Tuesday, July 31, 2018

New poll shows Ige leading governor's race, Green surges ahead for lieutenant governor; Yoshimura named to Senate seat; warden called to court in mistaken release of murder suspect, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy photos
David Ige, Colleen Hanabusa
Civil Beat Poll: Ige Ahead Of Hanabusa In Hawaii Governor’s Race. Gov. David Ige, after trailing Congresswoman Colleen Hanabusa in a May poll, now leads by 9 percent among likely primary voters. Civil Beat.

Caldwell criticizes Hanabusa’s HART role. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell is wading into the Democratic primary for governor by publicly questioning U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa’s role as chairwoman of the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation, saying she failed to control the exploding cost of rail while she led HART. Star-Advertiser.

Civil Beat Poll: Josh Green Is Far Out Front In The LG Race. The Big Island senator garners lots of support from fans of former presidential candidate Bernie Sanders. Civil Beat.

Early walk-in voting started today at sites across the state. Hawaii Public Radio.

Preparations are underway at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam for the Wednesday repatriation to U.S. soil of presumed American remains from the Korean War turned over by North Korea. Star-Advertiser.

The State's August 1 test has been cancelled in observance of the ceremony on that day to repatriate the remains of U.S. Service personnel from North Korea. KHON2.

Teachers Question Modern Hawaiian History Curriculum. Hawaii Public Radio.

Voters could play major role in future of Hawaii's school system. KHON2.

A Chicago-based company that trademarked the name “Aloha Poke” has ignited a social media firestorm and calls for a boycott after sending cease-and-desist letters to local and mainland businesses with similar names. Star-Advertiser.

No aloha? Chicago eatery goes after poke shops for trademark infringement. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

A Surprise Challenge On The North Shore And Other Intriguing Senate Races. Open seats provide opportunities, while a longtime legislator is challenging to get his state Senate post back. Civil Beat.

Gov. David Ige appointed Jon Yoshimura to the seat previously held by former Sen. Will Espero on Monday. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu City Councilwoman Carol Fukunaga is seeking a second term to represent Makiki to Aiea, but first she'll have to defend her seat against three ambitious challengers who say more needs to be done to address issues like homelessness and affordable. Hawaii News Now.

New proposal aims to reverse Oahu's new "bag fee" that charges 15 cents per bag. Though the bag fee has only been in effect since July 1st, Honolulu City Councilman Trevor Ozawa thinks it's time for a change. KHON2.

A $136 million affordable rental housing project is underway in Kapolei after a delay of almost three years. Star-Advertiser.

Construction kicked off Monday on a new, 320-unit affordable housing complex in Kapolei. Hawaii News Now.

Affordable family rental community in east Kapolei breaks ground. KHON2.

More than a year after the city conducted a homeless sweep along the Moanalua Stream, many of them have returned — much to residents' dismay. Hawaii News Now.

Photographer challenges Hawaii Taser ban on 2nd Amendment grounds. Hawaii News Now.

After its first year of operation, Honolulu’s Biki bikeshare program exceeded its ridership goals and is hoping to expand into Iwililei, the University of Hawaii at Manoa and as far east as Kapiolani Community College by the end of the year. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

The state House District 1 Democratic primary race pits a 10-year legislator against a community activist who’s running for office for the first time. Tribune-Herald.

A 3rd Circuit Court judge has ordered the Hawaii Community Correctional Center warden to court to explain how a pre-trial murder suspect was erroneously released last week. West Hawaii Today.

Ongoing Kilauea eruption shatters previous record for longest in lower east rift zone. Hawaii News Now.

Businesses unite to try to attract visitors in the midst of Kilauea disruption. Experience Volcano Hawaii, an organization intended to boost tourism to Volcano, launched Monday during a small event at local art gallery, cafe and cottage Volcano Garden Arts. Tribune-Herald.

Lava-related brush fire claims four homes. Four houses were destroyed Saturday by a brush fire along Kilauea volcano’s lower East Rift Zone. Tribune-Herald.

'There really is a Pele': Big Island eruptions spur cultural revival. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii County on Friday awarded a bid for the Lono Kona sewer project to Honolulu-based contractor Nan Inc., which is now tasked with transitioning the neighborhood known locally as “Hamburger Hill” away from large-capacity cesspools. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Construction begins on a new high school in Kihei. KITV.

Maui County hotel numbers top most state categories for 2018’s first half. Occupancies lag, but room revenues increase in half-year. Maui News.

Ranch planting koa trees to ‘shade out’ invasive gorse. Its other secret weapon — a herd of hungry cattle — can eat the thorny shrub only when it’s young. Maui News.

A Maui ranch has planted thousands of acacia koa trees to help stave off the spread of an invasive plant species. Associated Press.

Kauai

The Kauai Chamber of Commerce will be presenting the Governor’s Forum at the Aqua Kauai Beach Resort near Hanamaulu from 6 to 7:30 p.m. to night to allow voters an opportunity to get to know the candidates better before casting their votes. Garden Island.

The Hanalei post office reopened its doors following repairs to damage caused by flooding from the record-breaking rainfall in April. Garden Island.

Uncertainty surrounded the future of the St. Regis Princeville Resort after weekend media reports said it had been purchased by a Miami-based hotel investment company, but the company denied on Monday that it had done so. Garden Island.

Monday, July 30, 2018

Gubernatorial race heats up as early voting starts today, RIMPAC goes public with attack demo, Big Island hotels feel the hit from volcano crisis, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2018 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Voting in Hawaii ©2018 All Hawaii News
Starting July 30 through August 9, registered voters can go to any early walk in voting location within their county to cast their ballot for the August 11 primary election. KHON2.

You wouldn’t know it from the deluge of political advertising in the final weeks of the Democratic primary, but Gov. David Ige and U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa have strikingly similar views on many of Hawaii’s hot-button issues. Star-Advertiser.

Money in politics: Gov. David Ige and his primary Democratic challenger, U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa, are evenly dividing the state’s ZIP codes and major islands when it comes to who’s sending them checks. West Hawaii Today.

Hanabusa, Ige continue to capture support prior to primary election. Hawaii News Now.

Commentary: Did David Ige Tell Colleen Hanabusa To ‘Sit Down And Shut Up’? Hanabusa supporters are blasting the governor for challenging Hanabusa’s repeated criticism of him, saying it’s really a dis on women. Civil Beat.

Endorsement: Colleen Hanabusa is the best choice to lead Hawaii for the next four years. Star-Advertiser.

Green plays valid role in homeless center. As pressure mounts in the race to be Hawaii’s next lieutenant governor, Democratic primary contenders have set their sights on the front-runner’s claims that he started a homeless center and raised millions for a new model of health care for the homeless. Star-Advertiser.

State pilot program saves 1M sheets of paper in just 6 months. From January to June of this year, nine state departments participated in the program launched by the Office of Enterprise Technology Services and reduced 20 percent of paper usage by transitioning from printed documents to electronic reports. Hawaii News Now.

The state says a six-month paper reduction program piloted by the Office of Enterprise Technology Services (ETS) has reduced paper use by 20 percent, which translates to a savings of one million sheets of printed paper. KITV.

RIMPAC 2018 features amphibious attack demonstration. So far, RIMPAC 2018 has held 25 exercises. Sunday's 26th exercise involved an amphibious assault, landing forces on a potentially hostile shore. KHON2.

RIMPAC: Sea-to-shore show of force. It was the culminating event for U.S. Marines participating in the 26th Rim of the Pacific exercise, which ends Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

After years of advocacy, some 17,500 square miles of ocean around the main Hawaiian isles will be designated as protected critical habitat for Hawaii’s endangered false killer whales. Star-Advertiser.

According to the AARP of Hawaii, Medicare contributes $2.4 billion to Hawaii’s economy, equivalent to 15% of state and local government spending in the state. Big Island Now.

A new study by AARP found that Medicare contributes $2.4 billion to Hawaii’s economy, equivalent to 15 percent of state and local government spending in the state. Pacific Business News.

If You’re Poor In Hawaii, A Visit To The Dentist Is A Luxury. With no state funding for adult dental care, thousands of people go to emergency rooms seeking relief from cavities and other problems. Civil Beat.

Hotel industry sees midyear gains. In the first half of this year, Hawaii’s hotel industry had the highest revenue per available room, or RevPAR, and highest average daily rate, or ADR, among its competitors in top U.S. markets. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

This Ewa Senate Race Between A Lobbyist And A Lawmaker Is Getting Hot. Rep. Matt LoPresti says Senate President Ron Kouchi is distorting the facts to help lobbyist Alicia Maluafiti win the election. Civil Beat.

Councilman is accused of harassing aide who helped rival. Councilman Ikaika Anderson alleged Councilman Trevor Ozawa harassed his staff aide for sign-waving in support of one of Ozawa’s opponents in the Aug. 11 primary election. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell uses public safety to justify obstruction bills. Using a row of lean-tos on River Street in Chinatown as a backdrop, Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell scolded two Honolulu City Council members Saturday for shelving two bills he said would get more homeless people off city sidewalks. Star-Advertiser.

Thomas Square reopens in Honolulu with a special celebration. Hawaii News Now.

La Hoihoi Ea: The Annual Celebration of Hawaiian Restoration drew hundreds for a day of education, cultural sharing, community networking and free music. KITV.

New rules affecting ocean and surfing events on Oahu will go into effect on Monday. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Ige’s New Campaign Ad Features Endorsement From Mayor Kim. Governor David Ige has just unveiled a campaign advertisement featuring a Hawaii Island leader whose opinion carries a lot of weight on the Big Island. Big Island Video News.

Manipol-Larson faces white nationalist in GOP primary. It might be unusual to see more than one Republican on the primary ballot for a seat like state House District 2, which sits in heavily Democratic Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

Big Island hotels see drop in RevPAR due to ongoing volcanic activity. Big Island hotels were the only ones to report a drop in RevPAR in June, falling 8.3 percent to $163.91, ADR also declined, down 0.3 percent to $239. Occupancy was down 6 percentage points to 68.6 percent. Pacific Business News.

More than 60 acres of macadamia trees in Puna have been overrun by lava or, by being in the evacuation zone, are vulnerable to theft by humans and wild pigs. Hawaii News Now.

Latest lava flow could set new record. Sunday marks 87 days since the first eruption inside Leilani Estates. KITV.

A proposal for a lava viewing area in the Noni Farms area of Puna has been shared with the County administration, but a decision has yet to be made. Big Island Video News.

Evacuees, volunteers reflect on shelter experience after nearly three months. Tribune-Herald.

Volunteers continue restoration at anchialine pools. Tribune-Herald.

Commentary: Editor responds to election section criticism. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Familiar faces to Maui politics are vying for former House Speaker Joe Souki’s House District 8 seat in a four-way, winner-take-all contest in the Aug. 11 Democratic primary. Maui News.

Early walk-in voting begins Monday at a new location on Maui — the Velma McWayne Santos Community Center in Wailuku, the Office of the County Clerk announced. Maui News.

Tour Bus Overturns on Hana Hwy, 3 Transported to Hospital. Maui Now.

West Maui Beach Access Group Sues Condo Over Shoreline Construction. Maui Now.

Program to provide free medical, dental, vision care in August. Tropic Care is a military readiness training program. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai access placards to be swapped for decals. Residents and nongovernmental agencies seeking access into the Wainiha- Haena area will be required to exchange placards previously required for entry for window decals. Star-Advertiser.

Wetlands created. More than 100 new trees and shrubs are now at home at the Makauwahi Cave Reserve on Kauai’s South Shore, many of them planted in five new wetlands that have recently been completed. Garden Island.

The first installment of real property taxes on Kauai for the 2018-2019 tax year is due Aug. 20. Garden Island.

Friday, July 27, 2018

Pence coming to Hawaii to receive Korean war remains, locals dread tourism rise, Ige and Hanabusa spar over environment, Caldwell touts regulation of vacation rentals, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2018 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Hawaii beach scene ©2018 All Hawaii News
Vice President Pence coming to Hawaii to receive possible remains of U.S. service members from North Korea. Vice President Mike Pence will travel to Hawaii next week when the remains of possible U.S. service members who died in the Korean war arrive at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam to be identified. Star-Advertiser.

The remains of over 50 American soldiers killed in the Korean War will soon be headed to Hawaii after a United States military plane successfully retrieved the remains on Thursday. Hawaii News Now.

Korean War remains make way to Oahu. Fifty-five cases of possible American remains were flown out of North Korea by a U.S. Air Force C-17 cargo aircraft today, setting up their arrival next week at Joint Base Pearl Harbor- Hickam for identification as part of a historic turnover brokered between President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Star-Advertiser.

As tourism rises, residents less positive. Some 61 percent of the 1,600 or so Hawaii residents who participated in the Hawaii Tourism Authority Resident Sentiment Survey, which was conducted by Omnitrak from Oct. 13 to Jan. 16, said they strongly or somewhat agreed with the statement, “Tourism has brought more benefits than problems.” Star-Advertiser.

Four Takeaways From Hawaii’s Pre-Primary Election Spending. Gubernatorial candidate Colleen Hanabusa is the big winner in labor unions’ super PAC sweepstakes, election reports show. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Conservation Alliance hosted a Gubernatorial Candidate Forum on the Environment today. The Democratic and Republican candidates for governor were asked four questions, provided beforehand, on what they’d do if elected as the state’s chief executive. Hawaii Public Radio.

Candidates for governor tout their green credentials at forum. Hawaii News Now.

Hanabusa Attacks Ige’s 2005 Vote Against Environmental Fund. Ige says he doesn’t remember why he voted against creation of the Legacy Land Conservation Program, but that he supports it now. Civil Beat.

Former fighter pilot declared Pacific Air Forces commander. A former F-16 fighter pilot who later had key roles in Libya operations and the air war against the Islamic State took command of Pacific Air Forces on Thursday at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam. Star-Advertiser.

Stock sale ups First Hawaiian Bank’s net in quarter. First Hawaiian Bank’s net income in the second quarter grew 21.4 percent over the previous year to $69.1 million, or 50 cents per share, following a large stock sale by its former majority shareholder. Star-Advertiser.

First Hawaiian reports 21 percent increase in net income for Q2 2018. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

The mayor Thursday unveiled a bill that allow homeowners to set up bed-and-breakfast establishments where they live but bans nonowner transient vacation units in residential zones. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor Proposes Sweeping Changes In Vacation Rental Rules. The bill would make it easier for residents to rent out part of their homes but limit the number of properties listed by absentee owners. Civil Beat.

Mayor's new bill proposes more vacation rentals, stiffer fines. Hawaii News Now.

Proposed bill could push vacation rentals out of residential neighborhoods. KHON2.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell is going to introduce three new bills to city council dealing with short term rentals. They call for harsh penalties for violators. KITV.

Caldwell vetoes military tax exemption measure. A bill giving military service members living in homes they purchased on Oahu an additional break on property taxes was vetoed by Mayor Kirk Caldwell this week. Star-Advertiser.

Dozens of sex predators are registered as living in Oahu parks, review shows. A Hawaii News Now investigation has revealed some alarming gaps in the system, including vague addresses and dozens of convicted sex predators living places where you hope children can be safest. Hawaii News Now.

Blessing held for ‘micro-housing’ tower in Kakaako. The project, Nohona Hale, is unique because it’s the first tower of purely “micro- unit” rental apartments to be built in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

State officials made the first step toward the completion of Hawaii's first affordable micro-housing complex with a ground breaking ceremony in Kakaako on Thursday. Hawaii News Now.

The first ever micro-unit project is set to be built on Oahu. Nohona Hale is being constructed on Cooke Street. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Hanabusa Attacks Ige On Mistaken Release Of Murder Suspect. The hunt for the murder suspect mistakenly released from a Hilo correctional facility has taken a political turn. Big Island Video News.

Gov. David Ige said Thursday evening he’s “deeply concerned” about what the Department of Public safety admitted was the “erroneous release” of murder suspect Brian Lee Smith Tuesday at Hawaii Community Correctional Center. Tribune-Herald.

State lawmaker demands accountability following mistaken release of Big Island suspected murderer. KHON2.

Law enforcement is looking for the suspect in last month’s fatal shooting on Painted Church Road after he was “erroneously released” from Hawaii Community Correctional Center on Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Murder Defendant Mistakenly Released From Jail. Brian Lee Smith was being held on $1.5 million bail in connection with a June shooting death in South Kona. Associated Press.

A manhunt is underway for a 49-year-old man awaiting trial for murder who was mistakenly released from a Big Island jail Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

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Jack’s Tours comes to an end. The decline in tourism on the Big Island following the Kilauea eruption claimed another business Wednesday when Hilo-based tour company Jack’s Tours announced its intention to close at the end of the month. Tribune-Herald.

Big Island Charter School Buried in Lava Finds New Home. Hawaii Public Radio.

Experts Talk About Effect of Kilauea’s Current Eruption on Marine Life. Big Island Now.

The Hawaii County Department of Water Supply on Wednesday challenged assertions that it’s obligated to buy a specified amount of wind power to run eight deep wells in South Kohala. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Candidates for the open West Maui County Council residency seat said they wanted to see a better public transportation system for West Maui, more efforts on the part of hotels to provide housing and transportation for workers and solutions to coastal erosion that didn’t involve seawalls. Maui News.

No-Cost Maui County Tropic Care Clinic, Aug. 11-19 in Lahaina. Maui Now.

Kauai

The Hanalei post office is set to reopen Monday, more than three months after the building was damaged in Kauai’s April flooding. Garden Island.

Kauai waters are now critical habitat for false killer whales, thanks to a National Marine Fisheries Service designation published Tuesday in the Federal Register. Garden Island.

Kauai hotels do well in 1st first half of 2018. Kauai’s hotels led the state in growth of revenue per available room (RevPAR) for the first six months of 2018 ($233, plus 15.2 percent), boosted by increases in average daily room rate (ADR) to $295 (plus 12 percent) and occupancy of 79.2 percent (plus 2.2 percentage points). Garden Island.

The stock on the shelves was dwindling at Ishihara Market Thursday afternoon as loyal customers dropped by to say mahalo to the Ishihara family for more than 80 years of business in Waimea. Garden Island.

Thursday, July 26, 2018

Honolulu suspect dead, police officer injured in Waianae shootout, campaign signs must carry disclosures, Ige's housing claims questioned, lawsuit follows lava loss, more news form all the Hawaiian Islands

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HGEA volunteers make campaign signs during 2016 elections ©2018 All Hawaii News
The state Campaign Spending Commission voted unanimously Wednesday to require advertisement disclaimers be included on all campaign committees’ signs and banners, effective Aug. 20. The requirement had been waived because the Legislature voted to eliminate it, but Gov. Ige vetoed the measure. Civil Beat.

A man is dead and a Honolulu police officer was seriously injured during an hours-long standoff in Nanakuli, officials said. Hawaii News Now.

Suspect dead, police officer injured in early-morning shootout in Waianae. Star-Advertiser.

Police investigating apparent officer-involved shooting in Nanakuli. KHON2.

Ige’s housing claims questioned. Gov. David Ige says he’s created thousands of new affordable homes as part of his goal of building 10,000 units by 2020 to help address Hawaii’s housing crisis. Star-Advertiser.

Hanabusa Softens Criticism Of Ige But Stays On Message. The Democratic candidate for governor fields questions on rail, super PACs, homelessness and women. Civil Beat.

Ad Watch: Hawaii Governor’s Race Switches Into Attack Mode. A large construction union is behind an effective ad attacking Gov. David Ige’s response to the false missile alert. Civil Beat.

Carroll Breaks Out Radical New Proposals In His Bid To Be Governor. The Republican candidate calls for eliminating the general excise tax and holding an election on whether to restore the Hawaiian kingdom. Civil Beat.

This Murky Law Could Give The Governor Broad New Powers. A new law on emergency administrative rules could make potentially major changes to a key policymaking process. Civil Beat.

Army fires more missiles during seafaring RIMPAC. The U.S. Army on Tuesday fired a Humvee-mounted Stinger missile at a drone flying over water during Rim of the Pacific, adding to its role in what is largely an exercise for international naval forces. Star-Advertiser.

Elemental Excelerator said it will receive an additional $30 million from the Office of Naval Research, raising the Navy’s total funding commitment to more than $60 million. Pacific Business News.

NOAA issues rule protecting habitat for false killer whales. A federal agency will designate waters around Hawaii as protected critical habitat for endangered false killer whales. Associated Press.

Breaking the Silos: Collective Insights for Community Stewardship in Hawaii. Hawaii Public Radio.

Central Pacific Financial Corp., parent company of the state’s fourth-largest bank, reported net income of $14.2 million in the second quarter of 2018, up 18.3 percent from the year-earlier period. Star-Advertiser.

Central Pacific Financial Corp., the Honolulu-based parent of Central Pacific Bank, reported net income of $14.2 million, or 48 cents per diluted share, for the quarter ending June 30, compared to net income of $12 million, or 39 cents per diluted share, for the second quarter of 2017. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Super PAC Be Change Now this week sent a scathing mailer attacking incumbent Councilwoman Carol Fukunaga, who is seeking re-election in District 6. Star-Advertiser.

2 homeless bills stall in committee. Two bills making it illegal for people to “lodge” or otherwise obstruct pedestrians on city sidewalks islandwide were deferred by a City Council committee Wednesday after homeless advocates and council members questioned whether they pass legal muster. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council is advancing a bill to prevent large commercial vehicles from clogging narrow residential streets. Hawaii Public Radio.

Thousands have discovered Koko Crater Trail. ... And that's the problem. Hawaii News Now.

The city has moved nearly 60 abandoned vehicles that were temporarily stored at two Oahu golf course parking lots. Hawaii News Now.

No court date has been set yet for a 41-year-old Honolulu police officer charged with 16 offenses of abuse of a family member, reckless endangering and terroristic threatening. Star-Advertiser.

Controlled explosions scheduled to destroy dredged military munitions. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Activity in Kilauea Volcano summit area continues to build. Seismic activity at the summit area of Kilauea Volcano steadily increased Wednesday as conditions progressed toward another cyclical collapse at Halemaumau Crater. Star-Advertiser.

Couple who lost home to eruption file lawsuit against their insurer, Lloyd’s of London. Tribune-Herald.

Big Island couple who sued insurer for not covering lava damage could be first of many. Hawaii News Now.

Puna residents are ticked off after getting citations they feel weren't deserved. Hawaii News Now.

DOT crews assessing damage to Highway 11. One lane of Highway 11 was closed Wednesday as state Department of Transportation crews addressed a sinkhole that opened in the road’s surface last week. Tribune-Herald.

Today, the state teamed up with the US. Coast Guard to look for any green sea turtles that could be trapped by lava flowing into the ocean. Big Island Video News.

Coastline Inspected for Turtles Threatened By Lava. Big Island Now.

Puna residents criticize DLNR for turtle deaths. Green sea turtles trapped in ponds and nearshore waters superheated by lava have been dying, Puna residents report, but governmental agencies have ignored their pleas for help. Star-Advertiser.

County puts out urgent call for 20 West Hawaii poll workers. With just over two weeks remaining before the Aug. 11 primary election, the county is still short 20 poll workers at West Hawaii precincts. West Hawaii Today.

Board OKs double-hulled canoe tours at Kealakekua Bay. The Board of Land and Natural Resources earlier this month gave a green light to a local business allowing it to move forward with plans to use Napoopoo Landing for commercial tours at Kealakekua Bay. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

13-year-old ‘fast track’ project nears ‘no track’. LUC to consider reverting 116 acres in Waiehu to agriculture. Maui News.

Homeless Sweep in Kihei Comes in Response to Multiple Complaints. Maui police responded to the area below Waiakoa Uka Bridge in Kihei early Friday morning, intending to issue notices to vacate to homeless individuals reportedly using the area as an encampment. Maui Now.

Former MPD captain pleads guilty to sexual misconduct. Former Maui Police Department Capt. Stephen Orikasa pleaded guilty Wednesday to sexually touching a female police sergeant last year. Maui News.

Ecotourism: Maui training program aims at boosting environmental education and awareness. KHON2.

Kauai

It looked like scientists from Cascadia Research Collective found a new species in Kauai waters in August 2017. Now the report is out that confirms that they did, in fact, document the first-ever hybrid between a melon-headed whale and a rough-toothed dolphin during the two-week project. Garden Island.

Wednesday, July 25, 2018

Appeals court rules Hawaii's open-carry gun law unconstitutional, cop killer's alleged accomplices in court, Maui sand mining moratorium extended, lots of politics and more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

SIG Pro semi-automatic pistol PC:Augustas Didzgalvis
Appeals Court: Hawaii Can’t Restrict Openly Carrying A Gun In Public. If the ruling stands, the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruling could lead to more guns in public in states like Hawaii and California that have restrictive laws. Associated Press.

The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled Tuesday that the Constitution protects the right to openly carry a gun in public for self-defense, rejecting Hawaii's claims that the right to carry only applies to firearms kept at home. Hawaii News Now.

Federal court of appeals ruled Hawaii's gun law violates constitutional rights. KHON2.

Gun enthusiasts welcome court ruling by a three-judge panel of the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals in favor of carrying a firearm in public for self-defense. Star-Advertiser.

Appeals court sides with Big Isle man in case about open carry of guns. The 9th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals on Tuesday sided with a Big Island man when it ruled the Second Amendment affords the right to openly carry a gun in public for self-defense. Tribune-Herald.

Hilo veteran has pushed for gun rights for 6 years. George Young Jr., a Chinese-Hawaiian Vietnam veteran from Hilo, wasn’t surprised after winning a lawsuit for the right to openly carry a gun for protection, a victory that could have significant implications for the Aloha State. Star-Advertiser.

State lawmakers are warning that a federal appeals court decision striking down state restrictions on who can carry a firearm in public could make Hawaii a more dangerous place to live. Star-Advertiser.

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In Crowded Race For Congress, Democrats Span Ideological Spectrum. Unlike candidates in many blue districts on the mainland, “progressives” have struggled to find traction in Hawaii’s 1st Congressional District Democratic primary. Civil Beat.

New attack ads slamming the governor and a local councilwoman surface. It is 18 days until the primary election and a Super-PAC with a history of negative campaigning has launched a series of new attack ads. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii Regional Council of Carpenters is boosting its spending on advertising to support U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa and oppose Gov. David Ige just as early absentee ballots are being cast in the Democratic primary, according to new reports filed with the Hawaii Campaign Spending Commission. Star-Advertiser.

Video: Meet the four people running for the OHA Trustee seat. KITV.

Fake Service Animal Owners Face Consequences. The growing problem of people bringing their pets into clinics and dentist offices, grocery stores restaurants, shopping malls and even movie theaters has struck a nerve. Hawaii Public Radio.

Florida and Hawaii lead nation in shark attacks. Florida by far led the country in shark attacks between 2007 and 2016, with 244, according to an analysis by the SafeWise security company. Hawaii came in second with 65. Star-Advertiser.

Union: Marriott Agrees To Subsidize Hotel Workers’ Housing. Local 5 also says that the company has promised to install panic buttons in response to sexual harassment concerns. Civil Beat.

Marriott has agreed to contribute to a housing fund to help hotel workers deal with the high cost of housing in Hawaii, according to representatives from Unite Here Local 5 who are in the midst of collective bargaining. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Air reports $79.5 million profit. The Honolulu-based company said it had net income of $1.56 per share. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

4 Council seats to be decided by voters. Because Oahu has a population of more than 1 million people, each of the nine Honolulu City Council members represents more than 100,000 constituents. Star-Advertiser.

2 seasoned state lawmakers vying for Senate seat that covers Kailua, Kaneohe. With state Sen. Jill Tokuda deciding to run for lieutenant governor, her Senate seat is up for grabs.  Hawaii News Now.

Health Department rips city for illegal wastewater leaks from garbage trucks. Health Department investigators said the city could face fines of up to $25,000 per day per violation if it doesn’t address the problems. Hawaii News Now.

New report says Airbnb, HomeAway users spent $1.1 billion on Oahu in 2017. One of every seven visitors to Oahu stayed in alternative accommodations last year, spending about $1.1 billion, according to a report released Tuesday by Kloninger & Sims Consulting LLC. Pacific Business News.

More than 4,200 solar panels to be installed at HNL to meet green energy goal. New solar modules will be installed at Honolulu airport as part of Hawaii's goal of reaching 100 percent renewable energy by 2045. Hawaii News Now.

Kahauiki Village Daycare and Preschool Blessed. An on-site children’s facility was blessed today at a plantation-style affordable housing village near Sand Island. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

An associate of Justin Waiki told authorities the fugitive cop killer intended to shoot it out with police, according to a court document filed by prosecutors in Kona. Jamie Jason, the 35-year-old woman who hid with Waiki under a blanket in the rear of a sport-utility vehicle, told police she held the stolen .38 revolver and extra rounds of ammunition while Waiki took a swim at a beach at Ka Lae, aka South Point, shortly before the violent end of a 60-hour manhunt on Friday. Tribune-Herald.

Suspect: I tried to get cop killer to turn self in. Malia Lajala told police she asked Justin Waiki on Friday to turn himself in the days after he became a suspect in last week’s shooting death of Officer Bronson Kaliloa. West Hawaii Today.

'I saw everything.' Cop killer's alleged accomplice reveals new details of deadly shootout. KHON2.

A "bombshell" claim on tape played in a Kona court room Tuesday. A woman inside the vehicle with accused "cop killer" Justin Waiki told police he shot his alleged accomplice as officers moved-in. KITV.

Law enforcement agencies that offered rewards for information leading to the arrest of a man suspected of killing a Hawaii police officer haven't made decisions about who will receive more than $30,000. Hawaii News Now.

Proving Waiki's friends were accomplices to attempted murder will be challenging, says law expert. KHON2.

Connection of other officer shooting unconfirmed. More than 10 shots were fired during a pursuit last week that injured the driver of the suspected vehicle in the arm, according to testimony during a preliminary hearing Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

Vacation rental bill heads to planning commissions. Hawaii County Council members approved a fourth version of a vacation rental bill Tuesday, fine-tuning a measure that’s generated a lot of controversy from those on both sides of the issue. West Hawaii Today.

Disabled or unemployable veterans would pay no property taxes under a bill advanced Tuesday by the County Council Finance Committee. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii County Water Board voted Tuesday to raise the power cost charge to ratepayers, while choosing to defer action in a power purchase agreement dispute between the Department of Water Supply and Lalamilo Wind Company. West Hawaii Today.

Hamakua residents attended a political forum at the Honokaa People’s Theater on Monday evening, which featured candidates for State House and State Senate. Big Island Video News.

The U.S. Senate passed legislation Tuesday instructing the federal government to evaluate the damage done by the Kilauea eruption to the Big Island’s economy. Tribune-Herald.

County Council to consider resolution to rename fissure 8. Tribune-Herald.

DLNR Responds To Criticism Over Sea Turtles Killed By Lava. As images of dying sea turtles and cited lava viewers spread online, the state tried to quell social media unrest with a written statement. Big Island Video News.

State officials said eight more people have been cited for loitering in the East Rift Eruption Zone in Puna, seven of them since Monday, bringing the total so far to about 90 since early May. Star-Advertiser.

An unknown disease is killing wild horses in Waipio Valley on Hawaii Island. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui

A Maui County Council committee voted Monday to recommend extending a moratorium on sand mining in Central Maui through Dec. 31, allowing the county time to complete a study on sand availability and possibly pass new laws regulating sand mining. Maui News.

Hololani resort’s latest effort to halt erosion of beach faces lawsuit. Plaintiffs: Driving in sheet piles needs greater review. Maui News.

Panel looks to roll back park facility fees. Complaints of increase cost, logistics cited. A Maui County Council committee today will review a recently passed $20 across-the-board fee hike for use of county parks facilities amid complaints from the public and the need to close parks permits offices for a week to implement the change manually. Maui News.

Community stunned by trees mowed down in west Maui, but state defends project. West Maui residents were shocked recently to see dozens of trees chopped down to their stumps near Honolua Bay. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Opening arguments were heard Tuesday in Fifth Circuit Court in a jury trial against the former Kauai Police Department officer who would eventually become head of the Department of Land and Natural Resources on Kauai. Garden Island.

New charter school readies for opening. Dr. Kani Blackwell put out a call for help to unload the Alakai O Kauai “School in a Box” at the site of the newest charter school at Kahili Mountain Park. Garden Island.

Commentary: Affordable housing — closing the loop on Bill 2687. Affordable housing is at crisis levels. Garden Island.

Tuesday, July 24, 2018

Lava overtaking popular boat ramp, park; affordable housing spurs campaign accusations; suspects charged with abetting cop killer; Honolulu airport upgrades proceeding; more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

USGS United States Geological Survey
Lava flow July 22, 2018 PC:USGS
Big Island residents are watching in horror as a lava flow from fissure 8 creeps steadily closer to a popular and beloved boat ramp in Pahoa. Hawaii News Now.

Lava flow from fissure 8 may go on for months or years. That’s the conclusion of a recent U.S. Geological Survey report prepared for Hawaii County Civil Defense. Star-Advertiser.

The eruption of Kilauea Volcano along the lower East Rift Zone, which scientists said could last for “months to years” in a new report, continues. Big Island Video News.

Turtles, marine life found dead in Pohoiki after lava approaches area. Hawaii News Now.

Passengers Recount Moments After Lava Hit Tour Boat. A couple from Portland who both suffered burns still managed to shoot video of the mishap. Associated Press.

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Credit for affordable housing sparks political clash. Congresswoman Colleen Hanabusa, who is seeking to beat Gov. David Ige in the Aug. 11 Democratic primary, has accused the governor of taking undue credit for the $200 million in funding, saying that it’s the Legislature that should be applauded. Star-Advertiser.

Political Analyst Dan Boylan on Congressional District One Race . Hawaii Public Radio hosted a Congressional District One Candidate Forum Sunday Night and asked a political analyst to evaluate the race. Hawaii Public Radio.

Bank of Hawaii Corp.’s second-quarter net income totaled $54.7 million — $1.30 earnings per share, a record high for the state’s second-largest financial institution. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

HPD Hopes Body Cameras Will Reduce Confrontations — And Lawsuits. At a cost of $3.5 million, Honolulu will equip all its officers with body cameras during the next year — following a step taken by many large urban departments. Civil Beat.

HDOT moves forward with $69M renovation project at Honolulu airport. Officials announced the completion of several parts of a $69 million renovation project in the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport on Monday. Hawaii News Now.

New bill could set up future bikeshares to come to Honolulu. The new City Council proposal sets up a permit process with rules to follow, which could open the door for more bikeshare companies to do business in Honolulu. KHON2.

Familiar Faces Return For Another Run At State House Seats. Former legislators try to regain their seats in Waianae and Ewa, while a candidate who narrowly lost in 2016 runs again in Manoa. Civil Beat.

5,000 soldiers participate in Army activity. While naval forces are at sea for Rim of the Pacific, the Army is holding its own big exercise, with lots of troops on the ground, military vehicles on the move and helicopters in the air as they practice against what are known as “near-peer” competitors. Star-Advertiser.

An eight-person crew from Oahu Junk Removal began clearing out tons of metal, rubbish and overgrown foliage from a Pensa­cola Street property, where a fourth vehicle was unexpectedly discovered among the debris Monday. Star-Advertiser.

Two Native Hawaiian practitioners no longer face charges for illegally taking the remains of a small, ailing whale the pair watched over before it died and burying them at sea off Kawaihae. Associated Press.

Safeway to take over old Sports Authority location in Waikele. Safeway has signed a 20-year lease for approximately 50,000 square feet in the former Sports Authority space at Waikele Center in Waipahu. KHON2.

Safeway Inc. will open its first grocery store in Waipahu next year in the former Sports Authority space at Waikele Center. Star-Advertiser.

USS Arizona Memorial won't be accessible to visitors for a couple more months. KITV.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii island police have identified four more suspects who may have provided assistance to accused cop killer Justin Waiki before he was gunned down by police in a shootout in Kau Friday. Star-Advertiser.

The manhunt that started when Officer Bronson Kaliloa was fatally shot and culminated with officers shooting and killing the suspect, Justin Waiki, “took up a lot of resources,” said police Maj. Robert Wagner on Monday. Tribune-Herald.

A preliminary hearing has been scheduled for this afternoon for three individuals charged in connection with a shootout Friday at South Point that left a Hawaii Police sergeant injured and suspected cop killer Justin Waiki dead. West Hawaii Today.

Court documents show Waiki's accomplices used Facebook to avoid cops. Four people allegedly involved in the manhunt for Justin Waiki appeared before Judge Margaret Masunaga in Kona Monday. KITV.

Hawaii County government has cleaned up its act regarding its pCard use, according to a report to be discussed today by the County Council Finance Committee. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii to receive $3.5M in federal grant funding for clean-up efforts on Big Island. Pacific Business News.

Officials announced on Monday that families displaced by the ongoing volcanic and seismic activity in Kilauea will soon be eligible for food assistance from the state. Hawaii News Now.

Seismic activity causes cracks to form in surface of Highway 11 passing through national park. Tribune-Herald.

Water department requests power cost charge increase despite renewable energy to spare. West Hawaii Today.

Candidates jockeying to win a position on Hawaii’s 2018 general election ballot say at least one Big Island newspaper is requiring them to buy an ad if they want to be included in the newspaper’s primary voter’s guide. Civil Beat.

Maui

$4 M in Grants Released by Maui Economic Development Office. Maui Now.

Volcano dogs: Looking for new homes after Kilauea. Pups displaced by the ongoing eruptions on the Big Island in need of new forever homes on Maui. Maui News.

Animal rescue groups and volunteer pilots are finding new homes on Maui for dogs displaced by the Kilauea volcano eruption on the Big Island. Associated Press.

Kauai

A protest of one stopped the state’s preliminary work on a North Shore bridge Monday morning. Garden Island.

Makaala Kaaumoana, chairwoman of Hui Hoomalu i kaaina, said there is another issue that could delay North Shore bridge work. Garden Island.

County officials announced that refuse collection services for residents affected by the April flood in the Wainiha and Haena area will continue. Garden Island.

Monday, July 23, 2018

Super PAC influences lieutenant governor's race, Ige criticized over rail stance, pro-white candidate ousted, services set for fallen police officer, alleged accomplices charged, lots of politics plus more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2018 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Lieutenant governor candidates at forum ©2018 All Hawaii News
Super PAC spending in lieutenant governor’s race a ‘mystery’. Why is a union-backed super PAC spending hundreds of thousands of dollars on advertising to back a candidate for a political office that has little power and that historically has not played a role in the union’s bread-and-butter issue, rail?
 Star-Advertiser.

Lawyer Vs. Engineer: Governor’s Race A Battle Of Leadership Styles. Personalities, not ideologies, are at the heart of the contest between incumbent David Ige and Congresswoman Colleen Hanabusa. Civil Beat.

The primary will decide many Democrat-heavy races. As the Hawaii Republican Party has weakened over the years, Hawaii’s primary election has become more important than ever.  Star-Advertiser.

Trying To Build ‘Generation One’ Of Micronesian Voters. Could younger Micronesian-Americans, many of whom will eventually have the right to vote unlike their parents, be Hawaii’s next big voting bloc? Civil Beat.

Several women in leadership roles held a news conference Sunday at the state Capitol to blast Gov. David Ige for a campaign commercial that they say presents a double standard against women. Star-Advertiser.

On the steps of the State Capitol on Sunday morning, a group of women led by House Majority Leader Della Au Belatti voiced their concerns over what they call "misleading tactics" by Gov. David Ige's campaign. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiian Electric receives 12 applications for community solar projects. Concerns that Hawaii's new community solar program may not attract sufficient interest, especially during the initial program phase, seem to have been unfounded after Hawaiian Electric received 12 applications within the first 10 days of its launch. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

House Speaker Scott Saiki is publicly criticizing Gov. David Ige for saying earlier this month he is “open” to another extension of the half-percent state excise tax to help finance extending the city’s rail project to Manoa. Star-Advertiser.

The City Council Zoning Committee last week moved forward two more bills that would slap tougher penalties on homebuilders who sidestep zoning laws. Star-Advertiser.

Newcomers Challenge A Career Politician In Honolulu City Council Race. Can Carol Fukunaga’s hyperlocal approach overcome the islandwide perspective of three challengers, including one with union backing? Civil Beat.

USS Arizona: Memorial set to reopen in months. Star-Advertiser.

The two Democratic candidates for governor said they favor a public-private partnership to build a new, smaller replacement for aging Aloha Stadium but differ on where the facility should be built. Star-Advertiser.

Aina Haina residents still cleaning up; urged to re-visit FEMA centers before closing. It's been three-and-a-half months since torrential rain devastated parts of East Oahu, and some Aina Haina residents are still cleaning up the mess. KHON2.

Family of Honolulu officer killed in the line of duty reflects on anniversary of his death. It had been 15 years since the last fatal shooting of a Hawaii police officer. KITV.

Shoreline Hotel Waikiki’s renovation aims to attract millennials. A picture is worth $4 million to Shoreline Hotel Waikiki, a boutique hotel that recently underwent a redesign to make itself more Instagram-worthy to attract millennials. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Candidates For Governor Hone Their Messages At Hilo Forum. At a time of upheaval on the Big Island, two Democrats and two Republicans talked about how to build a better future. Civil Beat.

Four gubernatorial candidates sounded off Friday evening on Big Island issues before a crowd of more than 150 at a forum sponsored by local business groups. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Island residents had the chance to see the candidates running for Governor at a candidate forum Friday evening at the Event Center at the Arc of Hilo. Big Island Video News.

‘Pro white’ candidate expelled by state GOP. The Hawaii Republican Party says it expelled a candidate for state House District 2 after it became aware of his racist views. Tribune-Herald.

Four candidates for Hawaii County Council – two each running for Puna districts 4 and 5 – participated in a political forum Thursday night at Hawaii Academy of Arts & Science, or HAAS. Big Island Video News.

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3 accused of helping suspected Big Island cop killer to appear in court. Charges have been filed Sunday against three people in connection to the manhunt for wanted felon Justin Waiki. Hawaii News Now.

Accomplice to murder charges filed in South Point shootout. Three individuals arrested for allegedly aiding and abetting fugitive Justin Waiki, who was killed by police Friday in a shootout on South Point Road, are facing charges that could put them behind bars for the rest of their lives, if convicted. Tribune-Herald.

On Sunday, three people were charged with accomplice to first-degree murder for allegedly helping Justin Waiki hide from police. KITV.

With the manhunt over for suspected cop killer Justin Waiki, tributes are being planned to honor the slain Big Island officer. Hawaii News Now.

Services for Big Island officer killed in line of duty to be held at Afook-Chinen auditorium. Hawaii News Now.

Sgt. Bryan Tina in good condition according to Hawaii County mayor. The three-day manhunt for Justin Waiki is over. It culminated in a violent shootout that left Waiki dead and Sgt. Bryan Tina with a non-fatal gunshot wound. KHON2.

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The flow of tourists to the lava ocean entry slowed but did not stop last week after a tour boat was hit by a “lava bomb,” injuring 23 passengers. Tribune-Herald.

Scientists get rare chance to collect data on impact of lava on marine life, sea water. Tribune-Herald.

New testing underway to discern unknown ailment killing wild horses in Waipio Valley. No one knows how many wild horses in Waipio Valley have perished, or what is killing them. West Hawaii Today.

State terminates grant for $2.7M open space purchase. DLNR Chair Suzanne Case has notified Hawaii County Mayor Harry Kim of the state’s termination of a grant agreement with the County that would have provided $1.33 million in matching funds for the acquisition of over 300 acres of private property that formerly reached the Waiopae coastline in Puna.  West Hawaii Today.

The State Legacy Land Conservation has agreed to terminate the agreement that would have helped Hawaii County purchase 300 acres of private property that reached what was once the Waiopae coastline, after lava inundated all of Kapoho. Big Island Video News.

Maui


After 130 years, kalo is harvested in Kahoma Valley. With the stream flowing again from mauka to makai, residents are able now to plant kalo. Maui News.

Joint effort formed to clean up Ukumehame site. Government and private landowner work to remove cars, homeless camp. Maui News.

The unemployment rate on Maui Island was at 2.6% in June, up from the 1.9% rate in May and down from the 2.8% rate reported at the same time last year. Maui Now.

Kauai

Westside sea level rise is meeting topic. Anyone who lives or works on the Westside is invited to participate in the West Kauai Community Vulnerability Assessment that will assess the area’s vulnerability to hazards like sea level rise and explore solutions. Garden Island.

Guardsmen deploy to Saudi Arabia. The 45-minute deployment ceremony for about 30 members of Charlie Troop, 1st Squadron, 299th Cavalry Regiment, Hawaii Army National Guard, marked what will be a year-long tour. Garden Island.