Home Blog Page 3

Helicopter crashes near Waipio Valley Thursday (Feb 21)

Baron
-
0
Helicopter crashes near Waipio Valley Thursday (Feb 21)

By Hawaii 24/7 Staff

Fire/rescue crews responded to a 7:05 a.m. alarm Thursday (Feb 21) to 48-5101 Honokaa-Waipio Road (Route 240) for a helicopter crash near Waipio Valley.

According to fire dispatch, the helicopter experienced engine failure and crashed about 200 yards south of Honokaa-Waipio Road (Route 240) in an open field. Firefighters found the 39-year-old pilot at the scene walking around the site after he had gotten out of the aircraft on his own. The man was treated and transported to North Hawaii Community Hospital via a medic unit in serious condition.

There were no other injuries reported and there were no disruptions to traffic. The National Transportation Service Board (NTSB) will be investigating the crash.

AARP 2019 Community Challenge Grant Program is open for applications

Baron
-
0
AARP 2019 Community Challenge Grant Program is open for applications

MEDIA RELEASE

AARP is now accepting applications for the 2019 Community Challenge grant program to fund “quick-action” projects that spark change in local communities. The grant program, which is now in its third year, is part of AARP’s nationwide Livable Communities initiative, which aims to make communities great places to live for everyone.

The Community Challenge is open to 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4) and 501(c)(6) nonprofits and government entities. Other types of organizations will be considered on a case-by-case basis.  Grants can range from several hundred dollars for small, short-term activities to several thousand for larger projects. The program will accept applications in the following categories for 2019:

  • Demonstrate the tangible value of “Smart Cities.” This new category in 2019 will encourage communities to develop and implement innovative programs that engage residents in accessing, understanding, and using data to increase quality of life for all.  The intention with this category is to encourage applicants to demonstrate new ways to engage in decision-making about housing, transportation, economic development, placemaking, infrastructure, or other community aspect
  • Deliver a range of transportation and connectivity options in the community through permanent or temporary solutions that increase walkability, bikeability, wayfinding, access to transportation options and roadway improvements
  • Create vibrant public places in the community through permanent or temporary solutions that activate open spaces,  improve parks and improve access to amenities
  • Support the availability of a range of housing in the community through permanent or temporary solutions that increase accessible and affordable housing options
  • Other innovative projects to improve the community

“Last year, the Community Challenge Grant funded the Trust for Public Land’s Lei of Parks Family Day, a fun activity which linked Ala Moana, Kewalo Basin and Kaakako parks and highlighted the potential to create bike and pedestrian paths that will link parks across Oahu’s South Shore,” said Barbara Kim Stanton, the AARP Hawai‘i State Director. “We also started the Biki Social Rides to give free Biki bike ride workshops aimed at getting people 50 and older to try bicycle ride share. These grants are tremendous opportunities to highlight the work of local nonprofit groups and give them a chance to make a dream project to help the community become a reality.”

Since 2017, AARP has awarded 217 grants through the Community Challenge to nonprofit organizations and government entities representing every state and U.S. territories. Please visit http://bit.ly/2018ChallengeWinners to see some of the 2018 winners in action, helping to revitalize alleyways, build dog parks, enliven underutilized public spaces and improve unsafe intersections. 

AARP Hawai‘i works in collaboration with communities across the state, bringing people together and providing resources and expertise to help make Hawai’i’s counties, towns and cities great places to live for people of all ages. In addition to the local Community Challenge Grant Awards, AARP Hawai‘i advocates for better pedestrian safety so kupuna and people of all ages don’t have to be afraid to cross the street. We also helped pass Honolulu’s new Age-Friendly Honolulu law that creates an Age-Friendly Honolulu program in city government so that Honolulu will become a better place to grow up and grow old in.

The application deadline is Wednesday, April 17, 2019, 11:59 p.m. ET, and all projects must be completed by Monday, November 4, 2019. Applications must be submitted through AARP.org/CommunityChallenge.

In 2018 AARP funded the Lei of Parks Family Day on Oahu that linked three Honolulu parks – Ala Moana, Kakaako and Kewalo Basin to give a glimpse of what it would be like if all of Oahu’s South Shore parks were linked by walking and bike paths. AARP also funded the Biki Social Rides, which gave free rides and training on how to use bicycle share to people 50 and older.


Book Trust welcomes new Hawaii Director Katie McMillan

Baron
-
0
Book Trust welcomes new Hawaii Director Katie McMillan

MEDIA RELEASE

Katie McMillan
Katie McMillan

Book Trust has selected local Maui resident, Katie McMillan as its new Hawai’i Director, effective January 1, 2019.

In her capacity, Katie will lead the organization’s fundraising efforts in Hawai‘i and be responsible for overall outreach, program and communications to build a community of diverse and sustainable support.  She has 19 years of experience in marketing, community relations, nonprofit fundraising and event production, previously holding director positions with University of Hawai‘i Maui College and Four Seasons Resort Maui. 

McMillan earned her Bachelor of Science degree in marketing communications from Mary Baldwin University in Staunton, Virginia. She also graduated from the Virginia Women’s Institute for Leadership and completed four years of Army ROTC at the Virginia Military Institute. She is a Ka Ipu Kukui Fellow and has served for four years on the planning committee for the Hawaiian Islands Land Trust’s annual fundraiser and has produced numerous community events including TEDxMaui. 

“We are thrilled to have Katie leading our Book Trust program in Hawai’i,” shares Jill Schatz, long-time resident of Maui and a founding member of Book Trust. “Book Trust has been able to make a difference in Hawai’i thanks to the generosity of the Maui community, and Katie is an integral part of that community. In addition to all the experience Katie brings to Book Trust, she also brings a tremendous spirit of fun, determination, and possibility! Katie’s arms are around the mission of Book Trust. Under her leadership, we will be reaching more and more students who are currently waiting for the program.”  

Book Trust, an early literacy 501(c)3 non-profit organization, serves over 5,000 kids in Hawai‘i and fourteen elementary schools in Hawai‘i. Through partnership with Scholastic Book Clubs, Book Trust uniquely delivers choice and ownership of books to children, building home libraries, increasing literacy skills, and fostering lifelong learning.

In the 2018-2019 school year, Book Trust is poised to provide almost 45,000 books to over 5,000 underserved students in partnership with school districts and teachers. Book Trust is currently offered in the following Hawai‘i schools: Haiku Elementary, Hana Elementary, Kahului Elementary, Lihikai Elementary, Makawao Elementary, Waihee Elementary, Wailuku Elementary, Honaunau Elementary, Lanai Elementary, Kualapu’u Elementary, Maunaloa Elementary, Nanaikapono Elementary, Palolo Elementary and Waianae Elementary.

If you would like to support Book Trust, they will be holding their annual fundraiser Extravaganza: The Odyssey at the Four Seasons Resort Maui on March 23, 2019 at 5:30pm. This Greek themed literacy celebration features a Mediterranean feast by Four Seasons Maui Executive Chef Craig Dryhurst, live entertainment, the opportunity to bid on one-of-a-kind live and silent auction items and more. One-hundred percent of the proceeds from the Book Trust’s Extravaganza: The Odyssey will go towards supporting Book Trust’s literacy program in Hawai‘i.

Extravaganza: The Odyssey is generously supported by Goodfellow Bros., Shep Gordon, Dorivn D. Leis Co., Scholastic Book Clubs, Agatha and Steve Luczo and the Serimus Foundation. 

For more information, to inquire about event sponsorship or to purchase tickets contact Katie McMillan at 808-283-4120 or kmcmillan@booktrust.org. Tickets can also be purchased online at bit.ly/extravaganza2019. For more information about Book Trust, go towww.booktrust.org.

High Surf Warning for Hawaii Island Saturday (Feb 16)

Baron
-
0
High Surf Warning for Hawaii Island Saturday (Feb 16)

This is a Civil Defense High Surf Warning message for 8 a.m., Saturday, February 16, 2019.

The National Weather Service continues the High Surf Warning for north and east facing shores of the Big Island through Saturday evening.

A High Surf Warning is issued when very strong breaking waves and strong longshore and rip currents will affect the coastline.

Due to the Warning, the following are issued:

  • County beach parks are open. Beachgoers, Swimmers, and Surfers should heed the instructions of Ocean Safety Personnel.
  • Do not enter the water as dangerous currents make entering the water hazardous.
  • HELCO has completed work on Highway 19 at the 38 mile marker and the road is open. Bayfront Highway remains closed.

Listen to your radio for updates on the weather conditions.

Coastal areas can expect strong breaking waves, shore breaks and strong longshore and rip currents making swimming difficult and dangerous.

Beachgoers, swimmers and surfers should heed the advice given by ocean safety officials and be careful. Know your limits and when in doubt, don’t go out.

Boaters should expect recreational surfers and bodyboarders using harbor channels to access surfing areas.

Hawaii Island lane closures for the week of February 16-22, 2019

Baron
-
0
Hawaii Island lane closures for the week of February 16-22, 2019

MEDIA RELEASE

PLEASE NOTE:
Lane closure schedules may change at any time without further notice.
All projects are weather permitting.

There will be no daytime lane closures scheduled for Monday, Feb. 18, in observance of Presidents’ Day, unless permitted to work.

— MAMALAHOA HIGHWAY (ROUTE 11/190) —

1) KA‘U

Alternating lane closure on Mamalahoa Highway (Route 11) in both directions between mile markers 58 and 60.6 in Pahala on Tuesday, Feb. 19, through Friday, Feb. 22, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., for landscaping and shoulder work.

2) KA‘U

Alternating lane closure on Hawaii Belt Road (Route 11) in both directions between mile markers 56 and 57 in the vicinity of Punaluu Black Sand Beach on Tuesday, Feb. 19, through Friday, Feb. 22, from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., for grading, hauling, and construction of temporary bridges. The speed limit will be reduced to 25 mph at both bridges.

3) NORTH KONA

Alternating lane closure on Mamalahoa Highway (Route 190) in both directions between mile markers 31 and 33 on Tuesday, Feb. 19, through Friday, Feb. 22, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., for landscaping and shoulder work.

4) VOLCANO

Alternating lane closure on Mamalahoa Highway (Route 11) in both directions in the vicinity of mile marker 29.3 in the Volcano National Park on Wednesday, Feb. 20, through Friday, Feb. 22, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., for road repairs.

— HAWAII BELT ROAD (ROUTE 19) —

1) HAMAKUA

Alternating lane closure on Hawaii Belt Road (Route 19) in both directions in the vicinity of Mile Markers 33 to 36 at Paauilo on Tuesday, Feb. 19, through Friday, Feb. 22, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., for landscaping.

2) NORTH HILO

Alternating lane closure on Hawaii Belt Road (Route 19) in both directions between mile markers 28.5 and 29.5 at Kaawalii Gulch on Tuesday, Feb. 19, through Friday, Feb. 22, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., for landscaping and shoulder work.

3) SOUTH HILO (WEEKEND/WEEKLY WORK)

Alternating lane closure on Hawaii Belt Road (Route 19) in both directions between mile markers 8 and 10 on Saturday, Feb. 16, and Tuesday, Feb. 19, through Friday, Feb. 22, from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., for road paving work.

4) SOUTH HILO (WEEKEND/WEEKLY WORK)

Alternating lane closure on Hawaii Belt Road (Route 19) in both directions in the vicinity of mile marker 11.1 in Pepeekeo on Saturday, Feb. 16, through Friday, Feb. 22, from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., for road repairs.

— QUEEN KAAHUMANU HIGHWAY (ROUTE 19) —

1) NORTH KONA (WEEKEND/NIGHT WORK)

Alternating lane closure on Queen Kaahumanu Highway/Hawaii Belt Road (Route 19) in both directions between Makala Boulevard intersection mile marker 99 and Henry Street intersection mile marker 122 on Saturday night, Feb. 16, through Monday morning, Feb. 18, from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m., for striping work.

— AKONI PULE HIGHWAY (ROUTE 270) —

1) NORTH KOHALA

Alternating lane closure on Akoni Pule Highway (Route 270) in both directions between mile markers 23 and 25 in Kapaau on Tuesday, Feb. 19, through Friday, Feb. 22, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., for landscaping work.

— VOLCANO ROAD (ROUTE 11) —

1) PUNA

Alternating lane closure on Volcano Road (Route 11) in both directions between mile markers 14 and 16 on Tuesday, Feb. 19, through Friday, Feb. 22, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., for landscaping and shoulder work.

— KOHALA MOUNTAIN ROAD (ROUTE 250) —

1) SOUTH KOHALA

Alternating lane closure on Kohala Mountain Road (Route 250) in both directions between Mile Markers 3 and 4 in Kapaau on Tuesday, Feb. 19, through Friday, Feb. 22, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., for landscaping and shoulder work.

Flash Flood Warning, heavy rains in lower Puna Thursday (Feb 14)

Baron
-
0
Flash Flood Warning, heavy rains in lower Puna Thursday (Feb 14)
A color enhanced infrared GOES-West satellite time-lapse movie of the Central Pacific February 7-14, 2019.

This is a Civil Defense Flash Flood Warning message for 11:30 a.m., Thursday, February 14, 2019.

The National Weather Service has issued a Flash Flood Watch for Hawaii Island, currently areas in lower Puna are receiving heavy rains.

Due to the Flash Flood Watch, the following advisories are issued:

  • No roads are closed at this time motorist should use caution due to occasional heavy downpours, driving conditions are poor. Be on the alert for possible road closures without notice.
  • Expect possible interruptions in your utility services.
  • Be on the alert for malfunctioning traffic signals. Please treat flashing traffic lights as a four-way stop.
  • Remember, if lightning does threaten your area, the safest place to be is indoors.

This radio station will be updated and you will be informed of any conditions that may affect your safety.

Campers and hikers should avoid low lying flood prone areas. People should stay away from streams, drainage ditches and low lying areas prone to flooding. The rainfall and runoff will cause hazardous driving conditions due to ponding, reduced visibility, and poor braking action. Excessive runoff may cause rockslides and mudslides in steep terrain. Remember, if lightning does threaten your area, the safest place to be is indoors.

Debris in streams and gulches may clog bridges and culverts resulting in flooding outside normal water channels causing damage.

Do not cross fast flowing or rising water in your vehicle or on foot. Turn around, don’t drown.

For links to the latest weather forecasts, reports, radar and satellite imagery visit our Weather Page at hawaii247.com/weather

High Surf Warning, Winter Storm Warning and Flood Watch for Hawaii Island Thursday (Feb 14)

Baron
-
0
High Surf Warning, Winter Storm Warning and Flood Watch for Hawaii Island Thursday (Feb 14)

MEDIA RELEASE

This is a Civil Defense message for 7 a.m., Thursday, February 14, 2019.

The National Weather Service High Surf Warning for east facing shores and High Surf Advisory for North facing shores remains in effect.

A High Surf Warning means there is a threat to life and property from the surf.

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for the summits of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa and a Flood Watch for the State of Hawaii.

Due to weather impacts, the following are in effect:

  • HELCO reports power restoration continues.  Highway 19 between the 38 and 39 mile markers will be restricted to a single lane of traffic from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm today to facilitate repairs.  Please drive with caution.
  • County Beach Parks from Keokea in Kohala through Laupahoehoe to Richardson Beach Park in Hilo are closed at this time.

Major Closures include:

  • Bayfront Highway
  • Akoni Pule Highway at I’ole Road one lane open at this time.

Please listen to the radio for Civil Defense updates.

Coastal areas can expect strong breaking waves, shore breaks and strong longshore and rip currents making swimming difficult and dangerous.

Beachgoers, swimmers and surfers should heed the advice given by ocean safety officials and be careful. Know your limits and when in doubt, don’t go out.

Boaters should expect recreational surfers and bodyboarders using harbor channels to access surfing areas.

State urges Argosy Hawaii students to take necessary steps to continue their education

Baron
-
0
State urges Argosy Hawaii students to take necessary steps to continue their education

MEDIA RELEASE

HONOLULU – The Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) encourages current and former Argosy Hawaii students to obtain their academic and financial records from the institution as soon as possible.  These records may be relevant and necessary for students to secure financial aid, loan forgiveness, or to continue their education. 

Dream Center Education Holdings (DCEH), the owner of Argosy Hawaii, provided notice to students that DCEH filed for receivership in federal court on January 18, 2019.  Subsequently, Argosy Hawaii’s accrediting agency, WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) placed the school on show cause status.  The school is still accredited and operating; however, students should be aware of the possibility that the school could abruptly close prior to the completion of their program.

The Hawaii Post-Secondary Education Authorization Program (HPEAP) is monitoring the situation closely and is in contact with the U.S. Department of Education, DCEH/Argosy leadership, and WSCUC to try to prevent an abrupt closure and reduce disruptions to students.  HPEAP has provided notice to all current Argosy Hawaii students with information about the institution’s situation and that a dedicated website is available with more information and updates. The page is accessible at http://cca.hawaii.gov/hpeap/main/argosy-university-status-information/. 

“We share the frustration over the inability to tell students anything definitive as it is a fluid and evolving situation that changes daily,” said Bobbi Lum-Mew, HPEAP Program Administrator.  “We are working to provide guidance and information on federal student loan forgiveness, transfer credits, and transcripts so that they can make the best decisions for themselves.”

Students were advised to review HPEAP’s resource guide in case the school closes.  The “Closed School Guide for Students” may be viewed at: http://cca.hawaii.gov/hpeap/files/2014/11/HPEAP-Closed-School-Guide-for-StudentsOct2015.pdf.  This resource guide provides students with information on obtaining records, understanding available options, differentiating between teach out vs. transfer, and explaining loan discharge.  Information about the federal loan discharge criteria, process, and application can be found at: https://studentaid.ed.gov/sa/repay-loans/forgiveness-cancellation/closed-school

For more information, visit the HPEAP website at http://cca.hawaii.gov/hpeap/main/argosy-university-status-information/, or email hpeap@dcca.hawaii.gov or call (808) 586-7327. 

High Surf Warning for East facing shores of Hawaii Island continues Wednesday (Feb 13)

Baron
-
0
High Surf Warning for East facing shores of Hawaii Island continues Wednesday (Feb 13)

MEDIA RELEASE

This is a Civil Defense update message for 3 p.m., Wednesday February 13, 2019.

The National Weather Service High Surf Warning for a large North and East swell continues for Hawaii Island.

A High Surf Warning means there is a threat to life and property from the surf.

Surf has been impacting the eastern shores and will continue through Thursday. The highest threat for coastal impacts will coincide with the high tide, which occurs at 12 midnight Wednesday night.

Due to the High Surf Warning the following Closures are in effect:

  • Bay Front Highway from Pauahi Street to Waianuenue.
  • County Beach parks from Keokea to Laupahoehoe and throughout Keaukaha are closed and will be assessed in the morning.

Do Take the Following Actions:

  • Oceanfront residents and beachgoers along the affected shores are advised to be on the alert for high and dangerous surf.
  • Harbor surge will affect Hilo Bay, boat owners and oceanfront residents should take action to secure their property.
  • Closures of roads and beaches may occur without notice.

This message will be updated and you will be informed of any conditions that may affect your safety.


Partial lane closure in Kalōpā extended as crews are working overnight to restore power

Baron
-
0
Partial lane closure in Kalōpā extended as crews are working overnight to restore power

MEDIA RELEASE

HILO, Feb. 13, 2019 (4 p.m.) – The partial lane closure of Hawai‘i Belt Road in Kalōpā between mile marker 38 and 39 will continue overnight and through Thursday, Feb. 14.

One lane will be closed to traffic to allow crews to replace damaged transmission poles and lines that were downed by gusty winds and fallen trees on Sunday. Motorists are advised to drive with caution in the construction area and expect delays of up to 45 minutes.

Last night and today, crews replaced 12 poles and electric service was restored to the majority of affected customers in Honoka‘a, Kalōpā State Park, Kukuihaele, and Waipi‘o Valley. Customers in portions of Maunakea Ranch and Waipunahina remain without service. In some remote areas, restoration efforts have been hindered by heavy rain, mud, uneven terrain and fallen trees.

Always assume that downed power lines are energized and dangerous. Stay at least 30 feet away and report it to the Trouble Desk at (808) 969-6666.

Outage notifications are posted on the company’s Twitter account @HIElectricLight with the hashtag #BigIslandOutage. To report an outage, please call (808) 969-6666.

Hunting at PTA available February 23-24, 2019

Baron
-
0

MEDIA RELEASE

PŌHAKULOA TRAINING AREA (PTA), Hawai‘i – The US Army at Pohakuloa Training Area (PTA) is offering a two day mammal hunt for local hunters February 23-24 from 6:30 am to 5:30 pm in the Ahi hunting area (Training Areas 9, 12-16). 

Bird permits are $25, and general hunting permits are $40 (which includes mammal and bird) and available at https://pta.isportsman.net/. Here, hunters can find more information regarding the schedule, fees, maps, regulations and more.

Hunters can also visit the “Hawai’i Island Hunting – PTA” Facebook group for updates and other Information including volunteer opportunities. Have questions, or an interest in attending the Game Management Advisory Council or GMAC? Call Brian Leo at 808-315-1545.  


High Surf Warning continues for Hawaii Island

Baron
-
0
High Surf Warning continues for Hawaii Island

This is a Civil Defense message for 6 a.m., Wednesday, February 13, 2019.

The National Weather Service High Surf Warning for north and east facing shores remains in effect.  Surf heights will increase this morning and remain through Thursday.

A High Surf Warning means there is a threat to life and property from the surf.

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for the summits of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa.

Due to weather impacts, the following are in effect:

  • HELCO reports power restoration continues.  Highway 19 between the 38 and 39 mile markers will be restricted to a single lane of traffic from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm today to facilitate repairs.  Please drive with caution.
  • County Beach Parks from Keokea through Laupahoehoe to Richardson Beach Park are closed today.
  • Delay going to the summits until the weather improves.

Major Closures include:

  • Bayfront Highway

The Honokaa Schools are open today.

Please listen to the radio for Civil Defense updates.  

This is your Hawaii County Civil Defense Agency.

1234...14Page 3 of 14
© Newspaper WordPress Theme by TagDiv