Showing posts with label alcohol. Show all posts
Showing posts with label alcohol. Show all posts

Thursday, June 10, 2021

Grand jury declines to indict police in 16-year-old's shooting death, teachers ratify contract, hot housing market squeezing out renters, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2021 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Hawaii mai tai on the rocks ©2021 All Hawaii News

Survey says Hawaii residents among the least likely to switch to alcohol-free drinks. 3,000 drinkers were surveyed across the country and it revealed that just 58% of people in Hawai'i would be willing to switch to a non-alcoholic drink -- for at least a month. KITV4.

Gov. David Ige continues to restrict the release of public records, citing the ongoing pandemic. The state’s public records law continues to be partially suspended under Gov. David Ige’s latest emergency proclamation related to the coronavirus pandemic, allowing government agencies to delay the release of records if they are busy responding to the pandemic. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii State Teachers Association says tentative 2-year contract for teachers ratified. The two-year tentative agreement freezes teachers’ pay through June 2023. The state previously proposed cuts in pay by as much as 20% to help balance the budget in the midst of the pandemic. The contract also increases state contributions to employee health premiums. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Hawaii’s Hot Housing Market Is Squeezing Out Renters. The number of renters who are looking for a new place to live could rise when the eviction moratorium is lifted in August. Civil Beat.

'Regenerative Tourism' Movement Wants Benefits to Outweigh Costs. Even before the pandemic, movements were underway to shift Hawaiʻi’s visitor industry toward a model that gives back more than it takes. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Hopes New Commission Will Improve Civic Engagement And Respect For Democracy. In a bid to encourage democratic engagement by citizens young and old, Hawaii has joined a growing list of states, including California and Illinois, in establishing initiatives aimed at providing education and resources about basic government processes and ways to influence them. Civil Beat.

State officials tout incentives, hope more residents will get vaccinated. State leaders are hopeful that recently announced incentives and benchmarks will entice more people to receive a COVID-19 vaccine, but it’s too soon to tell what effect those efforts will actually have on inoculation numbers. Tribune-Herald.

Kaiser opens ‘ImmUNITY’ sweepstakes for those vaccinated against COVID-19. Kaiser Permanente is launching a sweepstakes campaign as part of a national effort to vaccinate 70% of adults in the United States against COVID-19 with at least one shot by the Fourth of July. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Hawaii reports 46 new coronavirus cases. There are 17 coronavirus cases on Oahu, five on the Big Island, 17 on Maui and seven diagnosed out of state. KHON2.

Oahu

Grand jury declines to charge officers in 16-year-old Iremamber Sykap shooting. In a decision that stunned family members and prompted calls for disclosure, an Oahu grand jury declined to indict three Honolulu police officers in connection with the April 5 shooting death of an unarmed 16-year-old who was the driver of a stolen vehicle that police fired into from behind as it sat idle on Kala­kaua Avenue. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.

ACLU Files Lawsuit Accusing HPD Officer Of Helping His Friend. The ACLU has been pushing for a policy prohibiting conflicts of interest in policing. HPD’s new acting chief says the department is working on it. Civil Beat.

Woman says police covered up assault.
The American Civil Liberties Union of Hawaii filed a federal civil rights lawsuit against the city, Honolulu police and the private business partner of an officer on behalf of a woman who alleges they covered up her assault by refusing to allow her to file a police report and falsely accusing her of stealing a mobile phone. Star-Advertiser.

Upfront split of new Aloha Stadium cost could have downside for taxpayers. The pending plan would shift much of the $400 million price tag to developers up front but could cost taxpayers more in the long run. KHON2.

In court, ‘Miske Enterprise’ defendant says he was offered $50,000 to help commit murder. Norman Akau III is the latest defendant to enter into a plea agreement with federal prosecutors in the case against Honolulu businessman and suspected crime boss Michael Miske, who remains behind bars as he awaits trial on a long list of charges, including murder. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Ethics Board weighs in on Van Pernis complaints.
Leeward Planning Commissioner Mark Van Pernis was in the hot seat again Wednesday, this time before the county Board of Ethics. The board found Van Pernis didn’t violate the code of ethics in one petition, and it postponed action on a second petition in order to review videos of planning commission meetings where Van Pernis was accused of acting inappropriately. West Hawaii Today.

HFD likely to finish out fiscal year slightly under budget. As of May 31, the department had expended just 84.12% of its $51.92 million annual budget, leaving a little bit of leeway for the final month of fiscal year 2020-21, which ends June 30. With the surplus, the department paid years of past-due bills discovered after a new accountant was brought on, Todd told the Hawaii County Fire Commission Wednesday. West Hawaii Today.

Legislative talk story: Lowen, Kanuha talk with constituents about 2021 session. Sen. Dru Kanuha (D-Kona, Ka’u) joined Rep. Nicole Lowen (D-North Kona) on Zoom alongside constituents for the hour-long meeting. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui Residents Invited to Give Input on Future Transportation Projects.  The Maui Metropolitan Planning Organization is seeking public input on improving transportation on the Valley Isle. Hawaii Public Radio.

6-Story Building Proposed for Construction on Grounds of Old Wailuku Post Office Site. The construction is proposed by the State of Hawai‘i, Hawai‘i Housing Finance and Development Corporation for use as office space for various state agencies. Maui Now.

Traffic concerns stall Costco gas station expansion plans. After coming close to denying a permit that would allow Costco to expand its fueling station in Kahului, the Maui Planning Commission deferred a decision on Tuesday, citing concerns over traffic around the already crowded gas station. Maui News.

Kauai

HTA funds $100K for forth-coming Kaua‘i shuttle service. With 40% of car rental inventory down and a surge in visitor arrivals, finding ways to get around the island for visitors has become a more pressing issue than it was in the past. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i Humane Society gets $80,000. After receiving an anonymous donation of $40,000, the Kaua‘i Humane Society’s board matched the amount and used those funds by recently signing an agreement with Spectrum to upgrade their internet and phone lines. Garden Island.

Thursday, April 2, 2020

Mass inmate release in the works, COVID-19 cases continue to climb, mayors plead with Trump to stop non-essential travel to Hawaii, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2020 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Hawaii jail dormitory ©2020 All Hawaii News
Officials weigh the motion to release 426 inmates to curb the spread of COVID-19. Hawaii prosecutors and public defenders will meet again today to try to reach agreement over which inmates now being held at the state’s four jails will be released in an effort to curb the spread of COVID-19. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Council Concerned About Potential Inmate Releases. Council members do not want detainees to be released without support amid the pandemic. Civil Beat.

197 inmates tagged for release: HCCC awaits Supreme Court ruling for largest inmate release in the state. Hawaii Community Correctional Center, frequently the state’s most crowded jail, is also the one that will release the most inmates under a plan being worked out between the state Public Defender’s Office and county prosecutors. West Hawaii Today.

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Three Hawaii mayors ask Trump to stop all non-essential travel. Three of the state’s four mayors have asked President Donald Trump to stop all non-essential travel to Hawaii to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. Star-Advertiser.

Neighbor islands may implement even stricter rules if stay-at-home orders are ignored. Neighbor island officials said they are doing everything in their power to inform and protect their communities. KHON2.

Interisland quarantine order empties airports. Passengers to Hawaii in March dropped more than 98.5% as COVID-19 lockdowns reduced travel demand for the islands. Gov. David Ige instituted a 14-day mandatory self-quarantine for all arriving trans-Pacific passengers on March 26. Star-Advertiser.

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Hawaii sets new high for COVID-19 cases but officials say it likely will get worse. Hawaii on Wednesday saw the largest increase in coronavirus cases yet — 34 — but state officials acknowledged that more records likely are on the way despite travel restrictions and other measures implemented to stem the tide of disease. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Reports 34 More COVID-19 Cases. On Wednesday, Hawaii health officials reported the largest daily increase in coronavirus cases to date. Civil Beat.

Hawaii reports 34 new coronavirus cases, bringing statewide total to 258. The state is reporting 34 new coronavirus cases Wednesday, in the highest one-day total since the pandemic began. The cases bring the statewide total to 258. Hawaii News Now.

State tops 250 total COVID-19 cases. Wednesday had the largest number of new COVID-19 cases reported in Hawaii over a one-day period, and Gov. David Ige said the pandemic has turned our community upside down and is forever altering the way that we once lived. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Updates: As Case Count Hits 258, Expect 'It Will Get Worse'; Small Biz Loans Available. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii COVID-19 Update For April 1, 34 New Cases Reported. The cumulative totals for positive cases of COVID-19 identified in Hawaiʻi statewide now stands at 258. Big Island Video News.

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Emergency Room doctor warns of COVID-19 peak in Hawaii. A consultant on the Netflix Docuseries "Pandemic: How to Prevent an Outbreak" released this January says Hawaii is at least a few weeks away from a potential peak in the coronavirus outbreak, and what we do now will make a big difference. KITV4.

Man who became Hawaii’s first coronavirus death likely caught disease in Las Vegas, state says. The state’s first and only COVID-19 victim likely caught the disease in Las Vegas and brought it back with him to Hawaii. KITV4.

No Statewide Text Alerts, Ige Says. As the public clamors for information from the state on how to respond to COVID-19, the governor says a text alert system won’t be used. Civil Beat.

With Hawaii residents forced to stay at home, booze sales boom. Local spirit and wine distributors and Hawaii’s largest, locally owned grocery store said they’ve seen a big spike in the sales of alcoholic beverages in recent weeks. Hawaii News Now.

Unemployment filings in March top 160,000. The Department of Labor and Industrial Relations reported total unemployment filings in March of 160,929. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Board of Education may change graduation requirements for Class of 2020. The Board of Education will meet today to consider altering graduation requirements so seniors can get their diplomas on time despite the disruption of the COVID-19 shutdown that has closed public schools. Star-Advertiser.

This Hawaii Firm Says It Has Millions Of Masks For Sale. But health officials say the company’s masks aren’t really a help to the medical community which has recently received a new supply from established providers. Civil Beat.

Are surfing and other ocean activities safe during a health crisis? Most experts say yes. There’s a growing debate over whether surfing should be allowed during the coronavirus pandemic. Hawaii News Now.

Some Hawaii Agencies Get Creative To Keep Public Involved, Others Abandon Participation. Civic participation is a challenge during the time of coronavirus. Some agencies are finding ways to still include the public, despite Gov. David Ige's emergency order suspending the requirement among other state laws. Hawaii Public Radio.

Deal reached with apparent new owners of Meadow Gold Hawaii. Meadow Gold Hawaii could soon have a new owner. Industrial Reality Group plans to buy the Hilo and Honolulu facilities from Dean Foods Company for an undisclosed amount. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Restaurant Association notifying the public about restaurant employee relief fund. The National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation has created a Restaurant Employee Relief Fund. KITV4.

Oahu

Waikiki doctors to offer blood test that detects exposure to COVID-19. Some in the medical community call the 10 minute test a game changer that can identify people who've had the virus and have built immunity against it. KITV4.

Parks and hikes are closed, but that’s not keeping everyone away. Despite orders to stay at home and practice social distancing, HNN has been flooded with complaints about tightly packed crowds and trespassing into closed areas. A look around Oahu shows it’s clear some people are following the rules while others are not. Hawaii News Now.

HPD issues warnings to more than 250 people at closed Ala Moana Beach Park. City and county parks closed a week ago yet KITV-4 saw several people run past barricades set up at the park entrances on Wednesday. KITV4.

Tenants of Bishop Street office building notified of worker’s positive coronavirus test. A worker in the 25-story downtown office building Bishop Place has tested positive for COVID-19, prompting Douglas Emmett Management to alert the other building tenants. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu Homeless Shelters Are Desperate For More Room As Virus Looms. Honolulu’s hotels could house Oahu’s homeless population several times over, but officials have announced no concrete plans to expand the shelter system’s capacity. Civil Beat.

Deep cleaning coming to all fire stations HFD says. The Kalihi Uka Fire Station was temporarily shut down on Tuesday after two fire fighters tested positive for COVID-19. KHON2.

Mom of hospitalized Waikiki bartender also tests positive for COVID-19. The mother of the Waikiki bartender currently on life support with COVID-19 has also tested positive for the coronavirus disease. Star-Advertiser.

Navy envisions major development near Pearl Harbor rail station. The Navy, as part of an ambitious public-private partnership, envisions a major development near a future rail station that includes 2.3 million square feet of low-, medium- and high-rise residential and commercial space, a high-rise hotel and pedestrian walkways over the H-1 Freeway and Kamehameha Highway connecting it all with Pearl Harbor. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Kim rescinds plastic bag ban: COVID-19 emergency prompts new actions. Mayor Harry Kim issued his third Supplementary Emergency Proclamation late Wednesday, suspending the ban on single-use plastic bags, among other actions. West Hawaii Today.

Mayor Kim Suspends Plastic Bag Reduction Law. Hawaiʻi County Mayor Harry Kim signed a Third Supplementary Emergency Proclamation on Wednesday in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Big Island Video News.

Mayor Harry Kim made a third emergency proclamation Wednesday, a portion of which suspends Hawai‘i County’s ban on single-use plastic bags for the next 60 days. Big Island Now.

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Police arrest nine people for violating stay-at-home order. The Hawaii Police Department arrested nine people for not sheltering in place during the past week. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaiʻi National Guard Ready, PPE Arrives In Hilo. Currently, the guard is doing planning and logistics in support of the state during this stage of the COVID-19 pandemic. Big Island Video News.

Hilo Municipal Golf Course closed due to virus. The Hawaii County Department of Parks and Recreation announced the closure effective Wednesday in a press release issued Tuesday afternoon. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Web Stream: Maui Mayor Provides Update on COVID-19, April 1, 2020, 4 p.m. Maui Now.

At least 40 citations issued for violations of new rules. Police have issued at least 40 citations for violating emergency stay-at-home rules, with many of the violations occurring at beaches in the Kihei area, police said Tuesday. Maui News.

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Maui Health treating first COVID-19 patient. Maui Health is treating its first confirmed COVID-19 patient, the hospital operator said Wednesday morning. Maui News.

Maui Health is Treating its First COVID-19 Positive Patient. Maui Health today acknowledged that it is treating its first patient confirmed by the Hawaiʻi State Department of Health as having COVID-19. Maui Now.

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Councilmember Molina Requests a Comprehensive Affordable Housing Plan. His resolution asks Council Chair Alice Lee to issue a Request For Proposals for the compilation of a plan to assess and review. Maui Now.

Maui Bus adjusts schedules, routes. Starting today, the county is suspending three Maui Bus commuter routes and adjusting schedules for other routes because of significant decreases in passengers caused by COVID-19. Maui News.

Kauai

No new cases on Kaua‘i. Kaua‘i officials confirmed Wednesday that no new COVID-19 cases have been reported since March 29 on the island, though the number of cases statewide continues to climb. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i 2020 Census reporting falling behind. Only 19.8% of households in Kaua‘i have responded to the 2020 Census since it opened last month. That’s almost two times less than the national average of 38.4%, as reported by the U.S. Census Bureau. Garden Island.

Anahola market open. The Saturday market emerged in the face of farmers markets closing due to COVID-19 concerns. Garden Island.

Thursday, July 27, 2017

Hearings officer gives thumbs-up for Thirty Meter Telescope, Kauai man gets 4 years prison for harassing monk seal, 3-hour wait in line for Dunkin' Donuts, Honolulu $1.5M in arrears in collecting subsidized rents, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2017 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Telescopes on Mauna Kea © 2017 All Hawaii News
The Thirty Meter Telescope received a positive recommendation from hearings officer Riki May Amano, buoying the beleaguered project’s chances less than a year from a self-imposed construction deadline. Tribune-Herald.

A former Hilo judge is recommending the controversial Thirty Meter Telescope project be granted a key state permit for work atop Mauna Kea, ending a lengthy contested case hearing that challenged the $1.4 billion project’s conservation district use permit. Star-Advertiser.

A construction permit should be granted for the Thirty Meter Telescope proposed for the summit of Mauna Kea on Hawaii Island, a hearings officer recommended Wednesday. Associated Press.

A retired Hawaii judge is recommending that the state land board approve a permit for the Thirty Meter Telescope, which would allow construction of the $1.4 billion observatory to proceed on a site atop Mauna Kea on the Big Island. Pacific Business News.

The hearing officer in the Thirty Meter Telescope contested case hearing has issued her decision, and is recommending a Conservation District Use Permit be granted, allowing the observatory to be built on Mauna Kea. Big Island Video News.

A former Circuit Court judge has recommended that the controversial Thirty Meter Telescope project be allowed to move forward atop Mauna Kea. Hawaii News Now.

A hearings officer is recommending that a construction permit be granted for a giant telescope planned for a Hawaii mountain summit that some consider sacred. KITV.

The contested case hearing officer for the Thirty Meter Telescope is recommending that the controversial project move forward. KHON2.

Read the judge's full 305-page Thirty Meter Telescope report here.

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Community Services Block Grants: $3.7M Funding Uncertain. A joint legislative committee conducted a hearing on the status of federal funding for impoverished residents throughout the state. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii residents can stay up-to-date on more than 170 highway and road projects with a new interactive online map unveiled this week by the state Department of Transportation. Star-Advertiser.

Matson Inc. plans to speed up its ocean cargo service to the Republic of the Marshall Islands early next year. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

A federal program administered by Honolulu to subsidize rents for low-income people has $1.55 million in delinquent accounts but doesn’t have a debt collector, according to a city audit released this week. Civil Beat.

Officials with Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s administration told the City Council Public Works, Infrastructure and Sustainability Committee on Wednesday that they will look at ways of expanding sewer capacity on Oahu in response to concerns that applicants for accessory dwelling units are being turned away because of the limitation. Star-Advertiser.

Two Honolulu City Council members have introduced legislation that would ban cigarette smoking in motor vehicles carrying children under 18. Star-Advertiser.

A new bill introduced by two Honolulu City Councilmen takes aim at smoking in vehicles while a minor is present. Hawaii News Now.

City council considers banning smoking in vehicles in presence of minors. KHON2.

Using an electronic device while crossing the street on Oahu will soon be illegal. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell is expected to sign into law Bill 6 Thursday, which bans pedestrians from using cell phones and other electronic devices while crossing the street. Hawaii News Now.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell will sign Bill 6 into law Thursday afternoon. The law makes it illegal to look at a cellphone or other electronic devices while crossing a street or highway on Oahu. KITV.

It could soon cost businesses more to sell alcohol on Oahu. That’s because the fee to hold a liquor license may be going up, in some cases double what it is now. KHON2.

Group Pushes Street-Level Rail For Honolulu. Salvage the Rail proposes ditching the over-budget elevated railway plan in much of the city. Civil Beat.

On Oahu, the latest report by the Honolulu Board of Realtors found there was 2.7 months of remaining inventory for single-family homes and 2.8 months of remaining inventory for condos, meaning that if no more listings came on the market, the homes would sell out in that amount of time. Those numbers have been less than three months for nearly a year. Pacific Business News.

Olomana golf course appeals to state, military on flooding and late rent. Star-Advertiser.

The Diamond Head Lighthouse that stands today has been a lifesaving navigational beacon for the past 100 years, preventing vessels from running aground on the jagged reef over which it presides. Star-Advertiser.

Hundreds of Honolulu residents waited up to three hours Wednesday morning to get their hands on freshly made Dunkin' Donuts at the company’s opening of the first Hawaii store in more than 10 years. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Smoke caused evacuation of the control room of the Keck 2 telescope atop Mauna Kea Wednesday afternoon. Tribune-Herald.

After months of planning and discussion, Hawaii County is moving forward with plans to clean up the Old Airport Park. West Hawaii Today.

A smarter, stronger, more reliable electrical grid is the goal of Hawaiian Electric’s modernization plan to be discussed during two public meetings next week on Hawaii Island. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Wide loads of materials for the Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope will close Haleakala’s summit to visitors from 10 p.m. Tuesday through 2 p.m. Wednesday, according to an announcement from the National Park Service. Maui News.

County considering an expansion of ag park with former sugar land. Maui News.

Hawaiian Airlines is seeking candidates for customer and ramp service contract positions at Kahului Airport. Maui Now.

Building A ‘Farewell Place’ For Maui Pet Owners. A woman gathers a group of volunteers to construct a facility at the Humane Society where people can say goodbye. Civil Beat.

Kauai

A 20-year-old Eleele man has been sentenced to four years in prison for harassing a pregnant Hawaiian monk seal on Kauai. Star-Advertiser.

Fifth Circuit Judge Kathleen Watanabe on Wednesday sentenced 20-year-old Shylo Kaena Akuna of Lihue to serve four years in prison for harassing a critically endangered Hawaiian monk seal last year at Salt Pond Beach Park in Hanapepe, Kauai. Civil Beat.

A Lihue man accused of beating up a monk seal will serve four years in prison. Garden Island.

County approves collective bargaining agreement. Some Kauai council members do not believe it is the right time to approve firefighter raises. Garden Island.

The Department of Land and Natural Resources removed nearly 11 tons of garbage from the Napali Coast in ongoing efforts to clean up the area DLNR officials reported Wednesday. Hawaii News Now.

Wednesday, July 19, 2017

Hawaii Gov. Ige unpopular in poll, state tries to grow teachers, Hurricane Fernanda weakening, Honolulu condo fire investigation continues, Hawaii County cracking down on alcohol at beaches, Police Commission secrecy, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2017 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Hawaii Gov. David Ige © 2017 All Hawaii News
A new state-by-state poll ranks Hawaii’s governor among the least popular chief executives in the country. Gov. David Ige, according to a Morning Consult poll, has an approval rating of just 48 percent in the islands. Civil Beat.

To help address the state’s perennial shortage of qualified public school teachers, the Department of Education is launching a pilot program aimed at encouraging educators already in classrooms, such as educational assistants, to become licensed teachers with a stipend incentive. Star-Advertiser.

The state Department of Education closed out 11 employee misconduct investigations during the past three months, resulting in five terminations and one resignation in lieu of termination, according to data shared Tuesday with the state school board. Star-Advertiser.

Hurricane Fernanda continues to weaken as the forecast brings it close to the Hawaiian islands. At 5 a.m. Wednesday, the storm was still a Category 1 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 85 mph. Hawaii News Now.

Last week, Gov. David Ige officially vetoed 13 bills that were passed during the 2017 legislative session, including one that takes away lifeguards’ protection against lawsuits. Garden Island.

Cameron Nekota, a Hawaii real estate veteran who helped to spearhead D.R. Horton-Schuler Homes’ 11,750-home Hoopili project, has joined First Hawaiian Bank, overseeing the bank’s real estate and government affairs. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Fire Sprinkler Retrofit Mandate Will Hit Affordable Housing. City Lawmakers will be considering a bill next month that could require the installation of fire sprinkler systems in older residential condominiums. Hawaii Public Radio.

The high-rise fire that killed three residents and seriously injured five others damaged more than a third of the apartments in the 36-story Marco Polo, the Honolulu Fire Department said Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Investigation into fatal Marco Polo fire expands to include other agencies. Hawaii News Now.

Fire investigators from Hawaii island arrived in Honolulu today with an arson dog to search for ignitable liquids in the apartment where a deadly high-rise blaze broke out last week. Star-Advertiser.

Fire investigators from the Big Island have arrived in Honolulu with an arson dog to search for ignitable liquids in the apartment where a deadly high-rise blaze broke out last week. Associated Press.

New details from fire officials paint the dangerous, and ultimately deadly, scenario at Marco Polo as changes are considered that could prevent a future disaster. KHON2.

Local musicians to host benefit concert for displaced Maro Polo residents. Hawaii News Now.

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The Honolulu Police Commission is scheduled to hold closed-door hearings Wednesday to decide whether taxpayers should pay the legal fees of two officers who were sued in relation to an ongoing U.S. Justice Department corruption investigation tied to former Chief Louis Kealoha. But legal experts, including the only two lawyers who sit on the commission, say the public and the media should not be barred from the proceedings. Civil Beat.

Several petitions are circulating urging the Caldwell administration to remove 11 traffic bulb-outs or curb extensions that were installed along key intersections of Chinatown several weeks ago. Designed as a traffic-calming measure, a bulb-out extends the sidewalk at an intersection, thus shortening the distance a pedestrian needs to cross. Star-Advertiser.

State enforcement officers say Hawaii's booming tourism industry is encouraging more and more illegal commercial activity in state ocean waters. Hawaii News Now.

In June, sales of single-family homes in the Windward Oahu neighborhoods of Kaneohe and Kailua increased by 60 percent and 23 percent, respectively, while the median price decreased, according to a local market update by the Honolulu Board of Realtors. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

The Hawaii County Council advanced a bill Tuesday banning alcohol at James Kealoha Beach Park in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

As the county considers a crackdown on drinking at a popular Hilo park, some West Hawaii residents say they don’t think the issue’s out of control at parks and beaches on their side. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Island drivers are guaranteed to see a boost in gas prices Aug. 1 as higher fuel taxes take effect. Tribune-Herald.

A 9-year-old Hilo girl whose parents and grandmother are alleged to have starved her to death last year was on the radar of Child Welfare Services since at least 2007, according to court documents. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii’s state-funded aerospace center will share a $118,690 NASA Small Business Technology Transfer grant with New York-based Honeybee Robotics Ltd. to develop an in-situ resource utilization technology to convert natively sourced materials into usable resources, according to the state Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism. Pacific Business News.

The Daniel K. Inouye College of Pharmacy will start the new school year for the first time with a full eight-year accreditation under its belt, though completion of its new building could be pushed back further into 2018. Tribune-Herald.

The developer of a more than $1 billion planned residential community on Hawaii Island filed for bankruptcy last month in the face of two foreclosure actions that threaten to repossess land slated for the 2,300-home project called Villages of Aina Lea. Star-Advertiser.

A Big Island resort hotel has been named "Best Hotel in Hawaii" by price comparison platform HotelsCombined. Kolea at Waikoloa Beach Resort beat out four other Hawaii finalists to win the top honor. Pacific Business News.

Maui

Maui County Mayor Alan Arakawa, who has been playing softball since the 4th grade, recently came under fire from the state Campaign Spending Commission for using campaign funds to support senior softball teams he played on, managed and sponsored. Maui News.

Critics of a controversial development proposed in South Maui plan to voice their concerns when the state Land Use Commission meets on Wednesday and Thursday to review the Final Environmental Impact Statement. Hawaii News Now.

A Stage 1 water shortage declaration for Upcountry, which calls for voluntary cutbacks by consumers, goes into effect today due to drier-than-normal trade wind flows so far this summer. Maui News.

A man broke into a Makawao store early Monday morning, stealing hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of shell lei, handmade by Niihau residents, the store owner said Tuesday. Maui News.

Kauai

Pilot stops on Kauai while retracing Earhart’s final voyage. Garden Island.

The West Kauai Business Association will host a community meeting Monday at the Waimea Historic Theatre. Justin Kollar, prosecuting attorney, and representatives from the YWCA will be on hand to talk about domestic violence. Garden Island.

The Kauai-based owners of Brick Oven Pizza are selling their four Oahu restaurants — including one opening next month at The Howard Hughes Corp.’s Ward Village in Honolulu — in order to focus on their Garden Isle business. Pacific Business News.

Tuesday, July 11, 2017

Hawaii soldier arrested in ISIS terrorism probe, Ige signs income tax changes, Honolulu tackles plastic bag ban loophole, California man jumps to his death at Kilauea volcano, new liquor rules for Maui, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2017 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Polynesian Cultural Center © 2017 All Hawaii News
The Polynesian Cultural Center has been voted as the top must-see attraction in Hawaii by USA Today’s 10 Best Readers’ Choice Poll. Pacific Business News.

In a case alleging homegrown terrorism, a Schofield Barracks soldier from Hawaii remained in federal custody Monday on accusations that he attempted to provide classified military documents, a drone and combat training to Islamic State — a group to which he is said to have pledged loyalty. Star-Advertiser.

An active duty soldier based in Hawaii pledged his allegiance to the Islamic State group, helped purchase a drone for it to use against American forces and said he wanted to use his rifle to “kill a bunch of people,” according to an FBI affidavit. Associated Press.

An active duty Hawaii soldier who was arrested for allegedly trying to provide material support and training to the Islamic State told an undercover federal agent Saturday that he wanted to kill "a bunch of people." Hawaii News Now.

Kaiser grad accused of affiliation with ISIS made first Federal court appearance. KITV.

An active-duty soldier assigned to Schofield Barracks appeared in federal court Monday on terrorism charges. KHON2.

Born and raised in Waimanalo, Ikaika Kang graduated from Kaiser High School in 2001. Star-Advertiser.

The father of a Hawaii soldier who was arrested for allegedly trying to offer support and training to Islamic State says he's shocked to hear the allegations, and believes his son may be suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. Hawaii News Now.

The charges against the US soldier accused of pledging his loyalty to ISIS stunned his family. KITV.

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Gov. David Ige approved a new law Monday that increases income tax rates for the state’s wealthiest residents while also creating a new state earned income tax credit to ease the state tax burden on some of Hawaii’s poorest working families. Star-Advertiser.

A new law to provide relief to low income workers in Hawaii was signed today. Hawaii Public Radio.

Tax relief for Hawaii's low income working families. That's on the horizon next year in the way of a food tax credit. KITV.

Hawaii Gov. David Ige expressed support for raising the state’s transient accommodations tax by 1 percent while maintaining the counties’ share of hotel room taxes at $93 million. Associated Press.

The state Legislature will convene for five days starting August 28th 2017 to hammer out a financial plan for Honolulu’s rail transit project. Hawaii Public Radio.

The state House and Senate will not hold a special session to override bills on Gov. David Ige’s intent-to-veto list. Garden Island.

The Democratic Party of Hawaii has launched its nationwide “Summer of Resistance and Renewal” program to engage and motivate party members and activists from the grass roots. Garden Island.

Gov. David Ige was one of more than 5,000 Hawaii residents who submitted letters and petitions in support of the Papahanau­mokuakea National Marine Monument during the 60-day comment period for the Trump administration’s review of 27 national monuments created by previous presidents. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Telcom Inc. is merging with Cincinnati Bell in deal worth $650 million, the two companies announced Monday. Pacific Business News.

Once again the change in ownership of one of Hawaii’s top utilities will wind up in the hands of the state Public Utilities Commission. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

The Honolulu City Council will consider a bill Wednesday to close a loophole in the plastic bag ban that currently allows the use of thicker plastic checkout bags. Civil Beat.

A conceptual plan for an upgraded Blaisdell Center complex calls for extending Victoria Street down to Kapiolani Boulevard, building a new exhibition hall, renovating both the arena and the concert hall, and creating more parking and green space. Star-Advertiser.

Mokauea Island, a 13-acre island known as Oahu’s last Hawaiian fishing village, is threatened by pollution and rising sea levels, while the handful of residents face uncertainty about their long-term lease with the state. Civil Beat.

Construction begins to expand popular homeless shelter on Sand Island. Hawaii News Now.

Alexander & Baldwin, one of Hawaii’s largest owners of commercial real estate, said Monday that it is converting to a real estate investment trust and has hired an experienced REIT executive to serve as the Honolulu-based company’s chief financial officer. Pacific Business News.

Frustration over illegal fishing is growing in a Windward Oahu community, and some Waimanalo residents say they're stepping up their own efforts to help stop the problem. Hawaii News Now.

Civil Beat has set up a webcam overlooking an endangered seal and pup's temporary home on Kaimana Beach and will be livestreaming the scene during daylight hours for the next few weeks. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

The father of a 38-year-old Petaluma, Calif., man whose body was recovered by helicopter from Kilauea caldera early Sunday morning said his son left a suicide note in his backpack found Saturday night on Crater Rim Trail by a pair of visitors. Tribune-Herald.

A list of properties to be ranked for public purchase next year is dominated by North Kohala, which accounts for seven of the 12 properties on the list. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii County Council, on the verge of implementing a ban on polystyrene food containers on the Big Island, heard compelling arguments from both sides of the issue on Friday before postponing a vote on the matter. Big Island Video News.

Melting permafrost isn’t just an issue for the arctic. According to a new study, Mauna Kea’s last vestiges of frozen earth are in retreat. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Island first in the United States to go countywide with Blue Zones Project. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

After months of public backlash, the county Liquor Control Commission will take another look Wednesday at rules allowing 24-hour liquor sales, hostess bar caps and home delivery of alcohol — all changes that residents have said were put in place without public input and will hold consequences for the community. Maui News.

$350 M Kahului Airport CONRAC Gets Strong Bond Rating. Maui Now.

A senior affordable housing project consisting of two six-story buildings is proposed to take the place of A&B Properties’ long-delayed commercial mixed-use project across from Foodland in Kahului. Maui News.

The restrooms located at the summit visitor’s center of Haleakala National Park are temporarily closed due to a system malfunction. Maui Now.

Tournahaulers that once trucked sugar cane from the fields to the mill will be leaving Maui for good today. Maui News.

Kauai

A Kauai community group unhappy with the newest edition of the General Plan Update is trying to figure out how to move forward. Garden Island.

A public meeting on a new workforce housing project in Poipu is scheduled 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the Koloa Neighborhood Center. Garden Island.

Wednesday, July 5, 2017

Hawaii unlikely to give up voter rolls, state GOP organizes, feds say telecom deal illegal, Waikiki floatilla ends in chaos, Lehua poison drop delayed, little progress on special rail session, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

2014 courtesy photo
No vote no grumble campaign, 2014 courtesy photo
Gov. David Ige joined a chorus of other state leaders Monday in criticizing a White House commission’s request for a trove of personal voter data. Ige said the state doesn’t have any assurance that the information would be kept secure and, at this point, doesn’t think the state should share those records. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Unlikely To Cooperate With Trump’s Voter Fraud Panel. State law doesn’t allow for the sharing of personal information with the federal government. Civil Beat.

The 2018 Primary Election is a little more than a year away.  Hawaii Republicans are trying to organize for that election and win. Hawaii Public Radio.

Federal authorities announced Monday that a long-standing, exclusive agreement between the Hawaiian Homes Commission and embattled telecommunications provider Sandwich Isles Communications Inc. violates federal law, a decision that raises new doubts about the company’s future. Star-Advertiser.

Workers' comp insurance up in the air for medical marijuana dispensaries. Hawaii News Now.

The clock is ticking, but state lawmakers say they haven’t made much progress yet on a special session that’s supposed to solve the rail crisis. Star-Advertiser.

As federal officials crack down on illegal immigration, many in Hawaii’s faith community are mobilizing. Hawaii Public Radio.

In the first phase of a plan to significantly reshape how Hawaiian Electric Co. delivers power to some 450,000 customers statewide, the utility has unveiled a $205 million proposal to upgrade its electric grid over six years. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s solar industry slump continues, but representatives are hopeful batteries connected to solar energy systems will help the number of installations rebound. Star-Advertiser.

New Hawaii Law Bans Wildlife Trafficking. Maui Now.

Anyone following education news in the state lately knows there’s no shortage of plans for improving public schools. Civil Beat.

Following a hiatus of more than a decade, pregnant Marshallese women are coming to Hawaii late in their pregnancies, having their babies and then placing the newborns with mainland families for adoption under suspicious circumstances, health care providers, community advocates and others say. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Wastewater is flowing across the sand and sidewalks and into the ocean along a popular stretch of beach, exposing unwitting beachgoers to potentially dangerous bacteria, an environmental watchdog alleges. Star-Advertiser.

Lifeguards estimate 8,000 to 10,000 people attended the annual Independence Day “floatilla” off Waikiki, hundreds had to be rescued from the water. Star-Advertiser.

A so-called July Fourth "floatilla" party off Waikiki quickly dissolved into chaos Tuesday afternoon, with hundreds being rescued from the water and at least 10 people taken to hospitals with alcohol-related injuries. Hawaii News Now.

Hundreds gathered Tuesday at Iolani Palace to participate in a dramatic re-enactment of events that 123 years ago led to the completion of the overthrow of the independent nation of Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Katherine Kealoha, a Honolulu city prosecutor who’s under federal criminal investigation for alleged corruption and abuse of power, has been on unpaid leave since late April. Civil Beat.

The Howard Hughes Corp. plans to include micro-units in its next mixed-use condominium project at its Ward Village master-planned community in Honolulu's fast-growing Kakaako neighborhood, with studio units starting at less than 300 square feet. Pacific Business News.

After 18 years, The Pineapple Room by Alan Wong located in Macy’s at Ala Moana Center will serve its last meal on July 29. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii County might soon clamp down on drinking at James Kealoha Beach Park, also known as 4 Mile. Tribune-Herald.

Repairs to the Keahuolu Deepwell are expected to be completed Sunday, the County Department of Water Supply said. West Hawaii Today.

A House bill that would allow tiny houses to be built on Hawaii County ag land is on the governor’s veto list after being passed by the state Legislature. Big Island Video News.

Federal judge breathes new life into lawsuit: Do public housing tenants have a personal right to seek legal redress to their complaints, or must they rely on government agencies to defend their tenant rights? West Hawaii Today.

A 64-year-old Hilo man accused of sexually assaulting a woman Friday morning in Orchidland Estates is a driver for Arc of Hilo and the alleged victim, an adult, was mentally unable to consent to sex and physically unable to resist, according to court documents filed by police. Tribune-Herald.

A county funded community collaboration in lower Puna aims to find new solutions to the rapid ohia death problem. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii Tribune-Herald won 14 awards, including four first-place honors, in the annual journalism contest put on by the Hawaii chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists. Tribune-Herald.

Maui


The president of Kaiser Permanente Hawaii said Monday that the transition of three Maui County hospitals from state control to management by the nonprofit health care company “exceeded our expectations.” Pacific Business News.

Council panel reviewing bills on sand mining: An official from Maui Lani Partners said Monday that the company has been “taking material off-site since 1994” and that the county’s warning to stop grading and excavating sand two months ago “was the first time we were made aware there was a notice of warning on a potential violation on the property.” Maui News.

Protecting the watershed at the Kula Forest Reserve and the Kahikinui Forest Reserve’s Papa’anui tract through land acquisition, public hunting of pigs, deer and goats and forest monitoring is the top priority in a draft reserve management plan released by the state Division of Forestry and Wildlife. Maui News.

Kauai

Poison drop scheduled for Lehua awaiting permits. Garden Island.

Volunteers to hike to Alakai Swamp to band birds. Garden Island.

Wednesday, May 10, 2017

Movie criticized for white actor portraying Native Hawaiian hero, active hurricane season expected, trial begins in fireworks bunker explosion, liquor sales and hostess bars big issues on Maui, OHA called secretive, plastic bags and polystyrene at issue, PUC rejects HELCO power plant purchase, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Photo: US Army Signal Corps/University of Hawaii at Manoa Library
Benehakaka Kanahele honored at ceremony. Photo: US Army Signal Corps/University of Hawaii at Manoa Library
In a move that's prompting growing condemnation, New York actor Zach McGowan has been cast as the Native Hawaiian hero in an upcoming movie about the Battle of Niihau. Hawaii News Now.

Movie under fire for casting Caucasian actor as real-life Native Hawaiian war hero. The movie, called “Niihau,” is  based on the true story of Benehakaka “Ben” Kanahele, a Native Hawaiian WWII hero who received a Medal for Merit and a Purple Heart. KHON2.

Forecasters say Hawaii is likely to see an active hurricane season if signs of a developing El Nino continue to hold true. Star-Advertiser.

Members of the LGBT community are more likely to suffer health problems than heterosexuals in Hawaii, according to a new state Department of Health report. Star-Advertiser.

A new report identifies 42 government agencies across the country that have poor practices when it comes to online spending transparency. One of them is the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, the only city, county or state agency named from Hawaii. Civil Beat.

Residents Rally to Voice Displeasure at State Capitol. Hawaii Public Radio.

The mayors of Kauai, Maui, and Hawaii counties are proposing property tax increases to cover rising costs and state cuts. Hawaii News Now.

Starting next school year, 52 public schools will serve free breakfast and lunch to all 25,000 children in their schools, regardless of a family’s ability to pay, as the Department of Education expands its free-meals program to benefit more low-income communities. Star-Advertiser.

There will be an estimated demand for 65,000 housing units by 2025 in Hawai’i. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaiian Telcom reported a net loss of $2 million, or 17 cents per diluted share for the first quarter ending March 31. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

The Honolulu City Council on Wednesday will consider a measure that aims to increase the number of lower-priced homes built near the rail line. Civil Beat.

The City Council's Zoning Committee will likely place a hold on plans to build a 26-story condo transit-oriented development project on Sheridan Street. Hawaii News Now.

The criminal trial against a company accused of mishandling fireworks involved in a deadly 2011 Hawaii explosion is about reckless disregard for the law and safety, a federal prosecutor told jurors today. Star-Advertiser.

The criminal trial against a company accused of mishandling fireworks involved in a deadly 2011 Hawaii explosion is about reckless disregard for the law and safety, a federal prosecutor told jurors Tuesday. Associated Press.

In opening statements Tuesday, federal prosecutors said a company and one of its executive tied to a 2011 Waikele bunker blast that killed five employees showed a "reckless disregard" for safety. Hawaii News Now.

It Looks Like Political Insiders Will Help Pick The Next Honolulu Police Chief. Concerns are being raised about the lack of Native Hawaiians, Micronesians and other groups on a citizen selection committee organized by the Honolulu Police Commission. Civil Beat.

Octogenarian among Section 8 tenants told to vacate affordable units. Hawaii News Now.

The University of Hawaii at Manoa's 35-year-old practice gyms for basketball and volleyball wil‎l receive $9.3 million-$12 million in renovation and improvements. Star-Advertiser.

A group of volunteers plans to move forward with maintenance and repair efforts at the dilapidated Sunset Memorial Park in Pearl City even after a bill died in the Legislature that was intended to protect them from liability. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii state Department of Health has fined the City and County of Honolulu and Southland Mole JV a combined $700,000 for Clean Water Act violations associated with the construction of a sewer tunnel between Kaneohe and Kailua. Pacific Business News.

Some plastic bags are already banned on Oahu --  but environmentalists and a Honolulu Councilman want to block even more plastic from the check out stand. KITV.

A real-life K-drama involving a roughly $50 million retail complex on Keeaumoku Street has taken a new turn with fresh allegations of fraudulent ownership after a federal judge recently decided what should happen to the property. Star-Advertiser.

Michael Titterton, the former president and general manager of Hawaii Public Radio, has been named president of the Hawaii Symphony Orchestra. Pacific Business News.

A retired University of Hawaii associate professor, who was once the rallying point for academic freedom after being fired for expressing views against the Vietnam War in the 1960s, has died. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

The state Public Utilities Commission has denied Hawaii Electric Light Co.’s request to buy the Hamakua Energy Partners power plant. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii Public Utilities Commission has rejected an application by a subsidiary of Hawaiian Electric Co. to purchase a Big Island power plant for more than $86 million, saying the benefits to customers would be “marginal.” Pacific Business News.

Resolution says infrastructure, public services lagging in Puna, Ka‘u despite civil rights ruling in 2000. Tribune-Herald.

A county public housing project is about to become the first on the island to ban smoking, and that’s causing problems for one resident, who’s considering a lawsuit if he’s barred from smoking medical marijuana in his home. West Hawaii Today.

Authorities have found the woman suspected of painting graffiti on a mountain held sacred by Native Hawaiians. Associated Press.

Ethics Board member Rick Robinson criticized the conduct of state official Edward Underwood, the administrator of the Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation, during a meeting in Hilo Tuesday. Big Island Video News.

Public hearing set for Saddle Road extension environmental impact statement. West Hawaii Today.

On Tuesday, current Hiroshima governor Hidehiko Yuzaki, along with members of the Hiroshima Prefectural Assembly, attended a rededication ceremony for a stone lantern donated to the garden in 1968 by the governor of Hiroshima Prefecture, and commemorated the centennial anniversary of the gardens themselves by planting a black pine. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Families of victims of drunken driving, recovering alcoholics and a former mayor were among about 50 people who all opposed the Maui County Liquor Control Commission’s decision in February to allow 24-hour retail sale of alcohol and to remove the cap on hostess bars in the county during a special meeting Tuesday. Maui News.

The Maui Liquor Commission convened today in Wailuku for a special meeting, prior to tomorrow’s regular session to review a request for a repeal of amendments relating to alcohol sales; and a petition to amend rules relating to hostess bars in Maui County. Maui Now.

Three months after the Maui Liquor Commission decided to allow liquor sales 24/7, many community members are fighting back. Dozens testified at a meeting Tuesday in Wailuku. KITV.

Maui residents spoke out Tuesday against changes to the county’s liquor laws. KHON2.

=====

The final environmental impact statement has been released for the proposed 75-acre Piilani Promenade, a housing and commercial project that’s been scaled back since the Kihei community objected to original plans for two megamalls. Maui News.

The majority of the 36 people who testified at Monday’s County Council meeting favored the ban on the sale and use of polystyrene containers, a staple of takeout food eateries, that is a step away from being approved. Maui News.

Maui Electric Co. will begin construction this month of its Kuihelani Substation near the intersection of Kuihelani Highway and Maui Lani Parkway. Maui News.

Kauai

Two members of the Kauai County Council are gearing up to propose a measure addressing single-use polystyrene, similar to a bill the Maui County Council took under consideration Tuesday. Garden Island.

Kaua'i residents are pleading with state officials to do more to crackdown on illegal camping in Kalalau Valley. KITV.

Brittany Steinbeck is determined to help open Alakai O Kauai Public Charter School by the next school year. Garden Island.

County offers free composting bins. County recycling team promotes recycling food scraps. Garden Island.

Hundreds celebrate John Lydgate’s life. Hundreds celebrate man who dedicated life to isle. Garden Island.