Hawaii State News

WATCH LIVE: Who will be the new Miss Hawaii USA?

Sat, 20 Apr 2024 04:31:05 +0000

HONOLULU (KHON2) --Several deserving women from across the island have been training and waiting for this one night.

Get Hawaii's latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You

Friday evening will not only see the end of an era for Miss Hawaii 2023, but the embarkment of a new journey for the newly crowned Miss Hawaii 2024.

It's been a wonderful year of reign for our island's current titleholder Savannah Gankiewicz.

She won last year and represented Hawaii beautifully at the Miss USA pageant in 2023.

Gankiewicz not only secured the 1st runner up title at Miss USA, but she wowed the world with her national costume, that represented the recently hurt Lahaina.

Miss Hawaii USA Savannah Gankiewicz wins the 2023 Miss USA & Teen USA State Costume in a costume representing the historic Lahaina Banyan Tree on Wednesday, Sept. 28 in Reno, Nevada at the Grand Sierra Resort and Casino.

She wont best National Costume and Best In Interview.

But now, a new young lady yearns to wear the crown and sash with Hawaii's name.

Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news

Who will it be? Find out tonight on KHON2 News and KHII.

Hawaii Island police investigating attempted murder in Puna

Sat, 20 Apr 2024 04:25:00 +0000

Hawaii Island police are investigating an attempted murder after a shooting at Hawaiian Paradise Park this morning that injured a 32-year-old man.

Honolulu police K9 injured during barricade situation, no explanation given

Sat, 20 Apr 2024 03:51:53 +0000

HONOLULU (KHON2) -- An hours-long barricade situation in Waianae that began on Thursday, April 18 was finally resolved on Friday, April 19.

Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news

The suspect had been served an eviction notice, according to HPD, and was taken into custody with minor injuries -- a police K9 was also wounded.

Honolulu police have not shared many details about the barricade situation other than an update on Friday morning that said the K9 was injured and the suspect had been taken into custody with minor injuries of his own.

A former HPD crisis negotiator who worked on the 1999 Xerox shooting said K9's are not often the first option.

"K9's can help overpower," said Sheryl Sunia, "but that's really not the norm for here for K9's to be sent in, at least when I was in negotiation."

While some preliminary information of an address or a suspects name might be known, the president of SHOPO said officers that respond to barricade situations often have to worry about the unknowns.

"The officers don't really know if there's booby traps or some kind of special device maybe where the suspect could set up and it's kind of like an ambush where he wants the officers to come into the house," Robert Cavaco said.

An HPD lieutenant at the Waianae station told KHON2 on Thursday that the suspect had been served with an eviction notice that morning, another former HPD negotiator said that information does not necessarily change the approach of mediators.

"So, whatever the crisis might be, domestic violence, an eviction notice, being fired from their job, they're in crisis," Robert Cravalho said. "The crisis negotiation team member is trained on how to defuse that situation, bring down the emotion of the situation so that logic can take over."

Police have not said how the K9 was injured and would not schedule an interview despite repeated requests from KHON2 on Friday, so SHOPO was asked about the option of sending in robotic canines so HPD's live dogs are not put into jeopardy.

"Yeah, that's always an option. And I'm sure they would probably, you know, depending on what the circumstances are, they probably go maybe with the robot first," Cavaco said.

Get news on the go with KHON 2GO, KHON's morning podcast, every morning at 8

KHON2 will share an update on the injured K9 as soon as HPD releases information.

Police asking for public's help in identifying assailants in Kihei

Sat, 20 Apr 2024 03:24:04 +0000

HONOLULU (KHON2) -- Maui Police Department is asking for the public's help in identifying two unidentified males who assaulted a pedestrian in Kihei, March 31.

Get Hawaii's latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You

The assailants assaulted the pedestrian in a van near Sugar Beach.

Police said the van is white and can be described as an older model with no side windows and has a faded blue pinstripe.

A composite sketch also described one of the suspects has a vertical scar under his left eye.

Anyone with any information is encourages to contact Detective Oran Satterfield at (808) 244-6431 or email him at oran.satterfield@mpd.net.

Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news

If you wish to remain anonymous, contact Maui Crime Stoppers at (808) 242-6966.

H1 traffic terror due to HECO 'oversight'

Sat, 20 Apr 2024 03:22:49 +0000

HONOLULU (KHON2) -- Friday afternoon was met with many commuters being bumper to bumper on H1 Fwy.

Get Hawaii's latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You

It was an issue allegedly caused by an 'oversight' on Hawaiian Electric's part.

The State Transportation Department alerted drivers of heavy westbound traffic between Kapolei and Honokai Hale.

Officials said there was an unauthorized single lane closure that was causing the backup, which KHON2 found out was likely due to HECO doing work in the area.

A spokesperson for HECO said crews were replacing a pole and did not secure a permit.

Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news

HECO did apologize for the oversight.

Mother's fight for more traffic laws after daughter's death

Sat, 20 Apr 2024 02:49:52 +0000

HONOLULU (KHON2) -- Not a day goes by that Chevylyn Saniatan does not think about her daughter Sara Yara. Yara was hit by a driver over a year ago on a crosswalk on her way to school.

Get Hawaii's latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You

The driver Mitchel Miyashiro has an extensive record of traffic citations. Miyashiro was charged with negligent homicide and his trial is scheduled for September.

House Speaker Scott Saiki was one of many who called for tougher penalties for these types of repeat offenses, and now a bill looking to stiffen the law passed its final hurdle in the state legislature.

Unauthorized drivers with two or more convictions for the same offense within five years could face class C felony charges.

"This driver was able to go to traffic court over 200 times and simply pay a fine," said Saiki. "That's very important because a class c felony provides for a stricter penalty which is jail time and a monetary fine, but it also will mean that a judge will be overseeing that case."

Saniatan considers the bill a good start and even encouraged Governor Josh Green to sign it, but admits she was hoping for more out of this measure. First and second-time offenders could get away with simply paying a fine, and maybe jail time if a judge orders it.

Saniatan said, "I'm just kind of disappointed that on the first and second we continue to fine them. These people somehow somehow get the money to pay for the fine."

Saniatan also does not agree with unlicensed drivers getting ticketed but being able to drive away. She would rather have a law that requires the car to be towed at the time of the offense.

"This is not for me,” said Saniatan. “It's for the community and it is for us to remember what happens when we drive without a license and we speed on the road, we lose a loved one, we lose Sara."

Saiki said there are still questions about imposing automatic impoundment of a car that need to be considered, but it remains a continuing conversation.

Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news

Governor Green has until July 10 to sign or veto the bill.

Skyline average daily ridership even lower than last year

Sat, 20 Apr 2024 02:45:18 +0000

HONOLULU (KHON2) -- Skyline continues to disappoint, with average ridership even lower than last year. The Director of Transportation Services said things will turn around once the second segment opens but that isn't until 2025.

Get Hawaii's latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You

"Ridership is far less than they projected which is disappointing," City Council Transportation Chair Tyler Dos Santos-Tam said. "The more riders we have the better it is for the system."

The City initially projected 10,000 people riding Skyline a day. With the exception of the grand opening in last summer, that has not been the case. In fact average ridership has dipped even lower the first three month of this year.

According to the City Skyline Ridership reports, between January and March 2024 an average 3,076 people rode the rail each day. That's compared to an average of 3,292 from June to Dec last year.

"Yea, it's a concern to me," Transportation Services Director Roger Morton said. "Ridership is less than I would like personally."

The lackluster head count is costing the the city more than expected.

According to Morton, the it costs about $50 per head to ride the rail, similar to what they pay per rider on Handivan.

"We know that in the portion we operate now often times the system runs faster in peak times but often times," he explained. "The problem is it doesn't go to the places that people want."

Once the next segment opens Dos Santos-Tam said the situation will change.

"The second phase goes to middle street and is going to open next year and is going to that's going to be really transformational," he said.

The second segment of the rail will end at the Middle Street Transit Center. According to HART, construction of the track and guideway is just about done and construction on the four stations in this segment is also expected to be finished within the next couple of months.

It's projected opening: Spring 2025.

Until then, Morton said they are doing what they can to get more people onboard.

"We know that when we take folks out on a tour there's a wow factor for those who have never riden Skyline before. So we're taking the opportunity right now to do as much of that as we can, and we're particularly concentrating on out keiki," Morton added. "If we can get our children to be faithful public transportation users that's going to go a long way."

Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news

He said they've recently invited a number of schools and kids groups in addition to working with other community organizations on upcoming events.

You can see the Monthly Ridership Reports and On-Time Performance percentages on the Skyline Ridership website.

Pearl City's Kai Kamaka III wins PFL debut

Sat, 20 Apr 2024 02:40:53 +0000

Pearl City's Kai Kamaka III successfully made his PFL debut in Chicago, defeating Bubba Jenkins via unanimous decision.

All three judges scored the fight 29-28, 29-28, 29-28 in favor of Kamaka, who was taken down three times but appeared to do more damage striking.

All the latest sports news from Hawaii's sports station

Kamaka and his opponent, Bubba Jenkins, both weighed in at 145.8 pounds for their featherweight bout.

Kamaka, who improved to 13-5-1 in his MMA career, has won four straight fights. Jenkins, the 2022 PFL featherweight runner-up, dropped to 21-8.

The fight between Kamaka and Jenkins kicked off the main card of PFL Regular Season Chicago 3 on Friday, which ends with a welterweight bout between Magomed Umalatov and Andrey Koreshkov.

Hawaii men's volleyball team signs NIL card deal

Sat, 20 Apr 2024 02:37:55 +0000

Members of the University of Hawaii men's volleyball team have signed name, image and likeness (NIL) deals with ONIT, where a total of 4,500 packs of trading cards of the team will be available for purchase across multiple locales on Oahu.

The cards are available for purchase at H-Zone at the Stan Sheriff Center, the UH-Manoa bookstore, in-person and online, as well as at 19 Texaco locations across the state.

All the latest sports news from Hawaii's sports station

Members of the team will be compensated for their autographs, of which there are a limited quantity in the packs, and will promote the cards on their respective social media accounts.

There are a total of 17 Texaco locations on Oahu selling the cards, as well as one on Maui and one on the Big Island:

Oahu

Kailua Texaco (710 Kailua Road)

Kapolei Texaco (91-565 Farrington Highway)

Kamokila Texaco (484 Kamokila Blvd.)

Aikahi Park Texaco (25 Kaneohe Bay Drive)

Moanalua Texaco (986 Valkenburgh St.)

Mililani Texaco (95-130 Kamehameha Highway)

Stadium Texaco (4561 Salt Lake Blvd)

Beretania Texaco (1378 S. Beretania Street)

Kapiolani Texaco 2969 S King Street)

Waiakamilo Texaco (909 Waiakamilo Road)

Kalihi Stream Texaco (2160 N King Street)

School Street Texaco (140 S School St.)

Mapunapuna Texaco (1055 Ahua Street)

Middle Street Texaco (1305 Middle Street)

Keolu Texaco (1070 Keolu Drive)

Maui

Uptown Texaco (2085 Main Street)

Hawaii Island

Waiakea Texaco (321 Maka’ala Street)

The Rainbow Warriors will face UC Irvine in the Big West semifinals at 7 p.m. tonight.

Historic, cherished Kōke’e cabins auctioned to new lease-holders

Sat, 20 Apr 2024 02:18:24 +0000

HONOLULU (KHON2) -- Seven cabins in Kōkeʻe and Waimea Canyon State Parks have new, ecstatic lease-holders after being auctioned off on Thursday.

Get Hawaii's latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You

A total of 130 Kaua‘i residents attended the auction, some waiting more than an hour to get inside the venue.

While only seven cabins were listed, reports said final bids for each cabin were significantly higher than expected.

The DLNR revealed that six of the seven lots set record prices with three bids more than doubling the highest price at the 2011 auction.

Paddles for the bidding on the cabins in Kōkeʻe and Waimea Canyon State Parks on April 19th, 2024. Courtesy: DLNR
Kauai residents bidding on cabins in Kōkeʻe and Waimea Canyon State Parks on April 19th, 2024. Courtesy: DLNR
Kauai residents waiting to bid on cabins in Kōkeʻe and Waimea Canyon State Parks on April 19th, 2024. Courtesy: DLNR

Here's how it worked. Each cabin was presented on a screen with the minimum bid. The audience would then hold up their numbered cards and outbid one another.

The competition was over when the auctioneer's hammer fell and the winning bid was announced.

I am grateful that we will be getting these neglected cabins into the hands of good stewards. But honestly, I was a little disheartened that this is the current price of entry into this storied cabin community. I hope this will be proven in the future to be an anomaly based on the immense pent-up demand, but I'll say this – it proved how incredibly cherished these parklands are for Kauaʻi residents.
DLNR Division of State Parks Assistant Administrator Alan Carpenter

The seven cabins auctioned off on Thursday have been returned to the State over the past ten years with many of them deteriorating.

Necessities such as electricity, internet and water are available, but significant work is still needed to enjoy the cabins.

"While the auction has successfully transitioned these abandoned and dilapidated structures over to members of the community that will repair them and care for them, it also showed that the process of an auction is pushing these cabins well beyond what the vast majority of our community members can ever afford," said Kōkeʻe Leaseholders Association President Chipper Wichman.

Check out what's going on around the nation on our National News page

During the second auction in 2011, the annual lease rent ranged between $2,500 to $18,000.

This time around, the opening bid for cabins ranged between $4,500 to $9,500. Reports said the winning bids ranged from $15,500 to $41,000 for the annual rental.

Happy 4/20: Where to find free or discounted food on April 20

Sat, 20 Apr 2024 01:41:54 +0000

(NEXSTAR) – If you find yourself feeling a bit snacky on Saturday (for whatever reason; we’re not here to judge), you might be totally stoked to learn that plenty of fast-food chains are offering discounted food on 4/20.

Need the details? Grab your Visine and take a look at the offers below. From burger bundles to complimentary cookies, there's something to satisfy any ravenous cravings that arise throughout the day. (For whatever reason, of course.)

Fatburger

Fatburger customers can get an Original Fatburger for just $4.20 from participating locations on April 20. But the deal isn’t available in-store — orders must be placed online at Order.Fatburger.com.

Insomnia Cookies

Insomnia Cookies is offering customers the chance to “trade in your munchies” for a free cookie through April 22: Guests are instructed to bring in a canned or sealed food item for a free cookie, no other purchase necessary. Customers who make purchases of $5 or more can also redeem a free cookie by showing the app at checkout, or when ordering for delivery via the app. Folks ordering online or through the app can also get $4.20 off a dozen cookies at participating locations.

Jimmy John’s

Jimmy John’s has curated a special “Deliciously Dope Dimebag” meal for April 20, offering the following items for $10 total: a smoked ham and provolone cheese sandwich with jalapeno-ranch dressing, crispy jalapenos and “extra herbs” (i.e., oregano and basil) along with a pickle spear, a fudge brownie and a bag of chips. Customers must order online from participating restaurants using the promo code DIMEBAG.

Pokeworks

Participating locations of Pokeworks are offering free delivery through April 21, no minimum order needed, a spokesperson for the chain told Nexstar.

Popeyes

Popeyes has launched a “Munchies Menu” for customers ordering online or via the app, offering the chance to buy a selection of their signature Chicken Sandwiches for $4.20 apiece from participating restaurants. The deal, announced earlier this week, runs through Saturday.

Smashburger

Feel like eating four burgers? On 4/20, Smashburger is offering four of its Classic Singles for $20 total at participating locations. Customers ordering online or in the app must select the bundle offer under the “Signature Burgers” category the restaurant’s site and app; in-store customers must mention the deal when ordering.

Toppers Pizza

As part of their “Toke Two” deal, Toppers Pizza is offering 50% off any triple-order of Topperstix (cheesy breadsticks) from 4:20 p.m. until close on both Saturday and Sunday.

White Castle

White Castle fans ordering via the Craver Nation app can redeem a buy-one-get-one offer for Impossible Sliders (which the restaurant notes are “made from plants.)”

Honorable mention

While not technically discounts, a couple of chains are offering special promotions for 4/20, including Smoothie King, which is offering 420 bonus points for Rewards members who order through the app on Saturday, and Wingstop, which is offering a special meal made with a “T.H.C.” rub — “T.H.C.” in this case standing for “The Hot Chili" — through Sunday.

Tax refund 2024: Smart ways to spend your check, according to experts

Sat, 20 Apr 2024 01:38:06 +0000

(NEXSTAR) – If you beat the tax filing deadline and managed to get a refund as well, you may be wondering what to do with the sudden influx of cash.

The average refund in 2024 was $3,011, according to the IRS, up from $2,878 the year before – but should that money go to paying down debt, investing or maybe a summer vacation?

While everyone's financial situation is different, experts have a few tips to consider after receiving a tax refund.

What to do first?

With inflation driving up the cost of basic necessities and the boon of stimulus checks an increasingly distant memory, many Americans may be balancing credit card payments and attempts to sock money away in savings or retirement accounts.

"In many cases what we're seeing is emergency savings have been wiped out, we're seeing a slight uptick in revolving debit," Arijit Roy, head of consumer segment & solutions at U.S. Bank told Nexstar. "All of that is to say that the ideal situation would be to first when you get the refund check use as much of it as possible to tackle any outstanding debt."

Roy says the most important types of debt to target are the ones that are revolving or don't have fixed rates, like credit card debt.

"If upon reflection, it feels like look, that's not a major issue, then padding or re-padding your emergency savings is actually a really important step because we're seeing the outflow of savings," Roy said, adding that today's high interest rates are rewarding savers who put money in CDs, savings and money market accounts.

Many financial experts advise stashing away at least three to six months' worth, but Erika Kullberg, a lawyer and personal finance expert, thinks that amount should be more.

“Especially now, it feels like six to nine months is a better benchmark,” Kullberg told CNBC in a recent interview.

If you need to pay off debt before expanding your emergency fund, financial expert Jeff Massey recommends using the "snowball effect."

Massey says focusing on paying down the card with the highest interest rate will save money, and you should pay minimums on everything else.

“When you pay that [card] off, take all of that money that you are paying monthly and bring it to your next credit card,” Massey told WPRI.

Tricks to saving?

While interest rates are high, so is the cost of groceries, rent, energy and just about everything else, which can make it hard to save while enjoying the same lifestyle.

Roy says one important thing to do is to take one's approach to the tax refund and apply it at other times during the year. Whether it's an "extra" paycheck month, a bonus at work or some other unexpected influx of cash, treat it the way you would that tax refund, whether it goes to an emergency fund, debts, retirement savings or other financial goals.

Another effective way to save, Roy says, is to embrace compound interest and start small.

"Maybe in the first week you save $1, or $10 or $100, and in the second week you save $2, or $20 or $200. There will come a point when you're like 'I can't do more,' but compounding interest is so powerful," Roy said.

Finding ways to save is increasingly important, experts say, as credit card debt continues to soar.

The overall U.S. economy is in better shape than many forecasters thought it would be a year ago, Shernette McLoud, an economist with TD Economics wrote in a February report, "However, more recently that spending is increasingly being financed by credit cards."

“You have these noticeable pockets of consumers -- mostly middle- and lower-income renters who have not benefitted from the wealth effect of higher housing prices and stock prices -- who are feeling financial stress and that’s driving up these delinquency levels. They’ve been hit very hard by inflation,” said Warren Kornfeld, a senior vice president at Moody’s, in an interview.

Earlier this year, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York found that credit card balanced had jumped by $50 billion in the fourth quarter of 2023, soaring to a record $1.13 trillion.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

FAA issues new rules to combat air traffic controller fatigue

Sat, 20 Apr 2024 01:37:51 +0000

(The Hill) – The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is issuing new rules and guidelines to combat reports of fatigue among air traffic controllers.

To lower the risk of exhaustion and burnout, the controllers will be mandated to take 12 hours off before midnight shifts and 10 hours off between shifts in general, FAA Administrator Michael Whitaker said in a statement released on Friday.

The requirements will be effective in 90 days.

The new guidelines come after the FAA commissioned a panel of experts in late 2023 to find new avenues on how to “better address controller fatigue.”

The 114-page report said that lack of sleep, particularly with night shifts, can compromise safety and lead to accidents.

“In my first few months at the helm of the FAA, I toured air traffic control facilities around the country — and heard concerns about schedules that do not always allow controllers to get enough rest,” Whitaker said. “With the safety of our controllers and national airspace always top of mind for FAA, I took this very seriously — and we’re taking action.”

After the guidelines were released by the FAA, the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) said they were “encouraged” by agency action they have taken on the issue.

But the NATCA was also “disappointed” that collaboration between the union and the FAA was not executed.

The union warned the “immediate” implementation of the new guidelines could lead to schedules not being adequately covered with an already short-staffed roster.

“For more than a decade, NATCA has been sounding the alarm about the FAA’s staffing shortage and the fatigue and stress that places on the hardworking controllers we represent,” NATCA said in a Friday statement.

“NATCA is concerned that with an already understaffed controller workforce, immediate application of the Administrator’s new rules may lead to coverage holes in air traffic facilities’ schedules. These holes may affect National Airspace System capacity. Requiring controllers to work mandatory overtime to fill those holes would increase fatigue and make the new policy nothing more than window dressing.”

Apple pulls WhatsApp, Threads from App Store in China on Beijing’s orders

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 23:50:00 +0000

HONG KONG >> Apple said it had removed Meta’s WhatsApp messaging app and its Threads social media app from the App Store in China to comply with orders from Chinese authorities.

Tsunamis can happen anytime, are you ready

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 22:10:27 +0000

HONOLULU (KHON2) -- This month is tsunami awareness month. It is so very important to be aware of the potential of a tsunami and be ready at all times, because there is no season for tsunamis. They can happen at any time.

HIEMA Administrator James Barros has a new pilot program to get representatives from schools, teach them about tsunamis and have them spread the word.

Carlos Chirivi is one of the several St. Louis School Tsunami Ambassador from the eight grade. He spoke to us alongside Administrator Barros on Friday morning on Wake Up 2Day.

Question: Administrator Barros: Tell me about the ambassador tsunami program – why it was created and describe its purpose?

Administrator Barros: We want to highlight the partnership between Saint Louis School, Hi-EMA, and the Pacific Tsunami Museum and others. Explain that this collaboration shows a commitment to educating the younger generation about tsunami preparedness and mitigation.

Question: Why is Hawaii’s location in the Pacific ocean’s "Ring of Fire" significant, and how does this affect our vulnerability to tsunamis?

St. Louis ambassador Carlos Chirivi: Speak on living in an area where earthquakes and volcanic eruptions happens, putting Hawaii at risk for tsunamis. Explain how understanding the history of tsunamis on the islands - can help people take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their communities.

Question: Why is it important to educate communities on preparing for natural disasters like tsunamis?

St. Louis ambassador Carlos Chirivi: By educating our youth about the power and destructive potential of tsunamis, they can hopefully make informed decisions during emergency situations and share their knowledge with others at school and at home. It's all about being ready and knowing what to do to stay out of harm's way.

Being prepared – knowing what to do, recognizing signs – can help minimize loss of life and property damage during future tsunami events. Identifying where tsunamis are most likely going to hit can also help us better prepare and better keep ourselves and the communities we work in, play in, and live in safe.

Among the St. Louis School Ambassadors are: Damien Vespoli, Chase Kawakami, Azariah Hurd, Jeyton Fong, Isaiah Poloa, Carlos Chiviri and Elliot Perriera.

Ewa Makai Middle School bans e-bikes on campus after crash

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 21:47:00 +0000

Ewa Makai Middle School says starting Monday, e-bikes will no longer be permitted on school grounds.

Bystanders rescue man, 78, found unconscious off Turtle Bay

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 21:35:00 +0000

A 78-year-old man who was found unresponsive while snorkeling near Turtle Bay Resort was rescued and taken to a hospital Thursday, according to Honolulu Emergency Medical Services.

Giddy up to the Raider Rodeo

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 21:25:42 +0000

HONOLULU (KHON2) -- Get ready for the "Raider rodeo," this year's annual ʻIolani Fair.

Get Hawaii's latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You

Wake Up 2Dayʻs Chris Latronic met up with some of the busy and excited ʻIolani Fair crew who have been working tirelessly in the past months to make this festive weekend come to life.

ʻIolani student volunteers Baily Ah Cook, Ainsley Lee, Brenden Bell, Mimi Katada, Ryker Yamamoto and Liliko Ueda explained that there's something for everyone -- midway games, rides, a general store, a silent auction, keiki activities, including a petting zoo and pony rides, and, of course, delicious food.

This year's rodeo theme includes tasty dishes such as their Southwest chicken wrap, bbq pork burnt ends, brisket platter and apple pie, along with our beloved fair classics of giant turkey legs, gumbo, huli-beef sandwich, waffle dog and Okinawan soba noodles.

Executive chef of Sodexo, Lydell Leong cooked us their featured dish, the misoyaki salmon. The buggah was ono!

For the kids, visit the keiki kountry for a fun-filled area for young fairgoers. Enjoy great games and art activities for the keiki. Itʻs located in the big tent next to the General Store booths.

You can also stop by their petting zoo and pony ride area located behind the general store and keiki kountry tent.

Check out more news from around Hawaii, Oahu, Kauai and Maui

The fair hours are noon - 5 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Find out more on the ʻIolani Fair website.

Tech stocks drag Wall Street to another losing week

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 21:25:00 +0000

NEW YORK >> The worst week for big technology stocks since the COVID crash in 2020 dragged Wall Street today across the finish line of another losing week.

Miss Hawaii USA 2023 bids farewell as new lady set to take reign

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 21:18:38 +0000

Miss Hawaii USA 2023 bids farewell to her year of reign.

Get Hawaii's latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You

Miss Hawaii USA 2023, Savannah Gankiewicz, took time to reflect on her last year.

"Some of my favorite memories were really going into this year and knowing I can make an impact. I knew I wanted to not only inspire but also be an impactful leader for this year. I did just that and also the connections I made at Miss Hawaii USA and Miss USA. I made friends with so many of the girls."

Check out more news from around Hawaii, Oahu, Kauai and Maui

When asked what advice she would give to the contestants this year and the years ahead she said, "Be yourself, and speak from the heart. I wanted to show people not only what I looked like outwardly, but also what my heart was trying to give." In the future, Savannah is looking to start a boutique hotel in Bali and is looking forward to her entrepreneurial endeavors.

The Miss Hawaii USA pageant, hosted by Brigette Namata and Justin Cruz, will air on KHON2 and KHII tonight at 7 p.m. and stream on KHON2.com. We will also be live from the red carpet starting at 6:30 p.m. with Mikey Monis.

This is the experience you've been looking for

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 20:36:17 +0000

HONOLULU (KHON2) -- Japan along with the British, Romans and Greeks have a long history of theatre that involves men playing the parts of women.

Kabuki was created in Japan during the early Edo period which is around the early 1600s. It was an artform for the people, much like Shakespeare, in that it was mostly marketed to commoners as entertainment. When it first began, women were the actors.

Get Hawaii's latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You

Eventually, as the art style became more popular, women were excluded from performing kabuki because society was afraid that women would spontaneously become immoral.

In Hawaiʻi, there are special events that present kabuki theatre. One such institution is the University of Hawaiʻi Manoa's Department of Theatre and Dance and Kennedy Theatre.

For 100 years, the school has presented kabuki in English; and this year, they are taking the production to Japan after it premieres here.

If you haven't ever been to see a kabuki play, then we cannot recommend this new production enough.

The students and faculty along with a few community volunteers are inviting you to join them on an epic kabuki journey as they showcase The Maiden Benten and the Bandits of the White Wave.

Watching this art form truly makes the anime style of art from Japan make sense. The dramatic pauses, the high-pitched voices, the drawn-out dialogue, the brightly colored sets: It all comes together to create an experience that is unique, clever and a challenge to conventional norms.

"We are very excited for this production," said Jessica L. Jacob who is the Kennedy Theatre Manager. "Students have been working hard in preparation for this year's foray into Japanese theatre, and we have several visiting artists who are advising on this production."

Two of the main characters, Benten Kozo (played by Karese Kaw-uh) and Nango Rikimaru (played by Isabella O'Keeffe), were able to capture the essence of kabuki theatre in a most innovative way.

That is, UH integrates female performers, breaking with the old Japanese tradition of exclusion based on sex.

In the story, a young maiden (Kozo) is out looking for wedding attire with her samurai bodyguard (Rikimaru). She is accused of stealing and beaten by the shopkeeper and his staff.

The samurai rebukes their fowl behavior and attempts to extort a large amount of money from the store's owner and his son. But a samurai (Nippon Daemon) shows up and spoils their plans by exposing that the two are con artists.

To thank the samurai, the shop's owner offers gifts; but the samurai reveals that in actuality, he is the leader of a five-person group of bandits known as the White Wave of whom Kozo and Rikimaru are both members.

As the story unfolds, we learn more about the shopkeeper and his son and Kozo and Daemon. It all ends in a dramatic battle between the group of bandits and village police.

As the play moves along its timeline, the audience is able to experience a live mini orchestra that is there to provide ambiance as well as dramatic emphasis for characters' acts of defiance or bravery.

One of the fun aspects of the kabuki experience is the entertainers that wander the aisles as set changes take place. In this, the audience becomes a part of the story as minor characters engage and interact to move the story forward.

The play is written by Kawatake Mokuami.

“To be able to learn from them in this capacity, it’s nothing like I would have ever experienced elsewhere before. It’s a little nerve racking but also more than that, it’s just this chance to grow,” said Kaw-uh, who, according to UH, made the move to Hawaiʻi after learning about UH Manoa’s internationally recognized Asian theatre program.

It is directed by Professor Julie A. Iezzi.

“They are the masters, so it is absolutely critical that students learn directly from the source rather than through videos and secondhand information,” said Iezzi. “We’re really fortunate that actors are willing to come here and work so diligently and for so long with our students.”

You can catch this wonderful production at Kennedy Theatre on the UH Mānoa campus this weekend, April 19 and 20 and next weekend, April 26-28. Friday and Saturday performances are at 7:30 p.m., and the Sunday public performance is at 2 p.m.

Tickets range from $5 to $25, depending on various factors. As mentioned earlier, this play will be taken to Japan to share with Japanese audiences who get to experience their art form in English.

You can click here to purchase your tickets.

Get news on the go with KHON 2GO, KHON's morning podcast, every morning at 8

So, what are you waiting for? Go, get your tickets so you and your friends and family can have a wonderful night to remember.

Miss Hawaii Teen USA 2024 is....

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 20:11:03 +0000

HONOLULU (KHON2) -- The 2024 Miss Hawaii Teen USA pageant was held Thursday evening at the Ala Moana Hotel by Mantra, where nine young women fought for the coveted title of the island's teen.

Get Hawaii's latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You

Girls from across the islands came together in the name of sisterhood and community to showcase themselves and advocate for the things they believe in.

After several months of hard work and vigorous training, the girls took to the stage over two days, competing in fitness wear and evening gowns on the runway, and going through interviews behind the scenes and even on stage.

When it came down to announce the final 5 girls, another on-stage question was asked to each girl to showcase the contestants poise and knowledge.

At the end of the night it was Maui's Hokuaokaʻale Gilman who walked away with the crown and title of the new Miss Hawaii Teen USA 2024.

Other special awards were given to contests such as, Congeniality, Fitness, Photogenic and more.

Gilman will move onto the national competition in Hollywood, California, where she will compete for the Miss Teen USA 2024 crown.

Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news

KHON2 News would like to extend a major congratulations to all the girls who competed and wishes the best of luck to the new Miss Hawaii Teen USA Hokuaookaale Gilman for her year of reign.

Did you know this volunteer organization has come to Honolulu?

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 20:08:35 +0000

HONOLULU (KHON2) -- Are you ready to give back and make a change?

Gay4Good is a non-profit volunteer organization that offers back up help for other non-profits that need volunteers.

Get Hawaii's latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You

The organization works to provide much needed volunteer support in such a way that it allows the supported non-profit to focus on their events while G4G organizes its legion of volunteers.

In Honolulu, G4G is pretty new. The chapter here is an affiliate of the larger non-profit that began in California.

KHON2.com was able to catch up with Bob Brunner who is one of the local organizers for Oahu's chapter of Gay4Good.

"We are a fairly new chapter on Oahu for Gay4Good, which is an organization that started on the mainland nonprofit back in 2008," said Brunner. "I was actually part of that way back then, not in terms of organizing, starting it, I should say. I worked as a volunteer. What they started with was the idea that they would take queer people of all sorts and sizes and their allies out into the nonprofit sector to do volunteer work."

It's a relatively small chapter that is looking for more likeminded people who are ready to give back and make the changes needed to create a better world for everyone.

Brunner explained that they are here "just to be a presence not to have any other agenda other than that."

When you volunteer with G4G, you wear a small name tag with your personal pronouns, if you prefer, that says Gay4Good.

"We do whatever work is needed," said Brunner.

Brunner retired a few years ago and moved to the Hawaii. Then, last year, he began doing a lot of volunteering in different capacities and areas and with different organizations. This is when he decided that it would be a good idea to start up a G4G chapter.

He has helped organize volunteers for a few events over the last several months, working with various non-profit organizations to help them get the volunteer support they need.

"I'm kind of excited about doing that and always looking for a couple of leaders to help with the organization of the next event and the next event and the next event...," Brunner said amused.

If you are interested in joining Brunner and his fellow squadron of volunteers to help out around Honolulu, then click here.

He will definitely appreciate the help.

Get news on the go with KHON 2GO, KHON's morning podcast, every morning at 8

"We envision a world where all people regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity or expression feel seen, safe, valued, included, celebrated, equal and pride," explained Brunner. "We believe in the power of service and working hand-in-hand with community partners to foster mutual understanding and respect for all."

Man sets himself on fire outside Trump trial courthouse

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 19:53:23 +0000

NEW YORK — A person has self-immolated outside the Manhattan courthouse where former President Trump’s first criminal trial is ongoing, police confirmed to The Hill.

Max Azzarello, 37, walked into a park outside the courthouse where protests of Trump’s trial have taken place this week and threw conspiratorial pamphlets in the air before pouring an accellerant on himself and setting himself on fire, New York Police Department spokespeople said at a press conference Friday.

The incident drew a heavy emergency response. Ambulances lined the block where he set themself on fire.

(Zach Schonfeld)

Police said Azzarello, 37, traveled from Florida to New York “sometime earlier this week,” police said. They labeled him a “conspiracy theorist” and indicated that the incident was not intended to target any individual or group – including Trump or the protestors outside the courthouse.

On various social media accounts, reviewed by The Hill, Azzarello espoused conspiracy theories about the U.S. government and prominent individuals. Police acknowledged the social media posts and said the accounts will be “scrubbed.”

The man is in critical condition but alive and intubated, police said. Three NYPD officers and one court officer had minor injuries from the fire but are “all fine.”

Videos of the situation posted on the social media platform X showed at least one person attempting to pat down the fire with a suit jacket, before another individual with a fire extinguisher put out the fire.

A witness told PIX11 News they were standing next to a man when he poured a flammable liquid on himself, told her to stand back and then lit himself on fire. The witness said he made statements of a political nature before the incident.

In the same timeframe that the incident occurred, a full jury panel was officially selected to hear the case.

With 12 primary jurors and six alternates seated, the trial can move into opening remarks on Monday.

Police said they are “very concerned” about the fact that an Azzarello was able to self-immolate in such close proximity to the trial, adding that they intend to review their security protocols even though the Florida man “did not breach the security protocols.”

The officials also said that a bomb squad swept the area around the Manhattan courthouse and that nothing was found. Local police are continuing to work with Secret Service.

“We'll make decisions if we need to tighten up security, maybe we'll shut down the park – this is something that we’ll determine once we talk with all our partners, with the court officers, to make sure that, with everything going on – the gravity of the event going on right now – we have ample security,” a police official said.

The jury selection process lasted four days. Several prospective jurors, who were ultimately excused, expressed anxiety about serving on the high-profile panel given the media attention it is expected to receive.

Before moving on, Trump’s lawyers will discuss his possible trial testimony at a hearing this afternoon, where the judge will decide which topics prosecutors can cross-examine the former president about if he takes the stand. The process is intended to enable Trump to make an informed decision about whether to testify.

The topics span 13 different court determinations involving Trump in other cases.
Trump is accused of falsifying business records in connection with a hush money deal with an adult film actress made ahead of the 2016 election. He has pleaded not guilty.

Updated 3:50 p.m.

Oahu middle school to ban e-bikes after recent critical collision

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 18:52:31 +0000

EWA, Hawaii (KHON2) -- A local middle school in Ewa will ban e-bikes at school starting on Monday, April 22.

Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news

The principal of Ewa Makai Middle School wrote a letter to parents that they are prioritizing safety for students and staff.

Ewa Makai announced it will ban e-bikes one week after a 12-year-old boy riding an e-bike was sent to the hospital in critical condition. The critical collision happened less than one mile away from the middle school.

"I think a lot of the kids at the age they're at don't understand the rules of the road. When you do an e-bike, it's like driving a car," Ewa resident Tony Gomes said.

The school said in the letter that registered owners of e-bikes must be 18 years old. Children 16 and 17 must get permission from the owner to ride the e-bike -- 15 year olds must get permission and wear a helmet.

"We're certainly supportive of the current laws being enforced, but I do think there's an opportunity, clearly there's a demand for younger people riding these electric bikes," Hawaii Bicycling League executive director Travis Counsell said. "So really, we just take more of an education standpoint rather than just outlawing it."

KHON2 has not heard whether students will face ramifications in school if they ride an e-bike on campus on Monday, but there will be consequences for their parents.

The school said it informed Honolulu police about the new rule and said in part through the letter:

"Students found riding e-bikes in the community or parked on our campus, may be issued court citations, resulting in fines and a possible court appearance for a parent or guardian."
Kim Sanders, Ewa Makai Middle School principal

The Ewa Neighborhood board said a citation is not enough and confiscation would send a stronger message.

"To me, a citation is a slap on the wrist because the kid will take the bike home, that's still illegal! It's like, 'Okay, here, here's a citation, buddy, now go ride your bike home,'" Ewa Neighborhood Board chair Mitchell Tynanes said. "This came up again at our neighborhood board, and the HPD said it's better to have this in place at the schools because the HPD don't want to see these guys on the road and chase them, that's when accidents happen."

Check out more news from around Hawaii, Oahu, Kauai and Maui

HPD said it is only aware of Ewa Makai Middle School enacting a ban. The Department of Education said the increased enforcement from police is in response to the recent critical collision.

Honolulu's music legacy: Discover Live Music gems

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 18:35:47 +0000

HONOLULU (KHON2) -- Friday, April 19 is National Hangout Day. So, we are going to focus on a staple in Honolulu, live music. If you talk to any of Honolulu's old-time locals, they talk about the days when live music could be heard everywhere.

From what we have heard, it was mostly all free with numerous musicians being celebrated on a near daily basis.

Get Hawaii's latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You

There are some places who have kept this tradition alive. Places like Hula's Bar & Lei Stand features live music every night of the week that is free to patrons. They even have a live DJ every night.

To find out a bit more about some of our talented locals who are live musicians, KHON2.com was able to talk story with Dr. Gary Pak. He is a retired Emeritus Professor at University of Hawaiʻi's English Department.

Pak is also a poet and was a part of Windward Community College's Out Loud! event. He is now a jazz pianist who thinks that there is not enough live music anymore.

"I played music since I was a little kid, played classical piano and; and then I got introduced to jazz when I was in college," said Pak. "That, wow, you know, Chick Corea and Herbie Hancock, Oscar Peterson and Art Tatum. So, when I came back home after college, I started taking lessons from this really good BB player called Ernie Washington."

Pak went to say that Washington played with Dizzy Gillespie and numerous other famous jazz musicians. It was their influence and talent that helped Pak develop his own passion for jazz music.

"I stopped for a number of years because I had to because I was into community organizing," remembered Pak. "Then, I got a family. But my oldest son ended up getting into music, and he kind of pushed me in a way. I started getting back into it and started playing with people and doing a few straight up jazz gigs."

He met a drummer, and they have been playing together at Proof Social Club in Chinatown.

In honor of Pak's request, we have provided information on live music performances that are taking place over the weekend. Some are free; others are not. But they all offer a wonderful opportunity to bond with friends and family and enjoy some local talent.

Friday, April 19

Reggae musician Kaleo Wassman is performing at Blue Note Hawaiʻi 6:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. You can click here for tickets.

Jasmin Nicole is performing at Monkeypod Ko Olina at 12:30 p.m. You can click here for tickets.

Yoza is performing at Hula's Grill Waikiki from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. You can click here for tickets. Yoza is also performing at Paradise Lounge at 7 p.m. Click here for tickets.

TwelveNoon & Midnite is performing at The Twin Fin Hotel Pool at 3 p.m.

Kings Kalohelani is performing at Hideout Waikiki in The Laylow Autograph Collection Hotel from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Lovejack is performing at Ala Moana Center Ewa Wing Stage from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Boris & Isa is performing at Hinana Bar - 5th Floor Pool Bar - Prince Waikiki from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

DJ: Riana S. is performing at Mara Restaurant in Renaissance Honolulu Hotel & Spa from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Lina Robins is performing at Aloha Beer Kaka'ako Beer Garden from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

DJ: A•i•T is performing at Hideout Waikiki in The Laylow Autograph Collection Hotel from 8:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.

Lovejack is performing at The HI BRAU Room Aloha Beer Co. from 8:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.

Live Music with Kalau is taking place at Hula's Bar & Lei Stand from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. This a free event. You can click here for more information.

Saturday, April 20

Jazz Blues musician Larry Carlton is performing at Blue Note Hawaiʻi 6:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. You can click here for tickets.

Reggae musicians The Green With Allen Stone is performing at the Blaisdell at 7 p.m.. You can click here for tickets.

The HapaSymphony featuring Robert Cazimero s performing at Hawaiʻi Theatre at 7:30 pm. You can click here for tickets.

DJ Justin Martin will be performing at The Republik at 9 p.m. You can click here for tickets.

Yoza is performing at Rumfire p.m. You can click here for tickets.

Sierra Lucia is performing at Monkeypod Kitchen WaikikiSaturday, April 20, 202412:30pm-2:30pm

Boris & Isa is performing at Hideout Waikiki in The Laylow Autograph Collection Hotel from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Chris Salvado is performing at Sway Bar & Grill Renaissance Honolulu Hotel & Spa 8th Floor Great Lawn & Pool from 5p.m. to 8 p.m.

La'amea is performing at Ala Moana Center Ewa Wing Stage from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Live Music with Johnny the 3rd is taking place at Hula's Bar & Lei Stand from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. This a free event. You can click here for more information.

Sunday, April 21

Jazz Blues musician Larry Carlton is performing at Blue Note Hawaiʻi 6:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. You can click here for tickets.

Hawai‘i Symphony Orchestra Presents Beethovenfest at Hawaiʻi Theatre at 4 p.m. You can click here for tickets.

Jason Movrich & Friends are performing live at Maui Brewing Co. at 8:30 p.m. This is a free event.

QUEEN: Featuring DJ Jem is performing at Hideout Waikiki in The Laylow Autograph Collection from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Lovejack is performing at Arden Waikiki Lotus Honolulu Hotel from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Melaniie is performing at Hinana Bar 5th Floor Pool Bar Prince Waikiki from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Sierra Lucia is performing at Monkeypod Kitchen Ko Olina from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Live Music with Tad Jennings is taking place at Hula's Bar & Lei Stand from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. This a free event. You can click here for more information.

Get news on the go with KHON 2GO, KHON's morning podcast, every morning at 8

So, there you have it. Lots of ways to make memories this weekend all while supporting local musical talent. Have fun!

Food prices and rent continue to rise for Honolulu residents

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 18:24:38 +0000

HONOLULU (KHON2) -- Food and housing costs are the top expenses that continue increasing for Honolulu residents, eating at restaurants increased by more than 7% over the last 12 months, while rents have increased by 11%.

Get Hawaii's latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You

The rising costs may be causing stress for many, but Ethan Ho the founder of Kala Capital Partners said do not be afraid to tackle those expenses head on.

"Look at where you're spending the most money in relationship to your income and figure out the biggest area that you can cut first,” said Ho. “You want to spend the time and energy in the place that's going to be the biggest most meaningful difference."

Ho said to start by creating a spending plan, prioritizing items that must be paid for such as housing, food, insurance and other important payments like student loans.

And then consider what other areas of spending matter.

"I don't think it's important to say hey you can't go to Starbucks and buy that coffee, right if that's important to you, do it,” said Ho. “But something's got to give somewhere so just make purposeful and thoughtful decisions when it comes to your spending plan."

The State Economist Dr. Eugene Tian said there are wider impacts from the rising inflation. He said Hawaii’s economy could be stunted.

Dr. Tian said, "Overall the spending in real dollars will decrease and it will also impact the visitor. So if our price is higher, and the visitors may not be willing to come."

Hawaii’s consumer price index is more than 1% higher than the national average. Dr. Tian said the limited housing inventory adds to the squeeze. He predicts inflation will continue to rise.

Dr. Tian said, "This inflation may last for another few months before it is leveling."

But those are just predictions.

Ho said, "Focus on what's your control."

Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news

Such as how money is spent and invested.

Man, 37, sets himself on fire outside Trump’s trial in Manhattan

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 18:19:00 +0000

NEW YORK >> A man set himself on fire this afternoon near the lower Manhattan courthouse where jurors were being chosen for the criminal trial of former President Donald Trump.

Barricade in Waianae comes to end after 16 hours

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 17:50:28 +0000

HONOLULU (KHON2) -- A barricade situation has come to an end after a suspect was arrested shortly after 6:30 a.m.

Get Hawaii's latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You

Honolulu police said an armed man barricaded himself inside his Waianae home Thursday morning.

Sheriff deputies were trying to serve an eviction notice Thursday morning to the man in a home on Ala Walua St.

HPD evacuated a neighboring home during the 16-hour incident.

A K9 was reported to have sustained injuries during the incident and was checked out by EMS but no other injuries were reported.

The DOE announced that Waianae Intermediate would be closed Friday due to the investigation. All after-school programs and activities were also canceled. No other schools were affected.

The school was in a soft lockdown Thursday afternoon when the incident started.

Police have listed the incident as an aggravated assault.

Watch: Mountain biker has close encounter with rattlesnake after crash

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 16:42:34 +0000

SAN DIEGO (KSWB) -- A mountain biker had a close encounter with a rattlesnake earlier this month in California's Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve.

Manuel Altamirano and his friends were riding their bikes on a trail when Altamirano fell off his bike and crashed into the dirt, winding up face-to-face with a rattlesnake.

"I’ve had countless encounters with these guys over the years, but it’s the first time I crashed on one. It all happened so fast," Altramirano said in an Instagram post.

After the crash, Altramirano captured the rattlesnake on video right next to his bike's front tire.

"I hit him when I crashed," he said in the video while trying to catch his breath.

Altramirano added in the video that he didn't realize the snake was there when he crashed.

"I tried to stop, but I ended up washing out and rolled the front tire over him. I was already bailing off the rear at this point. Thankfully, he turned out to be very chill about it all, and it doesn’t look like he got hurt," he said.

This wasn't Altramirano's first encounter with rattlesnakes while biking. "Usually, they are stretched out, and if you can't avoid them, you can hop over them," he said.

"In this case, he was coiled up in ready position…and I’ve had them try to strike me from that position before," he said.

April to September is rattlesnake season in the area. The San Diego Humane Society says to always keep pets on leashes while on a main trail; be alert by actively scanning the path in front of you; know where to go if bitten, and acknowledge the threat is always real.

If bitten, the County of San Diego Parks and Recreation advises to stay calm, immobilize the bitten extremity, wash the skin, remove any jewelry or tight-fitting clothing, and call 911 for help.

4/20 grew from humble roots to marijuana’s high holiday

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 15:35:00 +0000

SEATTLE >> Saturday marks marijuana culture’s high holiday, 4/20, when college students gather — at 4:20 p.m. — in clouds of smoke on campus quads and pot shops in legal-weed states thank their customers with discounts.

Ukraine, Israel aid back on track as House moves forward

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 15:23:00 +0000

WASHINGTON >> With rare bipartisan momentum, the House pushed ahead today on a foreign aid package of $95 billion for Ukraine, Israel, Taiwan and humanitarian support as a coalition of lawmakers helped it clear a procedural hurdle to reach final votes this weekend.

More U.S. emergency rooms refusing to treat pregnant women

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 15:15:00 +0000

WASHINGTON >> One woman miscarried in the lobby restroom of a Texas emergency room as front desk staff refused to admit her. Another woman learned that her fetus had no heartbeat at a Florida hospital, the day after a security guard turned her away from the facility. And in North Carolina, a woman gave birth in a car after an emergency room couldn’t offer an ultrasound. The baby later died.

UH advances in Big West tournament with win over UC Santa Barbara

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 10:06:00 +0000

The Hawaii men’s volleyball team isn’t done just yet.

Hawaii utilities focus on reducing wildfire risks

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 10:06:00 +0000

Hawaii’s two regulated electrical utilities told a pair of state Senate committees Thursday that they are trying to do as much as possible as fast as possible with wildfire risk mitigation.

Editorial: Put HECO on short leash for funding

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 10:06:00 +0000

The idea behind Senate Bill 2922, to create a “securitization” process for public utilities to recover costs related to enacting wildfire plans and protections, is as emotionally fraught as it is procedurally complex. So emotional that 1,200-plus Maui wildfire survivors opposed the bill because it would help Hawaiian Electric, which many blame for the Aug. 8 inferno; and so complex that even the state Attorney General’s Office was still honing its position this month.

Scoreboard – April 19, 2024

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 10:05:56 +0000

CALENDAR TODAY BASEBALL Big West: Cal Poly vs. Hawaii, 6:35 p.m. at Les Murakami Stadium. PacWest: doubleheader, Hawaii Pacific vs. Hawaii Hilo, 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. at Francis Wong Stadium. ILH: Maryknoll vs. Damien, Read More

Television and radio – April 19, 2024

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 10:05:14 +0000

On the air Listings are for Oceanic and Hawaiian Telcom analog/digital. *—premium station. **—retelecast. ***—delayed. Check your TV guide for latest updates. TODAY TIME TV CH HT AUTO RACING Xfinity Ag-Pro 300 qualifying 11:30 Read More

Laupahoehoe Music Festival returns: Benefit for charter school boasts solid lineup of island performers