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University of Hawaiʻi to lead new Pacific reef research institute
“This new institute combines [University of Hawaiʻi]’s strengths in cutting-edge, ocean-related research and our collaborative, place-based approach to working with resource managers throughout Hawaiʻi and the Pacific to protect our vital coral reefs,” said University of Hawaiʻi Interim Vice President for Research and Innovation Chad Walton.
New podcast spotlights Hawaiʻi Island ʻōpio choosing to build future at home
Vibrant Hawaiʻi is introducing the podcast this year with renewed intention — to challenge the long-standing narrative that Hawaiʻi’s most promising ʻōpio must leave the island to succeed.
NTSB releases preliminary findings on Airborne Aviation helicopter crash that killed 3, seriously injured 2 on Kauai’s North Shore
The preliminary report by the National Transportation Safety Board did not provide a cause of the crash, but said the pilot reported severe vibrations and loss of directional control while making a turn.
Waimea to host 3-day art fair featuring ‘Signs of Spring’ contest
Discover the vibrant world of local art at the Big Island Art Fair in Waimea, taking place April 23 to 25 at Kahilu Town Hall.
Donʻt get hooked: University of Hawaiʻi Maui College presents real-life phishing stories
“Phishing remains the most effective attack method in 2026 because it targets the one element that can’t be easily patched: people,” said University of Hawaiʻi Chief Information Officer Jodi Ito.
Hawaiʻi Coffee Association works on strategic plan, welcomes new executive director
Abigail Munoz with Monarch Coffee was unanimously elected by the board, “and she was absolutely the right person for this role,” said Hawaiʻi Coffee Association President Ryson Nakamasu.
Express yourself via short letter, small card during National Card and Letter Writing Month
U.S. Postal Service encourages customers to “mail a little more often,” and special occasions such as Mother’s Day, Father’s Day or other personally significant moments present an ideal opportunity to combine thoughtful expression with written communication.
Kanakaʻole, Zane ʻohana transform Hawaiian cultural practices into captivating visual arts
Bishop Museum on Oʻahu will feature the works of Nālani Kanakaʻole, Sig Zane, Kūhaʻoʻīmaikalani Zane, whose creative practices are deeply rooted in hula ʻaihaʻa.
Direct2UH gets $400K boost from national grant program aimed at simplifying path to college
Building on the success of Direct2UH — the direct admissions initiative launched in October 2025 that offers free entry to Hawaiʻi public high school seniors based on their grade-point average — the grant will fund a unified admissions system with enhanced outreach and guidance.
22 lane closures scheduled during week of April 18-24 on Big Island state roadways
Lane closure schedules can change at any time without notice. All projects are weather permitting.
Big Island Now news briefs for April 18: National Native Plant Month, Jams World 2026 Chat Collection, Grace to retire
A quick look at news happening throughout the island, state and nation.
26-year-old scuba diver from Honolulu victim of possible drowning at Honokōhau Harbor
Big Island police initiated a coroner’s inquest and ordered an autopsy to determine the exact cause of Charles Hutchinson’s death; no foul play is suspected at this time after the O‘ahu man became distressed when he encountered difficulty while diving April 15 in the Kona harbor.
Hawai‘i County firefighters doing water drops on brush fire in Kona
As of 3:17 p.m., 20 to 25 firefighters were on scene, and chopper crews were still conducting water drops on the blaze that has burned approximately 4 to 5 acres.
3-hour snorkel tour turns violent; Big Island boat captain stabbed and 21-year-old arrested
Passengers onboard a vessel restrained Avery Nissen, 21, after he reportedly stabbed the captain of a boat while on a 3-hour snorkel tour.
Switch to natural gas offers only modest gains, but big risks for Hawaiʻi energy costs
New University of Hawaiʻi Economic Research Organization report finds that while natural gas is often far cheaper than oil on the mainland United States, Hawaiʻi faces higher costs because the fuel must be cooled, shipped across the ocean and converted back into gas.
Big Island Spring Classic happening this weekend at Waikōloa Beach and Golf Resort
Keiki will be coming throughout the state to compete on Hawai‘i Island.
Relief available to Hawai‘i businesses, private nonprofits, and residents affected by Kona low storms
These loans are in response to the Presidential disaster declaration issued on April 7, which covers Physical Damage loans and Economic Injury Disaster loans.
Zonta local, international STEM awards given to University of Hawai‘i student
Danielle Bartz, doctorate candidate in marine biology at University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, was first awarded the $2,000 STEM Award from Zonta Club of Hilo, advancing her to the international level, where she won the $10,000 2026 Zonta International Women in STEM Award.
Consumer Alert: Public warned about investment scams on Meta platforms
These scams include pump-and-dump scams, confidence scams and fraudulent cryptocurrency schemes that take advantage of victims to extract as much money from them as possible.
2026 Big Island Chocolate Festival debuts free Chocolate Farmers Market, promises sweet shindig
The new event showcases local cacao growers and chocolate makers; 3-day festival also includes educational activities, farm tour, college student chocolate competition, grand gala and much more.
