News from May 2021


Inventories in leather and allied products industry climb 0.1 percent in February

Inventories for businesses in the leather and allied products industry increase by 1 million, or 0.1 percent, to 811 million in February, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.


Inventories in paper products industry did not change much in February

Inventories for businesses in the paper products industry was unchanged over February, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.


CDC predicts 38 people in 45-64 age group in Hawaii died during week ending April 24

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 38 people in the 45-64 age group died during the week ending April 24.


Inventories in textile products industry fall 2.2 percent in February

Inventories for businesses in the textile products industry decrease by 79 million, or 2.2 percent, to 3.6 billion in February, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.


HHS provides $18.9 million to businesses in Hilo under CARES Act

Through the fourth quarter of 2020, businesses in Hilo received $18.9 million in health-related relief from the CARES Act issued by the Department of Health and Human Services.


VA reports decrease of April appointments scheduled at VA Pacific Islands HCS health facility in Hilo

The VA Pacific Islands Health Care System, subsidiary 459GB in Hilo, Hawaii scheduled 2,799 pending appointments in April compared to 3,655 during the same period last year, according to data collected from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.


Big Island Times area weekly mass times

The following parishes in the Big Island Times coverage area hold weekly mass at these designated times.


Inventories in textile mills industry fall 0.3 percent in February

Inventories for businesses in the textile mills industry decrease by 8 million, or 0.3 percent, to 3.1 billion in February, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.


Week of April 24: 38 people in 65-74 age group are estimated to have died in Hawaii

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 38 people in the 65-74 age group died during the week ending April 24.


Inventories in apparel industry climb 0.1 percent in February

Inventories for businesses in the apparel industry increase by 2 million, or 0.1 percent, to 1.8 billion in February, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.


VA reports increase in number of appointments at VA Pacific Islands HCS health facility in Kailua in November 2020

The VA Pacific Islands Health Care System, subsidiary 459GC in Kailua, HI scheduled 1,653 pending appointments in November 2020 compared to 1,537 the previous month, according to data collected from the U.S. Department of Veteran's Affairs.


Margaret "Ma" Nancy Feliciano

Margaret “Ma” Nancy Feliciano, 83, of Hilo, died May 10, 2021, at home. Born March 26, 1938, in Kukaiau, she was a homemaker.


Edith Yuriko Hara

Edith Yuriko Hara, 76, of Hilo, died May 4, 2021, at home. Born August 31, 1944, in Hilo, she was a homemaker.


Mae Michie Okamura

Mae Michie Okamura, 87, of Hilo, died May 4, 2021, at Hawaii Care Choices Pohai Malama Care Center. Born November 6, 1933, in Hilo


Anita Caberto Calso

Anita Caberto Calso, 70, of Hilo, passed away on Saturday, May 1, 2021 at Hilo Medical Center


Wayne Kealoha Delo Santos

Wayne Kealoha Delo Santos, 65, of Hilo, passed away on Friday, April 30, 2021 at Hale Ho’ola Hamakua in Honokaa


'A devastating disease': Hawaii's coffee industry also impacted by COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic affected many industries in Hawaii, even coffee.


Shut-off deadline approaching for Hawaiian Electric customers

The May 31 deadline for power shut-offs is quickly approaching, and Hawaiian Electric is reminding customers to contact the company to work out an interest-free payment plan to avoid disconnection.


Schatz: Save Hotel Jobs Act will 'bring back laid-off workers, ensure safe workplaces and help economy get back on track'

The hotel industry in Hawai’I, like other states has taken a hit due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and Sen. Brian Schatz (D-Hawai’i) is stepping up to try and help them with new legislation.


Schatz: 'When we talk about the student loan debt crisis, we're not just talking about tuition'

Student loan debt is a hot topic these days, with Forbes reporting that 45 million individuals hold more than $1.5 trillion in that debt.