Showing posts with label Hawaii Republican Party. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Hawaii Republican Party. Show all posts

Monday, December 31, 2018

Hawaii Supreme Court weighs in on Honolulu council race, complaint filed over GOP campaign finance, media weigh in on top 2018 stories, new laws for 2019, more top state and local government news from all the Hawaiian islands

copyright 2018 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Diamond Head aerial view ©2018 All Hawaii News
No fishing at Waikiki to Diamond Head shoreline in 2019. Environmental advocates like the idea of a closure, but think the time frame needs to be longer for it to be effective. KITV.

More than two years after Gov. David Ige’s administration unveiled a 10-year, $378 million plan to escalate the state’s fight against invasive species, much of it remains unfunded and the governor plans to ask the Legislature to provide only a fraction of what was envisioned for the next two fiscal years. Star-Advertiser.

A longtime critic of the Hawaii Republican Party is alleging top state GOP leaders violated federal campaign spending laws by illegally funneling excess contributions to Cam Cavasso during his campaign for the U.S. House this year, but Republican Party Chairwoman Shirlene Ostrov says the party assistance to the Cavasso campaign was legal. Star-Advertiser.

A new law that goes into effect Tuesday aims to put a tighter leash on dog owners who fraudulently try to pass their pets off as service animals. Star-Advertiser.

With the 2018 hurricane season now behind us, the state has mailed out surveys to some Hawaii residents asking how prepared they are to face a major hurricane. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Ceded Lands Revenue Debate Simmers At Capitol. Big Island Video News.

Ahi prices are up as tradition is coming at a higher cost. KHON2.

The year that was 2018 might best be known in Hawaii for its explosions — the ones that did happen and the big one that didn’t. Star-Advertiser.

As the year comes to an end, Hawaii News Now takes a look back at the impressive and unforgettable stories of 2018 in this digital documentary. Hawaii News Now.

Star-Advertiser photographers pick their photos of the year. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

State Supreme Court to decide fate of City Council race with razor-thin win. Nearly eight weeks after the general election, one of the closest races still hasn’t officially been decided. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Supreme Court says elections of Ozawa, Fevella uncertified. On Friday, the five Justices ordered state and city election officials to provide the following to Waters and LoPresti: information setting forth the margin of error for the electronic vote counting machines when applying the tabulation procedures, and -information setting forth how the intent of the voter is ensured in a close election without a hand count. KHON2.

Impeachment Waits While City Considers Paying Kaneshiro’s Legal Fees. A judge puts the case on hold to give the City Council time to decide if taxpayers must provide the prosecuting attorney with a lawyer. Civil Beat.

The petition to oust Honolulu Prosecutor Keith Kaneshiro is being described as uncharted waters. KHON2.

A new report by Honolulu Auditor Edwin Young concludes that a ban on foam or polystyrene food containers on Oahu would not reduce litter on the island, but would negatively affect some smaller businesses. Star-Advertiser.

More than 100,000 residents and visitors are expected to view the annual Fireworks by Grucci display that will begin at 11:55 p.m. tonight from a barge in waters off Waikiki Beach. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Leilani Estates residents are giving up on a lawsuit they filed against Hawaii County that would have returned a security checkpoint to the neighborhood devastated by lava. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii County Council is being asked to add projects related to damage caused by recent disasters to the capital budget and accept funds for a recovery plan for Puna. Tribune-Herald.

The partial closure of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park does not appear to be keeping tourists away from Volcano, to the relief of businesses that depend on them. Tribune-Herald.

With a new year just around the corner, improvements at the Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole continue. West Hawaii Today.

Aloha, 2018! The Tribune-Herald’s top stories of the year. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Fate of Fong land in Keokea now up in the air. Dispute over water meters, subdivision puts Grandma’s site in question. Maui News.

Applications and proposals for a recycling grant program through the county Department of Environmental Management are being accepted for the next fiscal year, which begins July 1. Maui News.

A project to honor Maui County’s Mayors and Managing Directors was unveiled Thursday afternoon featuring a Wall of Mayors and a Wall of Managing Directors on the 9th Floor of the County Building in Wailuku. Maui Now.

Kauai

Peter Ingram, Hawaiian Airlines president and CEO, will be the keynote speaker at the Jan. 15 meeting of the Kauai Chamber of Commerce at the Aqua Kauai Beach Resort. Garden Island.

Top 10 stories: A look back at 2018. Garden Island.

Tuesday, December 4, 2018

Gov. Ige and Lt. Gov. Green inaugurated to four-year term: media coverage, speech text, videos, GOP response, more. Plus inaugurations on neighbor islands, more top news

courtesy Governor's Office
Swearing in of Gov. David Ige PC: Governor's Office
Gov. David Ige stresses ‘moving forward together’ at second inauguration. Gov. David Ige stressed the need for unity after being sworn in for his second term as governor in the rotunda of the Hawaii State Capitol on Monday, and suggested that the state is at a crossroads as leaders look to build a more diversified and sustainable economy driven by technology. Star-Advertiser.

Ige Begins Second Term With Call To ‘Move Forward, Together’. The governor said he is “eager and excited about the prospect of tackling all that is before us” after being sworn in for another four years. Civil Beat.

Gov. David Ige, Lt. Gov. Josh Green sworn into office. Gov. David Ige and Lt. Gov. Josh Green were sworn in Monday at a ceremony that took place in the State Capitol Rotunda. KHON2.

Governor David Ige was sworn in for a second term by Chief Justice Mark Recktenwald.  In his address, the governor repeated the inauguration theme of moving forward together.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Ige sworn in for a second term. Gov. David Ige took the oath of office Monday for a second term as Hawaii’s governor, saying this generation’s legacy will rest on how well it prepares children for a technology-driven future. Associated Press.

Gov. David Ige and Lt. Gov. Josh Green were sworn-in today, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018 at the State Capitol Rotunda. During his inaugural address, Gov. Ige focused on three specific areas–Education, Housing and Sustainability–saying, “I believe our legacy will rest on how well we meet the challenges of the 21st century, and how well we begin to transform our economy.” Maui Now.

In laying out his plan for the next 4 years, Ige condemns Trump administration for ‘troubling’ direction. Hawaii News Now.

Gov. David Ige's inauguration speech full text.

Gov. David Ige's inauguration speech video.

Lt. Gov. Josh Green speech video.

Hawaii Republican Party inauguration speech response. Hawaii Free Press.

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Path to the presidency may be tough: political analyst weighs in on Gabbard's chances. Hawaii U.S. Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard said she's seriously considering making a run for president. KITV.

Hawaii Does Fine Raking In Federal Dollars Without Earmarks. There’s talk in Congress of resurrecting the system for bringing home the bacon. But lawmakers say it’s questionable how much that would help the state. Civil Beat.

Hawaii soldier to be sentenced for trying to provide material support to ISIS. Associated Press.

International Students Continue To Fuel State's Economy.  A new study recently released by the Department of Business Economic Development and Tourism shows International students help to contribute close to a billion dollars to our state coffers. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Tuna Fishermen Want Higher Quotas. Stable ahi prices are expected during the holidays, but environmental groups are concerned about the longterm health of fish stocks. Civil Beat.

Hawaii bankruptcy filings for 2018 jump to 3-year high. Hawaii bankruptcies surged last month amid a slowing state economy and are now guaranteed to finish the year with the worst outcome since at least 2016. Star-Advertiser.

Electric vehicle push to provide Hawaii with over $700M in economic benefits, HECO predicts. Hawaiian Electric estimates that transforming the Islands' transportation sector from fossil fuels toward electricity could result in economic benefits of more than $700 million over the next 27 years. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

7 vacation rental bills before the Council. Seven bills that try to both regulate and legitimize Oahu’s short-term vacation rentals get their first airing before the Honolulu City Council on Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

HPD Program For Domestic Violence Victims Stalls. Two years after advocates convinced Honolulu police officers to implement a threat assessment form for victims, its use has dropped by half. Civil Beat.

10-cannon salute at governor’s inauguration sent students at Honolulu school fleeing from classrooms. Hawaii News Now.

The city is a step closer to initiating a condemnation action to acquire an easement for a long-­discussed public beach right of way to the ocean ­ in East Honolulu’s ritzy Portlock Road area. Star-Advertiser.

It’s ‘twilight’ for Pearl Harbor survivors. It’s extra noteworthy that Everett Hyland, a Dec. 7, 1941, attack survivor who was on the USS Pennsylvania, will return the salute of a passing Navy warship at Friday’s anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. Star-Advertiser.

Foodland Farms to open as part of new Kahala retail center. The project called Kuono Marketplace at Kahala will provide about 50,000 square feet of commercial space for about 20 tenants in a contiguous complex fronted by about 150 parking stalls and a gas station on the corner of Waialae Avenue and Hunakai Street where a Shell station once stood. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

A new County Council was seated Monday, with its chairman pledging renewed cooperation between county and state governments and a session without distractions from the serious issues of the day. West Hawaii Today.

Aaron Chung, the newly elected chair of the Hawaii County Council, said he plans to make recovery from the 2018 Kilauea eruption a top priority in the coming year. Big Island Video News.

Big Isle dispensary rebrands with new name. Lau Ola LLC, one of two licensed medical marijuana companies on the island, said Monday that it will operate under a new name: Big Island Grown (B.I.G.) Dispensaries. Star-Advertiser.

Lau Ola LLC, one of the two permitted medical cannabis providers on Hawaii Island, is announcing a company rebrand, changing its name to Big Island Grown Dispensaries. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Discussing an audit critical of the county liquor department and commission, Maui County Council members Monday called for increased oversight of the independent entities and expressed dismay at some of their practices. Maui News.

A 2nd Circuit Court judge determined Monday that shoreline hardening plans for the Hololani condominiums should have required an environmental assessment, and that county officials did not take that into account when approving changes to the condos’ plans. Maui News.

Women’s March Founder From Maui Declines Participation in Anniversary Event. Teresa Shook, the Hawaii woman who founded the Women’s March, publicly called for the four leaders of the Women’s March Inc. to step down. Maui Now.

Not much left of Makena hotel. After starting this summer, demolition of the old Makena Beach & Golf Resort, formerly the Maui Prince Hotel, looks to be nearing an end. Maui News.

Kauai

Mayor Derek Kawakami has big plans for his first 100 days in office — among them, a round of internal audits to improve government performance, the creation of a new office to address problems facing the community and improving the government’s approach to customer service. Garden Island.

Kauai Mayor Derek Kawakami sworn into office. Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami and members of the 2018-2020 Kauai County Council were sworn into office by Judge Randal G. B. Valenciano at the Kauai War Memorial Convention Hall on Monday. KHON2.

Council, in 5-2 vote, elects Kaneshiro chair. Arryl Kaneshiro was appointed Kauai County Council Chair, with Ross Kagawa as vice chair at the newly-elected council’s inaugural meeting Monday, despite pleas from some residents in attendance that Councilman Mason Chock be selected for one of those positions. Garden Island.

Inauguration attendees look forward to future. Garden Island.

Woman accused of stealing nearly $365,000 from Pacific Missile Range Facility on Kauai. Court documents reveal Rowenalynn Yorkman carried out the scheme while working as a travel clerk for the Pacific Missile Range Facility in Barking Sands on Kauai. KHON2.

Monday, November 12, 2018

Veterans Day commemorated on all the Hawaiian Islands, GOP lost by widest margin since statehood, Bruno Mars donates 24k Thanksgiving dinners, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2018 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Veterans Day parade in Hilo, Hawaii ©2018 All Hawaii News
Veterans Day: what's open and closed. Monday is a federal, state and county holiday and those respective offices will be closed. KHON2.

Veterans Day event honors armistice of World War I. Sunday is Veterans Day, and its also the 100th anniversary of the end of The Great War. KITV.

Remembering Hawaii's Role in The Great War. Hawaii Public Radio.

HIFF film "Voices Behind Barbed Wire" details Japanese-American internment in Hawaii. A movie made in Hawaii screens at the Hawaii International Film Festival on Monday. "Voices Behind Barbed Wire" explores the personal stories of Japanese-Americans living in Hawaii interned at Sand Island and Honouliuli on Oahu, and on the mainland. KITV.

Navy’s only drone submarine hunter arrives at Pearl Harbor. A 132-foot robot warship that arrived at Pearl Harbor for testing as a submarine hunter is “creating a new paradigm for Navy surface forces,” the U.S. Pacific Fleet said. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii GOP lost by largest margin since statehood. When Republican state Rep. Andria Tupola lost to Gov. David Ige by nearly 29 percentage points in last week’s general election, it was the most dramatic drubbing in a gubernatorial race in state history. Star-Advertiser.

160,000 Pounds Of Marine Trash From Papahanaumokuakea. NOAA displayed tons of plastic and other debris collected in the remote Northwest Hawaii Islands, where the trash threatens wildlife and coral. Civil Beat.

courtesy University of Hawaii Institute for Astronomy
UH scientists doubt space object has alien origins. When the first space object from beyond our solar system was discovered from Hawaii last year, there was a lot of playful speculation about whether it was an alien spacecraft. Star-Advertiser.

On the day of his final concert in the islands, Bruno Mars announced that he will provide 24,000 Thanksgiving meals to Hawaii families in need. Hawaii News Now.

Superstar Bruno Mars ends his historic “24K Magic World Tour” Sunday night in his hometown of Honolulu, and will provide meals to 24,000 Hawaii residents in need during the Thanksgiving holiday. KITV.

Bruno Mars donates 24K Thanksgiving meals to Salvation Army. He may have wrapped up his 24K Magic World Tour shows in Hawaii on Sunday, but Bruno Mars performed a different kind of 24K magic that will last beyond his final show at Aloha Stadium. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s plan to address large-scale houses — as well as two alternate proposals — will be aired by the full Honolulu City Council for the first time at its meeting Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

State grants Kahala resort continued use of public beach. A decision by the state Board of Land and Natural Resources could mean that the Kahala Hotel &Resort can now legally use more of the public lands adjacent to its property for commercial purposes. Star-Advertiser.

About 2,000 gallons of wastewater spilled into a storm drain that drains into the ocean today at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, a Navy Facilities Hawaii spokeswoman said. Star-Advertiser.

Navy officials reported Sunday a large wastewater spill adjacent to the Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard facilities on base. The Navy says the spill was reported around 7:10 a.m. near Bravo Pier 13. Hawaii News Now.

Nanakuli charter school once hailed as educational leader in upheaval amid financial woes. For years, Ka Waihona o ka Naauao in Nanakuli has been dedicated to academic excellence and Hawaiian culture for its 600 students. Hawaii News Now.

The developer of Ward Village in Kakaako took the tiniest of steps recently to reach a major milestone: declaring its first “sold out” condominium tower. Star-Advertiser.

A major Hawaii printer is closing its commercial printing business and laying off 93 people in part because of tariffs the U.S. slapped on imports of Chinese paper. Associated Press.

Hagadone Hawaii to shutter commercial printing operations, lay off 93 workers. The printing press, which is owned by Idaho-based The Hagadone Corporation, cited rising costs due to increased import tariffs and the shift of local commercial print jobs and publications to the Mainland as the primary reasons. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

A proposal under consideration for the 2020 ballot would cut the county open space land fund by half and allow the County Council to suspend the fund in emergencies or when too much money accumulates. West Hawaii Today.

The state Department of Health will hold a public informational meeting and hearing Wednesday on the Hu Honua Bioenergy plant being built at Pepeekeo. Janice Okubo, a DOH spokeswoman, said public meetings aren’t required for the applications, and are being held in response to a high amount of public interest. Tribune-Herald.

Makeshift checkpoint erected near beach park. Wayson Ioane was tired of people driving into the area near Lehia Beach Park at the end of Kalanianaole Avenue to take drugs. Tribune-Herald.

The number of Big Island middle and high school students who report using drugs and alcohol is higher than state averages, according to new statistics from the 2017 Hawaii Youth Risk Behaviors Hawaii School Health Survey. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaiian Ethos can’t confirm opening date, sets sneak peek of Kona dispensary for December. After substantial delays, Hawaiian Ethos has begun growing medicinal cannabis for distribution from its Kona location. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Wahine power breaks up the old boys club. In a historic first, women take the majority of the next Maui County Council. Maui News.

Money matters. Candidates reflect on the green that oils political campaigns. Maui News.

Maui’s home prices approach record high. The median price of single-family homes jumped 15.8 percent to a near-record $774,223 from $668,675 in the year-earlier month, according to new data from the Realtors Association of Maui. Star-Advertiser.

Gas prices on Maui have been rising. According to the AAA Hawaii Weekend Gas Watch. AAA Hawaii reported that the average gas price in Kahului on Thursday was $4.21. Maui Now.

Kauai


The first phase of construction for the Lihue Town Core Mobility and Revitalization project will begin Tuesday and work will continue on weekdays from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., according to the Department of Public Works and Kiewit Infrastructure West Co. Garden Island.

‘New era in agriculture’. Agriculture is more than digging a hole in the ground and planting something, said Judith Rivera, Corteva Agriscience Hawaii research lead Friday at the dedication and blessing of a new lab building in Kekaha.Garden Island.

Kauai oceanfront estate sets new record for Hawaii residential properties with $46M sales price. The sale of a 15-acre oceanfront estate with a 10,000-square-foot home above Secret Beach on the North Shore of Kauai has closed for $46.1 million, the highest price for a Hawaii residential property so far in 2018, and a new all-time record for a residential property in Hawaii. Pacific Business News.

Thursday, November 8, 2018

Hawaii election aftermath: lone GOP senator raring to go, House reorganization show little change, voter turnout up, 22 votes won Honolulu council seat, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

photo courtesy of Charles Freedman
Hawaii state Capitol, photo by Charles Freedman
For the first time in two years, a Republican will have a seat in Hawaii’s state Senate. Kurt Fevella squeaked out a win in Ewa Beach, beating Democratic rival Matt LoPresti by just 117 votes. Hawaii News Now.

Fevella’s win gives Republicans a state Senate caucus of 1. Kurt Fevella, the newly elected Republican senator from Ewa, won’t have the benefit of senior leadership teaching him how to wrestle earmarks into the state budget or how to navigate the arcane procedural rules of floor sessions when the Legislature convenes in January. Star-Advertiser.

The 2018 General Election delivered huge wins for Democrats on the top of the party ticket. Hawaii Public Radio.

Ed Case ready to return to Congress. Case says he sees the new Democratic majority in the House as an opportunity for Democrats and Republicans to come together. KHON2.

Toppled after 28 years at OHA, Akana says she was a target. Rowena Akana won a seat on the Office of Hawaiian Affairs board of trustees in 1990 and was re-elected seven straight times stretching across three decades. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii saw an uptick in the number of people who voted Tuesday compared to the last two midterm elections. The 398,398 residents represented 53 percent of all registered voters — showing up in greater numbers than the 2010 and 2014 midterms. Star-Advertiser.

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Hotel strike enters its second month. The Unite Here Local 5 hotel workers strike, which has become the union’s longest running Hawaii hotel strike in nearly three decades, is now a month old. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc.’s earnings rose 9.7 percent in the third quarter as the holding company’s utilities benefited from higher rates and its bank posted a strong performance. Star-Advertiser.

An entity owned by Hawaii businessman Duane Kurisu spent more than $16.7 million purchasing four ground leases on Oahu and the Big Island, including the land beneath a Honolulu office building and the ground beneath the headquarters for the West Hawaii Today newspaper. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Waters not conceding to Ozawa in Council race. Former state Rep. Tommy Waters declined Wednesday to concede the race for District 4 of the Honolulu City Council to incumbent Trevor Ozawa. Star-Advertiser.

A Loss For Tommy Waters Is A Loss For Mayor Caldwell. Incumbent Trevor Ozawa’s narrow victory over his challenger blocked the mayor from having a majority of allies on the City Council. Civil Beat.

Trevor Ozawa keeps his city council seat by 22 votes. If you need proof that in an election, every vote counts, look no further than the East Oahu City Council race between incumbent Trevor Ozawa and challenger Tommy Waters. KHON2.

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Avalon Group became the first local developer Wednesday to agree to a city requirement to set conditions that will keep the affordable units in its proposed mixed-use residential and commercial project affordable for 30 years. Star-Advertiser.

HPD Chief: Police Not At Fault In Closing Of Domestic Violence Program. The Domestic Violence Action Center denied Chief Susan Ballard’s contention that their partnership failed because the center couldn’t meet promised quotas. Civil Beat.

HPD’s partnership with a domestic abuse service for victims to abruptly end. Commissioners agreed that the systematic issues should’ve been figured out months ago. Hawaii News Now.

A state agency is getting closer to enforcing a new Hawaii law aimed at a private company charging for parking along several streets in Kakaako long used by the public. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Council shrinks another member. With former Kona Councilman Dru Kanuha officially off the council upon his election Tuesday to the state Senate, and Puna Councilwoman Jen Ruggles not participating in council meetings or legislation because of her concerns about the Hawaiian Kingdom, the nine-member body is effectively down to seven members. West Hawaii Today.

Proposal would give County Council power to censure absent members. Should Hawaii County Council members lose pay if they don’t do their job? Tribune-Herald.

Turnout in Hawaii County for Tuesday’s election was among the lowest in this county’s history as well as the lowest of any county in the state this year. West Hawaii Today.

A plan to develop a veteran’s center across from the University of Hawaii-Hilo was back before the Windward Planning Commission on Wednesday. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Priority No. 1 for Maui County’s mayor-elect: Getting along with his county council. Mike Victorino beat out Councilwoman Elle Cochran by more than 5,000 votes in a hotly contested battle for current Mayor Alan Arakawa’s seat. Hawaii News Now.

After election shakeup, dust begins to settle for new council. Council members-elect downplay 5-4 split between ‘Ohana-endorsed and ‘establishment’ candidates. Maui News.

No leadership overhaul expected at Capitol. Maui County’s state lawmakers eye their roles the upcoming legislative session. Maui News.

Maui’s Justin H. Woodson has secured a house leadership role as one of nine majority whips.  He was also identified as chair of the House Committee on Education under a list released today by House Speaker Scott Saiki. Maui Now.

Voter Turnout Down, Maui at 52%. In Maui County total turnout was 50,475 or 52.2% of the 96,721 registered voters. Maui Now.

Kauai

The End Of An Era For Election Day Polling Places. When the Garden’s Isle’s 14 precinct stations shut down Tuesday night, it might have been for the last time. An all-mail ballot experiment begins in 2020. Civil Beat.

County overwhelmingly votes to keep term limits. Garden Island.

Derek Kawakami, a Kauai county councilman, was elected mayor decisively, 16,797 votes, 65.1 percent, to 7,969, 30.9 percent for Council Chair Mel Rapozo. Garden Island.

The celebrations are over. Now the new mayor of Kauai is ready to get to work. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai mayor-elect seeks applicants to fill new administration. Kauai Mayor-Elect Derek Kawakami has hit the ground running. KHON2.

Felicia Cowden’s campaign party was over by the time she found out she snagged the last seat on the Kauai County Council. Garden Island.

Kauai's New Program for Renewable Energy. Hawaii Public Radio.

Tuesday, November 6, 2018

It's Election Day! No vote, no grumble. Here's what candidates and committees have been up to going down the home stretch, plus everything you need to know about voting in all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2018 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz at Democratic Party rally in Hilo ©2018 All Hawaii News
Lack of hot races suggests turnout might lag. This is one of the most exciting and suspenseful midterm elections in years on the mainland, but a lack of hotly contested local races suggests voter turnout could remain low in Hawaii today. Star-Advertiser.

Early Voting Is Way Up Nationwide, But Not In Hawaii. There’s a lot of drama on the mainland with control of Congress up for grabs. Hawaii’s races hold less suspense. Civil Beat.

Hawaii General Election: 180K Votes Already Cast. Hawaii Public Radio.

Despite easier registration rules, early voting figures remain low. Hawaii’s voter turnout is the lowest in the nation. Hawaii News Now.

Democrats from across the state gathered at Mooheau bandstand Monday evening for their traditional pre-election Grand Rally, where several hundred of the party faithful ate chili, enjoyed entertainment and heard speeches from federal, state and local candidates. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii’s GOP focusing on conservative-leaning districts in battle against blue wave. There are only five elected Republicans in the state. Hawaii News Now.

Advocates rally to push Native Hawaiian voters to the polls. ‘They say Hawaiians don’t vote. We want to prove them wrong.’ Hawaii News Now.

Candidates for Hawaii’s top elected office are focusing on a persistent problem that has only gotten worse: the high cost of housing on the islands. Associated Press.

A coalition of powerful unions, business interests, environmentalists and others has raised $740,000 in its effort to defeat this year’s ballot measure asking voters whether they want to convene a state constitutional convention, according to the latest campaign spending reports filed Monday. Star-Advertiser.

High-Profile PR Firm Is Getting Involved In Hawaii Politics. A company that made a big splash by hiring away public officials has aided the campaigns of the teachers union, an OHA candidate and a Maui super PAC. Civil Beat.

Here’s what you need to know for Tuesday’s Midterm Election. Hawaii Public Radio.

Are you a first-time voter? Here’s all you need to know for Election Day. Polls open statewide Tuesday at 7 a.m. and close at 6 p.m. Hawaii News Now.

Reminders, tips to know before you vote in Tuesday's general election. KHON2.

Election Day Hawaii Information. If you're headed to the polls here are some things you need to know. KITV.

Ride-hailing companies Uber and Lyft both said they will offer discounted rides to the polls in Hawaii on Election Day. Star-Advertiser.

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Some Progress Made on Strike Negotiations. Leaders of the hotel workers union Unite Here! Local 5 met with management of five hotels owned by Kyo-Ya over the weekend to try and bring an end to a four week worker strike. Hawaii Public Radio.

Matson’s earnings surge on tax cuts. Matson Inc. operated on a fairly even keel in the third quarter balancing higher revenue and expenses, but the Honolulu company benefited from lower taxes to boost its profit 22 percent. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Short-term bonds to help fund rail. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell said Monday that his administration will use proceeds from the sale of short-term commercial paper to supply the city’s beleaguered $8 billion-plus rail project with $44 million to show “skin in the game” being required by federal transit officials and the state Legislature. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu To Take Out Short-Term Loan Of $44 Million To Keep Rail Going. This marks the first time that city property tax revenue will be used for the project. Civil Beat.

Mayor Caldwell reveals preferred funding mechanism to secure $44M for Honolulu's rail project. Pacific Business News.

Here’s how the city plans to pay $44M for the rail project. ‘We’re probably taking the safest route, the least painful route.’ Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu unveils latest rail plans. Beginning in January, homeowners on O'ahu will start paying for rail through property taxes. KITV.

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Council committee hobbles sidewalk-clearing bills. Honolulu City Council members are doubling down on their insistence that Mayor Kirk Caldwell submit more detailed reports on how he’s tackling homelessness before they’ll allow him to implement two new sidewalk-clearance laws. Star-Advertiser.

Victim Advocates Withdraw From Partnership with Honolulu Police. The Domestic Violence Action Center will return $400,000 in grants because HPD didn’t use its services when responding to domestic violence calls. Civil Beat.

There's a big increase in crime due to 15 cents bag fee on Oahu, says Retail Merchants of Hawaii. KHON2.

Honolulu will be under increasing risk of flooding and other damaging storm impacts as climate change shifts the historical pattern of hurricane tracks and raises the ocean level to make the islands more vulnerable, according to a study led by researchers at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. Star-Advertiser.

Sales dip, but Oahu home prices rise 4%, Locations report says. Home prices on Oahu rose by 4 percent over the 12-month period that ended Oct. 31, while sales of single-family homes declined by 3 percent, and condominium sales declined by 1 percent, according to a report by Honolulu real estate firm Locations. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Thurston Lava Tube likely to remain closed until 2019. While much of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park has reopened since its historic closure earlier this year, some parts likely will remain closed until at least next year. Tribune-Herald.

Improvements planned for rodeo arena in Honokaa. Honokaa Rodeo Arena will close from Nov. 14-Jan. 14 so improvements to the facility can be made. Tribune-Herald.

Humpbacks arrive fashionably early off Kohala Coast. West Hawaii Today.

The median price of a condominium on Hawaii’s Big Island rose by more than 26 percent last month despite fewer sales, compared to a year ago, while both sales and prices declined for single-family homes, according to statistics provided by Hawaii Information Service on behalf of Hawaii Island Realtors. Pacific Business News.

Maui

Polls will open starting at 7 a.m. Tuesday as voters statewide cast their final ballots for county, state and congressional races. Maui News.

Spending report: Victorino paid D.C.-based media consultant $50K. Cochran’s largest expenditure was just under $3,000 during same period in Maui County mayoral race. Maui News.

Commentary: Win for public’s right to know. The Maui News won an important court battle Thursday when the three psychiatrist/psychologist reports were released by 2nd Circuit Judge Peter Cahill in the Ashley Wellman case. Maui News.

Maui visitor numbers slowed but still up in wake of Olivia. Vistor spending in September also up but only 2nd time this year with less than $400 million. Maui News.

The Kula Forest Reserve, Waipoli access road, Kahikinui Forest Reserve – Papaanui Tract, and Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area reopened on Friday following completion of a two-month project for road repairs, road safety improvements, and fuel mitigation work. Maui Now.

Kauai


An islandwide power outage that struck early Monday afternoon affected all 25,800 Kauai Island Utility Cooperative members. Garden Island.

Kauai Island Utility Cooperative said it has been able to restore power to all of its 25,800 members on the Garden Isle after a trip at its Kapaia Power Station caused an islandwide power outage. Pacific Business News.

Crews from the Department of Public Works finished laying a new sewer pipe at Kuhio Highway and Leho Drive Sunday night and began demobilizing as they wrapped up a days-long effort to repair and clean up a sewage spill and get traffic back to normal. Garden Island.

Single-family home prices on Kauai rise as sales drop. The median price of a single-family home on Kauai rose 6 percent last month, compared to a year ago, as the median price of a condominium dropped 13 percent and sales for both categories dropped, according to statistics from Hawaii Information Service on behalf of the Kauai Board of Realtors. Pacific Business News

Wednesday, October 31, 2018

Hawaii Supreme Court approves Thirty Meter Telescope, with links to concurring, dissenting opinions, property taxes to bail out Honolulu rail, vacation rentals outpace hotels in occupancy increases, what a newsy day! Plus more state and local government and political news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2018 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Tourists view telescopes atop Mauna Kea ©2018 All Hawaii News
Read full Hawaii Supreme Court opinion on Thirty Meter Telescope on Mauna Kea here.

Justice Wilson dissents, notice here.

Justices Pollack and Wilson concurring in part, dissenting in part opinion can be read here.

Supreme Court Approves Thirty Meter Telescope. The ruling says the state Board of Land and Natural Resources properly granted a conservation district permit for Mauna Kea. Civil Beat.

After facing years of setbacks from protests and legal challenges, the Thirty Meter Telescope cleared its last major hurdle Tuesday before the Hawaii Supreme Court. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Supreme Court rules in favor of Thirty Meter Telescope. The Hawaii Supreme Court on Tuesday ruled in favor of the state Board of Land and Natural Resources' decision to issue a conservation district use permit for construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope on the Big Island’s Mauna Kea. Pacific Business News.

The Hawaii Supreme Court has ruled in favor the Thirty Meter Telescope permit, paving the way for the $1.4 billion observatory to build on Mauna Kea. Big Island Video News.

After years of legal wrangling and protests, the Thirty Meter Telescope got a green light Tuesday from the state Supreme Court. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Supreme Court issues ruling allowing TMT to be built on Mauna Kea. The Hawaii Supreme Court has affirmed the state Board of Land and Natural Resources’ decision to issue a Conservation District Use Permit for construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope on Mauna Kea. KHON2.

The Thirty Meter Telescope may be headed for another Mauna Kea showdown after the state Supreme Court ruled in favor of the $1.4 billion project Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

State and county officials led by Lt. Gov. Doug Chin have done extensive planning in recent years to prepare for the possibility of widespread protests in connection with the construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope, and at least some of those plans may involve the use of Hawaii National Guard equipment, according to sources familiar with the preparations. Star-Advertiser.

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Tupola says she told Kerns of debate; Kerns denies it. Republican candidate for lieutenant governor Marissa Kerns said she didn’t attend a televised debate on Monday night because her running mate, Republican gubernatorial candidate Andria Tupola, deliberately failed to inform her that she had been invited. Star-Advertiser.

Republican candidate for lieutenant governor accuses running mate of ‘sabotaging’ campaign. The war of words comes just seven days before the general election. Hawaii News Now.

Candidate claims she wasn't invited to final TV debate. At the KITV 4 gubernatorial debate, we invited Republican and democratic candidates for governor and Lt. Governor, but not all of them showed up. KITV.

Ige Has Raised And Spent Three Times As Much Campaign Cash As Tupola. The Democrat incumbent is financially dominating his Republican challenger in the Hawaii governor race. Civil Beat.

Unions spend heavily against ConCon. Preserve Our Hawaii, a powerful coalition funded heavily by local unions, has spent more than $600,000 in recent weeks on advertising urging residents to vote “no” in the general election on whether to hold a state constitutional convention, campaign spending reports show. Star-Advertiser.

What A New Hawaii ConCon Might Look Like. The Hawaiian renaissance ensured the 1978 constitutional convention would enshrine indigenous rights. A lot has changed since then. Civil Beat.

Akaka, Kiaaina share unique connection as they compete for OHA’s Oahu seat. Both candidates have a close connection to late Senator Daniel Akaka. Hawaii News Now.

The use of vacation rental homes by visitors from Hawaii’s main tourism markets rose in September as hotel use declined, according to data released Tuesday by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Pacific Business News.

Will Kiosks and Robots Replace Hotel Workers? Striking hotel workers in Hawaii and elsewhere, fearful of losing jobs, want a seat at the table as management rolls out disruptive technology. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s visitor industry realized statewide growth in visitor arrivals and spending despite September decreases on the Big Island. Star-Advertiser.

New Guidelines for Rat Lungworm Disease. Two doctors from the UH medical Scholl’s department of Tropical Medicine. Doctors Vernon Ansdell and Gerald Murphy will showcase efforts to deal with Rat Lungworm Disease on a national stage. Hawaii Public Radio.

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Remembering Marine Biology Giant Ruth Gates. Ruth Gates lost her battle with brain cancer last week. She was the director of the Hawaii Institute of Biology and was a champion of coral reefs. Hawaii Public Radio.

Pioneering coral reef scientist Ruth Gates, who dedicated much of her career to saving the world’s fragile and deteriorating underwater reef ecosystems, has died. She was 56. Associated Press.

Ruth Gates, trailblazer in coral reef research, died October 25 after being diagnosed with brain cancer in May, but Hawaii officials and environmentalists say her legacy will live on. Garden Island.

Oahu

Council commits city funds to pay $44M for rail project. The Honolulu City Council on Tuesday approved a measure that allowed, for the first time, money from the city’s general fund to be used to finance the rail. Star-Advertiser.

Rail moves over its latest hurdle as City Council passes key funding bill. The Honolulu City Council voted 7-2 Tuesday to approve a key rail funding bill, in a move to appease demands by the federal government. Hawaii News Now.

Public input sought for Ward Village elevated walkways over main streets. Ward Village’s developer is seeking public input on the design of elevated walkways that would connect a central plaza in the neighborhood to a planned rail station, Ala Moana Beach Park and future condominium towers. Star-Advertiser.

Trace levels of a chemical detected in west Oahu water well. The water remains safe to drink. The Waipahu Wells IV found trace levels of 1,2-Dibromo-3-chloropropane (DBCP), which is a soil fumigant and nematicide used in pineapple farming, in the water. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island


Council Finalists Talk About Homelessness And Housing. Rebecca Villegas and Kelly Drysdale are facing off to represent a district where many workers cannot afford to live. Civil Beat.

County urged to reopen Hwy 132. Puna Councilwoman Eileen O’Hara will introduce a resolution during a County Council meeting Thursday, urging the county to reopen Highway 132 and develop additional alternative routes. Tribune-Herald.

Kilauea Volcano is not erupting, however Mayor Harry Kim has nevertheless signed a Fifth Supplementary Emergency Proclamation, extending the state of emergency until December 29. Big Island Video News.

Big Island residents will be able to view four U.S. Air Force fighter jets Thursday and Friday as the Hawaii Air National Guard conducts training exercises. Tribune-Herald.

The Kona Historical Society on Monday announced a new addition to its Kona Coffee Living History Farm in Captain Cook, a 9-month-old Nightingale by the name of Shizu. West Hawaii Today.

Big Island tourism arrivals, spending dropped 14% in September. Pacific Business News.

Maui

Flights to the mainland, hotel rooms, thousands of dollars worth of meals, rental cars and Uber and Lyft rides are among the hundreds of expenses that state Rep. Kaniela Ing failed to report on his campaign spending reports over the years, according to updated reports he filed over the weekend with the Hawaii Campaign Spending Commission. Star-Advertiser.

Sugimura, Starbuck face off for council seat from Upcountry. On Nov. 6, Maui County Council Member Yuki Lei Sugimura will defend her Upcountry residency seat against first-time candidate Hannibal Starbuck. Maui News.

A former Maui police captain will have to register as a sex offender after groping a female sergeant while on the job last year. Hawaii News Now.

Stephen Orikasa, the former Maui Police captain accused of sexually assaulting a fellow officer was sentenced to one year probation Tuesday.   He must also pay $810 in fines and was ordered to complete the Hawaii Sex Offender Treatment Program. KITV.

The County of Maui Department of Planning invites the public to review technical resource papers and provide input for the update of the West Maui Community Plan. Maui Now.

West Maui Community Plan technical resource papers, focusing on issues such as housing, water and wastewater, are available for public review and input, the county Department of Planning said. Maui News.

Kauai

County Council candidate: Norma Doctor Sparks. Norma Doctor Sparks has spent a lifetime in public service and she wants to continue down that path, which is why she’s running for Kauai County Council. Garden Island.

Kauai Island Utility Cooperative inks energy pact. A Kauai renewable energy project combining solar and pumped storage hydro technology has moved one step further toward completion with the execution of a contract for design, engineering and construction on the facility. Garden Island.

If you use Ke Ala Hele Makalae, Kauai Path wants to hear from you. The nonprofit is conducting an online survey to try and learn what for, how often, and why people use the path by the ocean. Garden Island.

Monday, October 29, 2018

Trump does Tupola no favors, Hawaii GOP struggles to regain power, Leilani lawyers up for lava access, hotel strike simmers, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2018 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Andria Tupola preps for debate with Sherry Bracken  ©2018 All Hawaii News
Trump has Tupola walking a fine line. While Trump is seen as an asset to some mainland campaigns — he has been stumping for his fellow Republicans in places such as Houston and Mesa, Ariz. — political observers say it is a different story in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii GOP’s Best Shot At Winning Something Is A Mililani House Seat. GOP officials desperately want to stop losing seats. They’re already down to five in the 76-member Legislature. Civil Beat.

Commentary: Odd couples sit atop governor, lieutenant governor tickets. Star-Advertiser.

Air bag requirement removed from safety check inspection. A change in your cars safety check requirement has many people happy and others confused, airbags are no longer needed to pass. KHON2.

One state senator wants to get rid of vehicle safety checks. State Senator Maile Shimabukuro started a petition on moveon.org with a question: "Eliminate or modify state vehicle inspections?" KITV.

Bitcoin could worsen global warming, UH study finds. According to a new study by researchers from University of Hawaii at Manoa’s Geography Department, not only could controversial cryptocurrency bitcoin make a noticeable impact; if adopted on a wide scale, its effects on global climate could be catastrophic. Star-Advertiser.

Why The Effort To Curb School Bullying In Hawaii Isn’t Working. The Department of Education has historically opposed legislation, saying its own policies will be sufficient. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Strike may impact dentists’ return for isle convention. With 16,500 registered attendees and guests wrapping up the state’s largest convention of the year in the middle of a hotel workers strike, the American Dental Association left town without committing to another visit — a booking the Hawaii Convention Center typically counts on for Waikiki. Star-Advertiser.

Hotel strike day 21: Noise still ticking off visitors, though some understand. The ruckus is ruining the vacation for some, but not all. Hawaii News Now.

For the first time since the hotel workers went on strike nearly three weeks ago, both sides are talking. Local business owners say they hope the negotiations end with a resolution. KHON2.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority voted this week to give $500,000 to support next year’s U.S. Conference of Mayors, which will take place in Hawaii for the first time in more than 50 years. Pacific Business News.

Condo tower plans boom around Ala Moana rail site. Around 4,000 or more households could be moving into an already dense but mostly commercial area near Ala Moana Center over the next several years as part of a swelling pipeline of high-rise plans by developers. Star-Advertiser.

New Ewa Beach charter school needs to find a home soon. DreamHouse Ewa Beach just earned a major vote of confidence from the federal government in the form of a $567,804 startup grant, but the new charter school still needs to find a home. Star-Advertiser.

Sea Life Park is embarking on a five- to six-year master plan that involves an estimated $30-million redevelopment — the circa-1964 facility’s most ambitious ever. Star-Advertiser.

A major mess on the side of a Kalihi street finally cleared. Illegal dump site on Halona Street sat in plain view for months. Next to the Halona Street onramp to the H-1 Freeway in Kalihi, an illegal dump site has astounded thousands of drivers daily and outraged neighbors. For months, an abandoned flat bed truck, tree trimmings, broken cement blocks, mounds of waste and even a toilet have been left all out in the open. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Every year, representatives of the state’s four county councils get together to draft a wish list of priorities for the upcoming session of the state Legislature. This year, Honolulu has two proposals, Kauai has five, but Hawaii County has just one request — lifeguards for Kua Bay. West Hawaii Today.

Leilani Estates lawyers up: Association to sue county over access issues. An attorney for the Leilani Estates Community Association says the lava-ravaged subdivision will take Hawaii County to federal court over its response to the Kilauea eruption. Tribune-Herald.

Lava Recovery Update, Residents Eye New Access Roads. The Puna community is trying to salvage what it can following the destructive eruption of Kilauea, while the volcano remains relatively quiet. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii Island’s Agriculture Recovery Challenge. The eruption of Kilauea earlier this year destroyed or damaged hundreds of homes. Lava also swept through more than a thousand acres of farmland. Hawaii Public Radio.

Pepeekeo-based medical cannabis provider Lau Ola, LLC has received a Notice to Proceed from the Hawaii Department of Health, paving the way for the company to provide cannabis medicine to patients on the Big Island. Big Island Video News.

Maui

A presidential-style debate between Maui County mayoral candidates Elle Cochran and Mike Victorino, sponsored by The Maui News and the King Kekaulike National Honor Society, will be held Tuesday at the new King Kekaulike High School Performing Arts Center. Maui News.

Arakawa seeks old council seat. Challenger Kama questions his ability to work with council he calls ‘dysfunctional’. Maui News.

NPS offers plan for Kipahulu overcrowding. The cascading Pools of Oheo and 400-foot Waimoku Falls are among the natural wonders awaiting those willing to brave winding Hana Highway to reach the remote Kipahulu District of Haleakala National Park. Star-Advertiser.

New Backcountry Wood Lockers Reduce Need for Helicopters at Haleakala. Maui Now.

Kauai

County Council candidate: Adam Roversi. County Council candidate Adam Roversi is a man of the law. Garden Island.

County Council candidate: Billy De Costa. “State environmental educator” is the most recent chapter in the Pakala-raised teacher’s career. Garden Island.

The Kauai Humane Society’s new executive director doesn’t live on the island full-time, but she does have a strong connection to Kauai. Garden Island.

Monday, August 13, 2018

Hawaii Democrats make up at unity breakfast, Republicans plan next move; analysis of election results; dirty politics in lava district; Maui mayor trails in bid for council seat; more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy photo
Hawaii Democrats unity breakfast, courtesy photo
On The Day After, Democratic Dominance On Display. As always, winners and losers came together in the same room just hours after the primary for the biennial Unity Breakfast. Civil Beat.

Democrats reflect, press on at Unity Breakfast. After months of battling on the campaign trail, Hawaii democrats gathered Sunday morning to break bread and move forward at the party's traditional Unity Breakfast. KHON2.

After a fierce battle in the primaries, Hawaii's Democratic party candidates woke up early Sunday to come together in unity. KITV.

Democrats, Republicans unite to strengthen parties into general election. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Republicans gather with high hopes for the general election. KHON2.

Gov. David Ige swept two-thirds of the House districts across the state on his way to a win over U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa in the Democratic primary election Saturday, with Hanabusa claiming half of the neighbor islands and a sizable portion of Leeward Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Inside Ige’s Political Turnaround — And How Hanabusa Helped Him. Two natural disasters and an opponent whose overconfident campaign tried to run out the clock helped the governor secure a second term. Civil Beat.

Political analyst recaps election night surprises. Some landslide victories in Saturday's primary election - and some surprises, too. KITV.

What Happens to All Those Campaign Signs? Hawaii Public Radio.

Hickam C-17 crews participated in historic N. Korea mission. The three Hawaii-based C-17s flew west days apart and landed at Osan Air Base in South Korea for what would be the rarest of missions. Star-Advertiser.

Last year was the best year in a decade for Hawaii flower and landscape plant farmers, according to a recent report. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Surprise upsets in Honolulu City Council race. In the Honolulu City Council, Trevor Ozawa came out on top for District Four, Carol Fukanaga was the winner in District Six and Heidi Tsuneyoshi took the most votes in District Two, which covers Mililani all the way to Kahaluu. KITV.

State Senator Brickwood Galuteria loses seat in primary election. He represents District 12 which includes Waikiki, McCully and Kakaako. KHON2.

New prosperity envisioned for downtown’s Wo Fat building. What is described as the “most iconic building” in Honolulu’s historic Chinatown district is slated for restoration and return to restaurant use under a plan that also envisions a boutique hotel on the property. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Bad blood in Puna: Ousted councilwoman cries foul. When the dust settled on the Hawaii County Council District 4 primary election race, the final returns showed a political newcomer winning a 20-point landslide as a result of what she called an “aloha-driven, clean, positive campaign” and the ousted incumbent saying it “was anything but that.” Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County Council District 7 race headed for runoff in November. Hawaii’s primary elections were over as of today, but the race for Hawaii County Council District 7 is far from the finish line. West Hawaii Today.

Commentary: Political snits snarl recovery from Big Isle eruption disaster. House Speaker Scott Saiki and Finance Chairwoman Sylvia Luke are out of line in their political bullying of Big Island officials trying to recover from an ongoing volcanic disaster that has crippled a major quadrant of the island. Star-Advertiser.

The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation donated $300,000 to the Hawaii Community Foundation’s Hawaii Island Volcano Recovery Fund. Pacific Business News.

A six-bedroom estate in Kukio Golf and Beach Club recently sold for $18.5 million, the second sale in the exclusive resort community on the Big Island of Hawaii to sell for more than $15 million this year. Pacific Business News.

Maui

Baker’s win came by mail. But home districts also provided strongholds for this rematch from 2014. Maui News.

Home district voters key for Victorino and Cochran. Both candidates want to counter the stereotypes and reach more voters. Maui News.

Voters snub Arakawa in primary election for Kahului council seat. With all but one precinct reporting, mayor trails, but assured place in general election. Maui News.

A controversial new seawall in West Maui is starting to take shape. The project is moving forward after a judge denied an injunction to block construction late last month. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Congratulations and a shared desire for the well-being of Kauai were on tap at the Democratic Unity Breakfast, held at the Kauai Veterans Center on Sunday afternoon, as about 70 candidates and supporters gathered to celebrate the successes of the party. Garden Island.

There May Be No Stopping Derek Kawakami’s Mayoral Campaign. Meanwhile, a political newcomer emerges in the County Council race on a day when some of the island’s few voters were inspiring. Civil Beat.

Sunday morning the fifth and final printout for Hawaii’s primary 2018 primary elections was released, solidifying who is moving on to campaign for November’s general election. Garden Island.

Families that harvest salt from salt beds in Kauai fear current conditions in the unincorporated community of Hanapepe and climate change are threatening their important cultural practice. Associated Press.

Lanai

Air Charter Service Offered at Four Seasons Resort Lanai. Tourism executives say guests of the resort can now bypass airport waits and enjoy private daily air charter service from Honolulu’s Daniel K Inouye International Airport to Lanai City on one of two Pilatus PC-12 Lanai Air two-pilot aircraft operated by Mokulele Airlines. Maui Now.