Department of the Attorney General provides biweekly update on public corruption investigation
The Department of the Attorney General continues its biweekly update regarding an ongoing criminal investigation into a previously federally disclosed transfer of about $35,000 in funds.
Since the last update, the department’s Special Investigation and Prosecution Division has engaged in additional interviews, issued more subpoenas, and continues to examine documents received in response to the subpoenas.
Recent media coverage has contributed to increased public interest and speculation surrounding this investigation.
“It continues to be my intent to protect the confidentiality of the individual or individuals who may be subject to this investigation along with numerous witnesses,” said Attorney General Anne Lopez. “We continue to work as expeditiously as possible while adhering to best practices. I cannot predict when I will have more meaningful updates, but I want to assure residents of Hawaiʻi that this investigation remains one of our highest priorities.”
Hawaiʻi REALTORS Foundation to distribute $200,000 in storm relief
Applications are available for $200,000 in grants for Hawaiʻi residents impacted by the Kona Low storms in March.
The funds are provided by the REALTORS Relief Foundation, which offers housing-related assistance to disaster-impacted communities through the generosity of REALTORS, state and local associations, and industry partners.
Homeowners and renters affected by the floods may apply for grants up to $1,000.
Applications are open and will be accepted through July 1, 2026, on a first-come, first-served basis. Each will be reviewed by the Hawaiʻi REALTORS Charitable Foundation.
“We are committed to getting funds into the hands of Hawaiʻi residents in need as quickly as possible to provide relief from the devastating impact of the recent Kona Low storms,” said Moana Andersen, president of the Hawaiʻi REALTORS Charitable Foundation.
The nonprofit Hawaiʻi REALTORS Charitable Foundation was launched in 2020 to serve communities throughout Hawaiʻi by supporting charitable organizations and their efforts to assist those in need.
Visit the Hawaiʻi REALTORS website for more information.
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue opens six new locations in the U.S.
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue, the largest Hawaiʻi-based restaurant chain, marked its strongest opening month in company history in April 2026, with six restaurants debuting across the U.S.
Known for its Hawaiian plate lunch, L&L Hawaiian Barbecue has had 12 new openings so far this year and is set to reach a portfolio of 250 restaurants this year.
New locations opened in Colorado Springs, Colorado; Duluth, Georgia; Sand Island and Ala Moana Center in Honolulu, Hawaiʻi; Long Beach, California; and Randolph Air Force Base, Texas. Together, these additions bring the brand to more than 235 locations worldwide and strengthen its footprint in key markets across the West, South and East Coast.
The growth reflects a strong mix of experienced multi-unit franchisees and first-time operators and a rising demand for familiar, hearty meals with a clear sense of place.
In Colorado Springs, Ron Chadwick Jr. expanded his regional footprint with another location, now operating six L&L restaurants across Colorado and Nevada. In Duluth, first-time franchisee Sam Kim introduced L&L to a growing and diverse community.
Chao Tian “Tim” Pang opened his fourth L&L restaurant on Oʻahu, with his latest location at Ala Moana Center in Honolulu. Additional openings on Sand Island, Long Beach, and at Randolph Air Force Base continue to extend the brand’s reach in Hawaiʻi, California, and Texas.
“At this stage, what stands out is the strength and range of operators behind each restaurant, from experienced multi-unit owners to first-time franchisees entering the system,” said Josie Akana, vice president of franchising at L&L Hawaiian Barbecue. “We’re seeing operators expand thoughtfully while introducing the plate lunch to communities where it still feels new. That balance allows us to scale while staying consistent in how we serve our guests.”
Many franchisees are drawn to L&L’s accessible business model and cultural foundation. With a total investment range of $253,950 to $838,460, hands-on training in Hawaiʻi and a menu designed for operational consistency, the brand offers a scalable entry point for both first-time operators and experienced multi-unit owners.
“Opening six restaurants in one month shows the strength of L&L’s franchise system and the continued appeal of Hawaiʻi’s plate lunch,” said Elisia Flores, chief executive officer of L&L Hawaiian Barbecue. “As we grow, we remain focused on protecting the quality, consistency, and aloha that define the brand.”
Looking ahead, L&L Hawaiian Barbecue continues to build its development pipeline in key U.S. markets, with more than a dozen restaurants in development and additional openings expected throughout 2026 across California, Washington, Tennessee, Indiana, and Maryland.
For more information, visit the L&L Hawaiian Barbecue website.
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