State activates wildfire response program

June 5, 2026

Gov. Josh Green has signed an emergency proclamation authorizing the Hawaii National Guard to activate Operation Hoʻopauahi, a statewide wildfire response program running through Nov. 30. The initiative keeps three military helicopters ready to assist county and state firefighters with aerial firefighting missions. A CH-47F Chinook and an HH-60 Blackhawk will be stationed on Oahu, while a second Blackhawk will be based in Hilo. The proclamation also allows the National Guard to quickly provide evacuation, traffic control and security support during emergencies. Last year, ...

Joshua Walker named Rainbow Wahine volleyball coach

June 5, 2026

The University of Hawaii has named former Rainbow Warrior All-American Joshua Walker as the new head coach of the Rainbow Wahine volleyball program. Athletics Director Matt Elliott introduced the program’s new coach Friday. Walker becomes the fourth head coach in program history and ...

Maui Matsuri names recipients of 2026 Business Award

June 5, 2026

NAPA–United Auto Parts and Restaurant Matsu were named as this year’s Business Award recipients at the 24th annual Maui Matsuri festival. The companies were recognized for their long-standing service to the community during the May 23 festival at the University of Hawaii Maui College ...

Lawsuit challenges Hawaii homestead leases limited to those with 50% Hawaiian blood

June 4, 2026

HONOLULU — A lawsuit filed this week in U.S. court in Honolulu challenges a century-old system that provides one of the most valuable benefits for Native Hawaiians: land at almost no cost. The lawsuit says the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act, which sets aside land for those who have at least ...

Ukumehame Firing Range set to reopen Friday

June 4, 2026

The Ukumehame Firing Range is expected to reopen Friday after repairs were made to storm-damaged berms and surrounding areas, according to the County of Maui Department of Parks and Recreation. The firing range was closed after the facility was inundated by floodwater from two kona low ...

Aloha Volleyball Association wins back-to-back championships

June 4, 2026

After three consecutive days of competition at the Hawaii Convention Center, Maui's Aloha Volleyball Association won the 14-and-under boys title at the Aloha Summer Classic, repeating as champions and securing a berth to the USA Volleyball Nationals in Orlando this July. Coached by Hanalei ...