Sunscreen is killing coral reefs, Jane Goodall addresses World Conservation Congress, Djou beats Caldwell in campaign money, Sam Choy battles to keep his brand, Kenoi attorneys block email release, Maui mulls charging for rescues, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Kona beach scene © 2016 All Hawaii News

State officials called for a united effort in battling the negative effect of oxybenzone, a common sunscreen ingredient, on coral reefs during an afternoon media briefing at the World Conservation Congress at the Hawai‘i Convention Center. Star-Advertiser.

Fearing cancer, many beachgoers slather their bodies with sunscreen in hopes of blocking the sun’s sometimes deadly rays. While the practice may be good for humans, it’s deadly for coral reefs. Civil Beat.

Jane Goodall sure knows how to draw a crowd. On Saturday, the famed primatologist packed hundreds in of adoring fans into a large ballroom at the Hawaii Convention Center in Honolulu for the International Union for Conservation of Nature World Conservation Congress, the largest environmental symposium in the world. Civil Beat.

Hawaii received grim news Sunday when the International Union for Conservation of Nature declared that 38 plant species found only on our islands had gone extinct and that hundreds more were on the brink. Civil Beat.

On Sunday at an all-star panel at the World Conservation Congress in Honolulu, Kathryn Sullivan, the first American woman to walk in space, described the Earth’s atmosphere as a “thin veneer” and an “ocean of air” that looks as slim as the peel of a tangerine. Civil Beat.

Former Harvard biology professor E.O. Wilson is one of the world’s most respected and revered conservationists alive today. So you might find it curious that his biggest fear isn’t climate change or the ongoing mass extinction that decimates an estimated 150-200 species every day. Nope. It’s Donald Trump. Civil Beat.

Hawaii-based marine biologists Randall Kosaki, Richard Pyle and Brian Greene plan to name a colorful, newly discovered fish species after President Barack Obama. Civil Beat.

About two dozen protesters assembled peacefully outside the Hawaii Convention Center Saturday with a message to those meeting inside: The U.S. military is destroying the planet. Civil Beat.

The World Conservation Congress in Honolulu is making a concerted effort at being green and could set a new standard for the tourism industry here. The International Union for Conservation of Nature event underway now through Saturday is taking ambitious measures to reduce paper, eliminate plastic, avoid food waste, decrease energy use, ramp up recycling and take other sustainability measures that are likely to set a new standard for Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s hepatitis A outbreak, which has sickened 241 people so far, is the worst in the country since 2003 and a sharp reversal from the downward trajectory of the disease in recent decades. Star-Advertiser.

Under Hawaii’s civil asset forfeiture program, law enforcement agencies can seize property suspected of being connected with criminal activity, even if they don’t obtain a conviction or file a criminal charge. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

While Mayor Kirk Caldwell received more votes in last month's primary, Charles Djou raked in more money. Filings with the state Campaign Spending Commission show Caldwell's campaign received $57,000 in contributions in the two weeks before the Aug. 13th election.  In that same period, Djou's campaign received nearly three-times as much: $167,000. Hawaii News Now.

More than a year after three controversial measures tied to the last undeveloped phase of Haseko’s 1,100-acre Ewa Beach development were introduced, the City Council is still trying to reach a resolution on certain issues. Star-Advertiser.

The U.S. Department of Transportation on Friday finalized its decision to award Hawaiian Airlines a daytime slot to fly from Honolulu International Airport to Haneda Airport in Tokyo, according to U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono. Pacific Business News.

A Hawaii union says it has filed a complaint with the Environmental Protection Agency over reports of unsafe working conditions after discovering mold at a Waikiki hotel that’s under construction. Associated Press.

Hawaii

County attorneys are seeking to keep the contents of 40 emails, most of them sent in the month after Big Island newspapers reported Mayor Billy Kenoi’s misuse of his county-issued credit card, secret. Tribune-Herald.

Roughly 40 scientists, researchers and business people will convene at Kilauea Military Camp at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Tuesday and Wednesday to discuss the feasibility of the implementation of one or several groundbreaking technologies to curb the mosquito population across the state — if not eradicate it. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County is seeking a state Department of Health permit for a full-scale composting facility — the first in Hawaii — before breaking ground next year. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Supreme Court Chief Justice Mark Recktenwald issued a memo to chief judges statewide after ads appeared on the Big Island depicting state Judiciary personnel endorsing a candidate for county prosecutor. West Hawaii Today.

In addition to picking from an assortment of local, state and national candidates on the Nov. 8 ballot, Big Island voters will help decide three ballot questions — two to amend the state constitution and one to amend the Hawaii County charter. West Hawaii Today.

Local chef Sam Choy is disputing an Oahu restaurant’s right to use his name “royalty-free” despite the chef having no connection to the restaurant. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The Maui Demolition & Construction Landfill that has been operating on 15 acres at the corner of North Kihei Road and Honoapiilani Highway for the last 20 years stopped accepting construction debris Wednesday, a landfill official confirmed Friday. Maui News.

Nearly half of the 250 people surveyed by the Maui County Fire Department supported the idea of billing people who require helicopter and mountain rescues by firefighters. Maui News.

The Maui County Council approved a resolution Friday for the county to acquire more than 250 acres near the world famous "Jaws" surf break in East Maui for nearly $9.5 million. Maui News.

The final touches are currently being applied to the nonprofit Maui Ocean Center Marine Institute, which will work on developing rehabilitation facilities for endangered turtles, expanding an existing coral bank at the aquarium and providing marine sciences educational opportunities. Maui News.

Brown Water Advisories have been issued for Baldwin Beach Park and Honokahua Bay on Maui due to recent rains. Maui Now.

Kauai

New technology that could help out Kauai’s endangered forest birds is on the horizon, but questions remain. Garden Island.

Kauai residents are invited to comment on a bill that would allow alcohol sales on the Wailua Golf Course. The Kauai County Council will host a public hearing on Bill No. 2635 at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, which made it legal for alcohol to be consumed on the course. Garden Island.

Kauai Humane Society is reeling after an Alaska Airlines decision to end its pet transfer program was announced Friday. Garden Island.

Hawaii Election recap: Low turnout, incumbent advantage, political commentary and more top government and political news from all the Hawaiian Islands

U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz hears from Emily Naeole © 2016 All Hawaii News

Hawaii set a record low for voter apathy in a primary election on Saturday, when only 34.7 percent of registered voters bothered to cast ballots. In all, 251,959 people voted. Star-Advertiser.

The voter turnout for Hawaii’s primary election of 34.7 percent was the lowest since statehood in 1959, prompting U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz to suggest that a Saturday in August “might not be the best time to hold a primary.” Civil Beat.

From opponents to teammates, Hawaii's Democratic candidates gathered at the Dole Cannery Sunday for the party's traditional Unity breakfast, less than 24 hours after Saturday's primary election. Hawaii News Now.

A day after going up against each other, Democratic candidates in Hawaii are coming together for their next challenge: the General Election. Sunday morning displayed unity among many of Hawaii’s democrats who just got through the Primary Election. KITV.

Time to shake off the post-primary fog, savor the triumphs, lick the wounds and buckle down for the big one. At the Democratic Unity Breakfast Sunday, there was no mistaking the agenda for November. KHON2.

The Democrat who spoke most passionately at the Democratic Party of Hawaii’s Unity Breakfast Sunday was a candidate who is not actually running as a Democrat this year. Civil Beat.

Though they didn’t have any major contested races, the Hawaii Republican Party says it’s happy with the outcome of the primary election. KHON2.

© 2016 All Hawaii News

The Hawaii Legislature will remain controlled by Democrats after a primary election where many Democratic incumbents ran unopposed. There were 16 uncontested races in the elections for the state Senate and House, and all but one of the unopposed candidates were Democrats. Associated Press.

Incumbent U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz won his Democratic primary race Saturday, defeating four challengers in his bid for his first full term in office. Associated Press.

Former U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa won the Democratic primary in Hawaii on Saturday and could return to her old U.S. House seat. Associated Press.

The 2014 storm of political controversy — and weather — wasn’t there this time for Colleen Hanabusa and Brian Schatz in Saturday’s Democratic congressional primary, with both nailing lopsided victories in U.S. House and Senate races. Star-Advertiser.

Legislative incumbents find little resistance at polls. Star-Advertiser.

The Projector: Night Of Drama After Day Of Voter Apathy. Polling places were often empty Saturday, but when the returns started rolling in, the excitement picked up. Civil Beat.

Primary Election Results. Star-Advertiser.

Two OHA Seats Will Head To A Nov. 8 Runoff. Colette Machado has won her Molokai seat but the at-large seat and Hawaii Island seat will be on the general election ballot. Civil Beat.

Commentary: Roundup of insightful quotes helps discern bull of politics. Star-Advertiser.

Commentary: If there are any lessons to be taken from Saturday’s primary election, they are small and incremental. Civil Beat.

Oahu
The final battle for Honolulu Hale will play out in a general election clash on Nov. 8 between Mayor Kirk Caldwell and former U.S. Rep. and City Councilman Charles Djou. Caldwell narrowly finished first in Saturday’s primary election, with 44.6 percent of the 166,002 votes cast. Djou threatened to pull the mayor into a dead heat but by the end of the night trailed with 43.7 percent of the votes and a close second-place finish. Star-Advertiser.

Just 1,500 votes -- and one major issue -- separated Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell and former Congressman Charles Djou in Saturday's mayoral primary won by Caldwell. But a precinct-by-precinct analysis suggests it's an even tighter race for the two, who will face off each other again in a runoff election in November. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Councilwoman Kymberly Pine won’t have to face a challenger in November — she won re-election outright in Saturday’s primary race with a commanding 65 percent of the vote. Star-Advertiser.

An unscientific peek into how Oahu’s electorate voted in the Honolulu mayor’s race shows Mayor Kirk Caldwell and former U.S. Rep. Charles Djou each faring well in some regions while in need of work in other communities as they head for their Nov. 8 showdown. Star-Advertiser.

© 2016 All Hawaii News

Hawaii

Harry Kim defied the oddsmakers and the fundraisers Saturday, trouncing Wally Lau and 11 other candidates in his path to reclaim the county’s top post. West Hawaii Today.

Mitch Roth won a second term as county prosecutor Saturday. With 42 of 43 precincts reporting islandwide, the 52-year-old Roth held an insurmountable lead over Deputy Attorney General Mike Kagami, 22,281 votes to 10,128, 68.7 percent to 31.3 percent. Tribune-Herald.

State Sen. Kai Kahele is all but guaranteed to finish the term his father started after defeating his two challengers in the Democratic primary Saturday. Tribune-Herald.

State Senator Russell Ruderman will keep his district 2 senate seat after holding off his Democratic challenger, Puna councilmember Greggor Ilagan, in the primary election. Big Island Video News.

Seven-term incumbent Cindy Evans won the Democratic primary for the District 7 seat in the House of Representatives by a narrow margin over opponent David Tarnas in one of the closest races across the entire state. West Hawaii Today.

The non-partisan race to fill the two vacated seats – district 4 (Puna) and district 3 (Hilo) – will go on to a run-off election in November, since no candidate in either race managed to get over half the vote. Incumbents also appear to have been defeated in two other tight council races – district 5 (Puna) and district 9 (Kohala) – where Danny Paleka and Margaret Wille fall short in their bids for re-election. Big Island Video News.

Jennifer Ruggles unseated Hawaii County Councilman Daniel Paleka in the District 5 race. With all precincts reporting, the 27-year-old Fern Acres resident won 1,794 votes, or 54 percent. Tribune-Herald.

Every vote counts, especially if it’s cast in the Hawaii County Council District 3 race. The race will continue as a runoff in November after Saturday’s election narrowed the field of three to two: Sue Lee Loy and Moana Kelii, both of Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

Two West Hawaii County Council candidates are powering their campaigns with small donations, while East Hawaii incumbents are relying more on larger contributions. West Hawaii Today.


Maui

Election night 2016 was characterized by low turnout, little energy, no magic, and only a few surprises. The night’s most unexpected finish was in the race for the vacant Wailuku County Council seat where former council member Dane Kane, finished first with 6,443 votes, while first time candidate Alika Atay came in second with 6,354. Trailing the leaders was the presumed favorite Keith Regan, the county’s managing director, with 6,017, followed by Joe Blackburn 4,439 and Hana Steel 1,424. Kane and Atay, the top two vote getters in the county wide non-partisan race will face each other in the November. Maui Watch.

It was an emotional Saturday evening for Kaniela Ing as he embraced friends and family after a triumphant victory over challenger Deidre Tegarden for the Democratic nomination to the South Maui state House seat. Maui News.

In the race for the Wailuku-Waihee-Waikapu residency seat, voters on Molokai and Lanai proved to be one of the deciding factors for winner Dain Kane, pushing him through to the general election Saturday night in the tightest County Council primary contest this year. Maui News.

In a tight race with no candidate taking a majority of the votes Saturday, former Maui County Council Member Dain Kane and "aloha aina" advocate Alika Atay prevailed in the primary contest for the Wailuku-Waihee-Waikapu residency seat. Maui News.

Yuki Lei Sugimura held on to an early lead for the Maui County Council Upcountry residency seat, and Napua Greig-Nakasone secured the second spot Saturday night as they advanced from a four-candidate field to the Nov. 8 general race. Maui News.

All of the precincts in Maui County were accounted for in the Third and Fourth election printout from the State Office of Elections on Saturday, Aug. 13, 2016. The Fourth printout, produced at 11:47 p.m. was considered the Final Summary Report for Maui County races, where all precincts are accounted for. Maui Now.

A four-way race for the South Maui residency seat on the Maui County Council turned into a two-way contest Saturday night, with incumbent Council Member Don Couch and challenger Kelly King getting the most votes and advancing to the Nov. 8 general election. Maui News.

Upcountry Rep. Kyle Yamashita was able to fend off a challenge from political newcomer Tiare Lawrence Saturday night, taking a winner-take-all contest to return to 12th District House of Representatives seat he has held since 2004. Maui News.

Elections for federal and state legislative offices were primary elections with parties choosing their candidates for the Nov. 8 general election. Maui News.

Kauai

Hawaii State Sen. Ron Kouchi garnered more than half of the votes in the primary election. Garden Island.

District 15 incumbent James “Jimmy” Tokioka will return to the state House after winning the seat convincingly, beating his opponent and first-time political candidate Thomas Oi of Lihue. Garden Island.

With 12 of 16 precincts reported, Derek Kawakami led the race for Kauai County Council. Garden Island.

Cheers rang through Brick Oven Pizza in Wailua Saturday night when Nadine Nakamura and her supporters received the first printout of election results from the 2016 primary election. Garden Island.

The race for the Kauai prosecutor’s office hit a milestone Saturday when the incumbent took a significant lead against his challenger. Garden Island.

Takai to lie in state, special HI01 election set, poll shows Djou leading Honolulu mayoral race, Gabbard backs Clinton, flight attendant has Hepatitis A, Kona hospital ranked lowest in state, audit blasts Parks and Rec Department, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Mark Takai

Gov. David Ige and the state Office of Elections issued an official proclamation Tuesday authorizing a special election, in conjunction with the Nov. 8 general election, to decide who will serve out the last two months of the unfinished term of the late U.S. Rep. Mark Takai. Star-Advertiser.

The state Office of Elections said Tuesday that it will conduct a special election Nov. 8 to fill a vacancy in the 1st Congressional District. Civil Beat.

Services for the late U.S. Rep. Mark Takai, who died July 20, have been set for Aug. 18 and 19. Takai died in Honolulu, nine months after he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. He was 49. Star-Advertiser.

The family of the late Mark Takai on Tuesday announced two ceremonies for the congressman to honor “the beloved servant leader.” Civil Beat.

U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard says she will vote for Hillary Clinton for president in November, but was tempered in her support as she reiterated her concerns with the former secretary of state’s Middle East policies. Star-Advertiser.

The state Department of Health this afternoon confirmed two new food service-related hepatitis A cases on Oahu: an employee at Chili’s restaurant in Kapolei and a Hawaiian Airlines flight attendant. Star-Advertiser.

A Hawaiian Airlines flight attendant was among the people in Hawaii infected with Hepatitis A. The state Department of Health says the attendant was on 33 flights from Honolulu to California, Nevada and neighbor islands in July. Associated Press.

Higher demand for shipping goods to Hawaii helped Matson Inc. almost double its profit in the second quarter, but the gain mostly reflected abnormally low earnings a year earlier. Star-Advertiser.

In an apparent violation of Arizona regulations, the Corrections Corporation of America, the largest for-profit prison company in the country, is failing to report the cases of valley fever among Hawaii inmates at the Saguaro Correctional Center. Civil Beat.

Gov. David Ige is defending his decision to delay several highway projects aimed at increasing capacity and reducing traffic congestion, saying the state needs to focus more on maintaining the roads. Associated Press.

Oahu

Charles Djou leads incumbent Kirk Caldwell 42 percent to 33 percent in the race for Honolulu mayor in a new Civil Beat Poll, suggesting that neither candidate will garner a majority of the votes in the Aug. 13 primary necessary to win the contest outright.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell touted his “compassionate disruption” and Housing First strategies for tackling chronic homelessness while major opponents Charles Djou and Peter Car­lisle declared them failures during a forum sponsored by Hawaii News Now and the Honolulu Star-Advertiser on Tuesday night.

In the last televised debate before the primary election, Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell on Tuesday night sought to defend his record at Honolulu Hale, while his two major challengers criticized it, taking him to task for his handling of the beleaguered rail project and the homeless crisis. Hawaii News Now.

Caldwell’s Inaction On Police Reform Draws Political Attacks. Charles Djou and Peter Carlisle say the mayor should ask the police chief to step aside during a federal corruption investigation. Civil Beat.

In the wealthy district surrounding the University of Hawaii’s flagship campus, incumbent state Rep. Isaac Choy is facing a Democratic primary challenge from a well-financed political newcomer with a familiar name. Civil Beat.

The National Park Service blames the improper demolition of a historic building at Pearl Harbor on a lack of understanding and training. Associated Press.

Hawaii

The federal government released Medicare hospital ratings last week, and one Hawaii Island facility was found wanting.  Kona Community Hospital received a below-average rating of two stars, the lowest mark of any Big Island facility evaluated. West Hawaii Today.

Several County Council members quizzed the legislative auditor and administration officials Tuesday, seeking assurances the county isn’t leaking cash when people rent facilities. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaiian Electric Co.’s Big Island subsidiary is looking to spend $6.2 million on an upgrade of its nearly 100-year-old hydroelectric plant. Pacific Business News.

Big Island residents have several opportunities this month to suggest ways to improve Hawaii’s education system. Tribune-Herald.

The new owners of Downtown Hilo’s historic Kaikodo Building see little in need of changing. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Reductions in health care services and layoffs could be in store for the three Maui County public hospitals as their board of directors meets Wednesday, with the transfer of operations to the private Kaiser Permanente Maui Health System in an indefinite limbo that is going on three months. Maui News.

Here are the Maui County candidates who’ve filed for public funds. MauiTime.

It is a crowded field, with five candidates vying for the Wailuku, Waihee and Waikapu residency seat on the Maui County Council, which is being vacated by Mike Victorino because of term limits. Maui News.

On the 100th anniversary of Haleakala National Park, the weather could have hardly been better: Perfectly clear, bright blue, sunny skies. Maui News.

Kauai

Hawaii Senate President Ron Kouchi threw his weight behind the expansion of the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument at a public meeting Tuesday night at the Kauai Community College’s Performing Arts Center. Garden Island.

A partial motion to dismiss claims in a case against a Kauai medical marijuana dispensary licensee and Green Aloha Ltd. was granted in the Fifth Circuit Court last week. Garden Island.

A nonprofit organization denied a Kauai County office’s application request to use money raised in a charity walk, officials from Hawaii Lodging and Tourism Authority told The Garden Island.

Honolulu mayoral candidates spar over ethics, Hawaii inmates to stay in Arizona, state trails in housing homeless vets, Maui hospital deal falters, Kauai may appeal to regain mayor's power over police, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Road construction © 2016 All Hawaii News

Gov. David Ige’s decision to defer indefinitely almost all major new projects to increase highway capacity and reduce traffic congestion on state roadways is a major policy shift, but Ige says he had little choice. Star-Advertiser.

On Monday, the Obama administration released new numbers that show from January 2015 to January 2016 the total number of homeless veterans in America fell by 17 percent. But in Hawaii the drop was only 3 percent. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii will continue housing hundreds of inmates on the mainland — at an estimated cost of nearly $45 million a year. The Hawaii Department of Public Safety awarded a new, three-year contract last week to Nashville, Tennessee-based Corrections Corporation of America, the largest for-profit prison company in the country, to house up to 1,926 Hawaii prisoners in Arizona. Civil Beat.

The state Department of Education has yet to fill hundreds of teaching positions across the state as school has started for more than 180,000 students. Associated Press.

Two years from now, Hawaii residents may see labels on some food products at the grocery store indicating that they contain genetically modified ingredients. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Electric Co. President Alan Oshima says his company is clear on what it is supposed to do; now HECO just has to do it. In a series of discussions about the past, present and future of Hawaiian Electric, Oshima comes across as an agent of change as he talks up the company’s devotion to renewable energy. Civil Beat.

First Hawaiian Bank is expected to begin trading on the Nasdaq Stock Exchange by the end of this week in an initial public offering that is expected to raise as much as $558 million. Pacific Business News.

A push to survey the seafloor for undersea mining has revealed an abundance of life on the seafloor in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ) — an area the size of the US mainland in the equatorial Pacific Ocean being targeted for deep-sea mining. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Former U.S. Rep. Charles Djou and former Mayor Peter Carlisle ganged up on Mayor Kirk Caldwell at a live mayoral candidate forum Monday night, accusing him of engineering the resignation of longtime Ethics Commission Executive Director Chuck Totto. Star-Advertiser.

There were a couple of offensive strikes from two leading candidates for Honolulu mayor Monday. Civil Beat.

As early primary election voting got underway Monday throughout the state, it was a slow first day at Honolulu Hale with just a few hundred residents casting ballots. Star-Advertiser.

A public meeting at the Filipino Community Center in Waipahu Monday night drew more than 300 people. The topic was whether to expand the current boundaries of the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument. KHON2.

A U.S. Bankruptcy Court judge ruled Monday to dismiss Honey Bee’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy case. The company had been desperately seeking new investors to revive its $24 million plan called Waikiki Landing. Star-Advertiser.

The cost of renting an apartment in Honolulu declined in July, according to the apartment rental website Zumper, which analyzes data from more than 1 million active listings. The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment during the month was $1,790, down 2.7 percent from June, and for a two-bedroom unit was $2,520, down 3.1 percent. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

A property owner has agreed to tear down an illegal seawall built on the shore of Hilo’s Lalakea Pond. Tribune-Herald.

Meet the challengers. More needs to be done, they say, about ethics. About the cost of government. About listening to the public. All four West Hawaii County Council races will be decided in the Aug. 13 primary, as each incumbent faces a single challenger. West Hawaii Today.

The opening of the new Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) station at the Hilo International Airport was celebrated today. Big Island Video News.

Maui

The historic privatization of three Maui County hospitals is in jeopardy, following another setback Friday when the state was unable to reach a settlement over benefits for unionized workers. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Association of Public Accountants has endorsed Deidre Tegarden, who is running for the South Maui residency state House seat. Maui News.

Maui Research & Technology Park is close to updating its master plan, which will allow for housing aimed at park workers, new business opportunities, a site for Kihei Charter School and upgrades at Maui Brewing Co., officials said last month. Maui News.

Kauai

The Office of the County Attorney is requesting $45,000 to take the mayor and police chief feud to Hawaii’s highest court. The request comes after an Intermediate Court of Appeals decision in June, which said the mayor could not suspend and or discipline the chief of police and that the authority lies with the police commission. Garden Island.

Ron Kouchi, seeking re-election to the state Senate, said the Kauai legislative team made impacts in several areas, and if re-elected, he will continue to push and advocate for residents. Garden Island.

Kanoe Ahuna says that more and more people are coming to Kauai, and if elected Hawaii state senator for District 8 serving Kauai and Ni‘ihau, her goal is to ensure that residents and travelers alike continue to enjoy the Garden Isle. Garden Island.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has ordered the state Health Department to post signs at Gillin’s Beach on Kauai to alert the public of high bacteria levels. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii solar panels nearing grid capacity, lobbying law finally comes to Kauai, Department of Education rebuffs lawmaker, tourism up, 3 Honolulu mayoral candidates debate, rail chief under review, Maui rep apologizes for arrest, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Solar panels in Hilo © 2016 All Hawaii News

Oahu and the Big Island are closing in on the total capacity the state allows for residential solar systems that can export excess power to the grid and receive credit. Oahu is at 70 percent of its total limit, and the Big Island is at 70.6 percent, according to Hawaiian Electric Co. numbers released last week. solar applicants on Maui hit the limit in June. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s visitor industry achieved its best midyear performance ever, putting it on pace to achieve its fifth consecutive record-setting year. Star-Advertiser.

A state lawmaker concerned about hot classrooms in his district was rebuffed when he tried to attend a meeting Thursday morning with school officials and contractors involved with an expedited $100 million air-conditioning project. Civil Beat.

The applications for three startup charter schools will be recommended to the state Public Charter School Commission for approval, while three others got a thumbs-down Thursday from the agency’s Applications Committee. Star-Advertiser.

Federal researchers returning from a 30-day expedition to study whales and dolphins around the Hawaiian Islands said Thursday they are looking for clues to help sustain healthy populations of the marine mammals. Associated Press.

Oahu

At the KITV and Civil Beat mayoral debate Thursday night, candidates were asked about Honolulu Police Department mismanagement, homelessness, neighborhood boards — and, of course, rail.

With just over two weeks remaining before the Aug. 13 primary election, the three major mayoral candidates attacked one another’s positions on rail transit and personal backgrounds in their first televised debate. Star-Advertiser.

KITV Island News and Civil Beat hosted a debate with the top candidates running for mayor of the City & County of Honolulu.   Incumbent mayor Kirk Caldwell, former mayor Peter Carlisle and former Congressman Charles Djou participated in the debate.

Honolulu’s policy of moving homeless people out of sight of tourists isn’t likely to change anytime soon, because it’s supported by all three of the best-known candidates for mayor. Civil Beat.

The board overseeing Honolulu’s rail project will hold a special meeting early next month to continue its behind-closed-doors assessment of the executive director’s job performance. Star-Advertiser.

Congressman K. Mark Takai passed away last week with nearly 6 months left in his term. Takai’s chosen successor is now gearing up her campaign to regain her seat. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Navy said it is working on placement of a new $500,000 groundwater monitoring well near the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Facility to check water quality and evaluate how groundwater moves in the vicinity. Star-Advertiser.

Four days after Tropical Storm Darby dumped about a foot of rain on Oahu, some businesses in Kalihi are still suffering from the storm’s impacts. Hawaii News Now.

The muddy, garbage-infused muddle of junk left behind by Tropical Storm Darby in the waters and along the shoreline of Keehi Lagoon is threatening the state sport of outrigger canoe paddling’s largest annual event. Star-Advertiser.

Costco has confirmed a worker at its Hawaii Kai store tested positive for hepatitis A. The employee worked in the store’s bakery department and, according to a Costco spokesman, may have inappropriately handled food products. KHON2.

Hawaii

There’s a dustup in the local Democratic Party over an official’s endorsement of a candidate in a nonpartisan County Council race. West Hawaii Today.

The Big Island race to represent the poorest Senate district in the state pits a lifelong environmentalist and successful businessman against the youngest person to ever be elected to the Hawaii County Council. Civil Beat.

Having made a series of broad sketches over the past months, the Banyan Drive Hawaii Redevelopment Agency and the Hawaii County Planning Department are beginning to tweak details for the ambitious long-term project that will renovate one of Hilo’s most recognizable areas. Tribune-Herald.

Political hopefuls went on the record Wednesday night in regard to one of Hawaii’s most divisive issues. 8 of the 11 Hawaii County mayoral candidates present for a forum held at Aunty Sally’s Luau Hale in Hilo declared their support for the Thirty Meter Telescope project planned for Mauna Kea. Big Island Video News.

The Department of Land and Natural Resources, the American Bird Conservancy and the Mauna Kea Forest Restoration Project have created the Palila Forest Discovery Trail — a one-mile, interpretative loop trail located in the game management area of Kaohe, which falls within the boundaries of the Mauna Kea Forest Reserve. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Representative Kaniela Ing of Maui was apologetic for missing a court date and being served a subsequent bench warrant for failure to appear in court for a vehicle insurance violation. Maui Now.

Last night, state Representative Kaniela Ing, D–South Maui, released a statement on his July 26 arrest on a $250 traffic infraction bench warrant issued back in February of this year. MauiTime.

State Rep. Kaniela Ing was arrested by Maui police Tuesday on a warrant for failing to appear in court for a vehicle insurance violation that the South Maui representative described as "a human mistake." Maui News.

The closure of Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Co. is costing parent company Alexander & Baldwin less than expected, and the company now expects the cessation of operations to be "a cash positive event" for the full year, A&B said in its second quarter report released Wednesday. Maui News.

Kauai

Lobbyists have to register with the Office of the County Clerk, effective Thursday, thanks to Ordinance 999, passed by the County Council in March. Garden Island.

For more than a decade, county leaders have been working toward a treatment and healing center for Kauai’s youth. On Thursday night, about 50 people gathered at the Lihue Civic Center for the unveiling of the draft environmental assessment of the proposed center. Garden Island.

A measure that would allow vending on county-owned streets was deferred Wednesday to an Oct. 12 Kauai County Council committee meeting. Garden Island.

NextEra Energy quits $4.3B Hawaii electric plan after PUC rebuff, Djou ahead of Caldwell in Honolulu mayoral poll but Caldwell leads in fundraising, Maui audits pCard use, Kenoi's right-hand man Lau has huge money advantage on Big Island, Kauai worries about sacred spots in Pokemon game, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Public Utilities Ciommission Chairman Randy Iwase, Lorraine Akiba and Tom Gorak

NextEra Energy Inc. has ended its plan to buy Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc. and will pay the state’s largest utility $95 million in “break-up” fees and other costs, the two companies announced early today. Star-Advertiser.

NextEra Energy Inc. and Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc. have decided not to try to put their merger deal back together again. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc. and NextEra Energy Inc. have ended their plans to merge following the state’s decision Friday to reject the deal. KHON2.

Now that the state has denied Florida-based NextEra Energy Inc.’s $4.3-billion bid to buy Hawaii’s largest electric utility, some see another black-eye to the state’s business reputation while others see opportunity. Star-Advertiser.

The state Public Utilities Commission has rejected the $4.3 billion proposal to sell Hawaiian Electric Industries to Florida-based NextEra Energy. Civil Beat.

Hawaii regulators on Friday shot down one of the biggest business deals in state history, which involved Florida-based NextEra Energy Inc.'s proposed $4.3 billion acquisition of Hawaiian Electric Co. Pacific Business News.

The Public Utilities Commission rejected the purchase of Hawaiian Electric Company by Florida-based NextEra Energy on Friday. Hawaii Public Radio

The state Public Utilities Commission voted to not approve a merger between Florida-based NextEra and Hawaii’s largest utility, saying the companies didn’t show they would provide adequate benefits to ratepayers or help the state meet its aggressive renewable energy goals. Associated Press.

The $4.3 billion deal for control of Hawaii’s power company has been rejected by state regulators. Big Island Video News.

Hermina Morita, former chair of the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission and an ex-state representative, filed a lawsuit on Friday against Thomas Gorak, who was appointed by Gov. David Ige to the PUC to replace Commissioner Michael Champley when his term ended June 30. Pacific Business News.

Press release: In a 2-0 decision, the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission (“PUC” or “Commission”) today dismissed without prejudice the Hawaiian Electric Companies (“HECO Companies”) and NextEra Energy’s (“NextEra”) (collectively, the HECO Companies and NextEra are referred to as the “Applicants”) Joint Application for the Change of Control (“Application” or “Change of Control”). Commissioner Thomas C. Gorak abstained from signing the Decision and Order.

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The controversial Pono Choices sex education program taught in some Hawaii middle schools has helped increase students’ knowledge of preventing teen pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections, as designed, but students were not significantly deterred from engaging in risky sexual behaviors, an external review of the program released Friday concluded. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s delegates to the Republican National Convention have gathered in Cleveland this week to help adopt a sharply conservative new party platform and to join what they expect will be a grand celebration of the presidential nomination of Donald Trump. Star-Advertiser.

Tulsi Gabbard raised more than $420,000 in the April-June period. According to her July quarterly filing with the Federal Election Commission, the Hawaii Democrat is sitting on $1.88 million in cash. Civil Beat.

University of Hawaii President David Lassner’s salary ranks in the bottom two-thirds of salaries paid to the nation’s public college presidents, according to a report released today by the Chronicle of High Education. Lassner’s $375,000 base salary is No. 152 out of 260 leaders of public colleges and university systems. Star-Advertiser.

How many missiles, bombs and torpedoes does it take to sink a U.S. frigate? More than 10, a Rim of the Pacific exercise showed. Star-Advertiser.

What Happened When HECO Went To Wall Street. Energized by statehood and a booming economy, Hawaiian Electric began to reach beyond Oahu for investors and investments. Civil Beat.

Oahu

The latest Hawaii Poll shows former U.S. Rep. Charles Djou ahead in the race for Honolulu mayor, garnering more support among likely voters than incumbent Mayor Kirk Caldwell and former Mayor Peter Carlisle. Djou was the choice for 39 percent of poll participants — ahead of Caldwell at 30 percent, and Carlisle at 15 percent. Star-Advertiser.

If money were the only factor in an election, Mayor Kirk Caldwell would be re-elected in a landslide. The Honolulu mayor received $425,200 in campaign contributions in the first half of this year, far more than the next-highest amount for any state or city candidate. Charles Djou, who is also running for Honolulu mayor, came in second with $233,535. Civil Beat.

A solid majority of Oahu voters maintain the island’s rail transit project still should be built to Ala Moana Center as planned, the latest Hawaii Poll found. Star-Advertiser.

Most Oahu residents want the see the entire 20-mile rail system built all the way to Ala Moana Center. But even more people oppose raising property taxes to pay for the construction.  Hawaii News Now.

People on Oahu generally feel that the island’s homeless situation has gotten better in the year since the beating of a state representative in the heart of an entrenched encampment in Kakaako, and far fewer believe the problem’s gotten worse, results of the latest Hawaii Poll show. Star-Advertiser.

Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton retains a solid lead among Oahu voters as Republicans and Democrats prepare for their national conventions, with 49 percent of likely voters here saying they would vote for Clinton if the election for president were held today. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu police are hoping to begin a body camera pilot program by the end of this year. Star-Advertiser.

They live on the wrong side of Honolulu’s traffic jams and like everyone on the island they think housing costs too much, but it’s hard to find Mililani residents who are dissatisfied with their community. Civil Beat.

Thurston Twigg-Smith, a scion of missionary descendants who helped make the once-weaker Honolulu Advertiser Hawaii’s dominant newspaper, died Saturday at the age of 94. Star-Advertiser.

Road repaving projects to begin in Iwilei, Kalihi, Kapalama, Liliha, Punchbowl and Pu‘unui. KITV.

Hawaii
If elections were won by money alone, mayoral candidate Wally Lau would be a shoo-in for the top Hawaii County post. Lau, Mayor Billy Kenoi’s former right-hand man, accumulated $183,705 in campaign contributions in the first six months of the year, eclipsing the rest of the 13-member field seeking the open seat.  West Hawaii Today.

Lawmakers are expecting a gas tax hike to be on the table again next year following the deferral of major highway improvements, including further widening of Highway 130 in Puna. Tribune-Herald.

Little Fire Ants, first discovered on Hawaii Island in 1999, likely arrived as hidden passengers in imported nursery plants. And there’s little sign they’re letting up in West Hawaii. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The Maui County auditor will be reviewing county employee travel expenses after an investigation into government purchasing cards, known as pCards, revealed about $850,000 in travel spending from September 2014 to October 2015. Maui News.

Maui County Council hopefuls Yuki Lei Sugimura and Keith Regan, candidate newcomers, took in $54,000 and $42,000 respectively from January to June - the highest total of campaign donations received during the reporting period among all council candidates, according to campaign spending reports. Maui News.

Lawmakers are tentatively planning to close out their special veto override session Monday without taking any further action on a proposal for special severance payments and retirement benefits for the Maui hospital workers who will lose their state jobs when Gov. David Ige’s administration privatizes three hospitals in Maui County. Star-Advertiser.

The median price of a single-family home in Maui County for the first half of 2016 was $630,000 - with mostly local residents buying properties below that price and off-islanders snarfing up listings above that amount, the president of the Realtors Association of Maui said last week. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai Mayor Bernard Carvalho has nominated Syngenta spokeswoman Beth Tokioka to the county’s Board of Water Supply despite concerns about the seed company’s record on water quality. Civil Beat.

The deadline for commenting on the latest paperwork from Hawaii Dairy Farms and their plan to establish a 699-cow dairy in the Mahaulepu Valley is a little more than a week away. Garden Island.

The fate of an amendment to a bill that would prohibit smoking in cars with minors could be settled Wednesday. When the Kauai County Council meets, it is expected to make a decision on amending Bill No. 2629, which would make it illegal for adults to smoke in a car if they are riding with keiki under the age of 18. Garden Island.

Computer Hospital owner Jeff Elkins’ troubles began when he received a warning letter from the Hawaii Department of Health asking him to cease and desist his “unpermitted operation of a solid waste management system.” Garden Island.

Two people searching for the augmented reality game “Pokemon Go’s” pocket monsters wandered into a sensitive heiau on Kauai where a cultural protocol was underway, according to the state’s Department of Land and Natural Resources. Garden Island.

Biden visits Hawaii as Pacific RIMPAC war games continue, state still needs 625 teachers, poverty and rail on tap in mayoral debates on two islands, Maui Mayor Arakawa's ties to land deal probed, Chinatown development brisk, Kauai council punts auxiliary housing bill, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu Chinatown © 2016 All Hawaii News

Economic development in Honolulu’s Chinatown is brisk but faces lingering challenges with homelessness, crime and sanitation. Hawaii Public Radio.

Vice President Joe Biden flew onto the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis off Hawaii on Thursday to thank the crew for their service and role in helping maintain economic prosperity and stability in the South China Sea. Star-Advertiser.

Joking that it's a "terrible sacrifice to come to Hawaii," Vice President Joseph Biden launched into his quick stopover in the 50th state, joining high-ranking officials from the Republic of Korea and Japan. Hawaii News Now.

With the new school year just three weeks away, the state Department of Education is still trying to fill 625 teacher vacancies. Hawaii News Now.

Federal officials plan to hold two public meetings next month — one on Oahu and the other on Kauai — to discuss the proposed expansion of Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument, according to a draft notice that’s expected to go out Friday. Civil Beat.

The search for an executive director for the state agency overseeing Hawaii’s public charter schools is starting again following an announcement that a finalist who was offered the job has declined it. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. David Ige signed into law on Tuesday a bill that will alleviate some economic pressure on Hawaii’s working poor who care for minors, the elderly or infirm individuals. West Hawaii Today.

Oahu
The city’s troubled rail project took center stage Thursday in an often fiery exchange between Honolulu’s leading mayoral candidates, who appeared together to field questions in their first forum before the August primary election. Star-Advertiser.

In Honolulu Mayoral Forum, It’s All About The Rail Project. Kirk Caldwell, Charles Djou and Peter Carlisle clashed over differing approaches to the costly mass transportation project. Civil Beat.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell has collected significantly more contributions — and spent exponentially more — than either of his two major rivals, former Mayor Peter Carlisle and onetime U.S. Rep. Charles Djou. Star-Advertiser.

Former congressman Charles Djou raised nearly $260,000 in the first three weeks of his campaign for Honolulu mayor, a sign that he’s a strong challenger, but one who is up against an incumbent with close to $1.2 million in cash on hand. Civil Beat.

The board overseeing Honolulu’s rail project spent another 2-1/2 hours Thursday discussing its CEO’s job performance behind closed doors but didn’t have anything to report publicly afterward. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu rail project has suffered from severe budget issues, and the numbers recently changed drastically within days. Pacific Business News.

Duane Kurisu’s vision to reduce Oahu’s homeless population by creating a plantation-era-style community has brought together the state and city to help turn the idea into reality. Star-Advertiser.

A group that advocates for the vacation rental industry has filed a lawsuit against the city of Honolulu over the way it enforces its bans on certain bed-and-breakfasts and transient vacation rental units. Associated Press.

Hawaii

Four candidates for mayor tried to stand out from a crowded field Thursday during a forum that concentrated on the island’s problems of homelessness, poverty and lagging infrastructure. West Hawaii Today.

A Hilo Circuit judge this week issued a ruling that gives Hawaii County the legal green light to begin construction of planned improvements to Kukuihaele Park. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Mayor Alan Arakawa said he and officials from a photovoltaic company that is leasing property rights from him and his brother visited Maui Electric Co. to discuss a possible PV park on the Omaopio properties owned by the brothers. Maui News.

All satellite DMVL offices in Maui County will close on Friday, July 15 to accommodate the reopening of the Kahului location, county officials announced earlier this week. MauiTime.

On the second Saturday of every month, a small group of hikers is led into the Waikamoi Preserve, Hawaii’s largest private nature preserve at 8,951 acres on the windward slope of Haleakala, Maui’s dormant volcanic giant. Civil Beat.

Kauai

The intention of a bill that would allow people to build additional rental units on their property was to increase inventory, not affordable housing options. Because of that confusion, the Planning Committee for the Kauai County Council unanimously voted Wednesday to defer Bill No. 2627 until the purpose of the bill is clear. Garden Island.

Alleviating traffic gridlock is a top priority for two Democratic candidates vying for the state House seat on Kauai representing Hanalei, Princeville, Kilauea, Anahola, Kapaa and Wailua. Star-Advertiser.

An open house is scheduled Saturday, July 23 at Haena State Park to discuss changes and updates to the draft master plan and environmental impact statement. Garden Island.

Lawsuit filed over false killer whale protection, Biden to observe RIMPAC, Honolulu council may get more terms, stringent environmental studies coming for state water leases, Kauai mulls car smoking ban, Attorney General sues Dog the Bounty Hunter, police and military warn abut Pokemon trespassing, Maui zip-line operates without permits, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

False killer whale and pup, courtesy Robin Baird, Cascadia Research Collective

An international environmental group filed a lawsuit Wednesday in federal court in Washington, D.C., that aims to force federal agencies to put in place overdue endangered species protections for Hawaii’s false killer whales. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s longline fleet is about to hit its 3,554-ton limit for bigeye tuna in the Western and Central Pacific, prompting a closure date for the fishery of July 22, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Civil Beat.

The vice president will spend the day in Honolulu on Thursday to attend trilateral meetings with Korea and Japan, and meet U.S. and international military personnel in Hawaii for the Rim of the Pacific exercises. Hawaii News Now.

Australian soldiers are expected to lead a battalion of troops in the storming of a Hawaii beach during the world’s largest maritime exercises this month, displaying the amphibious military skills they’ve been building up in recent years. Associated Press.

Companies that for years, and in some cases decades, have been allowed to bypass stringent environmental requirements for using public water will be required to conduct environmental reviews and consult with Native Hawaiians to see whether the use disrupts taro farming or other customary practices if they want to continue using the water. Star-Advertiser.

By Wednesday morning, U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii, and the Travel Technology Association had made their views known about the growing transient accommodation industry. Pacific Business News.

U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz and two other senators have asked the Federal Trade Commission to investigate whether online short-term rental companies such as Airbnb and HomeAway are compounding housing shortages and driving up rents in some communities. Star-Advertiser.

U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz implored the Federal Trade Commission Wednesday to investigate commercial use of the burgeoning short-term rental market on websites like Airbnb and VRBO, citing specific concerns of housing shortages, subsequent rent hikes, illegally zoned or maintained properties and discriminatory practices. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii’s AG is on the hunt for Dog the Bounty Hunter. Attorney General Doug Chin said in a press release Wednesday that his office has filed petitions to enforce judgments against Da Kine Bail Bonds and Safety National Casualty Corporation “for forfeited bail bonds those companies failed to pay” to the state. Civil Beat.

Hawaii's attorney general has filed a lawsuit against Duane “Dog” Chapman’s Honolulu-based company, Da Kine Bail Bonds Inc., and its insurance company, claiming the state is owed $35,500 for forfeited bail bonds. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

The number of terms that elected officials could serve continuously would be raised to three from the current two under one of 27 proposals the Honolulu City Charter Commission voted to advance Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

In years past, Honolulu rail Executive Director Dan Grabauskas has regularly received glowing annual reviews and $35,000 salary bonuses from the rail board for his handling of the largest public works project in state history. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu police have issued at least two times more pedestrian-related tickets than normal since stepping up enforcement of pedestrian safety laws on July 1. Star-Advertiser.

A recently released statewide homelessness survey found that there were 413 homeless veterans on Oahu, a 12 percent decrease from the previous year but 84 more homeless vets than the city calculated at about the same time. Civil Beat.

According to the latest Point in Time Count, homelessness in Hawai‘i is up 4 percent from last year, the 5th consecutive year it’s increased. That’s nearly 8,000 individual stories. HPR’s Molly Solomon has one of them. Hawaii Public Radio.

In his print, radio, television and online campaign advertisements, Mayor Kirk Caldwell has frequently emphasized what he believes are his many contributions to making Honolulu a better place to live and work. Challenger Charles Djou has taken a very different approach in his first TV ad, and he comes out swinging. Civil Beat.

A major addition to urban Honolulu’s affordable-housing supply is about to get started, after a South Korean development company blessed the site Wednesday for a predominantly affordable condominium tower near Ala Moana Center. Star-Advertiser.

The latest case confirmed Tuesday brings the total number of recent hepatitis A cases on Oahu to 52. Associated Press.

The Navy is warning Pokémon Go fans to watch where you play, because you may be posing a security risk. KHON2.

With Pokemon fever sweeping the nation after the release of the smartphone app Pokemon GO, the Honolulu Police Department is issuing tips aimed at keeping gamers safe while strolling in parks, shopping malls and other areas in search of cartoon monsters. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Members of the ad hoc Committee on Puna Connectivity on Wednesday approved a final planning document that recommends next steps for county actions to improve road access in upper Puna. Tribune-Herald.

Mayor Billy Kenoi’s use of his government issued purchase card was again on the table for discussion by the Hawaii County Board of Ethics. Big Island Video News.

Maui

The location changes, but Derek Hoyte's story remains the same: He finds a picturesque piece of land, strings up a few zip lines and operates nonpermitted tours until the county comes knocking. Maui News.

Maui County officials have rejected an application for a special-use permit by a zip line business they say has been operating illegally for six years at the site of a former World War II-era military camp in Haiku. Hawaii News Now.

Former Maui County Film Commissioner Harry Donenfeld was fired in September 2013 to appease Hollywood movie mogul Ryan Kavanaugh, and not - as claimed by Mayor Alan Arakawa - because he failed to show up at work, according to a lawsuit filed Friday in U.S. District Court. Maui News.

A bill passed by the Legislature providing additional severance and early retirement options to some Maui County public hospital workers is now in limbo following a veto Monday by Gov. David Ige, who said the measure could cost the state $60 million and jeopardize the state Employees' Retirement System's tax-exempt status. Maui News.

Kauai
It soon may be illegal for adults to smoke in their vehicle with minors. The county’s public works and parks and recreation committee unanimously voted Wednesday to recommend passing a bill that would prohibit smoking in vehicles with children under the age of 18. Garden Island.

For Thomas Lovelet, the Happy Dog Playground is a treasure. Lovelet was one of 12 people who testified during Wednesday’s Kauai County Council committee meeting about their love for the dog park and its role in the community. Garden Island.

Trap-neuter-release programs on Kauai have reduced the size of 10 colonies monitored by the organization by half over the past eight years. Garden Island.