Good morning, Honolulu.

Chef Chai reopened Thursday on Kapiolani Boulevard in Kakaako after closing on Nov.

12 for lacking a valid food establishment permit—its permit was issued on Nov. 13 and the restaurant is operated by Pomaikai Culinary Group LLC.

Raiatea Helm — a Grammy nominated and Na Hōkū Hanohano Award winning recording artist — talked about her new release today on Billy V LIVE! in Honolulu.

Less than 24 hours after the government reopened, experts said—bookings are down by 7% and inquiries are 20% lower as travelers remain worried about FAA issues and other travel problems.

They expect Hawaii’s tourism to continue to struggle in the coming months as uncertainty keeps visitor spending low.

An environmental law firm said recent BLNR decisions may be invalid because the board lacks a member with conservation expertise — Gov. Green did not reappoint Aimee Barnes in August and instead chose a candidate with a housing background.

The board will meet today and is set to defer decisions on key issues including a long-standing water rights dispute in East Maui until a qualified member is named.

A UHERO report shows disabled Maui residents still face housing, job and health challenges two years after the wildfires, with many living in temporary homes and struggling to get support—highlighting gaps in disaster recovery plans.

Shaka Santa and Tūtū Mele arrived at Honolulu Hale today with Mayor Blangiardi and city crews to mark the start of the holiday season and the countdown to the City Lights celebration — a new popular photo spot for families.

The 55-foot Cook Pine Tree was installed to complement upcoming Christmas displays at Thomas Square Park.

The U.S. Coast Guard detected and monitored a Russian military vessel (about 15 miles south of Oahu) during its routine surveillance.

At the Ewa Beach Public Library, Representative David Alcos hosted a town hall meeting where dozens of residents asked about government shutdown resources and how to access SNAP and emergency food programs.

Officials explained that SNAP is funded until September 30 and urged families to let experts determine eligibility rather than self-assessing — ensuring residents receive the help they need.

City officials held a blessing ceremony on Thursday morning for the new Kalapawai Roundabout in Kailua that is designed to ease traffic for drivers—bicyclists and pedestrians also will benefit from its improved drainage system that reduces flooding.

The project cost around $11 million, with 80% paid by federal funds and took about ten years to complete.

Hawaii’s Carissa Moore announced she will return to professional surfing by rejoining the World Surf League tour next year—ending her break from competition.