Community
Saving the best for last: Minnesota couple complete 50-state canoe journey on Kaua‘i
Wendy Norcross and her husband Frank Wattunen launched their final paddle out today (April 13) into the Hanalei River on their journey to float waters in honor of Norcross’ parents, both of whom died from dementia, while raising awareness for the Alzheimer’s Association.
Kaua‘i Ocean Friendly Restaurant Spotlight: Kīlauea Bakery & Pizzeria
Kīlauea Bakery & Pizzeria’s Sami Livé says being honored with Surfrider Foundation designation is about doing her restaurant’s part for a healthier planet while serving great food and coffee.
After numerous upgrades, survey seeks feedback from public about Kalena Park
Community members encouraged to complete online survey aimed at gauging public opinion about the 1.33-acre downtown Līhuʻe park and what future projects they’d like to see there.
Kaua‘i County Office of Economic Development launches new coconut rhinoceros beetle resource web page
It is another critical online resource and new central hub for residents, farmers and businesses to learn how to identify the invasive insect, take action and report possible infestations.
REMINDER: Vidinha Stadium in Līhuʻe closed through December for improvements
Signs are posted around the stadium’s grounds informing the public about the closure, which began in March. The $12.2 phase one construction project at the popular facility, which offers a variety of community activities throughout the year, is estimated to be finished by sometime in December.
Renovated Princeville library begins limited door service in May
Pop-up library location to close April 12. Books can still be returned through library building’s book drop or to any other public library on the Garden Isle.
12-year-old Kōloa boy ran away April 6; have you seen him?
Lokahi Valpoon was last seen in Anahola. He is known to frequent the Anahola, Līhu‘e, Puhi and Kōloa areas. Call the Kaua‘i Police Department or contact Crime Stoppers Kaua‘i immediately if you have any information that can help lead to finding him.
Commercial airliner crash simulation at Līhu‘e Airport to bring multiple agencies together
The full-scale rescue and emergency response exercise April 15 is an effort to strengthen communication and coordination between first responders in the participating agencies while assessing notification and response procedures.
Lower summer tuition rates available at Univeristy of Hawai‘i Community Colleges
Registration for summer courses at a lowered tuition rate for Hawaiʻi residents is open at all seven University of Hawai‘i Community Colleges, providing students with an accelerated and cost-effective way to earn credits. Hawaiʻi residents pay just $131 per credit (normally $248), and can use this opportunity to save money, get ahead academically and explore new classes—all in a shorter time frame.
Senate passes Hirono resolution designating April as ‘National Native Plant Month’
The US Senate unanimously passed a resolution led by Sen. Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), designating April 2025 as “National Native Plant Month.”
Keiki and Junior Lifeguard programs on Kaua‘i kick off in June
Registration will be available online starting at 7:45 a.m. on May 1.
UH Community Colleges CTE marketing campaign awarded in national competition
The nursing program at Kauaʻi Community College is one of the programs highlighted by the series, which signs a light on nontraditional CTE programs.
‘Making a lasting impact’: Ana Española named Kui Kauaʻi Employee of the Year
The work of the economic development specialist, who has been with Kauaʻi County since the fall of 2021, is focused on making sure the Garden Isle has a sustainable future.
Kapa‘a Swimming Pool closed until further notice
Parks and Recreation closed the pool April 1 following a mechanical failure. The Waimea pool remains open for its regular schedule.
‘Safeguarding our families and keiki’: Kaua‘i Police Commission honors Officer Myles Mendoza
Kaua‘i Police Department officer had no idea when he pulled over a driver for not wearing their seatbelt the weekend before Christmas 2024 that he would subsequently be keeping more than 100 grams of cocaine and other dangerous drugs off Garden Isle streets.
Hawai‘i Wildfire Management Organization recognized as a top leader in wildfire mitigation
Nonprofit based in Waimea on Big Island and dedicated to protecting Hawai‘i’s communities and natural resources from devastating effects of wildfires was one of just 5 organizations and individuals in the nation to be honored recently by National Association of State Foresters.
Enter now for your chance to win one of three 50-gallon rain barrels
Drawing will be April 30. Visit the Kauaʻi County Department of Water office in Līhuʻe to fill out an entry ticket, and while you’re there consider donating to the department’s monthlong Earth Day Food Drive for Hawaiʻi Food Bank and Kauaʻi Independent Food Bank, too.
Reopen for business: Freshly face-lifted Shenanigans hosts sold-out Business After Hours
Shenanigans has served military members and local residents since it opened in 1989. The sold-out Business After Hours underscored the strong and valuable relationships between the Navy, Kaua‘i Chamber of Commerce, business owners and local community.
Kauaʻi residents to protest recent policy actions from Trump, Musk on nationwide Day of Action
Indivisible Kauaʻi is joining over 1,000 protests planned across the nation to take a stand against recent policy actions from President Donald Trump and Elon Musk.
Schatz leads bipartisan resolution recognizing significant contributions of Native women, including 6 Native Hawaiians
Specific Native Hawaiian women spotlighted in the resolution included: Queen Ka‘ahumanu, Isabella Kauakea Yau Yung Aiona Abbott, Mary Kawena Pukui, Edith Kenao Kanaka‘ole, Rell Kapolioka‘ehukai Sunn, and Emma Ka‘ilikapuolono Metcalf Beckley Nakuina.