Hawaii's burgeoning biotech sector, known for innovations like disease-resistant papayas and vaccine candidates, faces a threat from a World Trade Organization proposal to waive intellectual property protections for COVID tests and treatments. This waiver could undermine biotech innovation in the U.S., including Hawaii, by making investment in R&D less viable and potentially transferring valuable IP to China. The Biden administration's decision on the waiver is crucial, with calls for Congress to urge the president to reject it to protect U.S. jobs, economic output, and national security.

The article discusses the exclusion of AnnCatherine Heigl, a student with Down syndrome, from sorority recruitment at George Mason University. Despite her achievements and active participation in the university's cheerleading team, AC did not receive any bids from the eight sororities she visited. Her sister, Lillie Heigl, expressed her disappointment and concerns about inclusivity and discrimination in an email to the Mason Panhellenic, which governs the university's Greek organizations. The incident has sparked a broader conversation about the participation of students with disabilities in Greek life. The sororities mentioned have policies against discrimination, and the issue may involve individual bias or national policies that limit students who are not eligible for a traditional university degree. The article also notes that October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month, established by the National Down Syndrome Society.

The article by Heather Lusk discusses the rising concern of vaping in Zionsville Community Schools and its popularity among teens in the United States. Vaping devices, which can resemble everyday items like highlighters or USB drives, are unregulated by the FDA and can contain harmful chemicals even when labeled nicotine-free. The article highlights the efforts of public health educator Claire Haughton and ZCS Supt. Scott Robison in addressing the issue. It mentions the doubling of suspensions related to vaping in schools and the ease with which students can conceal these devices. The Boone County Health Dept. is advocating for measures to curb youth vaping, such as raising the tobacco purchase age and implementing stricter online purchase regulations. The article also provides information on the nature of vaping devices, the risks associated with their use, and resources for quitting tobacco.

The article discusses the Zionsville Country Veterinary Clinic, a newly constructed veterinary facility in Whitestown designed to provide a fear-free experience for pets. Dr. Shari Lyons, who owns the clinic with Dr. Rick Lyons, has incorporated features such as a Cattery with natural light and hiding spaces, separate entrances and exits for cats and dogs, soft tile floors, and outdoor exam rooms to reduce animal anxiety. The clinic also has larger surgery prep rooms, dental cleaning spaces, and a comfort room for bereavement. The design aligns with the fear-free initiative started by Dr. Marty Becker, aiming to make vet visits calming. The clinic is one of the first to be built from scratch to meet these upcoming standards, and the feedback from pet owners has been overwhelmingly positive.

The article emphasizes the importance of the 'Housing First' approach to address homelessness in Hawaii, highlighting the progress made under former Gov. David Ige and the potential for further advancements under Gov. Josh Green. It underscores the need for increased funding for homelessness services, affordable housing, and adequate compensation for service providers. The article also draws on Finland's successful model and calls for continued and enhanced support from the state legislature to improve public health and well-being through stable housing solutions.

Hepatitis C affects over 2.4 million people in the U.S., with significant prevalence in Hawaii. Despite available treatments, systemic barriers and geographic challenges hinder access to care. The article advocates for lifting prior authorization restrictions on hepatitis C treatment in Hawaii to meet the WHO's goal of eliminating viral hepatitis by 2030. It highlights the need for broader action, including increased resources for vulnerable populations and more primary care providers. The article also acknowledges local advocacy efforts and calls for continued policy work to create a hepatitis C-free Hawaii.

COVID-19 has highlighted the need for prioritizing public health in Hawaii, with the state budget benefiting from federal relief and increased tourism. However, vulnerable populations remain at risk without the release of funds by state departments. The article urges Gov. David Ige to sign the budget and direct agencies to release appropriated funds to support sexual assault victims, persons living with HIV, and others. Commendations are given to key legislative leaders for restoring health services funding. The Sex Abuse Treatment Center and AIDS services organizations are highlighted for their critical roles in providing care and preventing disease spread. The article calls for maintaining full funding to prevent exacerbating the human toll of COVID-19 with preventable outbreaks of HIV or tuberculosis.

Forever-Fit Camp, held at the Children’s Better Health Institute Fitness Farm in Indianapolis, is a day camp for children aged 8 to 12 coping with obesity. The camp focuses on teaching healthy food and exercise habits, involving families in the process. Activities include swimming, yoga, Zumba, and gardening. The camp aims to instill long-term healthy lifestyle changes, with ongoing support through fitness classes and events. Camp coordinator Elizabeth Ryan emphasizes the importance of physical activity, especially during times when children are less active due to remote learning.

Hawaii's tourism sector is reviving, but many residents and local businesses are still struggling. The article advocates for the passage of House Bill 58 and House Bill 133, which propose higher taxes on the wealthy and profitable corporations to fund community programs, rent assistance, and tax relief for unemployed workers. The bills aim to support local businesses, families, and workers, and address the state's regressive tax system. The text emphasizes the importance of maintaining government spending to ensure a faster economic recovery and highlights the ongoing challenges faced by small businesses and vulnerable families in Hawaii.

Hawaii faces a high rate of homelessness and unemployment exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Government leaders are proposing cuts to state programs, including those related to homelessness, which could worsen the situation. The article suggests that a better solution is to raise revenue by taxing the wealthy more, as they have not faced the same financial consequences of the pandemic. The Hawaii Tax Fairness Coalition has proposed measures to make the tax system more equitable, which could help save services vital to families during the pandemic.