Community

Registration open now for winter classes at Kahilu Theatre in Waimea

In addition to the regular slate of youth programs — such as Waimea Youth Chorus, Creative Drama, Center Stage and others — this winter’s offerings include classes designed especially for kūpuna and adults interested in creative expression, movement and community connection.

University of Hawaiʻi study reveals critical new details about diversity of ocean’s most abundant bacteria

Understanding SAR11 marine bacteria is vital because they are one of the main drivers of the global ocean’s life-support system; they move and recycle the carbon and nutrients that sustain all other marine life.

‘Ohina Labs 2025 Greenlight Award winner announced

‘Shop Local’ by Katelyn Chong was selected as the winning short film script during the first year the annual intensive workshop was paired with ‘Ohina’s inaugural Producers Lab.

8 lane closures scheduled during week of Jan. 3-9 on Big Island state roadways

Lane closure schedules can change at any time without notice. All projects are weather permitting.

More than $50K in scholarships available from for Hawaiʻi Rise Foundation for Big Island students

Local sponsors step forward each year to create scholarships that reflect their own values, journeys and hopes for the next generation — and 2026 marks the program’s most generous year yet.

Registration opens for East Hawaiʻi Jr. NBA/WNBA youth basketball leagues

The season is scheduled to run from Feb. 23 through May 14 and includes divisions for players ages 8–10, 11–12 and 13–14.

Enter your little hooper in Cutest Pet baller contest for chance to win $3,000 grand prize

One nation. Infinite pets. Only one baller-in-chief. The Action Network and Better Collective USA invite everyone to enter; deadline is 5:59 p.m. Jan. 16.

Hawai’i rings in 2026 with birth of first New Year’s baby

At 3:59 a.m. on New Year’s Day, Hawaii’s first baby of 2026 made his debut at Kaiser Permanente Moanalua Medical Center.

Monk seal finds shady spot under beach chairs along Maui’s North Shore

On Monday, a monk seal was observed moving quickly up a crowded beach along Maui’s North Shore, where it settled about 20 feet from beachgoers.

Hawaiʻi Police Department promotes 23-year veteran Lt. William Derr to rank of captain

After years of improving relationships between police and the community as a whole, Lt. William Derr has been promoted to captain for the North Kohala District beginning today.

Top 10 things to do on Big Island for Jan. 2-8: Live in the Lobby, envisioning 2026 possibilities, getting funky and more

The most wonderful time of year has come and gone, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do around the island. There just isn’t as much hustle and bustle as there was in December; so take some time to relax and enjoy yourself instead of running around on all those busy sidewalks.

First 5 Hawaiʻi website: New statewide eligibility screener for families launches

Online resource platform aims to strengthen early childhood and family support throughout the islands.

First Sugar Showdown Gingerbread House Building Contest a resounding success

More than 50 keiki — accompanied by their parents and guardians — gathered Dec. 17 for a festive evening of gingerbread house building and decorating; It was an evening filled with smiles, laughter, frosting and holiday spirit.

Waikōloa Village Evacuation Traffic Study public meeting scheduled early next month

The meeting is an opportunity for residents to provide input and learn about the federally funded study, which is intended to mitigate the risk of harm to people and property in fire-vulnerable Waikōloa Village area.

Dr. Billy Bergin — keeper of the paniolo spirit — named Living Treasure of Hawai‘i

The Waimea veterinarian, rancher and historian — who founded the Paniolo Preservation Society and authored the acclaimed ‘Loyal to the Land’ book series — joins the ranks of those who have enriched Hawai‘i’s cultural, artistic and humanitarian landscape.

County announces early park closures for New Year’s Eve

Hawai‘i County Parks and Recreation appreciates the public’s understanding and anticipates resuming normal operations New Year’s Day, Jan. 1, 2026.

The top stories on the Big Island for 2025

Kīlaueaʻs dramatic episodic eruption, the unexpected death of the Hawaiʻi County Fire Chief and a new hospital for West Hawai‘i were among the top news of the year.

4-time Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award winner Kawaʻa releases debut solo album ‘Mānaiakalani’

Maui native, Grammy nominee and top 20 finalist on Season 25 of NBC’s “The Voice” features 13 Hawaiian mele on his new album, including original compositions and select favorites, honoring the people, places and moments that shaped him throughout his life and musical journey.

Classical music festival brings well-rounded art experiences to Big Island next week

Big Island residents can engage with world-class talent and enjoy performances by local and international artists with the Hawaiʻi International Music Festival from Jan. 4 to Jan. 12, 2026

HPD updates email address to enhance security and identify official messages

The Hawaiʻi Police Department has transitioned its email domain to @hawaiipolice.gov, improving security and helping ensure accurate communication.
Load More Articles