Kaua‘i News

“Every tool our officers rely on in the field is secured and managed through Desiree’s efforts, ensuring our teams have the resources they need to serve the community effectively,” said Kaua‘i Police Department Chief Rudy Tai in an announcement about Wakuta-Matsuda’s award. “For her outstanding contributions, we are honored to name her Employee of the Month.”

This initiative seeks to engage artists to explore the realities of climate change and channel their art to inspire and connect Hawaiʻi residents to climate challenges around the state.

April is Volunteer Month throughout the nation; recent data show additional federal funding cutbacks are placing unprecedented strain on organizations that provide backbone of support for the state’s social, environmental and educational safety nets.

A powerful 7.8 magnitude earthquake rattled the Molucca Sea on Wednesday afternoon, but authorities assure no tsunami threat looms over Hawaiʻi.

“Michael’s leadership is nothing short of visionary,” wrote Hawaiʻi State Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Plus (LGBTQ+) Commission in a joint statement. “From shaping policy to building community, he has dedicated his life to ensuring that LGBTQ+ people in Hawaiʻi are not only protected but empowered to thrive.”

Work will be in the vicinity of Kaua‘i Christian Fellowship from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Launch window opens at 12:24 p.m. Hawai‘i Standard Time — in less than T-minus 30 minutes now — for the first crewed flight in more than 50 years to blast off on a path toward the moon.

The plan will guide future investments and actions to create safer streets for everyone who walks, drives, bikes or rides transit.

The program is tailored for established, early-stage business owners ready to take the next step in growing their food-related businesses; space is limited, so those interested are encouraged to apply early.

Hawaiʻi Mesonet and Hawaiʻi Climate Data Portal data show the accumulated rainfall throughout 14 days in March during back-to-back kona lows reached as high as 3,000% of normal historical levels for this time of year, culminating in a destructive “rain bomb” over Oʻahu.

“Denim Day is more than a symbol — it’s a collective stand,” said Kauaʻi Committee on the Status of Women member Lori Barrett in the announcement. “When our community comes together, we amplify every voice, support every survivor and send a clear message that Kaua‘i believes, stands with and uplifts one another through awareness and action.”

These grants support preservation and protection of lands with natural, environmental, recreational, scenic, cultural, agricultural and historic value, while also providing public access and strengthening partnerships between government and community-based organizations.

All ceremonies for Kaua‘i schools will be held on May 22.

The Hawaiʻi Department of Health warns that storm runoff is causing new contamination risks in the area between Lydgate Beach and Wailua Beach.

The appointments are subject to confirmation by the Hawaiʻi State Senate.

The Hawai‘i Department of Health advises beach users to stay out of the water when the water appears brown or murky, especially following storms or heavy rain.

Grants of up to $300,000 are now available for high-impact, shovel-ready projects that reduce hazardous fuels and improve wildfire safety in areas where communities and natural landscapes meet.

Kauaʻi County will observe Good Friday by closing all offices and facilities on April 3. The Kauaʻi Bus will maintain its daily schedule.

Researchers have tested new surveillance technology the detects diseases the cause mass death in whale and dolphin populations.

With more than 35 years of experience and a clear vision to strengthen community relationships and boost department morale, Rudy Tai has been ceremonially sworn in as Kauaʻi’s new chief of police.