Big Island Times News
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...
DOH Approves Reopening of Alyssandra Lumpia Express in ʻAiea
By Big Island Times | Apr 26, 2024
The Department of Health (DOH) has given the green light for the reopening of Alyssandra Lumpia Express in ʻAiea, following a recent inspection. The food establishment was advised to continue to maintain proper drainage of wastewater into the approved sanitary sewage system.This approval comes after the necessary measures were taken by Alyssandra Lumpia Express to address the concerns raised during the inspection. The DOH is satisfied with the actions taken by the establishment, ensuring that it meets the required health and safety standards.In response to the...
DOA News release on HB2619 relating to biosecurity funding
By Big Island Times | Apr 26, 2024
The Hawaii Department of Agriculture (HDOA) has announced a significant development in the state's biosecurity efforts with the passing of HB2619. Governor Josh Green, M.D., highlighted the importance of this legislation by stating, "This is landmark legislation in the fight against invasive species." The bill designates the HDOA as the lead agency in coordinating the state's biosecurity efforts and provides additional resources to enhance protection of the state's agriculture and way of life.Sharon Hurd, chairperson of the Hawai‘i Board of Agriculture, expressed...
Courts in the Community: Hawaiʻi Supreme Court Holds its First Oral Argument at Kailua High School
By Big Island Times | Apr 26, 2024
KAILUA, Hawaiʻi – The Hawaiʻi Supreme Court convened today at Kailua High School, giving more than 300 students the opportunity to observe oral argument in an actual case. Students from various schools attended as part of the Judiciary’s Courts in the Community outreach program.They watched attorneys representing both parties present their legal arguments in a specific case involving a defendant accused of operating a vehicle under the influence. Following the oral argument, students had the chance to engage in two question-and-answer sessions with the attorneys and the...
AG Lopez Urges UnitedHealth Group to Help Patients & Providers Harmed by Cyberattack
By Big Island Times | Apr 25, 2024
Attorney General Anne Lopez has urged UnitedHealth Group to take more meaningful action to protect providers, pharmacies, and patients affected by the recent cyberattack on Change Healthcare. In a bipartisan effort with 22 attorneys general, Lopez emphasized the need for UnitedHealth Group to address the disruptions caused by the cyberattack.Lopez expressed her concerns, stating, "Here in Hawaiʻi, we have heard from local medical providers who say the cyberattack is causing issues with access by way of delayed insurance authorizations and claim reimbursements. This is...
DOA Extends Pesticides Disposal Program to Moloka‘i
By Big Island Times | Apr 25, 2024
HONOLULU – The Pesticides Branch of the Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture (HDOA) announced the extension of its free pesticide disposal program to the island of Moloka‘i in June. Moloka‘i farmers and other commercial users of pesticides are encouraged to participate in this initiative. According to Sharon Hurd, chairperson of the Hawai‘i Board of Agriculture, "The Pesticides Disposal Program has been very successful across the state and we are pleased to bring the program to Moloka‘i."The statewide Pesticides Disposal Program (PDP) is specifically designed for commercial...
Temporary Closure of Kahakapao Access Road for Construction Project Announced
By Big Island Times | Apr 25, 2024
DLNR News Release – TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF KAHAKAPAO ACCESS ROAD, April 25, 2024The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) has announced the temporary closure of Kahakapao Access Road for a construction project, as detailed in a news release dated April 25, 2024.According to the DLNR News Release, the road serves as the main access route into and out of the Makawao State Forest Reserve and Kahakapao Recreation Area (KRA). It provides safe access into the reserve for various user groups, including residents, visitors, and county workers at the Piʻiholo Water...
DLNR News Release-Dozens of Vehicles to be Towed from Kahului Harbor Next Month
By Big Island Times | Apr 24, 2024
Apr 24 2024 - The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) announced that dozens of vehicles will be towed from Kahului Harbor next month. The decision comes after the harbor area has been overrun with abandoned vehicles, leading to concerns about safety and cleanliness.DOBOR Administrator Ed Underwood expressed the necessity of this action, stating, “We recognize the plight houseless individuals face and the extraordinary high cost of living on Maui and across the state. However, our boating facilities are open to everyone and it is not appropriate for certain...