Supreme Court won't hear B&B appeal denying gay couple, city council wants to evacuate Honolulu Hale, Southwest Airlines lands inaugural flight, taxpayers lose in failed Kauai dairy farm, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu Hale ©2019 All Hawaii News

Supreme Court rejects Hawaii B&B owner who denied room to gay couple. The justices on Monday are leaving in place Hawaiian state court rulings that found the Aloha Bed & Breakfast in Honolulu violated Hawaii’s anti-discrimination law by turning the couple away. Associated Press.

Buyer Beware: Oceanfront Homes Keep Going Up Despite Rising Seas. Now, Hawaii lawmakers are considering bills that force sellers to tell prospective owners about vulnerable coastal properties. Civil Beat.

Swell pushes up surf to monster levels, keeping coastal homeowners on edge. Surf on the North Shore could get as high as 40 feet on Monday, and meteorologists say coastal flooding remains a threat. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii film tax credit cap under fire at Capitol. Estimated claims for these state rebates last year jumped to $90 million from $55 million the year before. Now, a restraint on the subsidy is facing heavy pushback at the Legislature. Star-Advertiser.

Creating A Better Life For Hawaii’s Developmentally Disabled. Gov. Ige has proposed spending $7.7 million to overhaul the state DD program, which includes offering clients more opportunities for jobs and setting goals for themselves. Civil Beat.

Excessive prison time still a mess for inmates. Officials with the state Department of Public Safety concede that in 2018 they released nine inmates after realizing they had been incarcerated beyond their scheduled release dates. Star-Advertiser.

=====

Southwest makes its inaugural flight to the islands. The discount carrier’s inaugural flight, appropriately numbered 6808, came from Oakland International Airport to Daniel K. Inouye International Airport on Sunday. Star-Advertiser.

Southwest begins much-anticipated service to Hawaii. The plane landed at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport at 3:09 p.m., and passengers received lei and were greeted by Hawaiian music and hula. Hawaii News Now.

Southwest Airlines inaugural flight touches down to big Aloha welcome. KHON2.

A historic moment for Southwest Airlines as its first passenger flight touched down at the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport Sunday afternoon. KITV.

Hawaiian Airlines plans to add an additional daily flight to San Francisco in the fall. Associated Press.

Oahu

Honolulu Council likely relocating offices to Alii Place. With or without Mayor Kirk Caldwell and his administration, Honolulu City Council members want to relocate themselves and the rest of the legislative branch to the Alii Place tower downtown from Honolulu Hale by the end of the year. Star-Advertiser.

Federal investigation, funding issues increase risk for rail bidders. The federal investigation that has cast a new cloud over the city’s rail project may also complicate efforts by the Honolulu rail authority to solicit companies for a public-private partnership to finish the 20-mile rail line, observers say. Star-Advertiser.

Investigators from the city Department of the Prosecuting Attorney raided three businesses and arrested two people Friday as part of a crackdown on Honolulu brothels operating as massage parlors and relaxation spas. Star-Advertiser.

Judge Orders Release Of More Records In Case Of HPD Officer Who Beat Girlfriend. But it’s unclear when the public will actually get to see the files. The police union has promised to appeal. Civil Beat.

Long time local newspaper reporter Burl Burlingame has died. He'd been a newspaper writer for more than 35 years. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

A bill that would allow only four wheel drive vehicles into Waipio Valley is advancing through the state Legislature. The trip down the Waipio Valley Access Road – a dangerous drive for unfamiliar visitors – could soon be more tightly regulated under a proposed bill moving through the Hawaii State Legislature. Big Island Video News.

More police officers for Kona: Chief talks new hires at chamber Focus Luncheon. Police Chief Paul Ferreira told a crowd Friday at the Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce Focus Luncheon that his office has requested two crime scene evidence technicians for Kona’s detective division, which is currently bereft of any such positions. Police have also requested in the upcoming budget an extra sergeant for Kona, as well as two sergeants each for the North Kohala and South Kohala districts. West Hawaii Today.

Group eyes $12M West Hawaii veterans center. With an estimated 16,000-17,000 veterans on the Big Island, half of whom reside in West Hawaii, the West Hawaii Veterans Council Inc. hopes to get underway in 2021 the first phase of construction of the facility that would provide veterans, veterans groups and the community alike with much-needed gathering space. West Hawaii Today.

Puna distance learning center bill clears committee. Senate Bill 457, introduced by Sen. Russell Ruderman, would provide funding for four full-time positions, as well as studies, plans and construction, for a distance learning center tied to the University of Hawaii and Hawaii Community College. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

A California startup plans to begin test flights of a hybrid electric aircraft between Kahului and Hana later this year, technology that could eventually prove a “game changer” for interisland carriers like Mokulele Airlines. Maui News.

360,000 Visitors to Molokini is Concerning. New evidence suggests that some marine predators are being displaced by high human use at the Molokini Marine Life Conservation District, which in 2018 attracted more than 360,000 snorkelers and divers. Maui Now.

Growing taro in hard places is just the challenge for farmers like Bobby Pahia. Wide variety of crops being produced on 310 acres in Waikapu. Maui News.

W.S. Merwin, a prolific and versatile poetry master who evolved through a wide range of styles as he celebrated nature, condemned war and industrialism and reached for the elusive past, died March 15, 2019, in Haiku, Maui. He was 91. Associated Press.

Kauai

Ballots have been mailed out for Kauai Island Utility Cooperative’s Board of Directors Election. Three seats are up for election in March with the deadline to vote being March 23 at noon, and the three candidates are all incumbents — Calvin Murashige, Peter Yukimura and Jan TenBruggencate. Garden Island.

Private investment firm Ulupono Initiative lost a lot of money on its recently aborted plan to establish a dairy on Kauai, but so did local taxpayers thanks to a tax credit crafted by state lawmakers. Honolulu-based Ulupono received $875,000 in state tax credits under a 2008 law that created incentives for landowners to preserve prime farmland for agricultural use in perpetuity. Star-Advertiser.

Baby bison from South Dakota helping replenish Kauai herd devastated by flooding. Hawaii News Now.

Interisland fares drop as price wars continue, state Senate bill bans plastics, red light cameras catch on, Public Safety director faces confirmation battle, Maui jail in lockdown following riot, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaiian Airlines main cabin ©2019 All Hawaii News

Hawaiian Airlines matching Southwest fares means lower prices for interisland flights. Hawaiian Airlines dropped airfares Monday to as low as $98 for round-trip flights between Oahu and Maui starting in April as competition from Southwest disrupts the interisland market — at least temporarily. Star-Advertiser.

Boeing 737 Max 8 used for Hawaii flights. A number of countries have grounded their Boeing 737 Max 8 planes following Sunday's deadly crash of an Ethiopian Airlines flight. We found out Air Canada uses the Max 8 on its flights from Honolulu to Vancouver, Canada. KHON2.

=====

Senate Passes Bill To Ban Certain Single-Use Plastics. A bill that prohibits the purchase, use, sale, or distribution of plastic beverage bottles, utensils, stirring sticks, polystyrene foam containers, and straws by state and county agencies has passed out of the Hawaii State Senate and is now in the House of Representatives. Big Island Video News.

Proposal to install cameras that catch red light runners gaining steam. In an effort to make Hawaii roadways safer, the state Senate is supporting the installation of cameras at intersections to document and cite drivers who run red lights. And now the House Transportation Committee is holding a hearing on the idea later this week. Hawaii News Now.

A proposal to install cameras to catch red-light-runners, has widespread support from the community and it is rolling through, at the state Capitol. KHON2.

Gov. Ige’s Re-Appointment Of Public Safety Director Is Meeting Resistance. A key senator says it’s still “an open question” whether the nomination of DPS director Nolan Espinda will clear the full Senate. Civil Beat.

Cost to transport, house Hawaii inmates on the mainland is skyrocketing. Hawaii taxpayers spent almost $2 million last year to move prisoners back and forth from Saguaro Correctional Center in Arizona. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Kaneshiro’s paid leave approved by his appointee. The decision to pay Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney Keith Kaneshiro his full $170,712 annual salary and benefits while he is on leave during a federal corruption investigation was made by the man Kaneshiro appointed to replace him. Star-Advertiser.

Attorney says he'll subpoena police chief to testify against Kaneshiro. Police Chief Susan Ballard could provide key testimony against prosecutor Keith Kaneshiro if an impeachment trial takes place. KHON2.

New Hearing Date Set For Kaneshiro Impeachment Petition. Judge Jeff Crabtree held a hearing on a petition created by businessman Tracy Yoshimura calling for the impeachment of Kaneshiro. Hawaii Public Radio.

City attorney to help hammer out how process for impeachment petition works. Hawaii News Now.

Shining Sunlight On The Honolulu Police Chief’s Performance. In contrast to past practice, the police commission solicited input from a wide range of groups and the chief OK’d releasing the details of her annual review. Civil Beat.

When it comes to the ex-police chief’s legal defense, things just got more complicated. Last week, Honolulu attorney Kevin Sumida appeared before the Honolulu Police Commission for a contested case hearing over whether city taxpayers should pay for the defense for Louis Kealoha, the former police chief. Hawaii News Now.

Lieutenant who investigated financial crimes pleads guilty to tax charges. A Honolulu Police Department lieutenant who investigated financial crimes for decades pleaded guilty Monday to three counts of filing false and fraudulent tax returns. Hawaii News Now.

No jail for retired HPD officer accused of tax fraud. A former Honolulu police officer pleaded guilty Monday to filing fraudulent statements with his state income tax returns but as part of a plea agreement is not expected to spend any time behind bars. Star-Advertiser.

=====

Portlock property owner plans to fight city. The landowner at the center of the Portlock gate controversy said he plans to fight the city’s move to establish a public beach path over his property. Star-Advertiser.

Ala Moana Beach Park users voice concerns on city planned park changes. For years now, the City and County of Honolulu has been planning to make some changes and upgrades to the "People's Park," but not everyone is happy about the latest ideas being floated. KHON2.

No dog park. No “world-class playground.” And no changes to parking. That was the overwhelming sentiment of attendees at a community meeting Monday on the future of Ala Moana Regional Park, known as the “people’s park.” Hawaii News Now.

Cheers and jeers during Q&A meeting over proposed changes at Ala Moana Regional Park. Residents for and against changes to the park pack McCoy Pavilion to talk with city officials. KITV.

Dredging of Nuuanu Reservoir preceded flood of muddy water into thriving stream. The Board of Water Supply had been dredging its largest reservoir in Nuuanu since January before it opened its floodgate last month, emptying millions of gallons of water into the Nuuanu Stream. Hawaii News Now.

City officials Monday held a blessing ceremony for Honolulu’s newest off-leash dog park, at Aala Park. Star-Advertiser.

Dog park a draw at one of Honolulu’s most problem-plagued public spaces. Hawaii News Now.

Off-leash dog park now open in Chinatown. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

A series of projects to curb albizia growth along county roadways are awaiting additional funding before they can be completed. The Big Island Invasive Species Committee recently completed most of a project to eradicate the invasive albizia trees lining five miles of the Puainako Street extension. Tribune-Herald.

Contractor given go-ahead for Alii Drive culvert replacement project.  Isemoto Contracting has been given the go-ahead to begin preparation work for a year-long project to replace a culvert on busy Alii Drive. West Hawaii Today.

Honokaa Improvements Include Rodeo Arena, Mamane Street. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Maui Community Correctional Center remains on lockdown Tuesday morning, hours after a riot and standoff at the facility ended. Officials said the situation — in an inmate module — was resolved about 6:26 p.m. Monday. Hawaii News Now.

A disturbance by inmates in a module at the Maui Community Correctional Center has been brought under control. Star-Advertiser.

Maui Police Respond to Disturbance at MCCC. Maui Now.

Disturbance at Maui Community Correctional Center under control. KHON2.

=====

First Deputy Corporation Counsel Edward Kushi has taken over management of the Department of the Corporation Counsel while department head Patrick Wong is on administrative leave, Mayor Michael Victorino announced on Monday. Maui Now.

County plans to turn over Wong case to state AG. Maui police working to collect evidence, complete investigation. Corporation Counsel Patrick Wong, 53, was placed on administrative leave Saturday after being arrested on physical abuse charges. Maui News.

State will handle domestic abuse case against Maui County’s top civil attorney. The physical abuse case against Maui County’s top civil attorney will be turned over to the state Attorney General’s Office to investigate, Maui Mayor Mike Victorino said Monday. Hawaii News Now.

=====

The Maui Food Bank’s stocks are running low following a spike in demand during the federal government shutdown and the usual rush of the holiday season. Maui News.

Proposed improvements at Iao Valley State Monument that include a new entry, water and sewer system upgrades and expansion of parking areas will be discussed at a meeting from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday at the Velma McWayne Santos Community Center in Wailuku. Maui News.

Kahului Ranks in Top 10 Hottest Secondary Home Markets in Nation. A new study from financial technology company, SmartAsset, uncovered the hottest secondary home markets nationwide, and a section of Maui ranked in the eighth spot. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kauai is still waiting for Southwest Airlines to announce flights into Lihue Airport, and airline representatives say that will happen soon. Garden Island.

While laysan albatross chicks on Kauai are just about to starting to outgrow their nests, 25 of their cousins are getting used to something new far from their own birthplaces — about 1,300 miles away, according to researchers who recently translocated a group of black-footed albatross chicks from Midway Atoll to the James Campbell National Wildlife Refuge on Oahu. Garden Island.

Ozawa-Waters rematch election set, Hawaiian Airlines reports $233M profit, telescope opponents take fight to California, DHHL bribery scandal hits Kauai, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Trevor Ozawa, Tommy Waters campaign photos

A rematch between Trevor Ozawa and Tommy Waters to represent Honolulu City Council District 4 is set for Saturday, April 13. Hawaii News Now.

Ozawa-Waters rematch scheduled for April. The “all mail” election for the District 4 City Council seat will be mailed out March 21, city Clerk Glen Takahashi said Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Ozawa-Waters Rematch Coming Up April 13 In City Council District 4. Gov. David Ige and election officials announce plans for the special election after the November results were invalidated by the Supreme Court. Civil Beat.

Honolulu City Council District 4 Special Election Dates Announced. Hawaii Public Radio.

Residents from Hawaii Kai to Waikiki mark your calendars, the special election for the open Honolulu City Council District 4 seat will be held on Saturday, April 13th. KITV.

Gov. David Ige issued a special proclamation for a special election as required by state law.  KHON2.

=====

Gabbard’s Claims Of ‘Religious Bigotry’ Draw Cheers From The Right. A $1.5 million ad campaign from a group that wants to stack the courts with conservative judges features the Hawaii congresswoman’s recent attacks against Senate Democrats. Civil Beat.

Gabbard denies her presidential campaign is in ‘disarray’ after online report. Hawaii News Now.

Disaster planning to be required for new condos. A new bill by state Representative Cynthia Thielen, co-signed by Representative Gregg Takayama, would require new condominiums to create disaster preparedness plans before the beginning of next year. KHON2.

Hawaiian Airlines reports $233M profit in 2018. Higher fuel prices, increased competition, aircraft delivery delays, the Kilauea eruption and severe weather events didn’t prevent Hawaiian Holdings Inc. from carrying the most passengers of any year ever or surpassing analyst’s expectations. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

A veteran Honolulu police officer was placed on administrative leave Tuesday after he shot and killed a 51-year-old Ewa Beach man who apparently sped his vehicle toward the officer at a traffic stop in Kalihi. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Police Fatally Shoot Man Who Drove Toward Officer. The suspect was pulled over early Tuesday near Kamehameha Shopping Center for a traffic violation. Associated Press.

Ancient Hawaiian site in Kalaeloa threatened. On Oahu’s arid Ewa plain, amid a kiawe tree forest, remnants of an ancient Hawaiian settlement are a cultural treasure anchoring a heritage park. Star-Advertiser.

Driver of truck that plowed into group of pedestrians, killing 3, faces manslaughter charges. Alins Sumang, the 27-year-old driver accused of hitting the pedestrians in a traffic island, is believed to have been speeding and was likely under the influence of alcohol when he struck the pedestrians. Hawaii News Now.

Fatal crash highlights pedestrians’ vulnerability. At a time when private developers and public policymakers are encouraging people to leave their cars behind and hit the streets on foot, Hawaii pedestrians likely have never felt more vulnerable. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu and Molokai public libraries to close February 7 for Library Institute Day. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Leaders of a fight against building a giant telescope on Mauna Kea are in California trying to convince a financial backer of the project to withdraw support. Associated Press.

Bill seeks ambulances for Makalei, Puna areas. West Hawaii Today.

A wastewater force main that ruptured in 2017 sending sewage into Kailua Bay will soon be replaced, if the County Council approves a measure increasing the cost to $1.7 million. West Hawaii Today.

Digital kiosks allow quick vehicle registration renewals at Safeway stores across Hawaii. West Hawaii Today.

Kulana Foods’ decision to cease slaughter of small animals concerns some ranchers. Tribune-Herald.

Interactions between humans and honu in the waters off Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park have become more complicated as the protected species grow in numbers. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Maui Has 26% of State’s Visitor Accommodation Units. Maui has the second highest percentage of visitor accommodation units in the state according to a new 2018 Visitor Plant Inventory Report filed by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Maui Now.

The Maui Police Department reports that its forensic facility currently has five unclaimed remains. Maui Now.

A training exercise is planned this Thursday, Jan. 31, 2019 in Central Maui for members of the Hawaii National Guard, Maui police officers and state and county firefighters. Maui Now.

Haleakala’s Pan-STARRS offers lots more space data. ‘World’s largest digital sky survey’ available for public and astronomers. Maui News.

Tech entrepreneur to speak at February Maui TechOhana. He created concept of YouTube Channels. Maui News.

Kauai

Engineer’s bribery scandal involves awarding of lucrative DHHL contract. Jim Lyon, owner of the Honolulu-based company Lyon Associates, pleaded guilty last week to conspiracy charges in the alleged bribery scheme. Multiple sources say the bribe helped land a $2.5 million DHHL engineering contract on Kauai. Hawaii News Now.

The Department of Parks and Recreation has installed blue light bulbs in public bathrooms at some parks to discourage illicit drug use and loitering. Garden Island.

A lottery for a rare hunting opportunity on Kauai is coming up. The Department of Land and Natural Resources is opening a special session from April to August to track down feral goats in the Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park. Hawaii News Now.

The humpback whale calf found dead on Kekaha Beach Monday didn’t die of starvation and it wasn’t killed by sharks, according to Researchers from the Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology’s Marine Mammal Stranding Lab. Garden Island.

A little, fuzzy chick has hatched in Princeville, signaling the beginning of that area’s Laysan albatross chick season and hailing the incoming of many more seabird babies throughout the North Shore. Garden Island.

Psychiatric hospital employees cleared in killer's escape, state shorted in federal funds, CIO stepping down, pilot rescued in military 'Sentry Aloha' crash, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii road construction ©2018 All Hawaii News

Hawaii only state shut out of federal DOT grants. The federal Department of Transportation will disburse some $1.5 billion to fund 91 infrastructure projects around the country — none in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

State information chief Todd Nacapuy resigning at year’s end.  Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s Chief Information Officer Is Stepping Down. The state’s top technology official, Todd Nacapuy, was appointed by Gov. David Ige in 2014. Civil Beat.

=====

Hawaii State Hospital workers cleared in killer’s escape. The Hawaii State Hospital employees who were put on paid leave and suspected of possibly helping dangerous psychiatric patient Randall Saito make an infamous escape to Maui and California using cash and fake identifi­cation have been cleared and face no discipline, state officials announced Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

State Hospital Employees Won’t Be Disciplined For Patient’s Escape. Attorney General Russell Suzuki said no employee aided Randall Saito in the killer’s 2017 escape, but that hospital security was lax. Civil Beat.

State Hospital Staff Cleared of Wrongdoing in Randall Saito 2017 Escape. Hawaii Public Radio.

No state employees disciplined after investigation into admitted killer’s escape. Hawaii News Now.

State concludes no Hawaii State Hospital employee responsible for Randall Saito's escape. KHON2.

AG investigation concludes Hawaii State Hospital staff did not assist escapee Randall Saito. The AG and the Hawaii Department of Health held a press conference Wednesday to discuss the closure of investigation of Randall Saito’s escape from Hawaii State Hospital. KITV.

=====

Pilot rescued after small military training plane crashes off Oahu. Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam officials said in a statement that the jet was being operated by a civilian contractor flying in conjunction with the Hawaii Air National Guard’s “Sentry Aloha” exercises, which are scheduled through Dec. 19. Star-Advertiser.

Military exercises to resume as officials investigate cause of offshore fighter jet crash. Multiple agencies will meet Thursday morning to determine who will handle the investigation and salvage efforts following a fighter jet crash off Honolulu that seriously injured a pilot. Hawaii News Now.

Pilot Survives After Plane Crashes Into Ocean Near Honolulu Airport. The pilot was a civilian contractor for the Hawaii Air National Guard taking part in an exercise called Sentry Aloha. Associated Press.

=====

Hawaiian Airlines to offer cheaper seat option starting in 2019. Starting 2019, a fourth tier will be added: the addition of Main Cabin Basic. It's a bare-bones version: no ticket changes or standby; seats are assigned after check-in, and though you can earn HawaiianMiles, travelers who choose this option will not be eligible for bonus miles. KHON2.

The owners and officers of a Japanese-flagged fishing vessel were charged Tuesday with smuggling and trafficking 962 shark fins into and out of Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Ag tech and resource management offer opportunities for Hawaii-Israel collaboration. When it comes to agricultural technology and resource management, Hawaii is finding a partner in collaboration nearly halfway around the world. West Hawaii Today.

Oahu

Honolulu Police Corruption Probe Now Includes Katherine Kealoha’s Brother. A federal grand jury continues to expand its investigation, now delving into prescription pain medications that were seized during a 2015 drug raid. Civil Beat.

Prosecutor Keith Kaneshiro is free to disclose that he is a target of a federal investigation into government corruption and owes it to the people who elected him to do so, several criminal defense attorneys told the Honolulu Star-Advertiser Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Experts: Kaneshiro Can Talk About Federal Investigation If He Wants To. There’s no rule that prohibits Honolulu’s elected prosecutor from telling the public whether he is the target of a Justice Department probe. Star-Advertiser.

=====

Private Guards Help Keep The Homeless From Camping In Parks. Calling it a success, Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell is extending a program in which the guards shuttle between nine parks. Civil Beat.

First of its kind renewable gas facility opens on Oahu. The purpose is to turn sewage into energy and hopefully eliminate the need for nearly 15,000 barrels of oil per year. KITV.

Opening of Hawaii’s first Daiso in Pearl City draws hundreds. The 5,000-square-foot Japanese discount store at the Pearl City Shopping Center is the first of three or four planned on Oahu by HouseMart, the parent company of Ben Franklin Crafts and Ace Hardware, which has an exclusive licensing agreement to open Daiso stores in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

The county Board of Ethics is trying to add teeth to what has historically been a paper tiger, more than a decade after the County Council gave it authority to fine public officials who violate the ethics code. West Hawaii Today.

A Kalapana woman is headed to jail for failing to complete court-ordered community service stemming from a 2017 case of vandalism atop Maunakea. West Hawaii Today.

It’s not often that Hawaii Island gets to hear directly from top United States Cabinet officials when major legislation gets a vote in Washington D.C., but that’s what happened on Wednesday as Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue took questions on the passage of the 2019 Farm Bill. Big Island Video News.

Progress continues on the new Puna Kai shopping center in Pahoa, which is set to open next fall, months after original plans intended. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Central Maui’s inland sand in decline. Off-island exports have fallen since 2006, report says. Nearly 2 million tons of sand have been removed from Central Maui since 2006, leaving it either depleted or very soon to be depleted and unable to replenish the island’s beaches that need some 158,000 tons of sand, according to a new study released Tuesday on sand availability in the county. Maui News.

Council takes no action after day of public testimony.  Nearly 50 people testified before the Maui County Council on Tuesday during a meeting that featured a packed agenda, including more funding for the Wailuku civic complex and bills to construct a parking lot in Kihei and relating to sand mining. Maui News.

Planning panel rejects Paia Inn permit, again. The Maui Planning Commission voted once more to deny a hearing officer’s report and special use permit for the Paia Inn, a decision that Paia Inn attorney Terry Revere said was expected to be appealed in circuit court. Maui News.

A Zipline company in Haiku and the County of Maui have reached an agreement to end a dispute over permits and subsequent notices of violation. Maui Now.

County agrees to allow zipline to continue. Haiku neighbors plan to file suit to block operation. Maui News.

Kauai

Erosion sets back beach, road work. An ongoing million-dollar project to fix Weke Road and the surrounding Black Pot Beach Park area is already starting to erode now that the winter’s big swells have arrived. Garden Island.

County officials are reminding the public that the solid waste staging area located at Kepuhi Point is open on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Garden Island.

U.S. Agriculture Secretary Perdue tours Kilauea lava flow, campaign started to impeach Honolulu prosecutor, dairy industry suffering, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

U.S. Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue, Twitter

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue was in Puna Tuesday, where he toured the damage from Kilauea Volcano alongside Hawaii Department of Agriculture Chairman Scott Enright and several local ag producers. Big Island Video News.

Once-Thriving Hawaii Dairy Industry Is On The ‘Brink Of Extinction’. There used to be 160 dairies in Hawaii. Only two remain, and one plans to close, meaning Hawaii could end up importing all of its milk. Civil Beat.

Ed Case backs Nancy Pelosi for House speaker. Ed Case, who is set to be sworn into Congress on Jan. 3, is supporting U.S. Rep. Nancy Pelosi’s bid to be speaker of the Democratic-controlled House of Representatives. Star-Advertiser.

Governors from throughout the nation’s west on Tuesday came together for a talk on biosecurity as well as the potential for interstate collaboration on preventing and combating invasive species. West Hawaii Today.

Will increasing the fine for drivers who don't stop for pedestrians save lives? Council Member Ron Menor wants the State to double fines for drivers who don't stop for pedestrians. KHON2.

Investigators to release long-awaited probe into admitted killer’s State Hospital escape. More than a year after an admitted killer escaped from Hawaii State Hospital and jumped on a plane for California, the state has completed an investigation into the incident. Hawaii News Now.

No One Is Speaking Up For Hawaii’s Renters. There is no organization dedicated to advocating for the rights of tenants, and a new study finds they lose nearly every eviction case. Civil Beat.

Why Has Wall Street Punished Hawaiian Airlines? The high-flying growth of Hawaii’s largest private employer has slowed recently thanks to storms, volcanos, increased competition and lower fares. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Campaign to impeach city prosecutor launched as he shows no signs of stepping aside amid federal probe. Kaneshiro has made no moves to step aside, prompting some to look into the impeachment process. Hawaii News Now.

Former Honolulu city prosecutor calls for Keith Kaneshiro to quit or be impeached. KITV.

The City Prosecutor’s Office on Tuesday declined to say whether three top prosecutors who reportedly have been linked to an ongoing federal investigation of government corruption have taken leave or are still on the job. Star-Advertiser.

Neighborhood Opposes Cemetery Expansion. Longtime Kaneohe resident Rich McCreedy has opposed the expansion plan of Hawaiian Memorial Park Cemetery. Hawaii Public Radio.

City to close parts of a Chinatown park that’s become a haven for the homeless. The city is shutting down parts of Aala Park for maintenance from Wednesday through mid-January. Hawaii News Now.

A new, privately owned public park in the urban core of Honolulu is set to open Friday ahead of a state-mandated deadline, and it will debut in the holiday spirit with a high-tech display of lights. Star-Advertiser.

Niu Valley Middle School teacher Zachary Morita hopes to inspire students statewide by creating a musical Olympics with the $100,000 grant he won through the Dream Big Teacher Challenge. Star-Advertiser.

Lambchop, a Hawaiian monk seal who was a more than 30-year resident of Sea Life Park, died Tuesday from a sudden decline in health from age-related kidney disease, according to a statement released by the park. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu condo sells for record $23.5 million. Coldwell Banker Pacific Properties announced Tuesday that it represented a buyer who paid $23.5 million for one of three “grand penthouse” units at the Park Lane Ala Moana condo. Star-Advertiser.

Park Lane Ala Moana grand penthouse sells for $23.5M (Slideshow). Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Puna Geothermal Venture was given the go-ahead to restore road access to its lava-locked property. Tribune-Herald.

Police say a woman shot by officers Tuesday morning on Kahakai Boulevard in Hawaiian Beaches subdivision brandished a rifle despite being ordered by police to drop the weapon and was wanted an arrest warrant. Tribune-Herald.

Woman fatally shot by Big Island police after pointing rifle at officers. Hawaii News Now.

A District Court judge Tuesday doled out a plethora of community service hours to a group of hikers cited for trespassing after they were swept away amid flash flooding, prompting a daring, hours-long rescue last month at Anna’s Pond. West Hawaii Today.

Future patients and the public on Tuesday evening got a chance to glance inside Kona’s first ever medical marijuana dispensary, owned and operated by Hawaiian Ethos. West Hawaii Today.

Mortgage delinquencies on Hawaii's Big Island grow after Kilauea eruption. The number of mortgages in some stage of foreclosure in Hawaii declined slightly in September, as the number mortgages facing some form of foreclosure on the Big Island grew following the eruption of Kilauea volcano, according to a new report by CoreLogic. Pacific Business News.

Maui

Maui County Managing Director Keith Regan has been appointed chief administrative officer for the Hawai’i Tourism Authority. The announcement from the authority says that Regan will begin work Monday. Maui News.

Mayor-elect Mike Victorino announced his appointees for chief of staff, managing director and 11 department directors on Monday afternoon — a slate which included five current directors and the deputy director of the state Department of Land and Natural Resources. Maui News.

Workers from Ono Construction LLC install sections of roofing on the South Maui Community Park Recreation Center late last month. Construction of the long-awaited gymnasium is on target to be finished next spring. Maui News.

Kauai

The public is advised that a portion of Puolo Road in Hanapepe will be closed for reconstruction work, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., on Dec. 13, weather pending. Garden Island.

The U.S. Missile Defense Agency successfully intercepted an intermediate-range ballistic missile in a live-fire test Monday night from the Aegis Ashore Missile Defense Test Complex at the Pacific Missile Range Facility. Garden Island.

New tourism chief named, data breach at Marriott, Supreme Court won't reconsider Thirty Meter Telescope ruling, Hawaiian Airlines opening mainland tech office, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaiian Airlines at Honolulu airport ©2018 All Hawaii News

Isle tourism still pacing ahead of 2017. The Hawaii Tourism Authority reported Thursday that total arrivals in October rose 4.4 percent year-over-year to 770,359. Star-Advertiser.

Former hotel housekeeper and executive is tapped to lead HTA. A former hotel housekeeper, who went on to become a top Marriott hotel executive, will be the first hotelier ever to lead the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Star-Advertiser.

Chris Tatum named new CEO of Hawaii Tourism Authority. Tatum, the area general manager at Marriott International in Hawaii, was elected by the tourism agency’s 12-member board on Thursday. Pacific Business News.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority’s board of directors on Thursday unanimously confirmed the appointment of longtime tourism executive Chris Tatum as its new president and CEO. Garden Island.

Massive, extended data breach at Marriott’s Starwood hotels. The information of as many as 500 million guests at Starwood hotels has been compromised and Marriott said that it’s discovered that unauthorized access to data within its Starwood network has been taking place since 2014. Associated Press.

Marriott announced Friday a hack of its Starwood guest reservation database system. The hack potentially affects the information of up to 500 million guests. Reuters.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority has allocated nearly $3.6 million in funding to support 130 programs in 2019 that it says “perpetuate Hawaiian culture, protect natural resources, and showcase community events.” Star-Advertiser.

=====

Ige Spent $3.2 Million On Re-Election Campaign, New Reports Show. The incumbent governor, who won in a landslide, spent spent six times as much as his Republican challenger. Civil Beat.

Ige to be sworn in to second term next week. After winning his re-election bid earlier this month, Gov. David Ige is set to be sworn in for his second term next week at the rotunda in the state Capitol. Hawaii News Now.

Governor seeking team players. Gov. David Ige and Lt. Gov.-Elect Josh Green are recruiting qualified and dedicated individuals who are interested in working for state government in various positions across Hawaii. Garden Island.

Lieutenant Governor-Elect Plans Homelessness Strategy. After fourteen years in the State Legislature, Dr. Josh Green is going to be sworn in as Lieutenant Governor next Monday. Although many consider the Lieutenant Governor’s job to be minimal — change of name, IDs and marriage licenses and such — Green has big plans. Hawaii Public Radio.

In ‘game-changer,’ Hawaii given approval to use Medicaid dollars to help chronically homeless. Hawaii is one of the first states in the country given the go-ahead to use federal Medicaid dollars — typically reserved for health care costs — to help homeless people move into housing. Hawaii News Now.

=====

Gabbard’s New Hampshire trip marks possible presidential run. Hawaii Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard is scheduled to speak Sunday to progressive Democrats in New Hampshire as part of a series of discussions with prospective Democratic presidential candidates, a further indication that she is indeed looking at running for the Oval Office in 2020. Star-Advertiser.

A presidential run for U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard? Her travel schedule hints at the possibility. KITV.

2018 Central Pacific hurricane season wraps up today. The 2018 Central Pacific hurricane season officially ends today. However, a developing El Nino could potentially fuel some offseason action. West Hawaii Today.

A destructive 2018 Hawaii hurricane season comes to a quiet end. Hawaii News Now.

The 2018 Central Pacific hurricane season set a record. Forecasters call the year "unprecedented" with six tropical cyclones. KITV.

Marijuana might reverse heart failure, University of Hawaii study finds. Alexander Stokes, assistant professor in cell and molecular biology at the UH John A. Burns School of Medicine, said the potential medical benefits of cannabis to treat heart disease are promising. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines to open IT center in Arizona. Hawaiian Airlines said Thursday it will open a technology center in the Phoenix area in the first quarter. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu City Council: "No" to Franken Poles. The Honolulu City Council is putting the brakes on a proposal to improve cellphone coverage and generate millions in non-taxpayer revenue. Hawaii Public Radio.

Honolulu Council to take up emergency measures for building permits. A resolution urging Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s administration to implement emergency procedures to help with building permit delays passed the Honolulu City Council’s Zoning and Housing Committee, a day after the mayor announced initiatives to speed up the permit process. Pacific Business News.

A Plan To Keep Homeless Offenders Out Of Jail In Honolulu. Police and the prosecuting attorney’s office are still deciding what nonviolent crimes qualify the homeless to participate in a diversion program. Civil Beat.

After years of legal wrangling, judge dismisses Kealohas' civil suit against city Ethics Commission. A judge has dismissed a years-long case against the city Ethics Commissions, brought by ex-Police Chief Louis Kealoha and his wife, a former deputy prosecutor. Hawaii News Now.

Aloha Stadium upgrade plan moves forward. The process of determining a successor to Aloha Stadium will enter its most significant phase in more than five years next month, when work on a stadium master plan and environmental impact statement is scheduled to commence. Star-Advertiser.

Palehua Windfarm Announced for Leeward Oahu. Over Thanksgiving week Hawaiian Electric announced it reached an agreement to purchase power from Eurus Energy America. The company will build and operate a windfarm on Palehua Ridge above the existing fossil fuel powerplant. Hawaii Public Radio.

Huge swell saves homes threatened by erosion, changes beaches. The biggest swell of the season has come and gone with another one on the way next week. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii Supreme Court Will Not Reconsider TMT Ruling. With the exception of changes to some footnotes in the original order, the Hawaii Supreme Court on Thursday denied a motion for reconsideration filed by the petitioners in the case of the Thirty Meter Telescope planned for Mauna Kea. Big Island Video News.

Find Hawaii Supreme Court opinions on the Thirty Meter Telescope issue here and here and here.

Tourism sluggish in Volcano. The reopening of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park has brought visitors back to nearby Volcano, but perhaps not as quickly as some expected. Tribune-Herald.

Lava checkpoints nixed: Last two manned barriers will be removed next week. Hawaii County will remove its remaining checkpoints on roads in lower Puna next week, but some restrictions may still apply for nonresidents entering Leilani Estates. Tribune-Herald.

Private company plans lava viewing area in Puna. The public could soon have authorized — and unauthorized — access to see firsthand the aftermath of Kilauea Volcano’s Puna eruption. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Board on Geographic Names received three name proposals to rename fissure 8. The board plans on giving a status report in the next seven to 10 days. KITV.

Hawaii island mayor honored for keeping community safe. He was named a Homeland Heroes Mission Awardee by the Government Technology & Services Coalition's Homeland Security Today for his ongoing efforts during Kilauea's latest eruption. KHON2.

The Mokupapapa Discovery Center was filled with concerned fishermen on Wednesday night, who wanted to know more about a study that looks at possible non-commercial fishing regulations. Big Island Video News.

Marni Herkes dies after long illness. A tireless community volunteer best known for her long service as the chamber’s executive director died recently, leaving behind a legacy of civic-minded engagement. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Audit critical of liquor department and commission. Lack of transparency, ‘arbitrary’ rules among issues raised. Maui News.

The Hawaii Commission on Water Resource Management has adopted instream flow standards for Kahoma and Kanaha streams in West Maui. Maui Now.

Age of utility scale solar has begun on Maui County. Projects in Lahaina, Kihei blessed with larger ones on horizon. Maui News.

Two large scale solar farms were blessed on Maui in separate ceremonies on Wednesday in Lahaina and Kihei. Maui Now.

Workers at the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa in Kaanapali will be returning to their jobs today after going on strike Oct. 8, according to a union official. Maui News.

Kauai

Kawakami names cabinet. Mayor-elect Derek Kawakami announced plans Thursday to replace a number of county government officials, including Managing Director Wallace Rezentes, who will now serve as deputy director of parks and recreation. Garden Island.

Kauai visitors spending more. Kauai welcomed 103,089 visitors in October, up 2.4 percent from October 2017, according to the Hawaii Tourism Authority’s report released Thursday. Garden Island.

A Kauai elementary school became first DOE school to serve taro. This is part of Aina Pono, the Hawaii State Farm to School Program. KITV.

Organic farm next to Facebook CEO's Kauai property on the market for $23M. A Kauai farm that grows organic ginger and turmeric and is adjacent to land that Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg recently acquired to add to his Hawaii holdings is on the market for sale for $22.95 million. Pacific Business News.

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

SIG Pro semi-automatic pistol PC:Augustas Didzgalvis

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

=====

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Oahu

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hawaii Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Maui

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

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

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

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

Kauai

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

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

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