In Case You Missed It
Flags ordered to half-staff on anniversary of bombing of Pearl Harbor attack
This pivotal moment in global history marked the United States’ entry into World War II after the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor on O‘ahu on Dec. 7, 1941.
Volcano Watch: Tracking the growth of a new puʻu at Kīlauea, southwest of Halemaʻumaʻu
Hawaiian Volcano Observatory has been busy tracking the continued growth of this young geologic feature, which is visible from public viewing areas around the summit within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.
Hawaiʻi County awarded $1.9M grant for Puapuaʻa Iki Habitat Restoration Project
The initiative aims to restore native ecosystems, preserve historic and cultural sites and strengthen community resilience against climate impacts such as erosion, flooding and sea level rise at Puapuaʻa Iki, a parcel of land in Kona.
Honolulu Cookie Company, Hawaiian Airlines team up for sweet surprise to delight of travelers
The Hawai’i-based brands partnered to give some extra aloha and holiday cheer to people on several flights Thursday (Dec. 4) by greeting them with complimentary peppermint macadamia cookies on World Cookie Day.
Popular cheese products recalled for potential bacterial contamination
The recalled cheese products are from the Locatelli, Boar’s Head and Member’s Mark brands sold through Sam’s Club and Foodland in Hawai‘i, which were potentially contaminated with the bacteria that causes listeriosis.
30 holiday events around Big Island from Dec. 4-11: Seasonal markets, tree lightings, parades and more — even snow in Kona
It seems as the island is in a very festive mood already this holiday season — and we do mean very; from traditional things to do to several events that are new, there are myriad ways to get into the holiday spirit during the upcoming week. Check them out now!
Measles virus detected in Maui County’s wastewater surveillance
Measles detected in wastewater likely means that someone infected with the virus was present in the area, but this testing cannot determine whether the virus is alive, infectious, or when it was shed.
Gov. Green advocates for $50 million in state funding for new outpatient medical facility in Kona
The new outpatient medical facility in Kona is meant to be a companion to the planned $400 to $500 million hospital to be built by Queen’s Health Systems.
State sues TikTok parent company, alleging social media giant harming keiki, misleading public
Hawaiʻi’s lawsuit alleges TikTok deliberately exploited its users for economic gain; it’s main objective to build on compulsive use, structuring the platform to keep users engaged as long as possible.
2025 Suzanne Richmond-Crum Award winner honored on World AIDS Day
Kunane Dreier is this year’s winner, tabbed and celebrated for his outstanding contributions to HIV services in Hawai‘i.
Pohai advances to ‘Hawai‘i to the World’ finale
Hawai‘i Island singing group will compete Dec. 14 for title of top act in the televised talent competition celebrating Hawai‘i’s next generation of artists, musicians, dancers and creators, plus a $10,000 grand prize.
Act now, don’t miss your chance; tickets for 63rd annual Merrie Monarch Festival on sale
It’s that time of year — an even more most wonderful time for everyone who enjoys hula and hālau that perform. Ticket request forms postmarked Dec. 1 or later are being accepted for the 2026 “Super Bowl of Hula.”
‘This is life-changing’: Largest number of homeless veterans in 7 years housed by Veterans Affairs
Veterans Affairs Pacific Islands Health Care System helped house 459 veterans locally during fiscal year 2025.
SNAP benefits in jeopardy again as Trump threatens to freeze funds for Democratic-controlled states
Trump’s administration says funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, also still commonly referred to as food stamps, would not be distributed starting next week unless those states give up information about benefit recipients.
Kona Brewers Festival returns in March 2026
The 31st installment of the popular community event will once again feature an outstanding lineup of craft brews, culinary creations from local chefs, live entertainment and aloha, now under the leadership of Rotary Clubs of West Hawaiʻi.
UPDATE: County officials restore beach access after high surf advisory is lifted
The National Weather Service has canceled the high surf advisory for the north and west-facing shores of Hawaiʻi Island, allowing all previously closed beach parks to reopen.
Hilo lose businesses, homes and loved ones in tragic fires over the weekend
“This is a reminder that tomorrow is never promised and to tell your loved ones that you love them because we never know what may happen and in a blink of an eye everything can be taken from you.” — Raquela Benevides
Hilo fires over Thanksgiving weekend raise alarm about safety of county’s aging buildings, infrastructure
Hawaiʻi County Fire Chief Kazuo Todd said the fires are not connected and are under investigation.
Lawmakers to discuss scams, fraud crimes ahead of holiday season
During the briefing, the committee will also explore ideas aimed at reducing fraud crimes in Hawaiʻi, especially those targeting kūpuna.
Applications now open for Young Women in Leadership Award from Zonta Club
Eligible applicants should show a dedication to volunteerism, experience in local or student government, workplace leadership (paid or unpaid), and meaningful volunteer leadership achievements.
