Latest News
HILO Woman Cited for Feeding Nēnē in Hilo Park
By Big Island Times | May 1, 2024
DLNR News Release – HILO WOMAN CITED FOR FEEDING NĒNĒ IN HILO PARK, May 1, 2024Doreen Torres was issued two citations for violating state endangered and threatened species laws which prohibit the feeding of protected wildlife, since nēnē may eat the cat food. Torres is scheduled to appear in Hilo District Court on June 21 for the misdemeanors she is charged with.The incident occurred at Queen Liliʻuokalani Park, where the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) has expressed concerns over the feeding of cats in public spaces. The DLNR's news release also...
Senators reintroduce Access to Birth Control Act, aiming for nationwide coverage
By Big Island Times | May 1, 2024
U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), along with Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Patty Murray (D-WA), and 21 other colleagues, has reintroduced the Access to Birth Control Act. This legislation aims to ensure patients' timely access to birth control at pharmacies across the nation. The bill addresses the issue of pharmacies refusing contraception, thereby hindering patients from obtaining their preferred form of birth control medication. U.S. Representative Robin Kelly (D-IL) has introduced companion legislation in the House.
Senators introduce legislation to restore voting rights for formerly incarcerated individuals
By Big Island Times | Apr 30, 2024
U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) has joined forces with Senator Laphonza Butler (D-CA) and ten other colleagues to introduce the Next Step Home Act. This legislation is aimed at restoring voting rights for individuals with felony convictions who have been released under the First Step Act and have successfully reintegrated into society.
Hirono, Colleagues Urge ABA to Examine Impact of Legal History Disclosure Requirements on Survivors of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault
By Big Island Times | Apr 30, 2024
WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), along with Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Chris Coons (D-DE), have called on the American Bar Association (ABA) to investigate the effects of legal history disclosure requirements on survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. The Senators expressed concerns about the burdens placed on survivors during the state bar admissions process.In a letter to the ABA, the Senators highlighted how survivors may be required to disclose sensitive information about their past experiences, including campus sexual...
DOH Celebrates Mental Health Month in May
By Big Island Times | Apr 30, 2024
The Department of Health (DOH) is set to celebrate Mental Health Month in May, as announced in a news release dated April 30, 2024. The focus will be on raising awareness and promoting mental well-being in Hawaii.According to the news release, the DOH aims to shed light on the importance of mental health in the community. The statement "Oʻahu:Kauaʻi:ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH IN HAWAII" emphasizes the significance of addressing mental health issues across different regions in Hawaii.As the month of May approaches, the DOH is gearing up to provide resources and support for...
DOH Shuts Down La Birria Lunch Wagon in ʻAiea, Hawai‘i for Operating Without Permit
By Big Island Times | Apr 30, 2024
The Hawai‘i Department of Health (DOH) has taken action against La Birria, a lunch wagon in ʻAiea, by issuing a red placard and shutting it down for operating without a valid permit. The lunch wagon, identified by license plate number 740 TRZ, was closed down during an inspection on April 29, 2024.In response to the violation, the DOH has outlined specific corrective actions that La Birria must take before it can resume operations. This includes applying for a new food establishment permit to use its new kitchen and passing pre-operational inspections for both the...
First Family Receives Keys to New Temporary Housing on Maui
By Big Island Times | Apr 30, 2024
The Maui Interim Housing Plan, which was officially announced in January, aims to deliver housing in a phased approach, with a focus on providing permanent housing and efficient use of funds for survivors to move in. Today, the plan took a significant step forward as the First Family received the keys to their new temporary housing on Maui.Images from the event, courtesy of the Office of the Governor, will soon be available for viewing, capturing the momentous occasion. Additionally, a news conference detailing the event can be viewed for further insights.This...
First Family Receives Keys to New Temporary Housing on Maui
By Big Island Times | Apr 30, 2024
The Office of the Governor has reported that the First Family has received the keys to new temporary housing on Maui. The official announcement was made on April 30, 2024.According to the announcement, the Maui Interim Housing Plan was officially unveiled in January. The plan focuses on a phased approach to delivering housing, with a priority on options that result in permanent housing, efficient fund utilization, and preparedness for survivors to move in.As part of the plan, various strategies have been outlined, including residents returning to their original...
DOH Celebrates Mental Health Month in May
By Big Island Times | Apr 30, 2024
HONOLULU — The Hawaiʻi State Department of Health (DOH) and its partners are gearing up to celebrate Mental Health Month in May, urging Hawaiʻi residents to promote mental health care acceptance and combat discrimination that hinders treatment-seeking. The initiative involves various divisions and community partners to advocate for equity and inclusion for individuals with mental health concerns.As stated by Keli Acquaro, acting administrator for CAMHD, the focus is on transitioning from mere awareness of children's mental health issues to full acceptance. Acquaro...
Department of Health Issues Recall Alert for Gibson Farms Organic Walnuts Over E. Coli Concerns
By Big Island Times | Apr 30, 2024
HONOLULU – The Hawaiʻi State Department of Health (DOH) Food and Drug Branch (FDB) issued a recall alert for Gibson Farms bulk Organic California Shelled Walnuts due to potential Escherichia coli 0157:H7 (E. coli) contamination. The recalled product, specifically organic light halves and pieces, may have been distributed to local natural food retailers in Hawaiʻi.Symptoms of E. coli infection can include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, fever, nausea, and/or vomiting, with effects potentially manifesting up to nine days after consumption. While most healthy adults can...
Groundbreaking Marks the Start of Ka La‘i Ola, a Major Housing Initiative for Maui Wildfire Survivors
By Big Island Times | Apr 30, 2024
In a recent news release from the Office of the Governor, it was announced that a groundbreaking ceremony has signaled the beginning of Ka La‘i Ola, a significant housing initiative for Maui wildfire survivors."Ka Laʻi Ola will provide comprehensive property management and community services, including access to disaster case managers, trauma-informed services, a resiliency center, childcare, healthcare facilities, gardens, playgrounds and more."The project involves the provision of various essential services aimed at supporting the emotional and physical well-being of...
DOH Rejects Navy’s Red Hill Consolidated Groundwater Sampling Plan Due to Insufficient Monitoring
By Big Island Times | Apr 30, 2024
The Hawaiʻi Department of Health (DOH) has disapproved the Navy’s Red Hill Consolidated Groundwater Sampling Program, citing insufficient monitoring measures. Deputy Director for Environmental Health Kathleen Ho expressed disappointment in the Navy's failure to produce a plan to reduce water discharge into Hālawa Stream, stating, “It’s unacceptable that the Navy would fail to produce such a plan following multiple rounds of regulatory review.” The DOH has ordered the Navy to implement a modified version of the program with additional conditions to protect public health and...
HI-EMA NEWS RELEASE: Monthly Siren and Emergency Alert System Test for May 2024
By Big Island Times | Apr 29, 2024
HONOLULU — The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency (HI-EMA) has announced that the monthly test of the Statewide Outdoor Warning Siren System is set to take place on May 1, 2024, at 11:45 a.m. The test will also include the Live Audio Broadcast segment of the Emergency Alert System. The agency clarified that there will be no additional activities or drills conducted alongside this test.In a statement, HI-EMA emphasized the importance of heeding emergency instructions in case the siren is heard outside of the scheduled test time. The public is advised to follow guidance...
HI-EMA Announces New Locations for Community Resource Centers in Lahaina
By Big Island Times | Apr 29, 2024
HONOLULU - The Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) at Lahaina’s Civic Center Gymnasium, a vital resource for those affected by the recent wildfire tragedy, has officially closed its doors. The Hawaiʻi Emergency Management Agency (HI-EMA) expresses deep gratitude for the dedication and hard work of all involved in providing assistance and support during this challenging time.As Lahaina transitions into a new phase of recovery, HI-EMA is pleased to announce the relocation of the DRC to the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa at 200 Nohea Kai Drive, effective Monday, April 29. The...
DCR News Release – Pre-trial detainee escapes O’ahu Community Correctional Center
By Big Island Times | Apr 28, 2024
HONOLULU — A search is underway for pre-trial misdemeanant Isaac Edayan who allegedly escaped from the O’ahu Community Correctional Center (OCCC) on Friday, April 26, 2024. Staff discovered Edayan, 39, missing during a headcount at approximately 6 p.m.Edayan, a pre-trial misdemeanant, is charged with operating a vehicle after a license and privilege have been suspended or revoked for operating a vehicle under the influence of an intoxicant. Described as 5 feet, 10 inches tall and approximately 190 pounds with a medium build, Edayan is further noted to have brown eyes and...
Department of Health Reopens Takamiya Market After Inspection
By Big Island Times | Apr 26, 2024
The Department of Health has reopened Takamiya Market after a successful inspection on April 26, 2024. The market, located in Wailuku, was issued a green "Pass" placard, signaling its approval for operation. According to the report, during the follow-up inspection, no active pest activity was observed, leading to the market's reopening.In a statement, the DOH Maui Food Safety Branch highlighted the efforts made by Takamiya Market to address the pest issue, stating that the establishment had engaged a professional pest control company for routine treatments and monitoring....
Hawai‘i Governor Recognizes National Correctional Officers and Employees Week
By Big Island Times | Apr 26, 2024
HONOLULU — Governor Josh Green, M.D., signed a proclamation Friday, April 26, 2024, recognizing National Correctional Officers and Employees Week beginning May 5, 2024, through May 11, 2024. The proclamation is to honor the hundreds of dedicated correctional officers and non-uniformed staff at jail and prison facilities in Hawai‘i.National Correctional Officers and Employees Week was established on May 5, 1984, by President Ronald Reagan, when he signed Proclamation 5187 creating “National Correctional Officers’ Week” to recognize the men and women who work in jails,...
Gov. Green Approves Broadband Equity Access and Development State Match Plan
By Big Island Times | Apr 26, 2024
Lieutenant Governor Sylvia Luke expressed her satisfaction with the Legislature's action to ensure the state match in funding, stating that it fulfills an integral component of the administration's statewide initiative. She highlighted the importance of partnerships and collaborations between various entities to ensure all residents have access to reliable and affordable high-speed internet.Chung Chang, the strategic broadband coordinator for the Hawai‘i Broadband and Digital Equity Office, emphasized the significance of the additional state funds in empowering the office...
The Department of Health reopens Takamiya Market
By Big Island Times | Apr 26, 2024
The Hawai‘i Department of Health (DOH) Maui Food Safety Branch has given Takamiya Market the green light to reopen following a successful inspection. The market, located at 359 N. Market Street in Wailuku, had faced closure due to pest activity but has now met the necessary standards for operation.During the inspection process, it was noted that there was an initial concern regarding pest activity. The DOH Maui Food Safety Branch shared, "At the first follow-up inspection on April 23, 2024, a reduced but still active cockroach population was observed and the establishment...
DLNR Imposes $1.8 Million Fine for Yacht Grounding, Including Cultural Resource Damages and Community Distress
By Big Island Times | Apr 26, 2024
The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) has announced a hefty $1.8 million fine for a yacht grounding incident, which includes cultural resource damages and community distress. The enforcement action came before the Board of Land and Natural Resources (BLNR) for the third time, targeting individuals associated with Noelani Yacht Charters, LLC.In a statement submitted to the BLNR, it was noted that the DLNR does not have a specific tool to quantify emotional distress and cultural damage to the public. However, the department acknowledged the significant public...