Latest News from Big Island Times

The Hawaiʻi Department of Health (DOH) has introduced an Environmental Monitoring Data Portal aimed at consolidating environmental monitoring data for areas impacted by the August 2023 Lahaina and Kula wildfires. This portal provides public access to environmental data collected by DOH and its federal, state, and community partners. The website includes narrative and graphical information to help users interpret the data, which is available for download.

Monk seal delivers first pup on Mokulua Nui; protection plan initiated

A Hawaiian monk seal born on Mokulua Nui in 2018 has delivered her first pup on the same islet, according to a confirmation made last Friday. The birth of the pup to Wailea (RJ30) marks one of the 11 monk seal births on Oʻahu this year, presenting unique challenges in protecting both seals and people.

Keiki Day held at Waiawa Correctional Facility after pandemic hiatus

On a cool, breezy morning, inmate Samuel Hufanga stood on a grassy recreation field at the Waiawa Correctional Facility (WCF) where his seven-year-old son stepped out of a white shuttle van, sprinted toward him, and jumped into Hufanga’s arms.

Travel-related dengue case confirmed on O‘ahu by Hawai‘i Department of Health

The Hawai‘i Department of Health (DOH) has confirmed one travel-related dengue virus case on Oʻahu. The individual traveled to a region where dengue is known to be spread. Symptoms of dengue can range from mild to severe and include fever, nausea, vomiting, rash, and body aches. Symptoms typically last two to seven days and although severe and even life-threatening illness can occur, most people recover after about a week.

New DOH portal compiles Maui environmental monitoring data

The Hawaiʻi Department of Health (DOH) has introduced an Environmental Monitoring Data Portal to consolidate and share results from environmental monitoring in areas impacted by the August 2023 Lahaina and Kula wildfires. This platform offers public access to data collected by DOH alongside federal, state, and community partners. The portal includes narrative and graphical information to aid in data interpretation and usage, with downloadable reports available.

FDA issues alert on IQF oyster contamination

The Hawai‘i Department of Health (DOH) Food Safety Branch has issued a public notification regarding a recent advisory from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) concerning certain IQF oysters from the Republic of Korea. On June 21, 2024, the FDA warned against selling, serving, or consuming these oysters due to potential norovirus contamination.

Governor issues intent to veto list citing financial prudence and policy concerns

On June 21, 2024, Governor Green issued an intent to veto list for several bills, citing financial imprudence and policy concerns. The Governor emphasized the importance of addressing state priorities such as wildfire recovery efforts, affordable housing, and reducing the cost of living.

Oʻahu man convicted of commercial sexual exploitation of minor

A First Circuit Court jury has convicted Jefferson Manuales Ibalio, 35, of Commercial Sexual Exploitation of a Minor. The conviction stems from Operation Keiki Shield, led by the Hawaiʻi Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force. Ibalio was apprehended on January 20, 2023, for soliciting sex from an undercover officer posing online as a 16-year-old girl. According to the Felony Information, Ibalio offered $200 in exchange for sex.

Hawai'i welcomes new class of adult corrections officers

The Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (DCR) welcomed a new class of adult corrections officers (ACO) today, June 21, 2024, at a graduation ceremony held at the Mission Memorial Auditorium in Honolulu. Eighteen graduates from Basic Corrections Recruit Class (BCRC) 24-03 completed their training and will commence their careers as corrections officers in facilities across Hawaiʻi.

Hawaii County Kona Community Development Plan Action Committee will meet June 25

Hawaii County Kona Community Development Plan Action Committee will meet at 12 p.m., Tuesday, June 25

Hawaii County Environmental Management Commission met May 22

Hawaii County Environmental Management Commission met Wednesday, May 22

Hawaii County Environmental Management Commission will meet June 26

Hawaii County Environmental Management Commission will meet at 9 a.m., Wednesday, June 26

Hawaii County Fire Commission met will meet June 25

Hawaii County Fire Commission met will meet at 9 a.m., Tuesday, June 25

Hawaii County Water Board will meet June 25

Hawaii County Water Board will meet at 12 p.m., Tuesday, June 25

Hawaii County South Kohala Community Development Plan Action Committee will meet June 24

Hawaii County South Kohala Community Development Plan Action Committee will meet at 7 p.m., Monday, June 24

Hawaii County Police Commission will meet June 21

Hawaii County Police Commission will meet at 9 a.m., Friday, June 21

Hawaiʻi extends NCS program deadline amid ongoing wildfire recovery efforts