Happy
Honolulu
Tuesday, February 17th, 2026
Good morning, Honolulu. Here's your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 17th of February.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Officers swapped badges for paddles at the 35th Annual Law Enforcement Canoe Regatta in Waikiki (honoring the Special Olympics) while celebrating local traditions (and teamwork). KITV
- ➤ During President’s Day weekend, East Oahu lifeguards rescued 23 swimmers & carried out over 1,700 preventive actions amid high surf and strong east winds that made coastal conditions hazardous. They responded quickly to ensure public safety along the beach. KITV
ACCIDENTS NEWS
- ➤ Paramedics arrived at 1:43 p.m. today when good Samaritans pulled a man in his 40s from Ko Olina Lagoon at Lagoon 4 on Waipahe Place and took him to an emergency room in critical condition. Honolulu Star-Advertiser
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Matsumoto Shave Ice in Haleiwa celebrates 75 years in business today with live music and special offers that let local visitors savor a taste of its long-standing tradition. Hawaii News Now
- ➤ Local collectors benefit as rising gold and silver prices drive record business in Honolulu today; several shops report strong buyer interest that may boost unique finds and spur local economic activity in the coming days. KITV
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ An economic impact report from the American Hotel and Lodging Association showed Honolulu hotels generated $12 billion in economic activity and supported 63,912 jobs, with visitor spending boosting local restaurants, retail, and arts - the findings were released Feb. 12. Hawaii Free Press
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ A new survey shows most Hawaii residents believe rising sea levels are already affecting local coastal areas. The survey underlines concern that ongoing changes could soon impact neighborhoods and beaches. Hawaii News Now
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Military officials plan to turn Hawaii into a Pacific arms manufacturing hub by partnering with local firms and using new facilities at Honolulu Community College and Schofield Barracks. The strategy will boost defense capabilities and create local tech jobs. Hawaii Tribune-Herald
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Hawai’i healthcare leaders debated a merger between HMSA and HPH at a CEO Healthcare Summit on Feb. 12 (Hawaii Business Magazine event), where voices clashed over service cuts versus improved access and cost savings. Queen’s CEO warned the move could bring risk, while others stressed coordinated care could lower expenses. Hawaii Business
- ➤ Initiative Foods is recalling its Tippy Toes Apple Pear Banana Fruit Puree because tests found elevated patulin levels. Stores in Hawaii have removed the product, and shoppers are advised to check their supplies (for safety) before use. KITV
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Dozens of top girls basketball players competed on Presidents' Day at Iolani School during the annual Mufi Hannemann Basketball Jamboree. Several players will join the All-Star Team Aloha Squad + face mainland teams this spring. Hawaii News Now
- ➤ Gonzaga scored a five-run 12th inning to beat the Rainbow Warriors 7-2 at Les Murakami Stadium on Sunday — the win marked the Warriors’ first loss this season as players dealt with gusty winds and a light Manoa mist. Hawaii Tribune-Herald
- ➤ Elijah Ickes sprinted home on a wild pitch in the ninth inning to give the Hawaii baseball team a 4-3 win over Gonzaga at Les Murakami Stadium today, clinching the season-opening series. Honolulu Star-Advertiser
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Your work is to discover your work and then with all your heart to give yourself to it.
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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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