Bree Gonzales News


Ige is 'pleased with the vaccination and compliance rates' of Hawaii state employees

The Hawaii Department of Human Resources Development (DHRD) has reported that many of the state’s employees have been fully vaccinated; however, the numbers do not include the Department of Education and University of Hawaii employees.


USGS scientist on recent earthquake: 'Please be aware that aftershocks are possible and may be felt'

The 4.1-magnitude earthquake located east of Pāhala on Aug. 18 had no observable impact on Mauna Loa and Kīlauea volcanoes, as confirmed by U.S. Geological Survey's (USGS) Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) Scientist-in-Charge Ken Hon.


Hawaii State Teachers Association demands new agreement due to 'very limited alternatives' to in-person teaching

The Hawaii State Teachers Association (HSTA) called on the Hawaii State Department of Education (HIDOE), raising concerns about rising COVID-19 cases and renewal of their memorandum of understanding (MOU) for the 2021–22 school year.


IRONMAN competition postponed till 2022 due to 'resurgence of the virus and new delta strain'

The 2021 Supersapiens IRONMAN World Championship, which was originally set for Saturday, Oct. 9, has been postponed until Saturday, Feb. 5, 2022.


Hawaii County mayor: Rising COVID-19 cases create an 'unbearable strain on our health systems and communities'

In response to the recent rise in COVID-19 cases, Hawaii County Mayor Mitch Roth appealed to Gov. David Ige (D) for the reinstatement of pretravel testing for every person traveling to the Hawaiian Islands.


With the 'delta variant causing a surge in cases,' Hawaii receives funding to bring in health care reinforcements

Over 500 experienced health care professionals from out of state will be deployed to supplement local staff in 19 hospitals statewide in the coming weeks, with funding from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).


Both virtual and in-person events happening this week on Big Island

Enjoy the weekend and the following week on the Big Island with these fun events.


Multiple earthquakes recorded in Kilauea summit caldera, but there is 'no evidence of lava at the surface'

While the U.S. Geological Survey’s Hawaiian Volcano Observatory has detected an increase in earthquake activity beneath the south part of Kilauea summit caldera, within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, USGS has stated that the volcano is not erupting.


University of Hawaii at Hilo is seeking storytellers for Wailau’s virtual themed storytelling event

Applications are being accepted at the University of Hawaii at Hilo to be part of Wailau’s third storytelling installment this fall.


Hawai‘i Community College offers Academic Subject Certificate (ASC) in sustainability

For students who would want to pursue learning about sustainability, Hawai‘i Community College can help them. The college is now offering a new Academic Subject Certificate (ASC) in Sustainability starting in the Fall 2021 semester.


Kierkiewicz suggests task force to resolve squatting issues raised by Volcano residents

Hawai‘i County Councilwoman Ashley Kierkiewicz of the eastern Puna district addresses Volcano residents’ squatting concerns.


Ige sets limits on gatherings as Hawaiʻi’s COVID-19 cases surge

Taking effect immediately, Gov. David Ige released Executive Order 21-05 implementing statewide restrictions on social gatherings, restaurants, bars, and social establishments.


Scrabble, cooking classes, tree health care, laughter, more on Big Island

Big Island is getting busier this weekend. Come, join, and enjoy the events.


Hawai‘i Remote Work Project offers residents work-from-home opportunities

Hawai‘i residents seeking a work-from-home set-up can utilize the Hawai‘i Remote Work Project website for opportunities.


Big Island upcoming events: craft and gift fair, Tai Chi Chuan, Toastmasters Club, cooking demonstrations and prenatal classes

Check out this week’s events happening on the Big Island — handicrafts, cooking demos, tai chi and more!


Ige warns Hawaii residents: 'The delta variant has truly changed the COVID-19 pandemic here in the islands'

The Hawaii Department of Health has determined that Hawaii County has reached the "community spread" level of COVID-19, according to Big Island Now.


Kona Trolley serves Hele-On Route 201: 'The hassle-free way to explore the hottest spots in town'

The Kona Trolley is back on the road again and has been operating since Aug. 1.


Hawaii tourism industry is struggling with customer service 'due to continued pent-up demand for summer travel'

While parent company Hawaiian Holdings “made meaningful strides toward recovery,” subsidiary Hawaiian Airlines is grappling with delivering satisfactory customer service, according to Bloomberg.


High school student athletes could be required to be vaccinated to play sports: 'We want to make everybody as safe as possible'

In an effort to protect public high school students, a vaccination for COVID-19 may be required before they will be allowed to engage in extracurricular activities.


Fishing tournament, Sunday farmers market, arts-and-crafts and Scrabble are all on the Big Island this weekend

While Hawaii has opened to travelers and visitors to experience the state’s tourist spots and culture, Big Island locals can also enjoy various events happening now.