Lava takes more homes on trek to the sea, Case running for Congress, Hee bows out of gubernatorial race, councilman files ethics charge against Honolulu mayoral staff, more top news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Ed Case and wife Audrey during 2012 campaign ©2018 All Hawaii News

Ed Case Prepares To Enter Hawaii Race For Congress. The former congressman pulled papers to run Monday, the day before the filing deadline. Civil Beat.

Former Hawaii Congressman Ed Case is again vying to serve in the House of Representatives. Hawaii News Now.

Former Congressman Ed Case files papers to run for U.S. House. KHON2.

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Longtime Office of Hawaiian Affairs trustee and former state senator Clayton Hee is pulling out of the governor’s race due to financial considerations but is setting his sights on other political offices. Star-Advertiser.

Clayton Hee Withdraws From Hawaii Governor’s Race. The former state senator will instead seek his former legislative seat or make another bid for lieutenant governor. Civil Beat.

Kaniela Ing Faces More Campaign Finance Questions — This Time From Feds. Already accused of misspending state campaign funds, he now must answer to the Federal Election Commission regarding congressional campaign filings. Civil Beat.

Three landmark bills to combat climate change were signed into law today. Hawaii Public Radio.

Gov. David Ige signs 3 bills combating climate change into law. Star-Advertiser.

The prince and princess of Japan are in Hawaii this week to mark the 150th anniversary of Japanese immigration to the islands. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Honolulu City Councilman Trevor Ozawa has filed an ethics complaint alleging that one of Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s appointees used city resources to give Ozawa’s political rival a boost in the upcoming election. Star-Advertiser.

The Sierra Club of Hawaii criticized the state Department of Health on Thursday for its proposal to allow the Navy up to 20 years to upgrade underground storage tanks at the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility. Star-Advertiser.

Audit: Honolulu Parks Could Save Millions By Reducing Potable Water Use. Water usage increased 13 percent over three years, and there are formal plans to install more nonpotable fixtures at city parks. Civil Beat.

Arizona retiree Tom Askland believed so much in the unique design of a proposed tour boat that he invested more than $100,000 in the prototype vessel and the affiliated company created to build, market and sell the concept to customers around the world. Star-Advertiser.

A 20-year-old man arrested for allegedly beating two Japanese tourists in a Kakaako park bathroom is charged with two counts of first-degree assault. Star-Advertiser.

Bikeshare Hawaii, the non-profit behind Honolulu’s Biki bikeshare program announced today it is conducting a nationwide search for a new executive director to replace Lori McCarney. Star-Advertiser.

Jim Leahey, who painted a vivid word picture of Hawaii sports for listeners over 60 years as the state’s most recognizable radio and television broadcaster, confirmed his retirement. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Lava Has Now Destroyed 117 Big Island Homes. New helicopter footage shows lava entering the ocean at Kapoho Bay. Associated Press.

Lava from Kilauea volcano consumed dozens of additional homes and a beloved island destination Monday as the flow filled in Kapoho Bay and destroyed Champagne Ponds. Tribune-Herald.

'No stopping it': Lava claims dozens of homes as it flows to the ocean. Hawaii News Now.

Lava Enters Ocean in Kapoho Bay. Hawaii Public Radio.

Laze Hazard: Ocean Entry Plume at Kapoho Laden with Hydrochloric Acid. Maui Now.

The county’s second highest-ranking official said there are people remaining in Kapoho who have refused to evacuate despite a large lava flow nearby. County Managing Director Wil Okabe said this morning he saw a picture of a guy “still working in his yard.” Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County Civil Defense continues to coordinate the effort to evacuate, and in some cases rescue, the residents in the lava-inundated area of Kapoho, as Fissure 8 is sending a robust lava channel downslope to the ocean. Big Island Video News.

Two men arrested in unrelated incidents in areas of lower Puna inundated by lava made their initial appearances Monday in Hilo District Court. Tribune-Herald.

Website to centralize Big Island air quality reporting. Hawaii County, Hawaii County Civil Defense, the state Department of Health and the Environmental Protection Agency are working on a website where residents can check levels of sulfur dioxide being measured at air monitoring stations throughout Hawaii island. Star-Advertiser.

Vog continued to blanket West Hawaii on Monday and forecasters say the area is unlikely to see reprieve until Thursday, at the earliest. West Hawaii Today.

Volcano Byproducts Impact Solar Panels. Hawaii Public Radio.

Research says indoor plants improve air quality, combat vog. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to remain closed. West Hawaii Today.

Geothermal Plant And Its Neighbors Have Clashed For Decades. Lava flows threaten the plant’s destruction along with the property of many who have complained about the facility. Civil Beat.

Military’s Live-Fire Training Ignites Resistance From Some Big Island Neighbors. Pohakuloa Training Area, an Army-controlled site the size of Guam, is the largest U.S. military training ground in the Pacific. Civil Beat.

Maui

A pair of environmental groups filed suit Thursday to block a proposed Kahului sludge farm and power plant. Star-Advertiser.

The Sierra Club Maui Group and Maui Tomorrow are challenging Maui County and Anaergia Services’ proposed sludge farm and power plant along the Kahului shoreline by filing a lawsuit in Maui’s Environmental Court on Thursday. Maui Now.

Maui County has a set of old college dorms in mind for low-income housing. Star-Advertiser.


Kauai

The Kauai County Council approved an operating budget of $218 million for fiscal year 2018-19, while the Capital Improvements Project Budget is set at $40 million. Garden Island.

Concern for many of the issues facing Kauai is why Eleele resident Victoria Franks is running for the Kauai County Council. Garden Island.

Kauai Mayoral candidate Derek Kawakami opened his campaign headquarters on Rice Street on Friday. Garden Island.

New fissure spews lava and gas as Kilauea activity continues, Senate bill to improve volcano monitoring, 12k ash masks issued. Plus, congressional candidate to be fined for campaign finance violations, judge rules against Waikiki beachboys, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

New Fissure Opens In Leilani Estates, Lava Flows Generated. Big Island Video News.

A new lava fissure opened Thursday in Leilani Estates after a day of heavy air pollution in Pahoa and other parts of lower Puna that prompted closures of schools and a post office. Tribune-Herald.

Several fissures still actively spewing lava, emitting dangerous gases. Hawaii News Now.

A total of 21 fissures have appeared since May 3rd in Leilani Estates. The eruption has destroyed at least 25 homes, and lava has covered more than 115 acres of land. Hawaii Public Radio.

Here's where all of the fissures in lower Puna have opened up. Hawaii News Now.

Kilauea Eruption Prompts US Senate Action On Volcano Monitoring. The U.S. Senate passed a bill Thursday to upgrade the nation’s ability to monitor volcanoes and provide early warnings to those living in the shadows of their summits. Civil Beat.

Senate bill would unify all U.S. volcano monitoring activity. U.S. Sen. Mazie K. Hirono announced today that she and fellow U.S. Sens. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) and Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) have secured the Senate passage of a bill that improves the nation’s volcano monitoring and early-warning capabilities. Star-Advertiser.

Senate passes bill to upgrade volcano monitoring system. Tribune-Herald.

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In the last six months, the Department of Education opened 59 investigations into worker misconduct. Right now, 55 workers have an open case that's either being investigated or in the decision making process. KHON2.

State Rep. Kaniela Ing, a Democrat running in the 1st Congressional District of Hawaii, faces new allegations of misusing funds donated to his campaigns for the state House, including using campaign money for personal expenses. Hawaii News Now.

The staff of the state Campaign Spending Commission is recommending that state Rep. Kaniela Ing be fined more than $15,000 over an extensive list of violations he is attributing to clerical or bookkeeping mistakes — including misuse of campaign funds, filing false spending reports and exceeding campaign spending limits — going back three election cycles. Star-Advertiser.

Giant mounds of plastic waste wash up on Hawaii's beaches statewide, and it's usually coming from far away. What can be done to tackle this problem? KHON2.

The biggest potential public-schools win during this year’s legislative session is a proposal asking voters whether to establish a surcharge on investment real property to serve as a funding stream for Hawaii’s statewide system. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s unemployment rate has fallen to an all-time low of 2 percent — again. Star-Advertiser.

Trinity Merger Corp., a Hono­lulu-based special-purpose acquisition firm, said it raised $345 million through an initial public offering that closed Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric Co. said on Wednesday that Square Inc. executive Kevin Burke has been appointed to its board of directors. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Judge denies TRO in Waikiki beach concession dispute. Losing bidder Star-Beachboys Inc. will have to move out to make room for the winning bidder of the Waikiki beach concession contract. Star-Advertiser.

Judge refuses to protect Waikiki beach boy concessions. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell said today he may impose up to $1,000 fines or jail time for the owner or users of Lime electric scooters for illegally parking the rental vehicles on public sidewalks. Star-Advertiser.

The City and County of Honolulu is classifying Lime’s electric scooters as mopeds, and says the company is violating state and city laws by failing to register the vehicles. Pacific Business News.

These Blue Beach Chairs Are Riling The Ala Moana Regulars. When a luxury condo promises to “prepare the perfect beach day” for residents, some locals fear more commercialization of a favorite park. Civil Beat.

Toxic Lot In Maili May Finally Get Cleaned Up. PCBs have been awaiting cleanup for years at a contaminated lot near a residential neighborhood in West Oahu. Civil Beat.

State and city officials urged renters and homeowners who sustained flood damage to their homes in the mid-April deluge to report it by today to their respective county emergency management agencies. Star-Advertiser.

Farm and homeowner, Michael Tsuruda, says the April flood destroyed his irrigation system, 5,000 potted plants and caused $25,000 in damage to his farm. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Alarmingly high levels of volcanic gases early Thursday triggered closure of a half-dozen Puna schools, and authorities began distributing protective face masks in Puna and Kau in the wake of explosive Kilauea Volcano ash eruptions. Star-Advertiser.

More than 12,000 particulate-blocking masks were distributed to Puna and Kau residents in a six-hour span Thursday, thanks to a gift from Scotch Tape maker 3M, with swift help from Hawaii County Civil Defense, the American Red Cross Hawaii chapter, community volunteers and Hawaii’s famous coconut wireless network. Star-Advertiser.

Bigger belch at summit: Residents given masks to protect against ash. Tribune-Herald.

Vog symptoms showing up: Medical providers seeing more patients in recent days. West Hawaii Today.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Pacific Southwest Region has deployed emergency responders and air monitoring equipment as part of the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s federal response to the Kilauea volcanic eruption on Hawaii Island. Big Island Now.

Progress made in securing Puna Geothermal Plant, but work is 'not done yet'. Hawaii News Now.

Scientists study lava for clues to how volcano will behave. Associated Press.

Lava leaves Leilani Estates looking like a ghost town. New York Times.

New photos show dramatic widening of cracks in lower East Rift Zone. KHON2.

Vog hung heavy in the skies over Kailua-Kona Thursday — a trend likely to continue, based on all relevant data. West Hawaii Today.

It’s Nearly Impossible To Find A Place To Rent These Days. Lava refugees, forced from their homes by the volcano, are squeezing into every available space. Civil Beat.

Maui

A Maui County Council committee recommended approval Wednesday of a bill aimed at more enforcement of bed-and-breakfast operations. Maui News.

A public hearing on the Maui County Council’s proposed fiscal 2019 budget will be held at 9 a.m. Friday in the eighth-floor Council Chambers of the Kalana O Maui Building in Wailuku. Maui News.

The Commission on Water Resource Management, in a public meeting Tuesday, fined the Olowalu Water Company, Inc. of Maui the maximum allowable fine of $1,500 for construction of a concrete dam/spillway on the Olowalu Stream without a permit.  Maui Now.

Commission fines water company for unpermitted structure. Haiku landowner found in violation of water code. Maui News.

Kauai

As of Thursday, the state needs 58 more homeowners from Oahu and Kauai to report flood damage to the Federal Emergency Management Agency in order for the state to receive any money. Garden Island.

Military response formed for Kilauea volcano emergency as earthquakes rattle summit, plumes shoot into air, ash fallout warnings issued, plus $140M state psychiatric hospital plans unveiled, details on Akaka memorial service, new super PAC with rail ties, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Deputy Adjutant Gen. Gary Ishikawa, l, and Brig. Gen. Kenneth Hara address the media. PC: Big Island Video News

Hawaii governor forms command to 'streamline military response' to Kilauea volcano eruption on Big Island. Pacific Business News.

Joint Task Force 50 in position to support county government. Tribune-Herald.

Brig. Gen. Kenneth Hara spoke to media at the Keaukaha Military Reserve on Wednesday afternoon, announcing the approval of the request for the Joint Task Force 50. Big Island Video News.

Press Release: Gov. David Y. Ige has announced the formation of a Dual-Status Command, Joint Task Force 50 (JTF) in response to the Kilauea lava flow on Hawai‘i Island. Gov. Ige’s formal request to appoint Brig. Gen. Kenneth Hara was submitted on Tuesday, May 15 and approved by Secretary of Defense James N. Mattis earlier today. Governor's Office.

An explosive eruption from Kilauea's summit on Thursday morning sent an ash plume soaring some 30,000 feet into the air, and officials are warning that ash emissions will cover a large part of the Big Island. Hawaii News Now.

Explosive eruption at Kilauea summit; those in area advised to shelter in place amidst ash plume. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Volcano Observatory officials on Thursday confirmed that an explosive eruption occurred at the summit of Kilauea. As a result, the National Weather Service issued an ashfall advisory for the Ka'u District of the Big Island. Officials say the ash plume reached 25,000 feet. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiian Volcano Observatory reports that an explosive eruption at Kilauea summit has occurred at 4:17 a.m.. The resulting ash plume may affect the surrounding areas.  The wind may carry the ash plume north towards Kau, Volcano, Mt. View, Keaau and as far as Hilo. KITV.

A series of sharp, shallow earthquakes rattled the summit area of Kilauea volcano Wednesday morning, and the gray plume from an ash eruption at the summit crater continued to distribute volcanic ash as far away as Kau and Pahoa village. Star-Advertiser.

Earthquakes Batter Roads As More Ash Spews From Kilauea. The state is forming a joint task force to handle mass evacuations of the Puna district if lava flows cover major roads and isolates the area. Associated Press.

Emergency officials are keeping a close eye on Highway 11 after cracks appeared Wednesday on the road near the entrance to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. KHON2.

Kilauea’s summit was rocked by shallow earthquakes Wednesday as the volcano’s caldera inside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park subsides along with its magma chamber. Tribune-Herald.

Volcanic gas emissions remain elevated throughout the area downwind of the fissures, and magma continues to be supplied to the lower East Rift Zone. Big Island Video News.

Geologists: Kilauea is no Mount St. Helens. Hawaii News Now.

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A petition urging Hawaii Gov. David Ige to sign a bill into law that would prohibit the sale of sunscreens containing certain ingredients found to be harmful to marine life is gaining traction, having garnered close to its goal of 40,000 signatures. Pacific Business News.

New Super PAC With Pro-Rail Ties Emerges In Hawaii Elections. The group, All Hawaii Stand Together, has ties to the pro-rail Pacific Resource Partnership that has been a big player in past elections. Civil Beat.

The late U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka will lie in state at the Capitol rotunda Friday and Saturday and be eulogized during two public services and one private service before being laid to rest at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific at Punchbowl. Star-Advertiser.

The family of the late Sen. Daniel Akaka released new information on Wednesday concerning the schedule for his memorial service. Hawaii News Now.

Plans for the construction of a new Hawaii State Hospital facility were unveiled today. Hawaii Public Radio.

Architects, designers and state health officials Wednesday pledged that a new Hawaii State Hospital in Kaneohe would be more secure, safer for staff and better suited to help patients with mental health issues who are court ordered for treatment. Star-Advertiser.

Security upgrades planned at State Hospital in wake of high-profile escape. Hawaii News Now.

Press Release: Governor David Ige and the Hawaii Department of Health today unveiled the security features for a new, $140 million, state-of-the-art Hawaii State Hospital building to enhance the safety of patients, employees and the community. Governor's Office.

Health department director Dr. Virginia Pressler looks forward to retirement. Dr. Virginia Pressler announced last week that she will be retiring after three and a half years with the state Department of Health. KHON2.

Oahu

Lawsuit: Managers Took Bribes At Low-Income Rentals. Executives at a Hawaii property management company say the allegations are false and upsetting. Civil Beat.

Pacific Office Properties considering shutdown. A local company that owns three Honolulu office tower properties lost more money in the first quarter and let investors know its board is considering alternatives that could include dissolution. Star-Advertiser.

‘Lime’ Rental Scooters Invade Honolulu With Mixed Results. The new motorized rental scooters are appearing on sidewalks in Honolulu, but the mayor is not pleased. Civil Beat.

Honolulu home prices rose by 4 percent in April, and Hawaii’s largest market was one of the few in the United States where inventory is growing, according to the May National Housing Report from Re/Max. Pacific Business News.

“Faith Betrayed,” a Honolulu Civil Beat story about Guam’s reckoning with the torturous legacy of decades of sexual abuse by local priests, has been awarded the Sally Jacobsen International Perspective Award from the Associated Press Media Editors. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Lava burning up tourism: Economic impact to Hawaii Island could be worse than thought. West Hawaii Today.

No-Entry Zone Established for Hawaii Electric Light Crews in Leilani Estates. Big Island Now.

No-entry zone established for Hawaii Electric Light crews in Leilani Estates. KHON2.

The eruptions in lower Puna won't seem to let up as several older fissures continue to reignite, shooting lava into the air. Hawaii News Now.

Cultural practitioner performs oli (chant) in honor of goddess Pele. While the eruptions along the East Rift Zone and volcanic activity at Halemaumau Crater are awe-inspiring, they are also significant to the Hawaiian culture. KHON2.

The Hawaii Tribune-Herald donated warehouse space to the American Red Cross for its ongoing lava disaster relief efforts. Tribune-Herald.

Oahu Publications Inc., the parent company of the Honolulu Star-Advertiser and the Hawaii Tribune-Herald, is providing warehouse space to the American Red Cross in Hilo for the storage of goods to be used at its shelters. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

Preparing to serve up environmentally friendly plate lunches. Ban on polystyrene foam products takes effect Dec. 31. Maui News.

Vodka maker purchases Maui pineapple farm. Principals of a California-based maker and distributor of distilled spirits have bought a pineapple farm on Maui that was once part of a more than 100-year-old plantation. Star-Advertiser.

New ownership announced for Haliimaile Pineapple Co. Company acquisition ensures Maui Gold pineapple will continue. Maui News.

The owners of Haliimaile Distilling Co. have purchased Haliimaile Pineapple Co., producers of Maui Gold pineapple in Hawaii. Pacific Business News.

Hawaiian Airlines started new daily nonstop flights Wednesday between Maui’s Kahului Airport and San Diego International Airport. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

The County Council approved the purchase of property along the Hanalei River Wednesday. Garden Island.

Water quality has cleaned up in some areas on Kauai’s North Shore after the April floods, but the state Department of Health still has a brown water advisory for some places on the island. Garden Island.

Mud is smothering the coral in Hanalei Bay, according to one resident who explored the reef there Saturday. Garden Island.

Kauai's legislators are slated to be at the Lihue Business Association meeting 7:30 to 9 a.m. May 24 at Duke’s Canoe Club. Garden Island.

Hold onto your wallets--the Legislature's in session; Maui mayor's denial of sacred rocks draws ire; insecticide ban urged; bills die on deadline; Kim kills compost contract; rail car construction to resume; more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Capitol © 2017 All Hawaii News

State lawmakers are advancing a startling array of more than a dozen proposals this year to increase taxes or impose new levies on everything from marijuana and prepaid cellphones to rocks. Star-Advertiser.

Commentary: Residents, brace for a clear money grab by politicians. Star-Advertiser.

After a major legislative deadline, the number of bills still alive in the Hawaii Legislature has dwindled. Proposals to boost the use of batteries for renewable energy and take parts of the federal Affordable Care Act into state law are survived. But the variety of unusual proposals to solving homelessness — from setting up sanctioned campgrounds to allowing people to live in driveways — had a mixed fate. Associated Press.

Environmental activists are urging Hawaii lawmakers to implement a statewide ban on a widely used insecticide that’s been linked to disruptions in the brain development of babies and young children — a cause they say is all the more urgent now that President Donald Trump has assumed office and signaled his intent to curtail environmental regulations. Star-Advertiser.

A twice-defeated Senate bill that would allow media access during island disasters and emergencies has passed one committee and is on its way to the Senate Judiciary and Labor Committee. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Lodging and Tourism Association will host its second annual "Tourism Day at the Capitol" this week. KITV.

The state Legislature is considering taking money generated by the transient accommodations tax away from the counties. Garden Island.

The Board of Education has tapped an Iowa-based executive search firm to help it find and screen candidates for the schools superintendent position. Star-Advertiser.

The Board of Education is asking Hawaii residents for their input in choosing the state's new schools superintendent. Hawaii News Now.

Candidates are again being sought to fill a vacancy on the five-member Kamehameha Schools board of trustees after one of three finalists withdrew from the search. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii is ranked fourth among states with the highest percentage of millionaire households, according to the 2016 Phoenix Wealth & Affluent Monitor, a study released by Phoenix Marketing International. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Nearly three months after its halt, production of rail cars for the Honolulu rail project is about to start up again. KHON2.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell's affordable housing strategy aims to add up to 800 units per year. Pacific Business News.

One of the hottest areas for new housing production on Oahu could soon have a longer-lasting supply of moderate-priced homes for sale or rent — and at lower prices — if a state board adopts new rules recommended by its staff. Star-Advertiser.

A man in his 40s died Saturday morning after breaching a TSA security checkpoint at the Honolulu International Airport. Hawaii News Now.

A couple of shopping malls on O‘ahu are dealing with some of the challenges of middle age. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii

Mayor Harry Kim on Thursday signed a termination of a composting contract that was “deemed disadvantageous” to Hawaii County. Tribune-Herald.

As the days add up in the Thirty Meter Telescope contested case, so does the cost. As of Dec. 31, the state’s bill for the quasi-judicial hearing was $224,789.62, according to the Department of Land and Natural Resources. Tribune-Herald.

Using a wheelchair or walker to reach the best areas of Hawaii County parks will get easier. But it won’t happen overnight. Tribune-Herald.

Vog experts, health professionals and concerned citizens gathered in Kona for a seminar meant to answer one simple question: Is vog the greatest daily threat to the health of Hawaii Islanders? West Hawaii Today.

A former police officer charged with fatally striking a bicyclist is scheduled to appear in court for a fitness hearing Friday accompanied by an attorney still seeking assurances the county will pay for his defense. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Mayor Alan Arakawa is coming under fire from social media and elsewhere for saying in a televised “Hawaii News Now Sunrise” interview Friday that “there’s no such thing as sacred rocks.” Maui News.

Public scoping meetings have been scheduled for Alexander & Baldwin’s application to the state Board of Land and Natural Resources for a 30-year lease for water from streams in Nahiku, Keanae and Huelo. Maui News.

Jeanne Unemori Skog, the longtime head of the Maui Economic Development Board who began with the nonprofit 33 years ago, will step down in June, she announced Friday. Maui News.

Kauai

The County of Kauai will discuss a resolution that will allow the County Council to establish an investigating committee when it meets Wednesday. Garden Island.

When it comes to updating Rice Street, the Kauai Board of Realtors wants to hear what the community has to say. Garden Island.

Kauai has a new state district health officer. Garden Island.

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.

GMO battle moves to Hawaii Legislature, tax breaks for the dead, lawmaker promotes Hawaii marijuana brands, Gore to speak, breastfeeding moms could skip jury duty, Honolulu affordable housing plan falls through, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

GMO corn research in Hawaii, courtesy photo

 The fight over genetically engineered crops is spilling over onto the floor of the Hawaii State Capitol. On Thursday, state lawmakers filed a bill that would prohibit counties from restricting farming practices, including the use of genetically modified organisms, seen as a response to GMO-related laws Hawaii and Kauai counties adopted last year. Tribune-Herald.

Two state lawmakers want to strengthen Hawaii's Right to Farm Act by preventing counties from restricting agricultural technology, modern livestock production and ranching practices that are allowed under federal and state law. The bill was prompted by a Kauai County law that regulates genetically modified organisms and pesticide use and a Hawaii County law that bans new GMO crops. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Rep. Richard Onishi from the Big Island has introduced a bill that would give Hawaii’s 2001 Right to Farm Act more teeth. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island House of Representative Richard H.K. Onishi (Hilo, Keaau, Kurtistown, Pahala, Honoapu, Volcano) is calling for stronger protections for Hawaii’s farmers and ranchers by introducing a bill to strengthen Hawaii’s Right to Farm Act. Hawaii Reporter.

She promised she hasn’t inhaled, but House Majority Floor Leader Rida Cabanilla said she hopes to legalize cultivation, manufacturing and exporting of Marijuana and Marijuana food products in Hawaii to pay off the state’s billions of dollars in unfunded liabilities as well as make infrastructure repairs and fund public education and human services programs. Hawaii Reporter.

Imagine a day when Maui Wowie and Kona Gold are legitimate marijuana brands sold around the world, when Hawaii factories create legal products such as Maui Wowie cookies, cannabis-infused ice cream and marijuana macadamia nut chocolate candies. That day might not be far off if state Rep. Rida Caba­nilla (D, Ewa Beach-West Loch Estates) has her way. The lawmaker has introduced a bill that would lead to a plan to legalize cultivation of marijuana in Hawaii for sale and export to countries where usage is lawful. Star-Advertiser.

The state House of Representatives has introduced a package of bills aimed at improving operations of the Hawaii Health Connector, including one that would move the nonprofit organization under state control, House lawmakers said Thursday. Pacific Business News.

Leaders of two key committees in the Hawaii House say they plan to introduce a package of bills to help fix the state’s troubled health care exchange. The online insurance marketplace under President Barack Obama’s federal health care overhaul has had numerous problems, including a late start to open enrollment and few sign-ups. Associated Press.

Republican leaders in the Hawaii House say they're hopeful their package of bills proposing everything from voter referendums to limits on fee increases will be heard in a chamber dominated by Democrats. Associated Press.

A Hawaii House committee plans to debate a bill that would exempt breastfeeding mothers from jury duty. The bill is part of a package of measures from the Women's Legislative Caucus, a group of women who are lawmakers in the Senate and House. Hawaii News Now.

They are on the front lines protecting children against predators online.  But, here and elsewhere nationwide, those teams battling back child porn are often sorely underfunded and ill-equipped. KITV4.

Former Vice President Al Gore will visit Oahu in April to give a free public lecture on climate change as well as energy and water matters, University of Hawaii officials and Sen. Brian Schatz' office announced Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

An employee can collect workers' compensation for exposure to vog that aggravates an asthma condition, the Hawaii Supreme Court ruled Thursday. The Department of Education and the Labor Industrial Relations Appeals Board both denied a claim by Lynedon Van Ness. But in a 51-page unanimous ruling, the high court held that worsening of the 54-year-old man's asthma from the volcanic smog was related to his employment. Star-Advertiser.

In August, the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration  renamed one its facilities in Alaska that’s designed to warn large swaths of the coastal U.S. about impending tsunamis. The West Coast/Alaska Tsunami Warning Center would from then on be known as the National Tsunami Warning Center. The name change caused some angst within the ranks of NOAA, particularly for those who worked in the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center in Hawaii. Not only were there initial concerns about operations, but there was also worry that Hawaii’s center might not get as much funding anymore. Civil Beat.

The old saying that “land is power” is still relevant today, and is particularly true out here in the middle of the Pacific, where Hawai`i represents one of the smallest US states by land area. Here’s a brief look at how land is distributed across the main Hawaiian islands, and how it is used. Big Island Now.

Oahu

A $142 million deal to sell Honolulu’s public housing projects to a private developer collapsed Thursday, leaving gaping holes in the city’s budget and potentially submarining Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s ambitious plan to get some of the most chronic homeless off the streets. Civil Beat.

It’s a blow to a key Caldwell initiative, but it may be good for affordable housing. The city’s planned sale of its affordable housing properties has failed. Hawaii Independent.

The state has hired a mainland law firm to handle millions of dollars in environmental legal claims against Matson for last fall's massive molasses spill. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii House Majority Leader Scott Saiki has followed through on his promise to scrutinize the Hawaii Community Development Authority, introducing eight legislative measures that range from curbing the authority of the agency to getting rid of it altogether.  The state organization which manages development in Kakaako and Kalaeloa has been harshly criticized in recent months for approving a slew of new projects last year in Honolulu’s urban core. Civil Beat.

Glenn Martinez spent two days burying the hundreds of tilapia and koi that lived in a pond on his Wai­ma­nalo farm after the fish —worth thousands of dollars — mysteriously died Wednesday in one hour. Star-Advertiser.

It may not be the most pleasing to the eye, but sand bags strapped over large tarps equaled success at keeping scarce sand up against North Shore homes. KHON2.

Mall site blessed despite lack of lease. Construction on the first phase of the 1.4 million-square-foot regional mall Ka Makana Ali' in East Kapolei isn't slated to start until late this year. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii
When Ben Franklin said, “nothing can be said to be certain except death and taxes,” he apparently wasn’t talking about Hawaii County. A comparison of property owners claiming the county homeowner’s exemption against vital statistics from the state Department of Health has discovered 1,200 deceased people benefiting from the exemption, some for as long as 10 years. That’s according to county Real Property Tax Administrator Stan Sitko. West Hawaii Today.

A Big Island charter school principal says bullying is a growing concern on campus, but not among students or teachers. Connections Public Charter School principal John Thatcher said the Hawaii State Ethics Commission and its executive director, Les Kondo, have been so aggressive in their years-long investigation into a conflict-of-interest case that it amounts to bullying. Civil Beat.

Hualalai Academy will close its doors to students in all grade levels at the end of this school year. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa announced he will deliver his 2014 State of the County Address on Wednesday, Feb. 5, from 5 to 6 p.m. in the McCoy Studio Theater at the Maui Arts and Cultural Center. Maui Now.

Faced with a tight deadline, Maui County Council members wrestled well into Wednesday evening with a number of issues arising from the proposed 203-home Kahoma Village fast-track affordable housing project in Lahaina. Maui News.

Eight prosecutors from Mongolia are on Maui to learn about the U.S. judicial system and observe 2nd Circuit Court proceedings, as their country looks toward judicial reform. Maui News.

Kauai

Plans for the nearly 3,000 acres of Kauai agricultural land recently purchased by Tennessee billionaire Brad Kelley, one of the largest private landowners in the United States, call for keeping it predominately the way it is, the president of Kelley’s real estate holding and development company told Pacific Business News.

Green bulbs, shielded lights and a “common-sense,” turn-them-off approach. These are some of the tools Pacific Missile Range Facility is using in its continued effort to protect Kauai’s native and threatened seabirds. Garden Island.

The Department of Parks and Recreation invites the public to a meeting to discuss the restoration and future use of the Hanalei Courthouse facility. The meeting will be at 6 p.m. Tuesday at the Hale Halawai Ohana o Hanalei Community Center, 5-5299 Kuhio Highway. Garden Island.

Navy names destroyer for Inouye, Obama senior prom photos on Time, Ellison's ultra-luxury Lanai hotel approved, neighbor island economies catching up, Hawaiian Home Lands critics skeptical, vog spikes doctor visits, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Arleigh Burke-class destroyer at Pearl Harbor, courtesy U.S. Navy

The Navy destroyer USS Daniel Inouye will be sailing by mid-2018, carrying with it the name of a Japanese-American from Hawaii and evoking the heroism of a Medal of Honor recipient and the statesmanship of a 50-year U.S. senator. Star-Advertiser.

The U.S. Navy plans to name one of its ships after the late U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye of Hawaii. Associated Press.

The Department of Defense today announced that the Navy will name an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer after the late US Senator Daniel K. Inouye. Maui Now.

The Navy announced Thursday it will name one of its next two Arleigh Burke-class destroyers in honor of the late U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye. Garden Island.

The U.S. Navy names a destroyer for the late Sen. Daniel K. Inouye and the delegation begins to make its own mark, scoring some legislative successes in Congress this week. Civil Beat.

Despite the director's pledges to make tangible progress within six months on proposed changes, critics remained skeptical that recommendations contained in a recent audit of the state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands will lead to any meaningful reform in an agency long plagued with management and oversight problems.Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii is on track to join 27 other states that place annual inspections of all long-term care facilities on their respective websites, state long-term care ombudsman John McDermott said. Civil Beat.

Hawaii doctors are seeing more residents suffering from allergies and asthma because thick vog is aggravating their ailments. Star-Advertiser.

Sen. Brian Schatz announced Thursday that he's introducing legislation to fulfill a goal of the late-Sen. Daniel K. Inouye and retired Sen. Daniel Akaka. The bill would create a national memorial honoring Native American, Native Hawaiian and Alaska Native veterans. Civil Beat.

The neighbor island economies are continuing to gain on Oahu, setting the stage for the statewide economic expansion to continue through at least 2015, according to a forecast released today by the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island and the other neighbor islands are catching up steadily to the economic recovery first experienced on Oahu, according to a 42-page report released today by the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization. West Hawaii Today.

Are neighbor islands finally ready to catch the wave of recovery? A new University of Hawaii forecast says it's already happening, and gives a timetable for prosperity. Hawaii News Now.

Obama’s senior prom photos hit Time magazine. Kelli Allman (nee McCormack), a 1981 Punahou School graduate, saved her yearbooks, and they came in handy when Time magazine called to obtain “exclusively” Barack Obama’s 1979 senior prom photos, which appear in this week’s edition. The magazine identifies them as “previously unpublished photos.” Star-Advertiser.

State 5/24. Associated Press.

Oahu

The public got its first look at massive development proposal for Kakaako on Thursday. KITV4.

Imagine Kakaako being more like Denver or Portland. That’s what the Hawaii Community Development Authority envisions. They are sharing that vision with the public who are not completely sold on the ideas. KHON2.

One of the biggest gripes the Honolulu City Council has about Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s operating budget was that it didn’t do enough to restore bus service. Civil Beat.

While canoe paddlers usually spend the final weeks of May fine-tuning their technique, form and timing, a pesky wastewater problem in one of the sport's most heavily used venues has canoe clubs and organizations focusing on flushing out an answer. Star-Advertiser.

The city of Honolulu knows who secretly carted in cement and steel and illegally built a skateboard bowl on city park property on the North Shore, and how much it will cost to tear it down. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

Problems might delay opening of new dorm. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County will have to go back into arbitration over a Waikoloa workforce housing project contract, the state Supreme Court ruled Wednesday. West Hawaii Today.

Young Brothers’ cargo volume between Honolulu and six neighbor island ports dropped nearly 4 percent during the first quarter of this year, a report issued Thursday said. West Hawaii Today.

Lehman Brothers was the top bidder earlier this week in the auction of 5,800 acres of land in Ka‘u that went into foreclosure. Tribune-Herald.

Maui
Real property tax rates will increase beginning July 1 after the Maui County Council on Wednesday morning approved a resolution setting the higher rates for fiscal 2014. Maui News.

While developers of the 670-acre Honua'ula golf community have made efforts to meet a number of the 30 conditions set by the Maui County Council when the project's zoning was approved in 2008, some community groups said on Tuesday that many critical conditions have still not been met. Maui News.

Maui Dry Dock & Boat Storage, a consortium of five commercial boat operators, is seeking a 55-year lease on about 1.2 acres of state land adjacent to the Kahului Boat Ramp to develop a vessel haul out, trailer storage and other facilities. Maui News.

A 65-year-old Pearl City woman is accusing the Salvation Army of transferring a sexual predator from Oahu to Maui more than 50 years ago after he sexually assaulted her as a child. Maui News.

"It's different when your name is on the door," said freshman Hawai'i State Rep. Mark Kaniela Ing, recalling his first term on the job. Maui Weekly.

Kauai

Early education and transportation infrastructure improvements were some of the main achievements of Kauai’s delegation at this year’s Legislature, according to state lawmakers. Garden Island.

In celebration of its 20th anniversary and in an effort to give back to the communities it serves, AdvoCare International, a health and wellness company based in Plano, Texas, recently contributed $20,000 to Kauai Independent Food Bank. Garden Island.

Lanai

The Lanai Community Plan Advisory Committee has approved plans for a new ultra-luxury hotel and to set aside 200 acres for industrial development, committee member Alberta de Jetley told PBN.

Hawaii flower sales at 14-year low, ballot problems spread to Oahu and state, OHA candidate collapses at Kauai meet and greet, Hannemann endorses Caldwell for Honolulu mayor, Maui opens self-help justice center, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii ginger flowers at farmers market (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Sales of flowers and nursery plants grown in Hawaii dipped 2 percent last year, but the small slip marked a fourth consecutive year of decline to a 14-year low. Hawaii's 970 flower and nursery plant farms reported $69.6 million in sales last year, down from $71.1 million the year before, according to a report released Tuesday by the National Agricultural Statistics Service. Star-Advertiser.

The value of Hawaii’s flower and nursery products sector fell 2 percent to $69.6 million in 2011, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service’s Hawaii Field Office. Pacific Business News.

A pair of ballot blunders are surfacing with less than three weeks to go until the general election. KHON2.

A "significant" number of registered voters in upper Manoa who requested absentee ballots were mailed two of them erroneously, city elections officer Glen Takahashi said Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

The weeks are winding down to Election Day, and some Oahu voters are scratching their heads why they received two absentee ballots in the mail instead of one. KHON2.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie has asked one of his closest political advisors to head a working group created to fend off attacks on the controversial Public Land Development Corporation. Civil Beat.

The National Marine Fisheries Service has agreed to settle a lawsuit filed by environmentalists and says it will issue new rules aimed at preventing Hawaii fishermen from accidentally hooking a rare dolphin species when they’re fishing for tuna and swordfish. Associated Press.

With less than three weeks to go before Election Day, Linda Lingle's U.S. Senate campaign has released a memo from its pollster saying the race against Mazie Hirono "is a very close race." Civil Beat.

Colleen Hanabusa outraised Charles Djou in the three-month period ending Sept. 30 on the strength of contributions from political action committees on the mainland. Civil Beat.

The faculty senate at the University of Hawaii at Manoa voted Wednesday to delay a vote of no confidence against UH President M.R.C. Greenwood. Hawaii News Now.

University of Hawaii President M.R.C. Greenwood says UH independence is at stake because of the fallout from the failed Stevie Wonder concert. Star-Advertiser.

Before the University of Hawaii Board of Regents talks about President M.R.C. Greenwood’s future at UH and a task group presents its first report on what went wrong in the Stevie Wonder concert fiasco, regents will hear today from an expert on college boards about the best practices in governing a university. Star-Advertiser.

Local, local, local. Here it is: Our first special issue devoted to local food, its importance, its place today and its future tomorrow. Honolulu Weekly.

State roundup for October 18. Associated Press.

Oahu

Former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann is putting his support behind Kirk Caldwell in the mayor’s race. Civil Beat.

The Pacific Resource Partnership has brought a new level of sophistication to this year’s Honolulu mayoral race, one that is unprecedented in Hawaii politics. Civil Beat.

An effort by a losing rail bidder to overturn the largest contract in city history has been rejected for a second time by the courts. The Hawaii Intermediate Court of Appeals ruled Wednesday that a proposal submitted by Bombardier Transportation (Holdings) USA Inc. in an effort to win a contract to build rail cars for the Honolulu train system was "unresponsive" to city requirements. Star-Advertiser.

A state appeals court is upholding Honolulu's handling of a half-billion dollar contract for the construction of a commuter rail line. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu’s Board of Water Supply must replace hundreds of miles of pipes connecting Oahu’s 2,100-mile aging water system. Hawaii Reporter.

The state is asking the owner of the vehicle that sheared off a 30-foot section of the Aiea pedestrian overpass on Tuesday to pay for the repairs. Star-Advertiser.

A state judge has permitted a media organization called the Hawaii Guerrilla Video Hui to videotape a petty misdemeanor trial of a woman charged with disorderly conduct at Kapiolani Park on May 1. Star-Advertiser.

At least three surface ships are being retired, a new destroyer named after a Hawaii-based SEAL commando is on its way, a destroyer from San Diego will be traded for one here in a "hull swap," and more of the Navy's latest-generation Virginia-class attack subs will be sent to Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Hawaii County Council members approved several amendments to a bill that would allow agricultural tourism on ag land, including one that would prohibit such tourist activities in Waipio Valley. West Hawaii Today.

A proposal to prohibit geothermal drilling at night ran into a snag Wednesday when the Hawaii County Council opted to hold a public hearing on the issue rather than take a final vote. Tribune-Herald.

A Hawaii Electric Light Co. official today told the County Council that a second independent power producer may be willing to reduce what it charges the utility for electricity. Big Island Now.

Waikoloa is a working community that can’t afford to see water and sewer rates more than double, scores of residents told members of the Public Utilities Commission Wednesday evening in South Kohala. West Hawaii Today.

Rep. Bob Herkes, a committee member who spearheaded the creation of the Interagency Task Force on Vog, said public turnout has been lower than expected for the quarterly gatherings, possibly leaving the group with little to report when the state Legislature reconvenes in January. Tribune-Herald.

New gun shops open in Hilo as demand for firearms surges. Tribune-Herald.

Big Island based telescopes have confirmed the discovery of a far-off planet that receives light from four stars. KPUA.

Maui

Hawaii Supreme Court Chief Justice Mark Recktenwald called the opening of a Self Help Center at Hoapili Hale "a huge step forward for the cause of justice" during a ceremony Tuesday afternoon at the state courthouse building. Maui News.

Kauai

Candidate collapses at OHA meet and greet. Garden Island.

The Kaua‘i County Office of the Prosecuting Attorney announced Wednesday that it has updated its website. Garden Island.

Lanai

The Hawaii Public Utilities Commission has denied a request from PBN reporter Duane Shimogawa for an unredacted copy of the Lanai sales agreement between David Murdock and Larry Ellison. Civil Beat.

Molokai

At the end of Seaside Place in Kaunakakai, tucked behind a string of houses along Molokai’s southern shoreline, is what might appear to be a large, vacant lot. Molokai Dispatch.