The Honolulu Police Commission has named three finalists for the crucial role of police chief: Scott Ebner, Mike Lambert, and David Lazar.

 

This decision follows comprehensive interviews with six semi-finalists by local stakeholder panels earlier in the week.

 

A public meeting is set for May 20, where the commission will cast its vote for the next chief.

 

With the department facing over 460 vacancies and many senior officers approaching retirement, this choice will shape the future of Honolulu policing.

 

Residents continue to call for a leader committed to transparency and unwilling to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement.

 

The finalists will engage with the community during a public forum on May 14, allowing direct input before the final vote is cast.

 

This selection marks a pivotal moment for both the department and Honolulu’s future.

Honolulu EMS is raising concerns after a sharp increase in pediatric near-drowning cases across Oʻahu.

 

Since early 2026, responders attended 12 nonfatal incidents involving children ages 2 to 9, nearly doubling last year’s total for the same period.

 

These emergencies occurred in places families trust, such as swimming pools, hot tubs, and the ocean.

 

Dr. Jim Ireland, Emergency Services Director, described the situations as deeply distressing for families and responders alike.

 

He emphasized most could be prevented with vigilant supervision.

 

Water-safety advocates urge adults never to assume someone else is watching their child and to keep weak swimmers within arm’s reach.

 

Most recent incidents happened in backyard or hotel pools, not just at the beach.

 

Officials recommend designating a dedicated “Water Watcher” at gatherings to keep eyes only on keiki—no phones or distractions.

 

Check the water immediately if a child is missing, and call 911 in emergencies.

Governor Josh Green has released his 2026 Policy Report, presenting a vision for Hawaiʻi’s future and addressing residents’ critical concern: Can we still afford to live and thrive in the islands?

 

Available through the Governor’s Office, the report outlines priorities like lowering living costs, expanding housing, tackling homelessness, strengthening healthcare, growing local jobs, and building climate resilience.

 

For Honolulu families, this plan is a call to action — promising progress on rent, housing supply, healthcare, food security, job creation, and environmental protection so the next generation can stay rooted here.

 

Key strategies include reforms for affordable housing, workforce development, healthcare access, and disaster preparedness, with the Governor’s team stressing that these moves will benefit every Oʻahu community, from Pearl City to ʻEwa Beach.

 

The challenge now: Will these promises deliver real results for local people?

David Lazar, a retired assistant chief from San Francisco, was appointed as the new Honolulu Police Department chief, marking the first time in over nine decades an outsider will lead the force.

 

This unprecedented choice by the Honolulu Police Commission has generated a variety of reactions across the city.

 

While a recent survey found that nearly 90% of HPD officers preferred a local leader, the decision signals a bold shift toward fresh perspectives.

 

Chief Lazar now faces the challenge of uniting community members and officers, as he steps into his new role with a promise to build public trust and modernize policing in Honolulu.

 

His leadership comes at a pivotal moment as the department aims for continued reform and stronger community relations.

The Hawaiʻi State Legislature is nearing the finish line for the 2026 session, with lawmakers preparing for crucial final votes by Friday, May 8.

 

The centerpiece is the proposed state budget, targeting vital issues like housing, education, and recovery from recent Kona Low storms.

 

This week, House Bill No. 1800 CD1, the supplemental budget for 2025-2027, cleared major hurdles and now awaits approval in both the Senate and House before heading to the Governor.

 

The plan proposes $10.42 billion in general fund spending for 2026, increasing to $10.63 billion in 2027, with total funding across all sources set at $19.77 billion and $20.31 billion, respectively.

 

Senator Donovan M. Dela Cruz stressed support for Hawaiʻi's working families through tax relief and cost-saving steps, while Representative Chris Todd highlighted the budget’s balanced and collaborative approach.

 

Final decisions will shape essential services and impact every Hawaiʻi resident.

A Kalani High School senior has earned a coveted spot at the United States Air Force Academy, marking a significant milestone for both the student and the Honolulu school community.

 

This accomplishment showcases the student’s dedication and the nurturing, achievement-focused environment at Kalani High School.

 

Founded in 1958 and serving 1,400 students, Kalani High stands out with a 93% graduation rate, affirming its place among Hawaii’s top-performing high schools.

 

The Air Force Academy’s rigorous admissions process—requiring a congressional nomination and outstanding credentials—makes this acceptance an extraordinary honor. In December 2025, U.S. Representative Ed Case recognized a Kalani student as a principal nominee, reflecting the school’s high caliber.

 

This success story underscores the promise and pride of local students eager to serve their country, highlighting the boundless opportunities open to Honolulu youth with determination and vision.

 

The Kalani community celebrates and supports the senior as they advance toward this ambitious new chapter.

Divers from the state Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) have recently planted about two dozen nursery-raised corals at Kewalo Basin and Maunalua Bay, advancing efforts to restore Oahu’s reefs.

 

These corals, cultivated at the Hawai‘i Coral Restoration Nursery on Sand Island, were placed as part of a project aiming to outplant around 100 corals in total across the two sites.

 

Community engagement is a core element, with local dive shops volunteering to monitor the health and growth of the new coral, capturing photos to track their progress.

 

Planting nursery-grown corals increases resilience and accelerates reef recovery—what normally takes decades can be achieved in just one year.

 

The Restore With Resilience project has also brought community members into hands-on coral restoration, establishing new models for grassroots conservation in Hawai‘i.

 

United action by scientists and residents offers hope for thriving reefs in the future.

A Hawaiian monk seal pup was born at Kaimana Beach in Waikīkī on May 3, 2026, marking the seventh offspring for Kaʻiwi, a 15-year-old seal well known to locals.

 

This rare event highlights ongoing challenges in balancing wildlife conservation with public enjoyment at one of Oʻahu’s busiest gathering spots.

 

Authorities have installed new safety measures, asking everyone to keep at least 150 feet from mother-and-pup pairs and 50 feet from other seals.

 

Pet owners are required to leash their dogs and keep them well away from seals to avoid disruption.

 

Kaʻiwi’s consistent pupping at Kaimana, including births in 2021, 2023, and 2024, underscores the beach’s growing importance as an endangered seal nursery.

 

With only about 1,200 Hawaiian monk seals left, each pup born offers hope for the future.

 

Community vigilance and reporting sightings remain key to their protection.

FEMA is providing critical disaster relief to Honolulu communities impacted by recent natural disasters.

 

Local governments, non-profits, and houses of worship may qualify for financial assistance through FEMA’s Public Assistance program, which supports emergency work, debris removal, and the restoration of damaged facilities.

 

Residents facing hardship can apply to the Individual Assistance program for help covering essential expenses like temporary housing, urgent home repairs, and other needs insurance will not cover.

 

The Hawaii Department of Human Services is also offering the Disaster Case Management Program (DCMP), connecting survivors with case managers to build recovery plans and access resources.

 

For DCMP, individuals can join the waitlist by calling 211.

 

Applying promptly for these relief programs is essential for those seeking to rebuild and recover stronger.

The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART) will receive a nearly $90 million reimbursement from the state of Hawaiʻi, supporting the city’s ongoing rail project.

 

The approved $89.4 million covers construction, debt service interest, consultant fees, and insurance costs, following a thorough state audit that removed $43,000 in duplicate charges.

 

This careful review highlights the state’s focus on fiscal transparency and responsible public spending.

 

HART also secured major federal support, with the Federal Transit Administration releasing $125 million in April 2024 and an additional $250 million in December after key contracts were awarded.

 

In August 2024, HART awarded a $1.66 billion contract to Tutor Perini Corporation to build the City Center segment, featuring six stations and three miles of elevated guideway, aiming for completion by 2030.

 

Construction is advancing in Iwilei and Downtown, bringing Honolulu’s vision for modern rail closer to reality.

The Hawaiʻi Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) has issued a cease and desist order to BG Wealth Sharing LTD and individuals Cranci Ilima Luci Hoopai and Ligaya Joy Arcenas for allegedly offering unregistered securities through a cryptocurrency investment platform.

 

The group reportedly held presentations statewide, directly soliciting local residents without proper registration or authorization.

 

Each is facing a proposed $50,000 fine and a permanent ban from securities activities in Hawaiʻi, bringing the total penalty to $150,000.

 

Officials warn residents to be wary of investment pitches that claim high returns with little or no risk, as these are often linked to fraudulent activity.

 

Anyone contacted or invested in BG Wealth Sharing LTD should reach out to the State Securities Enforcement Branch’s Scam Line at 1-877-HI-SCAMS.

 

Hawai‘i's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate rose slightly to 2.4% in March from February's 2.3%, signaling a minor shift in local labor trends.

 

Despite this uptick, the state remains one of the nation’s leaders in low unemployment, reflecting ongoing economic resilience.

 

March saw 671,150 residents employed while just 16,200 were jobless, producing a total labor force of 687,350.

 

Compared to the U.S. average of 4.3%, Hawai‘i maintains a stronger employment landscape, further setting itself apart.

 

Honolulu County echoed this strength, posting a 2.2% unemployment rate in February 2026—a 0.5 percentage point drop from the prior year.

 

These trends underscore stable economic conditions and a robust job market, suggesting ongoing prosperity for both the state and its capital.

Honolulu is gearing up for the lively Poke Fest Honolulu, celebrating Hawaii’s iconic poke bowls and fresh seafood on May 18, 2026.

 

The open-air festival will showcase inventive poke creations from both seasoned chefs and rising amateurs, each seeking the honor of "King of Poke Fest."

 

Organizers are introducing a Poke Pass this year, offering guests quicker access to tasting stations and more chances to sample the festival’s unique bowls.

 

This is designed for seafood lovers eager to explore all the flavors without the lines.

 

The event promises more than food, with live entertainment, interactive games, and classic Hawaiian dishes creating an engaging, island-style atmosphere for everyone.

 

Advance Poke Passes are recommended due to strong demand, so plan ahead for smooth entry.

 

Both locals and visitors are invited to savor, celebrate, and connect at Poke Fest Honolulu this spring.

Honolulu’s food lovers are gearing up for the Poke Fest on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at Ka Makana Ali‘i in Kapolei.

 

From 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, more than 40 local vendors will offer their signature poke creations, making it a paradise for seafood fans.

 

The festival promises live music, family activities for keiki, and exciting giveaways.

 

Exclusive Poke Passes are available for $45, granting expedited entry, five 4 oz poke samples, and a collectible cooler bag — but they’re expected to sell out fast.

 

Top names like Ali‘i Fish Market, Ilea’s Kitchen, and Nico’s Pier 38 will serve up unique poke dishes just for the event.

 

Attendees can vote for their favorite, adding a delicious competitive twist.

 

Looking ahead, the 6th Annual Kauai Poke Fest is set to return on June 19–20, 2026, at Koloa Landing with Chef Sam Choy, live chef competitions, and Hawaiian entertainment — all supporting local nonprofits.

 

Don’t miss a true local culinary celebration.

Discover the vibrant charm of Waimānalo on O‘ahu with sunflower fields and family-friendly farm adventures that welcome guests of all ages.

 

Waimānalo Country Farms is preparing for its 2026 Sunflower Spring and Summer Event, expected to launch in June, depending on the blooms and weather.

 

Visitors can wander among golden sunflowers, sip on Nalo Made Lemonade, and taste farm-fresh cornbread from Tuesday to Sunday, 9 AM to 4 PM.

 

Private picnics and after-hours photo sessions can be reserved for a more personalized experience.

 

For animal lovers, Nalo Keiki Paniolo at DLT Ranch invites families to “DA ZOO” in May, featuring horses, alpacas, goats, and more.

 

Children enjoy a playground picnic area, while entry is $15 per person, with little ones under 2 admitted free.

 

Waimānalo’s sunflower farms deliver unforgettable moments where scenic beauty meets hands-on fun.

In the heart of Honolulu, a bernadoodle therapy dog named Aka is spreading comfort and hope.

 

This compassionate two-year-old provides emotional support to patients in hospitals, residents in nursing homes, and Hawaii Life Flight crews who face life’s toughest moments.

 

Aka’s visits offer respite to both those in need and frontline responders, highlighting the healing power of animals.

 

Part of a growing movement in Hawaii, therapy dogs are making remarkable impacts across the islands.

 

At The Queen’s Medical Center, facility dogs like Yoda and Ipo brighten patients’ days, easing discomfort and helping them connect.

 

Tripler Army Medical Center celebrates Nalu, a Labrador retriever, who supports young patients by reducing anxiety and building trust.

 

Together, these therapy dogs embody the aloha spirit, delivering hope and healing throughout Hawaii.

Honolulu’s Filipino community is preparing for the festive Filipino Fiesta on Saturday, May 2, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM at the Filipino Community Center in Waipahu.

 

This beloved gathering is Oʻahu’s largest celebration of Filipino heritage, bringing together vibrant music, dance, and art traditions.

 

Food lovers can savor authentic dishes from local icons like Elena’s Home of Finest Filipino Foods and Max’s of Manila, featuring crowd-pleasers such as pork adobo and crispy pata.

 

For a creative spin on old favorites, try Peso, a Honolulu hotspot known for its inventive Filipino-American offerings.

 

Visitors will also discover a lively marketplace, where artisans and small businesses present unique crafts and community services.

 

With performances and activities for all ages, the Filipino Fiesta is a vibrant, inclusive celebration of culture and community spirit.

George Ariyoshi, Hawaiʻi’s third governor and the first Asian American to lead a U.S. state, passed away peacefully on April 19, 2026, at age 100.

 

Born and raised in Honolulu, Ariyoshi served as governor from 1974 to 1986 and was widely admired for his humility, steady leadership, and deep commitment to Hawaiʻi’s people.

 

He guided the state with wisdom and integrity during times of economic transition, earning lasting respect across generations.

 

Governor Ariyoshi’s legacy as a visionary and trailblazing public servant will continue to inspire the local community and the nation for years to come.

Sailormen Inc., a major Popeyes franchisee, has recently filed for bankruptcy, causing several location closures in Florida and Georgia.

 

Though the news has sparked concern among Honolulu residents, no reports currently suggest that Popeyes restaurants in Honolulu are impacted.

 

The bankruptcy is concentrated in the Southeast, and does not extend to Hawaii.

 

Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen operates under a franchise model, meaning each location is independently owned and managed.

 

Financial problems facing one franchisee like Sailormen Inc. do not signal trouble for other franchisees or the brand overall.

 

Restaurant Brands International, the parent company, has emphasized that most Popeyes locations remain strong and profitable.

 

Honolulu’s Popeyes locations are expected to remain open and serve the community as usual.

 

Honolulu residents are facing a sharp rise in electricity bills as global oil prices surge, driven by ongoing tensions involving Iran.

 

Hawaiian Electric expects rates to climb between 20% and 30% in the coming months.

 

For families using 500 kilowatt-hours, monthly costs could jump by $39 to $58.

 

Because Hawaii relies heavily on imported oil, it remains particularly sensitive to worldwide price shifts.

 

To ease the burden, the utility is launching interest-free payment plans lasting up to six months, beginning April 6.

 

Residents can reach out to customer service to customize a plan that fits their situation.

 

Adopting energy-saving habits—like using fewer heat-intensive appliances and setting air conditioners to 78 degrees—may also help with rising costs.

 

This moment highlights Hawaii’s critical push toward renewable energy and reduced oil dependence.

 

Until those goals are achieved, households must adapt to a volatile energy market.

Honolulu drivers are grappling with much higher vehicle registration fees than those in other Hawaii counties.

 

The city currently charges a weight tax of 7 cents per pound, outpacing neighboring counties where rates are considerably lower.

 

Drivers with heavier vehicles pay hundreds of dollars more each year.

 

Registering a 5,000-pound truck can cost about $350 in Honolulu, compared to just $62.50 in Hawaii County.

 

State lawmakers are now weighing a bill to cut Honolulu’s vehicle weight tax to a statewide rate of 1.75 cents per pound.

 

If approved, this would greatly reduce registration bills for local residents.

 

However, some officials worry about losing revenue needed for road repairs and upgrades.

 

The debate continues, as Honolulu motorists hope for a fairer solution that also supports crucial infrastructure.

Lihiwai Estate in Honolulu’s Nuʻuanu Valley has hit the market for $22 million, inviting buyers to own a rare piece of local history.

 

Originally built for former Governor George R. Carter in 1928, this sprawling Mediterranean-Revival residence spans 1.8 acres and offers nearly 25,000 square feet across a main house and several guest cottages.

 

Meticulously restored, the estate retains original features like ohia hardwood, bronze windows, and limestone finishes, celebrating its architectural heritage.

 

Outdoor beauty flows from a private stream and dramatic waterfall, complemented by six bedrooms, ten baths, and a heated saltwater pool.

 

Listed at 51 Kepola Place, the estate stands out for its blend of historic elegance and modern luxury.

 

This iconic Honolulu property captures the city’s rich past alongside world-class comfort, making it an exclusive opportunity for discerning buyers.

Honolulu’s tonkatsu scene delivers an impressive array of authentic Japanese flavors for local food lovers.

 

Ginza Bairin Tonkatsu & Yoshoku Bistro in Waikīkī spotlights its famed Kurobuta Pork Loin Katsu—limited daily—offering a dining atmosphere that transports guests straight to Tokyo.

 

In the Kaimukī area, Nana Ai Katsu tempts diners with kasane tonkatsu: layers of Kurobuta pork, finished with their savory house-made sauce.

 

For fans of Nagoya-style miso katsu, Tonkatsu @Honolulu at Ala Moana, led by chef Keita Maeda, impresses with premium pork or A5 wagyu, paired with a homemade red miso sauce and crunch from local bakery panko.

 

Tonkatsu Kuro in Kaka‘ako stands out for its modern take, featuring Berkshire pork and fresh, crispy coating—perfect with soba noodles.

 

Meanwhile, Tonkatsu Tamafuji in Kapahulu rewards patient diners with meticulous, crave-worthy classics—best reserved in advance.

 

From traditional favorites to inventive bites, Honolulu’s tonkatsu restaurants deliver a delicious culinary adventure.

Honolulu’s Department of Planning and Permitting is hosting the ‘Rebuild O‘ahu’ event for residents recovering from March’s destructive Kona Low storms.

 

Set for Saturday, April 18, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Waialua District Park’s gym, the event offers one-on-one guidance, permit assistance, and direct support to help families get back on their feet.

 

City and state agencies, community partners, and local businesses will be on hand to answer questions about repairs, regulations, and rebuilding steps.

 

DPP staff will help with building permits, flood requirements, and creating HNL Build accounts, with free prescheduled appointments available all day.

 

Walk-ins are welcome, but early registration is encouraged for faster service.

 

The city has also launched the Rebuild Donation Match Registry, connecting affected families with donated materials and volunteer help as O‘ahu works to recover together.