When it comes to hazardous materials, officials are often unsure where the sites are or what they’d do in an emergency.
Alan D. McNarie
Alan D. McNarie has been covering the Big Island's people and issues for various publications for over a quarter century. He's published two novels: "Yeshua" and "The Soul Keys." He lives in Volcano. Email Alan at amcnarie@civilbeat.org
Posted inEnvironment
This Hilo Community Fears Its ‘Toxic’ Neighbors
With a nearby airport, landfill, sewage plant, port and petroleum tanks, Hawaiian Homestead residents in Keaukaha want health concerns addressed.
Posted inOpinion
Alan McNarie: This Nuke Plan Would Have Turned Hawaii Upside Down
During the Cold War, attack preparations were proposed that called for interisland evacuations and commandeering of property.
Posted inOpinion
Alan McNarie: The Hazards Of Swimming Near A Sewage Plant
A Big Island group documented at least 10 cases of infections contracted by people swimming near industrial sites.
Posted inOpinion
Alan McNarie: Creepy Christmas Guests Who Hitch A Ride On Your Tree
A Hilo store stopped selling some trees after complaints they harbored little fire ants. And they aren’t the only tiny holiday invaders.
Posted inOpinion
Alan McNarie: Hilo Hospital Goes It Alone With Rat Lungworm Treatment
Many of the disease’s more severe cases are popping up on the Big Island, where the resident expert prefers an aggressive approach.
Posted inOpinion
Alan McNarie: Lab’s Rat Lungworm Research Finally Gave This Man A Diagnosis
Promising work at the University of Hawaii Hilo is drastically underfunded while $1 million is spent on public education about the disease.
Posted inOpinion
Alan McNarie: The Men Of Paa
This nonprofit group aims to change destructive lifestyles into positive forces for the community.
Posted inOpinion
Alan McNarie: Helicopter Noise On The Big Island Has Residents Buzzing
Protesters decry “dirty tourism” during a demonstration outside the Hilo airport. “It’s never been this bad,” said a County Council member.