Hawaii News Now

Housing costs are creating challenges for Hawaii’s public schools as they work to recruit and retain teachers, with one Wahiawa Middle School teacher now worried he may have to leave the state if he cannot find affordable housing. Meanwhile, Hawaii Supreme Court justices questioned state and county election officials Wednesday over the handling of two improperly cast ballots in a winner-take-all Republican primary that ended in a tie.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Hurricane Lowell continues strengthening, Kauai residents are keeping an especially close eye on a track that is drawing eerie parallels to Hurricane Iniki. Meanwhile, recovery efforts are still underway across the Big Island nearly two weeks after Hurricane Lala devastated local communities. Plus, the West Oahu primary election controversy is headed to the State Supreme Court as justices prepare to weigh in on the saga.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A bittersweet a hui hou and savory island traditions. We look back at a wonderful four years with host Lauren Teruya on her final show and preview the modern, mouthwatering dishes you can enjoy at this weekend's Okinawan Festival.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hurricane Lowell has strengthened into an extremely powerful Category 5 storm, with its forecast track showing a sharp right turn to the north over the weekend. Meanwhile, Hawaii County Mayor Kimo Alameda provides an update on recovery efforts more than two weeks after Hurricane Lala. And in local news, a woman has been killed following an overnight rollover crash in McCully. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A man will not be put on trial for allegedly killing his grandparents three years ago. The Honolulu Zoo has re-opened two exhibits that have now been fully upgraded and are preparing in case we get pandas from China. Plus, an effort to raise money for science, engineering and math programs across Maui County has taken place.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Maui Police Department has released the name of a veteran officer under investigation for sexual assault. Meanwhile, an animal rights group is demanding the release of captive dolphins following the sale of Sea Life Park. Plus, more than three years after Skyline's first ride, Honolulu's rail system has reached a new ridership record. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Weekend plans are packed with local culture, exquisite flavors and game-day rewards. Today on HI Now Daily, discover custom creations at the upcoming Okinawan Festival, secure tickets to a fantasy-themed culinary gala and learn how to score free fries during the UH college football season.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hurricane Lowell is rapidly intensifying and is now expected to pass to our south as a powerful Category 4 storm with 150 mph winds. This dangerous new threat comes as Kaʻū continues large-scale recovery efforts just weeks after Hurricane Lala. Meanwhile, residents in Waiākea are finally seeing some relief after days in the dark as power is successfully restored.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today’s episode of Spotlight Now looks at the current state of Hawaiʻi’s economy and tourism trends. Recent state data indicating more visitors came to the islands in July but stayed for fewer days. The figures show the state lost more than one million visitor days with growth concentrated on neighbor islands, leaving Waikīkī with a lackluster summer. Carl Bonham, executive director of the University of Hawaiʻi Economic Research Organization (UHERO), sets the big picture of Hawaiʻi’s economy with U.S. visitors now accounting for more than 80% of visitor spending. Then we’re joined by Kelly Sanders of Highgate, who oversees several hospitality properties in Hawaiʻi, including ʻAlohilani Resort Waikīkī Beach. He’ll discuss what shorter stays mean for hotel workers and nearby businesses, and whether Hawaiʻi has become too expensive for target visitors.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The U.S. is taking additional military action against Iran following reported attacks in the Strait of Hormuz. Paramedics responded to two separate crashes involving motor bikes on Oahu's North Shore, both resulting in serious injuries. How Tropical Storm Lowell will impact our islands when it's forecasted to pass south of Hawaii Island late Wednesday into Thursday. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New numbers just released show how much damage was left by Hurricane Lala. Rescuers are searching for at least one survivor after deadly flooding in the Grand Canyon. Plus, the storms forced a cleanup mission in the northwest Hawaiian islands to lose valuable days dodging the cyclone.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two years after a deadly shooting rampage in Waianae, the Keamo family is suing the city over the deaths of three relatives. Meanwhile, Honolulu Police Chief David Lazar has selected his two permanent deputy chiefs. Plus, the governor announced that Hurricane Lala damaged nearly 700 homes and structures across the state. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New numbers from the state show many homes were damaged by Tropical Cyclone Lala. Honolulu Police Chief David Lazar named his two deputy chiefs today, explaining why they are the right men for the job. Plus, two people are dead and more than a dozen remain missing after extreme flash flooding tore through the Grand Canyon.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ancestral journeys, starlit jazz picnics and chasing the next big swell. Trace your lineage at the Okinawan Festival this weekend, discover Kai Lenny's secrets to spontaneous global travel with First Hawaiian Bank and pack a picnic for live jazz music under the stars.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Honolulu's new police chief announced his new permanent deputy chiefs Monday, describing them as forward thinkers and steady leaders with integrity and a strong work ethic. A deputy city prosecutor was among several arrested on suspicion of DUI during a joint enforcement effort yesterday. Police are searching for the driver behind an early-morning hit-and-run on the H-1 Freeway that critically injured a woman.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With many still recovering from Hurricane Lala, residents are now looking to community organizations for help. We're giving you a first look at the demolition of Ward Center, just two months after tenants moved out. And City Council Chair Tommy Waters runs out of options as Hawaii's high court rules on his re-election appeal.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A furlough inmate is back in custody this morning after escaping and spending nearly a day on the run. We check in on two storms heading toward the islands and how they might impact your Labor Day Weekend plans. Plus, a new development regarding Hawaii County's lease at Punaluu Black Sand Beach.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hawaiian Electric has restored power to another thousand families left in the dark for nearly two weeks following Hurricane Lala. Meanwhile, a landmark settlement with Meta is set to bring major changes to how your children use Facebook and Instagram. Plus, two Hawaii Island public libraries have finally returned to full service after storm-related closures.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Big wins, home improvement and sweet local treats. Join Kainoa live from UH Mānoa to support Hawai'i's team with premium sports tickets, prepare your home for storm season, and celebrate a local snack's milestone birthday with a sweet giveaway.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A divided Hawaii Supreme Court today declared City Council Chair Tommy Waters is ineligible to run for another term. Hawaiian Electric has restored power to another 1,000 famililes left in the dark after Hurricane Lala nearly two weeks ago. And the Salvation Army has now stepped in to help with daily meals for 220 residents for up to seven days, or until power is restored.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Breaking news out of the Hawaii Supreme Court where justices have declared City Council Chair Tommy Waters ineligible to run for another term. New York Governor Kathy Hochul has granted a pardon to Sae Joon Park, the Purple Heart veteran who self deported to Korea last year after living in the U-S for nearly 50 years. And the U.S. Treasury Department announced new steps today to further isolate Iran economically, as the war hits the six-month mark today. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The road to recovery for hard-hit Ka'u will be even tougher, as officials discover much of the area's waterlines were wiped out by Hurricane Lala. Saturday is Food Drive Day for the Hawaii Foodbank. We'll tell you why this year's drive will look a little different than years past. Californians are choosing a new destination to travel to instead of Hawaii. Howard Dicus will tell you more on this in your business news report this morning. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Farmers and ranchers on Hawaii Island are still dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Lala, with widespread damage to water lines threatening agricultural operations in some of the hardest hit areas. Plus, in times of natural disasters and trauma, the physical needs of a community are important. But addressing the emotional well-being of victims, volunteers, and first responders is equally vital.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We've seen the destruction left behind by Hurricane Lala, but sometimes the emotional toll on victims lasts far longer than the damage. Power in Pahala, including Ka'u Hospital is now restored, but HECO says about 1,400 customers are still in the dark. A veteran-led nonprofit is working on Oahu and Hawaii Island to remove storm debris in neighborhoods and roads impacted by Lala.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From finding a new furry family member to staying healthy on the go and hearing live local music, we have your weekend plans covered. On today’s show, learn about fee-waived pet adoptions, convenient drive-thru wellness clinics and an exclusive interview with local singer Sienna.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

President Trump is redesigning the map of the border with the U.S. and Canada, as trade talks with the northern neighbor are off. Honolulu police are warning the public after responding to a dozen overdoses in less than a week on Oahu. And HPD's new chief says it's time to make Waianae its own police district, with a new station and more officers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We have the latest numbers from Hawaiian Electric that tell us who is still without power on Hawaii Island. We'll tell you where the total stands as of this morning. Plus, we'll tell you about two animal shelters on Maui that were heavily damaged by the storm, as well as what recovery is looking like for them. We'll tell you how you can get your kids prepared for more financial responsibility. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Along a busy Chinatown street, confusion remains over a curb that many businesses and delivery drivers rely on in front of Cindy’s Lei Shoppe on Maunakea Street. Plus, law enforcement officials are issuing a second warning in two weeks about fentanyl.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hawaii is part of a $17.1 billion multi-state settlement with social media giant Meta Platforms that forces the company to implement sweeping child-safety measures on Facebook and Instagram. Plus, the Hawaii Department of Health (DOH) is investigating a sixth reported case of cyclosporiasis in the state that may have been acquired locally.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A healthier community, exciting career paths, and weekend music plans start right here. Explore custom hydration resources, learn how to start your journey as a city EMT, and hear beautiful local songs from Tanama.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For the first time since his arrest for murder six years ago, a Maui man is speaking out from behind bars claiming he's innocent. A Hawaii Island mother whose son was struck and killed by an alleged drunk driver is shocked to find out the suspect moved to Florida. A compact wastewater treatment system is being tested in Central Oahu to offer thousands of homes on cesspools an affordable alternative.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As thousands remain in the dark after the recent storms, Hawaii's governor is eyeing ways to improve our infrastructure. Hawaii public schools are expanding their menus! We'll tell you what new dishes are being added to their weekly lineup. What you need to know before flying that could make everyone's experience easier. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Families search for answers about their loved ones' remains after Hurricane Lala severely damaged the Naalehu cemetery. In the wake of the storm, state officials are also warning residents to beware of post-disaster construction fraud. Plus, the State Supreme Court is hearing arguments over the highly contested East Honolulu council race.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Hawaii Supreme Court is weighing an elections challenge that could put Tommy Waters back on the November ballot. Meanwhile, Governor Green announced that federal relief funds are on the way for communities recovering from Hurricane Lala. Plus, as the world mourns the loss of an American icon, we look back at Dolly Parton's legacy and her special connections to the Aloha State. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Looking for a deal or something new to try? We’re checking out Labor Day savings on home appliances and getting a first look at a new dining experience at Queen’s Marketplace.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Spotlight Now, Gov. Josh Green and Office of Hawaiian Affairs Chair Kai Kahele join the program to detail the critical recovery efforts following Hurricane Lala and map out the state's long-term resilience. Gov. Green reports on the $81 million in damages concentrated on the Big Island, the state's historic partnership with the military to fly in utility vehicles, and the highly sensitive recovery of a disrupted cemetery in Nāʻālehu. He also issues a direct call for power grid reforms and proposes a second deep-water harbor on the Big Island to secure Hawaiʻi's shipping resilience. Then, OHA Chair Kai Kahele outlines the agency's $500,000 emergency fund used to airlift supplies to isolated Kaʻū communities. Kahele also discusses OHA's demand for a seat in military land-lease negotiations, updates the agency's due diligence on a potential purchase of local television stations KITV and KIKU, and explains OHA's plans to develop residential housing in Kakaʻako Makai.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country music legend Dolly Parton has died at the age of 80 — we explore her special connections to Hawaii. The family of a Southwest Airlines flight attendant found dead in Waikiki last week wants more information on her passing. A West Oahu lawmaker who lost a random drawing to break a primary election tie has filed a challenge with the Hawaii Supreme Court.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A convicted killer erupts during his sentencing in a Maui courtroom. His fate and why his lawyer says he shouldn't be put in prison. Outrage as, years after her death, a native Hawaiian activist appears to endorse a candidate for office. But her image was AI-generated. The legal action that can now be taken thanks to a new law. Looking to hail a cab? You may soon need to look up. When and where these air taxis will help get people around. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Loved ones of a Southwest flight attendant found dead in Waikiki say her death appears suspicious. A congressional candidate is sparking outrage across the islands after using AI to generate a fake campaign endorsement from the late Native Hawaiian activist Haunani-Kay Trask. Plus owners of a beloved, long-running bake shop in Naalehu are vowing to rebuild after a devastating storm.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Explosive moments in a Maui courtroom as a man convicted of reckless manslaughter leans his sentence. Honolulu police have opened an investigation after a southwest airlines flight attendant was found dead in Waikiki. Plus, thousands of Big Island residents are still without power since Hurricane Lala. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Live music, global career paths and community connections. Tune in today’s show as we preview the Waimea Valley Summer Concert Series, explore over 300 job opportunities with NAVFAC Pacific and see how Teach For America is empowering local students.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tropical Depression Moke continues on a path well south of the islands, but shower bands associated with it could still bring a threat of flash flooding to parts of Hawai'i Island. While Hilo was spared from Moke's heavy rain, over 6,400 Hawaiian Electric customers remained out of power as restoration work focused on areas hit hardest by Hurricane Lala. Meanwhile, the state Department of Education is distributing free weekly meals for children in the Ka'ū district.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We've avoided the worst of Moke, but thousands of Hawaii Island residents remain in the dark after Lala. An insurance payout for Hawaii's coral reefs. How much a non-profit will receive because of storm damage. And, cases of e-bike injuries are continuing to climb. What parents should know before investing in an e-bike or scooter. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tracking Tropical Storm Moke as it nears Hawaii Island. We have team coverage across the islands, bringing you the latest update statewide. Get your social media questions answered on air by our team of meteorologists. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Residents on Hawaii Island are bracing for the impact of Tropical Storm Moke as the weather system approaches. In preparation, the Department of Defense and the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency are closely monitoring the Wahiawa Dam. Meanwhile, approximately 9,300 customers remain without power across Hawaii Island, Maui County, and Oahu.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Authorities in Kaʻū have identified 69 sets of human remains exposed by Hurricane Lala’s flooding in Naalehu. Nearby, in Waiohinu, the storm also damaged Kauaha’ao Congregational Church and its graveyard. Plus a Maui family was displaced after Hurricane Lala destroyed their multi-generational home.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tropical Storm Moke is moving towards Hawaii days after Hurricane Lala battered the state. On Hawaii Island, residents are still cleaning up the damage while also preparing for the possibility of more severe weather. Meanwhile, on Oahu, first responders are preparing for the next round of severe weather and warn residents that response times increase during heavy rain.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sweet local favorites, community connections and game-day plans. We are previewing UH football with family ticket packages, checking out Hawaiian Happy Cakes available at the Made in Hawaii Festival, and learning how to build pride in business at the upcoming Rainbow Town Hall.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

University of Hawaii researchers said Hurricane Lala dumped enough rainwater on the islands to fill nearly 2 million Olympic-sized pools, with Hawaii Island alone receiving 833 billion gallons of rain. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is closing all park sites at 5 p.m. ahead of the new storm system, Tropical Storm Moke. Hawaiian Electric expects nearly all impacted customers to be restored on Hawaii Island by today, except for customers in remote and severely damaged areas.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With another storm on the way, thousands are still without power following Lala last weekend. The latest on statewide restoration efforts. An extension for a key lifeline for many families impacted by the storm. Details on how you can apply to replace food that went bad. A warm welcome for the newest batch of UH Manoa students. We'll take you inside the celebration as they get set for classes this coming Monday. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hawaii Island — already hit hard by Hurricane Lala — could now be doused with even more rounds of rain. State officials outline the scramble to prepare. Friends mourn the death of Lala's second victim, a retired professor and community fixture who loved nature. Meanwhile on Oahu, the incoming storm is increasing anxiety for families who live below Lake Wilson in Wahiawa.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.