Friday, February 17, 2023

Aloha! If you have an event you want to promote on our newsletter, send us an email at [email protected]! Here is your fast and easy news headlines for today:

Remembering a Treasure: Norman Sakata

Norman Sakata, a well-known community leader and volunteer, passed away on Tuesday evening at the age of 95. Sakata had a long history of active involvement in the community, having served as a lifelong member of several organizations, including the Board of Directors of the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival, Lions Club, and Boy Scouts of America.

Sakata's passion for coffee led him to become one of the founding members of the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival, where he served on the board for many years. He was instrumental in promoting and preserving the Kona coffee industry, which remains a vital part of the local economy.

Sakata was also actively involved with the Lions Club, where he served as a member for over 60 years. He was known for his tireless dedication to the club's mission of serving the community and helping those in need. His contributions were widely recognized, and he received several awards for his service over the years.

In addition to his work with the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival and Lions Club, Sakata was a dedicated member of the Boy Scouts of America. He volunteered his time and resources to help guide and mentor countless young men throughout the years.

Sakata's passing has left a deep void in the community he served so tirelessly. He will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to making Kona a better place for all its residents. Photo Courtesy: Big Island Video News

Mayor Roth: New Emergency Proclamation Prior to Storm

Mayor Mitch Roth has signed a Mayor’s Severe Weather Emergency Proclamation in anticipation of an expected heavy rainfall event on Hawaiʻi Island. The signed proclamation ensures a streamlined response and coordination of resources in the event of a disaster. The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch for the County and State of Hawaiʻi, with up to 20 inches of rainfall expected over the next few days. The Waipiʻo Valley Access Road has been closed due to the early onset of the weather system, and more closures are expected. The areas expected to see the most severe impacts are Kaʻū, Puna, and Hilo, including areas along the Hāmākua Coast to Waipiʻo Valley. West Hawaiʻi will also be impacted due to continued convection from the storm. Road crews, utilities, Fire, and Police are on standby to address the impacts caused by the weather as they occur to ensure public safety. The County has identified shelters in varying locations, and camping permits may be terminated if necessary. Officials will continue to monitor the situation and update the public. The public can access real-time information on the County of Hawaiʻi Civil Defense Hazard Map or via the County’s mobile application, Kāhea, available on both Android and iPhone. No outdoor events or activities have been canceled at this time, but closures and/or cancellations may be necessary depending on the severity of the weather impacts.

DHHL: Senate Says 'No', Anderson Calls Quits

The State Senate Committee on Hawaiian Affairs held a contentious hearing regarding the consideration of Ikaika Anderson as chair of the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL). Despite support testimony at the hearing on February 14th, Anderson, a former Congress and Lt. Governor hopeful and a former City Councilman, withdrew his consideration as chair.

The decision to withdraw his nomination came after the Senate signaled that it was likely to vote against his appointment, and former DHHL Director William Aila expressed his opposition to Anderson's appointment. Despite this setback, Governor Green will continue to search for a new appointee to fill the cabinet and oversee nearly 30,000 Native Hawaiian applicants to the DHHL.

The new appointee will have the responsibility of overseeing the allocation of $600 million in funding from the State Legislature for projects that benefit Hawaiians. This is a significant boost in funding, and the new DHHL chair will have a vital role in ensuring that these funds are used effectively to improve the lives of Native Hawaiians.

Although Anderson has withdrawn his consideration, Governor Green has announced that he will remain as DHHL chair until a new chair is approved by the Senate. It is yet to be seen who the governor will appoint to fill this critical position, but the new chair will have significant responsibilities and a vital role to play in advancing the interests of Native Hawaiians.

Waimea man arrested for terroristic threatening at Waimea Elementary (Continued)

A 55-year-old Waimea man has been charged with terroristic threatening by Hawai‘i Island police after an incident that resulted in a local school going into lockdown. The police received a report of the man hitting a car with a hand tool, potentially a hatchet, at a shopping center in Waimea. The man, identified as Randy Lloyd, fled the scene before the police arrived. Later, his girlfriend reported that he was smashing her car with an axe at their home. Police found that the man had fled again and initiated an extensive search on foot and by vehicle. As a precautionary measure, Waimea Elementary School went into lockdown after officials were informed of the search. The suspect was eventually apprehended and arrested for terroristic threatening with the help of South Kohala patrol officers and Area II Vice officers. After conferring with the County prosecutor's Office, police charged Lloyd with one count of first-degree terroristic threatening. He remains in police custody at the Kona Cellblock with a bail set at $10,000. Anyone with information on the case is encouraged to contact the police at (808) 887-3080 or email Officer Robert Sakata at [email protected]. Tipsters who wish to remain anonymous can call the islandwide Crime Stoppers line at (808) 961-8300.

HPD: Runaway Located

According to the latest report from Hawai‘i Island police, 13-year-old Arieana R.K. Balbin, who had been reported as a runaway earlier, was found safe and in good health in Puna on Wednesday, February 15, 2023.

Civil Defense: High Surf Advisory in Effect

The Hawaii County Civil Defense Agency has issued a High Surf Advisory message on Thursday, February 16th at 4:00 pm, based on a notification from the National Weather Service. The advisory is for east-facing shores of Hawaii Island, spanning from Upolu Point in North Kohala through Cape Kumukahi in Puna to South Point in Ka'u, from 6:00 am Friday through 6:00 pm Saturday.

The High Surf Advisory indicates that the surf will be higher than normal, with shore breaks and dangerous currents that could lead to injury or death. Therefore, the following recommendations have been issued:

Expect strong breaking waves, shore break, and rip currents, which could make swimming difficult and dangerous.

Beach-goers, swimmers, and surfers should follow all guidance provided by ocean safety officials. If in doubt, refrain from going out.

Although there are no beach closures at this time, be aware that beaches may shut down without prior notice.

The Hawaii County Civil Defense Agency reminds everyone to stay safe and take necessary precautions during this time.

Kona Man Arrested in Hit and Run that Critically Injured California Man

A single-vehicle collision at the intersection of Henry Street and Hale Kapili Street in North Kona on Thursday, February 16, 2023, resulted in critical injuries to a 73-year-old California man who was struck while crossing the street in a marked crosswalk. The driver of the green 2022 Dodge Ram 2500 pickup truck, 39-year-old Graham Allen Racine of Kailua-Kona, fled the scene after the collision but later turned himself in to the police station. Racine was arrested for first-degree negligent injury, failure to render aid, accident involving substantial bodily injury, and operating a vehicle under the influence of an intoxicant. Police believe that speed and impairment may have been factors in the collision. The victim is currently listed in critical condition at the Kona Community Hospital. The investigation is ongoing, and anyone who witnessed the incident is encouraged to contact the Area II Traffic Enforcement Unit or Crime Stoppers.

Gov. Green Orders Flags Half-Staff for the Ambassador of Aloha

The late Danny Kaleikini, widely considered Hawai‘i’s Ambassador of Aloha to the world, will be honored by flying the United States flag and the Hawaiʻi state flag at half-staff. This order was given by Governor Josh Green, M.D. for all state offices, agencies, and the Hawaiʻi National Guard in the State of Hawaiʻi from sunrise on Aloha Friday, Feb. 17 through sundown Saturday, Feb. 18. The memorial service for Uncle Danny, as he was affectionately known, will be held on Saturday, Feb. 18, at Kawaiaha‘o Church, where Governor Green, Mayor Rick Blangiardi, and other dignitaries will participate. The service is open to the public, with visitation from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. and the service starting at 10:30 a.m. Uncle Danny was a lifelong singer, musician, recording artist, actor, and all-around entertainer who came from humble beginnings and rose to shine as the headliner at the Hala Terrace of the then-Kāhala Hilton for some 27 years. Danny Kaleikini was 85 years old when he passed away on January 6, 2023, leaving behind a lasting legacy that will always be in the hearts of the people of Hawai‘i.

DLNR: Climate Commission approves Gov. Green Request

The Hawai‘i Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission, a 20-member group, has approved Governor Josh Green's proposal to create a $100 million climate fund aimed at guiding the state's adaptation and mitigation efforts against climate change. The fund will be administered by the Commission and housed at the DLNR. It would be used to leverage historic federal matching funds for climate action, provide year-round funding for government and communities, facilitate better coordination between communities and agencies, and receive donations from non-government organizations. The Commission’s support for the fund is consistent with its commitment to address climate change, as the fund is a continued commitment to investing significant funds and resources to combat climate change.

County Calendar:

• Police Commission Meeting: Date: 02/17/2023 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM Location: Aupuni Center 101 Pauahi St. Hilo, Hawaii 96720

• Merit Appeals Board Date:02/17/2023 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Location:Hilo Council Chambers-Hawaii County Building25 Aupuni Street, First Floor, Room. 1401Hilo, Hawaii 96720

Legislative Update:

• An upcoming Town hall hosted by Representative Jeanne Kapela on Thursday, February 23 at 6:30p in Cooper Center, Volcano HI. Those who are interested in attending may contact Community Liaison - Zee Zaidoff at [email protected] for more details.

Road Closures:

— VOLCANO ROAD/MAMALAHOA HIGHWAY (ROUTE 11) —

1) NORTH OF PAHALA (WEEKEND WORK)

Single lane closure on Mamalahoa Highway (Route 11) possible in either direction between mile markers 44 and 46, on Saturday, Feb. 11, and Sunday, Feb. 12, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for vegetation cutting.

2) NAALEHU

Single lane closure on Mamalahoa Highway (Route 11) possible in either direction between mile markers 62 and 66, vicinity of Naalehu Driver Licensing Station and Hao Springs Road, on Tuesday, Feb. 14, through Friday, Feb. 17, from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. for mowing and grass cutting.

3) CAPTAIN COOK

Single lane closure on Mamalahoa Highway (Route 11) possible in either direction between mile markers 106 and 109, vicinity of Honaunau Elementary School and Koa Road, on Tuesday, Feb. 14, through Friday, Feb. 17, from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. for mowing.

— KUAKINI HIGHWAY (ROUTE 11) —

1) HONALO

Single lane closure on Kuakini Highway (Route 11) possible in either direction in the vicinity of mile marker 114, near West Honalo Road, on Monday, Feb. 13, through Friday, Feb. 17, from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., for Kuakini Drainage Improvements.

— HAWAII BELT ROAD (ROUTE 19) —

1) PAPAIKOU TO PEPEEKEO

Single lane closure on Hawaii Belt Road (Route 19) possible in either direction between mile markers 9 and 11, vicinity of Onohi Loop/Kahalii Place and Old Mamalahoa Road (near Makea Stream), on Tuesday, Feb. 14, through Friday, Feb. 17, from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., for mowing and grass cutting.

2) PEPEEKEO TO HAKALAU (WEEKEND WORK)

Single lane closure on Hawaii Belt Road (Route 19) possible in either direction between mile markers 10 and 14, Kulaimano Road to vicinity of Kolekole Beach Park, on Saturday, Feb. 11, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., for vegetation cutting.

3) HAKALAU

Single lane closure on Hawaii Belt Road (Route 19) possible in either direction between mile markers 13 and 14, vicinity of Kolekole Beach Park, on Tuesday, Feb. 14, through Friday, Feb. 17, from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., for vegetation cutting.

4) HAKALAU TO NINOLE (WEEKEND WORK)

Single lane closure on Hawaii Belt Road (Route 19) possible in either direction between mile markers 14 and 16, vicinity of Kolekole Beach Park and Umauma Stream, on Saturday, Feb. 11, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., for vegetation cutting

5) LAUPAHOEHOE

Single lane closure on Hawaii Belt Road (Route 19) possible in either direction between mile markers 23 and 28, Kapehu Road to vicinity of Stevens Road, on Monday, Feb. 13, through Friday, Feb. 17, from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. for paving.

— KAWAIHAE ROAD (ROUTE 19) —

1) KAMUELA

Single lane closure on Kawaihae Road (Route 19) possible in either direction between mile markers 58 and 60, vicinity of Ko Uka Street and Ohina Street, on Tuesday, Feb. 14, through Friday, Feb. 17, from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., for shoulder work.

— KEAAU-PAHOA ROAD (ROUTE 130) —

1) KEAAU (WEEKEND AND WEEKLY WORK)

Single lane closure on Keaau-Pahoa Road (Route 130) possible in either direction between mile markers 0 and 3, Volcano Road and the Adopt A Highway sign, on Saturday, Feb. 11, and Sunday, Feb. 12, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Tuesday, Feb. 14, through Friday, Feb. 17, from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. for vegetation cutting.

2) KEAAU TO HAWAIIAN PARADISE PARK (WEEKEND WORK)

Single lane closure on Keaau-Pahoa Road (Route 130) possible in either direction between mile markers 3 and 5, vicinity of the Adopt A Highway sign and between Puakalo Street and Kaloli Drive, on Saturday, Feb. 11, and Sunday, Feb. 12, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for vegetation removal from culverts.

— KOHALA MOUNTAIN ROAD (ROUTE 250) —

1) KOHALA (WEEKEND WORK)

Single lane closure on Kohala Mountain Road (Route 250) possible in either direction between mile markers 5 and 9, vicinity of the Koaiʻa Tree to past the Kohala Ranch Road, on Saturday, Feb. 11, and Sunday, Feb. 12, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for shoulder stabilization.

2) KOHALA

Single lane closure on Kohala Mountain Road (Route 250) possible in either direction between mile markers 7 and 9, vicinity of Kohala Ranch Road, on Tuesday, Feb. 14, through Friday, Feb. 17, from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. for tree trimming.