When it comes to dining in Kailua-Kona, the Big Island Grill stands out for its authentic Hawaiian plate lunches that draw crowds year-round.

In 2025, reviews highlight its generous portions perfect for fueling Big Island escapades.

Try the classic loco moco with rice, eggs, gravy, and proteins like hamburger or chicken katsu.

The super version lets you mix three for a massive meal.

Don't overlook the chicken salad sandwich, loaded with tender chicken, fresh veggies, and mayo on soft bread, sided with potato mac salad or fries.

Fridays bring the Hawaiian plate special, featuring beef, chicken, pork, fish lau lau, lomi lomi salmon, and poi for an island feast.

The spot buzzes with friendly service, though it's often packed—head there early to avoid waits.

Enjoy all-day beer, wine, or mimosas in a relaxed vibe.

Indulge in desserts like the Hawaiian mudd pie with Kona coffee ice cream, fudge, and nuts.

Nearby alternatives offer beach views and seafood tacos, reflecting Kona's fresh 2025 dining updates.

Staff happily handle veggie swaps and group needs, making it ideal for shared plates or takeout.

Overall, it's a flavorful stop that captures the fun of island eating.

In the heart of Kailua-Kona, the Marine Mammal Center Kona Hawaii, also known as Ke Kai Ola, is dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating endangered Hawaiian monk seals.

Recent efforts include caring for pups like RU28 and RU99, who arrived malnourished in August.

These interventions highlight the emotional urgency of saving a species on the brink.

Dr. Sophie Whoriskey and her team, partnering with federal agencies, have treated and released several seals this year, averting potential winter deaths.

This progress contrasts with past population declines, fostering hope for recovery.

On Hawaii Island, community volunteers monitor beaches and educate boaters to prevent harmful interactions, as seen in a case at Honokohau Harbor.

NOAA Fisheries reports ongoing births and rehabilitations, with the center providing round-the-clock care including hydration and sustainable feeding.

Amid threats like climate change, these rescues emphasize the need for funding and protections.

Locals can contribute by reporting sightings or joining volunteer programs.

2025 brings innovations like potential bird flu vaccines, inspiring pride in ocean conservation.

In the vibrant heart of Kona, Hawaii, music-infused events are weaving stronger community ties throughout 2025.

At the Keauhou Farmers Market, families dive into free activities blending creativity and live tunes.

Highlights include the October 25 pumpkin carving bash with costumed kids and spooky melodies, plus a trick-or-treat sequel on October 26.

November 8 marks the market's 20th anniversary with raffles, chocolate demos, coconut weaving, Kona coffee, and lively music.

Celebrate dads on June 14 with free drinks and island rhythms, while moms enjoy May 10 lei-making workshops amid relaxing beats.

Easter brings April 19 egg decorating fun, and November 30 offers wreath crafting under the sun.

Don't miss the August 24 mango eating contest or family photo ops on special days.

Beyond the market, the 28th Annual Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Festival in October features stars like John Keawe and Brother Noland, honoring locals.

The Kona Coffee Cultural Festival from November 1-10 immerses attendees in music and aromatic traditions.

These gatherings embody aloha, fostering connections one note at a time in our tropical paradise.

In the heart of Kona, Hawaii, a cherished cafe has anchored community life for more than 20 years.

It captivates locals and tourists alike with its genuine island vibe and fresh, local flavors.

Picture kicking off your morning with rich coffee from nearby farms, its scent evoking true Hawaiian essence.

Situated in a lively shopping area, the cafe provides ample parking and a welcoming space for quick stops or leisurely meals.

The menu shines with artisanal pastries and seasonal deli items, all sourced from the islands.

In 2025, Kailua-Kona thrives as a premier spot for global festivals, including the Ironman World Championship, mixing culture and excitement.

New ventures emerge, boosting the dynamic atmosphere while honoring the aloha spirit.

Coastal real estate buzzes, offering stunning views and convenience.

This cafe fosters connections over coffee, drinks, or wine, leaving guests feeling like family.

As the Big Island grows, such spots preserve its special bonds—come savor the tradition and energy yourself.

Nestled high on Hualalai's slopes in Holualoa, Hula Daddy Kona Coffee delivers Hawaii's finest brews from its boutique farm.

This Big Island gem shines as the most awarded Kona producer, mastering small-batch roasting for unmatched freshness in every 100% pure batch.

Guided tours invite visitors to wander vibrant fields, uncover roasting secrets, and savor samples against breathtaking ocean backdrops.

Recent wins at the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival underscore its elite status, with the 2025 event set for November 7-16, featuring tastings and cultural celebrations.

Don't miss unique merch like apparel and chocolate-dipped beans, ideal for souvenirs or home enjoyment.

Amid evolving local agriculture, Hula Daddy fosters community ties through events, blending tradition with island innovation.

For coffee enthusiasts, it's an essential stop promising lasting memories in Hawaii's heart.

FAQ: What sets Hula Daddy Kona Coffee apart?

Its award-winning small-batch methods and pure Kona beans from the farm itself.

FAQ: Can I join tours at Hula Daddy?

Absolutely, reserve spots for immersive farm walks and tastings year-round.

FAQ: How to purchase Hula Daddy products?

Buy onsite, online, or at select Big Island spots for roasts and branded goodies.

In the heart of Hawaii's Big Island, the Hawaii Island Humane Society champions animal welfare, fighting cruelty and overpopulation while nurturing human-pet bonds.

With shelters in Holualoa and Keaau, they provide vital services like adoptions, fostering, and spay/neuter programs.

The Holualoa Animal Community Center operates Friday through Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., located at 78-6767 Mamalahoa Highway.

Contact them at 808-329-1175 for details.

Keaau's facility runs Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and Tuesdays, same hours, at 16-873 Keaau Pahoa Highway.

Reach out via 808-966-5458.

Recent highlights include urgent adoption drives for long-stay dogs and successful fundraisers like the Tropical Paws gala, boosting community support.

Partnerships with national groups enhance outreach, while expansions address growing needs for stray care.

Locals can volunteer, foster kittens, or adopt—strengthening the island's compassionate network.

This society remains a lifeline, inspiring hope across the Big Island in 2025.

Healthcare pros are flocking to Kailua-Kona for the Primary Care Update conference, kicking off October 13-15, 2025.

This event at the stunning OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa offers up to 15 continuing education credits.

Dive into sessions on new drugs, asthma, diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and safe prescribing, led by expert Wendy L. Wright.

Blend learning with island vibes, from breakfast amid royal history to snorkeling in Keauhou Bay.

With the women's Ironman World Championship just wrapping up on October 11, the area buzzes with athletic energy.

Flexible options include in-person or live streaming, with rooms starting at $299.

Perfect timing for Hawaii's healthcare scene, amid local health center expansions.

FAQ: What topics are covered in the Primary Care Update conference?

Sessions tackle new drugs, asthma, COPD, diabetes, lipids, hypertension, obesity, functional bowel disorders, immunizations, and safe prescribing.

How can I register for the Primary Care Update in Kona?

Opt for in-person or live stream, with early bird deals until September 15, 2025.

What local events coincide with the Primary Care Update in October 2025?

The women's Ironman World Championship raced on October 11 in Kailua-Kona, bringing global athletes and excitement right before the conference.

Check for ongoing Ironman festivities, plus potential coffee cultural events highlighting the Big Island's heritage.

Nestled on Hawaii's Big Island along the Kona coast, Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park serves as a sacred refuge preserving ancient Hawaiian traditions.

This historic site once provided sanctuary for those breaking kapu laws, offering absolution through priestly rituals amid ocean waves.

Picture desperate fugitives seeking redemption in this haven of forgiveness.

Covering over 400 acres, it features the rebuilt Hale o Keawe temple, royal fishponds, and village ruins echoing tales of mighty chiefs.

Founded in the mid-20th century, it's a rare place where the Hawaiian flag flies alone, embodying cultural pride.

Recent highlights include the June 2025 64th anniversary festival with hula and crafts, drawing community crowds.

January's high surf led to brief closures, but quick repairs restored access to key trails.

August programs linked to the drama Chief of War merged modern narratives with heritage.

Summer youth initiatives employed local teens, nurturing future guardians of Hawaii County's mana.

Visitors explore the Great Wall, spot sea turtles, and embrace the site's serene spirit.

As South Kona grows, this park bridges eras, inviting all to honor Hawaii's vibrant legacy.

Tucked in the artistic heart of Holualoa on Hawaii's Big Island, Holualoa Garden & Kitchen offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and farm-fresh dining.

Nestled on Hualalai volcano's slopes, this open-air venue boasts lush gardens and a relaxed, tropical vibe perfect for any occasion.

Visitors love its inviting atmosphere, ideal for romantic dinners, lively gatherings, or milestone celebrations like weddings.

Recent events include vibrant ukulele nights and coffee tastings featuring local talents, drawing crowds for unforgettable experiences under the stars.

The menu highlights farm-to-table delights, such as Lilikoi sweetbread French toast and refreshing island drinks, all sourced fresh from nearby farms.

Nearby attractions enhance visits, from exploring Kona coffee plantations to thrilling sportfishing in Kailua-Kona, where anglers hook mahi mahi or marlin.

With expanded outdoor seating and sustainable initiatives, this spot embodies Hawaii's aloha spirit, making it a top choice for locals and tourists alike.

Holualoa's Central Bark Dog Park offers a vibrant spot for dogs to play freely along Mamalahoa Highway.

It features separate areas for small dogs under 25 pounds and larger breeds, ensuring safe fun for all.

Amenities include restrooms, water features like splash pads, and shaded pavilions for comfort.

Picture your pup splashing around on a sunny Hawaiian day.

The park operates Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Maintained by local animal welfare groups, it emphasizes safety with strict rules.

Dogs must be supervised, leashed until inside, and up to date on vaccinations and licenses.

No aggressive, sick, or in-heat dogs allowed; owners can bring up to three pets and must clean up promptly.

Food, treats, smoking, strollers, and bikes are prohibited to keep the focus on play.

This pet-friendly hub fosters community bonds amid Hawaii's growing neighborhoods.

Whether resident or visitor, it's a perfect escape for tails-wagging adventures in Holualoa.

Residents in Kamuela HI are thrilled about the Center For Spiritual Living's October 2025 events, emphasizing personal growth and community bonds.

This month's theme encourages reflection on yearly achievements, using spiritual practices to radiate positivity.

Join weekly Sunday services from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at a local gym, featuring uplifting talks and prayer for deeper connections.

Key sessions include The Ultimate Glow Up on October 5 with Rev Libby O'Day, focusing on inner transformation.

On October 12, explore This is Holy Land, then Inner Illumination on the 19th for enlightenment guidance.

October 26 features Offerings of Light led by Arliss Dudley Cash, in a joyful, supportive setting.

Mid-month, a forest meditation on October 15 at a state park runs 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., promoting calm and optional lunches for fellowship.

Starting October 20, a six-week online class on mental equivalents aims to boost consciousness and attract abundance.

With West Hawaii's evolving wellness scene, these gatherings offer ideal opportunities for mindful engagement and holistic development in Kamuela.

High on Hualalai's slopes, Holualoa Village embodies Hawaii's vibrant history, blending ancient traditions with modern allure in Kona's heart.

Named for holua, the thrilling ancient sport of sledding down lava hills, it once featured terraced fields of breadfruit and taro sustaining communities.

Newcomers transformed the landscape, introducing coffee by the mid-1800s, though sugar briefly dominated.

Immigrants from China, Portugal, Japan, and the Philippines enriched the culture, shifting from sugarcane work to farming, ranching, and shops.

Japanese families deeply influenced coffee farms, building lasting legacies seen in churches, cemeteries, and family stores today.

Lauhala weaving shops preserve traditions, crafting items from pandanus leaves as community anchors.

Kona's heritage corridor honors buildings over 50 years in family hands.

In 2025, events like coffee strolls, art galleries in old mills, and informal meetups buzz with energy, drawing locals and visitors.

Real estate grows as people seek this multicultural haven, where history meets serene living.

Holualoa bridges past thrills with today's innovations, inviting exploration of its enduring bounty.

For more than 25 years, Kona Coffee And Tea Company Hawaii has produced top-tier brews from their family-owned farm in Holualoa.

Perched on the fertile slopes of Mount Hualalai, the farm offers stunning views of Kailua-Kona on Hawaii's Big Island.

Guests enjoy hands-on tours showcasing the art of cultivating 100% Kona coffee in a vibrant agroforest setting.

This immersive experience highlights the dedication and rich heritage behind every bean.

In central Kailua-Kona, their lively cafe serves fresh small-batch roasts to locals and visitors alike.

Open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, it fosters community connections over aromatic cups.

Spotlight on 2025: The Kona Coffee Cultural Festival features farm tours, tastings, and cultural events celebrating local traditions.

The company hosts educational brewing sessions amid the festivities, drawing crowds to the Big Island.

With rising real estate buzz in Kailua-Kona, more explorers are discovering this coffee gem.

Committed to sustainability, the family ensures ethical practices in every harvest.

Subscribe online for home deliveries, capturing Hawaii's essence anywhere.

From tours to cafe vibes, it embodies the aloha spirit central to Big Island life.

Upcoming expansions and partnerships promise to boost its place in Hawaii's dynamic coffee world.

Whether local or traveler, it's a gateway to the island's heart through every sip.

In the vibrant heart of Hawaii's Big Island, the Hawaii Island Humane Society stands as a pillar of compassion since 1965.

Community programs are thriving, combating animal cruelty and overpopulation while strengthening bonds between pets and people.

With centers in Keaau and Kona, they offer tailored services like education on responsible ownership and urgent adoption drives.

Heartwarming stories emerge, such as seven loyal dogs finding homes after over a year in shelter care.

Volunteering is open to all, from kids as young as eight with supervision, involving fun tasks like socializing animals or assisting operations.

Fostering programs provide temporary homes for needy neonates, complete with supplies and training to ease shelter strains.

In March 2025, awareness surges amid capacity issues, boosted by partnerships with Best Friends Animal Society.

Locals can join lively events like costume contests and walks, raising funds and awareness on pet overpopulation.

For animal control, they collaborate with Hawaii County agencies to reunite lost pets and address strays.

Big Island residents, dive in—donate, foster, or volunteer to create lasting impacts in our paradise.

Puna Chocolate Company in Kailua-Kona delights with 100% Hawaiian-grown cacao, crafting pure, flavorful bars from local beans.

Founders Adam Potter and Ben Vanegtern, former military buddies, turned their paradise farming dream into a sustainable venture.

They focus on rainforest protection and community support, partnering for reforestation to preserve the islands' lush landscapes.

At their Pawai Place spot, visitors enjoy hand-crafted chocolates, specialty coffees, and inventive cocktails in a cozy lounge.

Nearby in Kainaliu, Hale Cocoa offers interactive farm tours through cacao groves, highlighting eco-friendly practices and bean-to-bar tastings.

Events like spirits pairings and demonstrations draw locals and tourists, boosting mindful tourism on the Big Island.

Hawaiian chocolate's unique volcanic soil flavors set it apart, with options for all, including craft brews and teas.

As 2025 brings new innovations, this company weaves flavor, heritage, and stewardship into every bite, inviting all to savor and support Hawaii's essence.

In the vibrant heart of Kona, Hawaii, ancient Hawaiian customs intertwine with the island's legendary coffee heritage, creating a rich cultural tapestry.

Daily life once centered on spiritual beliefs that influenced farming and community bonds, now echoed in sustainable practices on volcanic slopes.

Kona coffee farms honor the land's mana through generational harvesting methods, thriving in nutrient-rich soil reminiscent of historic ahupuaa divisions.

Local beaches with shifting sands symbolize nature's unpredictability, inspiring resilient adaptations in seasonal coffee picking.

The Hawaiian language adds poetic depth, infusing every cup with aloha and warmth.

Ancient petroglyphs near coastal towns depict abundance, paralleling today's bountiful harvests and fueling innovative traditions.

Historic bays like Kealakekua mark early encounters that introduced coffee, now celebrated in snorkeling spots and cultural events.

The 54th Annual Kona Coffee Cultural Festival, slated for November 2025, promises tastings, tours, and showcases blending lantern parades with farm visits.

A Mountain View coffee shop recently earned national acclaim, highlighting Hawaii's brewing excellence amid 200 years of history from Brazilian roots.

New eco-friendly roasteries emphasize hand-picking and sun-drying, while real estate booms near estates draw culture enthusiasts.

Customs rooted in respect for the aina guide production, though climate challenges spur adaptations from ancestral wisdom.

Festivals offer petroglyph art workshops and language sessions, linking coffee to broader traditions.

As Kona evolves, these customs pulse with aloha, inviting all to savor history in every sip.

As autumn arrives, the Big Island buzzes with events blending Hawaiian culture and community vibes.

From Kailua-Kona to Hilo, these gatherings draw crowds eager for authentic experiences.

The Kupuna Hula Festival features elder dancers performing under the stars, paired with vibrant craft fairs.

It's a touching tribute to timeless traditions that captivates all ages.

In Waimea, the Paniolo Festival honors cowboy heritage through parades, tales, and savory barbecues.

This event transports attendees to the island's rugged ranching history, far from sandy shores.

Hilo's Queen Liliuokalani Birthday Celebration offers music, lei workshops, and royal homages in scenic gardens.

Thrilling outrigger races in Kona start the season, while charity events like the Run for Hope aid cancer causes with family fun.

Recent gems include the Hala Festival and Volcano Renaissance Faire, infusing unique energy.

These Big Island happenings foster connections and cherished memories through aloha spirit.

FAQ: What Big Island events happen in September? Highlights feature hula fests, paniolo parades, and royal tributes.

Where to experience Big Island culture? Head to Kona, Waimea, or Hilo for immersive festivals.

How do these events preserve heritage? Via dances, stories, and activities celebrating Hawaii's rich past.

As a local journalist exploring Big Island's vibrant scene, the excitement around Leilani's Bakery in Kona, Hawaii, is truly captivating.

This beloved spot delights with fresh bagels and ube coffee cake, embodying the island's fresh flavors.

In Kailua-Kona's dynamic food landscape, Leilani's shines by using locally sourced ingredients for irresistible artisan goodies.

Imagine enjoying gourmet sandwiches or craft spirits at nearby gems, all amid a strong community vibe.

The atmosphere buzzes, especially with additions like the expanded Kona Skatepark uniting families.

Recent news highlights Leilani's Bakery Kona Hawaii partnering in events such as Food Truck Fridays, blending baked delights with smoked meats and seaside tapas.

Community volunteers have enhanced local parks, creating perfect spots for post-bakery relaxation.

This trend emphasizes sustainable, family-owned businesses fostering deeper neighborhood ties.

In 2025, with events like the IRONMAN World Championships boosting energy, the bakery powers both athletes and residents.

From eatery renovations to tastings of island liquors, Kailua-Kona invites exploration.

The area glows with these tasty innovations, celebrating what makes Hawaii life unforgettable.

Drop by to experience the aloha—it's the heart of our island community.

In the heart of Hawaii Island, the Hawaii Island Humane Society champions animal welfare this March 2025.

Established in 1965, this nonprofit prevents cruelty and nurtures pet-human bonds through facilities in Keaau and Kona's advanced Animal Community Center.

Shelters face overcrowding crises, with daily animal influxes prompting urgent calls for adoptions and fostering, especially amid kitten seasons.

Residents are encouraged to provide loving homes, easing resource strains and highlighting long-term residents like dogs waiting over a year.

Excitement builds for October's Pet Walk, a festive fundraiser with costumes, vendors, and community walks supporting vital programs.

Operations shift as county handles animal control, freeing the society for welfare, education, and a planned full-service hospital in Kona.

Youth opportunities shine with March applications for a teen leadership council, fostering advocacy through hands-on projects.

Partnerships and fundraisers, including first-responder calendars, boost adoption drives and volunteer efforts island-wide.

Volunteers rescue kittens and educate on responsible ownership, combating pet overpopulation.

Heartwarming stories of rehabilitation inspire action, urging locals to donate, volunteer, or attend events for a compassionate community.

Together, we can end pet homelessness and strengthen bonds across Hawaii Island.

Life in Kona, Hawaii, thrives on a vibrant mix of island charm and modern vitality.

Residents and visitors enjoy sunny shores and community spirit.

Kona shines as a center for sustainable fashion, with Holualoa shops offering eco-friendly hats and jewelry that blend beach casual with elegant style.

Local eateries feature simple delights like whipped ricotta with roasted tomatoes, fostering family connections.

Sharing meals sparks heartfelt conversations, embodying coastal joy.

Hawaiian talents, from Oahu models on global runways to Honolulu stars in Kona, inspire with their confidence and cultural roots.

The 2025 IRONMAN World Championships draw athletes through lava fields, fueled by aloha cheers.

Community updates like the General Plan 2040 prioritize sustainable growth with public input.

New eco-friendly resorts on the Kohala Coast harmonize luxury with preservation.

Youth programs, soccer leagues, and events like Queen Liliuokalani Outrigger Races build unity.

Arts galleries and wellness centers enrich the scene, alongside spots like Four Seasons Resort Hualalai.

Kona's lifestyle evolves, merging tradition, innovation, and natural beauty for all to embrace.

In the vibrant heart of Kona, Hawaii, local businesses blend tradition with fresh energy in 2025.

The iconic Kimura Lauhala Shop offers handwoven treasures from natural fibers, open midweek and Saturdays for authentic island gifts.

Nearby, the Dovetail Gallery captivates with contemporary woodworking by designer Gerald Ben, showcasing modern pieces infused with Hawaiian flair.

While the Holualoa Ukulele Gallery has closed, spots like the Kona Art Gallery thrive with indigenous crafts, from painted drums to unique jewelry.

New additions include a botanical boutique brimming with plants and decor, plus wellness centers offering acupuncture and yoga.

Culinary gems like historic coffeehouses and organic bakeries serve up Kona's finest brews and treats.

Family farms invite tours for award-winning coffee and macadamia nuts, enhancing the area's farm-to-table appeal.

Exciting events, such as the Queen Lili'uokalani Outrigger Races and Run for Hope, boost community spirit and tourism.

Amid closures and growth, Kona's resilient enterprises embody Hawaii's enduring aloha.

In the vibrant community of Kona, Hawaii, animal adoption programs are thriving, offering families a chance to welcome loving pets into their homes.

Dogs, cats, and rabbits are available, all spayed or neutered, microchipped, and vaccinated for a smooth transition.

Hawaii Island Humane Society leads these efforts, caring for thousands of animals each year amid shelter overcrowding.

This dedication highlights a community committed to animal welfare and reducing homelessness.

Excitement builds for the October 25 walkathon, featuring pet-friendly activities, vendors, and costume contests to boost adoptions.

Similar events on the Big Island encourage local involvement in Kona.

With facilities at capacity, fostering or adopting is crucial to make space for more arrivals.

Beyond events, visit adoption centers for real-time pet profiles and on-site applications.

For those not ready to adopt, sponsoring provides essential support for food, medical care, and enrichment.

New rescues and programs across the island focus on rehabilitation, education, and low-cost services.

Community leaders urge residents to volunteer or foster, fostering stronger human-animal bonds.

By adopting, you create joy and contribute to a compassionate cycle in Hawaii's stunning landscapes.

Discover the vibrant allure of Kona, Hawaii in 2025, where volcanic landscapes meet pristine beaches on the Big Island's sunny west coast.

This year promises excitement with the IRONMAN World Championships in October and the Kona Marathon in June, drawing athletes and spectators alike.

Dive into thrilling adventures like nighttime manta ray snorkeling or exploring Kealakekua Bay's vibrant reefs.

Savor world-famous Kona coffee at local farms, and join the 2025 Kona Coffee Cultural Festival for a taste of island heritage.

Uncover history at Pu’uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park, with ancient temples and sacred fishponds.

Relax on beaches like Manini’owali, spot turtles, or hike lava fields at Kekaha Kai State Park.

Stroll Kailua-Kona's lively streets for shopping, fresh markets, and craft brews at spots like Ola Brew Co.

Experience cultural gems like outrigger canoe paddling, whale watching, or a starlit luau feast.

For a unique twist, tour vanilla farms, sea salt producers, or seahorse sanctuaries.

Plan a week-long stay to soak in the aloha spirit, with year-round warmth peaking in summer months.

Kona's blend of adrenaline and serenity makes it an unforgettable paradise for all travelers.

The Kealakehe High School girls volleyball team has opened their 2025 season with determination, facing strong competition in the Big Island Interscholastic Federation.

Despite early defeats, including a hard-fought home match against Konawaena High School on August 13, the Waveriders are showing resilience and a renewed focus on teamwork.

Head Coach Mervlyn Simmons stresses learning from each match, aiming to boost defensive coordination and offensive play.

Players like senior captain Mahie Bailey remain optimistic, believing tough early opponents will fuel the team’s growth and confidence.

Upcoming games against Hawaii Preparatory Academy and Honoka'a High School will provide more chances for the team to build momentum.

With steadfast community support, the Waveriders are committed to developing as a cohesive unit and making their fans proud.

Focus stays firmly on progress, unity, and the drive for future success as the season unfolds.

Pancho & Lefty’s Cantina & Restaurante in Kailua-Kona has reopened after passing a comprehensive follow-up inspection by the Hawaii Department of Health Food Safety Branch on August 12.

The restaurant, located on Alii Drive, received a green “pass” placard, confirming full compliance with health regulations.

Officials verified corrective actions had resolved serious food safety violations discovered just days earlier, which included cockroach infestations, unclean food-contact surfaces, and inadequate handwashing facilities.

Proper food storage, thorough disinfection, pest control, and employee retraining were mandated before reopening.

Pancho & Lefty’s is now welcoming customers back, highlighting the Department of Health’s ongoing commitment to protect the health of residents and visitors.

Meanwhile, Kailua-Kona’s business landscape is evolving, with the Hampton Inn Kailua-Kona Bay set to debut in summer 2025 and Niumalu Marketplace expanding its offerings, reflecting the area’s dynamic growth.