Advocating for Hawai‘i in the media

Media & Press

Honolulu Civil Beat (2026)

Highlights Manu Powers’ leadership in protecting Huliheʻe Palace from severe coastal storms, demonstrating hands-on stewardship of Hawaiʻi’s cultural resources and the urgent need for climate-resilient preservation. “How to Save a Royal Palace from a Punishing Storm.” March 13.
https://www.civilbeat.org/2026/03/kirstin-downey-how-to-save-a-royal-palace-from-a-punishing-storm/

Aloha Authentic Episode 302 (2004)

Features Manu Powers, President of the Daughters of Hawaiʻi, discussing the organization’s origins, the significance of the historic sites it stewards, and the ongoing challenges of protecting Hawaiʻi’s cultural heritage for future generations. “Daughters of Hawaiʻi: Preserving Hawaiʻi’s Historic Treasures.”‍ ‍https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X_c7QOjlDf8

Marketplace / NPR (2023)

Explores ongoing uncertainty for a Hawai‘i small business, highlighting the need for county policies that stabilize local economies and support small business resilience. “Business Is Still Unpredictable for This Hawai‘i Boat Tour Owner.” August 4.
https://www.marketplace.org/2023/08/04/business-is-still-unpredictable-for-this-hawaii-boat-tour-owner/.

Marketplace / NPR (2022)
Details how inflation and staffing shortages impact tourism operators, reinforcing the importance of workforce development and sustainable economic planning in county leadership.“Despite Travel Rebound, Inflation and Staffing Continue to Limit This Hawaiian Tourism Business.” August 1.
https://www.marketplace.org/2022/08/01/despite-travel-rebound-inflation-and-staffing-continue-to-limit-this-hawaiian-tourism-business/.

West Hawaii Today (2022)
Reports on tsunami impacts in West Hawai‘i, pointing to the critical role of county preparedness, infrastructure, and emergency response systems. “It Could Have Been Worse: Tsunami Triggered by Volcanic Eruption in Tonga Causes Minor Damage in West Hawai‘i.” January 15.
https://www.westhawaiitoday.com/2022/01/15/hawaii-news/it-could-have-been-worse-tsunami-triggered-by-volcanic-eruption-in-tonga-causes-minor-damage-in-west-hawaii/

Hawaii Tribune-Herald (2022)
Covers the return of the King Kamehameha Day Parade, emphasizing the importance of supporting cultural traditions and community events through local government. “King Kamehameha Day Parade Returns to Kona.” March 11.
https://www.hawaiitribune-herald.com/2022/03/11/hawaii-news/king-kamehameha-day-parade-returns-to-kona/.

Hawai‘i Public Radio (2022)
Examines efforts to protect Hulihe‘e Palace from coastal damage, underscoring the need for proactive climate resilience and safeguarding Hawai‘i’s historic sites at the county level. “The Conversation: Assessing Damage After Historic South Shore Swell, Saving Hulihe‘e Palace from Strong Surf.” July 19.
https://www.hawaiipublicradio.org/show/the-conversation/2022-07-19/the-conversation-assessing-damage-after-historic-south-shore-swell-saving-hulihee-palace-from-strong-surf.

Big Island Now (2022)
Highlights community-led stewardship to protect Kona’s historic banyan tree, reflecting a commitment to preserving cultural and environmental resources—core to responsible county leadership. “Our Kuleana: Daughters of Hawai‘i Working to Ensure Royal Banyan Tree Continues to Watch Over Kona.” August 4.
https://bigislandnow.com/2022/08/04/our-kuleana-daughters-of-hawaii-working-to-ensure-royal-banyan-tree-continues-to-watch-over-kona/.

Marketplace / NPR (2021)
Analyzes the effects of COVID-19 on Hawai‘i’s tourism industry, illustrating the need for adaptable, locally grounded decision-making during crises.“What Could the Delta Variant Mean for Hawai‘i’s Tourism Industry?” August 18.
https://www.marketplace.org/2021/08/18/what-could-the-delta-variant-mean-for-hawaiis-tourism-industry/.