Stories by Bethany Freudenthal

Lihue ready for revamped look

For many, Lihue is the heart of Kauai, and the Rice Street revitalization project is something to be excited about. “Our county government is here, our state government is here, our airport is here, our institute for higher learning is here in the Lihue District,” said Pat Griffin, Lihue Business Association president. “Our harbor is here in Nawiliwili, which is part of the Lihue District.”

Kauai Springs fight ongoing

After Hurricane Iniki in 1992, Jim Satterfield saw there was no water left on Kauai. That’s when he got the idea to start bottling Kauai water. “Let the people have their own water and then you’re going to keep all the plastic from piling up in the landfill,” Satterfield told The Garden Island.

Invalidated

The Hawaii Supreme Court on Friday invalidated a ballot question asking voters if they want to amend the Hawaii Constitution to allow the state to tax property in support of public education.

‘I’m a survivor’

This year across Hawaii, five women and one man have died as a result of domestic violence. They were remembered Wednesday at the YWCA’s annual candlelight vigil.

YWCA to host candlelight vigil tonight

Desiree Duclayan, 51, has been married twice. Both were abusive, but it wasn’t until someone witnessed an abusive moment during her second marriage and called the police, that she got help.

Smoke-free and loving it

While those caught using tobacco products at two county parks can now face fines, the tobacco-free status is more about changing society’s views than issuing citations.

Hula dancer claims harassment

A Kauai hula dancer has filed a lawsuit against a restaurant and hotel, stating she was retaliated against on the basis of her sex and for reporting sexual harassment and the failure to protect her from sexual harassment.

Teachers say schools need more funds

With the election less than a month away, Hawaii voters will be deciding on a constitutional amendment that would add a surcharge on investment property to help fund public education.

Job-seekers’ market

Luana Carreira of Kapahi is looking for work. “I’m looking for anything in the hospitality or food industry,” she said. Carreira said potential employers should hire her because she’s friendly and outgoing, excels in customer service and has the aloha spirit.

Suit: Female employees recorded in locker room

Former female employees of the Kauai Marriott Resort & Beach Club in Lihue have filed a lawsuit in Fifth Circuit Court against the hotel conglomerate, alleging a fellow employee recorded them using thebathroom and changing clothes in the female locker room.

Man gets 35 years for assaults

A man who sexually assaulted two women and a female child in December was sentenced to 35 years in prison in Fifth Circuit Court Wednesday.

Retrial sought in theft case

A man recently found guilty of theft charges could soon be facing a new jury due to alleged prejudiced statements made in the jury room during deliberations.

Investigation continues into fatal hit-and-run

Kauai police are continuing to investigate the death of 24-year-old Florentino Maipi, of Eleele, who was killed while walking on Halewili Road in Kalaheo last week. Investigators are asking the public for assistance.

Dismissal sought in murder case

The attorney for the man accused in the slaying of his elderly landlord asked the Fifth Circuit Court Tuesday to dismiss the case on grounds that she has not yet received all of the evidence against her client.

Ready to be counted

Proving it’s never too late to start voting, 62-year-old Gary Komers registered to vote for the first time Monday.

Get out and vote, Kauai

In little over a month, Kauai voters will head to the polls to vote on a new mayor, a new County Council, several charter amendments and two state constitutional amendments.

Galas goes before parole board

A man sentenced to 10 years in prison after pleading no contest on an charge of assault in the first-degree in connection with the 2006 strangulation death of his estranged wife will soon find out if he will be eligible for early release.