A storm is building in the central Pacific while Hawaii picks up federal money for its power grid — mixed news for island residents.

• Tropical Storm Iona is strengthening far east-southeast of Hilo and is expected to become a hurricane over the weekend as it turns west.
• Hawaii is getting $18.5 million in federal money to harden the power grid on Maui, Hawaii Island, and Oahu, aiming for fewer and shorter outages.
• A new "tap to pay" charity scam is hitting shoppers: fake fundraisers punch in a much bigger amount than you agreed to before you tap.
• Cuisinart is recalling all its wire bristle grill brushes sold since 2009 after metal bristles broke off into food and sent three people for treatment.
• Dolly Parton's death has pushed her streams to record highs and revived attention on the toll of caring for a sick spouse, after years spent caring for her late husband.

Outlook: Forecasters expect the storm to reach hurricane strength within days, so islanders should prepare now rather than wait.