News
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.
Hawaiʻi County Council passes bill to restrict single-use plastic foodware, serviceware
While several supporters testified in favor of the bill, business owners, the Department of Environmental Management and Mayor Kimo Alameda expressed economic and waste management concerns.
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.
Leaders in tourism, public safety to tackle safety challenges during annual conference
The 8th annual Visitor Public Safety Conference on Jan. 7, 2026 in Honolulu will feature panels on emergency management, safety solutions and financial crimes against visitors.
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.
‘No parking’ signs go up by new development along busy roadway in Kona
Bill 109 would end parking on Hina Lani Street for about a three-mile stretch, from Queen Ka‘ahumanu Highway to Anini Street.
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.
UPDATE: Brown water advisory lifted for Hilo Bay, Hāmākua Coast 22 days after issued
Hawaiʻi Department of Health originally issued the advisory Nov. 10 because of high surf, heavy rain resulting in stormwater runoff into the bay and along the coast.
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.
UPDATE: Hawai‘i Fire Department reports multi-structure fire in downtown Hilo now contained
However, incident area remains dangerous and can present hazardous conditions to the general public; all streets in downtown Hilo are also now open.
65-year-old missing nearly 2 days, in need of medication; can you help find him?
Anyone who knows the whereabouts or has information that can help safely locate William Roscoe is urged to call 9-1-1 or the Hawai‘i Police Department.
