Latest news with #DiPasquale
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
City Council approves $40K Liquor Commission settlement
Litigation involving the Honolulu Liquor Commission and one of its former investigators who claimed discrimination, harassment and a hostile work environment based on his sexual orientation while working for the agency has advanced toward a settlement. Without discussion or public comment, the Honolulu City Council voted unanimously Wednesday to adopt the city's request to authorize the agreement for Jhumar Ray Waite, with the city agency solely charged with the power and authority to grant licenses for the manufacture, import or sale of liquor within the city and county. James DiPasquale, Waite's attorney, told the Honolulu Star-Advertiser his client will receive $40, 000 from the city as part of the agreement. 'It just resolves this simple case, ' he added. The mayor's office also confirmed the Waite settlement. 'The city determined that the settlement amount was reasonable when compared to the anticipated costs of continued litigation, ' Ian Scheuring, the mayor's deputy communications director, told the Star-Advertiser. 'In exchange for the monetary settlement, the plaintiff agreed to release and dismiss with prejudice all claims against the City and the Hono lulu Liquor Commission.' Filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Hawaii in 2023, Waite's complaint had named HLC investigators Jacob Fears, Catherine Fontaine and Glen Nishigata as defendants in the case. The litigation alleged the trio, in their official and individual capacities, violated portions of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 as well as state laws related to discrimination against Waite. Waite—who had worked as a Honolulu liquor investigator starting in 2022 but later resigned—is gay and Filipino, the complaint stated. 'I think it is an appropriate agreement under the circumstances, ' DiPasquale said, adding that his client wanted to settle the case out of court. 'I think he was actually tired of the media. I think he was tired of the attention. He was very stressed. He wanted this to go away.' Meanwhile, the city's prior legal battle against Waite had amassed more legal fees for its hired law firm. In October the city requested the Council adopt Resolution 249, which sought an additional $115, 000 be appropriated to pay Kobayashi Sugita &Goda LLC to defend the city against the Waite civil lawsuit. On Oct. 9 the Council unanimously granted the city's funding request. The trial for Waite's civil litigation was set to begin in April, city officials said. Waite's jettisoned lawsuit follows a related 2021 federal complaint by a Chinatown nightclub and a guide to the islands catering to the LGBTQ + community that also led to a final settlement with the city in December, also involving DiPasquale as the plaintiff's attorney. That settlement agreement saw plaintiffs Scarlet Honolulu Inc. and Gay Island Guide LLC—who alleged anti -gay discrimination by investigators working for the HLC—receive $670, 000, and require mandated federal court oversight, among other reforms. Originally, the complaint had named two liquor commission investigators—Fears and Fontaine—who, along with other investigators working for the city, allegedly engaged in an 'ongoing campaign of unlawful, unconstitutional, and highly discriminatory anti-gay harassment of Scarlet, Gay Island Guide, and generally, the Honolulu LGBTQ + community ' that lasted more than six years, according to the complaint and attorney DiPasquale. After the city sought a motion to dismiss the Scarlet case in 2024, Chief U.S. District Judge Derrick K. Watson on Aug. 3, 2023, issued a 38-page order allowing the case to proceed to a bench trial. But the judge's prior ruling dismissed all claims against the two investigators, Fears and Fontaine, in their official capacities. Terms of the agreement involved changes to how Liquor Commission investigators operate as well as quarterly monitoring and reporting required to the court to oversee the status of implementation of those changes. This week, DiPasquale said his clients in the Scarlet case were also monitoring HLC and its supposed reforms. 'They got an opportunity to work with the new commissioner on a number of different things, ' he added, 'and they're happy with what they view as a legitimate desire to move things in the right direction.' Previously, Liquor Commission Administrator Sal Petilos told the Star -Advertiser his agency's reform efforts included a reorganization of the HLC's field services branch, increased and enhanced training for staff, and more funding for new applications and technologies to create the 'randomization of routine inspection and geolocation history data ' to deter bias among HLC investigators tasked with inspecting liquor-licensed businesses on Oahu. And as of May 1, HLC initiated a body-worn camera pilot program as a trial to document investigators' interactions with the licensed community, according to an agency news release. 'The intent is to increase transparency and accountability while building public trust and confidence in the Honolulu Liquor Commission, ' the April 17 release states. 'For the duration of the pilot program, no information collected will be used to issue warnings, violations, or any type of regulatory response.'
Yahoo
12-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Epic Golf Club Announces 2025 Epic Foundation Pro Am Event
Elite Golf Society Will Donate Funds to Three Deserving Nonprofits Through the Epic Foundation, Supporting Children and Families in Need SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., May 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Epic Golf Club, an elite private society connecting the world's most passionate golfers, has experienced remarkable growth and success since its launch in 2018 that has allowed them to give back to the community in many ways. Epic Golf Club has grown into a thriving organization with more than 1,000 members, 25 employees, and a global network spanning 46 states and 16 countries. Through its charitable arm the Epic Foundation, Epic Golf Club has raised and distributed nearly $400,000 to qualifying nonprofits since 2022. The Epic Foundation raises money through a variety of engaging fundraising strategies, with the most impactful being the annual Pro-Am tournament. The highly anticipated 2025 event is scheduled for August 25 at Deepdale Golf Club in Long Island, New York, with a 10 a.m. shotgun start and will close with a dinner and awards ceremony. Each team is made up of one professional and three amateur golfers. Registration for a foursome is $10,000 and includes a round of golf at Deepdale Golf Club, all food and beverage for the day and tee gifts. The event includes a $5,000 professional purse. "Our fourth annual Epic Golf Club Pro-Am Tournament is slated to be an enormous success, and we're honored to make a difference in the lives of so many in need," said Noah DiPasquale, founder and CEO of Epic Golf Club. "At Epic Foundation, we believe in the power of partnership and purpose. We're proud to raise funds and uplift charities that spark real, lasting change in our communities." "This exclusive event is uniquely open to the public—unlike Epic's other events, which are private and reserved for members only," said DiPasquale. DiPasquale envisioned the Epic Foundation as a platform to fundraise for deserving charities through private golf events and tournament sponsorships. By aligning with organizations whose objectives resonate with Epic Golf Club's values, Epic Foundation aims to amplify support and resources for these important causes. The Pro-Am features a number of engaging ways to raise money, including a "beat the pro" challenge on the course, a live online auction featuring golf trips, event tickets and sports memorabilia, as well as a 50/50 raffle. "The nonprofits that the Epic Foundation has chosen to support all do incredible work to support children and families in need," said DiPasquale. Folds of Honor helps provide educational scholarships to families of fallen or disabled service members and first responders. Youth on Course provides young people with access to life-changing opportunities through golf, including the opportunity to play rounds of golf for $5 or less at thousands of golf courses in the U.S., Canada, and Australia. HopeKids provides events, activities and support for families who have a child with a life-threatening medical condition. In 2024, the event was held in the Hamptons, bringing together golf enthusiasts, professionals, and philanthropic individuals who share the common goal of making a positive impact in the lives of others. If you would like to attend, you can register for the event here: For more information about Epic Golf Club, please visit the website, or follow on Instagram @epicgolfclub. About Epic FoundationEpic Foundation ( is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded by Epic Golf Club. The foundation aims to raise monetary donations through private golfing events and tournament sponsorships to support organizations that align closely with its mission. By leveraging the power of golf and the generosity of individuals, Epic Foundation strives to make a positive and lasting impact in the community. About Epic Golf ClubEpic Golf Club is a private golf society headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., that brings together individuals who share a passion for golf to play the best private golf courses in the world. Founded in 2018 by Noah DiPasquale, Epic Golf Club has evolved into a prestigious organization with nearly 1,000 members. With privileges to 80 of the top 100 golf courses in the United States and a unique reciprocal membership model, Epic Golf Club offers its members unparalleled opportunities to play at the finest clubs, creating a network of golfing elite. For more information, visit View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Epic Golf Club Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
01-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
DiPasquale, O'Malley to face off in 3rd Ward Republican primary
Two Republican candidates are destined to face off in a primary for the 3rd Ward alderman's seat. Joe DiPasquale and Rowland O'Malley, both graduates of Lockport High School, have declared themselves candidates for the seat, with incumbent Mark Devine choosing not to run again. DiPasquale previously ran for New York's 144th state Assembly District in 2018 as a Democrat, losing to Mike Norris. 'I decided to switch parties,' DiPasquale said. 'I'm thrilled that I have. There was more opportunity in serving, I felt. And I think serving is serving, regardless of the letter by your name. What matters most is understanding your constituents. The party has been warm and embracing.' DiPasquale said he was motivated to run for alderman because of his interest in revitalizing the 3rd Ward. 'It's the gateway from the west and it should look better,' he said. 'We really should have just spruced up that side of town with the canal anniversary. This is very important to me because I live here.' He said abandoned buildings at the split of Park Avenue and West Avenue need to be addressed. O'Malley said he joined the race for 3rd Ward alderman because he wants to find ways to raise the tax base, provide housing, address empty buildings, and improve parks. 'It's not about raising taxes,' O'Malley said. 'It's about figuring out what we can go do to generate new tax dollars in the city. What can we do to support the businesses we have.' DiPasquale does see the potential to recruit new businesses to the city. 'In terms of the economic growth, I see plenty of opportunity for the city,' he said. 'Let's throw the net out and see and who we can attract.' He said he would like to recruit Paula's Donuts to the west side and envisions a Barnes & Noble downtown. The west side has had its share of environmental concerns, and DiPasquale said he was an effective advocate for the area. He said by speaking out, he made sure that several industrial sites, including Simons Saw and Steel on Ohio Street, and Candlelight Cabinetry on Park Avenue, were on the federal government's agenda. 'We underestimate our voices,' DiPasquale said. 'I met with the Army Corps project manager several times about the clean up of radioactivity,' at Simons. DiPasquale said emissions from Candlelight Cabinetry were an important issue to the community. Referring to odors from the company, he said, 'I think it contributed to the decline and eventual closure of more than one restaurant on the west side.' He said he was able to get the state Department of Environmental Conservation involved, which reduced emissions. O'Malley said during the petition process for candidacy he learned about the ward's priorities. 'When I went around and got signatures from people, I heard a lot about empty buildings — empty homes and empty businesses.' He said this includes the vacant former Eastern Niagara Hospital complex. O'Malley said code enforcement is another issue he would explore. 'I've been asked by a lot of taxpayers about houses with gutters falling down. We should do the best we can do to get answers for them. And I think that's been a challenge for them.' 'Every community is challenged with potholes,' he said. 'Everybody deals with it. Let's deal with the experts who deal with asphalt work to see what we can do for preventive maintenance. How fast do we need to get on it? I think it got very difficult to keep up with it.' A former TV and movie producer in Los Angeles, DiPasquale said he moved back to Lockport and became a professor of film studies at the University of Buffalo. He said his professional experience can transfer to the city office. 'With students, you have to relate to every person individually to be effective,' he said. 'And the fiscal responsibility of producing a film for a network — you're handling a $3 million budget.' As general manager at Lockport's Town and Country Club, O'Malley said he has experience with a wide range of issues that aldermen encounter. He said he has routinely dealt with remodeling projects, plumbing, sewers, irrigation systems, green maintenance, and upkeep of storage buildings. 'I'm in the golf course and country club business that touches on all these things.' He said he has dealt with both the town and city because the country club's property is split between them. 'We deal with most of your government agencies,' he said. With 400 dues-paying country club members, O'Malley said it's like interacting with taxpayers. 'When they ask me something, I always keep track of it,' he said. 'And I follow up when people need something.'
CBS News
08-04-2025
- Business
- CBS News
Maryland grocers are dealing with unknown impacts of tariffs on produce, imported items
Maryland grocers say they are bracing for the unknown impact of the Trump administration's tariffs on produce , coffee, and other imported items. Joseph DiPasquale, owner of DiPasquale's Italian Market in Brewers Hill, says there is too much uncertainty to predict how it will impact business. "We're anticipating it, but we have to operate and we have to make adjustments," DiPasquale told WJZ. As of Tuesday, it was still business as usual at DiPasquale's, which has been in business for 110 years in Baltimore's Highlandtown and Brewers Hill neighborhoods. Right now, the store is bracing for price hikes from vendors, but says it is committed to bringing customers items they can afford. "The produce is an instant purchase," DiPasquale said. "It's almost twice a day purchasing, so it's the first thing that's going to be affected. You can't wait on produce." Experts warn produce could be one of the first items to increase in price. According to the USDA , 60% of agricultural imports come from Mexico, Canada and the European Union. All of these nations have been slapped with tariffs in the last week. DiPasquale's relies on imported goods, which comprise 75% of the products on the shelves. The eggplants were grown in Mexico, while some of the tomatoes were grown in Canada. Some of the shelf products come straight from Europe, including Italy and Spain. DiPasquale says if the tariffs begin to impact the bottom line, he may purchase more products from the United States. "We will adapt," DiPasquale said. "We will seek out the right-priced items, so they can either substitute so they have an alternative. We'll do our work on our end." Meanwhile, the market was packed at lunch hour on Tuesday, selling both grocery items and meals made in the store. Brooke Kaine, a customer, says he hasn't felt the impact of the tariffs yet, but he is concerned for neighbors on fixed incomes. "It's hard to think that things aren't going to go up," Kaine said. "I think it's particularly scary for someone that's in our age cohort, Baby Boomers, who are on fixed incomes. It is a very scary place where you don't know with all the cuts and all the tariffs and all the uncertainty. I think it's a bad spot right now."
CBS News
27-02-2025
- CBS News
Video shows DiPasquale's renowned sign ripped off Highlandtown building
BALTIMORE — DiPasquale's, a longtime family-owned restaurant and Baltimore staple, needs help finding who stole their well-known sign early Thursday morning. The old DiPasquale's Italian Deli building turned speakeasy restaurant has been in operation for more than 100 years in Baltimore's Highlandtown neighborhood. The hand painted, laminated sign is said to have been hanging in front of the Di Pasquale family business since 1988. "I don't know, it's just strange," said Domenico Santino Di Pasquale, the fourth generation business owner. "About four years ago, we moved from here to Brewers Hill to where it is now and then about a month ago, we reopened this original location." Video obtained by WJZ shows someone ripping the sign off the building. Video camera footage In security camera footage obtained by WJZ from neighbors, you can see the moment someone stole the decades-old sign off the front of the building around 4:45 a.m. on Thursday. In the video, you can hear a loud noise as the unidentified person rips the sign off the brick wall in seconds. Then, you see the dark figure on the right side of the camera walk off with the sign towards Eaton Street. Neighbors, who did not want to be on camera, said the sign theft is strange since crime has gone down in their neighborhood. "And it's just sad because the Di Pasquale sign has been there forever," a neighbor said. "It's definitely part of the neighborhood and part of the local culture." Di Pasquale said he wants the person who took the sign to bring it back. "It's a part of my family history, and you know, you can't get that back," Di Pasquale said. The old deli was once an old hardware store. It's allegedly the same building mob boss Al Capone worked in when he lived in Baltimore. Di Pasquale said he is in the process of filling a police report, but if anyone knows anything, they should call police. "It's strange" Di Pasquale was going about his day when he noticed the sign was missing from the old Di Pasquale's Italian deli building along Gough Street. "I was just doing my daily routine and was just walking up this ramp here, and then I walked past it first, and then I looked and saw the sign was missing," said Di Pasquale, the manager at FORNO and Di Pasquale's Italian Market. The old deli building recently reopened in January as FORNO, a new speakeasy. It pays homage to the building's history all while serving pizza, cocktails and small bites. Di Pasquale opened the speakeasy with his friend Joey Faiola. Di Pasquale posted on social media hoping someone can help his family find the iconic sign. "It's been with us for a while," Di Pasquale said.
