hula is healing
Craig DeSilvaMiss Aloha Hula Jaedyn Pavao feels grateful and honored to be part of a Hawaiian tradition that has been passed down to her through generations. The public health nurse from Kauai talks about continuing a legacy from the late kumu hula Leinaala Jardin, who passed away last year.
Eat Well
from picky eater to plate completer
If your keiki is a picky eater, you understand the challenge of making sure they’re getting enough vitamins and nutrients from their food. After we wrote about dealing with picky eaters for the upcoming winter 2026 issue of Island Scene, we asked our readers to share some strategies that worked for their selective eaters. Check out their tips and get advice from HMSA manager of Condition Care Programs and a registered dietitian, August Espinal.
Upcoming Events
Don't miss out on these events that are heading your way!
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Saturday, January 31, 2026
8:00 AM-9:00 AM
Waipahu,
Oahu
Friday, February 6, 2026
11:00 AM-10:00 PM
Honolulu,
Oahu
Saturday, February 7, 2026
8:00 AM-9:00 AM
Waipahu,
Oahu
From the Magazine
Take a look at some of the stories that made their way into the spotlight in this season's issue.
Miss Aloha Hula Jaedyn Pavao feels grateful and honored to be part of a Hawaiian tradition that has been passed down to her through generations. The public health nurse from Kauai talks about continuing a legacy from the late kumu hula Leinaala Jardin, who passed away last year.
From coaching a championship basketball team to bringing a Broadway musical to life to saving lives in the operating room, Mark M. Mugiishi, M.D., F.A.C.S., has done it all! In 2020, Dr. Mugiishi became the president and CEO of HMSA, and continues in his role as CEO today. Learn more about his vision for the future as he works towards his goal of helping to improve the health of Hawaii.
partnering for hawaii’s health care future
Across Hawaii, families are dealing with the pressure of our rising cost of living and growing concerns about access to quality health care. As the state’s most experienced health plan, HMSA recognizes our responsibility to lead with purpose and innovation. HMSA and Hawaii Pacific Health (HPH) are joining forces to meet the challenge. Learn about One Health Hawaii, a new not-for-profit entity, designed to make health care more affordable, improve the consumer experience, and expand access to care for communities statewide, all while realizing long-term financial sustainability.
hmsa’s first woman president: a trailblazer with visionary leadership
Jenny Smith makes history as HMSA's first woman president, overseeing health plan strategy and operations. Learn more about Smith, her experience, and vision for the future.
saving lives one blood donation at a time
As the state’s sole blood supplier for all 18 local hospitals, Blood Bank of Hawaii has a big job to meet the needs of patients of all ages. But the nonprofit can’t do it without your help. Find out more about blood donation, how it saves lives, and how you can get involved.