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April is Volunteer Month throughout the nation; recent data show additional federal funding cutbacks are placing unprecedented strain on organizations that provide backbone of support for the state’s social, environmental and educational safety nets.

“Michael’s leadership is nothing short of visionary,” wrote Hawaiʻi State Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Plus (LGBTQ+) Commission in a joint statement. “From shaping policy to building community, he has dedicated his life to ensuring that LGBTQ+ people in Hawaiʻi are not only protected but empowered to thrive.”

Launch window opens at 12:24 p.m. Hawai‘i Standard Time — in less than T-minus 30 minutes now — for the first crewed flight in more than 50 years to blast off on a path toward the moon.

The plan will guide future investments and actions to create safer streets for everyone who walks, drives, bikes or rides transit.

The program is tailored for established, early-stage business owners ready to take the next step in growing their food-related businesses; space is limited, so those interested are encouraged to apply early.

Hawaiʻi Mesonet and Hawaiʻi Climate Data Portal data show the accumulated rainfall throughout 14 days in March during back-to-back kona lows reached as high as 3,000% of normal historical levels for this time of year, culminating in a destructive “rain bomb” over Oʻahu.

“Denim Day is more than a symbol — it’s a collective stand,” said Kauaʻi Committee on the Status of Women member Lori Barrett in the announcement. “When our community comes together, we amplify every voice, support every survivor and send a clear message that Kaua‘i believes, stands with and uplifts one another through awareness and action.”

These grants support preservation and protection of lands with natural, environmental, recreational, scenic, cultural, agricultural and historic value, while also providing public access and strengthening partnerships between government and community-based organizations.

“These rankings highlight the exceptional work and commitment of our faculty, students and staff,” said University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa Interim Provost Vassilis Syrmos in a university release. “They showcase the university’s global standing and reinforce that [University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa] offers outstanding educational opportunities and experiences for both our local community and those joining us from around the world.”

Bill funds initiatives to support suicide prevention, train medical professionals In suicide prevention and lethal means safety.

Visitors are welcome back as shops and restaurants reopen and Oʻahu’s North Shore recovers.

Department will conduct precautionary sampling and testing of nearshore waters — as well as flood-carried mud and sediment — to understand contaminant levels in the environment; personnel also actively monitoring mosquito populations and taking targeted action in impacted areas.

Citizen scientists on Kaua‘i observed 169 humpback whales March 28; a total of 435 whales were observed from shorelines at 37 sites throughout the islands.

Only 700 of the Hawaiian common gallinules are left in the world, most on Kaua’i; Pacific Birds Habitat Joint Venture and other sponsors of the upcoming event will share local art, moʻolelo and fun facts about the ʻalae ʻula and how people can help protect it.

New trailer and poster for live-action version of beloved animated film, plus behind-the-scenes featurette highlighting film’s craftsmanship and look at making of ‘Moana,’ are available now.

“This regime — as it attempts to rewrite history all over the place — it’s no surprise that they’ve set their sights on our national parks,” said the Democrat senator from Hawai‘i. “The millions of visitors to our national parks will not get a full picture. Apparently, that is exactly as this regime intends.”

The post became vacant with the retirement of now-former 5th Circuit Judge Randal Valenciano in October 2025; appointment of new judge will be made by Hawaiʻi Gov. Josh Green.

Kaua‘i County Agency on Elderly Affairs says these engaging “talk story” sessions will highlight several programs designed to support kūpuna with staying active, connected and well.

NOTE: In observance of Good Friday, April 3, there will be no contraflow or lane closures unless otherwise permitted; lane closure schedules can change at any time without further notice.

The protests are among thousands of others — including on other islands in Hawai’i — happening Saturday, March 28, throughout the nation; All Kaua‘i Indivisible members and supports are also welcome to special event immediately following the Līhuʻe protest.