Honolulu News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now!

Plane Crash Survivors Swim to Safety

Honolulu gathered in solemn tribute at the Punchbowl Cemetery for its 75th annual Mayor’s Memorial Day Ceremony, honoring over 70,000 fallen heroes with music, hula, speeches, and a flyover. The mayor reminded all that sacrifice cannot be repaid, but the promise to never forget remains sacred. A combat veteran keynote speaker urged reflection on the true cost of war. This tradition, begun in 1951 just eight years before Hawaii became a state, includes placing a fresh lei on every grave — a quiet, powerful gesture of gratitude for those who gave everything. Memorial Day, observed nationwide on the last Monday of May...

Memorial Day roads were clear, but drivers brace for chaos starting Tuesday, May 26th—Hawaii DOT’s major closures are coming. H-1 sees lane shutdowns and shoulder work between Kapolei and Kunia, plus nightly westbound demolition in Kapolei. Pearl City’s viaduct repairs hit westbound lanes and Waipahu off-ramp. H-201 gets repaved nightly, switching lanes weekly. Sidewalk and curb ramp upgrades span Aiea to Kailua, running until October 2027. Kailua Road has single-lane closures for crosswalk removals. Check HDOT’s site before you drive.

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Hawaiian Flight Lands Safely After Tire Warning

Hawaii lawmakers Ed Case and Jill Tokuda are pushing a bold new bill to crack down on illegal fireworks by treating their interstate trafficking as a money laundering offense, dramatically raising penalties from one to twenty years to dismantle the financial networks fueling organized crime and public safety threats.

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SUN Bucks, a new summer food aid program for kids, accidentally sent cards to some SNAP recipients — but don’t panic, DHS is fixing it fast. If you got one by mistake, swap it for your regular card — help is available statewide. The goal? Keep kids fed, no drama.

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Senator Mazie Hirono and Rep. Pramila Jayapal just dropped a game-changing bill: the All Students Count Act of 2026. It’s designed to break down the massive, misleading “Asian American” category into 21 distinct subgroups — 15 for Asian Americans and 6 for Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders — so schools and policymakers can finally see the real disparities hiding beneath the surface. Too often, unique cultural, immigration, and historical experiences get erased when everyone’s lumped together. This bill forces the Department of Education and local districts to collect and report data on these specific communities within 18 months, giving them the visibility they’ve long been deni...

A 61-year-old fisherman vanished off Oahu’s west coast after heading out at 5 AM—his truck and trailer still at the ramp the next day sparked an urgent search. The Coast Guard found his boat Sunday, but the man remains missing. Authorities are still scouring the area, asking anyone with info to call VHF-FM 16 or 1-800-552-6458—every tip could be crucial.

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A 61-year-old fisherman vanished off Waianae’s coast after leaving on his 19-foot boat early Wednesday—his truck still parked at the ramp tipped off authorities. The Coast Guard has searched nearly 176,000 square miles with Navy support, found his boat adrift and towed it back, but he’s still missing amid brutal winds and swells. If you have info, call Sector Honolulu or Coast Guard Channel 16.

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Ebola is spreading fast in Congo, fueled by a deadly strain with no vaccine or treatment, and made worse by fierce local resistance. In Bunia, residents hurl stones and shout at health workers, calling Ebola a “white man’s invention” and refusing to trust outsiders. Armed conflict and trauma have left communities deeply suspicious, while attacks on hospitals and clinics—often over blocked funeral rites—have forced evacuations and terrified staff. With over 900 suspected cases and 220 deaths, WHO warns this is a runaway epidemic, delayed by misdiagnosis and slashed aid. Health workers are under siege, both physically and emotionally, as trust r...

Uncle Herb, a Pearl Harbor survivor and WWII hero from Hawaii, turned his wartime trauma into a lifelong mission to educate and inspire. Drafted in 1941, he witnessed the attack firsthand and fought in Europe’s fiercest battles before becoming a cherished storyteller at the Pearl Harbor visitor center. Through his autobiography and gentle presence, he taught generations about resilience, gratitude, and sacrifice—leaving behind a legacy that continues to honor those who served.

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Memorial Day isn’t just about sales and travel—it’s a solemn tribute to fallen soldiers, born from Civil War grief and evolving through history, now caught between reverence and recreation.

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Twelve elite Hawaii high school athletes are set to shine at the college level after being honored in the 2026 Hall of Honor — seven girls, five boys, all multi-sport stars destined for programs like Stanford, Duke, and UH. Selected by a 13-member committee from across the islands, these future legends include Kekama Kane (committed to UH football) and Zaira Sugui (30 wrestling offers, heading to Menlo). They’ll be formally recognized at a May 31 banquet with $2,000 scholarships — a tradition since 1983 celebrating Hawaii’s athletic excellence and dedication.

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Trump’s pushing a bold new twist on Middle East diplomacy: any Iran deal must include Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and others signing the Abraham Accords—those historic normalization pacts with Israel. He’s urging Qatar, Pakistan, Egypt, and Jordan to join immediately, even suggesting Iran could eventually sign too. While Egypt and Jordan already have peace treaties with Israel, Trump insists most nations should be on board for a unified regional reset. The plan? Boost cooperation across the Middle East and North Africa—with U.S. leadership at the helm.

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Israel’s opposition leader Yair Lapid is blasting a rumored U.S.-Iran deal as a catastrophic failure for Israel’s national security goals, accusing Prime Minister Netanyahu of ceding too much influence to Washington. Lapid calls the proposal—centered on Iran surrendering enriched uranium and reopening Hormuz in exchange for sanctions relief—dangerously weak, ignoring Iran’s missile program and regional meddling. He also criticizes Netanyahu for letting Trump sideline Israeli input, while reaffirming Israel’s sovereignty and rallying his coalition to unseat Netanyahu in elections. On Palestine, Lapid rejects a two-state solution now, citing recent trauma, but vows to bloc...

Europe is baking under unseasonal, record-breaking heatwaves that are turning deadly — from runners collapsing in Paris to Britain’s hottest May day since 1922. Authorities are sounding alarms, issuing health warnings, and urging caution, especially for the elderly, as scientists link these extreme events to accelerating global warming.

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An 80-acre farming incubator in Haleiwa is revolutionizing food security and opportunity for immigrants, refugees, and trafficking survivors—turning agricultural dreams into reality with land, training, and support. Veterans like Meechai Moda and Gigi Reynolds are cultivating their own crops, selling directly to locals, while the Pacific Gateway Center provides below-market leases, infrastructure, and business workshops. This isn’t just farming—it’s empowerment, resilience, and a bold step toward a more self-sufficient Hawaii, with a blessing ceremony set for June 12.

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Aloha Star Kona Coffee on Hawaiʻi Island faces yet another disaster—this time a 6.0 earthquake that shattered glass, toppled furniture, and left the Rodriguez family shaken both literally and emotionally. Still reeling from damage caused by a recent storm, the quake hit while Karina, Armando, and their son Elias were home, with Elias fearing the roof would collapse. Yet amid the chaos, they’re choosing to focus on what truly matters: their health, their love, and their resilience. The community rallied around them, with local businesses like Walmart and Randy’s Huli Chicken also feeling the tremor. As cleanup...

Hawaii families receiving food assistance may have received the wrong EBT card—SUN Bucks instead of Kokua—but don’t panic: the SUN Bucks still work at most stores. Around 800 households could be affected due to a mix-up by Fidelity Information Services. DHS is handling the fix, with processing centers ready to swap out the wrong cards. Acting Director Joseph Campos apologized for the confusion and urged patience as they work with FIS to resolve it. Call FIS at 1-888-328-4029 or DHS Public Assistance at 1-855-643-1643 for help.

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A frantic search is underway off Oahu’s North Shore for missing jet ski rider Anthony Empting, 56, last seen Saturday morning near Haleiwa Harbor. His jet ski was found nearby with keys still in the ignition and his life jacket and personal items onboard — a chilling clue. The Coast Guard, Honolulu Fire, and Ocean Safety are coordinating an extensive multi-agency search. If you’ve seen anything or have info, call Sector Honolulu at 1-800-552-6458 or reach out via VHF-FM channel 16.

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A 61-year-old fisherman vanished after taking his 19-foot boat out near Waianae Coast—his friends found the boat but not him. The Coast Guard launched a massive search Thursday, aided by Navy assets and aerial patrols, after his truck lingered at the ramp. Community hearts are racing as crews scour waters west of Oahu—any tips? Call Sector Honolulu or monitor channel 16. Hope is still alive.

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Alaska Airlines is trying to merge with Hawaiian Airlines, but the union’s hitting a snag—especially with flight attendants who’re fighting to preserve Hawaiian culture, like those iconic flower hair accessories. On international flights where Hawaiian planes fly under the Alaska brand, attendants must follow stricter Alaska appearance rules, sparking tension. This merger, unprecedented in U.S. aviation, forces a delicate balance: blending crews, systems, and identities without erasing what makes each airline unique. For longtime Hawaiian staff, these changes feel like losing part of their heritage and duty to represent the islands. The company insists these adjust...

Kona-lows slammed Oahu with record flooding, high winds, and blackouts affecting tens of thousands—22 homes destroyed, over $100 million in damage. Now, the Honolulu Youth Commission, made up of teens and young adults who’ve lived through the chaos, is demanding city and state leaders listen to real community voices, not just data. They’re pushing for better disaster planning rooted in lived experience, stronger communication, and deeper community involvement—because next time, they want the response to be smarter, faster, and more human.

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Hawaii just passed groundbreaking Act 011 to curb corporate election spending, directly challenging Citizens United’s legacy and aiming to restore democratic balance—though delayed until 2027 to avoid harming unions and nonprofits, this grassroots-driven law signals a bold push to limit big money’s grip on politics and empower everyday voters.

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Tiny worms are turning the tide on Hawaii’s invasive Queensland Longhorn Beetle—without chemicals or imports. Native to the islands, these microscopic nematodes hunt and kill the beetle’s larvae deep inside trees, reviving damaged crops in just months. Researchers have proven their effectiveness against 40 pests, and field trials show remarkable recovery. Now, scaling up the treatment—by streamlining lab production and helping farmers apply it—is the next big hurdle.

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Hawaii lawmakers finally move forward on a decades-long dispute over revenue from ceded lands, releasing $55 million to OHA — a critical step amid stalled negotiations and looming federal funding cuts, as a new panel takes over to finally settle the tab.

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Hawaii’s unemployment rate nudges up to 2.5%—its third straight monthly climb—now trailing South Dakota and North Dakota, though it remains the third-lowest nationally. While the state hit an all-time low of 2.0% last year, remote workers losing out-of-state gigs are skewing the numbers upward. Despite the ranking slip, nonfarm payrolls hit a 2019 high, painting a mixed economic picture. Forecasts now project a 2.5% year-end rate instead of the previous 2.0% target, echoing slowdowns from 2008-2009 without a full-blown recession. April also saw a slight labor force uptick, but fewer employed residents and more unemployed, with all major counties reporting higher unempl...

Carissa Moore makes a triumphant return to the top of surfing, claiming her 29th Championship Tour win—second all-time—at the Corona Cero New Zealand Pro, defeating Sawyer Lindblad 17.90 to 16.67. After a two-year hiatus to start a family, this victory is her first since coming back, and she dedicated it to her daughter, husband, and the late surf legend Greg Browning, inspiring other moms to chase their dreams. Moore’s emotional win echoes her first tour win at 17 in New Zealand, with her father present again. She also delivered the season’s highest women’s heat score (19.00) in the semis. Thi...

Maryknoll School and the University of Portland are teaming up to make college a guaranteed reality for top students—offering full scholarships up to $20,500 annually and four years of housing, all with a simple GPA requirement and clear pathway to acceptance, easing the stress of college admissions and opening doors to mainland opportunities for Hawaii families.

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Hawaiʻi’s scouts honor fallen heroes with a powerful Memorial Day tradition, placing flags and lei on every one of the 38,000 graves at Punchbowl Cemetery — turning history into hands-on service. Local businesses rallied behind them, donating lei and setting up donation boxes, ultimately collecting over 41,000 — proving community spirit runs deep. It’s more than decoration; it’s a vital lesson in sacrifice, remembrance, and connection to the past, ensuring heroes’ memories never fade.

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Jayden Maiava, USC’s rising quarterback, returned to his Hawaiian roots for his first free youth football camp in Palolo Valley, inspiring kids aged six to fourteen with his story and skills. Raised in the community that shaped his football journey—from Kaimuki High, coached by his uncle, to standout play at UNLV and now leading USC—he’s using his platform to give back. With jaw-dropping stats from his junior season and NFL buzz, he chose to return to USC to represent Hawaiʻi on a national stage. His camp isn’t just about football—it’s about showing young a...

Get ready to experience Hawaii’s vibrant art scene at The ART House in Waikiki — a new makers’ space opening May 30th at 6 PM, designed to spotlight local talent from every island. More than just art on the walls, this is a dynamic hub where creativity thrives, featuring rotating artist showcases every two months and free parking. Artists from Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and beyond will bring their unique island voices to life, creating a community vibe for both locals and tourists. Don’t miss this cultural hotspot — check it out at illuminatedARTHawaii.com or on Instagram.

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A powerful peace ceremony at Pearl Harbor marked a historic step toward reconciliation between the U.S. and Japan, as a 81-year-old flame from Hiroshima was extinguished by descendants of wartime leaders in a solemn oath for peace. The event, steeped in personal and historical significance, underscored the progress made since war’s end and called for learning from the past to build a more harmonious future. Public events continue this theme of remembrance and unity this Memorial Day weekend.

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Carissa Moore made history again, claiming her first WSL Championship Tour win since 2023 at the New Zealand Pro — and this one’s extra special because she’s now a mom. She crushed Sawyer Lindblad in the final with a blistering 17.90, including a jaw-dropping 9.40 ride with minutes left to play. After stepping away for two years to start her family, her triumphant return was emotional, heartfelt, and full-circle — her husband and dad carried her off the beach with daughter Olena in her arms. Now ranked sixth in the world, Moore’s win sets the stage for the tour’s next stop in El S...

This summer’s “one hundred deadliest days” sees a spike in road fatalities—mostly due to drunk driving, distracted driving, and lack of awareness. Law enforcement and advocates are urging everyone to stay focused, put phones down, and respect cyclists, especially with the “three-foot law” in place. One life lost is too many—let’s all take responsibility and make this summer safer for everyone on the road.

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Memorial Day weekend means major shutdowns across the islands—government offices, courts, and even trash collection are closed. Plan ahead: county halls, libraries, and the U.S. District Court are shut down Monday, May 25. Buses run Sunday schedules statewide, Skyline on Oahu operates from 8 AM to 7 PM. Landfills on Kauai and Maui close Monday—dump your trash before then. Normal operations resume Tuesday.

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Hanalei Bay Closed After Shark Sighting

Two men vanish off Oahu’s coast this Memorial Day weekend—one on a jet ski, the other on a fishing boat—sparking a massive search amid dangerous winds and rough seas. Rescue teams are scouring waters past Kauai, but conditions make recovery perilous. Authorities warn boaters and jet ski riders to wear life jackets, use kill switches, and never go out alone. If you have info, call the Coast Guard Sector Honolulu command center.

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A 38-year-old man named Michael Gardner is facing serious weapons charges after police raided his location amid reports he was threatening harm to himself and others. Authorities tracked him down in a dead-end street, deployed their Special Response Team, and arrested him with a $241,000 bail. If you’ve got info, contact Detective Amy Omaya at 808-961-2381.

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Memorial Day tribute at War Memorial Natatorium sparks restoration hopes; community rallies for historic sites revival.

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