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Here is your fast news headlines:

BREAKING:

6:50am: Daniel K Inouye Hwy partially closed near the 47 mile marker due to a crash. Detour through Old Saddle Road. Drive with caution

Gov. Green Makes 100th Day as Governor

Governor Josh Green, M.D. marks his 100th day in office as Hawaiʻi’s ninth governor. During this period, Gov. Green has fully staffed his office and cabinet and accomplished several milestones. The Governor shared his pride in his team's achievements, which he believes is a new beginning for the state. Among the accomplishments are the nomination of a cabinet of qualified state leaders, the emergency proclamation to address homelessness and protect cultural and environmental resources, and the creation of tiny home villages on Hawaiʻi island. Other milestones include the championing of legislation to decrease the cost to access government documents, the creation of a Climate Impact Fund and a State Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission, and the Green Affordability Plan (GAP) to address Hawai‘i’s high cost of living. During his first legislative session, the Governor proposed 147 bills, engaged with diverse groups, and took decisive, executive actions on housing, homelessness, affordability, and climate change as promised. The Governor shared a video to commemorate the accomplishments of which he is most proud.

Water Service to be Restored at Hāpuna Beach

The Division of State Parks (DSP) is implementing a multi-faceted approach to restore water service at Hāpuna Beach, which has been a recurring issue. The DLNR is currently conducting an investigation to determine the root causes of the persistent leaks that have affected the current water system over the years. These findings will inform the design and materials used for a new, permanent system to prevent future problems.

However, the top priority is to restore a temporary system that will provide potable water for the restrooms and showers at the beach. This above-ground piping system is expected to be operational by July. The long-term solution, which involves design, permitting, and installation of the new water system, is a more complex undertaking, with completion set for April 2024.

According to DSP Administrator Curt Cottrell, the repair process has been challenging, given the constant need for closures and repairs since 2018, the limited staff, and difficulties in obtaining timely repair services. The DSP aims to provide a reliable and long-term source of fresh water for visitors and residents of Hāpuna Beach and eliminate the need for portable toilets.

Maunaloa and Kilauea Cool

The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory has announced that the alert level for Mauna Loa volcano has been lowered from advisory to normal. The volcano, which last erupted on December 13, 2022, has been quiet for the past three months and the number of earthquakes beneath its summit has returned to background levels. While inflation of Mauna Loa continues as magma replenishes the summit magma chamber, the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory has stated that there are currently no signs of renewed activity. As a result of the change, updates for Mauna Loa will now be monthly instead of weekly. Visitors and residents are advised to stay informed and follow guidelines provided by the County of Hawai‘i and Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.

No Tsunami in Hawaii After 7.1 Earthquake Off of Kermadec Islands (South Pacific)

A 7.1 magnitude earthquake struck off the Kermadec Islands in the South Pacific, but no tsunami warning was issued for Hawaii. Meanwhile, New Zealand experienced substantial damage as a result of the earthquake.

17 Drivers Under the Influence Between March 6 - March 12

Hawai‘i Island police have reported the arrest of 17 drivers for driving under the influence of an intoxicant during the week of March 6, 2023, through March 12, 2023. Out of the 17, five drivers were involved in traffic accidents, and one driver was underage.

Comparing the data from this year to last year, there has been a decrease of 8.7 percent in DUI arrests. Specifically, there were 211 DUI arrests this year and 231 during the same period last year. However, the number of major crashes has increased by 23.3 percent with 180 crashes so far this year compared to 146 during the same period last year, according to a review by the Hawai‘i Police Department’s Traffic Services Section.

In terms of fatal crashes, there have been four fatal crashes resulting in five fatalities so far this year, including one reclassified due to natural causes. Additionally, there was one fatal crash with multiple deaths. This is a 42.9 percent decrease in fatal crashes and a 44.4 percent decrease in fatalities compared to seven fatal crashes resulting in nine fatalities, including one with multiple deaths, during the same period last year.

Hawai‘i Police Department’s Traffic Services Section will continue to conduct DUI roadblocks and patrols throughout the island.

PA's Office Announce Criminal Charges Against Spenser Jordon Feary for the theft of a Honda Civic

A Hilo man, Spenser Jordon Feary, has been charged by Prosecuting Attorney Kelden Waltjen in connection to the theft of a Honda Civic, which was reported stolen from a residence on Ho‘ohua Street in Hilo on March 13, 2023. Additionally, Feary was arrested on several unrelated outstanding warrants at the time of his arrest. Feary is currently in custody with a $35,000.00 bail for the theft-related charges and an additional $75,000.00 bail for other unrelated felony offenses.

Feary, who has prior felony convictions, faces charges of Theft in the First Degree (theft of a motor vehicle, Honda Civic) and Unauthorized Control of a Propelled Vehicle in the First Degree. Theft in the First Degree is a class B felony and could lead to a ten-year prison sentence if convicted. Feary is scheduled to appear in Hilo District Court on Wednesday afternoon for his initial hearing.

The case was initiated by South Hilo Patrol, and the vehicle was recovered by Puna Patrol. Detective Paul Mangus from the Area I Criminal Investigation Section of the Hawai‘i Police Department handled the felony investigation, while Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Lucas Burns is prosecuting the case.

It's important to note that the charges are merely allegations, and Feary is presumed innocent until proven guilty. The Office of the Prosecuting Attorney encourages anyone with information that could help the investigation to call Crime Stoppers at (808) 961-8300.

Police Requests Publics Help in Search for Missing:

17-year-old Deandre Moore and 15-year-old Shaicen Lewis-Benevides

The Hawai‘i Island police have issued an appeal to the public to help locate two teenage boys who have been reported missing from East Hawai‘i. Deandre Moore, 17, and Shaicen Lewis-Benevides, 15, have been reported as runaways.

Moore was last seen in Hilo around 4:00 p.m. on February 15, 2023, in the vicinity of Desha Avenue. He was wearing black jeans, a black hoodie, and black shoes at the time of his disappearance. He is described as African-American, with brown curly hair and brown eyes, around 5 feet 6 inches tall, and weighing approximately 150 pounds.

Lewis-Benevides, who is pictured wearing a red baseball hat, was last seen on West Kawili Street in Hilo at 7:00 a.m. on March 10, 2023. He is described as 5 feet 7 inches tall, weighing around 135 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes.

The police urge anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of either teenager to contact the police department's non-emergency line at (808) 935-3311. The police department is seeking public cooperation to bring the boys home safely.

27-year old Daniel Josiah Peaster Last Seen in Pololu

Hawaii Island police are seeking the public's help in locating Daniel Josiah Peaster, a 27-year-old who was reported missing in mid-November 2022. Peaster, who was last known to be heading to the North Kohala district to camp in the Pololu Valley area, may still be camping or living in the area and occasionally coming out for supplies. He may also be operating a blue van. The police department has released a description of Peaster, who is 6 feet tall, 150 pounds, with brown hair and blue eyes, and is asking anyone with information to contact the police department or Detective Paul Mangus.

76-year old William Romeo Bishop Sr. Last Seen in Kea'au

Hawai‘i Island authorities are once again appealing for assistance in locating 76-year-old William Romeo Bishop Sr., who went missing on January 22, 2023. Bishop was last seen near his home in the Hawaiian Paradise Park Subdivision, in Kea‘au, and his family is deeply concerned about his wellbeing. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the recovery of Bishop's 2019 Toyota Corolla. Bishop is described as a 5'8" tall Caucasian with gray hair and green eyes. The family is offering a cash reward for information that may lead to his whereabouts. Police are urging anyone with information to contact the non-emergency police number at (808) 935-3311, Detective Scotty Aloy at (808) 961-2381, or email [email protected]. Those who wish to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at (808) 961-8300, with the possibility of receiving a reward of up to $1,000. All Crime Stoppers information is kept confidential.

59-year-old Jeffrey Clarkson of Kealakekua

Hawai‘i Island police are seeking the public's help in finding 59-year-old Jeffrey Clarkson, who was reported missing from his Kealakekua residence. He has a medical condition that requires regular medication.

According to reports, Clarkson was last seen at his home in the 84-6100 block of D Road in Captain Cook on Wednesday, March 15, 2023, around 11 p.m., wearing a dark v-neck t-shirt, blue denim jeans, and blue Croc shoes.

Clarkson is described as being 5 feet 9 inches tall, weighing between 215 to 220 pounds, with short black and white hair, a short grey beard, and brown eyes.

Anyone who may have seen Clarkson or has information about his whereabouts is urged to call the Hawai‘i Island police department's non-emergency number at (808) 935-3311 or lead investigator Officer Kaneala Abaya at (808) 326-4646 ext. 253.

Summer Program Announced by the County of Hawai'i

The Hawai‘i County Department of Parks and Recreation has announced the launch of its 2023 Summer Program, which will be held at 22 locations across the island. The Summer Fun and teen programs will be six weeks long, from June 5, 2023, to July 14, 2023. The program will be held in various districts such as Hilo, Hāmākua, North/South Kohala, North/South Kona, and Puna/Ka‘ū. Additionally, the 'Ike Pono program for 3rd-8th graders will take place at three new locations: Kula‘imano Community Center, Honomū Gym, and Pāpa’aloa Annex. Teens can participate in programs at Pu‘u‘eo Community Center, Pāpa‘ikou Gym, and the Spencer “Kalani” Schutte District Park. More information about the program, including registration dates, cost, and age groups, can be found on the department's website, and queries can be directed to the respective Hawai‘i County Recreation facility or the Recreation Division office in Hilo.

Early Childhood Education Stipend Program Announced

The State of Hawaiʻi Executive Office of Early Learning (EOEL), in partnership with the University of Hawaiʻi and the Samuel N. and Mary Castle Foundation, has announced a tuition stipend program for current and potential early childhood educators and caregivers. The program is aimed at increasing the qualifications of the ECE workforce by offering stipends to students enrolled in qualified college-level Early Childhood Education certificate and degree programs throughout the University of Hawaiʻi college system.

To qualify for the stipend, applicants must commit to providing early care and education services directly to children from birth through 5 years of age for at least two consecutive years in one of the early learning systems described in HRS § 302L-2, including Hawaiian language medium and Hawaiian immersion settings and early learning settings at charter schools. Eligible applicants include those who work or have an interest in working as infant/toddler caregivers, preschool teachers or assistants, FCIL educators, home visitors, family childcare providers, or educators in some capacity in an ECE program serving children 0-5 years old.

Awardees could be eligible for up to part- or full-time tuition costs, depending on funds available and the number of qualified applicants. However, they must remain eligible by meeting the requirements for grades (C or better). The program has set specific deadlines for applications, which vary depending on the semester. The application process can be accessed through a QR code or weblink, and tuition awards will be announced about one week before the semester begins.

It is important to note that stipend recipients are still responsible for any remaining tuition balance not covered by the stipend award, and any stipend received for tuition and fees will be considered as part of their financial aid eligibility. Any outside funding a student receives that pays for any portion of the student's cost of attendance must also be considered when determining eligibility for financial aid.

The Hawaiʻi Early Childhood Educator Stipend Program is a collaboration between the EOEL and Graduate Early Childhood Education Programs at the College of Education, UH Mānoa. For more information, interested parties can visit tiny.cc/ecestipend or contact [email protected], (808) 956-2376.

ROAD WORK FOR THE WEEK OF MARCH 11 – MARCH 17

PLEASE NOTE:

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

— MAMALOHA HIGHWAY (ROUTE 11) —

1) PAHALA

Single lane closure on Mamaloha Highway (Route 11) possible in either direction between mile markers 53 and 55, on Akaka Fall Road and Kaupakuea Homestead Road, on Monday, March 13, through Friday, March 17, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for vegetation cutting.

2) CAPTAIN COOK

Single lane closure on Mamalahoa Highway (Route 11) possible in either direction between mile markers 108.9 and 109.3, on Tuesday, March 14, and Wednesday, March 15, from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. for installation of a new waterline. 

3) PAHALA (WEEKEND WORK)

Single lane closure on Mamalahoa Highway (Route 11) possible in either direction between mile markers 44 and 46, on Saturday, March 12, and Sunday, March 13, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for vegetation cutting.

— MAMALOHA HIGHWAY (ROUTE 190) —

 1) WAIKOLOA

Single lane closure on Mamalahoa Highway (Route 190) possible in either direction between mile markers 17 and 19, Mamalahoa Highway and Waikoloa Road, on Monday March 13, through Friday, March 17, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for vegetation cutting.

2) WAIKOLOA

Single lane closure on Mamalahoa Highway (Route 190) possible in either direction between mile markers 17.9 and 26.2, on Monday March 13, through Friday, March 17, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for installation of shoulder extension.

3) KALAOA

Single lane closure on Mamalahoa Highway (Route 190) possible in either direction between mile markers 26 and 28, on Monday March 13, through Friday, March 17, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for vegetation cutting.

4) WAIKOLOA (WEEKEND WORK)

Single lane closure on Mamalahoa Highway (Route 190) possible in either direction between mile markers 7 and 11, in vicinity of Waikoloa Road, on Saturday, March 11, and Sunday, March 12, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for vegetation cutting.

 — KEAAU-PAHOA ROAD (ROUTE 130) —

 1) KEAAU

Single lane closure on Keaau-Pahoa Road (Route 130) possible in either direction between mile markers 2 and 5, on Monday, March 13, through Friday, March 17, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for vegetation cutting. 

2) KEAAU (WEEKEND WORK)

Single lane closure on Keaau-Pahoa Road (Route 130) possible in either direction between mile markers 3 and 6, between Keaau-Pahoa Road and Orchid Land Drive on Saturday, March 11, and Sunday, March 12, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for vegetation cutting.

— HONOMU ROAD (ROUTE 220) —

 1) HONOMU

Single lane closure on Honomu Road (Route 220) possible in either direction between mile markers 0 and 1.5, on Monday, March 13, through Friday, March 17, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for vegetation cutting.

— HAWAII BELT ROAD (ROUTE 19) —

1) HAKALAU

Single lane closure on Hawaii Belt Road (Route 19) possible in either direction between mile markers 15 and 17, vicinity Old Mamalahoa Highway on Monday, March 13, through Friday, March 17, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for tree-trimming, vegetation cutting, and removal.

2) HAKALAU

Single lane closure on Hawaii Belt Road (Route 19) possible in either direction between mile markers 17 and 19, vicinity Old Mamalahoa Highway and Hanamalo Lane, on Monday, March 13, through Friday, March 17, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for tree-trimming, vegetation cutting, and removal. 

3) PAPAALOA TO LAUPAHOEHOE

Single lane closure on Hawaii Belt Road (Route 19) possible in either direction between mile markers 23.09 and 27.68 for road resurfacing, between Kapehu Road and Stevens Road, on Monday, March 13, through Friday, March 17, from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

4) KAMUELA

Single lane closure on Hawaii Belt Road (Route 19) possible in either direction between mile markers 52 and 55, between Kekehau Street and Kakanihia Road, on Monday, March 13, through Friday, March 17, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for emergency tree-trimming work.

5) HAKALAU (WEEKEND WORK)

Single lane closure on Hawaii Belt Road (Route 19) possible in either direction between mile markers 14 and 16, on Saturday, March 11, and Sunday, March 12, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for tree-trimming, vegetation cutting, and removal. 

6) HAKALAU (WEEKEND WORK)

Single lane closure on Hawaii Belt Road (Route 19) possible in either direction between mile markers 14 and 17, on Saturday, March 11, and Sunday, March 12, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for tree-trimming, vegetation cutting, and removal.

— KOHALA MOUNTAIN ROAD (ROUTE 250) — 

1) KAMUELA

Single lane closure on Kohala Mountain Road (Route 250) possible in either direction between mile markers 9 and 13 for road resurfacing, between Kapehu Road and Stevens Road, on Monday, March 13, through Friday, March 17, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

— KUAKINI HIGHWAY (ROUTE 11) —

1) KAILUA-KONA

Single lane closure on Kuakini Highway (Route 11) possible in either direction in the vicinity of mile marker 113.9, near West Honalo Road, on Monday, March 13, through Friday, March 17, from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., for Kuakini Drainage Improvements.