President Trump makes Hawaii fuel stop today, Airbnb hosts could remain secret, state pension fund makes gains, hunt for dangerous escaped mental patient moves to Maui, leaky boat off Waikiki slow to be salvaged, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania at USS Arizona Memorial, Nov. 3 pool photo, Associated Press.

President Donald Trump is expected to stop over at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam for an Air Force One refueling stop Tuesday morning en route to Washington D.C. following a 12-day trip to Asia. Star-Advertiser.

President Donald Trump will be in Hawaii again Tuesday. Trump is scheduled to leave the Philippines Monday night and arrive at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Tuesday morning. KHON2.

President Donald Trump headed for home today following an extensive tour of Asia that he said had been “tremendously successful” and had put the world on notice that the “rules have changed” for countries that want to trade with the U.S. Associated Press.

State need not identify Airbnb hosts. The proposed agreement that Gov. David Ige’s administration has been negotiating with Airbnb to collect taxes on vacation rentals would not allow the state to disclose rental property owners’ names or rental locations to the city for enforcement purposes, according to an Airbnb representative. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s largest public pension fund, playing catch-up on its $12.44 billion shortfall, started the new fiscal year on a strong note as its investments rose 3.3 percent in the July-September quarter. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Employee Retirement System Up $3B. The ERS serves 135-thousand members in the state and county, which represents nearly 10 percent of the population. Hawaii Public Radio.

Appeals Court Allows Partial Enforcement Of Trump Travel Ban. But it cannot be enforced against people with “bona fide” relationships with individuals or groups in the U.S. Associated Press.

Man With Hawaii Roots On Verge Of Top Border Enforcement Post. Kevin Kealoha McAleenan is already acting commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection and enjoys bipartisan support. Civil Beat.

Measures in place to keep guns out of the wrong hands, but do they work? Last year alone, more than 21,000 people applied for gun permits statewide, and the crosscheck thwarted more than 300 attempts to get gun permits by applicants who were denied for a broad range of disqualifying offenses. KHON2.

Experts discuss ways to increase Hawaii's EV adoption rate, see growth opportunity among heavy-duty vehicles. Pacific Business News.

Nevada’s ‘Most Dangerous’ Inmates Move In With Hawaii Prisoners. The private Saguaro Correctional Center in Arizona says the new prisoners will be fenced off and separated from the 1,400 Hawaii inmates. Civil Beat.

Island Air files for Chapter 7 liquidation. Island Air has filed a motion to convert from Chapter 11 bankruptcy to Chapter 7. KITV.

Whether Island Air’s 423 employees get paid for their last 10 days of work will be up to a Bankruptcy Court trustee. Star-Advertiser.

Scoot, the low-cost, long-haul subsidiary of the Singapore Airlines Group, is launching Hawaii service next month with a promotional one-way fare of $80 from Honolulu to Osaka, Japan, and a $200 one-way fare from Honolulu to Singapore. Star-Advertiser.

Study of data from 1970s, ’80s reveals climate changes affecting native birds. Tribune-Herald.

Climate change is affecting the food supply of Hawaii's native and non-native bird species. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hokulea continues its mahalo tour with more stops across the state. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Hawaii's head marshal forced to retire amid special treatment allegations. Sources say the Department of Justice launched an investigation in 2016 after Miyamoto drove the city prosecutor and a deputy police chief into the basement of the federal building to avoid the media. Hawaii News Now.

Taxpayer-funded lawyer assigned to Katherine Kealoha in corruption trial. Hawaii News Now.

The Coast Guard announced a new plan Monday that aims to remove the 79-foot fishing boat stranded off Waikiki within 2-1/2 weeks, weather permitting. Star-Advertiser.

Spilled fuel, hundreds of hooks in Waikiki waters as boat remains stuck. Hawaii News Now.

Coast Guard: Could be 2.5 weeks before Kaimana vessel is removed. KITV.

State seeks developer for Pawaa project. A state agency hopes to attract competitive bids from developers interested in building a low-income rental apartment tower along with a juvenile shelter and service center on state land in Honolulu. Star-Advertiser.

The University of Hawaii at Manoa has been singled out for a national award for its success in raising its four-year graduation rate. Star-Advertiser.

UH Manoa recognized for increase in four-year graduation rate. KHON2.

Concerns are growing over limited street parking in Waikiki. Some residents say the City is continuing to let businesses buy up parking spots, leaving them with fewer options. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii entrepreneur and venture capitalist William K. “Bill" Richardson died on Friday. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

This is probably news to most Big Island tenants, but, according to the federal government, rental costs here have dropped. West Hawaii Today.

A Hawaii Island commission has officially named its “top ten”; an annual priority list of potential land-acquisitions using a fund derived from two percent of the county’s real property taxes. Big Island Video News.

A project to widen 2.8 miles of Mamalahoa Highway in Waimea hit a roadblock Thursday when Hawaii County canceled the bid solicitation after one of the bidders protested the procurement process, claiming it was unfair. West Hawaii Today.

The Thirty Meter Telescope has entered into a contract with Coherent Inc., a provider of lasers and laser-based technology, to polish its U.S. manufactured primary mirrors, marking a major production milestone. Big Island Now.

The Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home in Hilo could get boost from federal legislation being championed in Washington by Hawaii Senator Mazie Hirono. Big Island Video News.

A major retailer has clarified how much Kona coffee is in a line of California-made, cold-brew coffee beverages that drew a complaint from a Kona coffee farmer association last month. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

Sunscreen containing certain chemicals could be banned in Maui County after a bill to eliminate the potentially harmful products was recommended for approval by a Maui County Council committee Monday. Maui News.

Levee repairs underway. Heavy equipment operators work Thursday afternoon on the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers project to repair 4,000 linear feet of Wailuku levees damaged by flooding of Wailuku River in September 2016. Maui News.

Maui Police Department has confirmed a Hawaii State Hospital patient who escaped from the facility has boarded a plane and flew to Maui. Hawaii News Now.

Manhunt Expands to Maui for Dangerous Escapee. The manhunt has spread to Maui for a man who has spent decades in the Hawaii State Hospital. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kauai’s first voluntary marine protected area is now at Koloa Landing, meaning that divers and fishermen have agreed not to remove aquarium fish and eels from the reef. Garden Island.

Hotel working with county. In August, the county Planning Department issued violations to Hanalei Bay Resort for illegal dwellings and insufficient parking. Garden Island.

Hawaii scientists prepare for sea level rise, Ige girds for gubernatorial battle, public transportation use drops, Maui school bus shortage reaching resolution, Kaui seeks landfill site, builder backs out of $734M Big Island affordable housing project, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

King tide floods Queen Liliuokalani Gardens in Hilo, photo: K.t. Cannon

Scientists say the sea is rising faster than first thought. At a public information meeting Thursday evening, the prognosis was mostly grim from the scientists working on a report in conjunction with the state Department of Land and Natural Resources. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources presented a draft Sea Level Rise Vulnerability and Adaptation Report to a room of about two dozen people. When completed, the report will be submitted in anticipation of the 2018 Hawaii State Legislature. Big Island Video News.

Another round of king tides rolls in, setting record high sea levels. Hawaii News Now.

King tides make appearance on Oahu. KHON2.

Gov. David Ige plans to ramp up his political fundraising efforts to raise $1 million before the end of the year to prepare for what could be a bruising Democratic primary next year. Star-Advertiser.

Compared to several years ago, the number of people using public transportation is dropping. That’s according to a study that finds the pattern to be true on the mainland—and also here in Hawaii. Hawaii Public Radio.

State resumes reviews of child fatalities. For a few years, Hawaii had the dubious distinction of being the only state — or possibly one of two — that did not regularly review child deaths. Star-Advertiser.

Will More Nurses in Hawaii Schools Help Keep Kids In Class? The Legislature provided $2.8 million to expand the Hawaii Keiki program, which places nurses in schools. Civil Beat.

With a new school year kicking off, some parents say they aren’t fans of state guidelines based on federal recommendations, that let kids found to have ukus, or head lice, return to school right after treatment has started. West Hawaii Today.

A major ocean cargo carrier has announced plans to expand operations to Hawaii, in a move that could significantly increase the state’s fleet of container ships. But whether new competition will reduce shipping costs – and ultimately the cost of goods for consumers – isn’t clear. Civil Beat.

Army officials have spent days sifting through chunks of Black Hawk helicopter debris in turbulent Pacific waters off Hawaii but have yet to see any signs of life in their search for five soldiers missing since the aircraft crashed during nighttime training on Tuesday. Associated Press.

Oahu

The developer of the latest Ala Moana-Kapiolani area high-rise in need of permits from the Honolulu City Council will bring along a unique feature — its own senior affordable rental building. Star-Advertiser.

The Kahala Hotel &Resort, which last week withdrew a controversial request to use the public shoreline fronting the hotel for commercial enterprises, has now said it will not resubmit the request unless all stakeholders agree. Star-Advertiser.

An 81-year-old retired librarian, who had been trapped in her Marco Polo condo on the 32nd floor during the July 14 inferno, died 20 days later. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

An Ohio company that won a state award to develop a $734 million Hawaii island affordable-housing project has pulled out of the deal, leaving the mostly unbuilt community’s future in limbo after more than $20 million invested by the state. Star-Advertiser.

A senior housing facility and veterans center at least a decade in the making is closer to coming to fruition. Tribune-Herald.

The replacement motor for the Honokohau Deepwell does not work. Back to the drawing board as five wells remain out of service in Kona. Big Island Video News.

Event draws pot patients, professionals: Many dismayed with status of marijuana dispensaries. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Some Lahaina routes restored. Driver shortage down to 11 as Roberts, DOE engage in public battle over school bus woes. Maui News.

Welcome Hokulea. Famed voyaging canoe makes Maui first stop on ‘Mahalo’ sail around state. Maui News.

Reef at Olowalu now a ‘hope spot’. The goal is to bring awareness, support to places Mission Blue deems “critical to the health of the ocean” Maui News.

The Maui County Department of Parks and Recreation announced that both Waihe‘e Beach Park and the driving range at Waiehu Golf Course have been closed due to hazardous trees along the park driveway and driving range. Maui Now.

Emergency Rescue: Endangered Sea Turtle Nest on Maui Relocated. Maui Now.

Kauai

Has Kauai Finally Found A Site For A New Landfill? After a decade of effort, the county has located a preferred site for a new $65 million facility. But the plan will likely face NIMBY opposition. Civil Beat.

Researchers encountered something new off the coast of Kauai during an 11-day August field project — a probable hybrid between a melon-headed whale and rough-toothed dolphin. Garden Island.

Those involved in the Lehua Island rat eradication project are meeting with members of the community one-on-one instead of holding a community meeting to answer questions. Garden Island.

The water at Hanalei Bay Landing, known as Hanalei Pier, still has a high amount of bacteria and officials recommend staying out of the water in that area until at least Tuesday. Garden Island.

Activists angered by proposed Waipouli path. Garden Island.

Ige says he can beat Hanabusa, Muslim files civil rights lawsuit against Hawaiian Telcom, Merrie Monarch participants can't stay overnight at gyms, gun range measure passes, artist fights to keep airport mural, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaiian monk seal, Kaimana, NOAA

New photos of Kaimana, the Hawaiian monk seal removed from Waikiki, show her doing just fine on her own. Hawaii News Now.

Gov. David Ige says he can beat Hanabusa in a potential 2018 match-up. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Gov. David Ige Talks Schools. The governor is pleased with the selection of the new superintendent, but says he played no role in her selection or the ouster of her predecessor. Civil Beat.

Close to 1,000 students enrolled at the University of Hawaii’s community colleges stand to benefit from a new state-funded scholarship designed to eliminate cost as a barrier to higher education. Star-Advertiser.

An Iranian-born Muslim has filed a federal civil rights suit against Hawaiian Telcom, saying he was fired on the basis of his national origin, race and religion. Civil Beat.

Letter spurs Fukumoto to urge GOP to change. State Rep. Beth Fukumoto says she’s hoping to turn a personal attack she recently received through a profanity-laced letter from a self-­proclaimed supporter of President Donald Trump into a teachable moment. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii State Department of Education said Thursday that progress is being made by school bus contractors to address the shortage of commercial driver licensed drivers on Kauai and Maui qualified to operate school buses. Garden Island.

The Hawaiʻi State Department of Education reports that progress is being made by school bus contractors to address the current shortage of Commercial Driver Licensed drivers on Maui and Kauai. Maui Now.

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The parent company of interisland cargo carrier Young Brothers Ltd. intends to launch a new shipping service between the mainland and Hawaii that would go head-to-head with two existing competitors that bring the vast majority of goods to the state. Star-Advertiser.

New shipping company to enter U.S.-Mainland-Hawaii trade route. TOTE, a transportation and logistics company, is entering the Hawaii market. Pacific Business News.

New competition is on the way for shipping between the Mainland and Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

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The U.S. Coast Guard said Thursday it was now searching up to 50 miles off Hawaii for five soldiers missing after their Black Hawk helicopter crashed during nighttime training. Associated Press.

Crews find 'significant' wreckage, but no sign of 5 on downed chopper. Hawaii News Now.

The search for the missing five crew members of an Army UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter has expanded to 50 miles from the shore due to “swift and dynamic currents” in the area, Coast Guard officials said today. Star-Advertiser.

Increasingly worried family members Thursday identified a second crew member of the five missing from an Army Black Hawk helicopter that went down at sea off Kaena Point on Tuesday night as an urgency was added to the search-and-rescue mission now entering its fourth day. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

The 10-member board overseeing the Honolulu Rail Project met today to consider actions it needs to take following a public information hearing Monday on additional funding for the 8.2 billion dollar project. Hawaii Public Radio.

City Councilman Ernie Martin wants the Honolulu Police Commission to speed up its search for a new police chief, and he suggests the hiring process “should be shortened by choosing the new chief from one of the qualified leaders currently serving in the department.” Star-Advertiser.

Nonprofit groups that clean up beaches, parks and trails are being told they can’t dispose of their trash at most refuse centers, even though those are open to residents. Civil Beat.

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Internationally renowned marine artist Wyland is fighting Hawaiian Airlines over the future of two murals he painted 18 years ago on the Airport Center building on Ualena Street. Star-Advertiser.

Marine life artist Wyland is locked in a legal battle with Hawaiian Airlines over the ownership of two Hawaii whale murals the artist painted nearly 20 years ago on the sides of an office building owned by the airline near Honolulu International Airport, and said the airline has threatened to begin painting over the murals as soon as Friday. Pacific Business News.

Well known Hawaii artist Wyland is in a battle with Hawaiian Airlines over the potential removal of two landmark murals near the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. KITV.

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After community outcry from unhappy residents and business owners, the city is scaling back the curb extensions in Chinatown. Hawaii News Now.

It has been less than two months since Biki – Honolulu’s bike sharing business launched. And now, a car sharing business is set to launch in Kaka‘ako by the end of the year. Hawaii Public Radio.

Honolulu has been named the most livable city in the U.S. and one of the top 20 worldwide, according to a new report. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Big Island Mayor Harry Kim has informed the Merrie Monarch Festival it no longer will be allowed to house halau competing in the festival’s hula competition to stay in county gymnasiums. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii County Mayor has alerted Merrie Monarch Festival organizers that overnight stays at county gyms is now prohibited. Hawaii News Now.

The county Game Management Advisory Commission is shooting for a quick solution to the lack of gun ranges on the island. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County Department of Water Supply believes it can restore service to the Honokohau Deepwell by some time early next week. West Hawaii Today.

Repair and reinstallation work on the Honokohau Deepwell will continue through the holiday weekend, water supply officials report. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Mutual insurance company Sentry has agreed to a five-year deal with the PGA Tour to become the title sponsor of the Tournament of Champions golf event at Kapalua Resort on Maui. Pacific Business News.

Famed voyaging canoe Hokulea makes Maui first stop on ‘Mahalo’ sail around state. Maui News.

Hokulea Stops at Olowalu Reef, Announced as “Mission Blue Hope Spot” Maui Now.

While some progress was reported Thursday in easing suspended public school bus services on Maui, the battle for public opinion escalated. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai lawmakers aren’t entirely in agreement on a proposal to tax neighbor islands to pay for the Honolulu rail project. Garden Island.

Connecting the Ke Ala Hele Makalae coastal path from Kapaa Town to Lydgate Park is a step toward the project’s full vision, according to organizers. Garden Island.

Hokulea begins statewide mahalo tour, red flags in Honolulu rail audit, Maui police say cams justify actions during telescope protest, marijuana dispensaries reopen, census to count Micronesians, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hokulea farewell stop at Hilo Bay © 2017 All Hawaii News

Hokulea, the traditional Polynesian canoe replica left Sand Island on Wednesday afternoon for Maui’s Honolua Bay, kicking off its “Mahalo Hawaii” statewide sail. Star-Advertiser.

The Mahalo, Hawaii sail kicks off this afternoon, and the Polynesian Voyaging Society has a lot to mahalo. For most of its 40 plus years in existence, PVS has been a small budget operation until now. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hokulea set off on a brand new voyage Wednesday afternoon. The canoe left O'ahu bound for the Valley Isle in what's being called its 'Mahalo, Hawai'i Sail.' KITV.

The Hokulea departed the Marine Education Training Center at Sand Island today, Aug. 16, to begin the six-month Mahalo, Hawaii Sail. Maui Now.

Hokulea’s arrival at Honolua Bay today will mark the start of the voyaging canoe’s Mahalo, Hawai’i Sail and kick off a weekend of events celebrating the canoe’s return after a three-year world tour. Maui News.

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Two federal agencies announced Wednesday that they will conduct a census of Micronesians living in Hawaii and three island territories. Civil Beat.


A Joint Legislative Committee conducted another informational hearing on Affordable Housing today. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii is facing a crisis because of a lack of affordable housing. So lawmakers met with a number of developers to find out what they can do get construction going. KITV.

Days after of running out of supply due to high demand, the state's two medical cannabis dispensaries have reopened. Hawaii News Now.

State revives program to review child deaths, inspire changes to reduce them. KHON2.

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The search for five crew members from an Army Black Hawk helicopter that went down off Oahu’s Kaena Point on a nighttime training mission stretched into a second night Wednesday as the Coast Guard remained on the scene and soldiers held out hope that the missing would be found. Star-Advertiser.

A multi-agency team scoured the ocean off Hawaii on Wednesday for five soldiers aboard an Army helicopter that went down during a nighttime training exercise. Associated Press.

After more than 30 hours, the massive air and sea search continues for five missing soldiers who were on board an Army chopper that crashed late Tuesday off Oahu. Hawaii News Now.

Two pilots and three crew members were on board an Army helicopter that crashed off Hawaii. Associated Press.

Search and rescue crews from the U.S. Coast Guard, Army, Honolulu Fire Department, and Ocean Safety have entered their second day in looking for a downed Army UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter approximately two miles west of Kaena Point, Oahu, Thursday. KHON2.

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A state representative is speaking out after receiving a strongly worded, vulgar letter from a person who she says is a self-proclaimed Trump supporter. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii Medical Service Association reported net income of $6.3 million for the quarter ending June 30, a 48 percent decrease from 2016’s comparable period, which saw net income of $12.3 million. Pacific Business News.

Depending how the legal fight over Abigal Kawananakoa’s $215 million fortune turns out, the 91-year-old princess’s foundation could enter the pantheon of Native Hawaiian trusts that today wield tremendous wealth and power on the islands. Civil Beat.

Scholarship money from the Office of Hawaiian Affairs will be going only to students at the University of Hawaii system this academic year, officials said. Associated Press.

Gov. David Ige will provide opening remarks at the 2017 Hawaii Annual Code Challenge (HACC) Kickoff on Aug. 26, welcoming hundreds of anticipated computer programmers, software developers and tech-minded innovators to launch the four-week, hackathon-inspired competition. Garden Island.

Hawaii’s household debt per capita was $68,500 in 2016, the highest among the 50 states but lower than the District of Columbia, according to the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. Pacific Business News.

According to data released by the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism, international students had an estimated direct, indirect and induced impact of $484 million during academic year 2017. This is 25 percent less than 2016, when international students contributed $649 million. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii’s nonprofit arts and culture sector is a more than $200 million industry, according to a study released by Americans for the Arts. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Auditor says probe of rail agency raised ‘red flags.' While he found no evidence of fraud while conducting an audit of the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation last spring, “the red flags were there” to suggest there may have been. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council's Budget Committee on Wednesday approve a resolution calling for a follow-up audit of the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation, whose management was slammed by a similar audit last year. Hawaii News Now.

Smaller units, more housing, less space. That's the idea behind a new micro-unit apartment building proposed for Kakaako. Hawaii News Now.

A state board overseeing development in Kakaako is one step closer to overhauling its affordable-housing production requirements after a hearing Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Concrete removal mixed with high tides lead to brown water in Waikiki. The water near the Duke Kahanamoku statue raised concerns from environmentalist and beach goers this week after murky clouds were seen just off shore. Hawaii News Now.

Servco Pacific Inc. and Toyota have partnered to launch a smartphone-controlled car rental service in Honolulu. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

The Kailua Village Design Commission Tuesday deferred taking action on a proposed four-story hotel on Henry Street after commissioners raised concerns about the building’s color scheme and topography of the area where it would be built. Tribune-Herald.

Former police officer pleads no contest in road rage incident, receives 6 months probation. West Hawaii Today.

The Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel will become The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort next year after Mauna Kea Resort LLC signed a franchise agreement with Westin Hotels &Resorts. West Hawaii Today.

Officials with the Hawaii Electric Light Company gave a presentation to the Hawaii County Council’s Agriculture, Water & Energy Sustainability Committee on Tuesday. Big Island Video News.

Maui

A preliminary review of police body camera footage during a protest against a convoy of telescope materials headed to the Haleakala summit shows officers followed procedures and acted properly, Police Chief Tivoli Faaumu said Wednesday. Maui News.

The county water department’s call for voluntary water restrictions Upcountry moved into its fourth week this week with the department reporting Wednesday that “there has been no noticeable decline in consumption overall.” Maui News.

Kauai

The state is looking into a mysterious, tar-like substance reported in the tidepools on the eastern side of Mahaulepu. Garden Island.

Hokulea homecoming celebrations continue, universal basic income studied by Legislature, anti-aging drug begins trials, Maui sugarmill sale begins, Honolulu lobbyists spent $200k, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Greeting Hokulea in Honolulu, courtesy Hokulea crew

No modern navigation instrumentation guided a Polynesian voyaging canoe as it followed the horizon during a three-year journey around the globe. On Saturday, thousands welcomed double-hulled canoe Hokulea home to Hawaii when it entered a channel off the island Oahu and tied up to a floating dock at Magic Island. Associated Press.

Hokulea homecoming celebrations continued on Sunday, one day after thousands welcomed home the voyaging canoe. Hawaii News Now.

Hokulea is home, but its mission continues. The Malama Honua Summit kicked off Sunday -- highlighting the world-wide voyage. KITV4.

Three-quarters of the world’s inhabitants, including those living in Hawaii, will be exposed to deadly heat waves by the end of the century unless greenhouse gases are not substantially reduced, according to a study published today in Nature Climate Change. Star-Advertiser.

A resolution adopted by the Legislature last session calls for a “basic economic security working group” to study universal basic income. Civil Beat.

The National Institute of Health has chosen a compound developed by a Hawaii-based business for an anti-aging research program. Hawaii News Now.


Hawaii spends slightly more on each public school student than the national average each year but far less on general administration than the national norm, according to a new report from the Census Bureau. Star-Advertiser.

The state Department of Taxation’s new computer system has generated so many complaints from taxpayers and raised so many concerns among lawmakers that the Legislature this year stepped in to halt the flow of new funding into the project. Star-Advertiser.

Rear Adm. John Fuller will relinquish command of Navy Region Hawaii and Naval Surface Group Middle Pacific at 1 p.m. Friday to Rear Adm. Brian Fort. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate dropped to 2.7 percent in May, a decline of 0.4 percentage points from 3.1 percent in May 2016. Pacific Business News.

About 49,000 Hawaii Medical Service Association members covered by small-business health insurance plans will see an average 2.1 percent rate hike July 1, the smallest increase since 2012. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Companies spent more than $200,000 to sway Honolulu’s elected officials last year, according to lobbying reports filed with the city Ethics Commission in January. Civil Beat.

 The state Department of Transportation has ended its agreement with the Department of Public Safety to have deputy sheriffs handle law-enforcement duties at the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, and state Sen. Will Espero is questioning whether the move is payback for a lawsuit filed by the sheriffs’ union to block the state’s new contract with a private airport security firm. Star-Advertiser.

A landowner’s plan to develop 29 lots in the heart of Haleiwa town won its first approval from the City Council last week, and a community hearing is likely next for the contentious project. Star-Advertiser.

A developer calls it Serenity Gardens, but community reaction to a cemetery planned in a residential Kaneohe neighborhood has not been calm or soothing. Star-Advertiser.

The most expensive homes on Oahu are in the neighborhood of Kāhala. And the priciest ones of all are on Kāhala Avenue, a street of some changes over time. Hawaii Public Radio.

Winners of the Make the Ala Wai Awesome contest were announced Saturday at the opening ceremony of the World Youth Conference at the Hawaii Convention Center. Hawaii News Now.

The Honolulu Police Department and the city Prosecutor’s Office have seen an increase in their domestic violence caseloads in recent years but without a corresponding increase in successful prosecutions, a report released last week by city Auditor Edwin Young concludes. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Renters and owners of second homes, especially those in West Hawaii, are about to feel the sting of changes the County Council made to Mayor Harry Kim’s proposed property tax hikes. West Hawaii Today.

Time could be running out for The Villages at Aina Lea. After more than a quarter-century of false starts and litigation, all work at the South Kohala site has been ordered again stopped and Hawaii County has notified developer, Aina Lea Inc., it plans to start the county process of reverting the land’s zoning “to its original” (unplanned) or a “more appropriate designation.” West Hawaii Today.

The state Department of Transportation’s reconstruction project on Saddle Road is nearing completion. Tribune-Herald.

A contested case hearing on whether to let a proposed 306-unit timeshare development in Kahaluu move forward is unlikely to get resolved this year. West Hawaii Today.

Recent sewage leaks and high bacteria counts along the Keaukaha shoreline are the topics of discussion at this community meeting Thursday night. Big Island Video News.

When the Big Island Invasive Species Committee’s field crew heads out to take samples from ohia trees, no news is good news. Tribune-Herald.

Following the recommendation of Hawaii County inspectors, the state Department of Land and Natural Resources has made the decision to close Pagoda Hilo Bay Hotel immediately and vacate the hotel. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

An inspection for potential buyers of the former Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Co.’s processing plant will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday. Maui News.

A Lahaina Department of Public Works crew defied its supervisor following September’s torrential rains and flooding and risked further environmental damage from brown-water runoff, the department’s former chief of field operations and maintenance charges in her federal whistleblower lawsuit filed this week against Maui County. Maui News.

Kaiser Permanente Hawaii plans to spend more than $50 million on three Maui County hospitals as the biggest privatization effort in state history finally comes to fruition following a one-year delay. Star-Advertiser.

Having adequate doctors, access to services for non-Kaiser Permanente members and the possibility of reopening adolescent mental health services were some of the issues brought up during a public meeting Friday. Maui News.

The Maui County Council approved the 49-unit Makila Kai project in Launiupoko on a 6-2 vote Friday. Maui News.

The county Department of Water Supply has announced the winners of its eighth annual Water Conservation Poster Contest and of its first Source Water Protection Video Contest. Maui News.

Experts say elder abuse is happening in all settings. Conference focuses on signs of a problem, prevention tactics. Maui News.

Kauai

Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. sent the upcoming year’s budget back to to the council unsigned. Garden Island.

Kauai County Council Chair Mel Rapozo will give an overview of the county’s fiscal year 2017-18 budget at the Lihue Business Association meeting, 7:30 to 9 a.m. Thursday at Duke’s Canoe Club. Garden Island.

The Kauai County Council will host the annual Hawaii State Association of Counties conference Monday and Tuesday at the Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu. Garden Island.

The public has a chance to hear about the new approach to recreational water quality in a meeting set for 6 p.m. Wednesday at the Kauai District Health Office Conference Room in Lihue. Garden Island.

Kauai residents are grateful for Tropic Care services. Between Monday and Wednesday, 1,661 patients visited the clinics, and Tropic Care provided 8,015 procedures. Those numbers already surpass those from last year, said Lauren Guest, public health preparedness planner for the Hawaii State Department of Health. Garden Island.

Poll shows Ige, Schatz, Takai in lead, super PAC money influencing local races, Honolulu council rethinks property tax hike, Apple to get high-paid teaching job, Cachola fined for campaign spending violations, 2 Hokulea crew flown for medical aid, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

David Ige, Neil Abercrombie © 2014 All Hawaii News

With barely a week to go before the primary election, state Sen. David Ige has a double-digit lead over Gov. Neil Abercrombie in the race for the Democratic gubernatorial nomination, a new Civil Beat poll shows. A majority of Hawaii voters surveyed statewide, or 51 percent, who say they will vote in the Democratic primary said they would vote for Ige, compared with 41 percent for Abercrombie. Just 8 percent said they are undecided.

U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz appears to have stretched out his lead over U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa, according to the latest Civil Beat Poll. The survey of likely Democratic voters shows Schatz with a 49 percent to 41 percent edge on the congresswoman. Poll results also show Hawaii Rep. Mark Takai is now the frontrunner in a seven-way free-for-all for the Democratic nomination in the state’s 1st Congressional District.

Lt. Gov. Shan Tsutsui raised significantly more than his top challenger, state Sen. Clayton Hee, in the last month, but Hee holds the edge in available cash for the final stretch of the campaign. Star-Advertiser.

Political upsets are rare in Hawai’i and incumbent candidates, especially at the Congressional level, don’t usually lose to lesser- known challengers. Hawaii Public Radio.

This week Hawaii is presenting its own initiative on addressing climate, sustainability, renewable energy and natural resource management at the 45th Pacific Islands Forum, an annual gathering of more than 300 delegates from 16 independent and self-governing Pacific states with the stated goal of stimulating economic growth and enhancing governance, security and cooperation in the region through policy advice. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii residents need a household income of $122,175 in order to be happy, the largest dollar amount in the nation, according to a new study by Nerdwallet.com. Star-Advertiser.

2 seek medical attention as Hokulea, Hikianalia arrive in Cook Islands. KHON2.

Oahu
Candidates in two Honolulu City Council races are complaining about large sums of money being spent to defeat them by independent expenditure committees, also known as "super PACs," that are not limited by traditional campaign laws. Star-Advertiser.

State Rep. Romy Cachola agreed to pay a $2,496 fine to the state and reimburse his campaign $32,166 to settle a complaint filed against him by the Campaign Spending Commission. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu City Council members are seeking to provide relief to Oahu property owners caught off-guard by a hike in property taxes this year. Civil Beat.

University of Hawaii President David Lassner said former Manoa Chancellor Tom Apple's performance over the past two years raised serious red flags about his abilities to turn around a fiscal crisis, inspire his leadership team to carry out strategic goals, and champion the university's flagship campus. Star-Advertiser.

Fired University of Hawaii Manoa Chancellor Tom Apple will be reassigned to a tenured faculty post that would pay him nearly three times as much as the average professor in UH’s chemistry department, but it’s unclear whether he will stay at the university. Hawaii News Now.

Officials are urging people to stay out of windward Oahu waters because of a pair of false killer whales in appear in distress. Associated Press.

A new academic year that includes increased classroom time and assessments on a new national test aligned to more rigorous curriculum standards greets the more than 185,000 isle public school students returning to school Friday. Star-Advertiser.

The Kahala Hotel & Resort has been sold to Japanese-based Resorttrust Inc. for $300 million, which equates to $887,000 per room, the next-to-highest per-room price paid for a Hawaii hotel and the highest per-room price paid for an Oahu property. Star-Advertiser.

Castle Medical Center, Hawaii National Bank and Aerotek took top honors as Hawaii’s Healthiest Employers during a Pacific Business News event Thursday, for creating an atmosphere of health and wellness for their employees in the workplace.

Hawaii

A Honolulu political action committee has pumped tens of thousands of dollars into three Hawaii County Council campaigns, in each case eclipsing the money the candidates were able to raise on their own. West Hawaii Today.

Two of the three candidates vying for the County Council seat in District 9 expressed concerns about the likely results of a request for proposals to deal with Hawaii County’s garbage. West Hawaii Today.

A complaint alleging Hawaii County Council District 5 candidate Tiffany Edwards Hunt does not qualify to run in the Puna mauka election will not receive a formal ruling since it was filed after the June 10 deadline for candidate objections. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii Independent has sent a series of follow up questions to OHA trustee Bob Lindsey asking how the decision to back down from contesting the Thirty Meter Telescope sublease was reached.

Maui

The future of Hawaii’s young tech industry was at the heart of a tech town hall last week. Many of the 50 or so attendees were left wondering whether Mbloom, a Maui-based venture fund, would either become the poster child for Hawaii’s burgeoning success or its potential source of implosion. Civil Beat.

A groundbreaking ceremony was held today for the new Central Maui Regional Sports Complex located on 65-acres in the master-planned Waiʻale community. Maui Now.

An Idaho-based real estate and financing firm has completed a draft environmental assessment for a proposed 186-unit, affordable rental housing project in Kihei. Maui News.

The remnants of tropical system Wali battered the deteriorating 138-year-old Ka'ahumanu Church, leaving puddles and the church interior soaked before Sunday service July 20. Maui News.

Kauai

The state Department of Education says the closures of four Kauai public schools were necessary because the water system was compromised during a construction project in Hanamaulu. The Kauai Department of Water issued an advisory instructing residents to boil water. Associated Press.

The problems at Kauai Pasta started Wednesday when the restaurant closed two hours early after the water shut off in the middle of the evening rush. When the water came back on, it was murky. Garden Island.

Billy DeCosta says he is not what you may call “the typical politician.” While late Mayor Bryan Baptiste was still in office, DeCosta recalled a time when he and Waimea High School students built 12 picnic tables in three months after county officials provided the materials. Garden Island.

Schatz has 5% lead over Hanabusa in poll, Democrats name surprise leader, Morita fined for illegal B&B, Arakawa seeks reelection as Maui mayor, UH president interviews to be public, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hokulea in Hilo © 2014 All Hawaii News

The winds off Hawaii Island still haven't shifted in their favor to sail, so Hoku­le‘a and Hiki­ana­lia will wait at least one more day before launching into the open sea. The two voyaging canoes will leave Hilo for Tahiti no earlier than midweek as their crews continue to wait for the winds they need to launch the first international leg of the Polynesian Voyaging Society's "Malama Honua" (Care for Our Earth) worldwide journey. Star-Advertiser.

The upcoming worldwide voyage of Hōkūleʻa and Hikianala was celebrated on Saturday in Hilo. Big Island Video News.

The Voyaging Canoe Hokule'a is preparing to leave Hilo for Tahiti, along with its sister ship Hikianalia.   The two vessels will depart Hilo on Tuesday, wind and weather permitting, for a 26-country, multi-year journey around the world. Hawaii Public Radio.

With less than two months to go before the first votes will be cast, Brian Schatz leads Colleen Hanabusa by 5 percentage points in the Democratic primary for Senate, a new Civil Beat Poll shows. Schatz, the incumbent, has the support of 44 percent of Hawaii voters who say they will pull the Democratic ballot in the Aug. 9 primary. Hanabusa, a U.S. representative, polled 39 percent, with 16 percent saying they were undecided.

The National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare, an influential nonprofit advocacy group for seniors, will endorse U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz on Tuesday in the Demo­cratic primary for U.S. Senate. Star-Advertiser.

Major candidates for the soon-to-be vacant Hawaii 1st Congressional District seat are calling for reforms at the troubled Department of Veterans Affairs but are stopping short of calling for the resignation of Hawaii-born Secretary Eric Shinseki. Star-Advertiser.

At the Democratic Party of Hawaii’s convention Sunday, delegates rejected the scion of a prominent Oahu family in favor of a Maui delegate to lead the party for the next two years. Stephanie Ohigashi, a Maui County Democratic Party vice chairwoman active in politics for three decades, defeated labor attorney Tony Gill in a lopsided vote. Ohigashi succeeds Dante Carpenter, who did not pursue a third term. Civil Beat.

A bill that raises Hawaiʻi’s minimum wage from the current $7.25 an hour to $10.10 an hour in 2018, was signed into law Friday by Governor Neil Abercrombie. Senate Bill 2609, now Act 82, increases the state’s minimum wage by establishing four incremental increases, starting with a 50 cent increase to $7.75 per hour starting on Jan. 1, 2015. Maui Now.

Hermina Morita, chair of the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission, and her husband have been fined for illegally building and operating their Hanalei bed and breakfast and were ordered to tear down the existing structures. Garden Island.

Residential electrical rates fell on Oahu in May from the previous month but rose on all other islands, the state's two power companies reported. Star-Advertiser.

Interviews of two men vying to become the next University of Hawaii president will be open to the public. The university Board of Regents will be interviewing the two finalists on Tuesday during a special meeting. Associated Press.

A battle could be brewing when it comes to obtaining hemp seeds here in Hawaii. KITV4.

Oahu

Tens of thousands of people lined the shores at Ala Moana Beach Park this Memorial Day for the 2014 Lantern Floating Hawaii ceremony. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Pacific University’s multi-million-dollar plan to redevelop the Aloha Tower Marketplace into student and faculty residences, classrooms, a fitness center, retail and other uses, has received its final environmental approval. Pacific Business News.

About 100 guests and workers at the Royal Hawaiian Hotel fell sick from an infectious virus — called norovirus — about two weeks ago, and hotel officials said the number appears to have decreased significantly. Star-Advertiser.

Software experts are unveiling preliminary results of the first comprehensive digital survey of the USS Arizona Memorial in hopes 3-D computer models of the historic ship will one day help the National Park Service tell the story of the attack on Pearl Harbor. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Ten thousand men of Japanese descent volunteered just in Hawaii to serve in the military during World War II, Evan Matsuyama said. His grandfather, Noburu “Don” Seki was the keynote speaker at the Memorial Day ceremony at the West Hawaii Veterans Cemetery. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Mayor Alan Arakawa filed nomination papers Friday as a candidate for a third term as mayor of Maui County. Maui News.

The 310-room Makena Beach & Golf Resort may be redeveloped into 46 apartment units, part of a new diversified resort community at Makena that will also include a new 76-room hotel, 12 multifamily condominium units, five spa hale and nine beach cottages. Maui News.

Kauai
Felicia Cowden makes Kauai County Council bid. Garden Island.

The BLNR voted Friday to approve public hearings regarding the adoption of a new rule that would create a subsistence fishing area on Kaua‘i. Hawaii Independent.

Hawaii farmland growing, controversial Sen. Hee runs for lieutenant governor, Waikiki homeless roundup, brouhaha over OHA letter to John Kerry, sailing vessel Hokulea off to worldwide voyage, Kauai credit downgraded, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Island dairy farm courtesy photo

The latest U.S. Department of Agriculture farm census, published every five years, showed that Hawaii farmers put 8,000 more acres into production between 2007 and 2012, increasing total land used to grow food and other products to 1,129,000 acres from about 1,121,000 acres. Star-Advertiser.

State Sen. Clayton Hee has announced he is running as a Democrat for lieutenant governor, challenging incumbent Shan Tsutsui. Hawaii News Now.

Hee

By running against Lt. Gov. Shan Tsutsui in the Democratic primary this year, state Sen. Clayton Hee shakes up not only that race — Tsutsui is a former Senate president who took the LG job after Brian Schatz was appointed to the U.S. Senate in 2012 — but also the governor's race. Gov. Neil Abercrombie faces a spirited challenge by state Sen. David Ige, who is backed by former Govs. Ben Cayetano and George Ariyoshi. Civil Beat.

Former state Rep. Gil Riviere said Sunday that he will enter the Democratic primary for the state Senate seat being vacated by Sen. Clayton Hee, who is running for lieutenant governor. Star-Advertiser.

An increase in grassroots organizing this year around highly controversial issues related to same-sex marriage, development in Kakaako and genetically modified farming have spurred the Hawaii State Ethics Commission to take a closer look at several citizens groups to ensure that they’re complying with the state ethics law. Civil Beat.

A 33-year-old madam who said her elite escort business offered prostitution services to some of Hawaii’s most prominent judges, politicians and entertainers, has made stunning allegations in a civil lawsuit filed in U.S. District Court against a Special Agent with Homeland Security Investigations U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement division. Hawaii Reporter.

On May 5th, 2014, Office of Hawaiian Affairs CEO, Dr. Kamanaʻopono Crabbe, sent a letter to US Secretary of State John Kerry asking for “advice” on OHA’s possible breaches of international law given the evidence for the continued existence of the Hawaiian Kingdom. The Universe.

The Hawaiian Kingdom blog reports that Dan Ahuna, a trustee with the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, has taken his name off of a recent letter addressed to U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry. Civil Beat.

The chief executive of Hawaii’s largest health insurance company is calling on Hawaii to shut down its beleaguered health insurance exchange, which was set up as part of President Barack Obama’s signature health care law. Associated Press.

State lawmakers expressed dismay Friday over Hawaii Medical Service Association chief Michael Gold's contention this week that Hawaii should seek an immediate exemption from the federal Affordable Care Act's requirement for the state to have an online health insurance exchange. Maui Now.

The Hawaii Legislature Can Stop Time. Civil Beat.

This Saturday, the Polynesian voyaging canoe Hokulea and its sister vessel the Hikianalia, will leave Oahu and set sail for Hilo, where they’ll continue on to Tahiti. Over the next few days, the public will get their last chance to bid the two canoes a final farewell before they embark on a worldwide voyage called Malama Honua, caring for our Island Earth. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hokule'a is still designed to sail and perform as its ancestral wa'a (canoes) did, when centuries ago they pulled much of Polynesia out of the sea. But in many ways this is Hokule'a 2.0. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Mayor Kirk Caldwell and Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha said they are pushing back to make the community safe and accessible for all. In doing so, they say, police have begun to round up hundreds of offenders, some of whom have violated court orders or are committing crimes while living in makeshift communities throughout Waikiki. Star-Advertiser.

In May the city joined with the private vendor Service Systems Associates to open an oceanside cafe in a former Kuhio Beach public pavilion that had become a haven for homeless people. Star-Advertiser.

Ticket sales were down by 20 percent for the first quarter of this year compared with last year at the Pacific Aviation Museum, one of three paid attractions at Pearl Harbor, resulting in reduced hours for workers there. Star-Advertiser.

The fate of the Waimanalo Gulch Sanitary Landfill remains uncertain 15 months after the city endeavored to reach a resolution with the community group that's fought the hardest to shutter Oahu's only municipal dump. Star-Advertiser.

On a rural expanse of Oahu’s leeward coast, a line of concrete pillars snakes through fields of corn stalks and pumpkins toward downtown Honolulu where distant high rises jut into the sky through a muggy haze. Honolulu rail — now five decades in the making — is taking shape. Civil Beat.

The Howard Hughes Corp. has reached contractual agreements for about half of the 482 units in its two ultra-luxury high-rises in Kakaako — Anaha and Waiea — part of its Ward Village master-planned community, according to its first-quarter earnings report released Thursday. Pacific Business News.

A rise in recent citations for people trespassing at Sacred Falls State Park prompted the Department of Land and Natural Resources to remind the public that the park is closed due to danger from falling rocks. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands is recommending approval of its first subdivision application on the Big Island since it lifted a moratorium for agriculture land last year. The ranch land, leased to Flora Solomon, the mother of state Sen. Malama Solomon, is the only subdivision application that has been submitted. Tribune-Herald.

The Puna Community Development Plan Action Committee will weigh a report recommending several dozen new emergency routes for the district’s large subdivisions at its Tuesday meeting. Tribune-Herald.

Department of Land and Natural Resources’ Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement officers have cited the owner of a 47-foot sailing vessel that caused damage to coral reef in Kailua Bay on May 2. Approximately 80 feet of chain was in the water, with about 30 to 40 feet in the coral. West Hawaii Today.

Maui
Wailuku representative and House Speaker Joe Souki has endorsed Justin Woodson for election to the Central Maui 9th House seat he was appointed to by Gov. Neil Abercrombie, according to an announcement from Woodson. Maui News.

Maui County will pay $25,000 in attorneys' fees and damages to settle a federal lawsuit brought by a part-time employee who alleged his First Amendment right to free speech was violated when county officials interfered with his work on his MAUIWatch Facebook page. Maui News.

Kauai

Fitch Ratings, a global credit rating agency, has downgraded the County of Kauai’s long-term credit grade, citing consistent rises in expenses, stagnant growths in revenues and waning balances in county reserve funds. Garden Island.

The Legislature provided $5 million in planning money for a replacement jail on Oahu, and $1.5 million to Maui — but funding for Kauai and the Big Island will have to wait another session, according to the state Department of Public Safety. Garden Island.