Hawaii News Now

With the federal government shutdown now in its fourth week, the pain is becoming real for many Americans. The Hawaii Foodbank is launching new food distributions across Oahu, trying to reach families, federal employees, and even military households affected by the shutdown. And authorities confirm two young fishermen have died after they were found unresponsive in West Oahu waters on Saturday. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The bodies of two 18-year-old fishermen were pulled from the waters off northwest Oahu this weekend. A Hilo officer is recovering after being hit on the side of a roadway. Hear what she was doing at the time of the accident.The holiday travel season is fast approaching- but many Americans are worried about the cost. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After nearly two months without a permanent police chief, Hawaii County is looking for its new top cop. On Oahu, two young men were hospitalized in critical condition after being rescued from Kaena Point Saturday.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Twenty-one recruits officially joined the Honolulu Police Department Friday, with dozens more slated to follow in the coming year. Meanwhile, court records revealed a long history of traffic infractions for a man police say was responsible for a deadly crash on Hawaii Island Thursday.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Hawaii Green Infrastructure Authority (HGIA) is taking over HI Now Daily, and it’s all about empowering small businesses! We’re learning how HGIA supports local entrepreneurs — and hearing directly from small business owners whose companies have been transformed through their programs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Critical fire weather conditions continue as gusty trade winds peak today and tomorrow. Witnesses describe the moments before a deadly crash in North Hilo that killed a woman and injured several children. And another Oahu private school voices its support for Kamehameha Schools and its admissions policy amid a federal lawsuit. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It is a First Alert Weather Day; high winds and dry conditions in our forecast are the perfect ingredients for critical fire weather. We have new details on a deadly crash in North Hilo yesterday. And Volcanoes National Park is still open during the government shutdown, but some visitors say they did not see any park rangers during last Friday's eruption.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's a First Alert Weather Day with the winds expected to pick up as emergency officials keeping a close eye on conditions. This, as Big Island police investigate a string of suspicious brush fires in Kailua-Kona. And an NBA player and head coach were arrested after federal investigators uncovered a major gambling scandal that hass rocked the sports world. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Job alert! HI Now Daily showcases new positions that are open with the city and how to apply. Plus, we’ll talk story with the subject of a local documentary and follow his journey to becoming a well-known singer/songwriter.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fire investigators on the Big Island are still trying to figure out what sparked a deadly blaze at a small Hilo hotel. Our team has declared First Alert Weather Days for today through Saturday as a Red Flag Warning is in effect. And Honolulu police are searching for two men accused of robbing and stabbing a 29-year-old man in Moiliili. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The investigation is on as officials try to figure out what caused a deadly fire at a historic Hilo hotel. The harrowing accounts from guests and nearby neighbors. A new law to protect homes from wildfires takes effect on Kauai. We'll tell you what it requires property owners to do. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A fire tears through a small Hilo hotel, killing one person. Charges are filed against the man accused of causing an hours-long police standoff and shooting in Kapahulu. And Maui's own Kurt Suzuki is now officially the newest manager of the Los Angeles Angels; his emotional introductory news conference.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Job alert! HI Now Daily showcases new positions that are open with the city and how to apply. Plus, we’ll talk story with the subject of a local documentary and follow his journey to becoming a well-known singer/songwriter.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One person is dead and another is missing after an early morning fire at a the Wild Ginger Hotel in Hilo. A tense standoff in Kapahulu came to an end early this morning when the suspect in an hours-long barricade on Herbert Street surrendered and was taken into custody. And we are monitoring a water main break in Kaimuki that began yesterday afternoon.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s episode of HI Now Daily, we invite in a tattoo shop, founded in Lahaina after the wildfires. See how their shared resilience shows up in their creative work. Plus, see how you can help the Humane Society this weekend even if you don’t have room in your family to adopt!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Breaking news in Kapahulu, where the suspected shooter of a sheriff's deputy is barricaded in a home. Hundreds of Kamehameha students and supporters held a rally a day after a lawsuit challenging its admissions policy. And in national news, a critical food assistance program could be at risk as the government shutdown standoff drags on. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this week’s Spotlight Now, Gov. Josh Green detailed a $100 million Hawaii Relief Program which aims to support families and nonprofits impacted by the federal government shutdown. Then, Aloha United Way CEO Michelle Bartell revealed how organizations affected by the shutdown can receive financial help. Hawaii Pacific Health’s Michael Robinson shared how local health care efforts are tackling food insecurity.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A deputy sheriff is recovering after being shot during an operation in Kapahulu this morning, where a barricade situation is underway. Alumni, community leaders, and their supporters came together at Iolani Palace to protest as a Virginia nonprofit is suing Kamehameha Schools over its admissions policy. And crews are back out in the waters off Kailua, hoping to find a missing canoe paddler. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kamehameha Schools' admission policy is targeted by a group opposing affirmative action. How the school plans to respond. A major setback to the hopes of reopening Pohoiki Boat Ramp on Hawaii Island. Why a recently dredged channel is now full of debris. A very good boy to tell you about this morning. We'll tag along with Ku Makani on his first day on the job with the Maui Police Department.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From lava fields to leadership, John Leong built Pono Pacific and Kupu to restore both land and lives — and to show what’s possible when purpose leads the way.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s episode of HI Now Daily, we learn about an event this weekend designed to help local families become homeowners in Hawaii. Plus, we dive into a language program that has local kids confident in speaking Mandarin.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Honolulu firefighters reveal what is hampering search efforts for a canoe paddler who went missing off Oahu. A federal lawsuit challenges Kamehameha Schools' admissions policy. The city's transportation director apologizes after closed elevators at a Skyline station inconvenienced weekend travelers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Breaking news: A federal lawsuit has been filed against Kamehameha Schools alleging the school's admissions policy violates civil rights laws. Crews continue to search for a missing paddler in Windward Oahu who went missing in waters off Kailua yesterday morning. And tens of thousands of SNAP recipients in Hawaii will have to meet new work requirements to keep getting their benefits.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Change is on the way for anyone receiving SNAP benefits. The new requirements that will need to be followed to keep getting this essential aid. A fare-free weekend on-board the Skyline to celebrate the opening of the system's second segment. How many people turned out to give it a ride. Protect your packages. A new study details just how big a problem porch thefts are here in Hawaii. Where we stack up compared to the rest of the country.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thousands protested the Trump administration across Hawaii yesterday. Crowds gathered at the State Capitol and other locations amid the government shutdown. A live look at the strike ending as thousands of Kaiser Permanente nurses and health care workers across California and Hawaii return to work after a five-day walkout. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We have an update to a stabbing at the Manana Skatepark in Pearl City. Police have charged a 48-year-old man, and the victim remains in serious condition. An overnight crash on Kalākaua Avenue near Ala Moana Boulevard brought out police, fire crews, and EMS. With the Pride Parade set to pass through the area today, we're watching closely for any changes to the route. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hundreds more Hawaii healthcare workers walk off the job. A Kauai man was arrested after an illegal fireworks explosion in broad daylight. And an early endorsement from the teachers union, why they're backing Jarrett Keohokalole for U.S. Congress. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s episode of HI Now Daily, we’ll run down the list of events connected with this weekend’s Pride Parade, plus gather details on a singing competition for local high school students.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Health care workers from Kapiolani Medical Center say they are striking over unfair labor practices, wages, and benefits. The state says the number of illnesses potentially linked to recalled Meadow Gold chocolate milk climbs to 15. And President Donald Trump criticized U.S. Senator Mazie Hirono, (D) Hawaii, claiming she is pushing for plans to build a train that would run from the mainland to Hawaii. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s episode of HI Now Daily, MMA fighter Llima-Lei Macfarlane stops by the studio to talk about how she’s empowering other women. Plus, where you can get your hands on a giant bag of a popular brand of chips.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A busy opening day for Skyline's second segment with packed trains and excited riders. John Bolton, President Trump's former national security adviser, has been indicted, charged with illegally storing and transmitting classified information. And an activist from Kauai who was detained by the Israeli Navy is speaking out about her traumatic experience. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A busy opening day for Skyline's second segment with packed trains and excited riders. John Bolton, President Trump's former national security adviser, has been indicted, charged with illegally storing and transmitting classified information. And an activist from Kauai who was detained by the Israeli Navy is speaking out about her experience. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The chocolate milk recall that's impacting hundreds of local schools. How many child illnesses are now under investigation. The second segment of the Skyline is now open. We sent Jolanie Martinez to take some rides this morning. Staffing shortages are on the rise as air traffic controllers across the country are working without pay and calling out sick due to the government shutdown. What you need to know if you have a flight to catch.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The cast of Oʻahu Shores is in the HI Now Daily studio! We ask the stars tough questions about their castmates. Plus, a rodeo clown and a bull rider explain how they’re teaming up to help local kids. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After nine children fell ill at an Oahu elementary school, Hawaii Department of Health officials are investigating if it's connected to recalled Meadow Gold chocolate milk. A father and daughter accused of assaulting a Honolulu police officer appear in court. A dedication ceremony celebrated the second segment of Honolulu's rail project, Skyline, which is set to open to the public Thursday morning.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Health alert: Meadow Gold Chocolate milk half-pints were sent out to nearly 200 local schools. From Halawa to Middle Street, the new segment opens to the public tomorrow. And it is day 15 of the government shutdown, and thousands of workers are feeling the strain of partial or missed paychecks. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Day two for the Kaiser workers' strike as hundreds hit the picket lines at 3 local hospitals. What both sides are saying about the negotiations. Expanding the Skyline. Tomorrow marks a major milestone for the rail project with service opening to four more stations. Casey Lund is live this morning with what riders can expect. Protecting teens on Instagram is getting a bit easier. Details on a new safety policy that looks to protect young users. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thousands of healthcare workers in Hawaii begin their five-day strike against Kaiser Permanente. A carjacking suspect with an extensive criminal history appears in court. State officials explain why a Homeland Security video blaming Democrats for the federal government shutdown will not play at TSA checkpoints.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s time to get crafty! On today’s episode of HI Now Daily, we head to a shop that teaches you to make custom Turkish lamps and fairy houses. Plus how you could win a brand new 4Runner, just by using your credit card.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Segment Two of the Honolulu rail system Skyline is set to open this week, city leaders are planning for the future. Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation CEO Lori Kahikina reveals what riders can expect in the new extension, the engineering feats her team completed, and what's next for the project. Then, City Council member Tyler Dos Santos-Tam explains how a bill could help Skyline extend even farther to the University of Hawaii at Manoa.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nearly 2,000 health care workers are on the picket lines in Hawaii as part of a multi-state strike against Kaiser Permanente. Major airports across the country, including in Hawaii, are refusing to play a video of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem blaming Democrats for the shutdown-related delays at TSA security checkpoints. And the Maui Humane Society says 18 dogs will be euthanized if they're not adopted by the end of the month.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Set to strike. A five-day action is set to begin this morning as local Kaiser Permanente workers plan to walk off the job. We'll tell you what they're demanding and what impacts will be felt by patients. Wash your produce! A new case of rat lungworm disease is reported on Kauai. How long it had been since the Garden Isle saw an infection. Looking for lifelines. The Maui Humane Society is warning euthanizations may soon be needed because of overcrowding. How you can open your heart to help.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Her family left Hawai‘i for opportunity. She found her way back. Today, Marisa Castuera Hayase leads one of the state’s largest philanthropic portfolios, and is shaping a vision of leadership rooted in care and connection, with community voices at the forefront.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Prepare for a hike in your power bill as Hawaiian Electric explores a new rate increase. Forget the traditional college application; a new program makes it easier for Hawaii's public school seniors to go to UH. Plus, after being held captive for over 2 years, 20 Israeli hostages are finally released, as President Trump brokers a historic Middle East peace deal. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s episode of HI Now Daily, we learn about a new local community of townhomes priced at $480k. We’ll show you where they’re being built and who can apply. Plus, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at a new film about a novelist and poet accused of murder, soon to be featured at the Hawaii International Film Festival. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After two years of war, the remaining living Israeli hostages have returned to Israel, and the fighting in Gaza has stopped. Thousands of local healthcare workers are set to begin a five-day strike tomorrow morning. As the government shutdown approaches its second week, unpaid federal workers across the country turn to food banks.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Some Hawaii Healthcare workers are set to strike this week. How many will join the picket line and what they're demanding. Tens of thousands of our neighbors are either furloughed or working without pay because of the government shutdown; a look at some of the resources available to these federal workers. And remembering another life taken too soon on Oahu roads. We'll take you to a paddle out where hundreds turned out to pay their respects. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Emergency crews are on scene after a crash on Kamehameha Highway this morning. Drivers should expect delays and avoid the area while authorities investigate and clear the road. Yesterday, the Women's Community Correctional Center in Kailua got a festive Halloween makeover for Kids' Day. Incarcerated moms got special time with their children, with games and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A father and daughter are facing serious charges after a fight outside a high school turned violent. Big news for thousands of Hawaii insurance customers. One company is exiting the islands, leaving policyholders with big questions about their coverage. As the government shutdown continues, non-profits are bracing for a sharp rise in demand for help. The Hawaii Food Bank is among those planning extra distributions, even as they lose federal funding.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Half price cocktails are on the menu in this episode of HI Now Daily! We’ll tell you where you can find them and check out the menu items that pair well with them. Plus, we treat you to a stunning ukelele performance by Taimane.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the government shutdown rolls on, layoffs begin for thousands of federal workers. After more than three decades in the islands, DTRIC Insurance announces plans to leave Hawaii. And a damaged line knocks out phone service for TheBus, Skyline, and Handi-Van.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.