University & Research: UH Manoa landed in the top tier of global research universities in the 2026-27 U.S. News & World Report Best Global Universities rankings, placing No. 110 nationally and No. 482 worldwide, with standout subject rankings in marine biology and meteorology. Local Community & Food Security: Kaukau 4 Keiki’s summer meal program is stretched thin on Oʻahu, with volunteer shortages driving long lines and a hard cap of 750 families a week at its biggest Ewa Beach site. Tourism & Infrastructure: The Hawaiʻi Convention Center is pressing ahead with leak repairs during its shutdown, but lawmakers’ rejection of a $55 million request means many upgrades will slip, threatening competitiveness when it reopens. Culture & Community Events: The Nā Kamehameha Commemorative Pāʻū Parade and Hō‘olaule‘a returned to Central Maui June 20, drawing crowds and honoring Hawaiian culture through parade awards and performances. Public Safety & Health: The Supreme Court agreed to revisit whether federal prisoners can still sue over deliberate indifference to serious medical needs, a case tied to an inmate’s medical care after an attack at a Honolulu federal prison. Business & Finance: Maui County FCU and the Salvation Army kicked off their Adopt a Backpack school supply drive, collecting donations through July 18 at multiple Maui branches.