Friday, August 31, 2018

Hawaii sets tourism record, FEMA, Homeland Security, tour state disasters, lawsuit filed over school bullying, Honolulu advances new homeless laws, more news from all the Hawaiian islands

copyright 2018 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Waikiki beach ©2018 All Hawaii News
July sets single-month record for Hawaii visitors. Despite volcanic-activity related softening on Hawaii island, more visitors came to Hawaii in July than in any other month in the state’s history. Star-Advertiser.

Federal pay freeze could affect tens of thousands of civilian workers in Hawaii. According to the latest numbers from the government, Hawaii has more than 23,000 federal workers including those that work at the Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard. KHON2.

State investigating "price gouging" complaints. About 30 people from Oahu, the Big Island, Maui, and Kauai filed complaints with the state that they paid too much. KITV.

Federal response to Hurricane Lane 'just the beginning'. Secretary of Homeland Security Kirstjen Nielsen arrived in Hawaii on Thursday, one week after rain from Hurricane Lane began pounding Hawaii island, and said the federal government will continue to respond in the wake of the powerful storm. Star-Advertiser.

Lawsuit Slams DOE For ‘Grossly Inadequate’ Anti-Bullying Policies. The suit asks for a court-appointed special master to oversee the anti-harassment program in the Hawaii Department of Education. Civil Beat.

Three families who say their children were bullied or harassed in Hawaii public schools have filed a class-action lawsuit against the state Department of Education. Hawaii News Now.

Classrooms getting more crowded as more kids enroll in public school. KHON2.

Hawaii counties are seeking to block a ballot question that would amend the state constitution to give the Legislature the power to tax investment real estate to fund schools. Associated Press.

During this year's legislative session, state lawmakers approved the language for a statewide ballot referendum on a new amendment to the state constitution. If approved by voters, the amendment would create a state-wide property tax on certain investment properties to fund public schools. But attorneys from all of Hawaii's county governments are now challenging the proposal. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii County joins ballot fight: Lawsuit seeks to strike education tax off Nov. 6 ballot. West Hawaii Today.

A group commissioned by Gov. David Ige has created guidelines for earlier diagnosis and prevention of the potentially crippling rat lungworm disease. Star-Advertiser.

Steroid, spinal tap among new rat lungworm guidelines. Tribune-Herald.

Local Tech Company Aims to Help Farmers Work Smarter. With recent funding from a U.S. Department of Agriculture grant, Smart Yields is now trying to make it easier for local farmers to comply with food safety standards. Hawaii Public Radio.

More than 100 people have applied to become the next CEO of the Hawaii Tourism Authority to replace George Szigeti, who will step down at the end of October. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Committee advances 2 bills targeting building violations. The City Council Zoning Committee on Thursday advanced two bills that target unscrupulous builders and property owners, but postponed a decision on a third bill. Star-Advertiser.

Committee OKs bills to clear homeless from city sidewalks. A City Council committee Thursday approved two bills that would make it illegal for people to obstruct or lodge on city sidewalks. Star-Advertiser.

More Oahu parks to be secured overnight in expanded effort to curb vandalism. Starting this weekend, more than a dozen parks in Leeward, Ewa, and Central Oahu, will be secured and monitored overnight. KHON2.

Applicants sought for Waikiki affordable housing complex for seniors. The Ainahau Vista II project is intended for low-income seniors ages 55 or older. Hawaii News Now.

Jim Nabors' Diamond Head estate on the market for $15M. The oceanfront Hawaii estate belonging to the late Jim Nabors, known best for playing Gomer Pyle on “The Andy Griffith Show” and “Gomer Pyle: USMC” in the 1960s, is on the market for $14.88 million. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island


County wish list grows to $800M. The cost of Hawaii County’s wish list for what is needed to recover from the Kilauea disaster has increased to $800 million, according to the county’s No. 2 official.Tribune-Herald.

Tentative steps toward relaxing restrictions on access to the Puna eruption zone are in the works, with Hawaii island officials preparing to remove two roadblocks in the next week on routes that lead to rugged, 40-foot-tall cooled lava flows that crossed a highway near the coastline. Star-Advertiser.

U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen joined state officials for a briefing on various disaster recovery efforts. Big Island Video News.

No lava spotted at fissure 8. That appears to mark the first time that lava was not seen anywhere since the eruption on Kilauea’s lower East Rift Zone subsided almost four weeks ago. Tribune-Herald.

Pahoa’s Future Discussed With Community Leaders. Approximately 40 to 50 people met at Liko Lehua Pauahi CafĂ© on Thursday, Aug. 30, at 2 p.m. to discuss some of their ideas and concerns with government officials that were available. Big Island Now.

The new commander at Pohakuloa Training Area worked a room of both military supporters and critics during a public meeting in Hilo Wednesday night. Big Island Video News.

Commentary: Puna councilwoman should leave now. Even though it’s only been a week since Puna Councilwoman Jen Ruggles stunned her colleagues by announcing she will refrain from voting or sponsoring legislation because she fears she would be violating international law and committing war crimes against the Hawaiian Kingdom, that’s a week too long to waste on nonsense. West Hawaii Today.

Hurricane Lane Adds to a Wet Year for Big Island Farmers. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui

Ex-Maui Police Officer Sentenced In Theft, Bribery Scheme. The officer took $1,800 from a man during a traffic stop in 2015. Associated Press.

Kuleana landowners and volunteers confront officials. Frustrated kuleana landowners who felt abandoned by the county and community volunteers, who sorted piles of donations, confronted officials Wednesday night in the wake of three brush fires that burned more than 2,000 acres and destroyed at least 21 structures — most of them belonging to kuleana landowners. Maui News.

Restoring water to Kauaula Valley residents top priority. Kuleana families are busy cleaning up before they can rebuild after devastating fire. Maui News.

Kauai

A former Kauai Police Department officer who was convicted of harassment by stalking and the use of a computer in the commission of a separate crime was sentenced to five years of probation and community service in Fifth Circuit Court Thursday. Garden Island.

After enduring pummeling from Lane, Kauai in 'disaster mode'. Hawaii News Now.

Alakai O Kauai charter school opened to 148 students Wednesday for a full day of class. Garden Island.

While the islandwide brown water advisory hasn’t yet been canceled by the state Department of Health, the county Department of Water has canceled the do not drink advisory for customers in Wainiha. Garden Island.

Thursday, August 30, 2018

Hawaii soldier sentenced for planning ISIS mass shooting in Waikiki, counties join education tax lawsuit, Kauai man dies trying to save dog, Maui fire victims say county failed them, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

In this July 8, 2017 file image taken from FBI video and provided by the U.S. Attorney's Office in Hawaii on July 13, 2017, Army Sgt. 1st Class Ikaika Kang holds an Islamic State group flag after allegedly pledging allegiance to the terror group at a house in Honolulu. (FBI/U.S Attorney's Office, District of Hawaii via AP, File)
Army Sgt. 1st Class Ikaika Erik Kang, who faces 25 years in prison for attempting to aid the Islamic State group and its campaign of terror, had planned a mass shooting in downtown Honolulu and in Waikiki just after last year’s Fourth of July, the U.S. Attorney for the District of Hawaii said Wednesday following Kang’s guilty plea in federal court. Star-Advertiser.

A soldier based in Hawaii pleaded guilty Wednesday to trying to help the Islamic State group, telling a judge he provided secret military information, a drone meant to track U.S. troops and other support to undercover agents he believed were members of the terrorist organization. Associated Press.

35-year-old Hawaii-based soldier, Sergeant 1st Class Ikaika Kang pleaded guilty in Federal court Wednesday of trying to help ISIS. KITV.

A Hawaii-based solider pleaded guilty Wednesday to charges of attempting to support ISIS. KHON2.

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Hawaii, Kauai and Maui counties have joined the City and County of Honolulu in a lawsuit that seeks to strike from the November ballot a proposed amendment to the state Constitution that would allow the Legislature to create a “surcharge” on investment properties. Pacific Business News.

Counties sue state to block property tax ballot question. All four counties are suing the state to block a ballot question that would allow a property tax surcharge for schools. KHON2.

The City of Honolulu is seeking to have a question stricken from ballots in the November general election that would give voters the power to amend the Hawaii Constitution to allow the Legislature to tax investment real estate to support public education. Star-Advertiser.

The city wants to strike down a constitutional amendment proposal that would raise taxes on investment properties to help pay for Hawaii's under-funded schools. Hawaii News Now.

Full text of ballot question complaint can be found here.

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Hawaii Supreme Court To Fine-Tune Open Meetings Law. A court opinion in the Honolulu Police Commission’s Kealoha case would also affect the way public boards handle other high-profile staff departures. Civil Beat.

Restocking continues after storm port-closure delays.  Stores across Hawaii are catching up on restocking shelves, following cargo delays from port closures during the storm. KHON2.

Oahu

Prosecutor Appeals Ruling That Barred A Third Trial For Deedy. After two hung juries in earlier trials, a third trial is sought against the federal agent who shot a local man. Associated Press.

Caldwell’s Push To Clear Sidewalks Runs Into Opposition. Honolulu’s mayor wants to ban camping on sidewalks islandwide, but critics insist more housing and services for the homeless are needed first. Civil Beat.

City outlines plans for more bike lanes in downtown Honolulu. The city held a public meeting Wednesday night. KHON2.

The Department of Health is alerting the public of elevated bacteria levels at two Oahu shorelines. The first alert is for those heading to Pokai Bay. The second alert came a day earlier for beachgoers in Waikiki. Hawaii News Now.

University of Hawaii at Manoa proposes higher parking fees. The University of Hawaii at Manoa is proposing to raise parking fees for the first time in eight years and use the money to repair its aging parking facilities. Star-Advertiser.

For years, the trail accessible at Koko Head Regional Park has been deteriorating, according to the group, with many of the cross-ties of the former tramway missing or in disrepair due to wood rot and erosion. At the same time, the trail’s popularity has only grown, spurred by social media posts of the grueling climb and views from the top, at an elevation of 1,200 feet, with panoramic vistas. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Keaau could see its population more than double under a master plan W.H. Shipman released for public comment. The EA describes the project as a “walkable, transit-friendly regional town center concept.” Tribune-Herald.

A bill zeroing out property taxes for totally disabled veterans appeared to be cruising toward easy passage until it got stopped in its tracks last week, leading to likely changes when it comes back before the County Council on Wednesday. West Hawaii Today.

Councilwoman Ruggles Unassured By County Regarding War Crimes. Big Island Video News.

Am I A Criminal? Puna Councilwoman Questions Her Legitimacy. Pointing to the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom, Jen Ruggles says functioning as a County Council member may violate U.S. and international laws. Civil Beat.

Federal Emergency Management Director Brock Long is on the Big Island in the wake of Hurricane Lane. Meanwhile, Hawaii Emergency Management Director Tom Travis said he hopes preliminary figures from the ongoing damage assessment statewide can be tabulated by Monday. Tribune-Herald.

Hurricane Lane Cleanup, Damage Assessment Continues. Big Island Video News.

On the heels of the apparent halt of Kilauea’s eruption earlier this month comes more good news for the Big Island: Its emergency shelter population has dwindled. Star-Advertiser.

The emergency evacuation shelter in Pahoa, which opened May 3 as eruption activity started in lower Puna, will close next month. Tribune-Herald.

Big Island hotel performance continues to suffer from Kilauea volcano. Big Island properties reported a 6 percent drop in RevPAR to $183 last month, while ADR remained flat at $247, and occupancy decreased 4.7 percentage points to 74.2 percent. Pacific Business News.

Four deep wells remain offline in North Kona, but repairs are likely to commence on at least one of them in the next two months. West Hawaii Today.

Two rescued Hawaiian monk seal pups weathered Tropical Storm Lane on the Big Island together and are now like siblings, marine experts said. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

'You failed us': West Maui residents feel abandoned by county during fires. Complaints turned into cursing at a community meeting in Lahaina on Wednesday. Hawaii News Now.

Residents pack public meeting on Maui: 'Everyone who lost a house, stand up'. On Maui, firefighters say strong winds from Lane fueled two massive brush fires: one in Lahaina and another in Kaanapali. KHON2.

Planning panel gives blessing to Waikapu Country Town project. Atherton’s 500-acre development calls for 1,500 housing units. Maui News.

County mulls challenge to replace road, culvert. Rain from Lane washes out access to Haiku cul-de-sac. Maui News.

The Maui County Council passed a bill Tuesday that extended a moratorium on sand mining in Central Maui, allowing the county time to complete a study on sand availability and to possibly pass new laws. Maui News.

Hawaii Wing Civil Air Patrol cadets formed the bulk of a Ground Photography Team working on Maui on Tuesday to gather photographic evidence of the flash-flood impact resulting from Hurricane Lane. Maui Now.

The state will close the Kula Forest Reserve, Waipoli Access Road, Kahikinui Forest Reserve–Papaanui Tract, and Polipoli Springs State Recreation Area for two months beginning on Sept. 4, 2018.  The areas will remain closed through Nov. 2. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kauai Stream Restoration Complicated by Diversion Dependent End Users. For nearly 150 years, fresh water on Kauai has been diverted from streams—first to cultivate sugar cane---and more recently to power hydroelectric plants. Now the state Water Commission is considering reducing the amount of water diverted from two streams flowing from Waialeale. Hawaii Public Radio.

Residents on Kauai's north shore assess damage from Lane's heavy rains. KHON2.

Floodwaters wash away foundations in Hanalei again. Garden Island.

A 30-year-old Koloa man died after he jumped into a stream to save a dog during a storm Tuesday, Kauai police said today. Star-Advertiser.

Firefighters recovered the body of a 30-year-old Koloa man from Waikomo Stream in Koloa Tuesday afternoon. Police have identified him as Joshua Bradbury. Garden Island.

Wednesday, August 29, 2018

New jail slated for Oahu, top lawmakers buy loyalty among peers, tropical storms approach as cleanup continues, council member refuses to vote, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2018 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Razor wire at jail ©2018 All Hawaii News
Gov. David Ige accepts environmental impact statement for relocating Oahu’s overcrowded jail. However, the $525 million project to rebuild the Oahu Community Correctional Center at the state Department of Agriculture’s animal quarantine station could face challenges. Star-Advertiser.

Governor Selects Halawa Animal Quarantine Site for OCCC Replacement Facility. The state is moving ahead with its plan to replace Oahu’s aging jail for pre-trial detainees and those will less than a year sentence. Hawaii Public Radio.

The severely overcrowded Oahu Community Correctional  Center will be relocated to the Animal Quarantine Station site in Halawa. Hawaii News Now.

Larger jail planned for Oahu with Halawa chosen as new site. KHON2.

Hawaii could partner with private developer to build Honolulu jail. Pacific Business News.

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A Hawaii-based soldier plans to plead guilty to charges of attempting to support the Islamic State group. Sgt. 1st Class Ikaika Kang is scheduled to change his plea Wednesday. Associated Press.

Capitol Finance: How Top Lawmakers Build Their Power With Campaign Cash. Top Hawaii House and Senate leaders have given out nearly $200,000 to other candidates since 2006. Civil Beat.

There are now 2 tropical storms churning in the East Pacific. Tropical Storm Miriam is about 1,230 miles east of Hilo, moving west near 13 mph. Tropical Storm Norman was 455 miles southwest of the southern tip of Baja California, Mexico on Tuesday evening, or about 2,699 miles from Hilo. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii Department of Transportation is actively monitoring hazardous road conditions across the state in light of heavy rain and severe flooding from Tropical Storm Lane. Hawaii News Now.

Lessons Learned From The Hurricane That Just Missed Hawaii. Lane didn’t leave the devastation that many feared it would. It did leave Hawaii with a new standard for storm preparation. Civil Beat.

The state has revised its requirements for the rabies quarantine program to cut down on wait times while still preventing the virus from being introduced. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Elections Chief: No Proof Of Vote Tampering In Primary. Dozens of Kalihi residents who filed a lawsuit over the narrow victory of Rep. Romy Cachola haven’t shown any wrongdoing by the state, Scott Nago argues. Civil Beat.

Drivers beware: Issuing traffic tickets just got easier for HPD. Three nighttime Honolulu police officers, three solo bike officers and three parking enforcement officers racked up 80 traffic and parking tickets by midmorning Tuesday under a new mobile automated citation program designed to be more accurate and less time consuming. Star-Advertiser.

Rain increases Ala Wai Canal pollution, causes beach warning. The Ala Wai Canal was a chocolate brown mess Tuesday complete with floating trees, natural debris and trash. Star-Advertiser.

City hosts community meetings on Ala Wai Bridge alternatives analysis. The Department of Transportation Services Complete Streets Program has announced an alternative analysis study titled "Ala Pono: An Ala Wai Crossing," which evaluates alternatives for additional community access including a new bridge between the neighborhoods of Waikiki, Ala Moana, and McCully/ Moiliili. KHON2.

FBI conducts an island-wide drug bust Tuesday. KITV.

The owners of Wailana Coffee House plan to find a new tenant for the restaurant after it closes on Sept. 30. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

County officials were still at a stalemate Tuesday, one week after Puna Councilwoman Jen Ruggles shocked fellow council members by announcing she will refrain from voting or sponsoring legislation because she feared she would be violating international law and committing war crimes against the Hawaiian Kingdom. West Hawaii Today.

Council member Jen Ruggles released a letter on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2018, in response to Corporation Counsel Joe Kamelamela’s opinion regarding possible criminal liability for war crimes. Big Island Now.

Water Board finding puts future of wind farm in question. A decision by the Hawaii County Water Board at its monthly meeting Tuesday may signal the end of an award-winning renewable energy project and prove the impetus for a legal battle with implications amounting to tens of millions of dollars. West Hawaii Today.

East Hawaii Business owners, residents continue cleanup as county tabulates damage done by Hurricane Lane. Tribune-Herald.

Hilo Resident's Book and Music Store Destroyed by Lane. Hawaii Public Radio.

Health officials warn that going into a building that has been flooded, even after the water is gone, can present a wide variety of hazards. Big Island Video News.

Sgt. 1st Class Reymund Rarogal Transfiguracion, a highly decorated special operations soldier who gave his life for his country, has returned home. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park has given 46 people citations since May. KITV.

Recently released into the wild, 11 endangered Hawaiian crows survived recent severe weather brought on by Tropical Storm Lane. Hawaii News Now.

‘These Little Buggers’ Are Taking A Big Bite Out Of Hawaii’s Macadamia Crop. Hawaii is considering introducing a newly discovered wasp to prey on the invasive pest. Civil Beat.

Maui

Former Maui officer sentenced for theft and bribing motorist. Former Maui police officer Anthony Maldonado stole $1,800 from a motorist because he thought the motorist was a drug dealer, had stolen drugs and money from drug dealers before, gave some of the drugs to his mistress and sold steroids to at least one other officer, a federal prosecutor said Tuesday at Maldonado’s sentencing. Star-Advertiser.

Community members are invited to a meeting Wednesday night to discuss the impacts of Lane and a recent string of brush fires over the weekend. KHON2.

Investigation: So far, 'No criminal intent' found in Maui wildfires. Hawaii News Now.

‘The pride runs deep’. First responders rally to save historic Lahainaluna campus. Maui News.

Support in aftermath of fire pours in as Native Hawaiian families on kuleana lands vow to rebuild. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

Rains pound Kauai; bridge, schools, parks closed. Garden Island.

Deluge swamps North Shore. Garden Island.

Lane Resoaks Areas That Were Deluged In April Storm. The Kuhio Highway is closed near Hanalei, where business activity has come to a standstill. Civil Beat.

Michael Bukoski had just moved back into his house on Wailaau Road in Koloa when the notice for voluntary evacuations came across Tuesday morning. Garden Island.

Tuesday, August 28, 2018

Little League world champs hailed in Honolulu, lawsuit filed against property tax ballot initiative, the rain from Lane continues to flood state, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

photo courtesy governor's office
Gov. David Ige greets Little League world champs at Honolulu airport, courtesy photo
The Little League World Series champs from Honolulu landed Monday at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport to a hero’s welcome and were praised by Gov. David Ige and Mayor Kirk Caldwell for representing their state with humility and sportsmanship during their undefeated run in South Williamsport, Pennsylvania. Star-Advertiser.

Crowds, cheers welcome Hawaii's Little League World Series champions at airport. KHON2.

Lawsuit Aims To Stop Proposed Ballot Measure On Education Funding. Honolulu’s city attorney says the ballot title misleads voters on a proposed constitutional amendment. Civil Beat.

Why Progressives In Blue Hawaii Face An Uphill Battle. Five of 14 candidates backed by progressive political organizations survived the Aug. 6 primary. Civil Beat.

Hawaii schools launch mass texting program for parents. About 200 schools across the Aloha State use SchoolMessenger to communicate important information such as school closures and safety alerts. Hawaii News Now.

The most serious hurricane threat to Hawaii in 26 years brought something else with it — unprecedented cooperation between government agencies and the private industries that help keep the islands running, those involved in the response say. Civil Beat.

Stores discourage hurricane returns. Some retailers took pre-emptive measures to avoid a flood of returns following the rush to buy water and other hurricane-related supplies as Hurricane Lane approached the islands. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's Endangered Snails Were Rescued Amid The Threat of Lane. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Heavy rain on Oahu triggers flash flood warning, road closures. Deep tropical moisture associated with Tropical Depression Lane is triggering heavy rain and flooding across Oahu on Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

The Honolulu Board of Water Supply on Monday unanimously gave a final OK to a five-year rate hike schedule that increases water bills for most of its residential users while keeping rates about the same for those who use the bare minimum. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Gov. David Ige is expected to announce a decision this week on where to locate a replacement for the Oahu Community Correctional Center, after signing off on the $525 million project’s final environmental impact statement. Pacific Business News.

Halawa Correctional Facility Warden and Oahu Community Correctional Center Chief of Security named. The Department of Public Safety (PSD) announced the promotion of Scott Harrington as warden for the Halawa Correctional Facility and Thomas Evans as the Oahu Community Correctional Center chief of security, effective September 4. KHON2.

Construction of the Joint Management Center in Honolulu is back on. The project abruptly stopped on July 9th after the City issued a Notice of Termination for Watts Construction for failing to fix numerous issues outlined in a warning letter written in February. KITV.

Hurricane Lane dumped record amounts of rainfall on the Big Island and parts of Maui but spared most of Oahu.  But, public utility and city leaders aren’t waiting for another close call. Hawaii Public Radio.

Residents’ response to Lane was boom or bust for many businesses. Hawaii didn’t take a direct physical hit from Hurricane Lane, which was downgraded to a tropical storm Friday, but it did dampen performance for some businesses. Star-Advertiser.

Glitzy New Driving Range Proposal At Ala Wai Worries The Regulars. Lounges and microchip balls: The city hopes a public-private partnership will re-energize its golf course. Civil Beat.

The trustee of Abigail Kawananakoa’s $215 million estate has asked a judge to appoint a guardian ad litem for the aging heiress because he believes she is not able to make sound decisions about her ongoing court battle. Civil Beat.

Fighting To Save The Crumbling Koko Crater Trail. A group of devoted hikers is hauling bricks up the steep trail to rebuild crumbling steps. Now they want the city to help. Civil Beat.

They hoped it would be their field of dreams. Instead, it's a dust bowl. Ewa Mahiko District Park's football field is mostly dirt and uneven footing. Hawaii News Now.

Loyal patrons returned to Wailana Coffee House on Sunday to savor their foreshortened time with the modest, Polynesian-themed restaurant, which will soon become a wistful memory. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Mayor Harry Kim told department heads and emergency workers Monday he intends preliminary assessment of the damage done by former Hurricane Lane to be completed expeditiously. Tribune-Herald.

Maunakea Visitor Information Station to be closed Sundays. The Maunakea Visitor Information Station was closed Sunday and will be closed on Sundays for the foreseeable future as skyrocketing visitor rates overwhelm the facility. Tribune-Herald.

The U.S. Geological Survey detected a glow coming from deep within the fissure 8 cone Saturday morning, but the glow was no longer observed during Monday morning’s overflight. Star-Advertiser.

No Incandescent Lava Seen In Fissure 8, But Lots Of Steam. Big Island Video News.

National Park Service law enforcement cited 11 people Saturday after they were found illegally entering Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Tribune-Herald.

Woman charged with felony after trying to remove child from school. West Hawaii Today.

Some Waikoloa Village residents will be forced to evacuate their homes over a period of multiple days in September as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers hunts for unexploded ordnance in neighborhoods around the village. West Hawaii Today.

Keala Kawaauhau, a member of the seminal Hawaiian rap group Sudden Rush, Hawaiian activist and longtime Hilo morning radio personality died in his sleep Monday. He was 47. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Thyne chosen new Maui fire chief. David Thyne, a veteran of more than 30 years with the Maui Fire Department, was selected Monday to be the new fire chief. Maui News.

Maui News, DOH clash over release of reports. Judge to decide whether to make public crash case psychiatric assessment findings. The Maui News is supporting and the state health director is opposing the unsealing of court psychiatric reports that led to the acquittal by reason of insanity of a woman who had been charged with murder in a fatal traffic crash. Maui News.

Maui developer Waikapu Development Venture is asking the Maui County Council to fasttrack an 80-unit workforce housing project in Wailuku. Pacific Business News.

Some Upcountry Maui residents remain stranded by giant sinkhole. What used to be the center of Puu Way is now 20 feet below ground level. KHON2.

Heavy flooding is being reported around Maui including parts of Makawao and Wailuku this afternoon. Maui Now.

Ports open but items missing from store shelves. Barge on the way, but no Costco chicken. Maui News.

Kauaula Valley fire victims have one goal: rebuild. Residents grateful for the generosity shown from across the island. Maui News.

Conditions “Unprecedented” in Battling West Maui Fires During Hurricane Warning. Maui Now.

Mauna Kea hearing on Maui planned for Sept. 28. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai highway, school closed as heavy rains drench the island. The National Weather Services said a rain gauge in Hanalei showed rain rates over 4 inches an hour as moisture from Tropical Storm Lane continues to soak parts of the state. Hawaii News Now.

North Shore faces more flooding. It felt like Hurricane Lane skipped Kauai at first. As it turned out, we aren’t out of the woods yet. Garden Island.

Many hoping for strong turnout in general election. The percentage of registered voters on Kauai may have increased in this year’s primary election, but compared with the 2014 election, the number of those who cast ballots decreased. Garden Island.

Monday, August 27, 2018

Hurricane Lane assessment, schools, shipping, postal service resume; impact fees for Honolulu schools, constitutional amendment would change taxation process, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Flooding in Hilo town. PC: Tracey Niimii www.tnphotographyhawaii.com
Lane poured record rainfall on East Hawaii. The preliminary total for Mountain View, subject to final quality control, is 51.53 inches of rain between noon Wednesday and 4 a.m. Sunday. Star-Advertiser.

Government officials on Sunday began their assessments of the damage inflicted upon Hawaii Island from Hurricane Lane. Tribune-Herald.

Southern end of the state mopping up 'devastation' left by Lane. Hawaii News Now.

Ports reopen, cargo operations resume statewide as Lane leaves. Matson Navigation Company has resumed full cargo operations to all of its Hawaii terminals following the Hawaii State Department of Transportation's reopening of Big Island ports to commercial operations Friday and Oahu, Maui and Kauai ports Saturday morning. KHON2.

USPS delivers mail Sunday after Tropical Storm Lane. KHON2.

What Killed Hurricane Lane? Scientists agree high southwest winds helped save Hawaii. “They took its head off,” one says. Civil Beat.

Public schools statewide to open today. All public schools statewide will open today with the exception of four in Lahaina. Star-Advertiser.

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In addition to deciding whether the state should hold a constitutional convention, Hawaii voters on the Nov. 6 general election ballot will be asked to consider a precedent-setting change that would move some of the county’s exclusive power to charge real property taxes to the state’s domain. West Hawaii Today.

Commentary: Hirono acquires fire, while Schatz, as Hawaii’s senior senator, develops diplomacy. Star-Advertiser.

Isle coffee production plunges, report says. One of Hawaii’s premiere crops, coffee, had a disappointing last season with a drop in sales as reduced production overshadowed higher prices, according to a recent federal report. Star-Advertiser.

Saving Hawaii’s Pig Farms. This once-fading island industry is coming to life again thanks to local tastes and strong cultural demand. Civil Beat.

A network of Hawaiian-focused schools is hoping to significantly expand the number of Hawaiian speakers in the state by making language lessons available on Duolingo, a popular free education app. Civil Beat.

Oahu


Developers to pay school impact fees for new homes built in urban Honolulu. Those looking to build a home in the areas between Kalihi and Ala Moana should know that starting Oct. 1 — construction is going to come with an added cost. Hawaii News Now.

Residential builders will have to pay $3,864 as a school impact fee for each new housing unit constructed along the Kalihi to Ala Moana urban corridor starting Oct. 1, a big discount from the $9,374 estimate two years ago. Star-Advertiser.

Board of Water Supply crews are responding to a water main break in Ewa Beach on Monday morning. Honolulu police said one southbound lane of Fort Weaver Road is closed near Keoneula Boulevard. Hawaii News Now.

Wailana Coffee House, the iconic 24-hour family diner in Waikiki, will close at the end of next month. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Making county spending more transparent is the aim of two charter amendments scheduled for the Nov. 6 general election ballot. One measure requires public notice and a chance for public input before raises are granted top county officials, while a second requires a financial impact statement be available to the public for any future charter amendment on the ballot. West Hawaii Today.

For at least five years, the Hawaii Police Department has been looking at ways to fund a body-worn camera program for its officers. However, with a “status-quo” budget, the department keeps coming up short. West Hawaii Today.

Kailua-Kona sees new businesses, developments coming up. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Four Lahaina Schools on Maui Closed on Monday, Aug. 27. Four public schools in Lahaina in West Maui will be closed to students on Monday, Aug. 27, 2018 as the community deals with the aftermath of large brush fires that burned thousands of acres of land and destroyed at least 21 structures. Maui Now.

Lane aftermath. Storm dumps heavy rain, leaves power outages, damaged roads. Maui News.

West Maui residents focus on rebuilding after firefighters contain 2K acre blaze. The destructive fire that broke out in Lahaina early Friday morning is finally 100 percent contained, Maui county officials said on Sunday afternoon. Hawaii News Now.

Brush fire leaves homes in ashes, lives shattered. At least 21 structures damaged or destroyed. Maui News.

Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa talks about the brush fires. KHON2.

Haiku residents describe moments massive crack in road opened. With the bulk of the concentration focusing on West Maui fires, residents in Upcountry Maui are still dealing with the flooding damage brought by Lane. KHON2.

Kauai

On Kauai, it’s back to normal. With the downgrading of Tropical Storm Lane, Young Brothers anticipates resumption of its 12 regularly scheduled weekly sailings starting today. Garden Island.

Builders return to Anaina Hou Playground in Kilauea. Not all the workers were present Sunday when work resumed on the developing Anaina Hou Playground in Kilauea. Garden Island.

Officials say an Alabama man was fined $1,500 for touching a Hawaiian monk seal as well as harassing a sea turtle on Kauai, and then posting the videos on social media. Garden Island.

Friday, August 24, 2018

Photos, videos, news: All the latest on Hurricane Lane from media sources all across the state. Be prepared, stay safe!


Although Lane has been downgraded to a Category 2 hurricane, it still remains an extremely dangerous storm headed north toward Oahu. Packing maximum sustained winds of 110 mph and located about 180 miles south of Honolulu and 145 miles west-southwest of Kailua-Kona, Lane was headed north at 5 mph at 5 a.m. today, according to the Central Pacific Hurricane Center. Star-Advertiser.

Over 1,500 residents move to emergency shelters as Hurricane Lane triggers rains, flooding. Hawaii News Now.

Hurricane Lane is weakening as it continues its slow march toward the island chain, but forecasters warn the cyclone is expected to remain a hurricane as it moves over or comes "dangerously close" to portions of the state through Friday. Hawaii News Now.

Hurricane Lane weakens to category 2 as it continues to move north towards the state. KHON2.

Hurricane Lane weakens to Category 3 storm, rains still a concern. KITV.

LIST: Hurricane Lane impacts roads across the state. Hawaii News Now.

LIST: Active power outages reported across the state. Hawaii News Now.

Hurricane Lane: Live Updates. Civil Beat.

FEMA already on the ground with food, water and supplies. Brock Long, administrator for the Federal Emergency Management Agency, said Thursday that his agency has made a lot of changes in the way it is responding to Hurricane Lane based on the lessons learned in Puerto Rico last year. Star-Advertiser.

State emergency officials have activated a disaster medical response team in anticipation of severe weather throughout the islands. Star-Advertiser.

Hospitals, Clinics Prepare to Provide Care During Storm. Hawaii Public Radio.

More than 800 people evacuate from hurricane. Star-Advertiser.

Drivers race for fuel as supply dwindles. Around 100 or more gas stations were closed Thursday largely for safety precautions ahead of harmful weather from Hurricane Lane that began to hit Hawaii island Thursday and is expected next for Maui County and then Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

What’s closed, postponed or rescheduled in Hawaii in anticipation of Hurricane Lane. Star-Advertiser.

Visitor industry prepares to hunker down. As Hurricane Lane, Hawaii’s most unwelcome guest, prepared to unpack dangerous wind and flooding across the state, the visitor industry scrambled to get hospitality workers to their jobs and get some 270,000 tourists back home or safe inside. Star-Advertiser.

Despite closure of Hawaii ports, supplies are waiting, ready to be delivered. Hawaii News Now.

State economists are forecasting that Hawaii will grow this year at a slower pace than projected. The economy is now expected to expand 1.5 percent in 2018, according to the latest quarterly report released Wednesday by the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. The previous forecast was for 1.9 percent growth. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Lane’s turn west not assured, so next 24 hours will be crucial for Oahu, meteorologist says. Star-Advertiser.

HECO responding to multiple power outages throughout Oahu. KHON2.

A call center has been set up for Oahu residents with questions or concerns ahead of Lane's strongest impacts. Hawaii News Now.

Fear The Hurricane? Not These Hardy Tourists. “We’re the hurricane that hit Honolulu,” says one visitor who arrived in Honolulu with a large extended family. Civil Beat.

As Hurricane Lane approaches Oahu, there are no safeguards in place if the Ala Wai Canal tops its banks and causes major flooding in Waikiki and the surrounding areas. Star-Advertiser.

Many Homeless People Are Choosing To Ride Out The Storm. Outreach workers ramped up efforts to alert the homeless about Hurricane Lane, but some opted to stay in encampments. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

The hurricane warning for Hawaii island was downgraded to a tropical storm warning late Thursday afternoon, but the torrential rain that soaked the windward side this week are expected to continue and might even drench portions of the island through the weekend. Star-Advertiser.

VIDEO: Hurricane Lane – Flash Flood Dangers Continue For Hawaii. Big Island Video News.

Tropical storm conditions and hurricane conditions continue to be a possibility today and tonight as Hurricane Lane churns its way toward the islands. The category 3 storm is expected to pass close to the main islands today, still as a hurricane, bringing damaging winds, according to the National Weather Service. West Hawaii Today.

Civil defense administrator Talmadge Magno gave a rundown on impacts - thus far - from Hurricane Lane, churning to the south southwest of the Big Island. Big Island Video News.

Deluge from Hurricane Lane prompts rescues, road closures. Tribune-Herald.

Seven rescued from Hurricane Lane flooding. Tribune-Herald.

A Windward Drenching, But No Wind Damage Yet. UPDATED: The drenching closes some roads and causes landslides, but strong winds had been reported as of 6:30 p.m. Civil Beat.

Deluge brings water-gawkers out in force. As rain from Hurricane Lane doused the island Thursday, curious onlookers drove over half-flooded streets to watch swollen rivers churn into the ocean despite repeated warnings from county officials to stay off the roads. Tribune-Herald.

Wave riders take advantage of rare opportunity in West Hawaii waters. The National Weather Service office in Honolulu said surf on the island’s west side topped out at roughly 6 feet, based on reports. West Hawaii Today.

Heavy rain from Hurricane Lane caused a wastewater pond at Big Island Dairy to overflow Thursday, sending untreated effluent into a nearby gulch. Jake Mecham, dairy business manager, said the farm, located mauka of Ookala village, received nearly 25 inches of rain in 24 hours. Tribune-Herald.


Maui

As Hurricane Lane continued its agonizingly slow approach toward Hawaii, an untold number of Maui visitors scrambled Thursday to deal with storm-related impacts that included canceled flights and closed parks, beaches, shops and restaurants. Star-Advertiser.

Lahaina brush fire forces relocation of storm shelter, prompts evacuations. Hawaii News Now.

Brush fire on Maui forces evacuation of Lahaina emergency shelter, residents. Star-Advertiser.

Maui Electric Power Outage Updates: 1,990 Lose Power Upcountry. Maui Now.

Stormy weather stalls affordable housing project. Maui News.

Kauai

Waiting for the storm. It was a quiet Thursday around the island as traffic was light and most residents stayed home and visitors stayed in hotels. Garden Island.

When many visitors on Kauai heard Hurricane Lane was barreling their way, they decided to stick it out rather than flee for home. Garden Island.

Red Cross rises to the challenge. After a 12-hour flight from Ohio and a three-hour layover in Honolulu Wednesday, Jan Dayton deboarded the plane at Lihue Airport and headed straight for the Red Cross shelter at Church of the Pacific in Princeville. Garden Island.

Due to Hurricane Lane, cargo flights between Oahu and Kauai have been grounded Thursday and Friday night. Because The Garden Island is printed at Oahu Publications Inc.’s press in Kapolei and delivered to Kauai on those cargo flights, it means TGI’s Friday and Saturday newspapers will not be delivered to homes or available at news stands. Garden Island.

Thursday, August 23, 2018

Cat 4 Hurricane Lane about 200 miles from Hawaiian Islands, Trump issues presidential disaster declaration, emergency shelters open, FEMA arrives, seaports close, here's what you need to know to stay safe

Central Pacific Hurricane Center
Hurricane Lane track 5 a.m. Thursday Central Pacific Hurricane Center
Hurricane Lane continued to weaken slightly overnight but is still moving closer to the islands. Clocking in with maximum sustained winds of 130 mph and moving northwest at 7 mph, Lane was located about 210 miles south-southwest of Kailua-Kona and 305 miles south of Honolulu at 5 a.m., according to the Central Pacific Hurricane Center. Star-Advertiser.

Heavy rains pound Big Island as Cat 4 Lane barrels toward Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

Trump issues presidential disaster declaration as Lane marches toward Hawaii. Hawaii leaders are ramping up preparations for Hurricane Lane as the ferocious Category 4 storm continues to march toward the island chain. Hawaii News Now.

Islands remain vulnerable as category 4 Hurricane Lane continues to move northwest. KITV.

Hurricane Closes Hawaii’s Harbors, Freezing A Fragile Supply Chain. If Hurricane Lane strikes Oahu, officials say they have a plan in place to clear roads for emergency access as soon possible. Civil Beat.

Depending on hurricane track and scope of damage, Hawaiian Electric says customers should anticipate power outages from Hurricane Lane. KHON2.

Unplugged. That will likely become reality for many in Hawaii as Hurricane Lane triggers power outages, the Hawaiian Electric companies warned Wednesday as they urged customers to prepare. Star-Advertiser.

Power outage tips: Keep your refrigerator closed, unplug other appliances. Hawaii News Now.

FEMA workers arrive in Hawaii; airports remain open. About 150 FEMA workers are spread out across the state to help out with Hurricane Lane. Hawaii News Now.

Here’s a list of Hurricane Lane emergency shelters. Star-Advertiser.

Forecasting Hurricanes In The ‘Cone Of Uncertainty’ Is A Rough Challenge. Meteorologists get plenty of data to predict a storm’s path, but even minor fluctuations in models can mean a world of difference. Civil Beat.

Category strengths of a hurricane and wind shear ... How do they relate? Hawaii News Now.

Hurricane Lane impacts U.S. Postal Service operations, mail delivery. KHON2.

State investigating reports of price gouging as Hurricane Lane nears. KHON2.

Insurance commissioner authorizes assistance of unlicensed adjusters due to Hurricane Lane. Pacific Business News.

Real estate contributes to Hawaii's empty shelves as hurricane approaches. The empty supermarket shelves Hawaii residents are finding this week as they try to prepare for Hurricane Lane are a byproduct of the cost of shipping and industrial real estate in the Islands. Pacific Business News.

Storm likely to further curb September hotel performance. Star-Advertiser.

Ige Relaxes Rabies Rules for Hawaii-Bound Pets. Owners will be allowed to bring their dogs and cats to the islands 30 days after completing tests and vaccines, instead of 120 days. Civil Beat.

State's Plans To Deal With Abandoned and Derelict Cars. The problem of abandoned and derelict vehicle varies from island to island. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Mayor says slow-moving storm could cause major problems. Mayor Kirk Caldwell, flanked by first responders, urged Oahu residents to prepare for the coming of Hurricane Lane and to shelter in place. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Designates 20 Schools As Hurricane Shelters. The shelters — to be used as a last resort — have a total capacity of 55,000, according to city officials. Civil Beat.

Pearl Harbor ships and subs head to sea ahead of Lane. Navy ships and submarines based in Hawaii — excluding those undergoing maintenance — began an exodus from Pearl Harbor Wednesday as Hurricane Lane, still packing 145 mph winds, swirled ever closer to the state. Star-Advertiser.

Last-minute shopping a challenge. Don Quijote was one of the stores that had sold out of water, butane and flashlights, but were expecting an emergency shipment Wednesday night of additional pallets of water and butane. Star-Advertiser.

Visitors to Oahu brace for Hurricane Lane, tourism impacted. Gusts of wind blew through Daniel K. Inouye International Airport Wednesday as travelers braced for the unknown. KHON2.

Hundreds of residents on Hawaiian Homelands are without phone and internet service as Hurricane Lane threatens the state. KHON2.

Honolulu police officers, state officials and outreach workers canvassed various communities on Wednesday to warn Oahu’s homeless population about Hurricane Lane and urge them to seek shelter. Hawaii News Now.

Art Ushijima, president and CEO of The Queen’s Health Systems, said Wednesday he will retire in January 2020 after nearly 30 years on the job. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Bracing for Lane: County, state prepare as significant rain, flooding and high winds are expected from hurricane. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County Mayor Harry Kim stressed Wednesday that West Hawaii residents need to remain vigilant as Hurricane Lane remained on course to pass very close to the Hawaiian Islands. West Hawaii Today.

Storm-tested East Hawaii residents take Lane in stride. Despite the approach of Hurricane Lane, residents on the east side of the Big Island were largely unperturbed Wednesday. Tribune-Herald.

No panic in Kailua-Kona as residents prep for hurricane. West Hawaii Today.

Disaster-Weary Big Island Braces For Lane’s First Effects. South- and west-facing coastal areas are considered at greatest risk in Hawaii County. Civil Beat.

Hawaii County won’t even begin collecting its share of the general excise tax for more than four months, but there’s already disagreement over how to spend it. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa hosted a press conference on Wednesday afternoon ahead of Hurricane Lane as it continues its approach up the island chain. Maui Now.

Maui County officials are preparing for the worst that Hurricane Lane might bring — and are bracing for a long recovery. Hawaii News Now.

Maui County residents, tourists and businesses are preparing for Hurricane Lane and the possibility of stores running out of supplies due to the anticipated closure of all ports statewide when the storm hits. Maui News.

Maui visitors deal differently with approaching storm. Star-Advertiser.

Feels Like Hana Of Old After Hurricane Threat Chases Tourists Away. The iconic but usually congested Hana Highway is quiet as confident residents get ready to hunker down. Civil Beat.

C-SPAN bus visits Maui with Lane looming. Mobile TV studio parked at county building, mall. Maui News.

Kauai

In this together. Stores like Times, Costco, The Home Depot and Longs weren’t quite as busy Wednesday, but residents and visitors alike were stocking up on essentials before the possibility of Hurricane Lane wreaking havoc on Kauai. Garden Island.

Wainiha-Haena residents are being advised to evacuate the area today due to the possibility of tropical storm force winds and heavy rains. Garden Island.

Water diversion plan contested. A move to amend the Interim Inflow Stream Standard for the Waikoko and North Fork Wailua streams by State of Hawaii Commission on Water Resources Management Tuesday has been delayed due to a request for a contested-case hearing filed by Kauai Island Utility Cooperative. Garden Island.

Wednesday, August 22, 2018

Cat 4 Hurricane Lane bears down on Hawaii, state and counties governments closing, supplies running low at stores, what you need to know to be prepared, plus news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Central Pacific Hurricane Center
Hurricane Lane 5:30 a.m. Wednesday, Central Pacific Hurricane Center
Hurricane Lane weakened slightly overnight but continues its march toward the islands. Star-Advertiser.

Clocking in with maximum sustained winds of 155 mph, Hurricane Lane was located around 315 miles south of Kailua-Kona and 460 miles south-southeast from Honolulu and was headed west-northwest at 9 mph at 5 a.m., according to the Central Pacific Hurricane Center. Star-Advertiser.

More islands under watches, warnings as Lane bears down on state. Hurricane Lane has weakened slightly, but forecasters warn the massive Category 4 Central Pacific cyclone remains a threat to the entire island chain.  Hawaii News Now.

Here are all the active weather alerts associated with Hurricane Lane. Hawaii News Now.

Weather service details potential life-threatening impacts from Lane, and how to prepare. Star-Advertiser.

The governor has issued an emergency proclamation to speed up the state's response to potential impacts from Hurricane Lane. Hawaii News Now.

Gov. David Ige signed an emergency proclamation this afternoon in advance of the arrival of Hurricane Lane, the Category 4 storm approaching the state from the southeast. Star-Advertiser.

Governor Ige isn't taking any chances when it comes to preparing for Hurricane Lane. Ige said Tuesday that Hurricane Lane is behaving unlike any other hurricane he's seen before. KITV.

State emergency officials: Identify a safe room in your home now. Hawaii News Now.

Ahead of Lane, Young Brothers cancels sail of barges to most neighbor islands. Hawaii News Now.

As Hurricane Lane strengthened into a Category 5 hurricane Tuesday, the state’s visitor industry prepared to care for 270,000 tourists in the islands. Star-Advertiser.

Closures, cancellations due to threat of Hurricane Lane. Hawaii News Now.

All University of Hawaii campuses and all non-essential university operations on Hawaii island, Maui, Molokai and Lanai will be closed today until further notice due to the approach of Hurricane Lane. Star-Advertiser.

Maui County, Hawaii island courts closed for the rest of the week. KHON2.

Governor David Ige has granted administrative leave for non-essential state employees in Hawaii and Maui counties, as the state prepares for severe weather conditions resulting from Hurricane Lane. State offices on Hawaii Island and Maui will be closed from Wednesday, Aug. 22, 2018 through Friday, Aug. 24, 2018. Maui Now.

Red Cross looking for volunteers in light of approaching hurricane. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii doesn't have enough hurricane shelter space to meet the "estimated demand" of the population. Hawaii News Now.

Outreach workers across the Hawaiian Islands are going to homeless encampments near streambeds and along coastlines to inform homeless people about Hurricane Lane. Civil Beat.

The State Department of Transportation makes Statewide preparations. KITV.

Film Industry Fears Tax Credit Cap Will Drive Away Future Business. Last year was a big one for the film industry here in the island-- generating more than $300 million into the economy according to state’s own business figures. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaiian Airlines, which expected great promise from China and spent about a decade trying to get the green light to initiate service, has suspended its only route there after about four years due to low demand. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

City releases extensive ‘Hurricane and tropical storm preparedness’ guide. Star-Advertiser.

Tour boats to the USS Arizona Memorial have been suspended, and ships and planes at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam are expected to be moved from the harbor and airport ahead of Hurricane Lane. Star-Advertiser.

Hurricane preparedness just got real. Costco Hawaii Kai shoppers wiped out 21 pallets of water in 20 minutes just before 6 p.m. Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Shorthanded Honolulu Police Department Tries To Speed Up Hiring. The HPD streamlines its application process and revamps recruitment messages to get more people to consider a career in law enforcement. Civil Beat.

Hawaii-based Army soldier to plead guilty in terrorism case. Birney Bervar, one of Sgt. 1st Class Ikaika Kang’s attorneys, told the AP that Kang will plead guilty as charged in the indictment, which accuses him of providing material aid to terrorists. Associated Press.

Some changes, some resistance in hindsight report on Marco Polo fire. More than a year after the deadly Marco Polo blaze, KHON2 has obtained the fire department's internal review. KHON2.


Hawaii Island

Puna Councilwoman Jen Ruggles was twice asked to leave council committee meetings Tuesday, after she abruptly announced she would not be voting because of her concerns over Native Hawaiian sovereignty and whether her votes constitute war crimes. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County Councilwoman Jen Ruggles surprised her fellow councilmembers Tuesday, when she announced before a committee hearing that she “will be refraining from participating in the proposing and enacting of legislation” until county lawyers are able to assure her that she “is not incurring criminal liability under international humanitarian law and U.S. law.” Big Island Video News.

Four additional people have been charged in connection to assisting a man who evaded capture for three days after reportedly killing a Hawaii Police officer last month. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park could reopen parts of the park by September 22, which is also National Public Lands Day, “as long as the current pause in earthquakes and collapse-explosion events at the summit of Kilauea continues”, officials announced today. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park hopes to reopen by next month. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park has set a goal to reopen parts of the park by Sept. 22, about four months after it closed as a result of volcanic and seismic activity. Pacific Business News.

Maui

The Office of Council Services and Office of the County Clerk will remain open on Wednesday and the scheduled Land Use Committee meeting will start at 1:30 p.m. in the Council Chamber on the 8th Floor of the County Building as planned, Council Chair Mike White announced today. Maui Now.

Update 6:45 p.m.: Public schools, UH-MC close Wednesday; Haleakala National Park, county offices shut too. State trails, parks close Wednesday, Thursday. Maui News.

Maui County urges all residents to be prepared for Hurricane Lane as a Hurricane Watch travels closer to our islands. Maui Now.

Enrollment is down 285 students from last year as the fall semester began Monday at the University of Hawaii Maui College. Maui News.

Kauai

People rush to buy gasoline, supplies. It was overcast with a slight breeze as people lined the aisles at Home Depot, buying plywood, ducttape, flash lights, batteries and other necessities. Garden Island.

North Shore digs in for storm. As Hurricane Lane approaches, on the North Shore in Wainiha and Haena there’s more than just regular preparation necessary due its isolation. Garden Island.