Hawai'i State News

Department of Education to open A+ after-school program registration

Ensure eligibility documents are ready for the after-school program registration on April 22.

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.

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.

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.

Temporary waiver allows SNAP users to purchase hot food for next four weeks

In response to the March 2026 Kona Low weather events, the USDA has approved a temporary waiver allowing Hawaiʻi’s SNAP users to purchase hot foods until May 16.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Volcano Watch: Fountains and festivities; Kīlauea erupts Episode 44 as Merrie Monarch begins

Comparing different eruptions can be a bit like comparing apples to oranges. But no matter how you compare, the ongoing eruption made an impression in terms of its longevity, with two active vents and impacts to areas downwind, including the changing topography of the summit.

Several grad programs at University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa earn national recognition

Ten programs are in the nation’s top 50, and an additional 17 are in the top 100, as ranked by the 2026 U.S. News and World Report’s Best Graduate Schools.

Hawaiʻi prevails: Federal case seeking to block state’s fossil fuel claims dismissed

A decisive ruling by U.S. District Court for the District of Hawaiʻi agreed with Hawai‘i’s argument that the United States lacks standing to sue for hypothetical allegations that imposing liability on fossil fuel companies will have some harmful future effects on the federal government.

Residents displaced by kona low storms can connect with housing, recovery support via Aloha United Way 211

Partnership with the state and Airbnb supports eligible households impacted by severe storms in March, including damages from winds, thunderstorms and extreme flooding.

Big Island’s top student readers test their memory, teamwork in annual Quiz Bowl

“The Quiz Bowl was created for kids that have reading tattooed on their forehead,” said David Giff, chair of the Heluhelu Quiz Bowl steering committee. “They are avid readers who happen to be quite competitive.

Federal aid unlocked for Hawaiʻi following severe Kona low storms

As FEMA collaborates with state and county officials, residents are urged to apply for assistance by June 7 to gain access to essential support and resources.

Gov. Green appoints Michael Ratcliffe to fill House vacancy

Michael “Cov” Ratcliffe is now serving as the state representative for House District 28, filling a vacancy left by former Rep. Daniel Holt.
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