West Hawaii News
PUC Nixes Bio-Diesel Deal a Second Time
Aina Koa Pono will continue plans for a biofuel plant in Ka`u despite a setback this week from the PUC.
Kokubun Retiring; Enright New Head of Hawaii Ag Department
Volcano resident Russell Kokubun, who is retiring as head of the Hawaii Department of Agriculture, will be replaced by Scott Enright, a resident of Hamakua.
Wave Debris Clean-Up Scheduled at Kona Park
High waves left rocks and other debris littering Kahaluu Beach Park, a popular snorkeling and swimming spot south of Kailua-Kona.
DLNR Citing More Illegal Vendors at State Parks
Officials said violations of the state’s rules dealing with commercial activities are particularly on the rise on Kauai.
UPDATE: Man Charged With Harassment by Stalking
A 55-year-old Kamuela man was charged with eight counts stemming from an incident in which he allegedly tried to stop his ex-girlfriend’s new boyfriend.
UPDATE: Man Charged in Burglary, Assault of Police Officer
The charges stem from the arrest of a 22-year-old homeless man who had been found asleep near a condominium that had been burglarized.
Gary Gill Named Interim State Health Director
Gill, who is the current deputy health director for environmental health, has served in a wide variety of elected and appointed posts.
Police Looking to ID Man at Scene of ATV Theft
The man whose image was observed by surveillance video in the area of a Paauilo feedlot from which the vehicle was stolen late last month.
Health Department Bans E-Cigarettes From Its Offices
The new policy, which goes into effect Jan. 1, prohibits the use of electronic smoking devices from all Department of Health properties.
$150 Million Project Will Save Energy at Airports
The project to install solar panels and replace power-hungry fixtures is expected to save $519 million in energy costs over the next two decades.
Firecrackers Go on Sale Thursday; HFD Offers Safety Tips
The Hawaii Fire Department offers safety tips and reminds the public about the law regarding the use of firecracker as well as safety tips.
Ban on Under-21 Tobacco Sales Begins in July
Mayor Billy Kenoi said he was endorsing the bill for the good of the community and especially children.
Police Release Dec. 20 List of Arrest Warrants
The Hawaii Police Department has released its weekly list of some of the individuals wanted on outstanding warrants.
Former Hilo Man Pleads Guilty to Wire Fraud
Justin Wade Smith, who stole more than $1 million by making false claims, faces up to 41 years in prison when he is sentenced in March.
High Surf Closes West Hawaii Beaches
County lifeguards reported surf up to 15 feet in height was occurring today at Hapuna Beach where waves were washing up to the vegetation line.
40 Million Credit Cards Stolen From Target
State consumer protection officials are offering tips for those who may have been the victim of identify theft.
CDC to Collect Health Data on Native Hawaiians
The federal study will be the first nationally to differentiate Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders from Asian categories.
Kealakehe a Finalist in Consumer Education Competition
The Kona high school is among four vying to represent Hawaii in the national LifeSmarts Competition to be held in Florida in May.
Mayor to Sign Bill Restricting Tobacco Sales
When it takes effect next year, the new law will prohibit sales of tobacco products, including electronic cigarettes, to those under 21.