From For Kauai Online:

A race across the sand to a Kealia lifeguard tower for a rescue tube convinced Vicki Sterne, of Beach Toolz, that her contribution to water safety was not just needed, but vital to the safety of Kaua`i’s visitors.

“I was walking down the beach meditating on whether or not to [create] this app,” she said. “When this young man runs onto the beach pointing at the ocean yelling, ‘They’re drowning! They’re drowning!’”

Up to this point, the long time resident and former concierge had thought her impulse to create an app on Kaua`i beaches somewhat ludicrous. Read the full story.

And here’s the latest in other neighbor isle gov’t and politics:

Herbicide ballistics used to combat invasive species on Kauai

HMSA opening storefront in Hilo

UH grad student to study endemic plant on Kauai

Hawaii County Leeward planners delay vote on development

Local skateboarder opens large, indoor skate park in Kapahi

Flower power — Hilo gets creative to thwart drug use at park

Retired auto dealer accepts plea deal, could avoid jail

Wilcox has state’s fastest CT scanner

Taguchi, Maui auditor, aims ‘to make a difference’

Food forestry: A growing idea on Maui

Posh homes and public access on Big Isle

Waimea’s Kahilu Theatre returning after yearlong hiatus

Community band is music to Ocean View residents’ ears

‘Savor the Sunset’ to support Lahaina Rotary’s community projects

Kauai beach courtesy justin.donnelly.

—Chad Blair