News

Hawaiian Electric recognized for emergency communications program

Local News April 24, 2026

Hawaiian Electric has received the 2026 Bronze Emergency Management Award from Chartwell Inc. for its public safety communications related to its Public Safety Power Shutoff program. The utility launched its PSPS program in 2024 to reduce wildfire risk during extreme weather conditions in areas with dry vegetation near electrical equipment, according to a news release. The program uses a multi-channel notification system to alert customers on Oahu, Hawaii island, Maui, Molokai and Lanai of potential or active power shutoffs. Alerts are sent through text messages, email and voice calls.

Tikehau Lounge earns regional honors in cocktail awards

Local News April 24, 2026

Tikehau Lounge in Wailea has been named a Top 10 regional finalist in two categories for the 2026 Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards. The craft cocktail bar was recognized in the U.S. West region for Best U.S. Bar Team and Best U.S. Cocktail Bar, according to a news release. It is one of 15 bars nationwide to earn multiple Top 10 honors. Tikehau Lounge, which opened in 2023, emphasizes locally sourced ingredients such as calamansi, persimmon and Maui Gold pineapple. Owners Jessica Sullivan, Jeff Groh and Jason Vendrell have also supported community efforts through fundraisers ...

Sheraton names sales and marketing director

Local News April 24, 2026

Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa has appointed Raphael Malcolm as its director of sales and marketing. Malcolm joins the Kaanapali Beach resort from The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua, where he led the event management department. He brings more than 10 years of hospitality experience, with a ...

Central Pacific Bank promotes Alinya Wolfe to Lahaina branch manager

Local News April 24, 2026

Central Pacific Bank has promoted Alinya Wolfe to branch manager of its Lahaina location. Wolfe joined the Central Pacific Bank in 2025 after serving as the assistant manager for the Kihei branch. Before relocating to Maui six years ago, Wolfe spent six years as a branch manager. Wolfe is ...

AAA Hawaii: Gas prices mostly flat; Kahului holds at $5.67

Local News April 24, 2026

Gas prices in Hawaii were largely unchanged over the past week, according to AAA Hawaii’s Weekend Gas Watch, while Lihue set a new record at $5.98. In Kahului, the average price for regular was $5.67, unchanged from last week and $1.17 higher than a year ago. The current price remains below ...

State, county parks remain closed

Local News April 24, 2026

Public access remains closed to Iao Valley State Monument, as well as Kepaniwai Park and Heritage Gardens, while work continues on storm-related repairs. The access road to the two parks remains closed except to local traffic. The initial closure followed flooding that began March ...