Community

Hawai‘i joins the nation this year in observing the annual Smokeout today (Nov. 20), and Hawaiʻi Department of Health encourages island residents to use this date to quit — even if it is for a day.

The holidays are officially upon us as we head into Thanksgiving week, and the top 10 definitely reflects the most wonderful time of the year, with several events celebrating Turkey Day 2025 and another holiday market. Be sure to check them out now!

“Time is of the essence when a tsunami threatens Hawai‘i Island, so we encourage everyone living, working or learning in coastal areas to know and practice their escape routes,” said Hawaiʻi County Mayor Kimo Alameda.

There will be two Big Island locations community members can find the big red vending machines to donate to people in need; one will be at Prince Kūhiō Plaza in Hilo and the other at Queens’ Marketplace in Waikōloa.

Funds are part of a total $120,000 the organization granted to several nonprofits throughout the islands; Food Basket to use award to help fulfill food security needs of Big Island residents coping with increasing prices.

“By bringing the Family Resource Center directly into our communities, we’re able to meet families where they are, offer immediate assistance and build relationships that strengthen the well-being of our keiki and ʻohana.” — Neighborhood Place of Puna Executive Director Paul Normann

Dr. Michael Aronowitz hosting Game Night with Lasting Benefits this weekend that will teach participants some of the skills and tools needed to sustain any kind of connection.

Gaseous pillars and a sparkling star cluster, reminiscent of rain in ʻōhiʻa forests, featured in the image from Gemini North telescope atop Mauna Kea on the Big Island.

While all the spots are filled for wreath-making, there is still plenty of native flora that will be available for free during the Laʻau Love Fest at the West Hawaiʻi Civic Center on Saturday.

Secondary traffic crashes are the No. 1 cause of death nationwide for emergency responders.

While the longest federal government shutdown in the nation’s history ended last week, many residents continue to face financial strain as they await delayed pay and benefits.

The meeting is slated for 4 p.m. Nov. 25 at the Pāhoa Neighborhood Facility, located at 15-0322 Kauhale St., in Pāhoa.

Employees donate rice for local food banks; holiday recipe contest celebrates cooking with local ingredients

Hawaiʻi County Department of Water Supply also reports that water service has been restored to all affected customers.

The new speed limits will be effective when sign installations are complete.

Kona Community Hospital saw about 155 stroke cases through its Emergency Department in the past year.

Hōkūleʻa and Hikianalia will remain in Aotearoa for six months, which will allow the canoes to wait out the South Pacific hurricane season before continuing the Moananuiākea Voyage.

Dr. Aurora Leikula Papali‘i will oversee 22 employees and guide strategic planning, program development and community partnerships throughout the region.

Local residents clash over “Falls on Fire,” a festival that has been held for three years on the Big Island without a required permit — and that has passionate supporters and opponents.

19 projects were awarded funding this year through the Department of Research and Development grant program that is intended to support research, programs or projects that advance measurable positive economic, environmental and equitable impacts for island residents.