Hawaii State News http://feed.informer.com/digests/OY5RCPPWXF/feeder Hawaii State News Respective post owners and feed distributors Sat, 12 Sep 2020 04:58:42 +0000 Feed Informer http://feed.informer.com/ Scoreboard – October 4, 2025 https://www.staradvertiser.com/2025/10/04/sports/scoreboard-october-4-2025/ Honolulu Star-Advertiser urn:uuid:566c0916-eb21-7be7-93e3-41f4ab42f50b Sat, 04 Oct 2025 10:05:55 +0000 TODAY FOOTBALL ILH Open: Saint Louis at Kamehameha, 7:30 p.m. OIA Open Division: Kahuku at Farrington, 6:30 p.m.; Mililani at Leilehua, 7:30 p.m. OIA Division I: Moanalua at Kailua, 3 p.m.; Aiea at Waianae, 6:30... Television and radio – October 4, 2025 https://www.staradvertiser.com/2025/10/04/sports/television-and-radio-october-4-2025/ Honolulu Star-Advertiser urn:uuid:3bbee27a-b0d4-5b18-069d-9a63b6b69600 Sat, 04 Oct 2025 10:05:30 +0000 ON THE AIR Listings are for Spectrum and Hawaiian Telcom analog/digital. *—premium station. **—retelecast. ***—delayed. Check your TV guide for latest updates. TODAY TIME TV CH HT AUTO RACING F-1 Singapore Grand Prix qualifying 2:55... Iwai takes 1 shot lead into final round; 8 golfers a shot back https://www.staradvertiser.com/2025/10/04/sports/iwai-takes-1-shot-lead-into-final-round-8-golfers-a-shot-back/ Honolulu Star-Advertiser urn:uuid:df5608c7-06a6-42c2-4509-a5c080c69aff Sat, 04 Oct 2025 10:05:00 +0000 <p>Akie Iwai leads going into the final round of the LPGA&#8217;s Lotte Championship presented by Hoakalei.</p> Arquette does it all in leading Wahine to victory https://www.staradvertiser.com/2025/10/04/sports/arquette-does-it-all-in-leading-wahine-to-victory/ Honolulu Star-Advertiser urn:uuid:d1a87069-babe-4696-f738-a1fee4dcac7c Sat, 04 Oct 2025 10:05:00 +0000 <p>With everything Adrianna Arquette is asked to do, triple-doubles could become the norm.</p> No. 3 Kapolei breaks through vs. No. 6 Campbell with convincing win https://www.staradvertiser.com/2025/10/04/sports/hawaii-prep-world/no-3-kapolei-breaks-through-vs-no-6-campbell-with-convincing-win/ Honolulu Star-Advertiser urn:uuid:69091008-c074-9500-a6c2-d39c61a43fa8 Sat, 04 Oct 2025 10:05:00 +0000 <p>Mathias Nera-Voa broke the ice with a sack for a safety in the second quarter as <a href="https://www.staradvertiser.com/2025/10/03/photo-gallery/prep-football-kapolei-vs-campbell/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">No. 3 Kapolei overwhelmed No. 6 Campbell 31-13</a> on homecoming night at the Hurricanes&#8217; field.</p> Funding for 6 Hawaii energy projects terminated https://www.staradvertiser.com/2025/10/04/hawaii-news/funding-for-6-hawaii-energy-projects-terminated/ Honolulu Star-Advertiser urn:uuid:2548f7b3-009f-b1e2-d348-f2e6c248db24 Sat, 04 Oct 2025 10:05:00 +0000 <p>At least $67 million in federal funding for six Hawaii energy projects appears to have been pulled by the Trump administration over qualms about worthiness.</p> Kaiser union workers deliver 5-day strike notice https://www.staradvertiser.com/2025/10/04/hawaii-news/kaiser-union-workers-deliver-5-day-strike-notice/ Honolulu Star-Advertiser urn:uuid:772fe717-d9a6-3692-9817-a31240af8ede Sat, 04 Oct 2025 10:05:00 +0000 <p>Thousands of health care workers are set to walk off the job at Kaiser Permanente in coming weeks.</p> Hawaii can absorb shutdown for ‘weeks to months,’ Green says https://www.staradvertiser.com/2025/10/04/hawaii-news/hawaii-can-absorb-shutdown-for-weeks-to-months-green-says/ Honolulu Star-Advertiser urn:uuid:f4f2a285-fb1c-5cb6-b442-12a5a45b16ba Sat, 04 Oct 2025 10:05:00 +0000 <p>Hawaii has enough federal funding to keep the federal SNAP food stamp program running until Oct. 31 and Women, Infants and Children clinics will continue to operate normally through Nov. 30, Gov. Josh Green told the Honolulu Star-Advertiser on Friday.</p> Planning begins for new Kamehameha III Lahaina campus https://www.staradvertiser.com/2025/10/04/hawaii-news/planning-begins-for-new-kamehameha-iii-lahaina-campus/ Honolulu Star-Advertiser urn:uuid:b09c945f-98e8-35f5-4e24-d68627f6502e Sat, 04 Oct 2025 10:05:00 +0000 <p>The state, Maui County, and federal and private partners are moving ahead with plans to rebuild King Kameha&#0173;meha III Elementary School &#0010;at the Ku&#0699;ia site below the &#0010;Lahaina Bypass, officials announced Thursday. Cultural and environmental surveys for the 14-acre property are expected to begin in the coming months.</p> City seeks Royal Kunia affordable rentals project developer https://www.staradvertiser.com/2025/10/04/hawaii-news/city-seeks-royal-kunia-affordable-rentals-project-developer/ Honolulu Star-Advertiser urn:uuid:43be6098-2807-7303-9892-0feb0b4caecc Sat, 04 Oct 2025 10:05:00 +0000 <p>A land developer is being sought to convert a city-owned parcel within Oahu&#8217;s Royal Kunia subdivision to an affordable rental community, a city news release states.</p> Invasive species control efforts are paying off, UH report finds https://www.staradvertiser.com/2025/10/04/hawaii-news/invasive-species-control-efforts-are-paying-off-uh-report-finds/ Honolulu Star-Advertiser urn:uuid:3f6cac83-0982-1e59-e593-6d77ab37ee5d Sat, 04 Oct 2025 10:05:00 +0000 <p>Three biological control programs aimed at tackling invasive species in Hawaii are showing positive economic returns, with two delivering especially strong results, according to a recent economic analysis conducted by the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization.</p> Editorial cartoon for Saturday, October 4, 2025 https://www.staradvertiser.com/2025/10/04/editorial/editorial-cartoons/editorial-cartoon-for-saturday-october-4-2025/ Honolulu Star-Advertiser urn:uuid:8c21f413-748b-9c1b-938c-9862c0bddc70 Sat, 04 Oct 2025 10:05:00 +0000 <p>By Star-Advertiser staff</p> Letter: 2nd Amendment doesn’t consider modern guns https://www.staradvertiser.com/2025/10/04/editorial/letters/letter-2nd-amendment-doesnt-consider-modern-guns/ Honolulu Star-Advertiser urn:uuid:c4fc8ef9-75a9-8dd9-90fa-8a5e555007cd Sat, 04 Oct 2025 10:05:00 +0000 <p>I continue to request that all lawmakers, especially those at the federal level, read the Second Amendment and focus on this phrase: &#8220;the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.&#8221;</p> Letter: End of EV subsidies will give insight into demand https://www.staradvertiser.com/2025/10/04/editorial/letters/letter-end-of-ev-subsidies-will-give-insight-into-demand/ Honolulu Star-Advertiser urn:uuid:ca040b20-955d-b181-6ea2-c3deae5dab52 Sat, 04 Oct 2025 10:05:00 +0000 <p>Sept. 30 was the last day for federal electric vehicle subsidies. In a free market capitalist system, this is appropriate. Government subsidies encourage waste, fraud and inefficient allocation. </p> Letter: High-rise buildings a bane on Hawaii lifestyle https://www.staradvertiser.com/2025/10/04/editorial/letters/letter-high-rise-buildings-a-bane-on-hawaii-lifestyle/ Honolulu Star-Advertiser urn:uuid:89723982-ca90-a2d7-4b65-4ab71fd4fe39 Sat, 04 Oct 2025 10:05:00 +0000 <p>Stop ruining Honolulu. My favorite place as a kid was a Korean restaurant located downtown. Countless meals, words and laughs were shared there with friends and family for birthday celebrations, reunions and more. A couple years ago, news came that it was being closed indefinitely. Why? To make space for another high-rise building, overcrowding the limited space we have left. </p> Column: Ka hiʻona ʻāina o Laamaikahiki, Maui https://www.staradvertiser.com/2025/10/04/editorial/kauakukalahale/column-ka-hiaeona-aeaina-o-laamaikahiki-maui/ Honolulu Star-Advertiser urn:uuid:06344965-787f-fbb2-b461-54e60d0f7fe3 Sat, 04 Oct 2025 10:05:00 +0000 <p><em>Synopsis: The island of Maui is made up of 12 districts called moku. The moku of Kahikinui is a parched landscape located on the southeast side of the island. There are only a few homes there today, but in the past it was a place where Hawaiians flourished. There are many traditional Hawaiian stories that tell of Kahikinui, and many artifacts of settlement have been found. It is a beautiful place to visit.</em></p> Puna man, 57, charged for burglary while naked https://www.khon2.com/hawaii-crime/puna-man-57-charged-for-burglary-while-naked/ KHON2 urn:uuid:6b59dcee-744c-3595-8ca5-96eb712eeaa4 Sat, 04 Oct 2025 07:51:22 +0000 A 57-year-old Puna man has been arrested and charged for allegedly burglarizing a home while nude, County of Hawaiʻi Prosecuting Attorney Kelden Waltjen said. <p>PUNA, Hawaii (KHON2) -- A 57-year-old Puna man has been arrested and charged for allegedly burglarizing a home while nude, County of Hawaiʻi Prosecuting Attorney Kelden Waltjen said.</p> <p>Krzysztof Snarski was arrested on Sept. 29 after police received reports of a nude man armed with knives attempting to break into a home, officials said.</p> <div class="nlp-ignore-block article-content rich-text"> <aside class="promo-link"> <a href="https://www.khon2.com/big-island-news/puna-man-pleads-guilty-to-promoting-child-abuse-sexual-assault-charges/?ipid=promo-link-block1" class="promo-link__link" target=&quot;_blank&quot; > Puna man pleads guilty to promoting child abuse, sexual assault charges </a> </aside> </div> <p>Snarski was subsequently charged with Burglary in the First Degree, Terroristic Threatening in the First Degree, Attempted Assault in the Second Degree, Habitual Property Crime and Sexual Assault in the Fourth Degree, prosecutors said.</p> <p>Burglary in the First Degree, a class B felony, is the most serious offense and carries either a 10-year prison sentence or four years of probation and 18 months in jail, officials said.</p> <p>The remaining charges are class C felonies and carry either a five-year prison sentence or four years of probation and 12 months in jail, prosecutors said.</p> <div class="nlp-ignore-block article-content rich-text"> <h2 class="wp-block-heading has-vivid-red-color has-text-color has-medium-font-size"><strong><a href="https://khon2.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Find more Hawaii, Oahu, Maui and Kauai news here</a></strong></h2> </div> <p>Snarski made his initial court appearance on Oct. 2 and is being held on $113,000 bail.</p> Man accused of planting screws in Makakilo pleads no contest https://www.khon2.com/local-news/man-accused-of-planting-screws-in-makakilo-pleads-no-contest/ KHON2 urn:uuid:2bed14d4-6c3b-5efd-6732-0e8b2da6ae85 Sat, 04 Oct 2025 07:38:15 +0000 A Honolulu man accused of leaving dangerous objects on the road earlier this year has pleaded no contest in court. <p>HONOLULU (KHON2) – A Honolulu man accused of leaving dangerous objects on the road earlier this year has pleaded no contest in court. </p> <div class="nlp-ignore-block article-content rich-text"> <aside class="promo-link"> <a href="https://www.khon2.com/local-news/man-accused-of-planting-screws-on-road-in-makakilo-caught/?ipid=promo-link-block1" class="promo-link__link" target=&quot;_blank&quot; > Man accused of planting screws on road in Makakilo caught </a> </aside> </div> <p>Back in February, George Sado was charged after police said he left glass bottles, nails, and other sharp items on highways in Honolulu. </p> <p>Community members reported the problem on social media, stating that it put drivers, animals, and people at risk.</p> <p>Today, Friday, Oct. 3, Sado entered a no-contest plea to the charge of depositing glass on a highway. The judge gave him a deferral, which means the charge could be cleared from his record if he stays out of trouble for one year.</p> <p>Sado must pay fines, write a public apology in court, and complete 75 hours of community service. He will also have a mental health assessment and treatment if recommended.</p> <div class="nlp-ignore-block article-content rich-text"> <aside class="promo-link"> <a href="https://www.khon2.com/local-news/makakilo-residents-hope-charges-bring-an-end-to-years-of-flat-tires-frustration/?ipid=promo-link-block2" class="promo-link__link" target=&quot;_blank&quot; > Makakilo residents hope charges bring an end to years of flat tires, frustration </a> </aside> </div> <p>If he follows all the rules set by the court, the charge will be dismissed after the one-year deferral period.</p> Hawaii's private property gun ban to be heard by Supreme Court https://www.khon2.com/local-news/hawaiis-private-property-gun-ban-to-be-heard-by-supreme-court/ KHON2 urn:uuid:46b3c70d-8214-1d4c-ce89-4dd647b0846a Sat, 04 Oct 2025 07:32:56 +0000 The U.S. Supreme Court will soon decide the fate of Hawaii's strict gun laws that limit where concealed carry is allowed. <p>HONOLULU (KHON2) -- The U.S. Supreme Court will soon decide the fate of Hawaii's strict gun laws that limit where concealed carry is allowed.</p> <p>KHON2 heard from both sides of the contentious issue.</p> <div class="nlp-ignore-block article-content rich-text"> <aside class="promo-link"> <a href="https://www.khon2.com/news/politics/ap-politics/ap-supreme-court-will-consider-overturning-strict-hawaii-law-regulating-where-people-can-carry-guns/?ipid=promo-link-block1" class="promo-link__link" target=&quot;_blank&quot; > Supreme Court will consider overturning Hawaii’s strict ban on guns on private property </a> </aside> </div> <p>The Court will review Hawaii's 2023 firearms law which bans concealed handguns in many public and private spaces, like beaches, parks and businesses -- unless owners explicitly allow guns.</p> <p>Gun rights advocates said the law makes carrying nearly impossible.</p> <p>"In the rest of the country, businesses are welcome to put up signs that say, 'This is a gun-free zone.' But if you don't, then it's expected that you are able to carry on that property," said Hawaii Rifle Association president Kainoa Kaku.</p> <p>The law's private property rule enforces the ban unless businesses post signs that say 'Guns allowed,' and it has sparked debate in the Islands.<br>Businesses can also post a 'Guns not allowed' sign -- those that do not post anything are considered gun-free zones by default.</p> <div class="nlp-ignore-block article-content rich-text"> <aside class="promo-link"> <a href="https://www.khon2.com/local-news/honolulu-mayor-asks-for-more-regulations-on-new-gun-law/?ipid=promo-link-block2" class="promo-link__link" target=&quot;_blank&quot; > Honolulu mayor asks for more regulations on new gun law </a> </aside> </div> <p>"I've always thought it was a silly thing. It's like saying to a criminal, 'No one is armed here. Please come in and take my stuff.' But you know, what people want to do in their private property is fine with me. But for the State to make it by default, gun-free zone doesn't make any sense and it hasn't existed in the rest of the country," Kaku said.</p> <p>Others argue that the current law respects property owners and Hawaii's culture.</p> <p>"The way Hawaii's law is set up is that, you know, these businesses don't have to do a bunch of extra work to sort of say, 'Hey, we kind of like to keep things as it is. Right now, we're not allowing firearms on our property.' But people can also decide, 'Hey, I do want to allow firearms on my property," said Moms Demand Action Hawaii Chapter co-lead Dr. Elna Nagasako. "I feel like Hawaii has a strong culture of gun safety. Hawaii has the ability, I think, still, to have people come together from all different walks of life and sort of say, 'What makes sense for us here?' And again, doing it within the framework of you know, the Supreme Court decision."</p> <p>The Hawaii Rifle Association says law-abiding gun owners just want to be able to protect themselves in areas where criminals do not pay attention to whatever sign is posted.</p> <div class="nlp-ignore-block article-content rich-text"> <aside class="promo-link"> <a href="https://www.khon2.com/local-news/hawaii-county-passes-sensitive-place-bill-for-guns/?ipid=promo-link-block3" class="promo-link__link" target=&quot;_blank&quot; > Hawaii County passes sensitive place bill for guns </a> </aside> </div> <p>"So I think a culture shift and being able to accept one another and realize that we are on the same side, we just have a different perspective," Kaku said.</p> <p>The Court will hear arguments in winter and a decision is expected by June 2026.</p> Honolulu City Lights moving to Thomas Square https://www.khon2.com/local-news/honolulu-city-lights-moving-to-thomas-square/ KHON2 urn:uuid:69ea7108-a3c3-ac80-6d51-be7f3b297e01 Sat, 04 Oct 2025 07:15:05 +0000 A portion of the Honolulu City Lights displays will move to Thomas Square due to construction at the Fasi Municipal Civic Center Grounds. <p>HONOLULU (KHON2) – A portion of the Honolulu City Lights displays will move to Thomas Square due to construction at the Fasi Municipal Civic Center Grounds.</p> <div class="nlp-ignore-block article-content rich-text"> <aside class="promo-link"> <a href="https://www.khon2.com/local-news/honolulu-city-lights-celebrates-40th-anniversary/?ipid=promo-link-block1" class="promo-link__link" target=&quot;_blank&quot; > Honolulu City Lights celebrates 40th anniversary </a> </aside> </div> <p>City officials stated that the relocation will allow residents and visitors to continue enjoying the annual holiday tradition. </p> <p>The preparations begin Friday, Oct. 3, with decorations centered around the park’s fountain.</p> <p>The move will not impact other parts of the celebration. Honolulu Hale will still feature its signature displays, and the Electric Light Parade will return in December.</p> <p>Thomas Square, the city’s oldest park, will host festive lights, ornaments and holiday decor throughout the season. </p> <div class="nlp-ignore-block article-content rich-text"> <aside class="promo-link"> <a href="https://www.khon2.com/local-news/tree-for-honolulu-city-lights-selected/?ipid=promo-link-block2" class="promo-link__link" target=&quot;_blank&quot; > Tree for Honolulu City Lights selected </a> </aside> </div> <p>Officials encouraged families to visit and enjoy the holiday celebration in its temporary location.</p> ESPN Honolulu hosts its 10th annual sports and food fest https://www.khon2.com/local-news/espn-honolulu-hosts-its-10th-annual-sports-and-food-fest/ KHON2 urn:uuid:0e840747-8e07-7d62-6a32-c06523b85f7a Sat, 04 Oct 2025 07:12:31 +0000 ESPN Honolulu announced the return of its Sports and Food Fest, which will take place Saturday, Oct. 4, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Fort Street Mall. <p>HONOLULU (KHON2) – If you're looking to have a little bit of fun this weekend, the 10th annual ESPN Honolulu sports and food fest has a lot to offer. </p> <p>ESPN Honolulu announced the return of its Sports and Food Fest, which will take place Saturday, Oct. 4, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Fort Street Mall. </p> <div class="nlp-ignore-block article-content rich-text"> <aside class="promo-link"> <a href="https://www.khon2.com/living-808/keiki-kicks-brings-family-fun-and-soccer-skills-to-espn-honolulus-sports-food-fest/amp/?ipid=promo-link-block1" class="promo-link__link" target=&quot;_blank&quot; > Keiki Kicks Brings Family Fun and Soccer Skills to ESPN Honolulu’s Sports &amp; Food Fest </a> </aside> </div> <p>The free event is expected to see more than 4,000 people in Downtown Honolulu. Families will be able to take part in sports clinics, interactive games, and meet-and-greets with University of Hawai‘i athletes.</p> <p>The activities include baseball, football, and soccer clinics, a basketball shootout contest, cornhole tournaments, mini-putt and a human claw machine.</p> <p>UH athletes will also hold autograph sessions throughout the day.</p> <div class="nlp-ignore-block article-content rich-text"> <aside class="promo-link"> <a href="https://www.khon2.com/living-808/espn-honolulu-open-brings-pickleball-to-hawaii/?ipid=promo-link-block2" class="promo-link__link" target=&quot;_blank&quot; > ESPN Honolulu Open Brings Pickleball to Hawaii </a> </aside> </div> <p>More than 30 food and retail vendors will line the area, featuring local favorites such as Hometown BBQ, Tropicold Wai and Monarch Poke.</p> <p>Organizers say the Sports and Food Fest has become one of the city’s most popular community events, bringing together athletics, family fun and local flavors all in one place.</p> KPD: Drug Take Back event set for Lihu'e this month https://www.khon2.com/local-news/kpd-drug-take-back-event-set-for-lihue-this-month/ KHON2 urn:uuid:268c349e-f7a2-87db-0462-3c8838bfec8e Sat, 04 Oct 2025 07:09:55 +0000 The Kauai Police Department and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration will team up to host another drug take-back day. <p>LIHU‘E, Hawai‘i (KHON2) – The Kaua'i Police Department will team with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration in hosting a Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, Oct. 25, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at police headquarters in Līhu'e.</p> <div class="nlp-ignore-block article-content rich-text"> <aside class="promo-link"> <a href="https://www.khon2.com/local-news/kauai-police-department-to-host-drug-take-back-day-on-october-26/?ipid=promo-link-block1" class="promo-link__link" target=&quot;_blank&quot; > Kauai Police Department to host Drug Take Back Day on October 26 </a> </aside> </div> <p>The event gives residents a safe way to get rid of unused, unwanted, or expired medications.</p> <p>The public can drive to the east side of the KPD building on Ka'ana Street and drop off items without leaving their cars.</p> <p>Tablets, capsules, liquids, and patches will be accepted. Needles and syringes will not be collected. The service is free and anonymous.</p> <div class="nlp-ignore-block article-content rich-text"> <aside class="promo-link"> <a href="https://www.khon2.com/local-news/how-to-properly-dispose-of-unwanted-medications-on-your-island/?ipid=promo-link-block2" class="promo-link__link" target=&quot;_blank&quot; > How to properly dispose of unwanted medications on your island </a> </aside> </div> <p>Police say the program helps reduce the risk of prescription drug misuse while also preventing medications from being improperly discarded and harming the environment.</p> <p>At the last event in April, more than 2,500 pounds of medications were collected statewide.</p> <p>Those who can't attend can use a permanent medication dropbox located at the Līhu'e police station.</p> Local Swifties react to launch of 'Life of a Showgirl' https://www.khon2.com/local-news/local-swifties-react-to-launch-of-life-of-a-showgirl/ KHON2 urn:uuid:9bb62859-f9e4-527d-1b5e-ba35e75cbf6e Sat, 04 Oct 2025 05:18:57 +0000 Swifties filled theaters across Hawaiʻi this morning, Oct. 3, for the debut of “Life of a Showgirl,” Taylor Swift’s album launch film. <p>HONOLULU (KHON2) -- Swifties filled theaters across Hawaiʻi this morning, Oct. 3, for the debut of “Life of a Showgirl,” Taylor Swift’s album launch film. </p> <p>KHON2.com went to Ward Consolidated Theaters to get reactions from local Swifties as they embark on another musical journey with their favorite musical artist. </p> <div class="nlp-ignore-block article-content rich-text"> <aside class="promo-link"> <a href="https://www.khon2.com/local-news/glittery-lp-smells-like-sweat-vanilla-swifts-new-album-hits-honolulu-oct-3/?ipid=promo-link-block1" class="promo-link__link" target=&quot;_blank&quot; > Glittery LP smells like sweat, vanilla: Swift’s new album hits Honolulu Oct. 3 </a> </aside> </div> <p>Lorelei Harold said she already played the album twice and wanted to hear Swift speak directly about the songs. </p> <p>“I'm just so excited to experience what she has for us,” she said. Harold, who first heard Swift on the radio as a child, said sitting with other fans to hear commentary is “what being a Swiftie and a fan is all about.”</p> <p>Laila, a visitor from Sydney said the timing worked out perfectly to be able to experience the new album while on holiday in Hawaiʻi. </p> <p>“I couldn't go see it at home,” she said. She has already listened once and hopes to see “a new music video and just see all the inspiration she took from all the new songs.”</p> <p>Ashley Kema said she waited to hear most of the music for the first time in the theater. “I'm a huge Swiftie. I went to the Eras tour. I've been a Taylor Swift fan since I was 16 years old,” she said.</p> <p>When asked why she became a Swifty, Kema said that she "pretty much grew up with her because she's the same age as me. And through the different phases of my life, she's had similar phases of her life; and at this age, I feel like she is such a great role model for women my age, but also for my daughters.</p> <div class="nlp-ignore-block article-content rich-text"> <aside class="promo-link"> <a href="https://www.khon2.com/sandys-suggestions/taylor-swift-is-coming-to-hawai%ca%bbis-consolidated-theaters/?ipid=promo-link-block2" class="promo-link__link" target=&quot;_blank&quot; > Taylor Swift is coming to Hawaiʻi’s Consolidated Theaters! </a> </aside> </div> <p><strong>Music, merch and screenings</strong></p> <p>Consolidated Theaters is running showings statewide through Saturday. Rod Tengan said screens opened as early as 9 a.m. </p> <p>“We're going to have showings as early as 9 a.m. at some locations, but it's going to be playing at all Consolidated Theaters,” he said. Tickets are $12 plus tax, or $15 for Titan Luxe.</p> <p>At Hungry Ear Records in Kakaʻako, collectors lined up for a scented vinyl pressing as local independent record stores have a special edition of the album that major retailers will not have. </p> <p>The special edition features a glittery Portofino orange design LP and comes scented with notes of sweat and vanilla.</p> <p>Manager Jim Williams said, “Life of a Showgirl, available Friday at Hungry Ear, only at independent stores and also on her website only.” The Portofino orange LP has a sweat and vanilla scent and sells for $38.99. CDs with an exclusive poster are $19.99.</p> <p>You can click <strong><a href="https://consolidatedtheatres.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a></strong> for more information on Life of Showgirl launch party showing at Consolidated Theaters across Hawaiʻi. You can click <strong><a href="https://hungryear.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a></strong> to access more information on Hungry Ear Records. </p> <p>Williams said the release arrived with little warning. “It was a last minute, even for the stores themselves,” he said. The shop opens at 10 a.m. and is first come, first served.</p> HART files eminent domain for Servco Pacific property in Kakaako https://www.khon2.com/local-news/hart-files-eminent-domain-for-servco-pacific-property-in-kakaako/ KHON2 urn:uuid:87c90e77-291c-4f0f-d3ee-047b92432354 Sat, 04 Oct 2025 05:16:49 +0000 Eminent domain proceedings have started for HART's Skyline to take over about a half acre in Kakaako. That leaves the business owner - and its customers - in limbo. <p>HONOLULU (KHON2) -- Eminent domain proceedings have started for HART's Skyline to take over about a half-acre in Kakaako. That leaves the business owner—and its customers—in limbo.</p> <p>Preliminary roadwork is already underway on Halekauwila Street for Skyline's Civic Center stop. It's right next to Servco Pacific's Kakaako Service Center. The work will soon be on Servco's property.</p> <div class="nlp-ignore-block article-content rich-text"> <aside class="promo-link"> <a href="https://www.khon2.com/local-news/downtown-honolulu-rail-construction-5-years-is-a-long-time/?ipid=promo-link-block1" class="promo-link__link" target=&quot;_blank&quot; > Downtown Honolulu Rail construction: ‘5 years is a long time’ </a> </aside> </div> <p>Skyline needs a temporary easement for construction, and two permanent easements, for a support pillar and for the actual station itself.</p> <p>"All we ask is that we be able to collaborate, negotiate in good faith, without the threat of a gun to our head, held by HART, who we are trying to partner with," said Peter Dames, Servco Pacific Inc. President &amp; CEO, at HART's last Board of Directors meeting in August.</p> <p>"I'm always working towards coming to a reasonable agreement that is acceptable to the owner and HART," said Krista Lunzer, HART Director of Transit Property Acquisition &amp; Relocation at that same meeting. "I will continue with this owner, and I'm hoping that we'll have a settlement before we need to come back and file anything. Or ask for approval to file."</p> <p>That HART meeting was on Aug. 22. HART filed to condemn the property a week later. It says it needs to start that process because any delay could cause a delay in construction.</p> <p>Servco says it was willing to negotiate but lost trust after HART barely communicated over 10 years of knowing land would be needed for Skyline. And then saying it needed 21,000 square feet - 4 times as much as originally planned.</p> <div class="nlp-ignore-block article-content rich-text"> <aside class="promo-link"> <a href="https://www.khon2.com/local-news/servco-pacific-recognized-6x-for-outstanding-management/?ipid=promo-link-block2" class="promo-link__link" target=&quot;_blank&quot; > Servco Pacific recognized 6x for outstanding management </a> </aside> </div> <p>That land is currently where Servco's service bays sit. They say losing it would be a "mortal wound".</p> <p>Servco has not officially stated what its plans are for the future of this location. If it were to close, some customers say they'll just go with the flow. Others say it'd be a huge inconvenience. One gentleman we spoke with says he actually walks home while waiting for his car to be serviced. Servco Toyota's next nearest location is Mapunapuna.</p> <p>"Well they do have several locations, this one happens to be the closest where I am, so I guess I'll have to go to another location," said Sam Ning, customer.</p> <p>HART says it needs to start work on the Servco site in January for development and construction. HART would not comment due to the litigation. Servco hasn't responded to our request for comment.</p> Waikīkī bank robbery suspect charged with robbery https://www.khon2.com/hawaii-crime/waikiki-bank-robbery-suspect-charged-with-robbery/ KHON2 urn:uuid:ed114999-e9ff-b440-8438-6dddc79dfade Sat, 04 Oct 2025 04:41:19 +0000 The 66-year-old man accused of robbing a Waikīkī bank and releasing a noxious substance onto the bank's occupants has been charged with Robbery in the Second Degree, the Honolulu Police Department said. <p>HONOLULU (KHON2) -- The 66-year-old man accused of robbing a Waikīkī bank and releasing a noxious substance onto the bank's occupants made his first court appearance on Oct. 23. </p> <div class="nlp-ignore-block article-content rich-text"> <aside class="promo-link"> <a href="https://www.khon2.com/hawaii-crime/ems-unknown-substance-released-inside-waikiki-bank-multiple-patients-treated/?ipid=promo-link-block1" class="promo-link__link" target=&quot;_blank&quot; > Chemical dispersed during Waikiki bank robbery </a> </aside> </div> <p>Court documents stated the suspect, Charles Christian, had entered the bank on Sept. 29 at approximately 2 p.m.</p> <p>Upon his arrival, he was greeted by the bank's concierge, who had escorted him to a window with a bank teller.</p> <p>The documents added that Christian had slipped a note to the teller saying, "I need money, $50 $100. I don't want to hurt you."</p> <p>The bank teller then dispensed money for Christian, to his disappointment. The teller then said she went to the back to ask for help from her supervisor, who instructed her to call the authorities.</p> <p>Once the teller returned to her window, she said that she did not see Christian at the window. Instead, she saw him leaving the building, spraying an unknown chemical into the bank lobby from a canister.</p> <div class="nlp-ignore-block article-content rich-text"> <aside class="promo-link"> <a href="https://www.khon2.com/hawaii-crime/man-66-arrested-in-connection-to-robbery-at-waikiki-bank/?ipid=promo-link-block2" class="promo-link__link" target=&quot;_blank&quot; > Man, 66, arrested in connection to Waikiki bank robbery </a> </aside> </div> <p>The teller said that she had begun to experience an irritation from the chemical, causing her to cough, before she evacuated to another room.</p> <p>Court documents showed that the bank's concierge shared a similar recount of the story. Documents said that when the concierge welcomed Christian into the bank, she noted that he was wearing medical gloves.</p> <p>After the concierge escorted Christian to the window and his alleged interaction with the teller, the concierge said that she and the customer she was assisting began to cough and experience a burning sensation.</p> <p>Video surveillance obtained by authorities backs up the witnesses' stories. Authorities were also able to obtain still-shot images of the suspect during the incident.</p> <p>On Sept. 30, HPD had received an alert from the FBI that shortly before 4 p.m. on that day, a man who identified himself as Christian had turned himself in at their building.</p> <p>Court documents said that he had confessed to the crime after he experienced guilt regarding the incident.</p> <div class="nlp-ignore-block article-content rich-text"> <aside class="promo-link"> <a href="https://www.khon2.com/hawaii-crime/suspect-involved-in-attempted-waikiki-bank-robbery-charged-100k-bail-set/?ipid=promo-link-block3" class="promo-link__link" target=&quot;_blank&quot; > Suspect involved in attempted Waikiki bank robbery charged; $100k bail set </a> </aside> </div> <p>"Christian told [authorities] that he had seen the news about how 18 people had been injured from his OC spray and he felt bad about it and wanted to turn himself in," the documents said.</p> <p>Christian also said that he had hidden the canister, alleged to contain the OC spray, in a tree near the FBI building. Out of an abundance of caution, a bomb technician recovered the canister to verify that it was not explosive material.</p> <p>That canister was later positively identified as the one used in the video.</p> <p>HPD officers who responded to the initial incident positively identified Christian as the suspect in the video and arrested him, the document said.</p> <p>Christian was then charged with Robbery in the Second Degree on Oct. 2, and is being held on $100,000 bail. </p> Lanakila Pacifc employment services: Getting disabled jobs https://www.khon2.com/local-news/lanakila-pacifc-employment-services-getting-disabled-jobs/ KHON2 urn:uuid:0f77006f-c330-3a1c-6b4a-00cc40523be7 Sat, 04 Oct 2025 04:37:36 +0000 October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month, and one local nonprofit group, Lanakila Pacific, has been working for years to help those with disabilities find a place in the workforce. <p>HONOLULU (KHON2) -- October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month, and one local nonprofit group, Lanakila Pacific, has been working for years to help those with disabilities find a place in the workforce.</p> <p>"It's anyone that has a cognitive or physical impairment or something that might be a challenge that might get in their way," said David Comfort, Employment Services manager on what defines someone with a disability. "Sometimes it's just a little bit of coaching or a little bit of resume work."</p> <p>Comfort and his team work with those with disabilities by training them on interview and presentation skills, as well as helping them gain the skills they need to be successful in a job.</p> <p>When asked about the importance of getting the disabled into the workforce, Comfort had a thorough response.</p> <div class="nlp-ignore-block article-content rich-text"> <aside class="promo-link"> <a href="https://www.khon2.com/wake-up-2day/lanakila-pacific-celebrates-85-years/?ipid=promo-link-block1" class="promo-link__link" target=&quot;_blank&quot; > Lanakila Pacific celebrates 85 years </a> </aside> </div> <p>"Five, six year ago, I would have answered this question different. Like... it's important for the disabled to be a part of the community and to buy into all of our population blah blah blah," said Comfort, saying now he knows the answer is a bit different. "It's really about the employers knowing that they can actually hire an asset. That these individuals have the tools it takes to help your company, and really bring something to the table for your company.</p> <p>Graduates from the Lanakila program are introduced to one of the company's dozens of partners island wide. There, they get the opportunity to work for a period of time before deciding if they continue permanently.</p> <p>With the news of the federal government shutdown, Lanakila Pacific has been left in a slight state of uncertainty, though not without uncertainty.</p> <p>"There are some nuances to the full payment that we're trying to negotiate right now," said Lanakila Pacific president and CEO Rona Yagi Fukumoto. "We have not been significantly affected by the shutdown, but we waiting to see what the actual impact will be."</p> <p>However Fukamoto says that a lot of their funding comes from contracts that remain in place, which are considered essential in "most situations."</p> <p>The employment services program will continue their work of getting their participants into the workforce, which in some cases means internally.</p> <p>"Through the training program helped me gain more job skills and more communication skills," said Bryant Bolosan, 35-year old program graduate. "Also led me to where I am as a Lanakila Pacific Assistant."</p> <div class="nlp-ignore-block article-content rich-text"> <aside class="promo-link"> <a href="https://www.khon2.com/video/kupuna-life-lanakila-meals-on-wheels-celebrates-50-years-of-helping-seniors-on-oahu/7162423/?ipid=promo-link-block2" class="promo-link__link" target=&quot;_blank&quot; > Kupuna Life: Lanakila Meals on Wheels celebrates 50 years of helping seniors on Oahu </a> </aside> </div> <p>"Tis is actually my first job, so I've never really worked anywhere else," said Taylan Texeira, supervisor at one of Lanakila Pacific's divisions. "It's made it easier for me to get employment."</p> <p>"I was a cashier when I first joined, and I got introduced to David (Comfort)," said Mahina Ikemoto, who now works as a job coach for Lanakila Pacific.</p> <p>Ikemoto now coaches people who were once in her own shoes, giving the advice that she was once given.</p> <p>"The stronger they believe in themselves, the more likely they are to get hired because their confidence - they're radiating. It's just going to radiate off them," said Ikemoto on what she tells the people she coaches.</p> <p>The Employment Services team has helped over 150 people with disabilities. There are currently 121 participants in 2025 are currently gaining hands on workplace experience and income.</p> Hawaii Healthcare Shakeup? HMSA and HPH Explore New Partnership https://www.khon2.com/local-news/hawaii-healthcare-shakeup-hmsa-and-hph-explore-new-partnership/ KHON2 urn:uuid:48282e8c-5dd2-f069-8faf-07a0cedf447f Sat, 04 Oct 2025 04:35:40 +0000 Hawaii Pacific Health, which operates four hospitals and several clinics statewide, says it has agreed to pursue discussions with HMSA, Hawaii's largest health insurer. <p>HONOLULU (KHON2) -- Health care in Hawaii could be in for some significant changes.</p> <p>Hawaii Pacific Health, which operates four hospitals and several clinics statewide, says it has agreed to pursue discussions with HMSA, Hawaii's largest health insurer. </p> <div class="nlp-ignore-block article-content rich-text"> <aside class="promo-link"> <a href="https://www.khon2.com/living-808/hmsa-offers-guidance-on-medicare-medicaid-and-dual-care-plans/?ipid=promo-link-block1" class="promo-link__link" target=&quot;_blank&quot; > HMSA Offers Guidance on Medicare, Medicaid, and Dual Care Plans </a> </aside> </div> <p>In separate statements, both groups say the goal is to deliver more affordable coverage and better coordinated care. </p> <p>Their statement read "Hawaii Pacific Health (HPH) recognizes that health care, across the country, is becoming unaffordable and complicated. In Hawai'i, these challenges are magnified by our remote location and high cost of living. In an effort to better serve the needs of our patients, HPH has agreed to pursue discussions and explore ways to work with HMSA to deliver more affordable coverage and better coordinated care."</p> <p>HMSA echoed the concern about rising costs. </p> <p>"As HMSA is always exploring solutions to make health care more affordable, we are looking at new possibilities with Hawaii Pacific Health (HPH) to provide more affordable coverage and increase access to quality care," said Christine Hirasa, Vice President, Communications, HMSA in a statement.<br><br>"I think we are in something of a crisis. I do believe that the cost of healthcare continues to escalate at a price tag that becomes harder and harder for both employers and the employees to bear. And the question of whether or not a change like this would be beneficial or not certainly would be of interest to everybody," said Randy Perreira, HGEA Executive Director, which has union members at several HPH hospitals.</p> <div class="nlp-ignore-block article-content rich-text"> <aside class="promo-link"> <a href="https://www.khon2.com/local-news/nitta-vs-hmsa-ruling-could-mean-better-access-to-medical-care/?ipid=promo-link-block2" class="promo-link__link" target=&quot;_blank&quot; > ‘Nitta vs HMSA’ ruling could mean better access to medical care </a> </aside> </div> <p>This is not the first time this idea of a merger has been proposed. However, the possibility is raising eyebrows because the model sounds similar to Kaiser Permanente, which combines insurer and provider under one umbrella. </p> <p>The Hawaii Nurses Association says it has questions on how such a system would affect patient care and working conditions. </p> <p>"Whenever you have two big superpowers that get together, how does it affect us? How does it affect the community?," said Roseall Agas-Yuu, president of the Hawaii Nurses Association. "As you know, I have a lot of members in different hospitals. I have the ones here at Kapiolani, but I have at Queens as well. Are they going to be affected? Their family?"</p> <p>While a consolidation could theoretically improve financial stability for the organizations and create greater access and coordinated care, and streamline administrative processes, it could also reduce competition which could lead to higher prices. </p> <p>In a statement, Queens Health Systems said, "a merger of this scale could significantly reduce competition in both insurance and care delivery, and negatively impact patient access, consumer choice and cost of care, especially for vulnerable populations. We will continue to share our concerns on this possible merger as more details become available. For Queen’s, the health and well-being of Hawaii’s people will always remain the highest priority."</p> <div class="nlp-ignore-block article-content rich-text"> <aside class="promo-link"> <a href="https://www.khon2.com/living-808/hmsa-serves-hawai%CA%BBi-residents-for-85-years/?ipid=promo-link-block3" class="promo-link__link" target=&quot;_blank&quot; > HMSA serves Hawaiʻi Residents for 85 Years </a> </aside> </div> <p>Right now, neither side is saying what this partnership would look like or when any decision would be made. What we do know is that discussions are underway and no doubt, lawmakers, unions and regulators would weigh in, if the groups move toward any formal agreement. </p> Hawaii holds off Cal State Bakersfield in 4 sets https://www.staradvertiser.com/2025/10/03/sports/sports-breaking/hawaii-holds-off-cal-state-bakersfield-in-4-sets/ Honolulu Star-Advertiser urn:uuid:f056ae79-d364-0de1-b53c-c21a4604aa99 Sat, 04 Oct 2025 03:47:00 +0000 <p>Three Hawaii players finished in double figures in kills, led by sophomore Adrianna Arquette, who recorded another triple-double in a 25-20, 25-23, 18-25, 25-17 win over Cal State Bakersfield today at the Icardo Center in Bakersfield, Calif.</p> Large fire hits Chevron’s L.A. refinery, disrupting California’s fuel supply https://www.staradvertiser.com/2025/10/03/breaking-news/large-fire-hits-chevrons-l-a-refinery-disrupting-californias-fuel-supply/ Honolulu Star-Advertiser urn:uuid:a405fec6-b35d-e502-8dc5-2726002a4384 Sat, 04 Oct 2025 03:43:00 +0000 <p>Chevron&#8217;s 285,000-barrel-a-day El Segundo refinery in southern California had taken multiple units offline on Friday after a large fire erupted in a jet fuel production unit, disrupting supply in the Golden State&#8217;s isolated energy market.</p> Maui County Fair returns for first time in six years https://www.khon2.com/maui-news/maui-county-fair-returns-for-first-time-in-six-years/ KHON2 urn:uuid:e4973a63-3471-9b51-693b-88bce1b2429a Fri, 03 Oct 2025 23:58:54 +0000 The 98th Maui County Fair has begun, making its return after a long six-year hiatus. <p>MAUI (KHON2) -- The 98th Maui County Fair has begun, making its return after a long six-year hiatus.</p> <p>This makes this year's fair a little extra special.</p> <div class="nlp-ignore-block article-content rich-text"> <aside class="promo-link"> <a href="https://www.khon2.com/top-stories/new-king-kamehameha-iii-elementary-school-location-decided/?ipid=promo-link-block1" class="promo-link__link" target=&quot;_blank&quot; > New King Kamehameha III Elementary School location decided </a> </aside> </div> <p>"It's almost like a beacon of hope, that we can move forward together," said Daryl Fujiwara, Maui County Fair Director. "That we're going to be able to gather together safely and see each other. I feel like that's going to be huge for Maui."</p> <p>The six-year hiatus came from a variety of different issues, but both the pandemic and the wildfires in Lahaina and Kula played a part.</p> <p>"It puts so much stress on our economy, on our people, that it just wasn't possible," said Fujiwara.</p> <p>During the hiatus, the nonprofit Maui Fair Alliance, which was in charge of organizing the fair, dissolved, leaving the status of the fair up in the air.</p> <p>But thankfully, Fujiwara was recruited after he coordinated several wildfire memorial services, which he used as inspiration while organizing the fair.</p> <p>"While we were doing the memorial, I actually saw people healing in real life, it was kind of crazy," said Fujiwara. "Aunties and uncles were checking on nieces and nephews, and when they saw each other face to face, I saw that magic that happened in their healing. Just being able to see our friends and family face to face again is what I feel like really helped to expedite some of the healing and the moving forward rate."</p> <p>"It's almost like a beacon of hope, that we can move forward together," Fujiwara continued, "That we're going to be able to gather together safely and see each other. So I feel like that's going to be huge for Maui."</p> <div class="nlp-ignore-block article-content rich-text"> <aside class="promo-link"> <a href="https://www.khon2.com/maui-news/plans-ready-to-move-stretch-of-honoapiilani-highway-away-from-water/?ipid=promo-link-block2" class="promo-link__link" target=&quot;_blank&quot; > Plans ready to move stretch of Honoapiilani Highway away from water </a> </aside> </div> <p>In addition to carnival rides from EK Fernandez, this year's fair will include a few new things, such as an E-Sports and Multimedia competition for youth, and boat rides and shuttle services for Lanai and Molokai residents.</p> <p>The first day of the fair's epic return proved to be successful, with approximately 30,000 patrons attending opening night. More than 3,000 individuals participated in the parade.</p> <p>Officials say to be mindful of the fairgrounds' three points of entry: Kanaloa Avenue, War Memorial stadium and Baldwin High School. Using all points of entry will help reduce congestion.</p> <p>Organizers also say to be aware of red ants on the fairgrounds, which is common throughout Maui County. Crews are working on treating the grounds for the bugs.</p> <p>The fair runs through Sunday at the War Memorial Complex in Wailuku. You can get tickets with cash only at the gate.</p> Asahi beers running out in Japan amid cyberattack shutdown https://www.staradvertiser.com/2025/10/03/breaking-news/asahi-beers-running-out-in-japan-amid-cyberattack-shutdown/ Honolulu Star-Advertiser urn:uuid:207a0459-c27a-302f-5e19-698597f284c0 Fri, 03 Oct 2025 23:50:00 +0000 <p>TOKYO >> Japanese restaurants, bars and stores are running low on beer and other beverages from industry leader Asahi Group as the impact from a cyberattack entered a fifth day on Friday, with no resolution in sight.</p> Hamas agrees to release hostages; Trump says Israel must stop bombing https://www.staradvertiser.com/2025/10/03/breaking-news/hamas-agrees-to-release-hostages-trump-says-israel-must-stop-bombing/ Honolulu Star-Advertiser urn:uuid:53dd9859-8541-6a7a-8ca1-35a0f687a0bf Fri, 03 Oct 2025 23:14:00 +0000 <p>President Donald Trump told Israel today to immediately stop bombing Gaza after Hamas agreed to release hostages and some other terms in a U.S. plan to end the war, but vexing issues like disarmament appeared unresolved.</p> Walk to mental health goals with NAMIWalks this year on every island https://www.khon2.com/wake-up-2day/walk-to-mental-health-goals-with-namiwalks-this-year-on-every-island/ KHON2 urn:uuid:bf9043aa-24fd-9f9f-80e2-7de158a9d947 Fri, 03 Oct 2025 23:09:54 +0000 HONOLULU (KHON2) -- Mental Health is something that more and more people are taking seriously across Hawaii and the country. There's a great opportunity coming up to support free programs for those who need it. NAMIWalks is the largest mental health walk in the both the U.S. and Hawaii. Organizers say it is about breaking [...] <p>HONOLULU (KHON2) -- Mental Health is something that more and more people are taking seriously across Hawaii and the country. There's a great opportunity coming up to support free programs for those who need it.</p> <p>NAMIWalks is the largest mental health walk in the both the U.S. and Hawaii. Organizers say it is about breaking the stigma around mental health and showing support for all who are impacted. The event is free and open to everyone – whether you walk or just join in the fun.</p> <div class="nlp-ignore-block article-content rich-text"> <aside class="promo-link"> <a href="https://www.khon2.com/local-news/hpd-takes-action-to-deal-with-o%ca%bbahus-mental-health-crisis/?ipid=promo-link-block1" class="promo-link__link" target=&quot;_blank&quot; > HPD takes action to deal with Oʻahu’s mental health crisis </a> </aside> </div> <p>They have an option for 1k walk, 5k walk or even a virtual walk. They will have activities for keiki up to kupuna, free registration, free games, wellness tent where people can sample activities on mental and physical wellness, food, music and fun.</p> <p>It's happening Saturday, Oct. 11, 2025, on Oahu at the Honolulu Hale Civic Grounds. They also have walks on Kauai, Molokai, Lanai, Maui and Hilo. You can <a href="http://namihawaii.org/walk">check out their website</a> for more info. The walk starts at 9 a.m., but activities start at 8 a.m.</p> The Savellano's Lechon brings on a crunch that packs a punch https://www.khon2.com/wake-up-2day/food-2go/the-savellanos-lechon-brings-on-a-crunch-that-packs-a-punch/ KHON2 urn:uuid:b3a011fe-2579-14ce-0054-b4d71329f7eb Fri, 03 Oct 2025 23:09:30 +0000 Customers rave that it’s so flavorful, there’s “no need sauce.” <p>HONOLULU (KHON2) -- What started as a small family tradition during the pandemic has now grown into one of Oahu’s hottest food pop-ups. </p> <p>Savellano’s Lechon, LLC officially launched in January 2023 in Ewa Beach, and now they are popping up across the island, bringing authentic Filipino-style crispy pork belly to the community.</p> <p>The business idea came from husband-and-wife duo Albert and Eloisa Savellano. </p> <p>Chef Albert perfected the art of slow-roasting pork belly over a direct flame, creating the signature crackling skin and juicy, flavorful meat. Eloisa, with her background in multimedia marketing, helped brand and grow the company into what it is today.</p> <p>The hero product, their crispy lechon pork belly, is marinated with garlic, pepper, shallots, lemongrass and a special Savellano family seasoning. Customers rave that it’s so flavorful, there’s “no need sauce.” Their plates keep it simple and satisfying:</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li><strong>Plate A</strong> – Lechon + Rice</li> <li><strong>Plate B</strong> – Lechon + Rice + Pancit Bihon</li> <li><strong>Plate C</strong> – Lechon + Rice + Cajun Butter Garlic Shrimp<br>Every plate comes with a complimentary lumpiang shanghai.</li> </ul> <p>Savellano’s first entered the scene with preorders for whole lechon rolls, but quickly expanded into night markets islandwide. Their official pop-up debut happened in February 2025 at the Ono Grindz and Makeke Night Market in Wai Kai, Ewa Beach.</p> <p>Now, fans can find them at <strong>weekly and monthly pop-ups</strong> across Oʻahu, including:</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li><strong>Every Thursday</strong> – Ono Grindz and Makeke Night Market, Wai Kai, Ewa Beach</li> <li><strong>Every 3rd Friday</strong> – What The Truck?! Night Market, Waikele Center, Waipahu</li> <li>Plus rotating spots at Taste of Aloha (Honolulu), Bayview Night Market (Kāneʻohe), New Wave (Kapolei), and Pearl at Kalauao (ʻAiea).</li> </ul> <p>They’ll also be featured at big upcoming events like <strong>Flavors of Aloha (Oct. 11, Waikīkī)</strong>, <strong>Boos &amp; Brews (Oct. 31, Bishop Museum)</strong> and <strong>Pupus and Brews (Nov. 1, Wai Kai, Ewa Beach)</strong>.</p> <p>For the Savellanos, it’s about more than food. It’s about carrying on a family legacy!</p> <p>Follow Savellano’s Lechon on Instagram <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thesavellanos_lechon">@thesavellanos_lechon</a> or on Facebook for the latest pop-up dates and preorder opportunities.</p> 12% of Hawaiʻi's workforce employed by non-profits as $400M in federal funding is cut https://www.khon2.com/local-news/12-of-hawai%ca%bbis-workforce-employed-by-non-profits-as-400m-in-federal-funding-is-cut/ KHON2 urn:uuid:04912faa-22a4-11a9-ee82-5644ae623305 Fri, 03 Oct 2025 23:08:15 +0000 Hawaiʻi’s nonprofit sector employs about 12% of the state’s workforce and relies heavily on federal funding to provide critical service. <p>HONOLULU (KHON2) -- Hawaiʻi’s nonprofit sector employs about 12% of the state’s workforce and relies heavily on federal funding to provide critical services, according to Justina Acevedo Kross, senior director of community strategy at the Hawaii Community Foundation. </p> <p>The sector now faces the loss of nearly $400 million in federal support.</p> <p>“The bigger impact is going to happen at the beginning of fiscal year or the beginning of 2027,” Acevedo-Cross said. She noted the timing gives the community some opportunity to respond </p> <p>She described how essential services could be at risk, including shelter, food programs, public health programs, child welfare and domestic violence support. </p> <p>“These are, things that you would think about, like our immediate social safety net, shelter, food, public health programs and things like child welfare or domestic violence support," Acevedo-Cross explained. "So, those are some of the things that we are seeing really being potentially impacted and already are impacted, including things like staff furloughs."</p> <p>She went on to discuss the point of fact that nonprofits in Hawaiʻi extend government services and philanthropy efforts.</p> <p>“Those services that are nonprofit partners are doing are sometimes extensions of what the government can't do alone or what, say, philanthropy can't do alone or business can't do alone,” she said, citing support for kupuna, keiki and other community members, including meal programs and childcare.</p> <p>As a result, the Hawaii Community Foundation has embarked on a bold move through their Community Resilience Fund to support not only the services provided but also the households who depend on non-profit employment to sustain Hawaiʻi's economy. </p> <p>“We actually have to look much more locally. So, what can we do together as philanthropy, as local government, as businesses, so that we can respond together,” Acevedo-Cross said as she emphasized collaboration with nonprofit leaders (00:04:12).</p> <p>Acevedo-Cross said the foundation’s approach builds on lessons from past emergencies that have had the benefit of beefing up Hawaiʻi's response to economic troubles. </p> <p>“That kind of adaptability is like a core trait in the nonprofit sector,” she said. She made reference to nonprofits’ response to the Maui wildfires and the COVID-19 pandemic.</p> <p>Community engagement is central to the foundation’s strategy, and residents can help by volunteering their time and expertise or by giving financial support to the Hawaiʻi Resilience Fund. </p> <p>“All residents in Hawaiʻi, all of us together can contribute in some way, whether that's your time volunteering or your talents or also financial contributions. All of that is needed right now,” explained Acevedo Kross. She added that contributions preserve the workforce, institutional knowledge and expertise that underpin Hawaiʻi’s social safety net.</p> <p>The economic backdrop remains challenging, according to UHERO economists who provided more details on what the aftermath of funding cuts may look like as the state attempts to mitigate federal funding cuts. </p> <p>“The state is also in a reasonably good position in terms of, the financial situation in the state with a large balance in the rainy-day fund that they can try to tap to hopefully support the most vulnerable households,” said UHERO Executive Director, Carl Bonham. </p> <p>Bonham likened it to how the state mobilized recovery in post-pandemic and Maui wildfire times but acknowledged that this will be done without federal cash infusion.</p> <p>Acevedo-Cross said the goal is to use the next six months to secure more resources for nonprofits. </p> <p>“We're really looking at like, how can we use this next six-month window to activate, more funds for our nonprofit sector?” </p> <p>For more information the Resilience Fund, visit HCF’s&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.hawaiicommunityfoundation.org/hawaiiresiliencefund" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">website</a></strong>.</p> <div class="nlp-ignore-block article-content rich-text"> <p><a href="https://www.khon2.com/khon-2go/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Get news on the go with <strong>KHON 2GO</strong>, KHON's morning podcast, every morning at 8</a></p> </div> <p>By combining community effort with strategic planning, the UHERO and HCF intend to find a way around the worst of what these federal funding cuts could inflict on Hawaiʻi’s nonprofit sector and the communities they serve and employ.</p> Dow, S&P 500 manage record closing highs; Nasdaq falls https://www.staradvertiser.com/2025/10/03/breaking-news/dow-s-nasdaq-falls/ Honolulu Star-Advertiser urn:uuid:2a7717cb-2cca-3b50-eeeb-132c467775cc Fri, 03 Oct 2025 23:00:00 +0000 <p>NEW YORK >> The S&#038;P 500 eked out a record closing high in a volatile session today, with interest rate-cut expectations holding up as the U.S. government shutdown went on for a third day.</p> Police: Knife-wielding, naked man breaks into Hawaii island home https://www.staradvertiser.com/2025/10/03/breaking-news/police-knife-wielding-naked-man-breaks-into-hawaii-island-home/ Honolulu Star-Advertiser urn:uuid:2d052711-02cb-2315-d0ac-f65c149afca1 Fri, 03 Oct 2025 22:32:00 +0000 <p>A 57-year-old Pahoa man accused of trying to break into a Nanawale Estates subdivision home while naked and armed with a knife will receive a mental examination.</p> Political analyst says Hawaii will see major impacts from shutdown https://www.khon2.com/wake-up-2day/political-analyst-says-hawaii-will-see-major-impacts-from-shutdown/ KHON2 urn:uuid:a33a6c74-567d-e235-587d-dee51a71e495 Fri, 03 Oct 2025 22:05:29 +0000 "I think the bottom line is Republicans have been after for this for a long time, it's the last Obama legacy that I think they want to put to rest, and I do think it would be significant." <p>HONOLULU (KHON2) -- Another vote to reopen the federal government failed on Friday, and a local expert thinks Hawaii will see serious consequences. </p> <div class="nlp-ignore-block article-content rich-text"> <aside class="promo-link"> <a href="https://www.khon2.com/local-news/shutdown-day-two-nonprofits-brace-for-impact-services-at-risk/?ipid=promo-link-block1" class="promo-link__link" target=&quot;_blank&quot; > OCT. 2 -- Shutdown day two: Nonprofits brace for impact, services at risk </a> </aside> </div> <p>"Absolutely, and they will be major. Non-profits huge hits, social services, huge hits," political analyst and Hawaii Pacific University professor Dr. John Hart said. "These are both subsidized by the federal government, and I think people need to remember that we have a disproportionate number of federal employees in Hawaii compared to any other state. So we will be hit. The huge issue is going to be how long does the shutdown last and will Trump go through with his threats to make many of the cuts in term of staffing for social programs, permanent?"</p> <p>It's now day three of the shutdown, and Republicans once again did not gain enough democratic support to pass their temporary spending bill to break the Democratic filibuster.</p> <p>Democrats said they're fighting for health care and to extend tax credits that were boosted during the COVID-19 pandemic for health care plans under the Affordable Care Act.</p> <p>"I think the bottom line is Republicans have been after for this for a long time, it's the last Obama legacy that I think they want to put to rest, and I do think it would be significant. I think most people do understand this, that's why the Democrats have decided this is where they're going to draw the line in the sand," Dr. Hart added.</p> <div class="nlp-ignore-block article-content rich-text"> <aside class="promo-link"> <a href="https://www.khon2.com/local-news/day-one-shutdown-fallout-visitors-families-feel-impact/?ipid=promo-link-block1?ipid=promo-link-block2" class="promo-link__link" target=&quot;_blank&quot; > OCT. 1 -- Day one shutdown fallout: Visitors, families feel impact </a> </aside> </div> <p>Meanwhile, Republicans are holding firm on their House-passed bill, and President Trump is vowing to slash the federal workforce and programs, and hold back funding from democratically governed areas of the country.</p> <p>"Republicans are trying to get through the vote; it's a democratic filibuster," Dr. Hart said. "That is true, but at the same time, for one party to convince everyone that this shutdown isn't on them when they control the presidency, the house, the senate, and the courts is pretty good politics.'</p> <p>No votes are scheduled until Monday.</p> Review: On ‘Showgirl,’ Taylor Swift has a lust for love (and her foes) https://www.staradvertiser.com/2025/10/03/news/review-on-showgirl-taylor-swift-has-a-lust-for-love-and-her-foes/ Honolulu Star-Advertiser urn:uuid:853af55c-2470-b177-4241-1487c0ce2bce Fri, 03 Oct 2025 21:52:00 +0000 <p>For a sense of what&#8217;s been animating Taylor Swift lately, fast forward to a pair of sprightly, winky, sweaty songs in the second half of her new album, &#8220;The Life of a Showgirl.&#8221;</p> Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs sentenced to more than 4 years in prison https://www.staradvertiser.com/2025/10/03/breaking-news/sean-diddy-combs-sentenced-to-more-than-4-years-in-prison/ Honolulu Star-Advertiser urn:uuid:a7b25ab1-faff-59f4-0669-0aebbb7dcd9e Fri, 03 Oct 2025 21:20:00 +0000 <p>NEW YORK >> Sean &#8220;Diddy&#8221; Combs was sentenced today to more than four years in prison over the hip-hop mogul&#8217;s July 2 conviction on prostitution-related charges.</p> Kaiser workers deliver notice of 5-day strike in mid-October https://www.staradvertiser.com/2025/10/03/breaking-news/kaiser-workers-deliver-notice-of-5-day-strike-in-mid-october/ Honolulu Star-Advertiser urn:uuid:e6876d78-826f-0c9f-1925-5d425bcf8e7f Fri, 03 Oct 2025 20:40:00 +0000 <p>Unions representing health care workers this morning delivered notice to Kaiser Permanente of a 5-day strike to begin Oct. 14.</p> The Latest: Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs is being sentenced https://www.khon2.com/top-stories/ap-top-headlines/ap-the-latest-sean-diddy-combs-to-appear-in-court-for-sentencing/ KHON2 urn:uuid:e8493460-a6e7-4818-cd28-c8dda99f7924 Fri, 03 Oct 2025 20:09:48 +0000 NEW YORK (AP) — Sean “Diddy” Combs was back in court for his sentencing Friday in a sordid criminal case that could keep him locked up for years. The hip-hop mogul was convicted in July of flying people around the country for sexual encounters, including his girlfriends and male sex workers. A jury acquitted Combs, [...] <p>NEW YORK (AP) — Sean “Diddy” Combs was back in court for his sentencing Friday in a sordid criminal case that could keep him locked up for years. The hip-hop mogul was convicted in July of flying people around the country for sexual encounters, including his girlfriends and male sex workers. A jury acquitted Combs, 55, of more serious racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking charges that could have put him away for life. </p> <p>Combs wrote U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian asking for mercy and proclaiming himself “reborn” after realizing that he was “broken to my core.” Combs will be sentenced under the Mann Act, which makes it illegal to transport someone across state lines for the purpose of prostitution or other illegal sex acts. Prosecutors urged the judge to reject leniency, saying witnesses fear for their safety if he is freed.</p> <p>Prosecutors say he should spend more than 11 years in prison for his conviction on two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution. Combs’ lawyers want him freed now, saying the long sentence sought by prosecutors is “wildly out of proportion” to the crime.</p> <p>The Latest:</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Private school founder wants Combs to talk to her students</h3> <p>A founder of a private school where Combs is scheduled to speak if he’s released believes “everybody deserves a second chance.”</p> <p>Thea White is one of the founders of the Sprouting to Success School in Miami Gardens, Florida. White told The Associated Press that Combs will address kids in the K-12 school on Oct. 14 if the judge lets him out of jail.</p> <p>“I believe that life isn’t just about never making mistakes — it’s more about what we do after we make those mistakes,” White said.</p> <p>She declined to say how the speaking engagement came together.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Prosecutor wrapped up by repeating the words of a key witness</h3> <p>The prosecutor hit back at the Combs team’s portrayal of him as a man devoted to helping others and improving their lives.</p> <p>She, by contrast, cited “the words of one person whose life the defendant has changed” -- Cassie.</p> <p>Slavik read from a letter that the R&amp;B singer submitted to the judge, saying that she still has regular flashbacks and nightmares about Combs’ abuse: “My experience was real, horrific, and deserves to be considered,” Cassie wrote.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">It’s not just the media in the court’s overflow rooms</h3> <p>Some Combs fans have come to the courthouse for the sentencing, where they have been watching the proceedings on closed-circuit monitors in overflow rooms.</p> <p>“I’m here to see how the justice system plays out, to compare what others of his caliber and color have faced with the sentence Sean Combs will receive today,” said Desiree Monroe, who came from Pennsylvania.</p> <p>Combs himself will address the judge after a short break</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Prosecutor suggests Combs’ image isn’t accurate</h3> <p>After the defense lawyers and witnesses had their say, prosecutor Christy Slavik is getting a chance to rebut their presentation.</p> <p>She’s telling the judge that Combs “is a master puppeteer of his own image. … but that image is incomplete, and it’s misleading.”</p> <p>Slavik contrasted the highly produced 11-minute biographical defense video played in court on Friday when the gritty, raw security camera footage that showed him kicking, beating and dragging his former longtime girlfriend, Cassie, at a Los Angeles hotel in 2016.</p> <p>That video, she said, “shows the defendant for who he is when he doesn’t know the camera is rolling.”</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Defense says Combs suffers from PTSD</h3> <p>Agnifilo says that multiple doctors diagnosed the hip hop mogul with post-traumatic stress disorder. He said they made such findings in 2014, 2017 and 2020.</p> <p>The attorney says it’s unclear what initial trauma triggered the problem, though he noted his father’s death when he was a toddler.</p> <p>Agnifilo acknowledged that “we’re asking for a lot” by seeking Combs’ immediate release. But, he argues, the “I’ll Be Missing You” singer has been uniquely punished — not only with a year in jail, but with the public spectacle of raids on his home, a flurry of civil lawsuits and the destruction of his businesses.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Nonprofit’s director explains why he’s planning a Combs speaking tour</h3> <p>The executive director of the organization sponsoring Combs’ planned talks spoke briefly in court about the benefits he sees in having the music, fashion and business mogul speak to people who’ve also been involved in the criminal justice system.</p> <p>“When an individual has the willingness to create his own life skills and entrepreneurship program, despite his legal challenges, that demonstrates reform and rehabilitation,” said Giovanni Sairras, of Re-Entry One Inc.</p> <p>Combs is slated to give seven talks this month in the Miami area, provided he’s released from federal custody, beginning on Monday at a work release center. A prosecutor blasted Combs for scheduling the talks when he’s facing a potential yearslong sentence, calling it “the height of hubris.”</p> <p>Sairras said he was impressed by letters shared with him expressing how Combs had a positive impact on the fellow inmates he taught in Jail.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Defense says the rap impresario could be a teacher if freed</h3> <p>After a prosecutor criticized Combs’ plans for “teaching engagements” in Florida as soon as next week, defense lawyer Xavier Donaldson told the judge that the proposed community events were meant to show what the former rap impresario would be doing “if the court let Mr. Combs out.”</p> <p>They’re not meant as money-making ventures, but rather as “purposeful,” “intentional” activities that would show he would be “in a structured environment,” Donaldson added.</p> <p>In a Sept. 29 letter to the court, a Combs’ supporter at a Miami-based nonprofit that helps prisoners readjust to freedom said he had scheduled Combs to speak at “teaching engagements” at a prison and various other facilities in South Florida this month, starting Monday.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Defense says Combs wasn't a pimp</h3> <p>Defense lawyer Xavier Donaldson took issue with the prosecution’s contention that Combs acted like a pimp as he engaged in prostitution-related crimes.</p> <p>Unlike pimps, Combs didn’t recruit women to engage in paid sex work, nor did he make any money off of their work, the lawyer said.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Florida chaplain offers to personally guide Combs’ rehabilitation</h3> <p>Rev. Gary Johnson, a Florida preacher, encouraged the judge to release Combs to probation, saying it pains him to see the one-time rap star locked up.</p> <p>Johnson, a chaplain for the Miami Beach Police Department, said he would personally guarantee that Combs continues his rehabilitation post-incarceration.</p> <p>“If you free him,” Johnson told the judge, “we’ll help free his mind.”</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Defense portrays Combs as a civil rights leader</h3> <p>Steel urged the judge to only consider the conduct for which Combs was convicted, reiterating that the mogul was acquitted of the most serious charges, sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy.</p> <p>“Sean Combs is a leader. He is a civil rights leader. His good outweighs his bad, by far,” Steel said.</p> <p>The judge said earlier Friday that he will weigh all relevant conduct — including Combs’ violence — as he decides on a sentence. He left in place an “enhancement” for coercion, citing Combs’ threats to his longtime former girlfriend Cassie to publicly release videos of their so-called “freak-offs.”</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Combs can use his fame for good if freed, defense says</h3> <p>Combs’ celebrity could be used to spread an anti-drug, anti-crime message if he’s freed. “He can be a spokesperson,” Steel said.</p> <p>He said another attorney would address plans for upcoming events apparently featuring Combs in Florida, according to a letter sent to the court by a Miami-based nonprofit that helps prisoners readjust to freedom.</p> <p>The letter lists a series of “teaching engagements” at a prison and various other facilities in South Florida, starting Monday.</p> <p>Prosecutor Christy Slavik said Friday morning that planning for Combs to walk free by then is “the height of hubris.”</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Lawyer says Combs is haunted by his own violence</h3> <p>Steel urged Subramanian to see the case through the prism of the “untreated trauma” and “ferocious drug addiction” that he says contributed to the hip-hop mogul’s misconduct. He noted that Combs was three years old when his father was murdered, leaving his mother, Janice, to raise him by herself. </p> <p>Steel also noted that Combs’ best friend, Christopher Wallace — the rapper known as Biggie Smalls and the Notorious B.I.G. — was murdered in 1997. And then he got hooked on on painkillers following a medical procedure in 2000, and his addiction “got out of hand,” even causing him to “flat line” at times. He was high “every single day,” Steel said.</p> <p>Steel called Combs a “moral man,” a “strong man,” “a family man,” and the “hardest working person that I have ever known.”</p> <p>“He was medicating because his body was hurt and his emotions were hurt. But he never stopped working. And all of that, the drug addiction and the trauma — untreated, your honor — caused him to hit, on occasion... the woman he loved.”</p> <p>Steel said Combs remains haunted by his violent outbursts, remembering “every strike” he’s inflicted.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Combs had emotional reactions as his children spoke</h3> <p>He stood just feet away from them as they approached the lectern. Then he sat back down, watching them intently. At times, he cast his head down and shook it. And when he seemed particularly upset, he dropped his head down and ran his hands through his hair.</p> <p>Immediately after the children finished speaking, the defense showed the video, including clips of Combs with his children or trying to inspire others, particularly children, in public settings. Several minutes in, Combs put a hand over half his face and began crying, his shoulders at times heaving. Then he wiped his eyes with one hand before taking a tissue and doing the same.</p> <p>Part of the video showed him running competitively, including finishing a New York Road Runners race. In one clip, he wore a t-shirt that said: “I am the American dream.”</p> <p>Later Friday, the defense cited his children's emotional pleas, saying he needs to be free for his family’s sake.</p> <p>“He grew up without a father, his mother working all the time, and he swore that he would be there for his children,” Brian Steel said. “That’s what Sean is fighting for.”</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">The defense presentation has been atypical, reflecting a unique client</h3> <p>Combs is a wealthy celebrity with a robust legal team. And as a music producer, TV executive and fashion force, he’s well-versed in making and shaping an image — evident in the production values of the video they played for the judge. The 11-minute video includes highlights from his home videos, business exploits and more. It showcases him as a parent, businessman and a philanthropist.</p> <p>His lawyers contrasted his case with what they say are other prostitution-related cases involving far more heinous conduct. And Westmoreland delivered an emotional soliloquy that accentuated his impact on the Black community and fellow inmates, and his desire to effect positive change once he’s out from behind bars.</p> <p>Three more defense lawyers and Combs himself are expected to speak after 2 p.m., when they return from lunch.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Judge thanks Combs’ children for speaking</h3> <p>Six of Combs’ seven children spoke. His youngest daughter, Love, is just two years old. The judge thanked them afterward, saying he appreciated that doing so was difficult but it was important for the court to hear.</p> <p>His daughters Chance and D’Lila Combs cried as they read prepared remarks. D’Lila saying she fears losing their father to prison and effectively being parentless after the 2018 death of her mother, Kim Porter.</p> <p>“We are tired of being strong. We have already lost so much. We have lost our mother, we have lost time with our father, and every day he remains incarcerated, we lose more and more. Please, your honor, please,” D’Lila Combs said, crying, “give our family the chance to heal together, to rebuild, to change, to move forward, not as a headline, but as human beings. We’re trying to do better.”</p> <p>Chance Combs said: “Instead of making excuses, my father now works on ways to improve.”</p> <p>Son Christian Combs said the impresario has become “more patient, more relaxed, more trusting, more understanding and just a better man” while in jail.</p> <p>“Please give my family grace. Please let my father out,” Christian Combs said. “Please give him mercy.”</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Some of Combs’ children are addressing the court</h3> <p>They’re crowding around the podium, imploring the judge to give their father a second chance.</p> <p>His eldest son, Quincy Brown, says his father “has learned a lesson.” The family has seen him evolve, Brown says, and “he is completely transformed.”</p> <p>“My father is my superhero. Seeing him broken down and stripped of everything is something I will never forget,” said another son, Justin Combs.</p> <p>He suggested that as tough as the ordeal has been, it probably saved his father’s life because, during his year in jail, he has kicked drugs and alcohol.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Diddy taught a class in jail on business skills, defense says</h3> <p>Combs’ reputation as a successful businessman followed him inside the Brooklyn federal jail where he’s been held since his arrest last year.</p> <p>With other inmates at the Metropolitan Detention Center asking him for advice on a daily basis, Combs agreed to teach a six-week class dubbed “Free Game with Diddy,” Westmoreland said.</p> <p>Before the class, Combs made a deal with his fellow inmates, the lawyer said: If he was going to teach them, they would have to stay peaceful and let everyone on the unit who wanted to participate do so — even if they had differences.</p> <p>“Your honor, this is change. This is inspiration. This had not happened at the MDC, ever,” Westmoreland said.</p> <p>“Mr. Combs can reach so many more on the outside than he can on the inside,” she concluded. “It is of no benefit to anyone to warehouse him in a prison.”</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Defense lawyer says Combs changed her life</h3> <p>Westmoreland grew emotional as she recounted Combs’ accomplishments as a Black entrepreneur, explaining that he was an inspiration to her.</p> <p>She said that as she was trying to make her way as an attorney about eight years ago, she attended an event where he spoke and encouraged the audience not to be afraid to dream — but to follow up with action and help others.</p> <p>“That changed my life,” she said, with a sniffle.</p> <p>“Mr. Combs is not larger than life. He’s a human being. And he’s made some mistakes. He has flaws, like we all do,” Westmoreland said. “But judge, how many of us can say that we helped so many lives, countless lives?”</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Combs’ lawyer says he’s been an inspiration for Black people</h3> <p>Defense attorney Nicole Westmoreland is discussing Combs’ life and career as a hip-hop artist and businessman who owned his own record company and fashion label. Some of his achievements, she said, were milestones for the Black community and helped inspire others to follow their own dreams.</p> <p>Westmoreland choked up as she talked about Combs’ Revolt TV network, which offered a mix of programming focused on hip-hop culture, R&amp;B music, social justice and documentaries.</p> <p>▶ Read the AP’s timeline of Combs’ life and career</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Combs’ lawyers say Mann Act shouldn't apply to his sexual encounters</h3> <p>Attorney Jason Driscoll started by recapping the defense’s argument that the Mann Act, which Combs was convicted of violating, should never have been applied to him. The 115-year-old federal law prohibits taking someone across state lines for criminal sexual activity.</p> <p>Driscoll argued that Mann Act prosecutions generally have targeted people accused of making money off their conduct. He asserted that Combs “did not make a single cent” from what he was convicted of doing.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Prosecution is done arguing, pending a rebuttal</h3> <p>Slavik urged the judge to take an opportunity with his sentence to send a message to victims, the public and would-be perpetrators that Combs’ crimes were serious and are being punished accordingly.</p> <p>A lenient sentence might encourage more people to commit such crimes, knowing they won’t face much consequence, she argued.</p> <p>A lengthy sentence, she said, would potentially deter such behavior. She again urged the judge to sentence Combs to at least 11 years and 3 months behind bars.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Another few words, about ‘Jane’</h3> <p>Besides pointing to Combs’ conduct toward Cassie, prosecutors emphasized testimony from another of his ex-girlfriends, who testified under the pseudonym “Jane.”</p> <p>The former model dated Combs from 2021 until his September 2024 arrest. At his trial, she said he repeatedly pressured her into having sex with other men against her will, and that one night in June 2024, he put her in a chokehold, punched her in the face and forced her into an encounter with a sex worker.</p> <p>Combs already knew by then that he was under investigation, Slavik noted in her sentencing argument. She suggested the episode showed that when challenged, “he reacts unpredictably and abusively.”</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Prosecutor argues that Combs has not owned up to his crimes</h3> <p>Slavik slammed Combs’ letter Thursday night to the judge seeking leniency, saying that he portrayed himself as the victim of his own bad behavior.</p> <p>“Even in his submission last night, his remorse was qualified,” the prosecutor said.</p> <p>In the letter, Combs wrote: “My domestic violence will always be a heavy burden that I will have to forever carry.”</p> <p>By framing it that way, Slavik said, it’s “like he’s the victim in this scenario.”</p> <p>“This is not a person who has accepted responsibility,” Slavik said.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Is Combs really a changed man?</h3> <p>Slavik suggests that there are reasons to be skeptical about that claim, but that in in any event, “his victims don’t have the luxury of moving on so easily. They’re still picking up the pieces.”</p> <p>“The violence in this case was uncontested,” Slavik said, pointing to the defense’s trial admission that he sometimes used physical force. “The conduct here very clearly involved violence.”</p> <p>Jurors repeatedly saw security camera footage of Combs kicking, beating and dragging his then-girlfriend Cassie at a Los Angeles hotel in 2016. That assault, in a public hallway, “was just one of many violent outbursts,” the prosecutor said.</p> <p>“Imagine how much worse it was behind closed doors,” Slavik said.</p> <p>Admitting to violence as part of a defense strategy is not accountability, she said — a substantial prison sentence is.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Prosecutors blast Combs for apparently booking a speaking gig next week</h3> <p>In a Sept. 29 letter to the court, one of Combs’ supporters, a Miami-based nonprofit that helps prisoners readjust to freedom, said he had scheduled “teaching engagements” at a prison and various other facilities in South Florida this month, starting Monday.</p> <p>The letter evidently anticipated he’d be free to lead these entrepreneurship and life skills programs, describing the work as “following his release.”</p> <p>“That is the height of hubris,” Slavik said. Defense lawyers haven’t yet had their chance to respond</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">More on the witnesses whose testimony the judge can consider</h3> <p>Sean “Diddy” Combs’ sex crimes trial involved testimony from 34 witnesses.</p> <p>They included Combs’ ex-girlfriends Cassie and Jane, who said he forced them into drug-fueled sex marathons, a sex worker they knew as “The Punisher,” personal assistants who said they witnessed violence, and other women who accused him of abuse. The judge can consider all trial testimony as he decides the sentence.</p> <p>▶Read more about some of the key witnesses and their testimony.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Prosecutors begin their argument for more than 11 years in prison</h3> <p>“Today is about accountability and justice. Accountability for the defendant, who committed serious federal crimes repeatedly over the course of 15 years, and justice for the public, including for the victims, whose lives have been shattered,” prosecutor Christy Slavik said.</p> <p>“It’s a case about a man who did horrible things to real people to satisfy his own sexual gratification,” she added. “He didn’t need the money. His currency was control.”</p> <p>Slavik said the prosecution’s recommended 11-year, 3-month sentence “reflects the conduct appropriately, is consistent with other similarly situated defendants and fully respects U.S. military kills 4 in boat strike off Venezuela, Hegseth says https://www.staradvertiser.com/2025/10/03/breaking-news/u-s-military-kills-4-in-boat-strike-off-venezuela-hegseth-says/ Honolulu Star-Advertiser urn:uuid:1df8118d-9413-6dc7-09f0-c3f4fff4783f Fri, 03 Oct 2025 19:00:00 +0000 <p>WASHINGTON >> The U.S. military killed four men aboard a boat in international waters near Venezuela today, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced in a social media post. He accused the dead people of having been smuggling narcotics, without offering evidence.</p> Kaiser Permanente workers across Hawaiʻi announce strike dates https://www.khon2.com/local-news/kaiser-permanente-workers-across-hawai%ca%bbi-announce-strike-dates/ KHON2 urn:uuid:75e349a0-ee82-5d47-0e23-b14dc6ef26a3 Fri, 03 Oct 2025 18:52:09 +0000 Labor unions representing healthcare workers at Hawaiʻi's Kaiser Permanente locations have delivered their 10-day strike notice to the hospital system, announcing a five-day strike. <p>HONOLULU (KHON2) -- Labor unions representing healthcare workers at Hawaiʻi's Kaiser Permanente locations have delivered their 10-day strike notice to the hospital system, announcing a five-day strike.</p> <p>The strike is set to begin on Oct. 14 at 6:30 a.m. and end on Oct. 19 at 7 a.m. More than 2,000 employees from Kaiser facilities across the islands including hospital aides, medical assistants, housekeeping, pharmacy techs and more will be on strike during this time.</p> <div class="nlp-ignore-block article-content rich-text"> <aside class="promo-link"> <a href="https://www.khon2.com/local-news/hawai%ca%bbi-kaiser-permanente-workers-authorize-strike/?ipid=promo-link-block1" class="promo-link__link" target=&quot;_blank&quot; > Hawaiʻi Kaiser Permanente workers authorize strike </a> </aside> </div> <p>The labor unions, UNITE HERE Local 5 and the Hawaiʻi Nurses and Healthcare Professionals have been in negotiations with the hospital system since April, with the unions saying they are asking for a wage increase and safe staffing ratios.</p> <p>"I am ready to strike because even after months of bargaining, Kaiser has not fully addressed out top concerns: safe staffing and fair wage increases," Kaiser Kona LPN Lisa Pang said. "I take pride in doing everything I can to make sure our patients are taken care of at Kaiser, but it is insulting that Kaiser values us less than workers on the continent and frustrating when they do not provide the proper staffing needed to deliver quality patient care."</p> <div class="nlp-ignore-block article-content rich-text"> <p class="has-vivid-red-color has-text-color has-medium-font-size"><strong><a href="https://nxslink.khon2.com/join/6sd/signup" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Get Hawaii's latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You</a></strong></p> </div> <p>The unions say that Hawaiʻi Kaiser employees make up to 30% less than their mainland counterparts performing the same duties.</p> <p>A strike was originally authorized on Sept. 22, with 97% of workers from one of the union voting in favor of the strike. The workers' contracts expired on Sept. 30.</p> <p>In a statement when workers were initially looking to strike, Kaiser Permanente issued a statement reassuring their intent to bargain in good faith with the labor unions.</p> <div class="nlp-ignore-block article-content rich-text"> <h2 class="wp-block-heading has-vivid-red-color has-text-color has-medium-font-size"><strong><a href="https://khon2.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Find more Hawaii, Oahu, Maui and Kauai news here</a></strong></h2> </div> <p>“Kaiser Permanente has a proud history of working collaboratively with labor unions. We employ the largest number of union-represented health care workers in the country and work with over 40 unions,” the statement said. “We offer competitive wages, industry-leading benefits and meaningful career development opportunities. We are proud that about 92% of our employees represented by the Alliance choose to stay with Kaiser Permanente, well above the national health care average.”</p> Mislabeled: Hawaii woman arrested for Kona Coffee scam https://www.khon2.com/hawaii-crime/mislabeled-hawaii-woman-arrested-for-kona-coffee-scam/ KHON2 urn:uuid:f36a1cc1-bf49-7071-07b1-7f04604593c2 Fri, 03 Oct 2025 18:35:18 +0000 A Kona woman was arrested on multiple charges, including wire fraud and obstruction, in connection with coffee falsely labeled as 100% Kona-grown. <p>KONA, Hawaii (KHON2) -- A Kona woman was arrested on multiple charges, including wire fraud and obstruction, in connection with coffee falsely labeled as 100% Kona-grown.</p> <div class="nlp-ignore-block article-content rich-text"> <aside class="promo-link"> <a href="https://www.khon2.com/local-news/recalled-tru-fru-brand-freeze-dried-products/?ipid=promo-link-block1" class="promo-link__link" target=&quot;_blank&quot; > Recalled: Tru Fru brand Freeze Dried products </a> </aside> </div> <p>According to a federal indictment, Patricia Johnson ran the "Kona Coffee Cafe" on Alii Drive for about 30 years.</p> <p>The indictment says she sold beans, ground coffee and drinks to customers there and on the internet, all advertised and labeled "100% Kona Coffee."</p> <p>But the feds allege she had been bringing in wholesale beans from out of state and out of country since at least 2012, raking in what they say was millions of dollars in fraudulent revenue.</p> <p>The indictment states that coffee can only be labeled 100% Kona if it is grown in that district, citing the Hawaii Department of Agriculture label rules.</p> <div class="nlp-ignore-block article-content rich-text"> <aside class="promo-link"> <a href="https://www.khon2.com/local-news/officer-involved-shooting-in-downtown-honolulu-area-nearby-road-closed/?ipid=promo-link-block2" class="promo-link__link" target=&quot;_blank&quot; > Man dead following officer-involved downtown Honolulu shooting </a> </aside> </div> <p>The indictment says the state started looking into her alleged mislabeling as early as 2019.</p> Apple pulls ICE-tracking apps after Trump administration request https://www.staradvertiser.com/2025/10/03/breaking-news/apple-pulls-ice-tracking-apps-after-trump-administration-request/ Honolulu Star-Advertiser urn:uuid:0b8cc102-bec5-11d4-e7ab-ba41e45a72bf Fri, 03 Oct 2025 18:00:00 +0000 <p>WASHINGTON >> Apple said on Thursday that it had removed ICEBlock and other similar ICE-tracking apps from its App Store after it was contacted by President Donald Trump&#8217;s administration, in a rare instance of apps being taken down due to a U.S. federal government demand.</p> Supreme Court takes up new Second Amendment case  https://www.khon2.com/hill-politics/supreme-court-takes-up-new-second-amendment-case/ KHON2 urn:uuid:6ce04244-b26b-4668-9569-f7949ba08dba Fri, 03 Oct 2025 17:46:03 +0000 The Supreme Court took up its next Second Amendment case Friday, agreeing to hear a challenge to Hawaii’s ban on carrying concealed weapons on private property without the owner’s express consent. Three Hawaii residents and a local gun rights group, backed by the Trump administration, urged the justices to review a lower ruling upholding the [...] <p>The Supreme Court took up its next Second Amendment case Friday, agreeing to hear a challenge to Hawaii’s ban on carrying concealed weapons on private property without the owner’s express consent.</p> <p>Three Hawaii residents and a local gun rights group, backed by the Trump administration, urged the justices to review a lower ruling upholding the state’s law.&nbsp;</p> <p>In a brief order, the justices set the case to be heard this upcoming term. A decision is expected by next summer.&nbsp;</p> <p>“Boom!” Harmeet Dhillon, who leads the Justice Department’s civil rights division, wrote on X, calling it an “important” case.</p> <p>The Hill has reached out to the Hawaii attorney general’s office for comment.</p> <p>It marks the Supreme Court’s latest case that will apply its expanded Second Amendment test it laid out in 2022 requiring gun control measures to be consistent with the nation’s historical tradition of firearm regulation.</p> <p>It has led lower courts to strike down many gun regulations across the country, but judges have also split on aspects of applying the test.</p> <p>Last year, the court provided additional guidance by ruling a federal crime on gun possession for domestic abusers was constitutional. The Justice Department and gun rights groups alike have since asked the justices to continue taking up Second Amendment cases to provide additional clarity.</p> <p>Hawaii is one of several states that by default prohibits permitholders from carrying guns on private property that’s open to the public unless the property owner gives express consent, such as hanging a sign.&nbsp;</p> <p>The challengers urged the Supreme Court to take up the dispute to resolve a split between the appeals court that upheld Hawaii’s law and an appeals court on the East Coast that struck down a similar provision in New York.&nbsp;</p> <p>"The scope and operation of Hawaii’s default rule thus establish that the rule serves no legitimate objective and that it instead seeks simply to impede the carrying of firearms. That is plainly unconstitutional," the Justice Department wrote in court papers backing the appeal.</p> <p>Hawaii urged the justices to turn away the challenge and instead allow more lower courts to weigh in on the issue.&nbsp;</p> <p>"Petitioners seek to short-circuit this important stage of lower court percolation,” Hawaii wrote.&nbsp;</p> <p><em>Updated at 1:15 p.m. EDT</em></p> Feds approve Florida for a $608 million 'Alligator Alcatraz' reimbursement https://www.khon2.com/top-stories/ap-top-headlines/ap-feds-reimburse-florida-608-million-for-alligator-alcatraz-costs/ KHON2 urn:uuid:887fc99f-1ad2-fa70-7271-4901f830dc2e Fri, 03 Oct 2025 17:34:41 +0000 Federal officials on Friday confirmed Florida has been approved for a $608 million reimbursement for the costs of building and running an immigration detention center in the Florida Everglades, exposing “Alligator Alcatraz” to the potential risk of being ordered to close for a second time. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security said in an email [...] <p>Federal officials on Friday confirmed Florida has been approved for a $608 million reimbursement for the costs of building and running an immigration detention center in the Florida Everglades, exposing “Alligator Alcatraz” to the potential risk of being ordered to close for a second time.</p> <p>The U.S. Department of Homeland Security said in an email that the state of Florida was awarded its full reimbursement this week.</p> <p>While the funds have been approved, they haven't yet been released since the Federal Emergency Management Agency's process requires that it review expenses for which reimbursement requests are made, Stephanie Hartman, director of communications for the Florida Division of Emergency Management, said in an email to The Associated Press.</p> <p>The reimbursement process potentially exposes the state of Florida to being forced to unwind operations at the remote facility for a second time because of a federal judge's injunction in August. The Miami judge agreed with environmental groups who had sued that the site wasn’t given a proper environmental review before it was converted into an immigration detention center and gave Florida two months to wind down operations. </p> <p>The judge's injunction, however, was put on hold for the time being by an appellate court panel in Atlanta that said the state-run facility didn't need to undergo a federally required environmental impact study because Florida had yet to receive federal money for the project. </p> <p>“If the federal defendants ultimately decide to approve that request and reimburse Florida for its expenditures related to the facility, they may need to first conduct an EIS (environmental impact statement),” the three-judge appellate court panel wrote last month.</p> <p>The appellate panel decision allowed the detention center to stay open and put a stop to wind-down efforts.</p> <p>President Donald Trump toured the facility in July and suggested it could be a model for future lockups nationwide as his administration pushes to expand the infrastructure needed to increase deportations.</p> <p>Environmental groups that had sued the federal and state governments said the confirmation of the reimbursement showed that the Florida-built facility was a federal project “from the jump.”</p> <p>“This is a federal project being built with federal funds that’s required by federal law to go through a complete environmental review," Elise Bennett, Florida and Caribbean director at the Center for Biological Diversity, said in a statement. "We’ll do everything we can to stop this lawless, destructive and wasteful debacle.”</p> <p>___</p> <p>Follow Mike Schneider on the social platform Bluesky: @mikeysid.bsky.social</p> Mini-meditations are a way to foster peace of mind at work https://www.khon2.com/business/ap-business/ap-mini-meditations-are-a-way-to-foster-peace-of-mind-at-work/ KHON2 urn:uuid:0298a53e-1315-2c38-3875-ab6368d023e5 Fri, 03 Oct 2025 17:02:56 +0000 NEW YORK (AP) — The idea of meditating can be intimidating. Beginners may imagine sitting uncomfortably in silence while breathing deeply and scrubbing all thoughts from their minds. The prospect of trying those techniques at work may feel embarrassing. But there are ways to bring short, inconspicuous sessions into the workday if you want to [...] <p>NEW YORK (AP) — The idea of meditating can be intimidating. Beginners may imagine sitting uncomfortably in silence while breathing deeply and scrubbing all thoughts from their minds. The prospect of trying those techniques at work may feel embarrassing.</p> <p>But there are ways to bring short, inconspicuous sessions into the workday if you want to see if meditation can help you deal with challenging customers or reduce anxiety while preparing for a presentation. And experienced practitioners say there's no right or wrong way to do it.</p> <p>“ Meditation is quite easy, as a matter of fact. I think there’s a stigma around it, that you have to be in complete silence, and you have to have some room setup, or do some chanting, or some serious breathing,” said Michelle Beyer, a wellness coach who owns the Brooklyn women’s gym Alana Life &amp; Fitness. “There’s one-minute meditations you can do to make yourself feel great. Nobody will even know you’re doing them."</p> <p>While there are different meditation techniques, many traditions encourage focusing on breathing to help calm the mind. When thoughts pop up, imagine letting them go. Practitioners say meditating before or at work helps them maintain focus, sit still and reduce stress. </p> <p>“There is a calm that I am definitely missing when I have forgotten to do it for a few days,” said Brianna Healy, who meditates for 10 minutes daily before starting her job as assistant director of strategic initiatives and data solutions at Naropa University, a college in Boulder, Colorado, that is inspired by Buddhist principles. “I can always tell the difference in my demeanor."</p> <p>If you feel pressed for time, try fitting meditation sessions into breaks. You can set a timer and focus on breathing while sitting at a desk, in a restroom, inside a vehicle or outside, Beyer said.</p> <p>Here are some easy mini-meditations to try out on the job.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">A pre-work pause </h3> <p>Commuters can consider getting to work a little early and taking a pause in their cars or a quiet location to decompress from getting out the door and to your destination, said Kathryn Remati, a meditation teacher and author of “Befriend Yourself.” If you only have a minute or two, that's still enough time to try Remati's instructions for a quick reset.</p> <p>Close your eyes and take a long, slow, deep breath to fill your tummy and lungs with air, she said. Hold the breath for a second, and then slowly breathe out like you're blowing out a candle. "You’ll immediately feel a shift and you’ll feel like a human again,” Remati said.</p> <p>While repeating that process, consider setting a positive intention, or goal, for the day. Instead of focusing on a to-do list, think about how you want behave towards others, she said. Some intention examples are, “Today I’m going to be productive, but I’m also going to a good listener” or “I want to have a positive attitude,” she said.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Picture your bliss</h3> <p>Visualization is another technique that experienced meditators use. Picture yourself succeeding at the challenges you’ll encounter that day. If there’s an upcoming deadline, envision yourself finishing the task 10 minutes early. Jumping for joy. Get specific like a movie director and imagine the colors in the room or the feeling of wind on your face, Remati said.</p> <p>Throughout the day, “you can bring up that image anytime you need it to refocus,” she said. </p> <p>You can also use visualization to reframe your perspective on colleagues or clients. A technique Remati recommends putting into practice before meetings may seem quirky: Envision a white light over the meeting room's doorway that showers the people entering with brightness. Remati says it may help you imagine them in a better light. “You can even put some sort of pink bubble around people," she added. </p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Body scan</h3> <p>Another short meditation that can be done almost anywhere involves breathing deeply and mentally scanning your body for sensations, a technique popularized in the U.S. by mindfulness practitioner Jon Kabat-Zinn. Depending on your location and comfort level, you can keep your eyes open or closed. </p> <p>Inhale through the nose and out through the mouth. Start with your feet and work your way up, noticing any areas with pain, tightness, tingling, warmth or other sensations. Think about relaxing the muscles of any spots where there's tension. </p> <p>“You’re intentionally scanning your body,” Beyer said. “You’re thinking about, how do your feet feel in your shoes? How do your ankles feel? Knees, hips, ribs, shoulders, neck, head, and by the time you know it, you checked in with every part of your body."</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Finger and thumb</h3> <p>Another discreet meditation technique is breathing deeply and joining your pointer finger to your thumb to form a circle. You can do this if you feel your stress level rising. “Say to yourself, whenever I put my finger and thumb together, I will be able to be peaceful and open-minded,” Remati said. </p> <p>If you're in a meeting and start to feel resentful or left out, you can do it under the table, and no one will know, she added. Remati does this herself if she notices she's becoming judgmental or short-tempered. “You just do the finger and thumb, take a nice deep breath, get grounded, and then get back into the meeting and feeling positive,” she said.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Inhaling in and humming out</h3> <p>One of Beyer's favorite techniques is best done when there aren't a lot of people nearby. Truck drivers can do it in traffic. You inhale, and then when you're breathing out, you hum with your lips closed, she said. </p> <p>“It's going to immediately take down stress levels in the body and even in the mind,” Beyer said. “When you inhale and you focus on humming, then your brain is focused on that, not the ‘what ifs' or the worries that like to take over when we feel stressed.”</p> <p>If you feel self-conscious about humming in a quiet office, you can step outside or head to a noisier place. </p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Shoulder and jaw release</h3> <p>The shoulder and jaw release technique also may help relax the bodies of train passengers or drivers or stuck in traffic, Beyer said. To start, inhale through the nose and exhale through the mouth. Repeat that, and then on the third exhale, roll your shoulders back. Inhale a fourth time and then on the next exhale relax your tongue and jaw, Beyer said. Finally, inhale again, bring your attention to your hands and just let them hang heavy, she said. Then breathe in and out a sixth time. </p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Mantras and affirmations </h3> <p>Another technique Remati encourages is saying mantras or affirmations, which are positive statements or slogans you repeat to yourself. You can write them down and say them in your head or out loud while breathing deeply, before a meeting or at any point throughout the day.</p> <p>Some phrases you might say: “I am calm." Deep breath. “I am confident.” Deep breath. "I am ready for success,” Remati suggested. “I speak my truth. I am patient. I am here for the highest good of all.”</p> <p>___</p> <p>Send your workplace questions and story ideas to cbussewitz@ap.org. Follow AP’s Be Well coverage, focusing on wellness, fitness, diet and mental health at https://apnews.com/hub/be-well.</p> U.S. services sector stalls as new orders slow, inflation stays high https://www.staradvertiser.com/2025/10/03/breaking-news/u-s-services-sector-stalls-as-new-orders-slow-inflation-stays-high/ Honolulu Star-Advertiser urn:uuid:1e966b2d-5cdf-e683-d0dc-837eab02e867 Fri, 03 Oct 2025 17:00:00 +0000 <p>WASHINGTON >> U.S. services sector activity stalled in September amid a sharp slowdown in new orders, while subdued employment added to mounting evidence of sluggish labor market conditions because of sagging demand and supply of workers.</p>