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Kimberly Agas promoted to new leadership role at Aulani
Agas, who has been general manager of the Disney resort in Ko Olina for the past decade, is now executive director, a newly created position.
Stephanie SalmonsMay 28, 2026
Volunteer at fire restoration nursery in Kula this Friday
The Rotary Club of Upcountry Maui is hosting a community volunteer service day from 9 a.m. to noon on Friday, May 29, at the Kula Community Watershed Alliance’s Community Restoration Nursery. Participants will plant and propagate Native Hawaiian species, which are helping to restore the Kula burn area from the August 2023 wildfires.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 28, 2026
Lytvynchuk pleads 'not guilty' in monk seal case
Igor Lytvynchuk will be barred from O‘ahu beaches as his court case over an alleged attack on a Hawaiian monk seal continues.
Michael BrestovanskyMay 28, 2026
Hilton Grand Vacations, Honolulu Habitat work to finish Waimānalo home
Mitch Yokoyama, general manager of Hokulani Waikīkī, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club, reflects on the rewards of volunteering with HGV Serves, a corporate social responsibility program with several community partners, including Habitat for Humanity International. Yokoyama and colleagues recently joined Honolulu Habitat on a home build project in Waimānalo. Aloha State Daily also checked-in with two Honolulu Habitat employees — Shana and Feta Petelo, the mother-daughter team that work directly with local families and volunteers.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 28, 2026
Hawaiʻi Food and Wine Festival announces line-up
The festival features renowned chefs across three Islands this year. Learn about the 11 events the festival announced on Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi Island and Maui.
Katie HellandMay 27, 2026
Hamada: Road rage justice served
Hawai‘i has a reputation for being soft on crime but recently, victims of a multi-state road rager in California held a press conference to thank Hawai‘i for serving a tougher sentence on him than their own state had. Now, can we do something about the road ragers still among us?
Rick HamadaMay 27, 2026
Everest Grill offers Indian and Nepali cuisine in Windward Oʻahu
The eatery, located in the former space of Kogi Aina in Kāneʻohe, opened earlier this year. Customers can enjoy a variety of popular Indian dishes, ranging from chicken momo and vegetable samosas to biryani and tandoor specialties.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 27, 2026
The Sweet Stand is a new bake stand in Kapolei
Business owner Ivy-Ann Fernandez, who originally opened home café Midori Matcha last year, decided to pivot and start a walk-up bake stand. Customers can enjoy a rotating selection of baked goods — ranging from cinnamon rolls and banana bread loaves to focaccia bread — and look forward to matcha and coffee bottled lattes in the future.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 27, 2026
The news according to OHA
The Office of Hawaiian Affairs has shown an interest in purchasing a television station. ASD opinion columnist Sterling Higa thinks this might not do for OHA what the agency would like in terms of controlling the message.
Sterling HigaMay 27, 2026
Ghosts Run This Gulch
From ancient battles to modern car crashes, a lot has happened around Roosevelt Bridge, where Kamehameha Highway crosses over Kīpapa Gulch. Is it any wonder it has a reputation for hauntings?
Lopaka Kapanui and Tanya KapanuiMay 27, 2026
CONGRESS WATCH: Firework laundering
Hawai‘i lawmakers introduce bill making fireworks trafficking prosecutable under money laundering laws.
Michael BrestovanskyMay 27, 2026
Luna’s Tex-Mex Cantina is open in Ward Village
The restaurant opened about a week ago and is still in its soft opening phase. Customers can expect dishes like ceviche, housemade tortilla chips and guac, elotes, steak and chicken fajitas, and Baja fish tacos. The eatery is planning to extend its hours to include lunch service.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 27, 2026
West O‘ahu redevelopment breaks ground
A blessing ceremony was held Thursday for the redevelopment of the former Paradise Cove Lū‘au site near Ko Olina.
Stephanie SalmonsMay 27, 2026
Laughs, science and more: What to do on Oʻahu this weekend
Already dreaming of the weekend after three days off? Aloha State Daily can help you make plans for Friday, May 29, through Sunday, May 31. From a women in rap party in Waikīkī to stand-up comedy in Kapolei, there are lots of events happening this weekend on Oʻahu.
Katie HellandMay 27, 2026
Community Voices: A good lesson in curtailing government growth
Kudos to Councilmember Val Okimoto and the Honolulu Budget Committee, which made the fiscally responsible decision this week to ax most of the funding for the city’s Office of Economic Recovery.
Keliʻi AkinaMay 26, 2026
New rodeo highlights Hawaiian cowboy heritage on Hawaiʻi Island
“Paniolo Legends Under the Lights” is produced by third-generation paniolo Aki Smith, owner of Paniolo Culture Co. Presented in partnership with 1832 Hawaiʻi Living Co. and Waikōloa Stables, the evening includes rodeo events in the historic arena, a meal from Chef Nakoa Pabre of Umekes, live music and time to talk story with cowboys.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 26, 2026
Chart House Waikīkī has a new late-night menu
The eatery’s new late-night menu is served nightly from 9 to 10:30 p.m. at the bar for dine-in only. Customers can enjoy plate lunch-style entrees like Hawaiian chopped steak and boneless prime barbecue short ribs.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 26, 2026
Pālolo proud: Jayden Maiava doesn't shy away from his roots along football journey
Maiava, the first Polynesian quarterback to start for USC, took some time back home before the most consequential season of his young football career
Christian ShimabukuMay 26, 2026
The Surfing Pig has a hidden speakeasy
The Kaimukī eatery is also home to an “if you know, you know” speakeasy, which opened last fall. Customers must call the restaurant to make reservations for the speakeasy.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 26, 2026
HHSAA reveals Hall of Honor Class of 2026
Twelve student athletes will each receive a $2,000 scholarship. Honorees come from public and private high schools and represent a wide range of sports, from swimming to football.
Christian ShimabukuMay 25, 2026
Community Voices: The people who will save Hawai‘i
Katie Chang, executive director of Center for Tomorrow's Leaders, talks about why she's bullish on Hawai‘i's future. She sees a thousand reasons each year — the number of student leaders in CTL's programs who are going to fight for their Hawai‘i.
Katie ChangMay 25, 2026
Community Voices: From resistance to regeneration at Waipā
Waipā’s efforts have expanded beyond growing food. They are also raising future farmers and community advocates. The valley serves as an outdoor classroom, providing educational programs for schools, families and community members.
Philamer FelicitasMay 25, 2026
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue continues Mainland expansion
The Hawai‘i-based restaurant chain has recently opened new locations in Washington and California.
Stephanie SalmonsMay 25, 2026
Community Voices: Changes to the solar credit
SB3125 proposes a few significant changes to the credit, making the solar industry unhappy. If the bill is enacted, here's what timelines taxpayers should know.
Tom YamachikaMay 25, 2026
Department of Education gears up for new cell phone policy
All state schools will prohibit phone use by elementary and middle schoolers during school hours, and could do the same for high schoolers.
Michael BrestovanskyMay 25, 2026
Windward Community College professor named Guggenheim Fellow
Kapulani Landgraf, a professor of art at Windward Community College was recently named a Guggenheim Fellow. She spoke with Aloha State Daily recently about her work.
Katie HellandMay 25, 2026
Remembering the Fallen
More than 1,600 men and women from Hawai‘i have died serving their country in wartime. For Memorial Day, we pulled together this guide to online resources where you can find nearly every single name.
A. Kam NapierMay 25, 2026
KCC’s summer culinary cohorts to get cooking
Kapiʻolani Community College’s Culinary Institute of the Pacific, in partnership with Culinary Institute of America, is offering two culinary training programs at no cost for high school students and culinary professionals in June. The deadline to apply is through Friday, May 29.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 23, 2026
Lambert says no to deputy chief role for the time being
Mike Lambert, who will return to HPD later this year, won't be incoming Chief David Lazar's deputy for the foreseeable future, nor will he run again for the top spot, he said Friday.
Michael BrestovanskyMay 23, 2026
Honolulu launches AI training program for O‘ahu businesses, nonprofits
The city's Office of Economic Revitalization, in partnership with Māpunawai and Skilled Tomorrow, is set to launch "AI for Everyone at Work: Training Trainers to Teach Across Generations." The program aims to help organizations on the island introduce artificial intelligence "in practical, responsible and accessible ways for a multigenerational workforce."
Stephanie SalmonsMay 23, 2026
Hamada: How corrupt is Hawai‘i?
Most public servants get through the day doing absolutely nothing wrong. But as ASD opinion columnist Rick Hamada observes, there have been more than enough high-profile cases of corruption to justify the perception that Hawai‘i can be pretty rotten.
Rick HamadaMay 23, 2026
Flowers, volunteers needed ahead of Memorial Day
Girl Scouts Hawaiʻi is collecting flowers and ti leaves for lei to honor the more than 10,000 service members at the Hawaiʻi State Veteran’s Cemetery in Kāneʻohe. On Saturday, May 23, members of the public are invited to join them in creating lei.
Katie HellandMay 23, 2026
Darren Matsuda out as Punahou boys basketball coach
The Buffanblu won three HHSAA titles under Matsuda.
Christian ShimabukuMay 23, 2026
This Italian eatery has a new ‘land and sea’ themed menu
Botanico Waikīkī, which opened last fall, recently launched a new dinner menu. It highlights premium ingredients from the earth and ocean. Customers can enjoy dishes ranging from an anchovy and mentaiko potato salad and crab cream linguine to a crispy swordfish cutlet.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 22, 2026
Kumu Earl Kawaʻa, haumana recognized for Board and Stone
Born and raised on Molokaʻi, Kawaʻa has offered Board and Stone to ʻohana across the Islands since 2010. The cultural classes teach families how to carve a wooden board (papa kuʻi ʻai) and shape a stone poi pounder (pōhaku) using only hand tools, while perpetuating Hawaiian traditions, language, moʻolelo and more. Last month, the Hawaiʻi House of Representatives honored him and his team for their dedication to community.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 22, 2026
Aloha Stadium tours to be made available to University of Hawai‘i football recruits
Executive Director Michael Yadao believes it's important for prospective players to be able to take a look at their future home.
Christian ShimabukuMay 22, 2026
NOAA predicts strong hurricane season
An early forecast of this year's hurricane season estimates between five and 13 tropical cyclones in the Eastern and Central Pacific, and Hawai‘i residents are advised to start preparing now.
Michael BrestovanskyMay 22, 2026
Budget Bites: $13 poke bowls at Noods Ramen Bar Hawaiʻi Kai
These poke bowls are only available at the ramen business’s East Oʻahu store. Choose from spicy ‘ahi, hurricane, ginger scallion and spicy garlic crunch.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 22, 2026
The stories underneath
ASD opinion columnist Sterling Higa explores how an extensive story on homelessness by Civil Beat raises issues where both the political left and political right can do better on their approaches to solving the problem.
Sterling HigaMay 22, 2026
Tax cuts saved: Green signs bill to preserve most upcoming tax cuts
Despite previous announcements that future tax cuts would need to be paused, Gov. Josh Green signed on Thursday a measure that preserves most of them.
Michael BrestovanskyMay 22, 2026
Backset drops new single “Up Late”
The ‘Āina Haina-based band Backset is releasing its first single from a six-song extended play this week. Aloha State Daily caught up with Gabriel Goes, who also performed on NBC’s “The Voice,” Hawaiian Council’s “Hawaiʻi to the World,” and more, about his inspiration for the new music and how to listen.
Katie HellandMay 22, 2026
Maui eatery included on 'legendary' best-of list
Only in Your State’s newest 50 Best list looks at 'Legendary Local Restaurants Across the U.S.' A popular Pā‘ia restaurant is included.
Stephanie SalmonsMay 21, 2026
Vintage Books Hawaiʻi relaunches brunch service with new chef
Chef Keith Endo, whose culinary background includes leading the kitchens at Vino and Ki Club, is now the executive chef at this Kaimukī speakeasy. Vintage Books Hawaiʻi re-launched its weekend brunch with a new menu in mid-April.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 21, 2026
Hawai‘i baseball eliminated from Big West Conference tournament
The Rainbow Warriors fell to Cal State Fullerton in Wednesday's tournament play-in game, ending their tenure in the Big West.
Christian ShimabukuMay 21, 2026
Dave Lazar named as next Honolulu Police Chief
Honolulu Police Commission names former San Francisco assistant chief to lead Honolulu Police Department. His start date is up in the air, pending a deeper background investigation and contract negotiations.
Michael BrestovanskyMay 21, 2026
Hawai‘i Pacific University set to add women's flag football program
HPU will be the first college athletics program in the state to add flag football.
Christian ShimabukuMay 21, 2026
Rainbow Drive-In has a new happy hour
The business’s new happy hour menu is at the Kapahulu location only on Mondays to Thursdays. Customers can enjoy $5, $10 and $12 specials, ranging from small Slush floats and chili fries to barbecue burgers and loco moco plates.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 21, 2026
New Korean fusion pop-up in Kaimukī
KoLab, formerly located in Kakaʻako, now offers a Korean-inspired breakfast within Kaimukī’s Aloha Bakehouse & Café. The biz offers fresh poke with crispy waffle rice, egg salad sandos and joomuk bap, or savory Korean rice balls.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 21, 2026
Maui County looks to acquire water assets from Maui Land & Pineapple
The county says this move marks the first phase of a broader effort that aims to also secure other private water systems in Olowalu and Launiupoko.
Stephanie SalmonsMay 21, 2026
Taimane, Los Lobos to headline Maui Music and Food Experience
Music and food are on the menu for the third annual Maui Music and Food Experience, which will host several days of performances in Kāʻanapali in August. The event’s headliners were announced this week. Proceeds of the two-day event will benefit Hua Momona Foundation, which is working to feed the community, help Lahaina rebuild and foster a youth music scene on Maui.
Katie HellandMay 20, 2026
Pipikaula Corner: David Lazar, Kate Steinle and Honolulu’s future
One of the top three candidates for Honolulu Police Chief, David Lazar of San Francisco, has stated his intention to never let HPD cooperate with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. These are the kinds of policies widely believed to have been the reason why Kathryn "Kate" Steinle was killed in 2015 by a five-time deportee, out on the streets of San Francisco because local authorities refused to work with federal agencies on immigration cases.
A. Kam NapierMay 20, 2026
Intermediate Ghosts
If you thought just being in the 7th or 8th grade was scary, imagine if some tragic set of circumstances had you trapped there in the afterlife! Stories abound about the things seen at Robert Louis Stevenson Middle School in Honolulu, long known as an "Intermediate School" in the DOE naming system. Ancient warriors. Headless bodies. A cop on his beat. A mysterious woman in high heels. All these and more.
Lopaka Kapanui and Tanya KapanuiMay 20, 2026
Hawai‘i baseball set for final Big West Conference tournament
The Rainbow Warriors will take on Cal State Fullerton in Wednesday's play-in game.
Christian ShimabukuMay 20, 2026
Hawai‘i Island 'Burning Man' festival given green light
Windward Planning Commission approves application for "Falls On Fire" festival, despite trepidation from neighbors.
Michael BrestovanskyMay 20, 2026
What to do on Oʻahu for Memorial Day weekend
From sewing lei for service members to the Shinnyo Lantern Floating Hawaiʻi, there are lots of events happening on Oʻahu this weekend. Aloha State Daily rounded up some of the ceremonies and activities, so you can make plans.
Katie HellandMay 19, 2026
New frozen Greek yogurt spot in Honolulu
Aloha Greek Waikīkī opened recently on Kūhiō Avenue. The business offers self-serve frozen Greek yogurt with Hawaiʻi-inspired flavors like ube, mango, liliko‘i and pineapple.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 19, 2026
Community Voices: Why is Haleakalā a sacred place?
On Haleakalā, the land from where the forest begins up to the summit is considered a wao akua (realm of gods). The summit itself is called the piko, or highest point, which draws down nourishment that feeds the entire, living, breathing mountain system.
Hina KneubuhlMay 19, 2026
Da Morning Grind Cafe is tucked away within a laundromat
The business’s takeout window is located on South King Street. Open for grab-and-go, the café offers a variety of coffees, teas, dirty sodas and specialty drinks, including a twist on the London Fog latte.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 19, 2026
Top cops: The last Mainland HPD chief?
Dave Lazar, candidate for Honolulu's police chief, promises strong leadership, technological improvements and no deals with ICE.
Michael BrestovanskyMay 19, 2026
Boys and Girls Club of Hawaiʻi’s annual fundraiser kicks off
Since 2017, Great Futures Day has aimed to raise awareness and funds for the nonprofit, which is celebrating 50 years of serving youth in the Islands. Throughout the dubbed the “Week of Aloha,” which runs from May 18 to 22, donors can double their impact thanks to various partners.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 19, 2026
Exhibit on Robert Cazimero extends through next week
A special exhibit honoring the work of legendary musician and Kumu Hula Robert Cazimero has been extended due to popular demand. Catch it at Gallery ‘Iolani at Windward Community College.
Katie HellandMay 19, 2026
Affordable housing development opens in Makiki
Makiki Banyan is the fifth project from Lam Capital developed under the City and County of Honolulu's Bill 7 program.
Stephanie SalmonsMay 19, 2026
Ben Sasse is dying in public
The former U.S. senator from Nebraska is talking about big ideas everywhere he can as pancreatic cancer takes his life. Hawai‘i's politicians could learn from what he has to say about government doing fewer things well, says ASD opinion columnist Sterling Higa.
Sterling HigaMay 19, 2026
Ry’s Poke Shack opens in Honolulu
The Kahuku-based biz opened its second location on Oʻahu this past weekend. The Honolulu location is located in the Ala Moana neighborhood next to Jugo Life, and features specialty collaboration poke flavors.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 19, 2026
Community Voices: Keep following the yellow brick road
A look at more Hawaiʻi tax bills on their way to Gov. Green’s desk.
Tom YamachikaMay 18, 2026
Jarod Hester now oversees Oʻahu’s Polynesian Cultural Center
Earlier this month, Hester succeeded P. Alfred Grace as president and CEO of the cultural attraction in Lāʻie and in his role plans to prioritize people — workforce, guests and community members. Hester, who previously served as PCC's chief operating officer and chief financial officer, is originally from New Zealand and shares what initially drew his family to Hawaiʻi nearly 13 years ago, pleasant surprises in the role so far, and his vision to continue to enhance experiences at PCC.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 18, 2026
Community Voices: More housing reforms for Hawaiʻi
If the governor approves these particular measures, 2026 will go down as yet another year in which the Legislature made significant progress toward resolving Hawaiʻi’s housing crisis.
Keliʻi AkinaMay 18, 2026
This acai bowl shop has a new location in Kāneʻohe
HI Cravings Windward opened a storefront in Kāneʻohe last March. It recently relocated to Windward City Shopping Center earlier this month, and now features extended hours.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 18, 2026
Moanalua wins 2026 HHSAA Division I girls flag football championship
Na Menehune staged a late, dramatic comeback to win its first state title in girls flag football.
Christian ShimabukuMay 17, 2026
Makana Wade coaches Le Jardin to first state title in boys volleyball
Makana Wade, the son of UH men's volleyball head coach Charlie Wade, led the Bulldogs to the HHSAA title in his first season at the helm.
Christian ShimabukuMay 17, 2026
Green signs anti-corporate spending bill
Senate Bill 2471, now Act 11, aims to limit corporate influence on Hawai‘i's elections
Michael BrestovanskyMay 16, 2026
'Groundbreaking' film combines Chile, Hawaiʻi and hula
The short film “Pilina” combines cultural influences from Chile and Hawaiʻi with a common language: dance. Chilean American Filmmaker Carolina Espiro and Mānoa-based Producer Jana Park spoke with Aloha State Daily about the production, which will debut in early 2027.
Katie HellandMay 16, 2026
Top cops: HPD chief candidate Mike Lambert wants to improve officer morale
Department of Law Enforcement director Mike Lambert believes fixing officer retention is the key to improving Honolulu's police
Michael BrestovanskyMay 16, 2026
For sale: Tantalus home made for an architect
The 2,798-square-foot house is located on a 1-acre rim lot at 228 Forest Ridge Way.
Stephanie SalmonsMay 16, 2026
Festa Italiana 2026 is coming this June
The ticketed Passaporto Italiano VIP experience is June 5, while the street festival — which is free to attend — is June 6. The festival highlights a selection of authentic Italian and Italian-American restaurants and chefs from both Italy and Hawaiʻi.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 15, 2026
Hawai‘i men's volleyball standout Kristian Titriyski to turn pro early
Titriyski is forgoing his final two seasons of collegiate eligibility to turn pro in his native Bulgaria.
Christian ShimabukuMay 15, 2026
Hawai‘i men's volleyball makes the rounds following national championship
The Rainbow Warriors and their coaches have made a bevy of public appearances since winning the 2026 national championship match on Monday.
Christian ShimabukuMay 15, 2026
UHERO warns higher prices to come as Iran war continues
UHERO's second quarterly forecast significantly less rosy than the first after Strait of Hormuz closure.
Michael BrestovanskyMay 15, 2026
And the Nā Hōkū Hanohano finalists are…
The Hawaiʻi Academy of Recording Arts has released the list of finalists for its prestigious Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards. Nominees were selected for each of almost 30 categories. Awards include Album of the Year, Song of the Year, Female Vocalist of the Year, Male Vocalist of the Year, and more.
Katie HellandMay 15, 2026
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue aims for record year
April was a record month for the Hawai‘i-based chain which has opened 13 new locations this year, including six in April alone. CEO Elisia Flores says the chain expects to open even more before 2026 ends.
Stephanie SalmonsMay 15, 2026
Mākaha waterman receives lifetime achievement award
Brian Keaulana got his start in the movie industry as a stuntman. Recently, the waterman was a producer for Apple TV’s “Chief of War,” which stars his cousin, Jason Momoa, and Fox’s “Rescue: HI-Surf.” Keaulana reflects on the ocean, plus opportunities for youth to grow into careers in the film industry, where he has worked for more than three decades.
Katie HellandMay 15, 2026
Honolulu to consider landfill alternatives
Honolulu City Council passes resolution forming "End Landfills Task Force"
Michael BrestovanskyMay 15, 2026
'Play with a purpose' at this kids gym in Honolulu
Owner of We Rock the Spectrum Honolulu John Ross shares the intention behind his first venture inspired by his son with autism and the families who are navigating a similar path. He describes it as "a place where every child, neurotypical or not, is genuinely celebrated."
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 15, 2026
Reckoning With George Ariyoshi’s Hawai‘i
ASD political history columnist Perry Arrasmith takes a deep dive into the career, accomplishments and legacy of the late Gov. George Ariyoshi. His last year in office was 1986 but, as Arrasmith explains, the social and political tensions Ariyoshi navigated remain with us to this day.
Perry ArrasmithMay 15, 2026
Magdaleno magnificent again as Hawai‘i clinches Big West tournament berth
Working on short rest, UH's ace tossed his second one-hit shutout of the month, striking out 14 CSUN batters in a 4-0 win on Wednesday night with his family in attendance.
Christian ShimabukuMay 14, 2026
PizzAlba is a new pizza pop-up in Kakaʻako
PizzAlba pops up on Thursdays in the space next to Bevy in Kakaʻako. You can also find the pizza biz at the Kakaʻako and Kailua farmers markets on Saturdays and Sundays, respectively.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 14, 2026
First look at Sonic’s new Oʻahu location
Sonic Kapolei, located at 5001 Kapolei Parkway, is opening May 16. This is the brand’s first drive-in restaurant on the island and Hawaiʻi’s second Sonic location. Customers can look forward to Sonic’s signature burgers, drinks and a Hawaiʻi-exclusive menu item.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 14, 2026
Hawai‘i Realtors Charitable Foundation offering grants to residents affected by March storms
The foundation — the charitable arm of Hawai‘i Realtors — will distribute a total of $200,000 in grants to aid in storm relief.
Stephanie SalmonsMay 14, 2026
Fundraiser for farms surpasses goal
Thanks to you and an anonymous donor, we raised more than $200,000 for the Hawai‘i Farmers Union Foundation's Hawai‘i Flood Response Fund. The GoFundMe page remains open as more donations come in that will help Hawai‘i’s farmers and rural communities devastated by recent Kona Low storms.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 14, 2026
Hamada: Lawmakers saved the tax cuts with a "tax the rich" increase
ASD opinion columnist Rick Hamada assesses the Legislative session and find just one idea reigning in the Big Square Building. Tax the "rich," even when preserving tax cuts. Do they know who the rich really are?
Rick HamadaMay 14, 2026
Man arrested for attack on monk seal
Igor Lytvynchuk, who reportedly said he is "rich enough to pay the fines" from allegedly attacking an endangered Hawaiian monk seal, faces up to $70,000 in fines and potential prison time.
Michael BrestovanskyMay 14, 2026
'Top Gun' and 'Top Gun: Maverick' return to theaters
These Tom Cruise movies are back on the big screen after the original film premiered 40 years ago and “Top Gun: Maverick” hit theaters in 2022. Watch the action movies at Consolidated Theatres in four locations through next week.
Katie HellandMay 14, 2026
H-1 closures planned in June, July
A portion of the freeway will be closed for improvement work, the state Department of Transportation says.
Stephanie SalmonsMay 14, 2026
'Mister ambassador of aloha'
It's a bad look for the word "aloha" when it's used to commend a vigilante beat down, as state Sen. Brenton Awa did last week, says ASD opinion columnist Sterling Higa.
Sterling HigaMay 13, 2026
Kukane Street Stand is a new bake stand in Kāneʻohe
The neighborhood bake stand offers a rotating selection of desserts and specialty lattes. Baked goods are available on a first-come, first-served basis; the bake stand is usually open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 13, 2026
Pipikaula Corner: A conversation about SB2471
ASD Editor in Chief A. Kam Napier appears in this week's episode of Talk Story with Keli‘i Akina, on ThinkTech Hawai‘i, to discuss SB2471. The Legislature almost unanimously passed the bill to overturn the Citizens United decision in Hawai‘i last Friday. It now awaits Gov. Josh Green's signature. Akina has questions — what does this mean for Hawai‘i? Watch it here.
A. Kam NapierMay 13, 2026
Strange Events at the Ke‘elikōlani Building
It's hard to imagine now, but this area of the Capitol District of Honolulu was once waterfront property, where King Kamehameha I and his Royal Court made their home. Now, state government department heads, rather than powerful kahuna, hold sway, but it's possible the old energies linger, causing eerie experiences.
Lopaka Kapanui and Tanya KapanuiMay 13, 2026
Loan program launched for condominium associations
The Condominium Association Loan Program provides direct loans to Associations of Apartment Owners, or AOAOs.
Stephanie SalmonsMay 13, 2026
Hawai‘i baseball enters final Big West series aiming to clinch spot in conference tournament
The Rainbow Warriors need to win one of their three home games against CSUN this week in order to clinch a spot in next week's Big West tournament.
Christian ShimabukuMay 13, 2026
Hawai‘i County to decide whether to allow 'Burning Man'-style festival
"Falls on Fire" festival in Pāpa‘ikou has generated controversy among Big Isle neighbors.
Michael BrestovanskyMay 13, 2026
Hawai‘i men's volleyball welcomed back home by loyal fans
The Rainbow Warriors arrived back on campus after winning their third national championship in six years.
Christian ShimabukuMay 13, 2026
Jack Johnson, farmers markets and more: Your guide to the weekend
Ready to make plans for Friday, Saturday and Sunday on Oʻahu? Whether you are looking for some live music or a farmers market, Aloha State Daily put together this list of ideas, which includes how to round up ingredients for banana pancakes … or listen to Jack Johnson sing about them.
Katie HellandMay 13, 2026
Tanaka Ramen & Izakaya is opening in Windward Mall
The business’s newest location is celebrating its grand opening on Wednesday, May 13. This is Tanaka Ramen & Izakaya’s seventh Hawaiʻi location. Customers can enjoy a discounted ramen offer on May 13, along with specials during the restaurant’s first week of operation.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 13, 2026
Biodynamic farm on Maui seeks support after storms
Lokelani ʻOhana, a Wailuku farm that offers therapeutic programs rooted in Hawaiian culture for adults with developmental disabilities, is fundraising via GoFundMe and its website to aid in rebuilding following the back-to-back Kona Low storms in March. Donations to the nonprofit will also go toward bringing on an organic farmer, according to Farm Director Christina Chang.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 12, 2026
Chef Jason Yamaguchi is the new consulting chef at Ki Club
Yamaguchi — who also owns Konpa, located in Southern California — is bringing Japanese-Peruvian cuisine to the Honolulu eatery. The new menu highlights Nikkei-style dishes ranging from ‘ahi nigiri and lomo saltado to mushroom ceviche.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 12, 2026
Hawai‘i men's volleyball wins national championship match over UC Irvine
After a slow start, the Rainbow Warriors won their third national championship of the decade and first since 2022.
Christian ShimabukuMay 12, 2026
Uncles and Aunties: Ron Montgomery, finds 'thrill' repairing planes
Ron Montgomery served in the Navy for 28 years as an aircraft mechanic and air crewman, and shortly after worked a 25-year career with Hawaiian Airlines. Now, you can find him volunteering to restore a variety of vintage planes, mostly World War II-era, at the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum. On May 23, the museum will hold a community event, themed Armed Forces Appreciation.
Cheryl Chee TsutsumiMay 12, 2026
Earning the right to teach
Fame is not the same as mastery, says ASD opinion columnist Sterling Higa, as he contemplates the careers of Kamohai and Tristyn Kalama, stars of "Renovation Aloha." The duo was in trouble again recently, this time for having run two illegal short-term rentals.
Sterling HigaMay 12, 2026