The National Weather Service says the current El Nino weather pattern will continue to bring dry conditions to the Big Island as it gradually weakens by summer. According to data released by the “Hawaii Tribune-Herald”, rainfall for Hawaii Island has fallen off since December with most rain gauges recording barely half their normal seasonal totals. Those on catchment systems are urged to call water haulers early, since orders are backing up.
Following ten years of effort, Hawaii Island state representative Bob Herkes has succeeded in getting $350,000 to purchase a medical van for Ka’u and South Kona. Herkes tells the “Hawaii Tribune-Herald” that he has secured the help of the Hawaii Medical Services Association Foundation to fund mobile van operations for the next two years. The van will provide basic medical services to rural areas, inoculations to schools, and, if needed, emergency care in case of emergencies.
After more than a month of effort, Hawaii Island fire crews, volunteers, and personnel fromt he Kamehameha Schools/Bishop Estate have surrounded an 1,800 acre brush fire above the Kealakekua Ranch Center. Fire Chief Darryl Oliveira said fire fighters will be leaving the scene following the establishment of a secure firebreak and successful mop-up operations at the fire site. In a broadcast message on Friday, Oliveira said the burn area will be monitored by the Kamehameha Schools/Bishop Estate.
Twenty-four year old Jose . Garcia of Kailua-Kona is being held on a variety of drug related offenses following the execution of a search warrant at a Kanaka Street home. According to the “Hawaii Tribune-Herald”, police found powdered cocaine, crystal methamphetamine, hashish, dried marijuana, and 24 marijuana plants at the house. Bail for Garcia has be set at $64,000.
Starting Monday, February 1st, the Department of Land and Natural Resources will begin construction to replace the drinking water system at Wailoa River State Recreation Area. The project will replace the water main from Manono Street into the park, connecting with waterlines to the comfort station, three rental pavilions, faucets, and a new accessible drinking fountain. Interim water service and portable toilets will be provided if needed. Work should be done by August.
BIIF Soccer Championships. In boys soccer competition, Kealakehe defeated Hilo, 2-1, to take the Division I championship. In Division II, Honokaa edged Christian Liberty, 2-1, to take the Divsion II title. In girls soccer play, Hilo defeated Hilo, 1-0, to take the Division I girls BIIF soccer title. In Division II, Hawaii Preparatory Academy shut out Honokaa, 1-0, to take the championship. The JN Automotive Group D-I and D-II state girls soccer championships will be played Wednesday through Saturday, February 3-6 at the Waipio Pennisula Soccer Complex on Oahu. The 12-team boys state soccer tournament takes place February 10-13 at Oahu’s Waipio Penninsula Soccer Complez.
Notice to motorists: Teh Department of Water Supply wil be closing Waianuenue Avenue (Hilo) between Waiau Street and Pi’ikea Street for the purpose of installing waterlines. This installation wil occur from Tuesday, February 2 until Friday, February 19, weather permitting, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. For details, call 961-8070, extension 248.
Notice to motorists: There will be pavement marking and signage installation along the Queen Kaahumanu Highway (Kailua-Kona) from Monday, February 1, through Friday, February 5, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The affected area runs from Lako Street to Henry Street. One lane of traffic will be open at all times.
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