongwanji All generations of his side of our family are housed in the Nokutsudo (columbarium) there from my great-great grandparents to my little brother We’ve been going to the bon dance there every year forever I took my driving test at the Makawao DMV.” The artist’s proposal included a mockup of a woven 11-foot by 8-foot sculpture its pattern designed as an expression of the interconnectedness exhibited in the relationship between Thayer and Fisher that unfolded throughout the 80-minute Hui Mo‘olelo recording Maui Public Art Corps approached the Makawao Public Library as the ideal place for the work – amidst the site’s striking jacaranda trees Branch Manager Dakota Cotton was thrilled by the idea as the installation also aligns with the library’s 55th anniversary “I see this art installation in coordination with our 55th anniversary as a great opportunity to highlight how integral the Makawao Library is to the Maui community and that our local Maui staff is very dedicated to serving local people as best they can,” said Cotton We hope to continue to be a gathering place for learning and creativity for many years to come.” To track the progress of this public artwork and to learn how to get involved, visit mauipublicart.org/makawao Maui Public Art Corps is currently seeking local businesses to host “Little Free Art Galleries” at their sites where Makawao artists and visitors can “give a local artwork take a local artwork.” Two community events are also currently being planned: An artist meet & greet at Hui Noʻeau at 5:30 p.m on April 19 and a public unveiling and panel discussion featuring the artist and storytellers Kim Thayer and Scott Fisher at the Makawao Public Library at 10:30 a.m Maui has every kind of shop you can imagine And we suggest the latter to find unique gifts and souvenirs Here are three shops we’ve recently discovered—and you should Inside the Monarch Collective.Photo: Aaron K From ceramic plant pots and puka shell earrings crafted on Maui to silk dresses hand dyed on Kaua‘i, at The Monarch Collective shoppers can find an eclectic mix of goods by the Islands’ emerging artists. The bright shop in Makawao town evokes a soft and feminine aesthetic, celebrating handmade pieces and small-batch work.   3682 Baldwin Ave., Makawao, monarchcollectivemaui.com  Looking around at well-curated consignment shop LoveUp Boutique is like browsing through your most stylish friend’s closet Shoppers can find this hidden gem perched above Cafe Des Amis on Baldwin Avenue in Pā‘ia you’ll find a budget-friendly selection of chic coastal clothing labels and popular local bikini brands This story was originally published in our Winter 2024 issue. Buy a copy here As part of this year’s Memorial Day Ceremony Blue Hawaiian Helicopters released fragrant flowers over veterans’ graves at Makawao Veterans Cemetery during a flower drop tribute Attendees included Maui County Veterans and their families The program started with a presentation of flowers for monuments followed by a shower of petals from the helicopter The Memorial Day observance in Makawao was presented by the Maui County Veterans Council From exploring the wonders of Kula Botanical Garden to savoring fresh produce at O‘o Farm your road trip through Upcountry will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the island’s interior The Makawao Rodeo Parade is back after a three-year hiatus due to the pandemic The parade features mounted and walking units and the 2023 Parade Grand Marshal is Donna Otsuka The popular stick horse races for kids start at 8 a.m Spectator parking is available at the Oskie Rice Event Center for a $5 donation (cash only) A free shuttle is available from Oskie Rice to three shuttle stops in town: Ai Street; Minor Place/Palolo Place; and Manila Street/Ulele Street gates to the Oskie Rice Event Center open at 10 a.m with a live Country Concert starting at 1 p.m Guests are invited to bring lawn chairs and blankets The event features: Melveen Leed; Above Snakes Country; Paʻani Los; Tj & the Plantation Kids; and a surprise featured headliner The master of ceremonies will be rodeo entertainer Lil’ Guy Tickets are required for entry. Event concert tickets are available here Events include a Makawao Stampede Bull Bash on June 30 at the Oskie Rice Arena Details and updates are available on the Makawao2023 Instagram account