West Hawai‘i News

It’s a smorgasbord of fun planned for everyone at events and activities around the island; unfortunately, another possible tropical cyclone could be headed our way, becoming the second most unwanted guest to the islands as early as this weekend.

Now-17-year-old Naiomi Michael, who previously was reported as a runaway, was found July 10 in Pāhoa.

Hawaiʻi Technology Academy solidifies its presence in the Kona community with the $7.4 million purchase of the West Hawaiʻi Today building, promising to expand its innovative educational programs by 2028.

Policyholders are encouraged to reserve a time in advance; walk-ins will be assisted on a first-come, first-served basis as time permits.

Several changes are scheduled throughout August at the West Hawai‘i port, beginning this week, as the shipping company works ‘to keep the marine highway running smoothly for all communities’ it serves.

64-year-old Timothy Efird of Hot Springs, Ark., is charged with first-degree and second-degree sexual assault in connection with two separate incidents reportedly involving the same woman.

33-year-old Krystal Hernandez is charged with first-degree robbery and second-degree promoting a detrimental drug following an incident Aug. 7 near the 75-5500 block of Kuakini Highway in Kailua-Kona.

Hawai‘i County Department of Environmental Management hosts these regular collection events at no charge to the public, allowing households to conveniently dispose of acceptable waste in a manner that protects public health and the environment.

“We have a safe, healthy place that we get to welcome everybody back to, and we have a new place, so it’s going to make new memories … ,” said the West Hawai‘i school’s Principal Ami Akeo, speaking about the campus’ state following repairs after damage caused by the March kona low storms.

The friendly competition’s goal is to bring the cocktail community together and showcase what island bartenders can do while creating a space where they can show off their creativity and all-around professionalism.

44-year-old Matthew Larrua made his initial court appearance July 29 in Kona District Court; the charges stem from an incident the afternoon of July 28 at a business on Aliʻi Drive in Kailua-Kona.

The congressional delegation has asked President Donald Trump to expedite Gov. Josh Green’s request for a presidential disaster declaration following a 6.0 earthquake on Hawaiʻi Island.

The infested area now includes the area between Henry Street, Palani Road and Queen Kaʻahumanu Highway in Kailua-Kona.

The Hawai‘i County Emergency Disaster Services team from the Honoka‘a Corps delivered the morning meal to about 60 firefighters working to bring the wildfire in South Kohala under control.

Closures are planned for weekdays, unless otherwise noted; All projects are weather permitting and lane closure schedules can change with little to no notice.

Hawai‘i County Mayor Kimo Alameda reported in a late night July 25 video update on social media that more than 500 acres had burned south of Kawaihae Road and emergency personnel would continue fighting the blaze ‘probably all night.’

Hawai‘i County reports about 50 residences near the junction of Kawaihae Road and Queen Kaʻahumanu Highway are covered by the evacuation order; the fire has burned about 500 acres as of about 9 p.m.

Forecaster confidence in Fausto’s track is increasing that strongest winds and heaviest rainfall will remain offshore to the north of the Hawaiian Islands; however, everyone still needs to continue watching the storm’s progress.

Customers can receive a variety of health screenings, connect with Walmart pharmacists and learn more about resources that support overall wellness; walk-ins are welcome and no registration is required for the July 25 event at Hilo and Kailua-Kona Walmart stores.

There’s a lot of experiences available for all ages to enjoy during the next week and beyond right here on the Big Island. Check out this week’s top 10 things to do now!