East Hawai‘i News
Kindergarten Now Mandatory for 5-Year-Olds in Hawaii
The new law, which will be in effect for the upcoming school year, applies to children turning 5 years old by July 31.
UPDATE: Weather Service Cancels Flood Advisory for Big Isle
Areas such as Hamakua and Hilo received more than four inches of rain since 11 p.m. Wednesday.
Help Sought Solving Kona Store Robbery Last Weekend
The pair of robbers entered the store on Kuakini Highway at about 3 a.m. Saturday, took cash and cigarettes and then fled on foot.
Honoka`a Teenager Missing For Two Years Located
Abcidy Santos, who had been reported missing from her home in February 2012, was located today in good health.
Company Indicted for Release of Contaminated Water on Oahu
Waste Management of Hawaii, which also operates a Big Island landfill, has been accused of criminal conduct in its management of the Waimanalo Gulch landfill.
Gabbard Hosting Virtual Town Hall Meeting Thursday
The event hosted on her Facebook page and website provides an opportunity for live online discussions through social media profiles.
Obama Unsuccessful in Urging Senate to Follow Hawaii’s Lead
The president failed in an attempt today to sway Senate Republicans to abandon their filibuster blocking a bill to increase the federal minimum wage to $10.10.
Public Invited to Police Week ‘Run to Honor’ May 17
The event at Liliuokalani Gardens in Hilo will feature a 5K run, 2-mile walk and a keiki “Fun Run.”
Waters of Life Named State’s Top Charter School
The Mountain View school was among the state’s top public schools last year and continues its exemplary performance, charter school network officials say.
Bill to Battle Little Fire Ants Dies in Committee
Supporters of Senate Bill 2920 could not secure funding for the bill to pay for a pilot program in Hawaii County parks and a canine ant-detection team.
Bill Targets School Superintendent Salary Cap
Supporters say the superintendent’s pay in Hawaii is the lowest in the nation for comparable districts, and raising the cap will help in future hiring.
Lawmakers Move Toward Election-Day Voter Registration
Those looking to register to vote on election day wouldn’t need proof of residency, but providing false information would be considered a felony.
Cannabis Minister Roger Christie Sentenced to Five Years
The term, to be served concurrently with two one-year sentences for failing to file a tax return, was the minimum sentence allowed under his plea agreement.
UPDATE: Police Identify Body Found Saturday in Hilo
Police said Jodi L. Masutomi, 48, of Hilo sustained injuries consistent with a fall from a height.
State Budget Includes Slight Increase in TAT for Counties
Various Big Island projects, including funds for a Puna regional library, are included in the budget that still needs a final vote and the governor’s signature.
Pair Featured in Surveillance Video Surrenders to Police
The two were shown in images circulated by police on April 21 and turned themselves into police on April 22.
Police Release April 25 List of Arrest Warrants
The Hawaii Police Department has released its weekly list of some of the individuals wanted on outstanding warrants.
Keaau Store Workers Discover Snake in Shipping Container
The employees whacked the 2-foot-long non-venomous gopher snake on the head to prevent its escape.
Lawmakers Agree on Funding for Pharmacy School Building
House and Senate members of the budget conference committee have agreed to provide $33 million for a new facility at the University of Hawaii at Hilo.
Judge Rules Farmer ‘John Doe’ Can’t Remain Anonymous
The papaya farmer who is a plaintiff in a lawsuit challenging a county GMO registration requirement must reveal his identity to remain in the lawsuit.
