One tropical storm down, one to go, Honolulu vacation rental law spurs lawsuits, wildfire scorches 2,500 acres on Maui, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Tropical Storm Flossie 5 a.m. Aug. 2 NOAA

Tropical Storm Erick passes south of Big Island as Flossie nears Central Pacific. though Tropical Storm Erick continued to weaken overnight on its path south of the islands, it brings with it a plethora of adverse weather conditions. Star-Advertiser.

Flossie maintained strength as a tropical storm and is expected to cross into the Central Pacific on Friday, forecasters say. At 5 a.m. Friday, the National Hurricane Center said Flossie — still packing winds of 70 mph or higher — was about 1,145 miles east of Hilo and moving west-northwest near 17 mph. Hawaii News Now.

Tropical Storm Erick weakens while Tropical Storm Flossie maintains strength. KHON2.

Tropical Storm Flossie moving fast but will slowly weaken as it approaches the islands. Flossie has winds at 70 mph. KITV.

Erick rapidly weakening south of the Big Island. Moisture associated with Erick will spread over portions of the Hawaiian Islands through Saturday. KITV.

Experts say look long term when taking precautions for upcoming storms. That will keep you prepared for the long hurricane season. KHON2.

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‘Success’ bonus sparks criticism about use of taxpayer money. The board of the Hawaii Strategic Development Corp. approved a “success bonus” of at least $52,827 for the government agency’s outgoing President Karl Fooks in June, raising concerns in the Legislature as to whether the unusual payment for a public-sector worker was an appropriate use of government funds. Star-Advertiser.

Head Start Preschool Program In Hawaii Gets Federal Boost. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services will award nearly $10 million to three Hawaii nonprofits that operate the Head Start preschool program. Civil Beat.

Thirty Meter Telescope supporters Thursday rallied at the state Capitol for the second week in a row, and like last week, they were greeted by a sizable group of TMT opponents. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

City’s new vacation rental law faces at least 2 legal challenges. The city’s new law regulating the vacation rental industry went into effect Thursday and is already facing two legal challenges. Hawaii News Now.

Vacation rental operators file suit against the city. The Hawaii Vacation Rental Owners Association filed a lawsuit in U.S. District Court today against the city over its new law prohibiting advertising of unpermitted short-term vacation rentals. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu new law in effect, banning unpermitted short-term vacation rentals. A group of vacation rental owners calls the rule 'unconstitutional' and filed a lawsuit against the city. KITV.

Short-Term Rental Owners Consider Options: Lease, Sell Or Leave It Vacant? Early indications suggest the legislation is working as intended to limit tourists in residential areas and make units available to residents. Civil Beat.

Measuring Tourism Impacts in Windward  Oahu. University of Hawaii researchers are asking how precisely are visitors affecting local neighborhoods – like those in Windward Oahu. Hawaii Public Radio.

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City and state officials missed a Wednesday deadline to reach an agreement that would have given them access to $220 million in federal funding to shore up the Ala Wai Canal and its watershed to protect Waikiki and several other Oahu neighborhoods from flooding. Star-Advertiser.

Moderately priced units in a planned Kakaako condo is attracting many buyers. All the affordable condos — one- and two-bedroom units with 511 to 799 square feet of living space — are reserved for Hawaii residents with moderate incomes and are priced from $312,600 to $657,100. Star-Advertiser.

Hale Nani health care workers to strike Friday. About 200 health care workers at Hale Nani Rehabilitation & Nursing Center are expected to participate in a one-day strike Friday over low wages and understaffing. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

UH regents to discuss Maunakea group. The University of Hawaii Board of Regents is expected to hear a motion this morning to consider the formation of a group that would advise the board on issues related to the university’s governance of Maunakea. Tribune-Herald.

University of Hawaii President David Lassner has been one of the Thirty Meter Telescope’s most vocal supporters. But in a recent interview Lassner said he’s struggling with how the project is dividing the university and broader community. Hawaii News Now.

Puna community mulls six possible bus hub sites. More than two dozen people gathered Wednesday night in Pahoa to discuss the merits of six locations identified around the community for a proposed bus hub. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Pukalani Fire Scorches 2,500 Acres, Pulehu Still Closed. Maui Now.

Maui firefighters were battling flames and difficult weather conditions Thursday night as they scrambled to bring a large brush fire in Pukalani under control. Hawaii News Now.

Brush fire near Pukalani, more than 2,500 acres burned. Pulehu Road is closed at Hansen Road and at Omaopio Road due to the fire. KITV.

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All 19 West Maui beaches sampled are ‘impaired’. All 19 sampled beaches in West Maui are “impaired” and exceed the state standard for allowable amounts of sediment and potentially harmful runoff nutrients in coastal waters, according to data collected by the Hui O Ka Wai Ola program. Maui News.

County is now taking applications for its first-time homebuyers program. The County of Maui currently is accepting applications for its First-Time Home Buyers Down Payment Assistance Program. Maui News.

Kauai

14 Days Of Emergency Supplies? Who Has That? Health department surveys provide the most detailed assessment yet of how people are responding to new state preparedness recommendations. Civil Beat.

King Tides, black moon. Another set of the year’s highest tides reached the archipelago Wednesday and Thursday, combined with swells from incoming Tropical Storm Erick and the beginning of a “black moon.” Garden Island.

Tropical Storm Erick strengthens off Hawaii, Honolulu could lose $220M on Ala Wai project, telescope staff to be allowed on Mauna Kea, police and jail guard shortage, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Canoes on the Ala Wai ©2019 All Hawaii News

State-city impasse could mean losing $220 million to shore up Ala Wai Canal. The Army Corps of Engineers must find a sponsor for its $345 million Ala Wai Flood Risk Management Project by Wednesday, and there’s no guarantee the deadline will be extended by corps officials in Washington, D.C. Star-Advertiser.

Tropical Storm Erick expected to reach hurricane strength ‘any time soon’. With its center located 1,310 miles east-southeast of Hilo at 5 a.m. today, Erick is packing winds of 70 mph and heading west at 17 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center. Star-Advertiser.

University of Hawaii’s Confucius Institute closes as FBI raises alarm. The University of Hawaii has shuttered its China­-influenced Confucius Institute following new federal restrictions and amid FBI warnings that universities are not doing enough to stem intellectual property theft and espionage. Star-Advertiser.

The Grim State Of Military Housing In Hawaii. Hundreds of families have complained about poor conditions and mistreatment by private landlords operating base housing. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Crimes go unsolved as Honolulu Police Department copes with officer shortage. The Honolulu Police Department has been short staffed for years, and in April 2018, soon after taking the reins, Chief Susan Ballard told the City Council the department had begun cutting services, including investigation of certain felony crimes by detectives. Star-Advertiser.

Kealoha’s defense team faced ‘hopeless task,’ court filing says. Citing the “mountain of evidence” proving Katherine Kealoha’s guilt, federal prosecutors have asked the U.S. Circuit Court to defer considering her motion for a new trial until after she is sentenced in October. Star-Advertiser.

Vacation Rental ‘Shakedown’ Nets Hundreds of Innocent Owners. The city received 390 calls from property owners who said they got warning letters but don’t operate an illegal rental. Civil Beat.

Hundreds of homeowners surprised to receive letters from city accusing them of short term renting. KHON2.

City Council Proposes Use Of Prosecutor's Safe House For Homeless Victims. A Honolulu City Council committee is proposing new plans for the controversial Honolulu Prosecutor’s Safe House. Hawaii Public Radio.

State says new barrier at Dillingham Airfield is for safety; skydive company calls it payback. A long line of plastic barriers now cut through a parking lot at Dillingham Airfield. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

TMT opponents say they’ll grant access to staff of existing Mauna Kea telescopes. Word of the deal was announced Sunday by project opponents. Hawaii News Now.

Mauna Kea Day 14 – UH President Lassner, Damian Marley Visit. Damian "Jr. Gong" Marley and UH President David Lassner each came to the base of Mauna Kea on Sunday, where a huge crowd continues to stand in defiance of the Thirty Meter Telescope. Big Island Video News.

Day 14: UH President David Lassner speaks on Mauna Kea. Lassner who declined to comment on our questions says he wanted to hear from the people. KHON2.

University of Hawaii President David Lassner visits Mauna Kea. Star-Advertiser.

UH President David Lassner meets with Mauna Kea demonstrators on Sunday. University of Hawaii President David Lassner met with the demonstrators on Sunday. KITV.

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Ballot proposal would pay nonprofit boards with PONC money. Officers and board members of nonprofit organizations receiving stewardship grants from the county’s public land fund could be paid for their work with taxpayer money, under a change to a proposed charter amendment unanimously approved by the County Council. West Hawaii Today.

Electric bus demonstrates inertia. An electric bus loaned to the county as a demonstration project has been parked unused at the Mass Transit baseyard since early 2018, despite council members’ enthusiasm for zero-emission buses. West Hawaii Today.

Kill rate too high? Group seeks changes to animal shelter standards. A committee of five community members has submitted to the County Clerk a ballot initiative proposal seeking to establish an animal shelter standards law. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County Council rejects workforce housing projects in West Maui. Members continue to have concerns over Launiupoko housing with 96 affordable units. Maui News.

Deputy sheriffs assist with guard work at short-staffed Maui jail. Recruitment ongoing for more adult corrections officers. Maui News.

Sugimurra: Analysis Needed for Upcountry Cesspool Replacement Requirement. Upcountry Councilmember Yuki Lei Sugimura is calling for an analysis on the requirement for Upcountry cesspool replacement. Maui Now.

Kauai

Tourists on Kauai stranded by Kuhio Highway bridge repairs. Overnight closures for Kuhio Highway bridge work have left some tourists stranded; now North Shore Kauai residents and tourism officials are ramping up efforts to ensure visitors are aware of the state’s construction schedules. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai transitioning to voting by mail in 2020. In preparation for the transition to voting by mail, the Elections Division mailed a notification postcard to all properly registered voters on Friday. Garden Island.

Keeping Poor People Out Of Jail On Kauai. The Kauai County prosecutor is betting a new policy for some traffic violations will help ease his overcrowded jail. Civil Beat.

Kauai’s Last Bookstore Standing. Bookstores used to be all over the islands, and all over the country. There are fewer now than there used to be, and on Kauai there is only one left – the Talk Story Bookstore. Hawaii Public Radio.

Lanai

Lanai families ‘exhilarated’ to receive 16 Home Lands lots Saturday. The feeling of watching Native Hawaiian families receive their own plots of land to build homes on Lanai was hard to describe for people attending the presentation Saturday. Garden Island.

16 Hawaiian Home Land Lots Awarded on Lanai. The 16 vacant lots are among 45 within the current subdivision. DHHL awarded the initial 29 lots in 2004. Maui Now.

Ige's Mauna Kea emergency proclamation spurs lawsuit, more protests, tour guides hit hard by shutdown, Kealoha linked to rail delays, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Mauna Kea protest scene PC:DLNR

Ige Sued Over Mauna Kea Emergency Proclamation. The complaint says the TMT protest does not justify the governor granting broad powers to control mountain access. Civil Beat.

TMT protesters brace for more law enforcement action at Mauna Kea. Opponents of the Thirty Meter Telescope were concerned that law enforcement officers would move in to Mauna Kea early Friday, but there had been no indication from authorities so far that a larger presence was on the mountain yet. Hawaii News Now.

An emergency proclamation signed by Gov. David Ige means that no one will be allowed on Mauna Kea, including cultural practitioners, and National Guard troops will join other law enforcement officers in dealing with protesters attempting to stop construction of a telescope at the mountain’s summit, state officials said Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Emergency proclamation closes Maunakea to the public; TMT opponents continue protest. Maunakea has been closed to the public entirely as one of the first actions under the emergency proclamation signed by Gov. David Ige Wednesday. Tribune-Herald.

Kupuna Decry Governor’s Emergency Proclamation. The kupuna holding the front lane in opposition to the Thirty Meter Telescope, many of whom were arrested the day before, held a news conference Thursday. Big Island Video News.

Protesters Condemn Governor’s Emergency Proclamation at Maunakea. A group of protesters led by kupuna held a press conference this morning, in which they condemned the governor’s Emergency Proclamation that was issued on Wednesday afternoon. Maui Now.

Arrested kupuna return to Mauna Kea upset with Ige's emergency proclamation. Earlier the access road was open to those traveling on foot, but it is now completely closed off.  KITV.

Another Day Of Waiting For Protesters, Authorities At Mauna Kea. Hundreds of Thirty Meter Telescope opponents maintain their vigil as authorities say all access to the mountain is now restricted. Civil Beat.

Latest Developments On TMT Protests At Mauna Kea. A group of elders and protest leaders called on partners in the international collaboration that is building the Thirty Meter Telescope to stop the construction. Hawaii Public Radio.

TMT Standoff, Day 4: State Clarifies Proclamation; No Arrests Today. At its peak, there were an estimated 600 people in the area and around the intersection of the Daniel K. Inouye Highway (formerly known as Saddle Road) and Mauna Kea Access Road. Big Island Now.

Quieter day at Mauna Kea after 34 arrests Wednesday afternoon. It is now day four of the standoff and there is no word on what will happen to demonstrators that are currently at the base of Mauna Kea. KHON2.

In wake of arrests, TMT protesters pledge to stand their ground. A day after 34 were arrested for blocking the access road to the summit of Mauna Kea, leaders of a growing TMT protest say they’re not going anywhere and claimed the governor’s emergency proclamation for the mountain is an “abuse of power.” Hawaii News Now.

UH president addresses ‘heartbreaking’ TMT arrests, calls for his resignation. University of Hawaii President David Lassner said Wednesday was one of the most challenging days in his six-year tenure as the head of the university system. Hawaii News Now.

Ed Case and Mazie Hirono respond to TMT. KHON2.

State Sen. Kahele says he’ll seek TMT moratorium. State Sen. Kai Kahele said this afternoon he will ask Gov. David Ige today “for a moratorium on the construction of (Thirty Meter Telescope) for the next 60 days.” Tribune-Herald.

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Hawaii Funds Women's Health Services To Address Trump Rule On Abortion Services. Hawaii officials say they are prepared to maintain women’s health services in the state as the Trump administration orders taxpayer-funded family planning clinics to stop both referring patients for abortion services and discussing the topic with them. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii jobless rate remains steady at 2.8%. The seasonally adjusted measure held at 2.8% in June for the fourth month in a row while the state’s labor force continued to shrink, according to data released Thursday by the state Department of Labor and Industrial Relations. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Thirty Meter Telescope protesters block H-1 traffic for second day. A coordinated effort presumably by Thirty Meter Telescope protesters blocked traffic on Hawaii’s busiest freeway this afternoon for the second day in a row. Star-Advertiser.

HPD calls TMT protest on H-1 Freeway ‘foolish and dangerous’. Pop-up TMT protests are happening statewide, including on Oahu roadways. On Thursday, protesters took to the H-1 Freeway westbound for a second day, creating a slow-rolling convoy near the Ward Avenue overpass. Hawaii News Now.

Federal investigators probe Katherine Kealoha’s role in costly rail project delay. Katherine Kealoha who’s now behind bars awaiting sentencing in one of the biggest public corruption cases in Hawaii history played a role in one of the first, major and costly delays of the Honolulu rail project. Hawaii News Now.

Contingency fund to cover contamination, HART says. The board of the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation on Thursday approved paying a contractor up to $10 million to deal with contaminated groundwater found in December in an aquifer about 30 feet below a rail work site at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Rail Will Spend Nearly $40 Million More On Change Order Fixes. Despite the cost increases, the 20-mile, 21-station transit line is holding steady to HART’s latest, $8.14 billion construction budget, officials say. Civil Beat.

Katherine Kealoha’s attorney seeks delays in trials. Kealoha and her husband, retired Police Chief Louis Kealoha, face an Oct. 21 trial on bank fraud and identity theft, but that date is expected to be pushed back. Star-Advertiser.

Next Kealoha Trials May Get Pushed Back As New Attorney Gets Up To Speed. Katherine Kealoha’s attorney wants to delay a bank fraud until next year. That could also set back her drug trafficking trial, too. Civil Beat.

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Board of Water Supply proposes to remove Haiku Stairs. The owners of Haiku Stairs, also known as “Stairway to Heaven,” made yet another pitch at the Kaneohe Neighborhood Board meeting Thursday evening to remove the nearly 4,000 steps above Heeia. Hawaii News Now.

BWS presents draft of Haiku Stairs environmental impact statement to Kaneohe community. A recent environmental study listed several options including taking the stairs down, or handing it over to the city to manage and open to the public. KITV.

What could be the future of Haiku Stairs in Kaneohe? KHON2.

Kailua Residents Long For Past, Worry About Future. The community is grappling with a number of issues as it grows from a small town to an overcrowded tourist destination. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Tour guides feeling the pinch of Maunakea closure. The closure of Maunakea and uncertainty about the status of Saddle Road is having a direct impact on the island’s tour guides — primarily mom and pop operations that rely on stargazing and astronomy tours to make their living. West Hawaii Today.

Mauna Kea Tour Companies Are Out Of Luck For Now. Businesses that take visitors up the mountain are stymied. And even if the protests end, Thirty Meter Telescope construction will be disruptive. Civil Beat.

Grant helps grow bikeshare program. The nonprofit organization AARP recently awarded Peoples Advocacy for Trails Hawaii, PATH, a grant to extend its bikeshare program. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Interview with Peter Martin: Developer talks about his start, challenges building affordable homes. His opponents outline issues with him; developer’s West Maui projects up for vote at council Friday. Maui News.

Kauai

Mayor: Raves welcome, not rants. When Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami was asked how the business community could help him and the county be successful, he didn’t hesitate with a simple, lighthearted answer. Garden Island.

Kalalau Trail work scheduled. Friends of Kalalau Trail is inviting volunteers to work on the Kalalau Trail on Saturday. Garden Island.

Honolulu computer glitch causes statewide problems, Hirono recovering from second cancer surgery, Biki bike-sharing begins in Honolulu, Maui Hawaiians win quiet title dispute, unexploded ordnance presents Big Island development problem, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu Hale © 2017 All Hawaii News

An attempt Tuesday to reboot the mainframe computer that runs the state system to renew driver’s licenses and vehicle registrations failed, forcing people to face a third consecutive day of delays on Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono’s surgery to remove part of her rib Tuesday was successful, and she is in recovery, according to staff from her office. The operation was the second of two surgeries planned since Hirono was diagnosed with stage 4 kidney cancer earlier this year. Star-Advertiser.

U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono is recovering from a second surgery following her kidney cancer diagnosis. KHON2.

Papahanaumokuakea National Monument Review Opposed in Hawaii. Hawaii Public Radio.

University of Hawaii President David Lassner’s six-figure salary last year ranked at the low end of pay for public university leaders, according to a new report released Tuesday night by the Chronicle of Higher Education. Star-Advertiser.

More than 5,000 residents of Hawaii’s Second Congressional District (rural Oahu and the Neighbor Islands) participated in U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard’s interactive “Telephone Town Hall” on hurricane and disaster preparedness Monday evening. Garden Island.

Oahu

After about five years of preparation, “Biki” — Honolulu’s first major bike-share rental system — finally gets rolling across town today. Star-Advertiser.

The city-sponsored Bikeshare Hawaii program gets underway today — minus about 10 docking stations within Kapiolani Park because of a dispute over whether they should be allowed there. Star-Advertiser.

Crews were busy putting about bikes in place in time for Wednesday's roll out. KITV.

Due to computer mainframe issues, the city Department of Customer Services has made the decision to partially close the city’s driver licensing centers on Wednesday, June 28. KHON2.

The city says driver licensing centers will be partially closed on Wednesday, June 28 due to computer mainframe issues. KITV.

Homeless And Community Service Workers Considered For Park Cleanup. Honolulu City Council members hear ideas for employing the homeless and getting “free labor” from court-ordered workers. Civil Beat.

What to do with recent skeletal discoveries is the question to be discussed by the State Historic Preservation Division and the Oahu Island Burial Council during a meeting Wednesday. Hawaii News Now.

Special Permits Near Honolulu Rail Line Attract Proposals For Big Hotels. Developers can build higher and denser as long as the city finds that their projects promote “transit-enhanced neighborhoods.” Civil Beat.

As speeding cars and pedestrian safety remains on the mind of some Pearl City residents, a national traffic expert is examining ways to make Oahu's roads safer. Hawaii News Now.

Charley’s Taxi has received a "Certificate of Excellence" from TripAdvisor, becoming Hawaii’s first and only taxicab company to receive the recognition from the online travel site. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

The Monday morning malfunction of a City and County of Honolulu mainframe computer has become a statewide problem for anyone seeking to obtain or renew a driver’s license, register a motor vehicle or get a state identification card. Tribune-Herald.

Gov. David Ige plans to veto a bill intended to help businesses extend their leases on state land. The bill, introduced by Rep. Mark Nakashima, was one of eight bills introduced this past session aimed at addressing economic revitalization in Hilo. None of the others passed. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii County mayor wants to coordinate the military cleanup of unexploded ordinance in the Former Waikoloa Maneuver Area in order to lift federal funding restrictions for affordable housing. Big Island Video News.

A town hall meeting on Monday night unleashed new outrage and fresh questions about an unauthorized construction project at the Punaluu Boat Launch over the weekend. Hawaii News Now.

Local businesses along Pawai Place in Kona’s Old Industrial area joined Hope Services and police officers for a street cleanup Tuesday morning. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The Division of Motor Vehicles and Licensing Kihei Satellite Office will be closed for about 3 1/2 weeks beginning Monday for expansion work, the county Department of Finance has announced. Maui News.

A 2nd Circuit Court jury returned a verdict Friday in favor of a Native Hawaiian family in a case involving Makila Land Co.’s attempt to quiet title a 3.4-acre kuleana parcel in Kauaula Valley in Lahaina. Maui News.

Kauai

A computer issue that began Monday on Oahu is affecting services at Kauai’s Department of Finance Driver Licensing division. Garden Island.

Jeff Stone, developer of the proposed Princeville Lodge, has withdrawn the project’s shoreline setback application. Garden Island.

Hofgaard Park is closed to allow the County of Kauai Housing Agency to start construction on access improvements aligned with the federal Americans with Disabilities Act. Garden Island.

Kapaia swinging bridge to be repaired. Volunteers needed; meeting near site is today. Garden Island.

Scientists to announce captive dolphin study results today, Maui passes 'Styrofoam' takeout ban, Saiki unveils House leadership, feds watch rail finance plan, Honolulu seeks police, tax hikes unpopular, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Captive dolphins at Hilton Waikoloa © 2017 All Hawaii News

Scientists tout value of studying dolphins in captivity as Dolphin Quest and other captive dolphin attractions are growing increasingly controversial. Star-Advertiser.

Newly elected House Speaker Scott Saiki unveiled his leadership team Thursday — a bigger, younger and more diverse group than his 84-year-old predecessor Joe Souki had in place during his tenure. Civil Beat.

House Speaker Scott Saiki, who took over House leadership earlier this month after members effectively ousted Rep. Joe Souki, has announced his leadership team, emphasizing its inclusion of women and a younger generation of leaders. Star-Advertiser.

House Rep. Cindy Evans, a Democrat who represents North Kona, North Kohala and South Kohala, has been promoted to House Majority Leader. West Hawaii Today.

Paying double? Public on the hook twice as state workers collect incentive some didn’t earn. KHON2.

Democratic attorneys general in more than a dozen states, including Hawaii, announced today they would attempt to intervene in a federal lawsuit that threatens to undercut funding for the Affordable Care Act. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii on Wednesday honored 13 businesses and eight events for pursuing energy efficiency and sustainable business practices with this year's Hawaii Green Business awards. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii’s unemployment rate didn’t change in April, but more people were working and fewer were without jobs, according to state data released Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate fell to 2.7 percent in April, a 0.4 percentage-point decline from 3.1 percent in April 2016. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

The Honolulu rail transit project’s top official said Thursday that the federal government is anxious for more details on how the city plans to pay for its partially built $8.2 billion rail line. Associated Press.

Honolulu rail board members spent much of their Thursday meeting — the first since state lawmakers adjourned without a funding deal — debating how to cover the project’s short-term construction costs. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell has tapped former Hawaiian Airlines’ executive Hoyt Zia to replace Colbert Matsumoto on the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation board. Star-Advertiser.

New numbers show an alarming number of vacancies within the ranks of the Honolulu Police Department – and a decline in the size of average recruiting classes is doing little to fix the problem. Hawaii News Now.

Two former officers charged with similar crimes and sued for identical reasons got very different treatment from the Honolulu Police Commission. Civil Beat.

University of Hawaii President David Lassner has called for a “systematic paydown” of a $14.7 million net accumulated athletic department deficit with Manoa campus funds. Star-Advertiser.

Prime property in Honolulu is taking a step toward development. Back in 2012, in a settlement with the state, OHA acquired 30 acres of land in Kakaako Makai, valued at $200 million. KITV.

The weather wasn’t a deterrent to the nearly 200 parents and children who cozied up under blankets, and camped out on beach chairs and in tents on the sidewalks to land a coveted spot at the Manoa Valley District Park’s Summer Fun program. Civil Beat.

The U.S. Department of Defense has awarded Honolulu-based INK Arch LLC with a contract worth a potential $15 million over five years to conduct architectural and other related products at various Navy, Marine Corps and government facilities across the state. Pacific Business News.

Hawaiian Electric Co. said it is awaiting approval by the state Public Utilities Commission for its annual “decoupling” rate adjustment that would raise a typical customer’s bill by 60 cents. Star-Advertiser.

A new lawsuit claims dozens of people have been tricked into renting filthy apartments at an Oahu complex infested with rats. Hawaii News Now.

Canoes at Maunalua Bay were vandalized for the third time this week before sunrise Thursday, when culprits cut lashings to 16 canoes that had been lined up at the water’s edge at the Diamond Head side of the bay. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Everything was on the table but little was decided Thursday during a marathon County Council meeting on the budget, as local lawmakers took their first good look at a $491 million spending plan that includes expenses largely out of county control. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County’s tax exemptions should help long-timers, not just old-timers, several County Council members said Thursday. Tribune-Herald.

Proposed tax increases for Hawaii County home owners are on the table, as the Hawaii County Council held a special session on Thursday to go over the proposed operating budget for fiscal year 2017-18. Big Island Video News.

Big Island tourism had another strong showing in the first quarter of 2017, with one market in particular seeing a boost. Tribune-Herald.

A local lawmaker and fire chief said they will continue to advocate for state funds to put lifeguards at Kua Bay. West Hawaii Today.

Residents who wanted their voices heard on the Saddle Road extension project, which is moving expeditiously toward final design and construction, got their platform Wednesday night. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The Maui County Council on Thursday evening unanimously passed a bill to ban the sale and use of polystyrene foam containers — a staple of takeout food eateries — throughout Maui County. Maui News.

Kaiser Permanente is on target to take over operations of Maui Memorial Medical Center on July 1, promising increased coverage of orthopedic and neurological surgeries in the coming months, officials said Wednesday night at the Kula Community Center. Maui News.

During Hawaii’s mass coral bleaching event in 2014 and 2015, the reefs of leeward Maui were among the hardest hit. Now, they’ve been marked as a “priority site” in a recovery plan put together by environmental agencies. Maui News.

A University of Hawaii report shows Maui County’s recent economic peaks and valleys, forecasting favorable conditions but slower growth. Maui News.

Maui County’s 3% unemployment rate for April was up slightly from the 2.9% reported a month earlier, and down slightly from the 3.1% reported at the same time last year. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kanani Fu, county housing agency director, was among a large crowd that celebrated the blessing of the Hanamaulu housing project, which will eventually have more than 150 homes — single-family and duplexes — including 32 affordable housing units by D. R. Horton. Garden Island.

Kauai legislators secured more than $181 million in capital improvement project funds for the Garden Isle for fiscal years 2018 and 2019. Garden Island.

State parties try to rein in members, Pearl Harbor preps for 75th anniversary, Lassner gets high marks as UH president, Honolulu police and domestic violence, invasive species control pits Maui property owner against government, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Road in Hawaii © 2016 All Hawaii News

The state recently sold more than $204 million in highway revenue bonds at the lowest interest rate in the 23-year history of the state’s Highway Revenue Bond Program. The bond sale raised over $247 million. Pacific Business News.

Will Hawaii Dems’ Progressive Movement Have Staying Power? Energized by the Sanders presidential campaign and hot-button local issues, a handful of newcomers spiced up primary races. Civil Beat.

State political parties seem to be having a hard time keeping some of their members in check. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii GOP Appears Stuck With Angela Aulani Kaaihue. As offensive as the congressional nominee’s views on ethnicity and religion are, there is little that the Republican Party can do to make her go away. Civil Beat.

Japan’s first lady Akie Abe teamed up with U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye’s widow Monday to launch an environmental symposium that they hope will become an annual gathering of students, scientists and activists from both sides of the Pacific Ocean. Star-Advertiser.

A witness to Pearl Harbor and a USS Arizona survivor added to their World War II legacies over the past week as big plans continue to unfold for the 75th anniversary of the Dec. 7, 1941, attacks on Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

University of Hawaii President David Lassner received high marks on his latest performance evaluation by the Board of Regents but again requested no salary increase. Star-Advertiser.

Going Green At IUCN. Organizers of the World Conservation Congress meeting in Hawaii next month urge participants to be “carbon neutral, plastic free, paper low.” Civil Beat.

State officials are gearing up to give a helping hand to some of Hawaii’s smallest creatures through programs involving captive rearing and release into the wild. Star-Advertiser.

New nautical rules have gone into effect, increasing safety requirements for numerous vessels and leading to more registration requirements. West Hawaii Today.

DRFortress, the largest carrier-neutral data center and cloud services provider operating in Hawaii, has been selected as the landing and operating partner in the state for a planned 8,700-mile trans-Pacific submarine cable system from Australia and New Zealand to Hawaii and the West Coast. Pacific Business News.

New state data aimed at helping newly licensed marijuana dispensaries determine where to set up shop shows the Big Island has nearly twice as many medical marijuana patients as Oahu. Associated Press.

Oahu
Domestic violence victims and their advocates say officers showing favoritism toward a fellow officer — is not uncommon when one of “Honolulu’s finest” is accused of abusing a family or household member. Star-Advertiser.

Advocates for domestic violence victims say the process for filing complaints against police officers in Hawaii is too stringent and needs to be changed. Star-Advertiser.

Imagine re-thinking a neighborhood through the lens of food. That’s what a group of residents, business owners, and policy makers in Kaka‘ako have been doing. Hawaii Public Radio.

Commentary: When The Law Allows Overbuilding For The Rich. A proposal to build six luxury condos on a single oceanfront lot is the type of project that’s more likely to benefit out-of-staters than locals. Civil Beat.

Manoa Botanicals LLC has begun forming companies that will be part of its effort as one of the eight firms in Hawaii to get medical marijuana dispensary licenses in the state, Pacific Business News has learned.

Dozens gathered at Schofield Barracks Monday as the US Army and Hawaiian Electric broke ground on a new power plant. KITV.

Hawaiian Electric and the U.S. Army are building a power plant capable of burning biofuels. Associated Press.

Hawaii

The number of applications for photovoltaic systems in Hawaii County has dropped considerably from last year’s numbers, according to permit data from the county Department of Public Works. Tribune-Herald.

The state has sold more than $200 million in highways revenue bonds, of which $22 million are headed to the Big Island, the governor’s office announced Monday. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii County Council Committee on Planning voted to halt decisions on rezoning applications for projects in Hamakua until the district’s community development plan is adopted. Big Island Video News.

Former Hawaii politician and real estate developer D.G. “Andy” Anderson and his grandsons, Brad and Cord Anderson, plan to assign their state-leased parcel surrounded by the Coconut Grove Marketplace in Kailua-Kona on the Big Island to the owner of the shopping center. Pacific Business News.

Greggor Ilagan is wasting no time choosing a new career path following his failed state senate bid. The Puna councilman has launched a new YouTube channel, Ilagan Videos. His first offering is the shaving cream challenge. Big Island Video News.

Maui

One resident's attempts to keep employees from invasive species agencies off his Huelo property have created a clash of rights between communities wanting to eradicate invasive species, and individuals opposed to the methods used to fight them. Maui News.

Maui authorities are discussing how to eradicate invasive species without trampling on the rights of individuals opposed to the methods used to fight them. Associated Press.

Grand reopening held at park. Maui News.

The 22-acre, 413-room Fairmont Kea Lani hotel in Wailea on Maui recently completed a solar energy project that is expected to reduce the property’s electricity demand by more than 10 percent, the resort said Monday. Pacific Business News.

Charles Louis Millman of Maui Marine Photography captured this rare look of what he described as a pod of melon-headed whales off of Kīhei, Maui today. Maui Now.

Kauai
Improvements to Waimea Canyon Drive, Kokee Road and parts of Kuhio Highway will be funded by the state, officials announced Monday. Kauai received more than $2.2 million for improvements from Leho Drive to Aleka Loop, on Kuhio Highway and Waimea Canyon Drive and Kokee Road, said Tim Sakahara, spokesman for Hawaii Department of Transportation. Garden Island.

Flags can create a firestorm of controversy, Jane Gray, director of the Kauai Museum discovered Monday afternoon. Outside the museum, an American flag flew alongside the Japan national flag. Garden Island.

A trial date is set for a Lihue man incarcerated at Halawa Correctional Facility who said two Kauai jail corrections officers violated his civil rights when they allegedly did not allow him to practice his religion. Garden Island.

Campaign spending reported as primary Election Day nears, Ige's emergency proclamations sidestep competitive bids, Wong exits as Health and Human Services director, 3 charter schools approved, Maui Beach Hotel loses liquor license, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Falls of Clyde, courtesy Creative Commons

A 138-year-old sailing ship that's been a landmark in Honolulu Harbor for more than 50 years has been ordered to leave by the state. The "Falls of Clyde" was supposed to be scuttled in 2008, but escaped that fate. However, the state Harbors Division said it was time for it to go. Hawaii News Now.

Possibly the safest electoral seats in Hawaii have been on the Office of Hawaiian Affairs Board of Trustees. For 20 years, voters have consistently returned the same people to the board of OHA, which is charged with improving the lives of Native Hawaiians regarding land, culture, economic self sufficiency, health, education and governance. Civil Beat.

Most incumbents in the Hawaii Legislature have huge campaign finance advantages this election cycle, often doubling or tripling their challengers’ total contributions. On average, through July 29 incumbents have raised about $54,750 while the challengers have only raised about $12,300. Of the 49 contested legislative races in this election, 42 incumbents have raised more than their challengers. Civil Beat.

Tomorrow is primary Election Day across the state. Some noteworthy races include the Mayor’s office for both Honolulu and Hawai‘i County.  Also at stake are nearly half of Honolulu’s city council and county council seats in Maui, Kaua‘i and Hawai‘i County. Hawaii Public Radio.

By issuing sequential emergency proclamations on such issues as homelessness, Gov. David  Ige runs the risk of establishing a new standard in which union rights and procurement rules are no longer factors. Star-Advertiser.

Rachel Wong will no longer serve as director of the state Department of Human Services, effective Sept. 1. Gov. David Ige announced Thursday in a news release that Wong will be leaving the department at the end of the month. She will be replaced Sept. 1 by Pankaj Bhanot, now deputy director. Bhanot’s appointment is subject to Senate approval. Star-Advertiser.

Rachael Wong is leaving her post as director of the state Department of Human Services at the end of the month. She will be replaced by Deputy Director Pankaj Bhanot beginning Sept. 1. Civil Beat.

U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa didn’t want to leave Washington when she gave up her House seat to run for the Senate two years ago. Associated Press.

Three charter school applicants got the green light Thursday from the state Public Charter School Commission to move ahead with plans for new schools on Oahu and Kauai. The commission, meanwhile, rejected four other applications. Star-Advertiser.

University of Hawaii President David Lassner is seeking approval to expand his duties to include those of chancellor of the flagship Manoa campus, a critical post that for two years has not been permanently filled. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Charles Djou continues to enjoy a fundraising spurt in the race to become mayor of Honolulu. The former congressman received over $40,000 in campaign contributions since July 30, according to a Campaign Spending Commission filing Wednesday. That compares with just over $10,000 for incumbent Kirk Caldwell during the same period. Civil Beat.

Residents and officials offered praise and raised concerns after the long-awaited Nanakuli contra-flow lane opened Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Cost estimates to build the Honolulu rail project have been skyrocketing and officials are trying to figure out the best plan for finishing the line. The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation, the agency overseeing construction, has been revising estimates as new bids come in. Civil Beat.

New law gives Kakaako businesses a break from skyrocketing property tax. KHON2.

The director of the Daniel K. Inouye Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies plans to step down at the end of his current term. Retired Lt. Gen. Dan Leaf’s last day at the military-sponsored academic institute will be Oct. 31. Associated Press.

Hawaii

A last-minute cash infusion from two labor unions put mayoral candidate Wally Lau over the $200,000 mark, while his two closest rivals have reported about a tenth of that. West Hawaii Today.

Puna Councilman Danny Paleka recently paid a $1,250 fine and filed amended campaign finance reports for 2014, following a state Campaign Spending Commission investigation that found he failed to report numerous contributions and expenditures. West Hawaii Today.

Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard spent Thursday morning in Kailua-Kona, capping off her visit with a talk story meeting at Daylight Mind Coffee Co. West Hawaii Today.

Despite challenges including higher-than-anticipated cost projections, HOPE Services Hawaii says it’s moving forward with plans to renovate 11 housing units for the island’s low-income kupuna. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii’s fresh milk supply appears as though it might go down in connection with a planned sale of one of the two remaining large dairy farms in the state, though the deal would also lead to a new supply of organic local cheese, yogurt and butter. Star-Advertiser.

The monthslong reconstruction of Komohana Street in Hilo will now carry into the fall. Tribune-Herald.

Big Island loses cultural gem: Aunty Elizabeth Maluihi Lee dies at 87. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The Maui County Council issued a statement this afternoon after becoming aware of a Facebook ad and automated phone calls that they say “misinforms residents” about “retroactive tax assessments on property owners.” Maui Now.

‘Running on empty’ — Many bumps and stalls in hospital management transition. Lahaina News.

The 63-year-old Maui Beach Hotel lost its liquor license for the first time ever and has been dry since July 1, officials told the county Department of Liquor Control Commission Wednesday. Maui News.

The median condo price was $440,000 last month compared with $399,000 in July 2015, an increase of 10.3 percent. The number of condos sold rose to 110 from 87, a jump of 26.4 percent. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

Patricia Wistinghausen, member of the Kauai Young Democrats, says the District 14 House of Representatives race is one to watch. Garden Island.

The potential expansion of Papahanaumokuakea National Marine Monument was the main concern at Wednesday evening’s Kauai Office of Hawaiian Affairs Board of Trustees meeting. Garden Island.

The third time was the charm for Alakai O Kauai Charter School. The school was unanimously approved by the Hawaii State Charter School Commission Thursday, following a recommendation for approval in June. Garden Island.

Over a dozen agencies that participated in an active shooter, first response exercise at KCC on Thursday and agreed the practice of such an event is important. 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.