Happy
Honolulu
Wednesday, February 25th, 2026
Good morning, Honolulu. Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 25th of February.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Aloha United Way CEO Michelle Bartell discussed the nonprofit’s annual 211 report — released Feb. 11 — during a Spotlight Now interview. She explained the report connects local residents with vital support services. Hawaii News Now
- ➤ A town hall in West Oahu addressed the rising fentanyl crisis Tuesday night as local leaders and residents discussed ways to curb overdose risks in their community. KITV
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ A new 6,000 sqft venue at the former Hawaiian Hut site — developed with local contractors — will open March 3 in Honolulu to host concerts, corporate events and private celebrations. Developer Roberts Hawaii designed the space with high-tech sound, LED screens and flexible dining areas. Hawaii News Now
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Lee Tonouchi promotes pidgin through his writing and teaching after being named Hawaii’s latest poet laureate; his three-year term will include readings + workshops that celebrate a language born from the state’s plantation past. Hawaii News Now
- ➤ Kapono’s at The Lounge reopened yesterday to renew Hawaii’s music scene — reviving a legacy that boosts local artistry and offers a fresh chapter for the community. KITV
- ➤ Sea Life Park will host a multiweek Whale Festival featuring family activities, immersive exhibits, and educational talks in Waimānalo. The festival runs with weekly whale watching sessions (10 a.m.–2 p.m.) through Mar. 9 and spring break events, including a whale walk, until Keiki Sunday on Mar. 22. Hawaii News Now
- ➤ Celebrate Hawaiian Language Month today at 'E Hoʻolaulā i ka ʻŌlelo', a free+engaging event in Honolulu that lets locals explore Hawaiian culture while preserving their language. KITV
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Kamehameha Schools installed its first AI fire detection camera today in Hawaii Kai that scans for early wildfire signs and alerts Honolulu Fire Department, with six additional cameras set to operate in high-risk areas by the end of March. KITV
- ➤ A total lunar eclipse will be visible in Hawai‘i Monday night as the moon turns red (blood moon) from 1:04 to 2:02 a.m., giving locals a safe viewing option with the naked eye or binoculars. Honolulu Magazine
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Honolulu’s Department of Transportation Services will modify TheBus operations beginning March 1 with earlier A Line trips during peak hours, increased U Line frequency, and extended service on Route 40 and Route 433, including additional night service to the airport. Riders should check updated schedules ahead of time. KITV
- ➤ Honolulu’s Department of Transportation Services announced changes for TheBus starting Sunday, March 1 that adjust peak time departures for the A and U lines, add trips for route PH8, shift timing for route 23, and extend night service for routes 40 and 51. Hawaii News Now
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Today, Hawaii Medical Association president Dr. Nadine Tenn Salle offered her perspective on the proposed HMSA-Hawaii Pacific Health partnership and its potential to improve patient care in our community. Hawaii News Now
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
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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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