Maui Food Bank CEO Lisa Paulson will step down April 15 to pursue national advocacy work. She led the organization since August 2024 during a period of 65% increased food insecurity.

• CEO Lisa Paulson leaves April 15 after leading the food bank since August 2024.
• Her tenure coincided with a 65% surge in food insecurity across Maui County.
• Paulson previously served as executive director of Maui's Hotel and Lodging Association.
• The board will search for a replacement while current leadership maintains operations.
• Food bank serves as vital community resource supporting families across the county.

Source: Maui News

A travel article highlights Big Island's Kua Bay as a $10 alternative to Maui's expensive resort beaches like Ka'anapali, where visitors pay $40-250 in daily resort fees.

• Ka'anapali Beach attracts over 2 million visitors annually with resort fees of $40-250 per night plus parking costs of $30-50.
• Big Island's Kua Bay charges only $10 for parking and sees fewer than 300 people on winter weekdays.
• The article positions Kua Bay as offering similar white sand and turquoise water without the crowds and high costs.
• Ka'anapali averages 6,000 daily visitors during winter months across its three-mile hotel corridor.
• The comparison highlights cost differences that could influence visitor destination choices.

Source: Journee Mondiale

Mayor Bissen will deliver his 2026 State of the County Address on March 5, focusing on wildfire recovery, housing solutions, and economic development including visitor industry balance.

• The address will highlight progress on housing, recovery, and economic stability while outlining future community strengthening actions.
• Key priorities include advancing local housing solutions and continuing wildfire recovery efforts focused on housing stability and infrastructure.
• Economic development plans will emphasize supporting local businesses and maintaining a balanced visitor industry.
• The event is free and will be broadcast live on multiple platforms including County social media and local television.
• Cultural and natural resource protection through sustainable stewardship will be addressed as a county priority.

Source: Maui County

Hawaii teachers union proposes closing a tax 'loophole' on car rental companies to help fund $200M in pandemic hazard pay, as the state considers nearly $904M total in COVID-related payments to public employees.

• Teachers union suggests imposing retail tax on car rental company wholesale vehicle purchases to fund $200M in pandemic pay.
• Governor Green requests another $100M for public employee hazard pay, adding to $604M already appropriated in previous years.
• Total pandemic-related payments to public workers could reach $904M across multiple union settlements.
• 92-year-old architect sentenced to probation for attempting $20 bribe to city permit reviewer.
• Leasehold condo project at Ward/Kapiolani faces challenges with affordability and marketability concerns.

Source: Hawaii Free Press

The popular Whale Tales educational festival launches today at The Ritz Carlton Maui Kapalua, offering visitors and locals marine life programs during peak humpback whale season.

• Festival coincides with prime humpback whale viewing season in Maui waters
• Educational programs and activities available for families and marine life enthusiasts
• Event takes place at The Ritz Carlton Maui Kapalua resort in West Maui
• Annual festival provides learning opportunities about Hawaii's marine ecosystem
• Perfect timing for visitors looking to combine luxury accommodations with wildlife education

Source: Maui News

The Hyatt Regency Maui has teamed up with Ohana Pickleball Club to create a top-tier pickleball facility in Ka'anapali, adding another recreational amenity to West Maui's tourism offerings.

• Ka'anapali resort area expands its recreational activities with dedicated pickleball courts and programming
• Partnership brings professional-grade facilities and instruction to both resort guests and local pickleball enthusiasts
• New venue could attract pickleball tournaments and events, boosting tourism activity in West Maui
• Facility represents growing trend of resorts adding specialized sports amenities to enhance guest experiences
• Location provides convenient access for both visitors staying in Ka'anapali and residents from nearby communities

Source: Maui Now

The Fairmont Kea Lani resort is organizing a special cultural event named Hookumu to honor Mahina ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi (Hawaiian Language Month). This celebration will offer guests and locals opportunities to engage with authentic Hawaiian language and cultural practices.

• The resort's Hookumu event celebrates Mahina ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi, demonstrating commitment to preserving Hawaiian culture and language
• Visitors staying in Maui can participate in authentic cultural programming at one of the island's premier resorts
• The celebration provides educational opportunities for both tourists and residents to learn about Hawaiian language traditions
• This event reflects the growing trend of Maui hotels incorporating meaningful cultural experiences into their guest offerings
• February timing aligns with Hawaiian Language Month, making it an ideal time for visitors to experience local culture

Source: Maui Now

The 33rd Annual Na Poe Paahana Awards recently celebrated Hawaii's dedicated hospitality workers who make the island experience exceptional for visitors. This long-running tradition highlights the people behind Maui's world-class tourism industry.

• The Na Poe Paahana Awards has been recognizing Hawaii's hospitality workforce for over three decades, showcasing the commitment to excellence in tourism
• Local hospitality workers across various sectors were celebrated for their dedication to providing authentic Hawaiian experiences
• The awards ceremony emphasizes the vital role that hospitality professionals play in maintaining Maui's reputation as a premier destination
• Recognition of these workers highlights the human element that makes staying on Maui special, from hotel staff to tour guides and restaurant workers
• The event demonstrates the island's commitment to honoring those who help create memorable experiences for the millions of visitors who choose Maui each year

Source: Maui Now

Maui's hotel and lodging associations are organizing a charity walk event on May 9, 2026, bringing together the hospitality community to support local causes.

• Major hotel and lodging associations across Maui County are collaborating on a charitable fundraising walk
• The event is scheduled for May 9, 2026, providing an opportunity for both visitors and residents to participate in community giving
• This initiative demonstrates the hospitality industry's commitment to supporting local Maui charities and community organizations
• The walk represents a unique chance for tourists to engage with Maui's local community beyond traditional vacation activities
• Proceeds from the event will benefit Maui County charitable organizations, strengthening community support systems

Source: Maui Now

Maui Mall Village will celebrate Chinese New Year on February 21st with cultural festivities perfect for locals and visitors looking to experience traditional celebrations on the island.

• Free cultural event taking place at Maui Mall Village on Friday, February 21st
• Features traditional lion dance performances, authentic food vendors, and cultural displays
• Family-friendly activities including lantern making and calligraphy demonstrations
• Local businesses and cultural organizations participating to showcase Asian heritage on Maui
• Convenient location with ample parking makes it accessible for vacation rental guests exploring the area

Source: Maui Now