Happy
Honolulu
Thursday, January 8th, 2026
Good morning, Honolulu. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 8th of January.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Goodwill Hawaii is offering free IRS-certified tax prep services statewide for low-income individuals and families who earned $69,000 or less in 2025 during its 22nd year of service. Eligible residents can access assistance to file their taxes. KITV
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Hawaii-based cybersecurity firm Cypac explains how local businesses and families can guard against email scams and ransomware, said owner Attila Seres and technician Matthew Kent. The firm offers enterprise-grade threat detection and risk reduction with hands-on local support. Hawaii News Now
- ➤ HMSA & Hawaii Pacific Health have agreed to merge in one of the largest deals in Hawaii history, a plan that will combine hospital networks and may expand patient care. More details will be released as the process advances. Hawaii News Now
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Local publisher Bess Press has released An Illustrated Map Book of Hawai‘i featuring maps, flora, and fauna of the islands; local artist Lauren Trangmar used digital and watercolor techniques in the detailed illustrations, and signed copies are available at Da Shop: Books and Curiosities (3565 Harding Ave.). Honolulu Magazine
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ The Akamai Internship Program is now accepting applications for its 2026 cohort. Eligible applicants who study or are from Hawaii must apply by Friday, Jan. 23 to gain hands-on experience in STEM careers with local observatories (including Maunakea Observatories) and high-tech employers. Hawaii Tribune-Herald
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ The city has doubled rebates for water-saving upgrades by offering $150+ for ENERGY STAR clothes washers, $200+ for WaterSense toilets, and $400+ for smart water monitors. Local residents can upgrade their appliances to conserve water and lower bills. Hawaii News Now
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Hawaii Water Service is rolling out a grant program offering up to $40,000 for fire departments to address essential needs, as announced Jan. 7. Local units can apply for funds to boost fire safety across the islands. KITV
- ➤ In December, Skyline gained 11,000 riders as its service showed steady growth after the opening of its second segment (which contributed to the increase) in Honolulu. KITV
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ A new study by the University of Hawaii and USC found that exposure to forever chemicals may triple the risk of liver disease in Hawaii teens, raising potential health concerns as reported on Jan. 7. KITV
- ➤ The Hawaii Department of Health has ordered Ulta Lab Tests LLC to stop lab testing sold directly to consumers after finding the company and its depots violated state law since May 2022. The companies must file a hearing request within 20 days or face enforcement. Hawaii News Now
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Yesterday I was clever, so I wanted to change the world. Today I am wise, so I am changing myself.
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Reveal the authorAbout Happy Honolulu
Welcome to the Happy Honolulu, your community newsletter that's anything but snooze-worthy, packed with positive, impactful local news + events across the Honolulu, Hawaii community. If you like the Happy Honolulu, support us by subscribing to our email newsletter and sharing us with your friends and family in Honolulu.
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