400 U.S. POW remains disinterred in ID project, Memorial Day commemorated with floating lanterns, Councilwoman Kierkiewicz to head Big Island public TV station, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

After 80 years, project underway to identify POWs killed in ‘hellship’ attack. At the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific at Punchbowl, the Defense Department is disinterring more than 400 sets of remains of American service members who died during WWII.  Hawaii News Now.

Officials and veterans gather at Punchbowl. City and military officials gathered with local veterans and their families for a Monday morning ceremony at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Punchbowl Crater. The Memorial Day service took place amid a tide of simmering geopolitical tensions around the world, something speakers at the ceremony weren’t shy to acknowledge. Star-Advertiser.

Governor aids woman with seizure during Memorial Day ceremony. Just as the 111th Army Band of the Hawaii Army National Guard began a musical interlude Monday during the Governor’s Memorial Day Ceremony, Gov. Josh Green jumped off the stage to assist a woman who suffered a seizure. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Floating lantern ceremony draws 45,000. After three years off due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Shinnyo floating lantern ceremony came back strong Monday, setting the waters off Ala Moana Regional Park alight with thousands of flickering memorials. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.  KITV4.

Residents ask congressional delegation to ‘step up’ amid shooting range dispute.  A vocal group of Ewa Beach residents is vowing to take their fight to relocate a military shooting range to federal lawmakers. Hawaii News Now.

Makaha crash trial for HPD officers is delayed.  Four HPD officers charged in connection with an alleged September 2021 car chase, crash and cover-up had their trial put off against the objection of city prosecutors until Aug. 21, according to state court records. Star-Advertiser.

The North Shore Hasn’t Had A Public Pool For Decades. It May Finally Be Getting One. Half of Hawaii's kids can't swim, and pools are less likely to be located near lower income communities. Civil Beat.

Ban on outside work for City Council proposed. Two Honolulu City Council leaders have put forward two pieces of legislation that, if approved, would both strictly prohibit any outside employment or financial gain beyond an elective Council seat. Star-Advertiser.

Public comment sought on surfboard storage for Kuhio Beach Park. The city is seeking public input to determine the next location for a Waikiki public surfboard storage site, which has been closed since the fall of 2021 when a two-alarm fire wiped out a Kuhio Beach Park location for the second time in less than two years. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Kierkiewicz Named President, CEO of Nā Leo ‘O Hawai‘i.  Ashley Kierkiewicz, a Hawaiʻi County Councilmember, will start effective June 19,  while continuing to serve on the County Council, where she represents the Puna district. Big Island Video News.

 Puna Is The Fastest Growing Place In Hawaii. But It Comes With A Catch. Plagued by poverty, poor infrastructure, volcanic eruptions and crime, the windward region still attracts a broad spectrum of people looking for their own slice of paradise. Civil Beat.

Man charged after dog attack on Big Isle injures 2.  A 32-year-old woman suffered fractures and multiple puncture wounds to both arms Saturday when a dog attacked her in Pahoa, the Hawaii Police Department said. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald.  Big Island Video News. Big Island Now. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.

Maui

On Maui, a pledge never to forget those lost in the ‘Forgotten War’ .  Keynote speaker Brigadier General Walter R. Ross Jr. and Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen reiterated that Memorial Day is far more than just a holiday.  Hawaii News Now.

3 East Maui meetings to discuss Alelele Point road closure; slope stabilization to start soon. The County of Maui will hold three community meetings for residents and businesses impacted by the emergency road closure at the Alelele Point area in East Maui.  Maui Now. KHON2.

Kauai

This Kauai Neighborhood Is A Celebrated Cell Phone Dead Zone. AT&T Wants To Change That. Residents of Kauai's north shore are overwhelmingly opposed to a plan to build a cell tower on a residential lot in Haena. Civil Beat.

Kaua‘i jobless rate drops to 2.6 percent in April. The unemployment rate in the County of Kaua‘i dropped to its lowest level since the pre-pandemic era, as multiple sectors of the economy added jobs last month ahead of the summer season. Garden Island.

Kauaʻi health office conducting survey about emergency preparedness, pandemic impacts.  The Kaua‘i District Health Office will conduct a Community Assessment for Public Health Emergency Response survey known as CASPER to assess the emergency preparedness level and current wellbeing of Kauaʻi households. Kauai Now.



 

More Native Hawaiians becoming doctors, TSA allows cannabis product on flights, Honolulu police $10M over OT budget, Kauai tackles vacation rentals, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Man sets flags at Punchbowl cemetery PC: Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam

Remembrance at Punchbowl on Memorial Day. Punchbowl cemetery was awash in more than 35,000 small and large American flags Monday as Memorial Day and the sacrifices made by American service members across the decades were observed amid a series of auspicious anniversaries coming closely together. Star-Advertiser.Star-Advertiser.

Where Hawaii’s Chronic Teacher Shortage Hits Hardest. Students at rural or lower-income schools are less likely to be taught by experienced, fully qualified teachers than elsewhere, DOE data shows. Civil Beat.

Number of UH minority medical school graduates reaches record. The University of Hawaii has seen a record number of minority medical student graduates despite low numbers of Native Hawaiians and Filipinos in college. Star-Advertiser.

More terminally ill are requesting lethal drugs under the new law. Since Jan. 1, when medically assisted death became legal in Hawaii, at least 17 patients have requested lethal drugs to end their lives and at least three of them went on to use the medication to “have a peaceful death.” Star-Advertiser.

TSA now allowing a cannabis product on flights. TSA updated passenger guidelines after the Food and Drug Administration approved a drug containing cannabidiol or CBD used by children with epilepsy. KITV.

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Hawaii’s slow-growth economy is expected to continue. In what is becoming a recurring theme in local economists’ quarterly reports, the state’s economy is projected to keep inching forward with its gross domestic product — the total value of the state’s goods and services — growing from 1.2% to 1.4% annually over the next four years, according to a new economic forecast by the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. Star-Advertiser.

Economist: Overtourism And Crowding Is A Pricing Problem. The number of tourists coming to Hawai'i has grown in the past three decades, but their spending in real dollars has remained the same. Hawaii Public Radio.

Good and bad signs for Hawaii's economy. Home sales are down. New vehicle sales are down. And bankruptcies are up. The state's chief economist says there is no recession just around the corner -- but not all economists agree. KHON2.

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NTSB calls for safety improvements to rules following Kailua helicopter crash. Following three fatal crashes in the past month, including a helicopter crash in Kailua, the National Transportation Safety Board is calling for greater safety measures to the federal regulations covering them. Star-Advertiser.

Pet dogs trained to detect invasive species in Hawaii's forests. The fight to save endangered species in Hawaii is gaining more ammunition. KITV.

Oahu

Honolulu Police Department seeks $10M transfer to fund overtime. The City Council Budget Committee last week gave tentative approval to a Honolulu Police Department request to transfer $10.25 million to cover salaries and wages during the last six weeks of the fiscal year due to unanticipated expenses. Star-Advertiser.

Hotel workers union reaches tentative deal with Hilton Hawaiian Village. The tentative deal is for a four-year union contract that reportedly covers some 1,800 workers. Hawaii News Now.

Completed questionnaires offer insight into prospective jurors for Kealoha trial. Many of the 413 prospective jurors for the Kealoha mailbox trial didn’t hold back when filling out questionnaires aimed at determining whether they could serve. Hawaii News Now.

Arbitrator asked to rule on private Kakaako road fines. Two brothers who created a public uproar over control of several streets they own in Kakaako are not bowing to the state’s attempt to impose a $250,000 fine over the issue. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu woman's campaign to clear-out Honolulu homeless comes with bus ticket to Waianae encampment and criticism. She posted her plan on Facebook. KITV.

Former BWS employee says automated meter reading system is bogus. Back in 2000, the Honolulu Board of Water Supply paid $30 million for an automated meter reading system to help it measure the monthly water use of its 170,000 residential and business customers. Hawaii News Now.

Nearly 1,000 beachgoers stung as jellyfish invasion keeps Oahu lifeguards busyNearly 1,000 people were stung today by box jellyfish at five beaches on Oahu’s south, west and north shores, city Department of Emergency Services officials said. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Thirty Meter Telescope Hearing Set For Storm Water Discharge Permit. The hearing on the NPDES application and draft permit to discharge storm water associated with construction activities from the TMT will be heard in Kona on Tuesday, June 25. Big Island Video News.

Video shows PTA public meeting. Protecting Native Hawaiian archaeology from Pohakuloa Training Area bombing exercises was top of mind for those attending a May 16 annual meeting with PTA officials, according to video footage provided by a participant. West Hawaii Today.

500 Kamehameha parcels to be checked for cesspools. Kamehameha Schools has conducted an assessment of its properties statewide in efforts to identify, and subsequently close, any large-capacity cesspools. Tribune-Herald.

Beach Created By Volcanic Eruption Was Born Polluted. You might think a brand new black sand beach would be pristine. But microplastics have already been detected at Pohoiki in Lower Puna. Civil Beat.

Kahaluu Ma Kai slated for completion in 2020. Every day, a historic plot of oceanfront aina is regaining more of its natural ambiance. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Kanaha Beach Park Closure for Cleanup, May 29-31. Kanaha Beach Park in Kahului will be closed from 8 p.m. Wednesday, May 29, to 2:30 p.m. Friday, May 31, for park maintenance, repairs and cleanup. Maui Now.

Maui Liquor License Renewals Due June 15. The Department of Liquor Control is reminding liquor license holders that license renewal applications for the 2019-2020 fiscal year are due by 4:30 p.m. on June 15, 2019. Maui Now.

Homegrown Teachers Are The Norm At Molokai High. The school defies Hawaii’s revolving door of teachers at many isolated schools, with the vast majority staying more than five years. Civil Beat.

Kauai

County cracks down on illegal TVRs. The Kauai County Council on Wednesday will hear public testimony on a bill aimed at helping the county shut down illegal vacation rental homes. Garden Island.

Kauai beach reopens after whale carcass, 30K pound head removed. The sperm whale carcass that washed ashore in Kealia over the weekend is now gone. Hawaii News Now.

Saving Kauai’s rare birds. Hiking through the sheer ridges and native forests of the world’s highest wetland, Justin Hite spends his time looking and listening for Kauai’s endangered forest birds. Garden Island.

Molokai

Homegrown Teachers Are The Norm At Molokai High. The school defies Hawaii’s revolving door of teachers at many isolated schools, with the vast majority staying more than five years. Civil Beat.

Ige, lawmakers face awkward reunion, Honolulu unveils homeless hygiene center, illegal Maui vacation rentals face $20k fine, Bill Gates' toilet could eliminate cesspool problems, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. David Ige with Sen. Mazie Hirono, Mayor Harry Kim ©2018 All Hawaii News

Did Hawaii Lawmakers Poison Their Relationship With Gov. Ige? Top legislative leaders, in a rare move, opposed fellow Democrat David Ige and raised money for his opponent in the primary. Civil Beat.

Leaders dismiss warnings. Staff at the Department of Land and Natural Resources in 2012 and 2013 warned top managers within the Land Division that its month-to-month property rental program needed major fixes. Star-Advertiser.

Hirono Files Suit Against Trump Over Appointment of Acting AG. The Hawaii senator joined two Senate Democrats in the action, which argues Matthew Whitaker’s appointment is unconstitutional. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Leaders Push to Double Food Production by 2020. Leaders hope big agriculture investment from Costco and tech moguls will boost the islands’ food self-sufficiency, but farmers are wary. U.S. News.

Bill Gates wants to bring a new kind of technology to Hawaii: The reinvented toilet. Hawaii environmental leaders say billionaire Bill Gates wants to help Hawaii in its quest to eliminate cesspools. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii hotel workers slated to remain on strike through Thanksgiving. Some 2,700 Hawaii hotel workers are expected to remain on strike through the Thanksgiving holiday. Hawaii News Now.

Kyo-ya says Local 5 workers union rejects highest wage offer nationwide. Kyo-ya Hotels and Resorts said Monday that the Unite Here Local 5 Union has rejected its latest offer, “which would have been the largest increase in compensation for any of the striking markets nationwide.” Pacific Business News.

Oahu

The city Monday announced it will open a shower and toilet hygiene center on the ground floor of its latest facility to address homelessness — a building in Iwilei that will offer more services than anywhere else in the country, according to Councilman Joey Manahan. Star-Advertiser.

Construction underway in Iwilei for largest hygiene center in the nation. The center, which will serve Honolulu’s homeless population, will be on the first floor of a four-story building in Kuwili Street and will have showers, laundry services, kennels, a mail service and even a bed bug-zapping machine. Hawaii News Now.

The City and County of Honolulu unveiled what it calls the biggest homeless hygiene center in the nation today. Hawaii Public Radio.

City unveils rest stop center for homeless. KHON2.

City shows off Iwilei hygiene center. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell showcased a city facility aimed at getting homeless residents off the streets. KITV.

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The Liliha Public Library will be closed for major renovations starting Saturday, November 24, 2018. KITV

Kakaako Roads Worsen As Ownership Battle Continues. There are roads across the state that are in limbo because no one can agree who owns them. A  drawn-out legal battle over disputed roads in Kakaako has taken a turn and has some questioning why it's taken so long to resolve. Hawaii Public Radio.

New $20.4M visitor center to be built at Punchbowl. A multi-million dollar visitor center is in the works at the Punchbowl National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific. Hawaii News Now.

New $20M visitor center planned for Punchbowl Memorial. The National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific at Punchbowl will receive $20.4 million for the construction of a visitor center, according to U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii, the lead Democrat on the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction and Veterans Affairs. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Sewer fee hikes advanced. Should the burden of keeping the oceans clean fall primarily on those connected to a sewer system? That was the question Monday, before a County Council panel unanimously advanced a bill almost doubling sewer fees over the next three years. West Hawaii Today.

A resolution to temporarily close one of only two roads into Leilani Estates failed to pass a County Council committee Monday after dozens of Leilani residents voiced support for and opposition to the bill. Tribune-Herald.

A judge denied a motion to dismiss a claim brought against Lloyd’s of London by an elderly Puna couple who allege their insurer acted in bad faith by not approving the claim they made after losing their home during the eruption of Kilauea volcano earlier this year. Tribune-Herald.

‘Punatics’ Look To Start Rebuilding After The Lava Damage. Hawaii County officials are fast-tracking the permitting of new package homes or repairs of ones damaged during Kilauea eruption. Civil Beat.

Mobile hygiene unit arrives on Big Island. Project Vision Hawaii unveiled its Hawaii Island-dedicated mobile shower unit, HiEhiE, purchased with donations raised during the Puna lava eruption. The event took place at Mooheau Bandstand in Downtown Hilo. KHON2.

Civil Beat Law Center to be Honored at luncheon. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Draft form of bill to penalize illegal short-term rentals under discussion. Operators want to make sure measure is not going to unfairly penalize permit holders. On Nov. 6, voters approved a County Charter amendment that would increase the fine for illegal operators from $1,000 to $20,000 initially and $10,000 every day of violation after that. Maui News.

The End Of An Era For Elle Cochran. Longtime Maui councilwoman plans to stay involved in local issues — and do a lot surfing. Civil Beat.

Input Sought on Maui Long Range Transportation Plan. Maui Now.

Forum to focus on climate change, energy resilience. Maui Electric Co. will host a free community forum titled “Energy Resilience on Maui” Nov. 29 at the Cameron Center Auditorium in Wailuku. Maui News.

Kauai

Detour taking toll. For seven months, residents on Kauai’s North Shore have been using a one-mile-long, pitted detour from Kuhio Highway to Kahiliholo Road to get in and out of their homes. Garden Island.

New boss at Honolulu Zoo, Pflueger dies, Big Island state rep has testicular cancer, Honolulu police commissioner resigns over chief selection process, $6M grant for UH Ebola study, 3rd director leaves Hawaii County administration, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Elephants at the Honolulu Zoo © 2017 All Hawaii News

Longtime Honolulu Zoo curator Linda Santos was named the troubled facility’s new director by the city today. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Zoo appoints first female director. Linda Santos has been promoted to Honolulu Zoo director from assistant zoo director. Pacific Business News.

The Honolulu Zoo has named its next director, who will be tasked with reclaiming the zoo's accreditation after it was stripped in March 2016. Associated Press.

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The state Department of Transportation's attempt to create its own police force is facing resistance. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii is one of the worst states for teachers, new report says. Hawaii News Now.

$6M grant aids UH with Ebola vaccine. After years of studying one of the world’s deadliest viruses, the University of Hawaii is making headway on an Ebola vaccine. Star-Advertiser.

The University of Hawaii Manoa has received a $6.4 million federal grant to continue development of a promising Ebola vaccine. Civil Beat.

Tourism is currently the largest employer in Hawaii but its making way for other job opportunities for residents. Hawaii Public Radio.

The head of U.S. Pacific Fleet at Pearl Harbor said today he has submitted a request to retire after being passed over for the position of commander of U.S. Pacific Command. Star-Advertiser.

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James “Jimmy” Pflueger, a prominent Hawaii car dealer who later served several months in jail for his role in the 2006 failure of Kauai’s Ko Loko dam that killed seven people, died Sunday night in Honolulu. He was 91. Star-Advertiser.

James “Jimmy” Pflueger, founder of Hawaii's first Honda automotive dealership, Pacific Honda in Honolulu, has died. He was 91. Pacific Business News.

James Pflueger, who was sentenced to seven months in jail for his part in the Ka Loko Dam failure on Kauai’s North Shore that killed seven people on March 14, 2006, died Sunday in Honolulu. Garden Island.

A man who established the nation’s first Honda dealership in Hawaii and later become a controversial Kauai landowner has died. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

A member of the Honolulu Police Commission is resigning after raising concerns about a lack of diversity in the process of selecting the department’s next chief. Associated Press.

Just weeks before the Honolulu Police Commission is scheduled to pick a new police chief, one of its members resigned abruptly Monday, citing her opposition to the selection process. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell says dealing with Honolulu's housing crisis is one of his top priorities. But at the same time, the city just lost millions of dollars for housing programs and need-based rental assistance. Hawaii News Now.

Councilman promises solution for frustrated residents along crash-prone stretch of Windward Oahu road. KHON2.

The Board of Water Supply has completed repairs to a water main break in the Waikiki area. Hawaii News Now.

The entrance to Ala Moana Regional Park off Atkinson Drive will remain closed for at least another week due to a sinkhole. KHON2.

A nonprofit is offering free youth suicide and bullying prevention training in public and private schools across Oahu, courtesy of a grant from the City and County of Honolulu. Star-Advertiser.

Located in a volcanic crater, Punchbowl is a distinctive cemetery, and now it has a new administration office and visitor center to match that character. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

With the resignation Friday of Parks and Recreation Director Charmaine Kamaka, Mayor Harry Kim has lost his third department head in almost as many months. West Hawaii Today.

State Rep. Chris Todd, D-Hilo, a local high school football coach, said he's been diagnosed with testicular cancer. Tribune-Herald.

The Big Island’s First Legal Homeless Camp: Safe Zone Or Shanty Town? Mayor Harry Kim wants several encampments around the island, but critics say the focus should be on finding permanent housing. Civil Beat.

Maui

The Kula Forest Reserve, Waipoli Access Road, Kahikinui Forest Reserve – Papaanui Tract, and Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area will be closed for two weeks, officials with the Department of Land and Natural Resources, Division of Forestry and Wildlife announced today. Maui Now.

Food entrepreneurs on Maui help build economic future. Hawaii is looking seriously at agriculture and value-added agricultural products as a future growth sector for our economy. Star-Advertiser.

State Department of Education Superintendent Christina Kishimoto will join Board of Education members for a community meeting Friday in Pomaikai Elementary School’s library in Kahului. Maui News.

Kauai

The Waimea swimming pool will be closed on Sunday, Oct. 1, and Sunday, Oct. 8, due to a staffing shortage. Additionally, the Kapaa swimming pool will be closed on Sunday, Oct. 8, also because of a staffing shortage. Garden Island.

Hawaii remembers fallen soldiers, whistleblower claims retaliation in USS Arizona ticket scheme, Camp Smith officer tangled in corruption probe, Sen. Donovan Dela Cruz rises in state Legislature, state unloading affordable housing complexes, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy James Horton, Director of National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific

A sea of American flags fluttered across 38,000 graves on the green grass of Punchbowl cemetery Monday as the nation’s war dead were remembered and an overdue debt of gratitude was paid to Vietnam veterans decades after the contentious Southeast Asian war was fought and debated back home. Star-Advertiser.

About 2,000 people gathered at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific Punchbowl on Monday to commemorate those who serve -- and those who made the ultimate sacrifice in their service. Hawaii News Now.

James Horton, Director of National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, reflects on changing public perception of today’s military. Hawaii Public Radio.

After blowing the whistle on a ticketing scheme at the USS Arizona memorial four years ago, a disabled veteran is speaking out for the first time about the retaliation he faced. Hawaii News Now.

A high-ranking civilian defense employee at Camp Smith is the latest former Navy officer caught in the ongoing investigation into the corruption scandal centered around Singaporean-­based defense contractor Leonard Glenn “Fat Leonard” Francis. Star-Advertiser.

How Did Donovan Dela Cruz Just Become Hawaii’s Most Powerful Senator? The longtime pro-business, pro-rail lawmaker has a history of ethics concerns, backroom dealing and a volatile temperament. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation is moving forward with plans to sell six state-owned affordable housing properties on three different islands to a private buyer. West Hawaii Today.

Despite months of negotiation and meetings, the Every Student Succeeds Act hasn’t undergone the changes that the Hawaii State Teachers Association wants to see. Garden Island.

Applications are still being accepted for a limited number of prekindergarten spots in 13 public charter schools for next school year. Star-Advertiser.

Most Of The Imported Seafood We Eat Isn’t Inspected. Hawaii experienced a hepatitis outbreak last year due to tainted scallops and may be on the verge of another due to bad ahi. Civil Beat.

Oahu

The City Council will consider a proposal to allow a Waikiki nonprofit group to set parking fees, oversee freight and passenger deliveries, and make other transportation rules in the state’s No. 1 tourist destination. Star-Advertiser.

Beachgoers and surfers are the latest groups to object to a city plan to raise an additional $4 million by doubling parking prices and increasing parking enforcement hours in Waikiki and downtown. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu’s new “homeless court” so far has cleared a backlog of 268 cases since it began in January and — perhaps more important — has gotten four homeless defendants housed, including a chronically homeless man who now has an apartment after nearly 30 years on the street. Star-Advertiser.

A ship carrying a giant concrete-and-steel cradle built to hold ships out of the water so they can be worked on will be an unusual nautical sight to see off Honolulu International Airport today. Star-Advertiser.

The moving and visually stunning Lantern Floating Hawaii ceremony remained hugely popular this year as tens of thousands of people descended on Ala Moana Beach Park on Monday. Star-Advertiser.

As the sun set Monday, tens of thousands lined the calm shores of Ala Moana Beach Park’s Magic Island to place illuminated lanterns on the water, watching them drift away into the horizon. Hawaii News Now.

A moving ceremony at Magic Island Monday evening as thousands of lanterns were released into the water at the Memorial Day Lantern Floating Ceremony. KITV.

The 19th annual Lantern Floating Hawaii ceremony has once again brought tens of thousands of people together to honor loved ones who have died. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Feature film producers want the Big Island to ramp up its film-making gravitas with a state-of-the-art studio for indoor production. Tribune-Herald.

Mainland filmmakers spent an average of more than $17 on the Big Island for every Hawaii County resident in the past year. Tribune-Herald.

More than 100 pay respects at Memorial Day ceremony. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

A memorial for World War II veterans of Maui County was unveiled Monday at the Maui Veterans Cemetery, where a couple hundred people showed up to pay their respects on Memorial Day. Maui News.

Maui to Get $1M in Federal Funds for Head Start. Maui Now.

It's been a little more than five months since the last haul of a commercial sugar crop on Maui. The precise plans are still evolving for alternative crops on the land that was once used to plant sugar cane. But that's not the only question relating to big sugar-there's also a matter of hardware. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai

Memorial Day speakers emphasize the high cost of war and the need to remember and honor the fallen. Garden Island.

Hundreds of WWII remains to be exhumed from Punchbowl Cemetery, Honolulu rail tax advanced, Legislature passes bills during crossover, attorney general begins Kenoi investigation, raises for nurses, Kauai B&Bs fight new law, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

National Cemetery of the Pacific at Punchbowl, courtesy U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs

The Pentagon announced Tuesday it will take the unprecedented step of exhuming for identification the remains of all 388 sailors and Marines from the USS Oklahoma buried as "unknowns" at Punchbowl cemetery years after the Dec. 7, 1941, attack on Pearl Harbor. Star-Advertiser.

The Pentagon said Tuesday it would exhume and try to identify the remains of nearly 400 sailors and Marines killed when the USS Oklahoma sank in the bombing of Pearl Harbor. Associated Press.

A Major new mission from the Pentagon: dig up the remains of hundreds of servicemen buried at the National Cemetery of the Pacific at Punchbowl. KITV4.

The House and Senate each passed hundreds of bills Tuesday, sending them back to their originating chamber often with big questions to be answered when it comes to funding. Medical marijuana dispensaries, the rail tax, public hospitals, transgender birth certificates, wrongful imprisonment, energy, bullying, mail-in elections and local food were on the long list of legislation that crossed over ahead of Thursday’s deadline. Some still resemble their original form. Others not so much. Civil Beat.

Lawmakers were busy Tuesday passing hundreds of bills that originated in the other house. The state Senate passed 135 House bills while the state House passed nearly 150 Senate measures. KHON2.

Hawaii lawmakers are tackling proposals that aim to fix the troubled health exchange, ban sex trafficking and prevent youth from smoking. Here's a sampling of the hundreds of bills that were passed on Tuesday. Associated Press.

The Hawaii Senate has approved a bill to establish a system of medical marijuana dispensaries nearly 15 years after the drug became legal in the state. The Senate passed the bill Tuesday. The next step is for senators and their colleagues in the House to work out their disagreements on how it should work. Associated Press.

A measure aimed at reining in Hawaii payday loans that can reach as high as 459 percent APR has been stripped of its new proposed cap of 36 percent, despite a legislator’s assurance that wouldn’t happen. Civil Beat.

Public opposition to Gov. David Ige’s nominations to the powerful board that administers the state’s water code is mounting ahead of a key legislative hearing Wednesday. Civil Beat.

Petition to reject Balfour passes 2,500 signatures. Ahead of tomorrow's WTL hearing on the nomination of Bill Balfour to the Water Commission, signatures continue to be added to an online petition urging the rejection of the inappropriate nomination. Hawaii Independent.

Nurses represented by the Hawaii Government Employees Association overwhelmingly ratified a new two-year contract that includes raises of 4 percent per year plus "step movements" that allow them to move up the pay ladder into higher-paid classifications. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

A bill that would extend Oahu's rail tax has cleared the Senate, providing state lawmakers the chance to hash out its details — or even kill it — largely in closed-door negotiations leading up to conference committee meetings. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Senate on Tuesday passed a House bill that would extend the City and County of Honolulu's surcharge on the state's general excise tax for the rail transit project through 2027. Pacific Business News.

With Oahu's plastic bag ban just around the corner, retailers are stocking up for the switch. Island Plastic Bags in Halawa is helping customers prepare for the change at checkout counters that starts July 1. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

State Attorney General Doug Chin confirmed Tuesday that he is investigating Hawaii County Mayor Billy Kenoi’s use of his county-issued credit card. West Hawaii Today.

Embattled Hawaii County Mayor Billy Kenoi promised to cooperate with a state attorney general's criminal investigation into his county-financed trips to Honolulu hostess bars and other personal expenses but does not plan to talk about the issue anymore. Star-Advertiser.

The Attorney General of the State of Hawaii will investigate Hawaii County Mayor Billy Kenoi's use of a county-issued credit card, state officials said Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

Former Big Island Mayor Harry Kim said a government official called him Tuesday morning and asked him if he'd sign an impeachment petition against current Mayor Billy Kenoi, who has apologized for improperly charging more than $30,000 in personal expenses on a county credit card. Hawaii News Now.

An omnibus ethics bill sponsored by Kohala Councilwoman Margaret Wille proved too much to digest Tuesday for County Council members. The council Finance Committee postponed Bill 37, expanding the definition of family members for ethics purposes, changing how county contracts can be awarded to employees and how county facilities and employees’ time can be used for union-endorsed campaigning. West Hawaii Today.

A lawsuit seeking to stop Puna Geothermal Venture from drilling at night will go forward. Hilo Circuit Judge Greg Nakamura on Tuesday denied PGV’s motion to dismiss the lawsuit brought by Puna Pono Alliance and Leilani Estates residents Jon Olson and Hillary E. Wilt. Tribune-Herald.

As Mauna Kea Protests Grow, Some Hawaii Island Residents Worry About Jobs. Activists are calling for the removal of 13 observatories that support a $90 million industry on the Big Island that would grow appreciably with the Thirty Meter Telescope. Civil Beat.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency has reimbursed Hawaii County more than $1.6 million in costs incurred while preparing for the lava threat from Kilauea Volcano, but county officials are still hoping for another $10 million — and counting. Star-Advertiser.

There will be no speed humps installed on Nani Kailua Drive. Following a petition by some residents for the traffic-calming devices — and protest by others — Public Works Director Warren Lee has determined the roadway doesn’t qualify for the humps. West Hawaii Today.

Maui
Four men have been indicted in connection with allegations that a Speedi Shuttle manager received kickbacks while providing unauthorized payroll checks to employees during a nine-month period ending last year. Maui News.

Maui Economic Opportunity on Saturday celebrated the opening of its new 10-acre transportation facility in Puunene. Maui News.

Home sales on Maui were up in March despite a significant rise in the median home price to $627,500, according to new information released by the Realtors Association of Maui. Maui Now.

Kauai

Nearly two dozen other visitor accommodation operators on Tuesday asked county Planning Commissioners to craft solid permitting laws and procedures for their businesses. It is something that, they say, has not been clearly defined until now. Garden Island.

Groundbreaking for the Nawiliwili Road improvements took place Tuesday in the parking lot of the Kukui Grove Center, where improvements were underway, regardless if shoppers knew about the activity taking place. Garden Island.

Hawaiian Electric, NextEra set public meetings; 80% tax posed for e-cigs; Turtle Bay deal in jeopardy; Pentagon mulls exhuming Punchbowl remains; lawmakers want hotel tax for beaches; Molokai ferry unpopular; UH to study Hualalai geothermal; more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Electricity, courtesy NextEra Energy

Hawaiian Electric Co. and Florida-based NextEra Energy Inc., which is buying the Honolulu-based utility for $4.3 billion, are holding a series of informational meetings across the state next month to talk about the planned acquisition. Pacific Business News.

NextEra Energy and Hawaiian Electric will be hosting 13 community meetings across Hawaii to discuss the companies' pending merger. The two companies announced in December that Florida-based NextEra plans to acquire Hawaiian Electric to expand clean energy in Hawaii. Associated Press.

State lawmakers are taking concerns about the pending $4.3 billion sale of Hawaiian Electric Company to Florida-based NextEra Energy to the House floor via a series of resolutions. Tribune-Herald.

News release: NextEra Energy and Hawaiian Electric Companies to Host Open House Informational Meetings. NextEra Energy.

A state Senate committee Monday unanimously approved an overhauled bill that would levy an 80 percent sales tax on snuff, chewing tobacco, small cigars, loose tobacco and electronic cigarettes, with one company saying it would cripple Hawaii's young e-cigarette industry. Star-Advertiser.

Two State Senate committees will vote later this week on whether to advance a measure to set up medical marijuana dispensaries for nearly 13-thousand qualified patients. Hawaii Public Radio.

A bill in the state Legislature was approved by a joint Senate panel Monday that would set aside part of the transient accommodations tax to help fund beach replenishment. Star-Advertiser.

A bill to relax the state's annual motor vehicle safety check requirement on the neighbor islands has been rejected by key leaders in the state Senate and appears to be dead for the year. Star-Advertiser.

A bill that would require a comprehensive financial, management and program audit of the Hawaii Department of Education will be heard Wednesday by a state Senate committee. West Hawaii Today.

The $10 million estimates for fixing the leaking, algae-plagued and occasionally stinky reflecting pools at the State Capitol are so high that state officials are asking whether they should remove the water from the ponds in a re-design. Hawaii News Now.

U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz and Mazie Hirono have announced the formation of a federal judicial selection commission to help to fill a seat on the U.S. District Court for the District of Hawaii. The seat will become vacant following the retirement from active service of Chief Judge Susan Oki Mollway on Nov. 6. Civil Beat.

Opinion: Neil Abercrombie — ‘I Am Who I Am’ The former governor is on the road ahead as a private citizen after a lifetime of public service. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Gov. David Ige is scrambling to save a "historic" arrangement to protect much of Oahu's Turtle Bay Resort from development after the $40 million taxpayer deal hit a snag over financing he helped arrange. Star-Advertiser.

The state’s plan to conserve 665 acres at Turtle Bay Resort may be in jeopardy after House lawmakers raised questions about a bill to extend the funding deadline for the $48.5 million agreement, which would require $40 million in state funds. Civil Beat.

Housing Program for Homeless Veterans Hits a Snag in Hawaii. Oahu’s tight housing market and landlords reluctant to take federal vouchers are keeping dozens of veterans from getting a place to live. Civil Beat.

The Pentagon is considering ordering the exhumation of nearly 400 sailors and Marines who died on the battleship USS Okla­homa on Dec. 7, 1941, and were buried as "unknowns" at Punchbowl cemetery, so they can be identified and returned to families. Star-Advertiser.

A Danish developer is planning to develop a major offshore wind energy project, which would include more than 100 turbines, in federal waters in Hawaii off Oahu’s northwest and southern coasts. Pacific Business News.

Oahu's homeless problem isn't really getting better. In fact, in some places it seems to be getting worse. KITV4.

Honolulu has been trying many options to get homeless off the streets and into shelters, but there’s no easy fix. Some refer to Kakaako as the third city, in the midst of a construction boom. But within this area is a growing community where, earlier this month, the count of makeshift shelters numbered 123. KHON2.

Hawaii

A University of Hawaii researcher has asked the state Board of Land and Natural Resources for a geothermal exploration permit to conduct a noninvasive geophysical study of the west rift zone of Hualalai, just north of Kailua-Kona. West Hawaii Today.

Mayor Billy Kenoi on Monday took aim at projects needed on both sides of the island to move Big Island tourism forward. Speaking at a meeting of the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Hawaii, Kenoi pushed for improvements along Hilo’s Banyan Drive and a renewed effort to make Kona International Airport truly international. West Hawaii Today.

A state Department of Education administrator in Hilo is set to receive $325,000 to settle a wrongful termination case against the state. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii regulators have denied Paniolo Power Co. LLC’s request to consolidate the NextEra Energy Inc.-Hawaiian Electric Co. acquisition application and the Honolulu-based utility’s new energy plan into one discussion, according to public documents. Pacific Business News.

The state Attorney General’s Office is appealing a decision made last month to resume Medicaid reimbursements for a Hilo physician accused of fraud. Tribune-Herald.

While it’s not advancing, glowing or steaming, officials said Monday they were not yet ready to call the lower half of the June 27 lava flow dead. But that doesn’t mean there’s no room for optimism. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui Police Chief Tivoli Faaumu will be the speaker at the Maui Native Hawaiian Chamber of Commerce Membership Dinner on April 14 at the Maui Tropical Plantation in Waikapu. Maui News.

Keopuolani Park near the playground area in Kahului was closed Monday morning because of a suspected unexploded ordnance found. Star-Advertiser.

Opinion: Maui Redevelopment Agency to discuss repairing Wailuku Municipal Parking Lot. MauiTime

Kauai

Kauai lawmakers secured over $60 million for projects across the island as part of the state budget passed by the House earlier this week. Garden Island.

Molokai

Dave Jung, President of the Lahaina Cruise Company, which operates the Molokai Princess, says the future of the Molokai ferry is in jeopardy as ridership is at an all-time low and more people choose to fly to Maui instead of taking the two-hour boat ride. Hawaii News Now.

Chinese tourists flock to Hawaii, Morita out as PUC chair, attorney general, two board members fight transparency, $25M Punchbowl improvements advance, Dems mull Johanson party switch, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Shoppers in Waikiki © 2015 All Hawaii News

According to research by Hawaii Tourism China, Chinese visitor arrivals increased by more than 25 percent during the first 11 months in 2014. Civil Beat.

Hawaii's 2015 tourism campaign to leverage visitors’ social media content. Pacific Business News.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority is working with a golf course membership company to bring high-spending Chinese golfers to Hawaii. Associated Press.

The state's Public Utilities Commission chairwoman, Hermina "Mina" Morita, resigned from her position Monday. Star-Advertiser.

Mina Morita, the embattled chair of Hawaii’s Public Utilities Commission, has resigned, according to a press release from Gov. David Ige’s office. There’s no word yet on Morita’s replacement. Civil Beat.

Hermina Morita, who has played a major role in Hawaii's energy industry since becoming chairwoman of the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission in 2011, has resigned from her post, Gov. David Ige's office said Monday. Pacific Business News.

Hermina “Mina” Morita has resigned as chair of the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission, Gov. David Ige’s office said Monday. Garden Island.

Hawaii Gov. David Ige says he's accepting the resignation of Hermina Morita as the chairwoman of the state Public Utilities Commission. The governor said in a statement Monday Morita decided not to seek reappointment. Associated Press.

State Democrats on Friday will begin reviewing a request by state Rep. Aaron Ling Johanson to switch his party affiliation from Republican to Democrat. Johanson, who last month announced he was switching parties over philosophical differences with some members of the state GOP, goes before the Executive Committee of the Demo­cratic Party's Oahu County Committee to present his case. Star-Advertiser.

Two State Board Members Fight Release of Financial Disclosure Statements. The Attorney General has asked the Hawaii Supreme Court to delay a Circuit Court order forcing the Ethics Commission to release of the records. Civil Beat.

After arguments pro and con, a task force on health care for seniors took no position Monday on a legislative resolution that would require hospitals to instruct family members in the proper care of relatives who are discharged. Star-Advertiser.

Matson Inc., the state's largest ocean shipper, is lowering its fuel surcharge for Hawaii and other Pacific islands by 4 percentage points as bunker fuel prices continue to drop. Star-Advertiser.

The number of new foreclosure lawsuits filed in Hawaii through November stayed under 200 for a seventh straight month in the wake of a tweak to state law that took effect in May. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

State housing officials want land developers to get creative and submit plans to redevelop a North School Street property, making a housing project featuring both low-income public housing and mixed-income rental units. Star-Advertiser.

The overtime costs incurred by the Honolulu Police Department to provide round-the-clock protection for President Barack Obama, his family and others traveling with him during his just-completed Christmas vacation have risen dramatically since the Hawaii native began spending the holidays here. Star-Advertiser.

President Barack Obama and his family just spent their Christmas and New Year’s holidays in Kailua. Now it’s time for taxpayers to pick up the tab. While the Obamas and friends who accompany them pay for their own private vacation home rentals on or near Kailua Beach, taxpayers foot a multimillion dollar tab for everything from a stand-by ambulance to the fuel for Air Force One. Hawaii Reporter.

Four Oahu nursing facilities have been hit with flu outbreaks since last week, leading to restricted visits and — in one case — a temporary ban on accepting new patients. Star-Advertiser.

After two waves of rolling power blackouts, Hawaiian Electric Co. said no further outages would be needed Monday night. Star-Advertiser.

After several setbacks, a plan to expand a revered final resting place at Punchbowl is finally moving forward. The Department of Veterans Affairs just awarded a $25 million contract to Nan Inc. Hawaii News Now.

Opinion: Rail Ends at Ala Moana, But Will Tax Go on Forever? Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell is being disingenuous when he claims extending a rail surcharge doesn't amount to asking the Legislature for a tax increase. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

A state senator says an idea floated by a Hilo attorney to use a helium-filled airship to take passengers over active lava could be a viable solution if Kilauea volcano’s June 27 flow crosses Highway 130. Tribune-Herald.

The Kamakana Villages affordable housing development would get a more secure water source, if developer Forest City Hawaii is successful converting an existing exploratory well into a production well. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County has issued a finding of no significant environmental impact for the construction of a central sewer system in the Lono Kona subdivision. The $6.5 million sewer project will be built mauka of Kuakini Highway in an area residents have dubbed “Hamburger Hill.” West Hawaii Today.

East Hawaii residents woke up Monday morning to find volcanic haze shrouding the landscape and a sulfuric smell and taste in the air, the odor reminiscent of a barbecue grill gone unattended too long. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Partnership talks are advancing between the operator of three Maui hospitals and Hawai‘i Pacific Health. The news comes as patients continue to pack the emergency room at Maui Memorial Medical Center. Maui Now.

State hospitals on Maui are pursuing a partnership with the privately-run Hawai‘i Pacific Health. The state’s publicly-funded facilities have been struggling for years and plan to seek approval from the legislature. Hawaii Public Radio.

While single-family and condominium sales numbers were both down in 2014, compared with the previous year, prices continued to climb and the percentage of foreclosure and short sales fell. Maui News.

Kauai

Former renters of Kauai Kalani Apartments near Lydgate Park are suing condo developers  in 5th Circuit Court for unlawful evictions and retaliation. Garden Island.

Hawaii Legislature gears up for session with budget briefings, UH presidential search underway, First Lady lengthens Hawaiian vacation as Obama returns to Washingon, research team quits troubled East-West Center, Hawaii County buys $6.2M shoreline, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii state Capitol (c) 2014 All Hawaii News

The Senate Ways and Means Committee and the House Finance Committee begin informational briefings today on proposed agency budgets, prior to the opening of the regular legislative session Jan. 15. Today's briefings, beginning at 1:30 p.m., center on the Judiciary and the Governor's Office. No public testimony will be considered.

Agendas and background materials in pdf format can be found by clicking the following links:

• Monday. Judiciary, Governor's Office.
• Tuesday. Public Safety.
• Wednesday morning. Charter Schools, Taxation.
• Wednesday afternoon. Health.
• Thursday morning. DLNR.
• Thursday afternoon. DOT. 

State education officials will be defending their budget requests before lawmakers beginning this week as the state House and Senate money committees hold budget briefings with departments ahead of the Legislature reconvening Jan. 15. Lawmakers will take up the fiscal 2015 budget next month, using Gov. Neil Abercrombie's proposed $12.2 billion operating budget as a starting point. The governor highlighted a record $844 million surplus at the close of last fiscal year in proposing higher spending in the coming year. Star-Advertiser.

The 15-day Hawaiian holiday vacation is over for President Barack Obama and daughters Sasha and Malia. The president and his daughters arrived back at the White House on a chilly, drizzly Sunday morning after an eight-hour flight on Air Force One. Mrs. Obama stayed behind to spend time with friends ahead of her upcoming 50th birthday party. Associated Press.

With all the laws in Hawaii regulating tobacco use, it might be only a matter of time before smoking is pretty much outlawed throughout the islands. Civil Beat.

The search for the next University of Hawaii president should get a boost this week with the expected hiring of an executive search firm. The Board of Regents' presidential selection committee — which first began meeting last June — will discuss search firm bids Wednesday afternoon at the UH-Manoa campus, according to the committee's meeting agenda. Star-Advertiser.

The recent overhaul of the GED, which marks the exam's fifth change since 1942, has caused consternation among adult education experts. They fear that the new format and the additional costs for students to take the test could prevent them from succeeding in a post-schooling world where academic credentials are increasingly important. In Hawaii, about 5 percent of Hawaii's teens drop out of high school each year. Civil Beat.

What is poi? A 1909 article, translated into English from Hawaiian, responding to a dictionary's dry description of "the paste or pudding." Hawaii Independent.

Oahu

Every year, the City and County of Honolulu lets slide an opportunity to get more than a quarter of a million dollars in federal funding to promote sustainable coastal development. The funds, which the other three counties in Hawaii receive, is mostly used to hire staff to implement the Coastal Zone Management Act, which is federal legislation that was passed in 1972 to balance the needs of environmental conservation with coastal development. Civil Beat.

For more than two decades, word was that the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific at Punchbowl was at capacity for in-ground burials. But the reality is, Punchbowl has 99 open in-ground grave sites — information never shared by the VA with local veterans service organizations such as the Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion or the 100th Infantry Battalion and 442nd veterans clubs, officials said. Star-Advertiser.

A purchase agreement to sell 12 of Honolulu’s public housing projects to a private developer for $142 million still has a pulse, but city officials aren’t confident they can keep it alive. On Friday, Managing Director Ember Shinn told the Honolulu City Council Committee on Executive Matters and Legal Affairs that negotiations with the buyer to save the deal haven’t gone well. Civil Beat.

The four-person energy research team at the East-West Center in Honolulu has left the center, which promotes better relations between the United States and the Asia-Pacific region, as it moves toward a different business model that’s not as dependent on federal funds, but the leader of the team says the reason for the departures was to protest management at the center. Pacific Business News.

Prominent energy expert Fereidun Fesharaki and his staff have resigned from Honolulu’s East-West Center to protest what they claim is poor leadership and a lack of transparency within the organization. Civil Beat.

Hawaii may be the Rainbow State, but that's not true when it comes to the buildings in Honolulu. In contrast to more colorful cities such as Miami or Berlin, most of our buildings are painted beige or another neutral color, making the city literally pale against the imposing scenery. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

The shoreline at Ooma has escaped development — for good. Hawaii County on Friday announced it acquired the makai 217 acres at Ooma for $6.2 million under its Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation program. West Hawaii Today.

On the heels of a mostly positive external review of the legislative auditor’s office, the County Council will move closer next week to appointing an auditor to fill the position that’s been vacant for more than a year. West Hawaii Today.

Hilo’s downtown is getting a fresh coat of paint starting Monday. Paint company Benjamin Moore announced in June that Downtown Hilo will be one of 20 areas across the U.S. and Canada getting a paint job for the new year. The project is part of its 2013 Main Street Matters promotional contest. Tribune-Herald.

In what appears to be a growing trend among municipalities nationally, Hawaii island is becoming the third county in the state to do away with certain kinds of plastic bags at the grocery checkout counter. The ban on single-use plastic bags begins Jan. 17. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Island’s YMCA is hoping to get back in the black this year following significant cuts to its programs in 2013. The nonprofit organization in Hilo suspended its child care programs last year while facing a $400,000 deficit. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Pollution reduction projects in West Maui will be discussed during a presentation before the Maui Council’s Infrastructure and Environmental Management Committee on Monday. Maui Now.

An invasion of stinging fire ants with a taste for peanut butter and Spam and only as long as the thickness of a penny could be gaining a foothold on Maui, threatening the island's lifeblood visitor industry. Maui News.

Upcountry District 12 members of the Maui County Democratic Party will meet Wednesday afternoon in the Mayor Hannibal Tavares Community Center's multipurpose room in Pukalani. Maui News.

Kauai

For more than two decades, Bert Lyon has pushed local officials to change the at-large voting system for County Council members to one that distributes the seats into circumscribed island districts. It is a move the Kilauea man said would help minority candidates with smaller coffers and bring some stability to what he believes is a broken system. Garden Island.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will reduce the days Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge is open to the public to five days a week. Garden Island.

For months now, James Pflueger has been requesting that the Department of Land and Natural Resources stop state water from entering his property at the Ka Loko Reservoir in Kilauea — the site of a dam breach in 2006 that killed seven people. Garden Island.

Molokai

Hawaiian Airlines plans to begin service to Molokai and Lanai this year, and the certification process to launch its new subsidiary, Ohana by Hawaiian, has resumed. After 2013 budget sequestration caused delays in certification through the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Hawaiian officials say things are back on track. Molokai Dispatch.

For the last two decades, community group Hui Malama o Mo'omomi has been managing Mo'omomi beach and its facilities on Molokai's north shore. Maui News.