West Hawai‘i News
Zephyr Insurance to open claim assistance center on Big Island
Policyholders are encouraged to reserve a time in advance; walk-ins will be assisted on a first-come, first-served basis as time permits.
Young Brothers plans modified cargo acceptance, availability at Port of Kawaihae
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.
Arkansas man charged with sexual assault for 2 incidents in West Hawai’i
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.
Police charge Kona woman in connection with reported robbery at knifepoint
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.
Hawaiʻi County to host free household hazardous waste collection events
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.
Konawaena High campus ready to welcome students back for new school year
“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.
Top bartenders to compete during 4th annual Kuleana Rum Works Cocktail Classic
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.
Kona man arrested, charged with harassment, resisting arrest after trying to provoke fight
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.
Hawaiʻi congressional delegation urge approval for disaster declaration request
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.
State approves expansion of coconut rhinoceros beetle-infested area in West Hawaiʻi
The infested area now includes the area between Henry Street, Palani Road and Queen Kaʻahumanu Highway in Kailua-Kona.
Salvation Army serves breakfast to firefighters who were battling Kawaihae Road fire
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.
Lane closures scheduled through July 31 on several roadways around Big Island
Closures are planned for weekdays, unless otherwise noted; All projects are weather permitting and lane closure schedules can change with little to no notice.
Kawaihae Village, Spencer Beach Park evacuated because of South Kohala wildfire
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.’
UPDATE: Mandatory evacuation ordered for residents of Kawaihae Village Subdivision because of wildland fire
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.
Hurricane Fausto Saturday update: Risk on land of sustained tropical force winds should be low
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.
Walmart hosts annual summer wellness event at stores statewide just in time before new school year
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.
Top 10 things to do on Big Island for July 24-30: ‘Peace by Piece,’ Summer Jam, Experience Volcano and more
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!
Overnight road closure scheduled for utility work in North Kona
Hawaiian Electric crews will replace a utility pole the night of July 23-24, resulting in the closure of Māmalahoa Highway, just north of Kūāhewa Road.
Coffee with a Cop set for Waikōloa Wednesday morning
Community members are invited to have conversations and build trust with South Kohala police officers at the Starbucks in Queen’s Marketplace.
Investment firm pays $23 million to become outright owner of Kailua-Kona hotel
Nine Brains, headquartered in Santa Monica, Calif., acquired full fee-simple ownership of Pacific 19 Kona hotel — formerly Kona Seaside Hotel — 4 years after it purchased the ground lease for the property.
