Co-Evolving with New Media

Local public television offers a unique window into the life and culture of a community. But in an age of social media and streaming services, it can be difficult for a small local station to compete.

Hōʻike Kauaʻi Community Media was established in 1993 to give the community of Kauaʻi a voice on public, educational and governmental channels. Hōʻike means “to show or perform.” The nonprofit’s mission is to promote and provide free access to media creation and broadcasting, ensuring all residents have an opportunity to share their stories.

Recognizing many people no longer subscribe to cable or watch live TV, Hōʻike is reaching new audiences through YouTube and podcasting. By making programs available online, Hōʻike ensures Kauaʻi residents and beyond can access local content on their preferred platforms.

This evolution is visible in Hōʻike’s rebranding and new logo.

“It’s a fusion of a wave and a camera shutter, symbolizing Kaua‘i’s natural beauty and the power of storytelling,” President and CEO Allegra Gaines says. “The camera shutter represents the vigilant eye of our community, capturing every moment and story. The wave signifies the continuous flow of information and the ever-changing landscape of storytelling, connecting us through our shared experiences and traditions.”

Made on Kauaʻi

Hōʻike allows residents to produce and air their own shows, giving them a public platform to share stories, promote causes and celebrate local culture. It fosters free speech, creativity and engagement, providing a sense of belonging and community connection that large, commercial networks can’t offer. News and Events Producer Tricia Allen says she enjoys meeting people and hearing their stories. “Their perspectives add a beautiful shimmer to my life personally and even more flair to my work, professionally,” she says. Hōʻike offers a variety of programs and services that empower the Kauaʻi commtunity to create and share their own media while also producing original content to keep residents informed:

• Training and certification: Hōʻike offers classes in video production, editing and media creation, allowing residents to become certified to use its equipment and facilities. The cost is $40 for adults and free for students.
• Equipment rental and facilities: Hōʻike provides highquality cameras, editing suites and studio space for local creators to use, giving them the tools they need to produce professional content. Rentals are free for certified producers.
• Program submission and broadcasting: Community members can submit their own shows or films to be aired on Hōʻike’s public access channels, ensuring diverse local content.

Seeking Supporters

Hōʻike’s funding primarily comes from PEG access fees, which are fees collected by cable companies and allocated to public access channels like Hōʻike. These fees are essential for maintaining operations and supporting the community programming that Hōʻike offers.

However, like many non-profits, Hōʻike is always looking to diversify its funding sources through underwriters and donors. Contributions help keep vital community programming on the air, and in return, supporters can be acknowledged on programs that align with their mission and audience. For details, visit hoike.org/support

Follow Hōʻike

The Hōʻike Weekly: A weekly news show that highlights important stories and events happening around Kauaʻi.

Kauaʻi Voices: A community interview show that brings forward local perspectives, sharing stories and experiences from people across the island.

Talkinʻ Trash: A show focused on Kauaʻi’s landfill situation and waste management challenges.

Island Alert: A monthly show where we interview first responders to provide important safety and emergency information for the Kauaʻi community.

County Council Weekly Update: This show condenses the hours-long County Council meetings into a 5-minute summary, making local government more accessible to everyone.

Instagram: @hoike.tv
Facebook: @hoike.tv.kauai
YouTube: @hoikekctv
Podcast: Hōʻike Podcast Studio
Website: hoike.org