West Hawai‘i News
Kahilu Theatre Recipient of State Grant
According to Sen. Malama Solomon, the $1.5 million in funding will allow the first major renovation in the facility’s 33-year existence.
Bill Targets School Superintendent Salary Cap
Supporters say the superintendent’s pay in Hawaii is the lowest in the nation for comparable districts, and raising the cap will help in future hiring.
Lawmakers Move Toward Election-Day Voter Registration
Those looking to register to vote on election day wouldn’t need proof of residency, but providing false information would be considered a felony.
Cannabis Minister Roger Christie Sentenced to Five Years
The term, to be served concurrently with two one-year sentences for failing to file a tax return, was the minimum sentence allowed under his plea agreement.
State Budget Includes Slight Increase in TAT for Counties
Various Big Island projects, including funds for a Puna regional library, are included in the budget that still needs a final vote and the governor’s signature.
Parker School Senior a Presidential Scholar Semifinalist
Lysha Matsunobu is one of six semifinalists from Hawaii, and the only one from the Big Island.
Pending Budget Contains $35M More for New Kona Courthouse
Combined with other funds, the state Judiciary is nearly halfway to the $90 million needed to consolidate court functions in West Hawaii.
Police Release April 25 List of Arrest Warrants
The Hawaii Police Department has released its weekly list of some of the individuals wanted on outstanding warrants.
Judge Rules Farmer ‘John Doe’ Can’t Remain Anonymous
The papaya farmer who is a plaintiff in a lawsuit challenging a county GMO registration requirement must reveal his identity to remain in the lawsuit.
Bill Mandates Native Hawaiian Expertise on Land Board
The new law would add a second requirement for members with specific backgrounds on the Board of Land and Natural Resources.
‘Revenge Porn’ Bill Passes Conference Committee
If approved by the full Legislature, the bill would make it a felony to transmit or post nude photos online in an attempt to humiliate someone.
Park Patrons Credited With Grabbing Alleged Kidnapper
Police said Keahi Sale, the object of an intense manhunt Saturday, was held by bystanders at Spencer Beach Park after the kidnapping victim called out for help.
Hawaii Supreme Court to Hold Session in Kona
The justices will give area high school students and the public an opportunity to hear attorneys argue the merits in a case involving government records.
Corporation Counsel Lincoln Ashida Headed to Law Firm
A former deputy prosecutor, the county’s current top civil attorney is wrapping up a record 26 straight years of legal service to the county.
Holualoa Resident, 54, Drowned Off North Kona Beach
The cause of death of Robert Gregory Osborne, who was found floating off Kua Bay, was confirmed by an autopsy.
Three Parker School Debaters Qualify for National Tournament
The trio earned the right to compete in Kansas in June by virtue of their second-place finishes at the state competition held earlier this month on Oahu.
Fellowship Named for Big Island Botanist Lani Stemmermann
The endowment by the president of the UH faculty union honors the Hilo-born Stemmermann, a champion of Hawaii plants, environments and ecology.
Police Seek Help Identifying Suspects in Mall Incident
Police are looking for a male and female allegedly involved in a shoplifting incident in which a store employee was injured.
Lawmakers Agree to Fund ‘Green’ Energy Program
The GEMS program aims to provide low- to moderate-income homeowners and renters with photovoltaic systems that would be paid for through electricity bills.
