Business
Community petition to revoke permits is denied as Coco Palms rebuild continues
The planning commission’s decision comes amid developer Reef Capital Partner’s announcement that they have reached key milestones in the demolition process, and that construction crews are actively working to complete the once-renowned Coco Palms Resort in 2026.
Senate committees advance marijuana legalization bill
A third reading in the full Senate for SB 3335 is likely to be scheduled in the coming days, as the bill has a March 7 deadline to cross over to the House for further consideration.
Kaua‘i County Council defers resolution against legalizing recreational marijuana
Kaua‘i County Council Chair Mel Rapozo introduced a resolution on Wednesday urging the state legislature to oppose Senate Bill 3335, a measure that would make recreational cannabis legal in the state effective Jan. 1, 2026. After a lengthy debate, the county council voted in a 3-3 tie, deferring the resolution for reconsideration on March 13.
The Jammin’ Banana: Kaua‘i family builds café around daughter’s baking prowess
Doug Szurgot was an electrician. Then his daughter found success selling banana bread. He thought, “We only live once” – and The Jammin’ Banana Bakery & Café was born.
Don’t let your fur fly: Relax with a bevy of 4-legged friends at the only cat café on Kaua‘i
All cats at TropiCats – located at Harbor Mall in Nāwiliwili – are up for adoption. Some have found their “forever homes” on the mainland United States.
Stockholders vote to adopt merger between Hawaiian and Alaska Airlines
Alaska reached the deal in December to purchase Hawaiian Airlines for approximately $1.9 billion.
The United States’ westernmost bookstore celebrates 20 years of business on Kaua‘i’s west side
Ed and Yuriko Justus – plus “Cat Boss” Natalie – are celebrating their milestone with monthly giveaways and an event planned later this year.
Waimea Plantation Cottages Resort celebrates 40 years of Hawaiian hospitality on Kaua‘i
The historic Waimea Plantation Cottages, nestled on the shores of western Kaua‘i, has roots dating back to 1884 and has welcomed guests with the charms of authentic Hawai‘i plantation homes since 1984.
Hawai‘i Water buys HOH Utilities assets on Kaua‘i
The purchase of HOH Utilities’ wastewater system assets on Kaua‘i marks the entry of Hawai‘i Water onto its fourth island.
$700M settlement announced in Google Play Store misconduct case
Google will pay $630 million in restitution, minus costs and fees, to consumers who made purchases on the Google Play Store between August 2016 and September of this year and were harmed by anti-competitive practices.
Jim Pedone appointed GM and Hannah Taito as Resort Manager at the Royal Sonesta Kaua‘i
Formerly serving as the Director of Sales and Marketing, Pedone brings a wealth of experience in luxury hotels and a commitment to excellence that will help build the Sonesta brand in Hawai‘i.
1 Hotel Hanalei Bay only Hawai‘i hotel to win spot on Conde Nast Traveler Gold List 2024
Opened for less than a year, the mission-driven 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay is the only Hawai‘i hotel to win a coveted spot on what is considered the world’s most prestigious travel award.
Reminder: Kaua‘i businesses that help you toward zero waste
We fill the landfill with 25% recyclables, 25% organics like food and green waste, and 25% construction and demolition material.
Alaska Airlines to buy Hawaiian Airlines in $1.9 billion deal
Alaska Air Group, Inc. with acquire the airline for $18 per share cash. Alaska Air will also take on Hawaiian’s $0.9 billion net debt.
Hawaiʻi recognized as Captive Insurance Domicile of the Year
Captive insurance is a regulated form of self-insurance formed by companies to better manage their risk and provide an alternate insurance option for corporate lines of insurance.
Hawai‘i State FCU announces management promotions
“Duke, Trisha and Genesis have consistently demonstrated their commitment to Hawaii State FCU and have all played integral roles in the growth of our organization – from the opening of our new headquarters, and several new branches on O‘ahu and Maui, to our newest digital banking features,” said Andrew Rosen, president and CEO of Hawai‘i State FCU.
UH named one of nation’s best workplaces for parents, families by Newsweek
The university is one of two Hawaiʻi employers and only eight universities throughout the nation that made the global news magazine’s list of “America’s Greatest Workplaces for Parents and Families.”
Kaua‘i Chamber of Commerce donates to Pacific Missile Range Facility for Navy Birthday Ball
The donation makes the ball, which is today on the birthday of the U.S. Navy, free for all junior sailors and lowers the cost for the other participants.
Bailey replaces Mattson as president & CEO of Castle Hospitality Group
Castle Hospitality Group has selected Matt Bailey to succeed Alan Mattson as President & CEO of the Hawaiʻi-based hotel, condo resort and vacation rental management company.
Koloa Rum Company partners with Foodland to launch exclusive 75th anniversary cocktail
The Koloa Hawaiian Mango-Pineapple Rum Cocktail features Kōloa Kauai White Rum, blended with tropical mango and pineapple, and visually portrays a sunset-like appearance.