Island Insider - HPR's weekly news newsletter

Hawaiian Electric customers in areas that experience frequent windstorms and droughts could have their power cut off when dry conditions prove hazardous. HPR's Savannah Harriman-Pote consulted with officials to learn what the program could mean for about 48,000 customers on Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi Island and throughout Maui County.

Local officials and advocates are celebrating the passage of significant housing reform bills that made it through the state legislative session. Perhaps the most notable — and controversial — of those measures is a bill that forces the counties to increase the number of accessory dwelling units allowed on residential properties in urban areas by 2026. HPR's Mark Ladao has more.

The Festival of Pacific Arts and Culture, the largest gathering of Pacific Islanders, is anticipated to draw more than 100,000 people and over 2,100 delegates from 26 Pacific nations and territories. Kiribati was the first nation to arrive on island, while others are expected to land later this week. The free 10-day festival starts June 6. HPR's Cassie Ordonio reports.

The survey of just over 900 residents showed that the demand for food is approaching 2021 levels when the COVID-19 pandemic led to record unemployment and disruptions in the food supply chain. The report stated that nearly 40% of participants worried about running out of food before their next paycheck. HPR's Mark Ladao has more.

For those with questions about the legislative process, the Public Access Room at the Hawaiʻi State Capitol probably has your answers. Virginia Beck has led the PAR for nearly 10 years — and has worked there for almost 20. Under her supervision, the PAR has expanded its reach to Hawaiʻi residents. HPR's Ashley Mizuo spoke with Beck ahead of her last day.

A “bad actor” accused of giving away plants infested with little fire ants has had its name cleared by the state Department of Agriculture — but that's done little to satisfy concerns that the department isn’t doing enough to stop invasive species. Meanwhile, the business is trying to recover from the hit to its reputation. HPR's Mark Ladao has more.

Big Island math teacher Rory Inouye won the Milken Educator Award this year for his work at Waiākea High School. Inouye, like all candidates, was unaware he was submitted for the award. The Conversation's Catherine Cruz spoke with some of Inouye's toughest reviewers — his students — about his passion for helping them succeed.