West Hawai‘i News
Firecrackers Go on Sale Thursday; HFD Offers Safety Tips
The Hawaii Fire Department offers safety tips and reminds the public about the law regarding the use of firecracker as well as safety tips.
Ban on Under-21 Tobacco Sales Begins in July
Mayor Billy Kenoi said he was endorsing the bill for the good of the community and especially children.
Police Release Dec. 20 List of Arrest Warrants
The Hawaii Police Department has released its weekly list of some of the individuals wanted on outstanding warrants.
Former Hilo Man Pleads Guilty to Wire Fraud
Justin Wade Smith, who stole more than $1 million by making false claims, faces up to 41 years in prison when he is sentenced in March.
High Surf Closes West Hawaii Beaches
County lifeguards reported surf up to 15 feet in height was occurring today at Hapuna Beach where waves were washing up to the vegetation line.
40 Million Credit Cards Stolen From Target
State consumer protection officials are offering tips for those who may have been the victim of identify theft.
CDC to Collect Health Data on Native Hawaiians
The federal study will be the first nationally to differentiate Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders from Asian categories.
Kealakehe a Finalist in Consumer Education Competition
The Kona high school is among four vying to represent Hawaii in the national LifeSmarts Competition to be held in Florida in May.
Mayor to Sign Bill Restricting Tobacco Sales
When it takes effect next year, the new law will prohibit sales of tobacco products, including electronic cigarettes, to those under 21.
UPDATE: Senate Passes Budget Without Hawaii Fee Exemption
The state’s Senate and House members said the more than doubling of the airline fee disproportionately affects residents of Hawaii and Alaska.
UPDATE: Flash Flood Watch Upgraded to Advisory
A low pressure system is bringing cool temperatures and heavy rainfall to the Big Island and Maui.
First Four Families Receive Homes in Kamakoa Nui
The low-income workforce housing project in Waikoloa is expected to eventually have 1,200 fee-simple and rental homes.
Lawsuit Seeks to Stop Naval Training Plan
The environmental law firm Earthjustice is challenging the National Marine Fisheries Service’s approval of naval training.
Traffic Deaths Down by a Third Over Last Year
There have been 25 traffic fatalities on the Big Island so far this year — including eight in the first six weeks — compared to 37 at this time in 2012.
Food Poisoning Confirmed as Source of Illnesses at Oahu School
Spaghetti cooked the previous day and improperly reheated was determined to be the cause of the illness that struck dozens at the Leeward Oahu School Dec. 10.
North Hawaii Hospital to Formalize Ties With Queen’s
The agreement will improve “every aspect” of North Hawaii Community Hospital, the chairman of its board of directors said.
New Rules to Protect West Hawaii Marine Resources
The regulations signed this weekend by the governor put new limits on the taking of aquarium fish in leeward waters of the Big Island.
Police Looking for Missing Hilo Girl
Brianna Kehaulani Freitas-Jones hasn’t been seen by her family since Nov. 18.
Land Board Defers Mauna Kea Lease Extension Request
The issue of new leases for astronomy purposes on the mountain will be the subject of an EIS. Meanwhile, a judge heard challenges to a new telescope there.
