Good morning, Honolulu.

Kaya Store, one of the few family-owned general stores on Oʻahu, welcomes visitors in Punaluʻu (a cherished local gem) and offers a glimpse into community heritage.

Fourteen endangered minors were safely recovered last Thursday and Friday through a coordinated effort by state and local agencies across Oahu (tips from the community aided investigators) as each child was screened for abuse and trafficking.

Hala Tree Café opened on July 1 in Waikīkī on Kānekapōlei Street, offering 100% Kona coffee from its family farm + locally sourced pastries and savory items by award-winning chef Abigail Langlas.

The café plans after-hours workshops for the local community.

Shake Shack will open its first Oahu location at Ala Moana Center in 2027, replacing the former Sugar Factory spot + Hookipa Terrace.

The restaurant will feature locally inspired flavors and artwork that reflect the island's warm hospitality.

Hawaii’s Maia Kealoha will reprise her role as 'Lilo' in Disney’s upcoming short film Lilo and Scratch, highlighting local talent and culture (details on release are pending).

City officials have planned Hawai‘i America250 celebrations to honor Oahu’s rich history and cultural diversity, set to include tributes to Japanese-American veterans (reportedly at Iolani Palace).

The events will highlight local leaders, athletes and entertainers as part of the nation’s 250th anniversary.

The University of Hawaii announced UKIRT will end science operations Sept.

15 to allow decommissioning of the aging facility + address funding challenges. The process, expected to finish by 2030, follows nearly five decades of astronomical discoveries on Maunakea.

Vassilis Syrmos was unanimously named the new chancellor of UH Mānoa following a nationwide search and will begin leading the university as it sets its academic priorities.

Hawaii Leadership Academy is enrolling for its Fall 2026 Cohort, a five-week executive leadership program for director-level professionals.

The program runs every Friday from September 11 to October 9 at the Hawaii Employers Council Conference Room (registration ends August 31 or when 30 spots fill).

Residents are urged to practice fire safety this weekend as HIEMA warns that dry conditions, lower humidity, and holiday activities like fireworks and barbecues can spark wildfires, and recommends safe outdoor cooking, equipment use (including keeping a hose nearby) and reporting fires by calling 911.

Honolulu City and County services adjust for Independence Day on Friday, July 3.

Emergency, transit and Skyline run on modified schedules while the Neal S. Blaisdell Center box office, People’s Open Markets, satellite city halls and most state libraries remain closed, and parking rules change for Lanikai and Kalākaua Avenue.