By local and wire sources
Tourist recovering after near-drowning
A male tourist is “recovering” at Kona Community Hospital after nearly drowning in the ocean Sunday at Laaloa Beach Park, also known as Magic Sands, according to Keauhou Fire Station firefighters.
Lifeguards first responded to the 12:45 p.m. report of an unresponsive man floating in the ocean and pulled him out of the water. They placed him in full spinal precautions and performed CPR. He was “semi-conscious” when Keauhou Fire Station rescue personnel transported him by ambulance to the hospital.
The man may have a possible spinal injury from body surfing, according to the Fire Department.
The man’s name, age and place of residence has not been released. Further information was unavailable as of 5 p.m. Sunday.
Strong winds whip Big Island summits
The National Weather Service’s Honolulu Forecast Office is predicting 30 to 40 mph west to southwest winds on Big Island summits, with gusts up to 50 mph, until Tuesday evening.
A wind advisory is in effect and motorists in the affected areas are asked to drive carefully. Winds this strong can bring down tree branches and make driving difficult, especially for high profile vehicles, forecasters said.
For more information, visit www.prh.noaa.gov/hnl.
High surf in East Hawaii
Big waves on the Big Island’s east-facing shores are expected through Tuesday, giving surfers some spectacular rides and delighting wave watchers.
The National Weather Service’s Honolulu Forecast Office has issued a high surf warning until at least 6 a.m. Tuesday because of surf anticipated to build up to 10 to 15 feet along the affected coastlines.
A large north-northwest swell was expected to gradually shift to the north-northeast Sunday evening and Monday, as well as persist into Tuesday. Battering waves will pound the island’s east-facing shores, resulting in very dangerous swimming conditions and deadly rip currents.
For more information, visit www.prh.noaa.gov/hnl.
Experts to talk about transforming Hawaii’s health care
HONOLULU — Innovative health care experts will share their thoughts on transforming Hawaii’s health care system on Wednesday.
Gov. Neil Abercrombie will kick off the event by discussing his health care priorities. The program also features three mainland speakers.
Registered nurse Denise Levis Hewson is the Director of Clinical Programs and Quality Improvement for Community Care of North Carolina, a Medicaid “medical home” that serves more than 1 million clients.
Dr. Craig Jones is the Director of the Vermont Blueprint for Health, a chronic care initiative established by the state of Vermont.
Aaron McKethan is the Vice President for Strategy for RxAnte, a health information technology company that focuses on medication adherence.
The event will be held in the state Capitol auditorium from 8:30 a.m. to noon. It is open to the public.
By local and wire sources