LĪHU‘E – In recognition of its conservation efforts, the County of Kaua‘i was recently awarded a Conservation Innovation Award from the Hawai‘i Conservation Alliance (HCA). The County was among a host of others who were acknowledged by the Alliance. “A remarkable revolution has occurred in Hawai‘i over the past five years with increased acquisition of conservation land,” said HCA Executive Director Deanna Spooner, whose mission is to promote effective long-term management of Hawai‘i’s ecosystems. “This quantum leap in conservation was not achieved because of the efforts of just one organization,” Spooner said, “but rather by a massive shift in perception and participation by Hawai‘i’s citizens, political leaders and agencies.”
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Six amendments, or changes, proposed to the Kaua’i County Charter will appear on the 2008 General Election ballot on November 4. One of the amendments that you will vote on is: Should the Kaua‘i County Charter be amended to conform to state law requiring that all meetings of the County Council be open to the public unless allowed to be closed under the State Sunshine Law, Chapter 92, Hawai‘i Revised Statutes?
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LĪHU‘E – The Planning Department is reminding owners of single-family transient vacation rentals (TVRs) located outside of visitor destination areas that the deadline to submit applications for Non-Conforming Use Certificates (NCUs) is Wednesday, Oct. 15. No late applications will be accepted. A bill passed by the County Council earlier this year requires owners to register their TVRs or apply for a Non-Conforming Use Certificate. The certificate application is available at the Real Property Assessment office located next to the Motor Vehicle Registration office at the Līhu‘e Civic Center. This form is also downloadable from the county website, www.kauai.gov or www.kauaipropertytax.com on the forms and handouts page.
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LĪHU‘E – Since the Click It or Ticket campaign started in Hawai‘i six years ago, Kaua‘i has taken the No. 1 spot nearly every year. Yesterday, the results of the 2008 campaign were released showing Kaua‘i with a compliance rate of 98.76 percent, the highest in the state ever. Statewide, Hawai‘i ranked among the top in the nation with a 97 percent compliance rate. “Kudos go to Kaua‘i residents for achieving a milestone,” said Lt. Mark Scribner, head of the Kaua‘i Police Department’s Traffic Safety Unit. “We want to thank everyone for buckling up and doing their part to keep our roads safe.”
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LĪHU‘E – In an effort to improve management of Kaua‘i’s coastal resources, the County has partnered with the University of Hawai‘i Sea Grant Program. The County Council provided a $70,000 grant this fiscal year to the UH Sea Grant Program which helped to make it possible for coastal land use specialist James O’Connell to set up an office on Kaua‘i. O’Connell’s primary responsibility is to provide technical and outreach support to the county relative to the preservation of coastal resources and mitigation of coastal hazards.
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LĪHU‘E – After a lengthy search, the Planning Department recently hired three planners, bringing the total number of county planners to eight. “We’re pleased to have three new planners who are well-educated and come with high recommendations, said Planning Director Ian Costa. “I am optimistic that they will play major roles in moving a number of our projects forward.” Lisa Ellen Smith was hired as the Coastal Zone Management (CZM) planner and Leanora Kaiaokamalie and Marie Williams were brought on board as long range planners.
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KEKAHA – The Department of Public Works will be holding a series of meetings to discuss host community benefits that are available to compensate the Kekaha community for the upcoming expansion of the Kekaha Landfill. The first meeting is scheduled Monday, Oct. 6, 7 to 9 pm, at the Kekaha Neighborhood Center. One of the topics that will be covered at the meeting is the formation of a Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC), a volunteer group that will help develop a compensation package for the Kekaha community utilizing county funds.
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LĪHU‘E – The Kaua‘i Police Department Patrol Services Bureau has designated October as Equipment Maintenance Awareness Month. “Recently, there have been a significant number of vehicle and equipment violations,” said Captain Ale Quibilan. “We would like to remind the public about the importance of having their vehicles and equipment regularly inspected and maintained.” He noted that properly maintained vehicles and equipment helps to ensure the public’s safety and keep residents and visitors safe from harm.
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PO‘IPŪ – A 73-year-old male visitor from York, Pennsylvania was pronounced dead at Wilcox Hospital this morning. According to witnesses, the man had been snorkeling in front of the Lāwa‘i Beach Resort at around 9:38 this morning. A surfer in the area brought the man to shore after noticing that he was in distress. Moments later, the man collapsed.
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LĪHU‘E – In conjunction with the monthly testing of the State Civil Defense Emergency Alert System and outdoor warning sirens, the Kaua‘i Civil Air Patrol will be conducting their tsunami warning/evacuation routes around the island. The first joint monthly testing will take place today at 11:45 am. Volunteer pilots for the Civil Air Patrol will be flying fixed wing aircraft over Kaua‘i’s eastern beaches, utilizing flashing lights and making announcements over the plane’s public address system.
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WAIMEA – The Waimea swimming pool will be closed to the public on Saturday and Sunday to accommodate Mokihana Aquatics’ time trials for the upcoming Bill Smith Invitational Meet. Spectators are welcome to watch the event. The normal hours of operation at the Waimea facility are: Tuesday, 7 am to 3 pm, and Wednesday to Sunday, 9 am to 5 pm. The pool is closed on Mondays and holidays.
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KEKAHA – To meet the growing need for increased public transportation on the westside on weekdays, county officials are adding two new bus routes effective Oct. 1. “The first two buses departing Kekaha at 5:27 and 6:15 am on weekdays are at capacity,” said Janine Rapozo, executive on transportation. “So we’ve added another early morning route that leaves Kekaha at 5:57 am, which should provide relief to those who have had to stand and also add capacity for new riders.” The afternoon routes heading out to the westside have had high ridership, too, noted Rapozo, explaining that the 3:35 and 4:35 pm route 200 buses that leave Wal-Mart bound for Kekaha are also at capacity. “To fill this demand, we’re adding a 4:05 pm route 200 bus,” Rapozo said.
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WAILUA – Kaua‘i police have closed portions of Kula, Pua and Hale‘ilio roads in Wailua Houselots due to a house fire at 396 Pua Rd. The fire reportedly began at around 10:10 this morning. As of this writing, fire fighters are still at the scene putting out the fire.
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WAILUA – A Wailua Houselots home was completely destroyed by fire this morning.
The two occupants of the three-bedroom home located at 396 Pua Rd. were taken to Wilcox Hospital where they were treated for smoke inhalation. Fire officials estimate damages to the 1,000 sq. ft. single wall, redwood home, attached carport and contents, including a passenger vehicle and a small pick-up truck, to be about $400,000. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
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LĪHU‘E – Sponsored by the county’s Agency on Elderly Affairs and the state Department of Health, a series of workshops entitled “Ke Ala Pono: Healthy Living” is being offered for seniors 60 and older with chronic health conditions. The series begins on Oct. 1 and will be held every Wednesday for six weeks at the Līhu‘e Civic Center, Pi‘ikoi Building, from 9 to 11:30 am.
Registration is limited to 16 participants and their caregivers. Participants will be introduced to practical skills for healthy living while managing their ongoing health condition.
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ANAHOLA – Effective today, The Kaua‘i Bus has resumed its two regular Anahola stops along Kūhi‘ō Highway. The Anahola bus stops had been temporarily relocated to Kalalea and Kukuihale roads for about a month while state highway improvement projects were taking place in the area.
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LĪHU‘E – The Kaua‘i Police Department is asking for the public’s help with finding a missing person. According to police, Tara Andrea Noel, age 28, flew to Kaua‘i from the Big Island on Sept. 20. She was dropped off at the Hanalei pier that afternoon. She was reported missing yesterday when her personal belongings were found at Hanakāpī'ai Beach and turned in to the police department.   Noel is five feet six inches tall and weighs about 125 pounds. She has brown eyes and brown hair. Noel is of Caucasian descent and has a medium complexion and a medium build. She has a tiny birthmark on the right side of her neck.

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LĪHU‘E – Starting next month, seniors 60 and older will have the opportunity to participate in the EnhanceFitness program at the Līhu‘e and Kīlauea neighborhood centers. “EnhanceFitness is a low impact, strength training program that focuses on balance, strength, endurance, and flexibility. It’s designed for both active and frail older adults,” said Naomi Sugihara, program specialist with the Agency on Elderly Affairs.
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PO‘IPŪ – Ocean Safety officials report that box jellyfish have been seen this morning along the shore fronting the Marriott’s Wai‘ohai Beach Club. Beachgoers are advised to avoid the area. Warning signs are posted.
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LĪHU‘E -- Department of Water officials announced that a section of Pua Loke St., between Haleko Rd. and Kaumuali‘i Highway, will be closed Friday, from 8 am to 2 pm. Only local traffic for businesses in the area will be allowed. The road will be closed because the water department will be hosting its 5th annual Make a Splash Water Festival at the Pua Loke Arboretum for fifth grade students from around the island. The Department of Water will accept water bill payments throughout the day, but the water resources and planning division will not be processing water permits until after the event.
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KĪLAUEA – The public is invited to provide input on three options for the development of a 75-acre agricultural park in Kīlauea. The alternatives were devised by the county’s consultant, Kimura International, following extensive discussions with Kīlauea residents, elected officials, farmers and others throughout the island. To review the alternatives, go to the county’s website, www.kauai.gov/OED. Comments will be accepted via email, btokioka@kauai.gov, fax, 808-241-6399, or in-person at the Office of Economic Development located at the Līhu‘e Civic Center, Mo‘ikeha Building, Suite 200. The deadline to submit comments on the Kīlauea ag park options is Friday, Oct. 24. Comments received will be used as the basis for the development of a preferred alternative for the park.
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KĪLAUEA – Kauai police have closed a portion of Kīlauea Road between Kīlauea and Keneke roads in the vicinity of Kong Long Store due to a stand-off in the area. As a precautionary measure, residents in the area are urged to secure their residences. Students attending Kauai Christian Academy should contact their administrator for more information. Kīlauea Lighthouse is temporarily closed due to the situation. Kīlauea Elementary and Kula schools are not impacted by this situation. Parents should contact school officials for more information.
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KĪLAUEA – Kaua‘i police arrested and charged a 27-year-old Kīlauea man this morning following a 5-hour stand-off with police at his residence. Kaleo Lovell Martin was charged with nine counts first degree terroristic threatening, one count family abuse, two counts first degree criminal property damage, one count second degree criminal property damage and one count unauthorized entry into a motor vehicle. Martin is being held at police cellblock. His bail has not yet been determined. Police dispatch received a call about a domestic dispute happening at 4149 Kīlauea Rd. at around 4:42 this morning. Martin left the scene before police arrived, but returned at around 5:15 am. Shortly after his return, Martin commandeered a police vehicle in the front yard reportedly while brandishing a weapon. He remained in the vehicle for hours, refusing to turn the weapon over to police. At around 10:28 am, Martin got out of the vehicle and approached police officers. He was then subdued by a taser and taken into police custody.
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KĪLAUEA – A 27-year-old Kīlauea man is in police custody following a 5-hour stand-off with police at a Kilauea residence. When the man approached police officers at around 10:28 am, he was subdued by a taser. The man was then taken into police custody. Police are transporting the suspect to Wilcox Hospital to be checked out, and will then take him to police cellblock for processing. Police dispatch received a call about a domestic dispute happening at 4149 Kīlauea Rd. at around 5:15 am. Police responded and found a 27-year-old Kīlauea man brandishing a weapon at the Kīlauea residence. The man refused to relinquish his weapon to police. Police closed a portion of Kīlauea Road between Titcomb and Keneke roads. As a precautionary measure, residents in the immediate area were evacuated.
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LĪHU‘E – Starting Monday, the Hawai‘i National Guard’s 93rd Civil Support Team (CST) will be conducting its annual week-long, anti-terrorism training on Kaua‘i. On Thursday, a portion of Nāwiliwili Harbor and Vidinha Stadium parking lot and access road will be used for the CST exercises and will be closed to the general public. Officials are asking for the public’s cooperation by staying away from these areas so participants can conduct the exercises without interruptions.
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KĪLAUEA – A fresh contingent of rescue personnel set out at around 8 this morning to search for Robert Nakashima, Sr., an 80-year-old Kīlauea fisherman who has been missing since Monday. Air-1 is conducting “close-in” aerial searches, while Rescue-3 is tasked with shoreline and water searches.
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KĪLAUEA – After utilizing much of its resources for nearly three days, the Kaua‘i Fire Department has suspended its search for Robert Nakashima, Sr., an 80-year-old Kīlauea fisherman who has been missing since Monday. “I want to thank everyone who assisted in the search for Mr. Nakashima including – the Coast Guard, Civil Air Patrol, all of our fire department personnel as well as friends and family,” said Kaua‘i Fire Chief Robert Westerman, noting that the search was suspended at 11:30 am today.
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KĪLAUEA – Rescue personnel with the Kaua‘i Fire Department resumed their search this morning for Robert Nakashima Sr., an 80-year-old Kīlauea fisherman who has been missing since Monday. Recalled fire fighters, Rescue-3, Zodiac-1, and lifeguards on jet skis began shoreline and water searches along the coast of Kīlauea at around 8:45 this morning.
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KĪLAUEA – At around 4 this afternoon, the Civil Air Patrol will launch a fixed-wing aircraft and join in the search for Robert Nakashima Sr., an 80-year-old Kīlauea fisherman who has been missing since Monday. Earlier this afternoon, divers began snorkeling along the coast of Kīlauea as part of an expanded search. Fire fighters, Rescue-3, Zodiac-1, and lifeguards on jet skis have been conducting shoreline and water searches since around 8:45 this morning. Friends and family of local fisherman have also been assisting in the search. Fire officials said they plan to continue searching for Nakashima until dusk and will resume their search tomorrow morning.
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KĪLAUEA – A coordinated search by rescue personnel for an 80-year-old Kīlauea man missing since yesterday began early this morning. The Coast Guard started its aerial and water search for Robert Nakashima, Sr. at around 4 am, while Air-1 and rescue specialists from the Līhu‘e fire station began searching from the air at first light. The rescue specialists found Nakashima’s fishing bag at Makapili Pt. near Secret Beach in Kīlauea. Zodiac-1 was launched for shoreline and water searches at around 8:30 am.
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KĪLAUEA – Hanalei fire fighters, Rescue-3, Zodiac-1, as well lifeguards on jet skis are continuing their search for local fisherman Robert Nakashima Sr. along the coast of Kīlauea this afternoon. They are being assisted by friends and relatives of Nakashima who are conducting shoreline searches in the area. Fire officials said their efforts are hampered by poor visibility and strong currents, but they plan to continue the search until dusk. At that time, they will determine what their plan of action will be for tomorrow.
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KALAPAKI – A 28-year-old man remains at Wilcox Hospital this morning after falling from a cliff yesterday afternoon at Ulu‘a Pt. located just outside of Nāwiliwili Harbor. His current condition is not known. Jered Melandez was fishing with friends at around 3:35 pm when he slipped and fell about 25 ft. onto rocks near the water’s edge and sustained serious injuries. Rescue 3 from the Lihue fire station responded on Radon 1, a 24-ft. rescue boat, including: Captain Albert Kaui; apparatus operator Alan Lizama; and rescue specialists Ehren Edwards and Frank Subee.
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LĪHU‘E – In celebration of September being Women’s Health Month, the Committee on the Status of Women will host a free screening of Acting our Age: a film about women growing with age, along with a mini-health fair. The event will be held Thursday, Sept. 18, 5:30 to 7:30 pm, at the Līhu‘e Civic Center, Pi‘ikoi Building. Other activities at the fair include a presentation focusing on this year’s theme, Malama I Kou Kino, to nurture and care for your body, by Rev. Mama Ipo Kahaunaele-Ferreira and information tables manned by the American Cancer Society, American Heart Association, Bone & Joint Center and Ho‘ola Lahui Hawai‘i. Light, healthy refreshments will be served at the event.
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LĪHU‘E – Kaua‘i’s teachers are invited to participate in a two-day science workshop scheduled next week. Flying in from the mainland to conduct the workshop are Rick Lee, a scientist from General Atomics, a high-tech company based in San Diego, and Alex Nagy, an engineer from the Princeton University Plasma Physics Laboratory. Lee and Nagy will also be on-island to host the 5th annual General Atomics Science Show for fourth, sixth and eighth grade students. The teachers’ workshop will be held on Thursday, Sept. 18, 3:30 to 5:30 pm, and Saturday, Sept. 20, 8:30 am to 12:30 pm, at the Kaua‘i War Memorial Convention Hall.
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KĪLAUEA – The public is invited to attend a meeting to discuss proposed options for the 75-acre agricultural park in Kīlauea. The alternatives have been developed by the county’s consultant, Kimura International, after extensive discussions with members of the Kīlauea community, elected officials, farmers and others throughout the island. The meeting will be held in Kīlauea on Wednesday, Sept. 17, 2 to 3:30 pm, at the Malama Kaua‘i conference room (formerly the Guava Kai gift shop), located at 4900 Ku‘awa Road. Kimura International, an O‘ahu-based firm, was hired by the county earlier this year to work with stakeholders to develop a master plan for the 75-acre agricultural park. The planning process is being coordinated by the Office of Economic Development.
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MAKAWELI – The Kaua‘i Police Department is asking for the public’s help with information regarding a burglary that occurred at the Makaweli Post Office over the weekend. Someone apparently broke into the post office and stole a safe either late Friday night or early Saturday morning. An investigation of the burglary is being conducted by KPD in conjunction with the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for any information leading to the arrest and conviction of the suspect(s).
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LĪHU‘E – In recognition of September being National Preparedness Month, the Kaua‘i Fire Department has scheduled a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) quarterly meeting this Thursday. The meeting will be held from 5:30 to 8:30 pm at the Wilcox Elementary School cafeteria. An update on the Citizens Corps and CERT national programs will be given, followed by a presentation by Sgt. Ezra Kanoho on the county’s Neighborhood Watch program. Additionally, CERT emergency preparedness plans will also be discussed. All CERT graduates are encouraged to attend the quarterly meeting.
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KOKE‘E – A 70-year-old Kekaha man is in stable condition at The Queen’s Medical Center after falling on the Kukui Trail in Koke‘e last Friday night. The man and two friends were riding mules when they left the trailhead at around 10 pm and set off on a hunting expedition. About an hour later, the Kekaha man fell off his mule and hit his head on a rock, sustaining critical injuries. One of his friends went to his aid and stayed by his side; while the other man road back on the trail until he was able to get cell phone reception. He then called police dispatch at around 11:45 pm and reported the incident. Four fire fighters from the Waimea station responded to the call including: Captain Jason Ornellas; Apparatus Operator Kalani Abreu; and firefighters Nicholas Hill and Imai Karrati.
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KEĀLIA – Six gravesites at St. Catherine’s cemetery in Keālia were damaged early Saturday morning when a vehicle crashed into the cemetery. According to a preliminary report, Dorotes Lagunes, age 36, of Wailua Houselots was northbound in a Nissan Sentra on Kūhi‘ō Highway at around 4:45 am when he fell asleep and crossed the centerline. His vehicle launched into the air, going over a stone wall and crashing into the cemetery. Lagunes, the only occupant in the vehicle, was not injured in the accident.
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PRINCEVILLE – A 27-year-old Princeville man is in stable condition in the intensive care unit at The Queen’s Medical Center from injuries sustained in an accident Saturday night. Michael Sears was riding a moped heading east on Kahaku Rd. in Princeville at around 9:55 pm when he lost control and fell onto the roadway striking his head. Sears sustained serious injuries. He was treated at the scene and then taken to Wilcox Hospital for further treatment. Later that night he was airlifted to The Queen’s Medical Center. Sears was not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident.
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LĪHU‘E – The public is invited to take part in the county’s Second annual Health & Wellness Fair scheduled Friday, 10 am to 2 pm, at the Līhu‘e Civic Center, in the breezeway between the Mo‘ikeha and Pi‘ikoi buildings. The fair is being held in recognition of September being National Alcohol & Drug Recovery Month. This year’s theme is Join the Voices of Recovery – Real People, Real Recovery, which focuses on spreading the word that addiction is a medical illness, treatment is effective and recovery is possible. Information on a wide variety of health concerns will be available at the fair including: drug prevention, addiction, enforcement and treatment; recovery assistance; healthy lifestyles; health screenings and more.
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LĪHU‘E – The Kaua‘i Police Department is asking for the public’s help with finding a missing person. According to police, 22-year-old Jesse Glenn Pinegar was reported missing on April 13. Pinegar flew to Hawai‘i from Utah for a vacation earlier this year. He is believed to be somewhere on the north shore, possible in Kalalau Valley or working on a farm. Pinegar is six feet one inch tall and weighs about 185 pounds. He has brown eyes and brown hair. Pinegar is of Caucasian descent and has a light complexion and a medium build.
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LĪHU‘E – The Department of Public Works is continuing its series of public information meetings on landfill issues. The meetings are scheduled 7 to 9 pm at different locations around the island:
 Tuesday, Sept. 16 – Kapa‘a Middle School
 Thursday, Sept. 18 – Kōloa Neighborhood Center
 Monday, Sept. 22 – Kalāheo Neighborhood Center
 Tuesday, Sept. 23 – Līhu‘e Neighborhood Center
 Tuesday, Sept. 30 – Kīlauea Neighborhood Center
Among the topics that will be covered at the meetings are the following: Kekaha Landfill lateral expansion; siting of a new landfill; design requirements for a modern landfill; mitigation measures; host community compensation; and community concerns regarding landfills.
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WAILUA -- The Department of Water will be performing maintenance work on a water valve at the intersection of Kūhi‘ō Highway and North Leho Drive from 9 pm tomorrow night through 4 am Friday. While the work is being done, one northbound lane of Kūhi‘ō Highway between mile marker five and North Leho Drive will be closed. Motorists leaving the Aloha Beach Resort or Lydgate Beach Park and heading south tomorrow night should use South Leho Drive to access Kūhi‘ō Highway.

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LĪHU‘E – A 22-year-old Princeville man remains in critical condition at The Queen’s Medical Center due to injuries sustained in an incident that happened on Kaua‘i. Christopher Owens was reportedly assaulted near the campgrounds at 'Anini Beach Park at around 9:45 pm on Aug. 21. He was taken to Wilcox Hospital for treatment that night, and then airlifted to The Queen’s Medical Center early Friday morning.
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LĪHU‘E – The Kaua‘i Police Department Patrol Services Bureau has designated September as Noise Prohibition Awareness Month. By informing the public about the various types of traffic safety laws, the Patrol Services Bureau aims to protect the welfare of the community, said Captain Ale Quibilan. “The role of the police department is to keep our residents and visitors safe from harm,” said Quibilan. “It is our duty to enforce all laws including those relating to noise prohibition when noise produced from human activities jeopardizes the well-being and tranquility of our community.” Throughout the month of September, patrol officers will be monitoring compliance with state and local noise prohibition laws, and will issue citations to anyone who violates these laws.
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HANALEI – A blessing was held on Wednesday to officially mark the reopening of the Hanalei sub-station. The 30-year-old facility, which serves as the Kaua‘i Police Department’s north shore station as well as the Hanalei fire station, had been closed for four months for renovation. During the closure, KPD’s staff was temporarily housed in a trailer on the property, while the Hanalei fire fighters utilized Princeville Airport through a special arrangement with Princeville Mauka LLC. Lt. Michael Contrades, Hanalei district commander, is pleased to be back at the newly refurbished facility.
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ANAHOLA – County officials announced that the 'Aliomanu Rd. project in Anahola is scheduled to begin next week. The project is a temporary measure that involves using heavy equipment to fill and place sand bags along the roadway to protect the eroded shoreline. The design and permitting phase for permanent erosion control is currently underway.
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LĪHU‘E – In observance of Labor Day, County of Kaua‘i offices will be closed Monday, along with all refuse transfer stations, the Kekaha Landfill, Puhi Metals Recycling Center and the Kaua‘i Resource Center. Residential refuse pick-up will continue as scheduled. The Kaua‘i Bus will be operating on a modified schedule on Labor Day as well as on all other county holidays, with the exception of Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. Normal business hours for county offices and services will resume Tuesday, Sept. 2.
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WAILUA – The Second annual Mayor’s Challenge Cup Tournament will be held at the Wailua Golf Course on Saturday, 11 am, and Sunday, 7:30 am. The golf event is a team competition that’s played over 36 holes and is based on individual stroke play and individual match play, with one team point awarded for each flight on both days of the competition. Participants include players representing the County of Kaua‘i and City and County of Honolulu who don’t usually compete in golf tournaments.
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HĀ‘ENA – Kē'ē Beach is closed this afternoon due to a shark sighting in the area and will remain closed at least until tomorrow morning. According to Ocean Safety officials, a six- to seven-ft. Black Tip shark was spotted in the lagoon this afternoon. No swimming allowed signs are posted in the area along with warnings of the shark sighting.
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NUKOLI'I – A 29-year-old Līhu‘e woman remains at Wilcox Hospital and her six-month old daughter is at The Queen’s Medical Center after surviving a fatal crash yesterday evening on Kūhi‘ō Highway in the vicinity of the Hilton Kaua‘i Beach Resort. Their current condition is unknown. Marry Sunada and her baby were passengers in a car driven by Sunada’s 32-year-old husband Colin who died in the crash. The driver of the other vehicle 44-year-old Benhur Nono was taken to Wilcox Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. There were no passengers in Nono’s vehicle. According to a preliminary report, Nono was northbound on Kūhi‘ō Highway at around 4:42 pm when he crossed the centerline and struck the Sunadas’ vehicle head-on. Kūhi‘ō Highway was closed following the accident.
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LĪHU‘E – Kaua‘i police have opened the bypass road in Wailua to passenger vehicles travelling southbound on the roadway. No commercial vehicles, i.e. buses and trucks, are allowed to pass. Kūhi‘ō Highway in the vicinity of Marine Camp and the Hilton Kaua‘i Beach Resort in Wailua is closed in both directions due to a major traffic accident. Motorists are urged to avoid the area.
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NUKOLI'I – A head-on collision on Kūhi‘ō Highway in the vicinity of the Hilton Kaua‘i Beach Resort resulted in the deaths of two men this evening. A 32-year-old Līhu‘e man died at the scene and a 42-year-old Kapa‘a man died at Wilcox Hospital. The wife of the Līhu‘e man and his six-month-old child are in critical condition, and as of this writing, they are being prepared for an airlift to The Queens Medical Center. There were no passengers in the vehicle driven by the Kapa‘a man.
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LĪHU‘E – A male driver believed to be in his early 20’s sustained minor injuries in a one-car crash in Līhu‘e tonight. He declined medical treatment. The man was driving on Kapule Highway near the entrance to Kaua‘i Lagoons at around 8:30 tonight when the vehicle he was driving flipped over and landed on its roof.
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LĪHU‘E – Kūhi‘ō Highway in the vicinity of Marine Camp and the Hilton Kaua‘i Beach Resort in Wailua is closed in both directions due to a major traffic accident. Motorists are urged to avoid the area.
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LĪHU‘E – One of the northbound lanes of Kūhi‘ō Highway in the vicinity of the Hilton Kaua‘i Beach Resort has been reopened. Traffic is moving slowly, however, due to motorists slowing down and checking out the accident scene. The bypass road in the area has just been closed because of insufficient lighting along the roadway. Police officials anticipate that Kūhi‘ō Highway will be completely open by about 8:15 pm.
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NUKOLI'I – Kūhi‘ō Highway in the vicinity of the Hilton Kaua‘i Beach Resort is now completely open. The roadway had been closed since about 5:15 pm due to a major traffic accident that resulted in two fatalities.
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PO‘IPŪ – Ocean Safety officials report that a large number of boxed jellyfish have been seen along the south shore, between the Wai‘ohai Hotel and Spouting Horn. Beachgoers are advised to avoid this area. For more information about ocean safety, please ask a county lifeguard or log onto www.kauaiexplorer.com.
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HANALEI – Hanalei Bay is closed today due to a shark sighting in the area and will remain closed at least until tomorrow morning. Beachgoers are advised to stay out of the bay. Signs are posted in the area warning of the shark sighting. For information about ocean safety, please ask a county lifeguard or log onto www.kauaiexplorer.com.
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LĪHU‘E – County officials announced today that Bernard Carvalho, director of Parks and Recreation, has requested a leave of absence from his position pending the outcome of the upcoming elections. Carvalho will step aside effective Monday, Aug. 25, to focus on his mayoral campaign. Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation Kylan Dela Cruz will assume his responsibilities while Carvalho is on leave.
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LĪHU‘E – Eric Honma, director of the county’s Department of Liquor Control, was recently elected president of the National Conference of State Liquor Administrators (NCSLA). Membership of NCLA is comprised of state administrators and liquor commissioners from all 50 states. Their mission is to administer the Federal Alcohol Administration Act and work towards the adoption of uniform laws throughout the country. Honma’s selection was made last month at the NCSLA’s 74th annual Conference held in Chicago with approximately 400 administrators, liquor commissioners and guests in attendance. “We are very proud of Eric being recognized for his diligent and dedicated work in advancing the mission of the NCSLA,” said Pauline Ventura, chair of the Kaua‘i County Liquor Commission. “I think it’s also a reflection of the high standard and quality of work performed by Eric and his staff.”
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ANAHOLA – Due to state highway improvement projects taking place in Anahola, two bus stops in the area along Kūhi‘ō Highway will be moved to interior roads effective tomorrow. Route 400 will be relocated to Kalalea Rd. and Route 500 will be relocated to Kukuihale Rd. Signs are in place indicating the location of the temporary bus stops.
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LĪHU‘E – The Kaua‘i Police Department is asking for the public’s help with finding a teen runaway. According to police, 15-year-old Kelsey Alao was reported missing on July 11. Alao is five feet one inch tall and weighs about 98 pounds. She has brown eyes and brown hair. Alao is of Hawaiian descent and has a tan complexion and a thin build.
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LĪHU‘E – Callers are advised that voice mail in two county buildings – Moikeha and Pi‘ikoi -- is currently not working. Affected offices include: Anti-Drug; Boards and Commissions; Building; Community Response; County Attorney; Economic Development; Engineering; Finance – administration and accounting; Fire Department headquarters; Information Technology; Liquor Control; Mayor’s office; Parks and Recreation; Personnel Services; Public Information; Recycling; Roads; and Solid Waste. Repair work is being done on the system. Notice will be sent to the media when voice mail is restored.
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LĪHU‘E – County officials announced that several neighborhood centers and county swimming pools will have limited hours tomorrow through Friday. However, all regular and previously scheduled activities at these facilities will continue. Camping permits and reservations for use of county facilities can be arranged at the Kalāheo and Kapa‘a neighborhood centers as well as the Līhu‘e Civic Center – Pi‘ikoi Building during normal business hours, 7:45 am to 4:30 pm. The Kapa‘a swimming pool will be closed on Thursday and Friday for previously scheduled maintenance work. The Waimea swimming pool will close at noon on Friday instead of its regular 4:30 pm closing time.
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LĪHU‘E – Hawaiian Telcom will be performing cable installation in its underground facilities on Haleko Rd., from 8 pm Thursday, Aug. 21, to 5 am the following day. While the work is being done, only one-way traffic from Rice St. to Pua Loke St. will be allowed. Northbound traffic on Haleko Rd. heading towards Rice St. will be detoured to Kaumuali‘i Highway via Hala Rd. near the Department of Water.
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Līhu‘e - Dreamworks’ movie, "Tropic Thunder" starring Ben Stiller, Jack Black and Robert Downey Jr. will make its Kaua`i premiere on Friday, August 15 at Kukui Grove 4 Cinemas in Līhu‘e. read more ...

Līhu‘e - The Kaua‘i Police Department is asking for the public's help with finding 15 year old Jacob Poepoe who was reported missing on July 7, 2008. He is six feet tall, weighs about 150 pounds, brown eyes, black hair, Hawiian descent, tan complexion, small build. He has a tattoo on his back "POEPOE" across the shoulder. Anyone with information about Poepoe is urged to Call Dispatch, 241-1711, KPD Investigative Service Bureau, 241-1696, or Crime Stoppers, 241-1887. read more ...

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LĪHU‘E – After a successful pilot program, the Department of Public Works recently began phasing in biodiesel at its Hanapēpē and Līhu‘e baseyards. “We’re starting with two fuel storage tanks and plan to eventually expand to other tanks located at our Kapa‘a and Hanalei baseyards,” said Dwayne Adachi, automotive equipment superintendent. “There are a number of benefits to using biodiesel,” said County Engineer Donald Fujimoto. “First of all, it’s much better for the environment because it doesn’t produce high emissions like traditional fuels. Secondly, it reduces our dependence on fossil fuels. And at the present time, the cost of biodiesel is less than diesel fuel.”
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KŌLOA – A traffic accident that occurred yesterday morning at the junction of Kaumuali‘i Hwy and Maluhia Rd. resulted in a traffic jam, but no one was seriously injured. Two juveniles involved in the accident were taken to Wilcox Hospital and were treated for minor injuries. They were released yesterday. According to a police report, a truck was turning left onto Maluhia Rd. from the turn lane of Kaumuali‘i Hwy at around 6:20 am when it collided with a van travelling east on Kaumuali‘i Hwy. The van spun out and came to a stop facing southwest within the eastbound lane of Kaumuali‘i Hwy, while the truck ended up on the median facing southeast.
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