Aloha District 9,
Browse through our July 2026 Report for 'Ewa Beach:
Aloha District 9,
Browse through our July 2026 Report for 'Ewa Beach:
One of the greatest joys of serving District 9 is witnessing the incredible spirit of our community. Every day, I meet residents who choose to make a difference, not because they have to, but because they care. Whether they're cleaning a park, mentoring our youth, checking on a neighbor, serving our country, or preserving the traditions that make Hawaiʻi so special, they remind me that the true strength of our islands has always been our people.
That same spirit of service is reflected in the ongoing work taking place throughout District 9. My office continues working closely with City departments, community partners, and dedicated volunteers to remove illegally dumped debris, clear overgrown vegetation, address homeless encampment trash, and restore public spaces across our communities. One of our largest ongoing efforts has focused on the more than 50 acre City property surrounding Hawaiʻi's Plantation Village, helping preserve this historic and cultural treasure while making the area cleaner, safer, and more welcoming for everyone.
This month's newsletter celebrates that spirit of service and community.
You'll meet Community Hero Ray Aivazian III, whose passion for protecting our parks, beaches, and oceans has inspired countless volunteers to care for our island home. Through the City's Adopt a Park Program, Ray has adopted three parks, bringing together volunteers to remove litter, restore natural spaces, and inspire others to take pride in caring for our shared public spaces. His leadership reminds us that when even one person steps forward, they can inspire an entire community to make a lasting difference.
We're also proud to celebrate the extraordinary accomplishments of the Waipahu High School "Marauders Own" Army JROTC Drill Team. I had the privilege of presenting the team with an Honorary Certificate at Waipahu High School in recognition of its first ever National Championship. Their historic victory and multiple national awards reflect countless hours of hard work, discipline, teamwork, and leadership in the pursuit of excellence.
You'll find information about Hawaiʻi's new Purple Heart specialty license plate, created to honor our Purple Heart recipients. As a proud Purple Heart City, Honolulu remains committed to recognizing the brave men and women who sacrificed so much in service to our nation. Their courage and selflessness deserve our deepest gratitude and our commitment to preserving their legacy for future generations.
You'll also learn how Neighborhood Security Watches are bringing residents together to build stronger connections, look out for one another, and create safer, more resilient communities. These efforts show that when neighbors know and support one another, everyone benefits.
Be sure to check out this month's Did You Know? feature, where we explore the local history behind one of Hawaiʻi's favorite comfort foods, pastele stew, and discover the rich cultural traditions that helped make it a beloved island favorite.
I hope this newsletter not only keeps you informed but also inspires you to get involved in your community. Whether you volunteer your time, participate in a neighborhood cleanup, lend a helping hand to a neighbor, or simply offer a smile and words of encouragement, every act of kindness helps strengthen the place we all call home.
Mahalo for the privilege of serving you. My office is always here to listen, assist, and work alongside you as we continue building an even stronger District 9.
From my ʻohana to yours, thank you for being part of this journey.
One of the greatest joys of serving District 9 is witnessing the incredible spirit of our community. Every day, I meet residents who choose to make a difference, not because they have to, but because they care. Whether they're cleaning a park, mentoring our youth, checking on a neighbor, serving our country, or preserving the traditions that make Hawaiʻi so special, they remind me that the true strength of our islands has always been our people.
That same spirit of service is reflected in the ongoing work taking place throughout District 9. My office continues working closely with City departments, community partners, and dedicated volunteers to remove illegally dumped debris, clear overgrown vegetation, address homeless encampment trash, and restore public spaces across our communities. One of our largest ongoing efforts has focused on the more than 50 acre City property surrounding Hawaiʻi's Plantation Village, helping preserve this historic and cultural treasure while making the area cleaner, safer, and more welcoming for everyone.
This month's newsletter celebrates that spirit of service and community.
You'll meet Community Hero Ray Aivazian III, whose passion for protecting our parks, beaches, and oceans has inspired countless volunteers to care for our island home. Through the City's Adopt a Park Program, Ray has adopted three parks, bringing together volunteers to remove litter, restore natural spaces, and inspire others to take pride in caring for our shared public spaces. His leadership reminds us that when even one person steps forward, they can inspire an entire community to make a lasting difference.
We're also proud to celebrate the extraordinary accomplishments of the Waipahu High School "Marauders Own" Army JROTC Drill Team. I had the privilege of presenting the team with an Honorary Certificate at Waipahu High School in recognition of its first ever National Championship. Their historic victory and multiple national awards reflect countless hours of hard work, discipline, teamwork, and leadership in the pursuit of excellence.
You'll find information about Hawaiʻi's new Purple Heart specialty license plate, created to honor our Purple Heart recipients. As a proud Purple Heart City, Honolulu remains committed to recognizing the brave men and women who sacrificed so much in service to our nation. Their courage and selflessness deserve our deepest gratitude and our commitment to preserving their legacy for future generations.
You'll also learn how Neighborhood Security Watches are bringing residents together to build stronger connections, look out for one another, and create safer, more resilient communities. These efforts show that when neighbors know and support one another, everyone benefits.
Be sure to check out this month's Did You Know? feature, where we explore the local history behind one of Hawaiʻi's favorite comfort foods, pastele stew, and discover the rich cultural traditions that helped make it a beloved island favorite.
I hope this newsletter not only keeps you informed but also inspires you to get involved in your community. Whether you volunteer your time, participate in a neighborhood cleanup, lend a helping hand to a neighbor, or simply offer a smile and words of encouragement, every act of kindness helps strengthen the place we all call home.
Mahalo for the privilege of serving you. My office is always here to listen, assist, and work alongside you as we continue building an even stronger District 9.
From my ʻohana to yours, thank you for being part of this journey.
Cover Photo:
On July 14, I had the opportunity to present an Honorary Certificate to the Waipahu High School “Marauders Own” Army JROTC Drill Team in recognition of their incredible performance at the National High School Drill Team Championships in Daytona Beach, Florida. Photo: Josh Koh
Cover Photo:
On July 14, I had the opportunity to present an Honorary Certificate to the Waipahu High School “Marauders Own” Army JROTC Drill Team in recognition of their incredible performance at the National High School Drill Team Championships in Daytona Beach, Florida. Photo: Josh Koh
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