Neighbor Island briefs

Advertiser Staff

Big Island suspect charged in beating

Big Island police have charged Dion J. Alvarez, 18, in the Dec. 23 beating of a 29-year-old man found unconscious on a sidewalk on 'Ohai Street.

Alvarez was arrested at his 'Ohai Street home Wednesday after the CrimeStoppers line received a tip.

Police charged him with the attempted murder of Franklin Matias. Alvarez is being held without bail at the Hilo police cellblock.

Kona theater group names executive

KAILUA, Hawai'i — An Indiana woman with a background in marketing has been named executive director of the Kona Association for the Performing Arts.

Association president Elizabeth Smith said Leanne M. Pletcher will direct the group's efforts to promote and produce theater productions and educational programs.

The group is planning a performing arts center on 15 donated acres located off Queen Ka'ahumanu State Highway, north of Kailua village.

Pletcher holds degrees in marketing from the University of Massachusetts-Amherst and Notre Dame.

She previously was director of communications for Holy Cross Resources, a nonprofit health-care firm in South Bend, Ind.

Kaua'i councilman to run for Senate

LIHU'E, Kaua'i — County Councilman Gary Hooser has announced he will run for the state Senate seat held by Sen. Jonathan Chun.

Hooser, a Democrat who has served two two-year terms on the council, will face Chun in the primary.

No Republican has announced a candidacy.

Under reapportionment, the Senate seat will represent all of Kaua'i County.