Thirty Meter Telescope opponents raise $250k, medical marijuana cultivation to start in March, Oahu property values increase 5.9%, Hawaii loses Tom Moffatt, 'Uncle Herb' Weatherwax, new DLNR facilities planned for Hawaii, Maui counties, electricity hike unpopular, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Thirty Meter Telescope protesters 2015, courtesy Occupy Hilo Media

Opponents of the Thirty Meter Telescope have raised $250,000 to pay for the travel costs for Native American and other protesters from the mainland to come to the islands, Hawaii News Now has learned.

The University of Hawaii called its last witness Tuesday, but the Thirty Meter Telescope’s contested case still has a long way to go. Tribune-Herald.

The state Department of Health is expecting Hawaii’s eight medical marijuana dispensary contractors to begin cultivation in February and start sales a few months later — after an online tracking system is installed. Star-Advertiser.

Here are a few tidbits about Hawaii gleaned from the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2015 American Community Survey, based on a four-year period dating to 2011. Civil Beat.

Four Democratic congressmen have written to officials at the U.S. Coast Guard and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration claiming that Hawaii’s longline fishing fleet is operating illegally by employing — and in some cases possibly abusing — foreign fishermen. Civil Beat.

The state Public Utilities Commission has opened up a possibility for solar customers to get credit on their electrical bills, but that depends on grandfathered customers of a more lucrative program forfeiting their place in line. Star-Advertiser.

Lawmakers announced Tuesday that the U.S. Department of Agriculture has awarded Hawaii $3.1 million in funding to combat invasive species across the state. West Hawaii Today.

After months of deliberation and collecting community input, the Hawaii Board of Education voted unanimously to adopt the update and extension of its strategic plan. Garden Island.

In a career spanning more than 60 years, Tom Moffatt became one of the biggest and most popular figures in Hawaii’s entertainment industry. Moffatt died Monday night at home after several months of declining health. He was 85. Star-Advertiser.

Tom Moffatt, the legendary Honolulu radio DJ and concert promoter who introduced such acts as Elvis Presley, the Rolling Stones and Michael Jackson to the Islands, has died. He was 85. Pacific Business News.

Today the Aloha State learned that local concert promoter and radio personality Tom Moffatt had passed away Monday. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

The total assessed value of taxable property across Oahu is rising 5.9 percent in 2017, with residential owners seeing an average increase of 5.2 percent, city tax officials said Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Sixty-four military families have now filed suit over fears of pesticide contamination near their homes at Marine Corps Base Hawaii in Kaneohe. Civil Beat.

“Uncle Herb” Weatherwax, one of a handful of remaining local Hawaiʻi Pearl Harbor military survivors, passed away Monday, Dec. 12, 2016. Maui Now.

How many trees would you have to plant to offset the amount of carbon you put into the atmosphere? A UH Manoa professor is leading an effort to help answer that question. Hawaii News Now.

The president of a Honolulu-based oil, gas and real estate company will step into the shoes of his nonagenarian father at the end of this year to lead Barnwell Industries Inc. as CEO. Star-Advertiser.

Former office manager accused of embezzling $1.3M, indicted on 311 counts. KHON2.

Hawaii

Hawaii Public Utilities Commissioners heard testimony in opposition to the Hawaii Electric light Company’s proposed rate increase during a public hearing on Tuesday evening. Big Island Video News.

Former Mayor Billy Kenoi was no longer the mayor when the Clerk’s Office received his veto of a bill giving the County Council more say over the hiring and firing of the county’s civil attorneys. West Hawaii Today.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources is planning to consolidate its West Hawaii services in a new administration building and baseyard near Honokohau Small Boat Harbor in Kealakehe. West Hawaii Today.

The new Haihai Fire Station construction project is more than halfway complete and is expected to be finished in early spring. Tribune-Herald.

The state’s Intermediate Court of Appeals Tuesday dismissed a Hawaii man’s claim that he is “not subject to the governance” of the state, instead arguing he is a national of the Hawaiian Kingdom.West Hawaii Today.

A Puna man whose ramshackle three-story home in Kalapana Seaview Estates dubbed the “House of Cards” burned down more than 2 1/2 years ago is back at it again. Tribune-Herald.

Maui
A groundbreaking ceremony was held Monday at the Maui Annex state building on Mahalani Street in Wailuku, as the state prepares to make way for demolition of the 57-year old building, and construction of a new building starting in early 2017. Maui Now.

Kauai

The Department of Water has scheduled an eight-hour water shutdown for Kalaheo residents in the Brydeswood Subdivision and on Kaumualii Highway between Papalina Road and Halewili Road. Garden Island.

End of an era for last Hawaii sugar plantation, Hawaiian Electric seeks land, Ige touts $10M for innovation, Caldwell outspent Djou 4-1 in Honolulu mayoral race, state Supreme Court dings Hilo judge for closing records, uranium plan completed for Pohakuloa, Diamond Head homeless eviction sought, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Sen. Brian Schatz at sugar mill as harvest, Facebook photo by Gilbert Keith-Agaran

The 36,000-acre Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Co. plantation in Puunene on Maui held its last harvest Monday with hundreds of former and current workers, families, public officials and community leaders in attendance, and the head of Hawaii’s last major sugar plantation may have summed up the day best when he quoted a Hawaiian poet by saying, “it is what it is.” Pacific Business News.

It started with two horn beeps delivered by Fermin Domingo from the cab of an 80-ton Tournahauler on Monday morning, and then the final load of sugar cane that likely will ever be produced on a plantation in Hawaii was fed into the mill of Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Co. Star-Advertiser.

Sugar workers, retirees and company officials expressed sadness as well as pride as they witnessed “an end of an era” Monday with the delivery of the last load of sugar cane from the fields to the Puunene Mill. Maui News.

Workers delivered the final truckload of cane to the state's last remaining sugar mill on Monday. Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Company held a commemoration event at its Puunene factory with an estimated 700 employees, retirees and community leaders. Hawaii News Now.

The only remaining sugar mill in Hawaii is ending its final harvest. Associated Press.

Gilbert Keith-Agaran

Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Company commemorates its final sugar harvest today (Monday, Dec. 12, 2016) following months of transition work. Maui Now.

Hawai’i’s last sugarcane harvest ended on Maui today and state leaders are asking, “What Next?”   That was the focus of a panel discussion. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Commercial & Sugar held a ceremony Monday for its final harvest.  HC&S is the last sugar plantation in Hawaii. KITV.

It’s the end of an era for Hawaii’s sugar industry, as the final sugar harvest in our state took place Monday morning in Puunene on Maui. KHON2.

===========================

Gov. David Ige has pledged to propose $10 million of the state budget be used to help build the innovation sector. Ige said he would request the funds be used for the state-run HI Growth Initiative, which was created to attract private investment to innovation in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

State and county employers likely will have to contribute more money into the Hawaii Employees’ Retirement System as early as July 1. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. David Ige has appointed two state employees as the new deputy directors for the state Department of Budget and Finance and the Department of Human Resources Development. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric Co. said Monday it is looking for land to build more renewable-energy projects. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric Co. is looking to expand its renewable energy portfolio with more large-scale projects, the Honolulu-based utility said this week. Pacific Business News.

Hawaiian Electric Companies announced a search for land to house potential renewable energy production. The request for information comes from Hawaiian Electric, Maui Electric Company and the Hawaii Electric Light Co. Tribune-Herald.

Tulsi Gabbard For President? A reporter for The New Yorker suggests 13 women candidates for 2020. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Caldwell Outspent Djou Nearly 4-to-1 In Honolulu Mayor’s Race. The mayor raised $3.6 million, and a super PAC kicked in nearly $1 million more to support his re-election bid. Civil Beat.

The ZipMobile broke down for at least the third time in as many years Monday, snarling the early- morning town-bound traffic on the H-1 freeway. Star-Advertiser.

The state is planning to evict homeless campers from more than 40 tent and tarp encampments on the slopes of the Diamond Head State Monument. Civil Beat.

Beach erosion reveals scattered bones at Mokuleia. Hawaii News Now.

Judge denies early release for firefighter in H-1 crash that killed officer. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The Hawaii Supreme Court on Monday issued an opinion that took issue with the way a state judge sealed documents in a criminal case, with the justices underscoring the need to protect confidential information while ensuring the public’s right to access judicial proceedings and records. Star-Advertiser.

A site-specific Environmental Radiation Monitoring Plan has been finalized for the Pohakuloa Training Area. Big Island Video News.

Nonexplosive but designed to fool passers-by is how police described a suspicious device that caused businesses to close and traffic rerouted Friday in downtown Kailua-Kona. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The Maui Department of Water Supply is working to resolve pumping issues in Wakiu, Hāna. Maui Now.

Hawai‘i’s Board of Land and Natural Resources approved a one-year permit to Alexander and Baldwin that will allow them to continue diverting water from streams in East Maui. Hawaii Public Radio.

The 36,000-acre Hawaiian Commercial and Sugar Co. plantation on Maui, which will close on Dec. 23 and effectively end the era of the sugar industry in Hawaii, will soon begin to see a major expansion of cattle ranching on the former cane fields, a company executive told Pacific Business News.

Maui County single-family homes continued their climb in value in November, while condominium prices fell compared with the same month last year, according to statistics released last week by the Realtors Association of Maui. Maui News.

Kauai

Island School’s proposal to reclassify land took a big step forward as the school submitted its petition to the State Land Use Commission. Garden Island.

Larry Richardson hopes the loaner life jacket station will save lives Saturday at the Nawiliwili Small Boat Harbor launch ramp. Garden Island.

Molokai

With the ferry no longer operating, a U.S. Coast Guard crew helped the Salvation Army deliver 800 toys and clothes to Molokai children on Friday. Maui News.

Ala Wai to be disrupted by repair work, Hawaii union clout dims, Maui mulls charging for county parks, passes 12% raises for officials, Kauai council to repeal failed GMO bill, Kim to investigate unpermitted sea wall, HMSA revamps payment protocol, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Ala Wai jogger © 2016 All Hawaii News

Hawaiian Electric Co. is proposing to spend an estimated $14 million to replace two old high-voltage cables that run across the bottom of the Ala Wai Canal with new lines installed deeper underground. Star-Advertiser.

As Trump takes aim at unions, labor's clout has dipped in Hawaii. Pacific Business News.

A former teacher and the teachers union are teaming up to ensure that Hawaii Board of Education meetings will continue to be videotaped for those who cannot attend. Civil Beat.

Sandwich Isles Communications Inc., the politically connected Hawaii telecommunications company that provides services on Hawaiian home lands, is being warned that its Federal Communications Commission authorization to operate may be revoked. Star-Advertiser.

Fisheries Commission Takes Steps To Keep Observers Safer. The last-minute agreement represented one of the week’s few accomplishments, but more action on tuna is expected next year. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Medical Service Association has decided to phase in a major overhaul of its payment system to doctors. The state’s largest health insurer, with 3,000 doctors in its network, is changing the way it reimburses its primary care physicians to a fixed monthly rate for each patient in a practice, instead of paying them based on the number of patients they see and the number of services they provide. Star-Advertiser.

It’s well known that Hawaii faces a critical housing shortage. As Pacific Business News reports, different challenges exist at all price points. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu
A record number of students are earning undergraduate degrees within four years from the University of Hawaii at Manoa — the result, officials say, of nearly a decade of initiatives aimed at better supporting student success. Star-Advertiser.

Rural commuters in Windward Oahu who rely on TheBus are getting some relief after enduring several years of scaled-back service, but it remains to be seen whether they’ll keep those gains in the long term. Star-Advertiser.

A federal measure known as the 21st Century Cures Act that could boost grant funding by millions of dollars per year for the University of Hawaii Cancer Center has won approval from Congress, and President Barack Obama is expected to quickly sign it into law. Star-Advertiser.

Starting Monday, Thomas Square will close to the public for six months. The park will be undergoing maintenance and improvements. KHON2.

New Kakaako condos debut urban community associations. Star-Advertiser.

Some students at Shafter Elementary School have been using the library and cafeteria as classrooms since last school year while three portable rooms have sat vacant on the campus for about two years, leading an area legislator and parent to question the state Department of Education about the delay. Star-Advertiser.

Some residents displaced five months ago by Tropical Storm Darby are back home in a Honolulu neighborhood. Associated Press.

Despite Oahu’s tight inventory driving median home prices up, the luxury real estate market is still strong, according to Hawaii real estate experts. Pacific Business News.

Commentary: Financial fumbling makes difficult task of paying for rail even more onerous over time. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Marathon is not just a race, but a spectacle. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Marathon is more than a race. It’s an exhibition, festival, visitor attraction and business — and it’s huge. Pacific Business News.

Lance Mizumoto resigned last week from his position as vice chairman and chief operating officer of Central Pacific Financial Corp. and its subsidiary, Central Pacific Bank, the Honolulu-based bank said in a regulatory filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission early Tuesday. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii
The land board is waiting on the Banyan Drive Hawaii Redevelopment Agency before it decides what to do with the Pagoda property. Here is what new mayor Harry Kim says about the agency and the Banyan Drive situation. Big Island Video News.

Mayor Harry Kim says his administration will check on the status of a nonpermitted seawall built at Lalakea pond following complaints from some park users. Tribune-Herald.

A recent Puna Geothermal Ventures community meeting in Pahoa included some of the usual back and forth between industry watchdog group Puna Pono Alliance and PGV officials, but ended with a handshake and a word of thanks. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii County Democrats are proposing new rules for selecting candidates to fill legislative vacancies after some controversy over the process of filling Rep. Clift Tsuji's seat. Associated Press.

The Volcano School of Arts &Sciences is developing plans for a new campus, replacing what it calls inadequate and deteriorating facilities. Tribune-Herald.

Moku Loa, Hawaii Island’s chapter of the Sierra Club, held its annual meeting Saturday evening, with more than 25 people gathering at Wailoa River State Park. Tribune-Herald.

The state Judiciary held the 2016 Self-Help Desk Recognition Awards Friday to celebrate the work of Hawaii Island attorneys who provided free legal information to more than 500 Hawaii Island residents seeking assistance during the past year at the Kona Courthouse in Kealakekua. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Free entry for everyone at Maui County parks could become a thing of the past. Last week, the county Cost of Government Commission heard a suggestion to charge park entry fees for visitors and businesses from Vice Chairwoman Annie Alvarado. Maui News.

The Maui County Salary Commission approved a 12 percent pay increase Friday for Mayor Alan Arakawa, his department directors and their deputies, although a problem with the posted meeting agenda could void the pay hike, at least temporarily. Maui News.

Hawaii's only remaining sugar mill is wrapping up its final harvest, with the last cane haul set for Monday. Hawaii News Now.

The state Board of Land and Natural Resources is allowing Alexander & Baldwin to continue diverting East Maui streams, even though the company’s Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Co. is ending sugar cane production this year. Maui News.

New budget director cites past experience. Araki-Regan has come under fire for her connection to mayor. Maui News.

The County of Maui announced its 2016 Employee Recognition Awards following ceremonies that were held on Maui, Molokaʻi and Lānaʻi. Maui Now.

After settling fines and violations in late July 2015 for $500,000 — the largest amount ever levied by the Maui County Department of Planning — Paia businessman Michael Baskin has missed the original deadline for full payment by more than four months. Maui News.

Kauai

When councilmembers gather for the first full council meeting of the new term this week, they are expected to discuss repealing the GMO bill that was recently ruled invalid in federal court. Garden Island.

KCC group attacks illegal dumping. Garden Island.

Hawaii seniors most fit, money for military, union wins hospital smoking judgment, Akana named OHA chairwoman, new Big Island police chief, E. coli in Maui water, 5k pound fishnet pulled off Kauai shore, big plans for Kakaako park, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Kupuna hula © 2016 All Hawaii News

Hawaii leads the nation for the highest physical well-being for older residents, a new report shows. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's military installations will receive more than $277 million in construction under the defense spending bill passed by the U.S. Senate Thursday. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii ranks among the top 10 states for percentage of households with wired and wireless broadband access at speeds in excess of 25 megabits per second, according to a study by the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation. Pacific Business News.

After winning a judgment from the Hawaii Labor Relations Board, a public employees union says its members shouldn’t have to follow a recently enacted state law that prohibits smoking at 12 medical facilities in the islands. Civil Beat.

The State Building Code Council proposed to update the minimal requirements for building construction and design to the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code. If approved, all state buildings will have to comply with the new code. Star-Advertiser.

Veteran trustee Rowena Akana was elected chairwoman of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs Board of Trustees on Thursday, edging out incumbent Chairman Robert “Bob” Lindsey of Hawaii island during a rancorous meeting that saw three members walk out in protest. Star-Advertiser.

At-Large Trustee Rowena Akana was elected as the new chair of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs Board of Trustees Thursday. Civil Beat.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources is seeking public input regarding the latest overview of forest lands throughout the islands. Tribune-Herald.

The Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission wrapped up its annual meeting Friday as it often has in the past, with many of its international members and nonprofit advocates frustrated by the slow progress made on pressing issues like tuna overfishing and overall accountability on the high seas. Civil Beat.

Commentary: Clearly, something is going down at the BOE, and David and Dawn Ige are in the thick of it, though all we get is ham-handed obfuscation and frustrating denials. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

A major plan to overhaul the park spaces near the waterfronts in the Honolulu neighborhood of Kakaako that includes a sports complex, a beer garden and food concessions, cleared a big hurdle after receiving the approval from the governor. Pacific Business News.

Drug raids target public housing. Star-Advertiser.

Multiple arrest warrants were issued Thursday morning in connection with a drug operation in Honolulu, according to the FBI. KITV.

Two nonprofit organizations hope to provide farm-fresh produce and job training opportunities for the needy through a planned community farm on 14 acres of vacant state land in Waimanalo. Star-Advertiser.

Two Hawaii nonprofits plan to lease 14 acres from the state for a community farming project that includes a learning center in Waimanalo in Windward Oahu, according to public documents. Pacific Business News.

The University of Hawaii Manoa’s Graduate Student Organization is pushing to return Dole Street, a major road through the campus, to its original Hawaiian name. The name Kapaakea has ties to the area’s Native Hawaiian history, while Dole symbolizes American oppression of the Hawaiian people, students said. Civil Beat.

City officials Thursday confirmed that an estimated 201,600 gallons of untreated sewage spilled onto about an acre of vacant land near the Ko Olina Golf Club after a sewage main broke last week. Star-Advertiser.

Lots of golfers were happy when the Ala Wai Golf Course driving range reopened on Monday, Dec. 5.KHON2.

Hawaii

The county Police Commission unanimously selected Deputy Police Chief Paul Ferreira on Thursday to succeed his boss, Chief Harry Kubojiri. Tribune-Herald.

One of former Mayor Billy Kenoi’s last actions Monday was to veto a bill that would have given the County Council more say over the hiring and firing of the county’s civil attorneys. West Hawaii Today.

Tsunami Scare As Mayor Kim Seeks Civil Defense Admin. Big Island Video News.

A Hawaii Island Energy Cooperative representative said Thursday he is under a “cone of silence” regarding efforts to acquire Hawaii Electric Light Co. Tribune-Herald.

At a memorial service Thursday, one theme emerged over and over about the departed Dr. Cliff Kopp, who during his last decade of life was widely regarded as one of Hawaii Island’s most prolific community advocates. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The Maui Department of Water Supply detected E. coli bacteria in the ʻUalapuʻe Shaft on Molokaʻi. Maui Now.

Native Hawaiian beneficiaries on Maui are supporting a rule change that would prevent the sale of empty and undeveloped homestead lots, saying that selling lots allows wealthier families to jump past those who’ve sat on the waiting list for years. Maui News.

Kauai

The community is invited to a celebration of Tim Bynum’s life at 4:30 p.m. Dec. 16 at Lydgate Park’s main pavilion. Garden Island.

5,000 pound fishing net pulled from waters off Kapaa. Garden Island.

Federal Transit Administration extends Honolulu rail finance deadline, Big Island Democrats mull transparency rule changes, workers comp revamp sought, Kauai electric rates fall, Maui leaders join administration, Abe not the first to visit Pearl Harbor,more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Red ohia blooms front Maua Kea this week, Facebook photo

The snowfall is returning to the summits of Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea on the Big Island.Hawaii News Now.

Shipping ʻōhiʻa plants and plant parts from Hawaii Island is now illegal on a permanent basis, thanks to new administrative rules drawn up to prevent Rapid ‘Ōhi’a Death from spreading across the state. Big Island Video News.

Shipping ohia from the Big Island is now forever banned. Civil Beat.

Delays, Denials Plague Hawaii’s Program To Help Injured Workers. The state is trying to streamline its workers’ compensation system, but critics say wholesale changes are needed. Civil Beat.

Tuna Commission’s ‘Glacial’ Pace Suits Some In Industry Just Fine. Diverse interests always seem to stymie a global organization charged with saving bluefin and bigeye tuna from overfishing. Civil Beat.

A report has been delivered to the state’s Department of Land and Natural Resources from a group of experts and organizations with interest in establishing non-commercial fishing licenses in Hawaii. Garden Island.

Not the first: Abe predecessor visited Pearl Harbor in 1951. Associated Press.

The faithful turned out in droves Wednesday to remember Pearl Harbor and the men who valiantly tried to defend it on Dec. 7, 1941, three-quarters of a century ago. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii remembers 75th anniversary of Pearl Harbor attack: Slideshow Pacific Business News.

Oahu

The rail system’s federal partners have again extended the deadline for the city’s crucial rail “recovery” plan, giving local leaders four more months to deal with daunting budget problems but not as much time as they’d hoped. Star-Advertiser.

The Federal Transit Administration has given Honolulu’s troubled rail project until the end of April to submit a plan for how it plans to bridge a shortfall likely to approach $2 billion. Civil Beat.

The Federal Transit Administration has extended the deadline for the Honolulu rail project’s recovery plan, but did not give the agency overseeing construction of the multibillion-dollar project as much time as it requested. Pacific Business News.

In a letter sent to Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell, the Federal Transit Administration said it’s giving the city a four-month extension to secure more funding for the cash-strapped Honolulu rail project. Hawaii News Now.

The seven-member Honolulu Police Commission voted unanimously Wednesday to make hotel executive Max Sword the chairman of the closely watched panel effective Jan. 1. Star-Advertiser.

A state board is taking more time before deciding whether to approve another condominium high-rise at Ward Village after receiving lots of public testimony for and against the project. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

New rules are being proposed by Hawaii County Democratic Party officials to select candidates to fill legislative vacancies, after a text message between district officers showed the outcome prior to Saturday’s vote of candidates for the House seat vacated by the death of Rep. Clift Tsuji. West Hawaii Today.

Mayor Harry Kim has one more major hire to make as he fills out his administration. Ed Teixeira, who started as interim Civil Defense administrator last May, retired Monday, leaving the administrative position vacant for the time being. Tribune-Herald.

It took about a year of arguing with the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources, but we finally got our hands on Ethan Ferguson’s job application. Ferguson is the DLNR officer accused of sexually assaulting a teenager on the Big Island.  Civil Beat.

Food safety rule amendments that will require every restaurant to have at least one certified food handler per shift, among other changes, will be the subject of a public hearing from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. today at the West Hawaii Civic Center. West Hawaii Today.

The leasehold Pagoda Hilo Bay Hotel on the Big Island of Hawaii, known for years as Uncle Billy's Hilo Bay Hotel, could be demolished and be redeveloped into a Hilton Garden Inn under a plan by the owner of the nearby DoubleTree by Hilton Grand Naniloa Hotel, Pacific Business News has learned.

Maui

Familiar faces in Maui County government, including two outgoing council members, are joining Mayor Alan Arakawa’s administration as vacancies open up in some key positions. Maui News.

A dispute over water rights that dominated the last legislative session is expected to continue Friday at a Board of Land and Natural Resources hearing. Civil Beat.

Kauai

The Public Works/Parks and Recreation Committee unanimously approved a bill Wednesday that would allow the sale of alcohol at Wailua Golf Course. Garden Island.

The Kauai Island Utility Cooperative's rates for its members have fallen by 18 percent since 2008, the Lihue-based cooperative said Tuesday. Pacific Business News.

Hanalei Watershed Hui is accepting applications from Hanalei residential property owners interested in a funding subsidy to replace aging cesspools with updated waste water systems. Garden Island.

The last of the 20 Hawaiian Petrels brought into the 7.8-acre Nihoku colony this fall fledged, flying safely out to sea Wednesday on Kauai. Garden Island.

The first real estate component of the 450-acre Hokuala Resort master-planned oceanfront community on the site of the former Kauai Lagoons project in Lihue is scheduled to be completed in the summer of 2017. Pacific Business News.

Pearl Harbor's 75th commemorated today, new U.S.-Japan relationship forming, Capitol Hill forum blasts Hawaii leadership for abusive fisherman labor conditions, Board of Education seeks transparent selection of new superintendent, book closes on Kenoi ethics, Maui sugar industry plans last haul, 200k gallon sewage spill at Ko Olina, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

USS John C. Stennis arrives at Pearl Harbor, courtesy U.S. Navy

Pearl Harbor ceremony: What you need to know. Star-Advertiser.

An American president in Hiroshima. A Japanese prime minister at Pearl Harbor. One longtime taboo has already fallen this year, and the other soon will. Associated Press.

More than 4,000 people, including hundreds of Pearl Harbor survivors, World War II veterans and their families, will gather Wednesday to mark the 75th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor in a solemn ceremony aimed at honoring the legacy of those who served and remembering those who paid the ultimate sacrifice. Hawaii News Now.

On Wednesday, Dec. 7, the U.S. Navy and National Park Service will co-host a joint memorial ceremony commemorating the 75th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. KHON2.

The last of the survivors of the Pearl Harbor attack are passing from life, but their voices and stories aren’t disappearing. Civil Beat.

In observance of the 75th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor, the Tribune-Herald is republishing this article from 2001 that documented how the newspaper covered — or failed to cover, due to government censorship — the attack and its aftermath on the Big Island. Tribune-Herald.

For Pearl Harbor survivors, the attack of December 7th 1941 was a shared experience, but each story is an individual one. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort hosted more than 1,200 at a gala event on the eve of the 75th anniversary of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, the event that plunged the United States into World War II. Pacific Business News.

Survivors of the attack on Pearl Harbor and other World War II veterans were wined and dined and honored at a special gala tribute on the eve of the 75th anniversary of the historic battle. Star-Advertiser.


===============================

Former Hawaii Gov. Linda Lingle will be returning to the islands. The Hawaii GOP tweeted Lingle will be the guest speaker at a pre-inaugural presidential gala, celebrating the election of Donald Trump. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii’s government leaders came in for withering criticism Tuesday at a Capitol Hill forum on abusive labor conditions for foreign fishermen employed as contract workers. Civil Beat.

Congress should act immediately to improve slavelike conditions for hundreds of foreign fishermen working in Hawaii’s commercial fleet, speakers at a congressional forum said Tuesday. Associated Press.

Uncertainty continues to loom over what a Donald Trump presidency will mean for the recently expanded Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands and federal fishing policies in general. Civil Beat.

The state Board of Education on Tuesday approved an updated strategic plan that sets out expectations for public schools to do a better job of empowering students to set and achieve goals, prioritizing professional development and fostering innovation. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Board of Education considered a plan Tuesday for how it might proceed to replace state Superintendent Kathryn Matayoshi. Civil Beat.

Oahu

More than 200,000 gallons of sewage spilled in Ko Olina. KHON2.

Golfers and a golf course are getting back into the swing of things. The Ala Wai golf course driving range is back open. KITV.

Sales of single-family homes and condominiums on Oahu soared by double digits in November, as the median price of a condo jumped by nearly 14 percent, according to statistics released Tuesday by the Honolulu Board of Realtors. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

Mayor Harry Kim’s dream of making Mauna Kea a park didn’t come as a surprise to one telescope director, who said he shares Kim’s underlying philosophy. Tribune-Herald.

Newly sworn-in Hawaii County Mayor Harry Kim put the focus on Mauna Kea during his inauguration speech, mentioning a "Hawaii Park" for the island's cosmopolitan people. Big Island Video News.

One day after the term-limited Mayor Billy Kenoi left office, the county Board of Ethics on Tuesday closed the book on his admitted misuse of his county-issued purchasing card by unanimously approving an advisory opinion acknowledging his admission and his promise that it won’t happen again. West Hawaii Today.

A candidate who hoped to be appointed to replace the late state Rep. Clift Tsuji says the vetting process for applicants for the job was unfair and is asking that Hawaii Democratic Party Chairman Tim Vandeveer investigate the process. Star-Advertiser.

Maui
Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Co. will wind down its operations over the next two weeks — with its last cane burn scheduled for Saturday and last cane haul to the Puunene Mill on Monday — as the plantation prepares to close its doors at the end of the year. Maui News.

Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar company is just two weeks away from the end of its final harvest. The company plans to commemorate the closure on Monday, Dec. 12, 2016 with a tournahauler bringing in the last load of sugarcane to the Puʻunēnē Mill. Maui Now.

Proposed rate increases for the Pukalani wastewater system are expected to become public and be sent to the Hawaii Public Utility Commission this week, according to the company that manages the system. Maui News.

Kauai

On the morning of Sunday Dec. 7, 1941, Ikito “Ike” Muraoka and his brother, Mitsugi, were hunting pheasants in Koloa, on Kauai’s south shore. Suddenly, they saw several strange looking warplanes flying overhead. Garden Island.

Hawaii Supreme Court knocks down Mauna Kea lawsuit, Visitors Bureau loses $1M check, Abe won't apologize for Pearl Harbor, predetermined outcome in Tsuji replacement vote, Kim returns as Big Island mayor, Cochran to run for Maui mayor, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Snow-capped Mauna Kea seen from Hilo © 2016 All Hawaii News

Hawaii’s Supreme Court has dismissed an appeal by opponents of a giant telescope project on Mauna Kea. Associated Press.

Tulsi Gabbard Faced Tough Questions In Dakota About Hawaiian Issues. The congresswoman was challenged when she said the Thirty Meter Telescope issue was resolved. She later said she personally opposes the project. Civil Beat.

Mayor Harry Kim signaled his intent to shape the future of Mauna Kea during his first inauguration in 12 years. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau was the victim of fraud while trying to pay for an expensive mainland marketing campaign. Sources say the Honolulu Police Department is investigating after a check, written for more than $1 million, was stolen late last month. Hawaii News Now.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe won't apologize for Japan's attack when he visits the U.S. naval base at Pearl Harbor later this month, the government spokesman said Tuesday. Associated Press.

President Barack Obama and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will make history on Dec. 27 when they meet at Pearl Harbor 75 years after the Japanese attack that launched America into war. Star-Advertiser.

Nearly 30 Pearl Harbor survivors took an emotional boat cruise into history Monday, returning to the scene where they witnessed death and carnage 75 years ago. Star-Advertiser.

Sixty-six World War II veterans of Japanese ancestry were honored Monday for “fighting two wars” — at home and overseas. Star-Advertiser.

The December 7th attack on Pearl Harbor 75 years ago resulted in 54 civilian casualties on O’ahu mostly caused by friendly fire. Hawaii Public Radio.

A revised federal law will transfer some power to individual states to determine how their schools should be reformed – and Hawaii principals want a piece of the action. Civil Beat.

There will be a new security point man at the Hawaii state House come January. Rod Tanonaka will assume the job of sergeant-at-arms Jan. 3, replacing Kevin Kuroda who held the position since 2003. Civil Beat.

Embattled Hawaii telecommunications company Sandwich Isles Communications now faces more than $49 million in fines that are being proposed by the Federal Communications Commission for allegedly misusing federal funds, according to the agency. Star-Advertiser.

Pacific Tuna Commission Gets To Work On Fishing Policies. Civil Beat.

More than 1,000 electric customers across the state have signed up for Hawaiian Electric Companies’ new Time-of-Use rates program. Maui Now.

Oahu

The Honolulu City Council may be getting a new boss. Councilman Ron Menor has proposed a reorganization plan that’s expected to have the support of at least four of the nine Council members. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell says the financial plan for rail has changed dramatically. KHON2.

Interest in Hawaiian Electric Co.’s time-of-use pilot program is growing. Star-Advertiser.

The 15th annual Waikiki Spam Jam Festival to take place next year is expected to bring in 25,000 guests and local residents to Kalakaua Avenue. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

Hawaii’s New Mayor Passes Gavel To New Council Chair. Big Island Video News.

For the third time in his career as a public servant, Harry Kim has pledged to again serve the people of Hawaii County as their mayor. Hawaii News Now.

The slate of finalists sent to the governor to pick a replacement for the late state Rep. Clift Tsuji was already decided before the public interviews and votes, according to a screen-shot of a text message obtained by the newspaper prior to Saturday’s voting. West Hawaii Today.

A feasibility study on a non-commercial marine fishing registry, permit or license system that was released Friday has laid the most stable groundwork to date for moving forward with an RPL system in Hawaii. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Councilmember Elle Cochran (West Maui) revealed in public statements made at an event on Oahu that she intends on running for Mayor of Maui County in 2018. Maui Watch.

Marine Corps veteran Alan DeCoite was searching for a downed World War II-era plane when he stumbled upon a different set of military artifacts, the likes of which he’d seen nowhere else. Maui News.

Kauai

For Nadine Nakamura, finding solutions to the Kapaa crawl and affordable housing, preserving cultural lands and supporting education are priorities for the House of Representatives this term. Garden Island.

Those who knew Charles Kawakami say he was a consummate businessman who had a deep connection to the Garden Isle.Garden Island.

Obama and Abe to visit Pearl Harbor, Native Hawaiian constitution gains supporters, Menor to lead Honolulu City Council, Big Island inauguration today for mayor, council, three candidates chosen to replace Tsuji, Maui has highest crime rate, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Obama and Abe May 2016 Facebook photo

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will visit Pearl Harbor with U.S. President Barack Obama at the end of this month, becoming the first leader of his country to go to the site of the Japanese attack that propelled the United States into World War II. Associated Press.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will visit Pearl Harbor later this month, becoming the first Japanese head of state to ever visit the site of the surprise attack. President Obama will accompany Abe on the visit, which is scheduled for Dec. 27. Hawaii Public Radio.

World War II veterans and Navy brass gathered Sunday to celebrate the restoration of a weather forecasting center on Ford Island that was used as a flight control tower during the Dec. 7, 1941, attack. Star-Advertiser.

The December 7th attack on Pearl Harbor 75 years ago resulted in 54 civilian casualties on O’ahu mostly caused by friendly fire. Hawaii Public Radio.

A campaign to bring about a ratification vote for the draft Native Hawaiian constitution has received a boost with a pledge of support from an association of more than 100 Native Hawaiian organizations. Star-Advertiser.

The Senate leadership has reshuffled some of the key committee assignments as it readies for the start of the 2017 legislative session in January. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu City Council Chairman Ernie Martin is expected to lose his leadership gavel to Councilman Ron Menor in the new year under a reorganization plan expected to garner the support of a majority of the nine-member panel. Star-Advertiser.

A new bill aimed at treating Uber and Lyft drivers more like traditional cabbies was approved 9-0 by the Hono­lulu City Council on Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

The costs of Honolulu’s rail project could go as high as $9.5 billion under one scenario in an updated financial plan for the project released by the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation Friday. Civil Beat.

One of Hawaii’s eight medical marijuana dispensary licensees announced this week that it raised $10.9 million in equity financing and has completed construction of its offices and design of its Honolulu dispensary on Young Street. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Three candidates — Moana Kelii, Stacy Higa and Christopher Todd — were chosen by party members during a Saturday morning voting session as candidates for the House seat vacated by the death of Rep. Clift Tsuji. Tribune-Herald.

Moana Hokoana Keli`i, Stacy Higa and Chris Todd have been chosen from a list of seven Democrats. Governor David Ige will now choose one of them to fill the late Rep. Clift Tsuji's seat. Big Island Video News.

Fellow lawmakers, friends and family gathered to honor the life of the late state Rep. Clift Tsuji on Friday, remembering his booming voice, fairness as a committee chairman tackling divisive topics and deep love for his family and district. Associated Press.

Not everything old is new again, but the inauguration set Monday for a mayor who’s returning to office after eight years, a majority of returning County Council members and a re-elected county prosecutor means there will be a lot of familiar faces around county government. West Hawaii Today.

The developer of a $225 million biomass plant on the Big Island of Hawaii that is about 50 percent complete filed a civil complaint this week against Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc., NextEra Energy Inc. and Hamakua Energy Partners LP for alleged anticompetitive and illegal conduct related to the termination of the developer’s power purchase agreement. Pacific Business News.

The University of Hawaii at Hilo is mulling ways to boost a low 49 percent occupancy in its newest residence hall, a problem that has forced the school to dip into reserve funds in order to pay back debt from the building’s construction. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County reported the highest statewide rates for total, violent, and property Index Crimes, as well as rape, aggravated assault, and larceny-theft, according to a the State of Hawaiʻi’s Annual Uniform Crime Report for 2015. Maui Now.

A little-known lavender farm more than 4,000 feet up the slopes of Haleakala is quickly becoming the most productive olive farm on the island and possibly the only commercial tea farm early next year. Maui News.

Kauai

The Kauai Resource Center will be closed temporarily starting Dec. 14 as the county transitions to a new vendor and the permitting, contracting and mobilization processes for the new contract are completed. Garden Island.

The owner of The St. Regis Princeville Resort and the Makai Golf Club on Kauai’s North Shore is selling its Starwood Hotels and Resorts-managed property, the master developer of the Princeville at Hanalei confirmed to Pacific Business News.

Services today for late state Rep. Tsuji, attorney general whittles rape test kit backlog, Hanabusa to lead freshman class, Obama nixes Pearl Harbor visit, direct Japan flights coming to Kona, Maui homeless rousted, Kauai inaugurates council members, Honolulu streets condemned, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Rep. Clift Tsuji © 2016 All Hawaii News

Hawaii lawmakers and residents are gathering to remember the late Big Island lawmaker Rep. Clift Tsuji, who died last month. Associated Press.

A memorial service for the late state Rep. Clift Tsuji  will be held on Friday, Dec. 2 in the House chamber at the state Capitol. Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., followed by a short program at 10:30 a.m. Hawaii News Now.

As a mark of respect for the late Hawaii State Representative Clifton Tsuji, Gov. David Ige has ordered that the flags of the United States and State of Hawaii shall be flown at half-staff at all state offices and agencies, as well as the Hawai'i National Guard, from sunrise to sunset on Friday, Dec. 2, and from sunrise to sunset on Sunday, Dec. 4. KITV.

The attorney general’s office says a working group has come up with a timeline to whittle down a backlog of untested rape kits. The plan is to test as many as 50 kits each month starting next year. KHON2.

Hawaii will receive $5.74 million to fund preschool in the state’s public charter schools, including Hawaiian language immersion programs. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii public schools will aim to graduate more students, enroll more graduates in college, retain more teachers, improve test scores and educate more special-education students in regular classes by 2020 under a revised strategic plan that officials say is designed to better support student success. Star-Advertiser.

President Barack Obama is no longer expected for the 75th Pearl Harbor Commemoration, an 11-day series of events to mark Dec. 7, 1941. Star-Advertiser.

Freshmen Democratic House members Tuesday unanimously elected U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa of Hawaii as their class representative, a new position that is part of a change in the House Democratic leadership structure. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

The city has a green light to proceed with condemning eight streets in Kakaako that are a tangled mess of competing ownership claims and parking rights. Star-Advertiser.

The city can now initiate action to claim eight private Kakaako streets that have generated complaints about traffic being blocked by parking spots a company has rented out. Civil Beat.

Activists Fear Thomas Square Could Become A ‘Revenue Cow’. The downtown Honolulu park has long been the site for political and cultural events, as well as free services for the needy. Civil Beat.

To honor the late U.S. Rep. Mark Takai, the Veterans Memorial Aquatic Center at the Patsy T. Mink Central Oahu Regional Park in Waipio will soon bear the congressman’s name. Star-Advertiser.

A police officer escorted former congressional candidate Angela Kaaihue out of a Honolulu City Council meeting Thursday after she loudly protested the renaming of an aquatic center in honor of the late Congressman Mark Takai. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu City Council on Thursday approved four resolutions authorizing the payment of up to $150,000 to retain the services of three outside law firms to represent Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha in four lawsuits. Civil Beat.

Manoa Botanicals LLC, one of eight Hawaii firms licensed to open medical marijuana dispensaries, has raised $5 million in its second round of equity financing, bringing the total amount raised for the Oahu company to $10.9 million. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

Gov. David Ige Thursday announced from Honolulu the reopening of the federal inspection service at the Kona International Airport at Keahole, paving the way as the state’s second international gateway. West Hawaii Today.

Customs and immigration checks are being set up at Kona International Airport in time for Hawaiian Airlines to begin operating nonstop flights there from Japan. Associated Press.

Kona International Airport will once again service flights from Japan on Dec. 20 with the re-establishment of a U.S. Customs station, a move that Gov. David Ige says will improve the overall health of the state of Hawaii by restoring direct flights from Tokyo to a Neighbor Island. Pacific Business News.

The State announced the re-establishment of the Kona International Airport yesterday with the arrival of the first foreign flight from Japan scheduled in less than 3 weeks. Hawaii Public Radio.

It was a brisk, windy, rainy day at the Mauna Kea Recreation Area on Thursday, but it was nice and cozy inside after several dozen people crowded into the newly renovated dining hall to celebrate the grand opening of the county’s overhaul of the former state park. West Hawaii Today.

Officials unveiled the latest round of improvements to the Hawaii County-managed Mauna Kea Recreation Area Thursday. Big Island Video News.

A planning process that will guide development from Wainaku to Waipio Valley is nearing its final stretch after seven years of meetings and talk-story sessions. Tribune-Herald.

An attorney for an off-duty police officer acquitted of assaulting his 72-year-old upstairs neighbor is considering taking legal action against the county. West Hawaii Today.

Jaylin Kema pleaded guilty to manslaughter Thursday morning in the death of her 6-year-old son, Peter Kema Jr. The case is the most notorious missing child-turned-murder investigation in the state’s history, and Peter Boy became the statewide poster child for abused and missing children. Tribune-Herald.

Jaylin Kema pleaded guilty to manslaughter today in connection with the 1997 death of her 6-year-old son, “Peter Boy” Kema. Big Island Video News.

The National Weather Service in Honolulu has issued a winter storm warning for the summits of Hawaii’s Big Island as wind and snow engulf the high peaks. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

State Department of Transportation crews cleared out a homeless encampment in the Kahului Harbor breakwater area Wednesday. Maui News.

Kauai

Five incumbents, one returning councilmember and one new face to the Kauai County Council were inaugurated Thursday. Garden Island.

Hawaii Dairy Farms and Friends of Maha’ulepu met Thursday on Oahu to discuss a settlement to a pending Clean Water Act violation lawsuit. Garden Island.

The Kauai Visitors Bureau’s annual meeting and luncheon is scheduled 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday at Kauai Marriott Resort at Kalapaki Bay. Garden Island.

Ohia disease to be managed, thousands of ballots not counted, tourism up, Rep. Tulsi Gabbard explains Trump meeting, telecom company sues PUC, feds pay $2M in Honolulu police officer death, new ocean safety patrol for Maui, unexploded ordnance collected, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Ohia blossom © 2016 All Hawaii News

After more than a year of emergency response efforts, collaborators working to stop the spread of rapid ohia death are shifting to a long-term research and management strategy. Tribune-Herald.

More than a thousand absentee ballots mailed in for the general election were not counted. Despite lingering questions about the process, elections officials will once again push for an all mail-in election. KHON2.

Hawaii’s visitor industry is hurtling toward its fifth banner year of arrivals and spending gains, with the momentum expected to continue into 2017. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority says the number of travelers to the islands increased 4.3 percent in October compared to the same month last year, setting a record for the month. Associated Press.

Sandwich Isles Communications, which provides phone and internet service to about 3,600 residents of Hawaiian Home Lands, is suing state regulators in the hopes of restoring the flow of about $1.36 million in monthly federal subsidies that were suspended last year while federal regulators scrutinized the company’s finances. Star-Advertiser.

A new study says a Hawaii criminal justice program praised nationally for improving parole and probation is not a “silver bullet” for reducing recidivism and lowering costs for supervising high-risk probationers. Civil Beat.

A Honolulu attorney has sued the Hawaii Department of Taxation in a case that could establish how transparent state agencies must be about their communication with the Legislature. Civil Beat.

Pilot in helicopter crash seemed lost, report says. Associated Press.

As Americans remember the attack on Pearl Harbor 75 years ago, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is offering an up-close look at two Japanese mini submarines involved in the attack. Hawaii News Now.

The Enterprise Rent-A-Car Foundation has donated $50,000 to Pacific Historic Parks in honor of the 75th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. Star-Advertiser.

A bill to award Filipino World War II veterans with the nation’s highest civilian honor is one step closer to becoming a reality. Hawaii Public Radio.

Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard wrote an opinion-editorial article that was published Wednesday in The Nation about why she met with President-elect Donald Trump. KITV4.

Hawaii residents got some reprieve this hurricane season following a record-breaking 2015 season that saw 15 storms impact the Central Pacific. West Hawaii Today.

Oahu

The federal government has agreed to pay $2 million to settle a lawsuit over the death of Honolulu Police Officer Garret Davis. Star-Advertiser.

The increasing interest in Hawaii’s third-string solar program is caught on a snag as the city, the utility and solar contractors learn more about battery technology. Star-Advertiser.

A Chuukese couple is suing Kapiolani Medical Center for Women and Children, where their 9-month-old son died after a series of visits to the hospital’s emergency room in 2015. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Police Department officials said Wednesday hundreds of fireworks violations are being reported on Oahu before fireworks are permitted between 9 p.m. Dec. 31 and 1 a.m. Jan. 1. Star-Advertiser.

A Honolulu company that’s backed by Chinese investors has purchased another property that would be part of its redevelopment project that includes a 400-unit mixed-use high-rise tower on a block across the street from the Walmart and Walgreens flagship stores in Honolulu, Pacific Business News has learned.

Starting next spring, Honolulu shoppers will start to see more local beef in their market. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

Forum tackles unexploded ordnance in Waikoloa. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Electric Light Co. is still in talks with Hu Honua Bioenergy LLC about completing construction of a biomass power plant in Pepeekeo, according to the utility’s president. Tribune-Herald.

A judge on Wednesday dismissed four allegations against the Hawaii Island Humane Society filed as part of the ongoing legal dispute with Big Island Dog Rescue. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Island’s state senators will lead three committees in the 2017 legislative session. Tribune-Herald.

The Big Island is celebrating its latest efforts to reduce homelessness with the launch of a $2.5 million housing project in Kailua-Kona. Associated Press.

Maui

Workers and volunteers were in full force Tuesday afternoon preparing for Thursday’s grand opening of the long-awaited Hospice Maui Hale, which will provide comfort and spiritual support for patients in their last days. Maui News.

Hearing on food establishment rules set Tuesday at UH-MC. Amendments to sanitation regulations among updates offered. Maui News.

Kauai

Ocean Safety Bureau Roving Patrol Program begins today. ‘We’re here to save lives’ Garden Island.

A pod of false killer whales spent a record 11 consecutive days circumnavigating Kauai and Ni’ihau in November. Garden Island.

Arthur Brun is looking forward to beginning his term on the Kauai County Council. Garden Island.

Lanai

Expeditions, known for its ferry service between Maui and Lānaʻi, launched service aboard its newest vessel today, the Expedition Six. Maui Now.