Teen on Kauaʻi with Down Syndrome turns beach sand messages into business

Katrina Louise Martinez and her daughter, Ella Joy Marinez, have turned a loving habit of crafting sand messages into a unique company, Sand Scribletz.

The Kona Police Station, located at 74‑611 Hale Makai Place in Kailua‑Kona, is also accepting back‑to‑school supply donations prior to the event.

The curtain already fell on two performances, and we’d almost wager you’re not building a snowman — no matter if you want to or not. So there’s no reason to wait, especially if it’s the first time in forever you will catch a live show at historic Palace Theater in downtown Hilo.

The evening will showcase and celebrate Japan’s musical tradition with taiko, shakuhachi and shinobue as well as feature Puna Taiko and Taishoji Taiko from 5:30 to 8 p.m. June 20 at University of Hawai‘i at Hilo Performing Arts Center.

The message, posted the morning of June 16 on Facebook, was attached to an invite by Puna state Sen. Joy San Buenaventura to community members for them to join her for a party June 20 in Kea‘au.

Kealakehe High School senior Giselle Minez-Cruz and Makua Lani Christian Academy senior Aysha Pham were the 2026 Kaimana Scholars from Hawaiʻi County.

New resource provides detailed analysis of public investments supporting keiki from prenatal years through young adulthood.

A recap of the company’s activities from the past quarter along with plans for the remainder of 2026 to make Hawai‘i Island more energy resilient will be shared and energy-related questions from participants answered during the upcoming informational meeting; register to attend by June 26.

Hawaiʻi County has secured a two-month lease extension until Sept. 1 from Black Sand Beach LLC to continue discussions about the future of the beach that is a natural and cultural treasure.

A quick look at news from throughout the state, region and beyond.

The curtain already fell on two performances, and we’d almost wager you’re not building a snowman — no matter if you want to or not. So there’s no reason to wait, especially if it’s the first time in forever you will catch a live show at historic Palace Theater in downtown Hilo.

The evening will showcase and celebrate Japan’s musical tradition with taiko, shakuhachi and shinobue as well as feature Puna Taiko and Taishoji Taiko from 5:30 to 8 p.m. June 20 at University of Hawai‘i at Hilo Performing Arts Center.

June continues to offer a full slate of events, activities and festivals around the island.

“We have always believed that the best way to experience Hawaii is to truly get into it — its canyons, its waterfalls, its wild beauty. These two new tours let guests do exactly that, whether they’re seeking the ultimate adrenaline rush or a serene moment in the mist,” said Botanical World Adventures Managing Partner Mark Robinson.

Independence Day Parade and Fireworks Extravaganza light up the July 4th holiday in Kailua-Kona; everyone encouraged to join the festivities as entries are still being accepted for this year’s parade.