Mauna Loa grumbles, Maui utility opposes undersea cable, Kakaako at center of governor debate, investor may save Maui Sugar Cane Train, plan to eliminate cesspools, Land Board OKs Sand Island homeless camp, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hiking Mauna Loa © 2014 All Hawaii News

As Kilauea continues to threaten lower Puna, geologists are also keeping their eye on the volcano’s much larger cousin — Mauna Loa. According to the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, Mauna Loa, the largest active volcano on the planet, has been rumbling and showing signs of awakening for over a year. Tribune-Herald.

As Puna residents brace for the approaching lava flow from Kilauea Volcano, its larger sibling continues to show signs of awakening. Star-Advertiser.

Former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann wants Hawaii voters to do something they have never done before: elect an independent as governor. After embarrassing, lopsided losses in Demo­cratic primaries for Congress in 2012 and governor in 2010, Hannemann has reinvented himself with the new Hawaii Independent Party. Star-Advertiser.

Rivals differ on strategies for Native Hawaiians. Charles Djou vows to get his party to take up sovereignty, and Mark Takai would focus on preserving federal benefits. Star-Advertiser.

A new report on the nation’s growing income gap finds that stagnant wages for most Americans have dampened consumer spending, and that’s bad for states like Hawaii that depend heavily on sales taxes to keep their governments running. Associated Press.

A draft plan by the state Department of Health is raising a stink among local real estate agents and builders who say proposed rules requiring that septic tank systems replace cesspools could add $10,000 to the price of a new home and make buying and selling existing homes less affordable. West Hawaii Today.

Come November, voters will decide whether to change Hawaii’s constitution and allow the state to spend public money on private preschool programs. Civil Beat.

State roundup for Sept. 15. Associated Press.

Oahu

Three Candidates, Three Views on Future of Fast-Growing Kakaako. Mufi Hannemann, David Ige and Duke Aiona discuss housing, infrastructure and the governor's influence on the area under control of state redevelopment district. Civil Beat.

Hawai‘i’s Board of Land and Natural Resources gave the green light for the city’s plan to temporarily create a homeless site on Sand Island. The board voted 5 - 1 to approve a three-year lease of the land, free of charge. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Hawaii Board of Land and Natural Resources voted 5-1 on Friday to approve a city petition to lease about 5 acres of state land to the city rent free for a temporary homeless encampment on Sand Island. Civil Beat.

A single-family home on the waterfront in Honolulu costs 335 percent more than its inland counterpart, according to a study by the online real estate company Zillow. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

The lava flow threatening Pahoa and surrounding areas shifted to a more northerly direction this weekend, and showed signs of having slowed between Friday and Sunday. Tribune-Herald.

Kilauea Volcano's June 27 flow shifted to the north Sunday, moving the front away from Kaohe Homesteads but toward Pahoa Village and the area's main highway. Star-Advertiser.

Four West Hawaii prosecutors made the list of six finalists to replace retired District Court Judge Joseph P. Florendo. On the list are prosecutors Jeffrey Burleson, Michael Schlueter, Cynthia Tai and Kimberly Taniyama, Deputy Public Defender Wendy DeWeese and Deputy Corporation Counsel Margaret Masunaga. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Efforts to save and revive the Sugar Cane Train remained on track with a Hawaii investor "seriously pursuing the acquisition" of the 45-year-old attraction and continuing its operation in West Maui, according to members of a nonprofit group being formed to save the train. Maui News.

A high-voltage undersea cable between Maui and Oahu, estimated to cost $700 million or more, is not needed and would not be cost effective, Maui Electric Co. has concluded. Maui News.

A former chef and Lahaina citrus grower is being honored this weekend with an award from the Hawaiʻi Tropical Fruit Growers organization. Maui Now.

Kauai

Embattled retired car dealer James Pflueger reportedly was scheduled to finalize the sale Friday of 383 acres near the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge on Kauai's north shore where a massive mudslide occurred in 2001 because of reckless and unauthorized grading and landscaping. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Dairy Farms’ revised plan for 578 acres in Mahaulepu continues to cause a stink for one South Shore resort and a number of local residents. Garden Island.

Appeals court to hear gay marriage bans today, medical marijuana problems outlined in new report, lava veers away from homes, Maui to audit Solid Waste Division, new GMO group spends thousands on TV ads, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gay in Hawaii, courtesy photo

The federal appeals court in San Francisco has already issued two significant gay rights rulings: In 2012, it struck down California's same-sex wedding ban and this year it extended protections against discrimination to gay and lesbians. Now, three judges on the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals -- all appointed by Democrats and two of whom joined in the civil rights ruling this year -- are set to hear arguments Monday on gay marriage bans in Idaho, Nevada and Hawaii. Associated Press.

Three judges on the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals are expected to hear arguments on Monday on gay marriage bans in Hawaii, Idaho and Nevada. Civil Beat.

A new report released Sunday details some of the difficulties that 13,000 medical marijuana patients go through trying to obtain the drug because there are no dispensaries or legal ways to buy pot in Hawaii, 14 years after passage of legislation to help suffering patients. Hawaii News Now.

Medical Marijuana Program Marked By ‘Glaring Uncertainties’. Dispensary task force report details recommendations to Hawaii Legislature; public testimony sought. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Medical Marijuana Dispensary Task Force has just released a report on ways to fix the system governing medical marijuana. The 87-page report could decide the future of a dispensary system for medical marijuana. KHON2.

Pat Saiki, the chairwoman of the Hawaii Republican Party, told party leaders on Saturday that the Republican National Committee has invested in the islands to help Republican candidates win in November. Star-Advertiser.

Former Lt. Gov. James "Duke" Aiona has reintroduced himself to voters this year in a softer hue of Republican red, as a former judge, youth basketball coach, substitute teacher and grandfather who would restore trust, respect and balance to Washington Place. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii State Department of Education will reinstate the controversial “Pono Choices” sex education curriculum, but after pressure from some parents and lawmakers, the program for middle school students will include some key revisions. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii regulators have given the state approval to issue $150 million in bonds to provide low-cost capital for a proposed loan program that would expand access to solar energy systems and other clean energy improvements for Hawaii consumers who have had a hard time getting financing for such projects. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Operations at the city's Emergency Medical Services Division appear to be running smoothly following a conversion to 12-hour shifts that took place Aug. 31 for most of the roughly 200 paramedics and emergency medical technicians, EMS officials said. Star-Advertiser.

Work to carve out a lane of South King Street reserved only for bicyclists is set to begin Monday and be open by the end of the year, city officials said. Star-Advertiser.

There is a high risk of a fire at the Navy’s Red Hill Underground Fuel Storage Facility in Halawa, according to Department of Defense budget documents. The federal agency wants nearly $50 million for the 2015 fiscal year to make improvements to the facility’s fire suppression and ventilation systems. Civil Beat.

The University of Hawaii is reviving plans to lease excess land surrounding its West Oahu campus for commercial development in hopes of both generating revenue and preventing other interests from cashing in on the lucrative real estate. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Lava advance continues, still no threat. County Civil Defense said in a Sunday morning message the June 27 lava flow advanced about 200 yards in the previous day and was continuing to move very slowly northward. Tribune-Herald.

Lava flow takes a northern turn away from Ka'ohe. Lava about 0.7 miles away from Ka'ohe Homesteads. KITV4.

Lava flow creeps north, no threat to Puna homes. Star-Advertiser.

A flyover on Sunday morning shows that lava from Kilauea is still slowly advancing. Hawaii News Now.

As the June 27 lava flow continues its advance on populated areas in lower Puna, one question consistently pops up during community discussions on the subject: Is there anything we can do to stop or redirect nature’s fury? Tribune-Herald.

Turns out you can fight City Hall after all. That’s the experience of Arlene Kimata, a petite middle-aged Hilo woman who single-handedly waged a successful campaign against the operation of an industrial baseyard in her residential neighborhood. West Hawaii Today.

State biologist Bill Walsh offered two slightly different takes Thursday on the state of reef fish in West Hawaii at the Symposium on Kona’s Marine Ecosystem. West Hawaii Today.

A conflicted Windward Planning Commission, faced with two dozen speakers asking it to slow down a study of health impacts of the Puna Geothermal Venture plant, on Thursday told the county administration to seek input from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. West Hawaii Today.

Maui
Maui County’s debate over genetically modified farming hit the airwaves last week as a new organization ran its first TV spots. Citizens Against the Maui County Farming Ban spent more than $80,000 last week running ads on four local TV stations during news hours and shows like “Criminal Minds” and “Hawaii 5-0,” according to data from the Federal Communications Commission. Civil Beat.

Maui County Council Member Mike White says Mayor Alan Arakawa wants voters in November to elect a more compliant County Council to advance his agenda in another four-year term. Maui News.

The Maui Police Commission has selected Tivoli Faaumu as the new Police Chief for Maui County. Maui Now.

Tivoli Faaumu, a 29-year police veteran who won support from both police officers and the community as captain of the Kihei Patrol District, was selected Friday as the new Maui County police chief. Maui News.

The Maui County Council voted Friday to conduct a performance audit of the Solid Waste Division in light of what some council members are calling a "crisis" situation created by a reduction in trash collection and landfill services in a clash with Mayor Alan Arakawa over staffing and budgeting for the division. Maui News.

Kauai

The Kauai County Planning Commission, during a recent meeting, unanimously gave its initial stamp of approval to a proposed subdivision, which would be built on one of the last vacant lots on Makahuena Point. Plans by Anchorage, Alaska-based company Cook Inlet Region, Inc. would develop 10 homes on the now vacant 14-acre property on Makahuena Point. Garden Island.

The Kauai Chamber of Commerce has scheduled a series of political forums leading up to the Nov. 4 general election. Garden Island.

Hawaii mayor signs emergency proclamation as lava advances, Mauna Loa volcano grumbles with earthquakes, Council on Revenues lowers forecast, sex ed curriculum approved, FEMA releases Maui flood maps, state Senate power struggle underway, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Lava flow seen in deep cracks, courtesy USGS

Mayor Billy Kenoi signed an emergency proclamation Thursday as residents of Hawaii Island's Kaohe Homesteads subdivision learned that lava from Kilauea Volcano was just 0.8 of a mile away and could reach them within a week. Star-Advertiser.

With a lava flow potentially days from reaching Kaohe Homesteads, several Puna residents pressed Hawaii County officials at a meeting Thursday evening to try to divert or stop its advance. And just as many in the crowd responded — leave Pele alone. Tribune-Herald.

Lava flow, courtesy USGS

Lava from Kilauea continues to inch its way closer to homes in Puna. Hawaii County Mayor Billy Kenoi signed Thursday an emergency proclamation for the advancing lava flow in the Wao Kele O Puna area after the flow extended to less than a mile from the edge of the Kaohe Homesteads subdivision. KHON2.

Rural Hawaii residents still recovering from a recent tropical storm are keeping a nervous eye on slowly advancing lava that may reach their community within a week. Lava from Kilauea volcano is within less than a mile of Kaohe Homesteads, authorities said. Lava could reach the community in five to seven days if it continues on its current path, geologists with the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory said. Associated Press.

Scientists have recently recorded increased seismic activity at Mauna Loa volcano on the Big Island of Hawaii. In their most recent monthly report, United States Geological Survey scientists noted the largest swarm of small earthquakes in almost a decade. Hawaii News Now.

The state will have at least $100 million less than expected to fund government programs and pay public workers over the next year, based on the Hawaii Council on Revenues’ latest forecast. It was the fifth quarterly meeting in a row that the council has downgraded its revenue forecast. Civil Beat.

The Council on Revenues sharply lowered its forecast for Hawaii economic growth. Hawaii News Now.

Former Lt. Gov. James "Duke" Aiona said Thursday that he supports an Early College program that would help set low-income public school students on paths toward college and business careers. Star-Advertiser.

Republican gubernatorial candidate Duke Aiona told a group of supporters Wednesday in Hilo that he expects a close finish in the Nov. 4 general election. Tribune-Herald.

Even with the general election still eight weeks away, maneuvering for top positions and chairmanships in the Hawaii state Senate is already under way. Civil Beat.

Hawaii is too small of a market to be a test bed for energy innovation, and the rest of the world should take the lead in this crucial area, according to an internationally-known energy expert. Pacific Business News.

The controversial Pono Choices sex education program can again be taught in public middle schools, the Department of Education announced Thursday, saying several revisions have made by the program's developers at the University of Hawaii at Manoa to improve the curriculum and address public concerns. Star-Advertiser.

A federal judge on Thursday approved $2.4 million in settlements between the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and four Hawaii farms as co-defendants in a discrimination suit filed against Global Horizons, an employment agency that managed and mistreated 500 Thai farmworkers. Garden Island.

Oahu

A scathing audit of the city Department of Customer Services' Motor Vehicle, Licensing and Permits Division found the often-criticized agency lacking -- largely in the area of customer service. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The U.S. Department of Agriculture designated Hawaii County on Wednesday as a primary natural disaster area because of damage and losses caused by Tropical Storm Iselle. Tribune-Herald.

Federal disaster loans and other assistance are available for farmers who suffered losses from the wind, rain, and flooding from Tropical Storm Iselle. Star-Advertiser.

A conflicted Windward Planning Commission, faced with two dozen speakers asking it to slow down a study of health impacts of the Puna Geothermal Venture plant, on Thursday told the county administration to seek input from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. West Hawaii Today.

Four independent scientists say they see no impact from freshwater pumping on resources within Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park, a former Department of Land and Natural Resources chairman said Thursday. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The Federal Emergency Management Agency has released new flood insurance rate maps that have been revised for areas of Molokaʻi and Maui. Maui Now.

Kihei police Capt. Tivoli Faaumu is the top choice to be the next police chief among Maui County police officers who want to see change, a police union official said Wednesday. Maui News.

As promised, Mayor Alan Arakawa's administration submitted a proposed budget amendment Wednesday afternoon requesting four expansion positions for the Environmental Management Department that were previously denied by the Maui County Council to end the reductions in landfill and trash pickup services. Maui News.

Construction has just begun on a large sports development in central Maui. But while young athletes and their coaches may be excited about the project, a group of local homeowners in Kahului is not. And they’re suing the county and the state to stop it. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai

Brigitte D’Annibale has lived in Puhi for the past 15 years and said she has seen the heavily-traveled thoroughfare in front of her home, Puhi Road, gradually fall apart. Garden Island.

Arizona Memorial ticket scam probed, Aiona would perform gay marriage, teamsters endorse Hannemann, medical marijuana dispensaries mulled, lava threat increases, Chinatown to house homeless, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

USS Arizona Memorial courtesy photo

A report by the National Parks Service shows that commercial tour operators have been taking advantage of the Arizona Memorial's free passes policy to make a profit, while under the less-than-watchful eyes of the memorial's operators. Hawaii Independent.

The state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism is surveying Hawaii residents this month to gather data on how much it costs to live in Hawaii. Civil Beat.

Hawaii bankruptcy filings plunged 18.5 percent in August to their second lowest level of the year. Star-Advertiser.

Republican gubernatorial candidate Duke Aiona, a same-sex marriage opponent and former judge who's performed weddings for 24 years, told Hawaii News Now he would reluctantly marry a same-sex couple as required by law. Aiona is a Catholic who's been clear that he opposes gay marriage, but it's not a major part of his campaign for governor. Hawaii News Now.

Should Hawaii follow the lead of some other states and restrict medical marijuana to large state-run dispensaries and massive growing operations? Or should it allow small farmers to obtain licenses to grow enough for themselves and a few other patients? West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii Teamsters & Allied Workers Union, Local 996, representing more than 6,000 members in Hawaii and Guam, has endorsed gubernatorial candidate Mufi Hannemann. Civil Beat.

This year marked the first time there was a primary contest for the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, the idea being to obtain a larger pool of candidates instead of the same trustees who seem to win election after election. Civil Beat.

Hawaii has about four times as many vacation rentals for travelers than the state’s tourism agency previously believed. Associated Press.

Island Air said Tuesday that David Pflieger will take over as president and CEO of the Hawaii interisland airline, effective Oct. 1. Pacific Business News.

The Hawaii State Department of Health has a newly renovated lobby and marriage license office. The department says the renovation was the vision of the department's former director Loretta Fuddy, who died after the plane she was a passenger in crashed-landed in the ocean off Molokai in December. Associated Press.

Oahu

Residents of Pauahi Hale, a low-income high-rise in downtown Chinatown, will be getting new neighbors in the coming months. The city plans to use a substantial portion of the building to house homeless people struggling with mental illness and alcohol and drug abuse. Civil Beat.

A busy 2.3-mile stretch of South Beretania Street, from University Avenue to Alapai Street, will get a major overhaul from the city during the next 13 months starting Monday, leaving area businesses and residents bracing for some delays and inconveniences. Star-Advertiser.

In the grand scheme that has become Honolulu’s $5.3 billion rail project, spending $223,000 on time-lapse video cameras may not seem like such a big deal. KITV4.

A recently retired career Army engineer was nominated to lead the city's Department of Design and Construction by Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

The price tag for a new $2.3 million all-weather track at Radford High School ballooned to $10.3 million after the discovery of both contaminants and munitions in the soil of the athletic field it surrounds. Star-Advertiser.

It’s an ongoing challenge for state officials. How do you to stop contraband from getting into the hands of prisoners? KHON2.

New guests at a Waikīkī hotel are creating some buzz. 80,000 honey bees have taken up residence at the beachfront resort. Hawaii Public Radio.

Prominent East Oahu Realtor Sentenced for Money Laundering Scheme. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii

The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory plans to soon increase the lava threat level from a watch to a warning as a lava flow could be a week away from reaching Kaohe Homesteads. Tribune-Herald.

It was the question on everyone's mind Tuesday: Where will the lava go next? Star-Advertiser.

While Hawaii County Civil Defense announced its plans to give homeowners at least five days notice should evacuation be necessary because of the June 27 lava flow, that might not leave much time for residents looking to relocate large numbers of animals. Tribune-Herald.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie announced Tuesday the release of $2.8 million for renovation projects on Hawaii Island as part of a larger $9.2 million allotment of capital improvement funds to upgrade and improve state hospital facilities and fund water treatment projects across the state. Tribune-Herald.

The Marine Mammal Center's Ke Kai Ola, a new hospital dedicated to the rescue and care of critically endangered Hawaiian monk seals, was blessed and its grand opening celebrated Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui Electric Co. has signed a 15-year agreement with FortisBC Energy to buy liquefied natural gas capacity, MECO has disclosed. Maui News.

Haleakalā National Park marks the 50th anniversary of the Wilderness Act tomorrow, a measure that gave public lands their highest level of protection when it was signed into law in 1964, park officials announced. Maui Now.

The Maui County Cultural Resources Commission will continue its discussion on proposed revisions to design guidelines for signs in the Lahaina Historic District at its Thursday meeting. Maui News.

The Maui Ocean Center in Māʻalaea welcomes six baby green sea turtles during a traditional Hawaiian blessing ceremony today, aquarium administrators announced. Maui Now.

Kauai

A total of 20 Hawaii Health Systems Corp. employees — 12 at Kauai Veterans Memorial Hospital in Kawaihau and eight at Samuel Mahelona Memorial Hospital in Kapaa — received layoff notices. Three other positions slated to be reduced were vacant when the layoffs were handed out on Tuesday and will be eliminated instead. Garden Island.

Anticipating ag ads. Hawaii Farm Bureau to spend $400K on PR campaign. Garden Island.

Kauai residents are invited to attend community meetings to ask questions and address concerns with the Kauai Fire Department. Garden Island.

State officials are testing emergency sirens on Kauai this week. The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency says testing will be conducted Wednesday through Friday. Associated Press.

Gubernatorial candidates debate, Oahu to raise smoking age, Puna prepares for lava, Hawaiian Electric companies file long-term plans, Kauai property tax bills rise, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii gubernatorial candidates debate, screen grab

Hawaii can stimulate its economy and generate jobs without raising taxes, the state's gubernatorial candidates said in a forum Tuesday. The debate hosted by the West Oahu Economic Development Association marked the first time that the four candidates met since the primary election earlier this month. Associated Press.

Mufi, David, Duke and Jeff: Our Candidates for Governor Get Together. Hawaii's contenders for top job talk about economic growth in West Oahu, same-sex marriage and elephants in the room. Civil Beat.

The first forum featuring all four candidates for Governor overlooked the first section of Oahu's rail line from the UH West Oahu Campus Center. It was a fitting focal point to discuss the economy and future of Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

Two weeks after his upset of Gov. Neil Abercrombie for the Democratic Party's gubernatorial nomination, Oahu state Sen. David Ige expressed confidence Saturday that he and Lt. Gov. Shan Tsutsui would ride a wave of voter support to win in the Nov. 4 general election. Maui News.

The Hawaiian Electric Cos. plan to lower customers' electric bills by 20 percent, nearly triple the amount of rooftop solar and give customers more service options by 2030, while attaining the highest level of renewable energy in the nation, according to response released late Tuesday to directives by the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission that were handed down in April. Pacific Business News.

The Hawaiian electric companies filed new long-term energy plans with the state Public Utilities Commission on Tuesday that outline their strategies for increasing clean energy, reducing consumer costs, and improving the integration of solar into their electric grids on Oahu, Maui County and the Big Island. Civil Beat.

The Hawaiian Electric Companies late Tuesday afternoon filed what can be described as a massive energy transition plan with the Public Utilities Commission. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiian Electric delivered on its promise on Tuesday, presenting its plan to reduce costs and allow more people to use renewable energy . HECO delivered binders full of documents late Tuesday afternoon to the Public Utilities Commission.  The PUC then posted it online. KHON2.

It’s Women’s Equality Day. How Does Hawaii Compare? Very well on a number of fronts, thank you, and overall we're No. 1. Civil Beat.

A new University of Hawaii report on global warming doesn't specify when the impacts will hit but warns the tourism industry to start preparing now for the effects linked to climate change because they likely will have a profound effect on the state and its No. 1 business. Star-Advertiser.

Opinion: Puna Voters Had Practical Problems, Not Legal Defects. Natural disasters occasionally disrupt elections but legal challenges have not materialized or succeeded in other states. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann said Tuesday that the city, not the Hawaii Community Development Authority, should have planning oversight in Kakaako. Star-Advertiser.

A bill that would raise the smoking age to 21 won preliminary approval Tuesday from the City Council's Public Safety and Economic Development Committee. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu may join a growing number of jurisdictions throughout the country, including Hawaii County, to raise the minimum age for buying cigarettes from 18 to 21. Civil Beat.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources will hold a public meeting Wednesday to discuss a proposed one-year pilot project to regulate the use of stand-up paddleboards at certain surf breaks on Oahu's South Shore. Star-Advertiser.

Legislation seeking to create a quasi-independent agency to manage Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve was shelved by a Honolulu City Council committee Tuesday to allow the Parks and Recreation Department time to provide specific financial information to Council members and others who want to know where up to $6 million in annual revenue from the popular attraction is being used. Star-Advertiser.

Hanauma Bay to be audited over repair backlog and improper budget accusations. Hawaii News Now.

The City Council Executive Matters and Legislative Affairs Committee on Tuesday deferred Bill 50, which would have given the Council the authority to determine how much in fines should be paid by those who violate city land use laws. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric Co. wants 65 percent of its power to come from renewable sources by 2030, cut customer bills by 20 percent, convert remaining power plants to liquefied natural gas and charge customers with rooftop solar much more. Star-Advertiser.

Drivers in Honolulu rank among the top 30 percent accident-prone motorists in the U.S., according to an annual ranking of the nation's 200 biggest urban areas, according to Allstate Corp. Star-Advertiser.

Homeless people living on University of Hawaii Manoa land just steps away from dorms and faculty housing have left behind piles of trash, making parts of Waahila Ridge look like a small garbage dump. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

One of the finalists for Hawaii County’s waste-to-energy incinerator is expected to penalize the City and County of Honolulu big bucks for not providing enough garbage for its plant last year. But Hawaii County Environmental Management Director Bobby Jean Leithead Todd said Tuesday the Big Island isn’t likely to run into the same problem because it’s planning a much smaller facility. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Island public safety officials are asking lower Puna residents to remain vigilant as scientists continue to track a lava flow that is within 2 miles of homes. The June 27 flow, named for the date it began, is moving at a speed of about 200 to 300 feet per day, according to Jim Kauahikaua, Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientist-in-charge. Tribune-Herald.

The ordinarily quiet streets of Kaohe Homesteads south of Pahoa bustled with activity Tuesday. Neighbors visited with each other to share the latest news, and residents from nearby communities were busy driving through to see what they could see — scoping out the area public safety officials say could be the first in line if an unpredictable lava flow 2 miles away continues on its path. Tribune-Herald.

Councilwoman Brenda Ford says South Kona needs a new well — the sooner, the better. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Developers for the proposed Piʻilani Promenade in South Maui have filed a draft environmental impact statement for the project. Maui Now.

Opponents of Revised Pi‘ilani Promenade Project Express Concern. Maui Weekly.

The state Board of Land and Natural Resources approved a deal Friday to resolve encroachments onto Kihei state beach reserve land, officials said Monday. Maui News.

Kula Elementary School lowered its student absentee rate by nearly 20 percentage points in the last school year, after a third of its students missed 15 days or more in the previous school year, according to statistics released Monday by the state Department of Education. Maui News.

Kauai

County officials say 5,293 property owners in the county’s homestead class received increases on their real property taxes this year. Another 5,651 people, according to Department of Finance data, received decreases on their tax returns. Garden Island.

Superferry resurfaces, Aiona leads in gubernatorial poll, economy gaining, Kauai photographer sues Bieber, GMO advocates and foes not disclosing contributions, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Superferry docked in Kauai, photo courtesy Christopher P.  Becker

People are talking ferry again. The first Hawaiian Inter-Island Ferry Conference to explore pros and cons of Hawaiian Inter-Island Ferry systems is scheduled Oct. 6 in Honolulu. Recent online polls showing 80 percent in favor of ferry service prompted the Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association, and the Master Mates and Pilots, to organize six speakers at the five-hour town hall meeting. Garden Island.

With the primary election over, it's now a three-way race for governor. And some experts believe the race is closer than recent polls suggest. In the latest Hawaii News Now/Honolulu Star-Advertiser Hawaii Poll, Republican Duke Aiona is the front-runner in a three-way race with 41 percent of the vote, followed by Democrat David Ige with 34 percent and independent Mufi Hannemann with just 15 percent.

Hawaii's economy is expected to grow faster this year than previously forecast after inflation remained mild during the first six months of 2014. The state revised upward its growth forecast on Wednesday and projects Hawaii's inflation-adjusted gross domestic product, the broadest measure of economic output, to rise 2.6 percent this year, up from 2.4 percent in its May forecast, according to a quarterly report released by the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. Star-Advertiser.

State economists are expecting 8.3 million visitors to spend $14.9 billion in Hawaii this year, which would set a new record. The Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism’s third-quarter report, released Wednesday, revises Hawaii’s economic growth upward. Civil Beat.

Across the islands, 1 out of every 5 Hawaii residents depends on food aid from the Hawaii Foodbank and its network of agencies, a new report reveals. That's well above the national average of 1 in 7 people relying on food banks and feeding programs. Star-Advertiser.

Funding for vacant special-education services positions at public schools could be cut by more than $9 million under a preliminary plan the state Department of Education is working on as it braces for a reduced budget allocation from the state. Star-Advertiser.

Mark Takai and Charles Djou have much in common. They’re middle-aged family men who grew up in Hawaii, serve in the military and have years of experience in elected office. But there are fundamental differences between the two candidates that will help urban Oahu voters decide Nov. 4 who they want to represent them in Congress for the next two years. Civil Beat.

Aircraft facility named after late U.S. Sen. Inouye. KITV4.

Hawaii’s health-care exchange, the Hawaii Health Connector, has taken another blow. Hawaii Medical Service Association, the state’s largest health insurer, won’t participate in the Connector’s Small Business Health Options Program, or SHOP, as of January. Hawaii Reporter.

Oahu

The University of Hawaii athletic department says it is targeting a 5 percent cut on operational budget line items in an attempt to help rein in its projected deficit for the current fiscal year. Star-Advertiser.

The state is wading into a touchy turf war that's pitting stand up paddlers against surfers and bodyboarders. A group called Safe-Surf Hawaii is proposing a one year pilot program. The program would ban stand up paddle boarders from all surf breaks between Ala Wai boat harbor to Kewalo Basin. Hawaii News Now.

Organizers bringing a circus to Honolulu say the show will not feature animals as previously planned. People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals protested against the Moscow International Circus' plans to include animals during Honolulu shows in October. Associated Press.

Hawaii

A politically connected pumping company will be allowed to keep a baseyard it built in a Hilo neighborhood that’s zoned residential, despite constructing a five-bay industrial warehouse after getting a permit for a single-family home. West Hawaii Today.

While Tropical Storm Iselle apparently didn’t cause any serious injuries, some lower Puna residents think the same cannot be said for the steam release that occurred at Puna Geothermal Venture while they were hunkering down for Iselle’s arrival. The release, which included hydrogen sulfide, occurred the evening of Aug. 7 when the 38-megawatt plant was cut off from transmission lines and shut down. Tribune-Herald.

A total of 260 Hawaii Island residents reported sustaining damage to their homes as a result of Tropical Storm Iselle, according to the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Electric Light Co. continues to restore electric service to customers who lost power as a result of Tropical Storm Iselle. However, the company said in a prepared statement Wednesday that it could take another two weeks — in some cases, even longer — to restore power to all affected customers. West Hawaii Today.

Unemployment is dropping, while business is increasing, state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism officials said Wednesday. In the department’s third quarter 2014 statistics and economic report, officials said Hawaii Island’s unemployment rate dropped from 7 percent to 6 percent between the first part of 2013 and first quarter of this year. At the same time, Hawaii County had the second-highest increase in building permit values in the first quarter of 2014, a $13.8 million increase, or 16.2 percent. West Hawaii Today.

Things may be looking up for the critically endangered palila, the small songbird with a yellow head found only in the wild on Hawaii island. Star-Advertiser.

Maui
Donations Pour In to Influence GMO Debate, But Are They Being Disclosed? No ballot issue committees have formed to raise money for or against the proposed Maui County GMO ban on the fall ballot, but a lot has been spent on political candidates. Civil Beat.

Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa joins his administration in hosting a series of community meetings in September and October to receive public comment on the fiscal year 2015-2016 budget. Maui Now.

Three ranking Maui Police Department officers and three retired police officers from Maui, Honolulu and New York are the six finalists who will be interviewed for the job of Maui County police chief. Maui News.

A special committee tasked with reviewing applications for the Maui police chief vacancy has narrowed the list to six finalists and has released the names of those still in the running. Maui Now.

Former Maui County mayoral candidate Nelson Waikiki Jr. will be out of jail and placed on supervised release again, after police arrested him following a candidate forum at Seabury Hall in July. Maui News.

Kauai

A Kauai photographer is suing Canadian music star Justin Bieber and his bodyguard for assaulting him and destroying his camera at Shipwreck’s Beach in November. Garden Island.




A photographer who says he was assaulted by Justin Bieber's bodyguard on a Hawaii beach last year is suing the pop singer for assault and negligence. Associated Press.

County of Kauai officials are moving ahead with a new waste management program that would charge residents based on how much they throw away, though some have concerns. Garden Island.

Could Hawaii return to a Republican governor?

There's blood in the water as Democratic Gov. Neil Abercrombie struggles to stay afloat despite a persistent -- and polls say successful -- attack by state Sen. David Ige, an Oahu Democrat who chaired the Senate Ways and Means Committee.

Republicans on the national level are taking advantage of the intraparty blood-letting to bolster the chances of GOP candidate James "Duke" Aiona. Aiona, you'll recall, was lieutenant governor under former Gov. Linda Lingle, a Maui Republican who served two terms ending in 2010.

Abercrombie

"Thanks to a divisive Democratic gubernatorial primary in Hawaii, the party committee thinks that seat may now be in play," noted CNN pundits in a July blog post, adding that the Republican National Committee has sent additional staff to Hawaii, hoping to put this blue state into play in the midterm elections.

The RNC might not be that far off base. The latest poll, released by the Honolulu Star-Advertiser today, shows Aiona's favorability at 63 percent, the highest of any candidate tested in the poll, up from 58 percent in February. Fifty-one percent of traditional Democrats view him positively.

Ige

The poll found Ige holding a 54 percent to 36 percent lead over Abercrombie with 11 percent undecided. Independent candidate Mufi Hannemann, who lost to Abercrombie in the 2010 primary, had a 39 percent favorability rating.

"No governor has lost re-election since William Quinn, a Republican, in 1962, so Ige could be on the cusp of a historic upset on Saturday," the Star-Advertiser said.

The Hawaii Poll, conducted by Ward Research Inc., for the Star-Advertiser and Hawaii News Now, follows a Civil Beat poll last week with similar results.

Civil Beat found 51 percent of those who said 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.

Aiona

Intraparty squabbles certainly aren't new in a state that is so overwhelmingly Democratic -- the 25-member state Senate has one Republican, and the 51-member House has seven.

Party leaders traditionally push for unity at a huge Hilo rally the night before the primary, and work toward reconciliation at a breakfast the day after.

They'll certainly have their work cut out for them this year, and it will be interesting to see -- no matter who emerges victor -- how quickly the wounds can be salved during the long swim to the Nov. 4 general election.

Hawaii Republicans outnumbered but optimistic, UH Manoa chancellor Apple fights to keep job, early walk-in voting begins, reports from the campaign trail, more top government and political news from all the Hawaiian Islands

James "Duke" Aiona ©2014 All Hawaii News

Republican candidate James “Duke” Aiona lost by 17 percentage points to Democratic Gov. Neil Abercrombie in Hawaii’s last gubernatorial election. It’s never been easy for a Republican to win a statewide office in Hawaii, but Aiona’s supporters say the odds are much better this year. Civil Beat.

Republican Charles Djou, the onetime U.S. House member, raised $48,925 during the July 1-20 period, more than any other candidate in the  Hawaii 1st Congressional District race, including the seven Demo­crats seeking the job, and has more money available than any of them. Star-Advertiser.

The seven Democrats campaigning to represent urban Oahu in Congress for the next two years have a lot in common when it comes to social issues. Civil Beat.

Since the beginning of the year, there have been about 30 inmates who walked away from the work furlough program statewide, that's more than all of last year. Hawaii News Now.

A local artist is carrying out the last wish of the late Department of Health Director Loretta Fuddy. KITV4.

State roundup for July 29. Associated Press.

Oahu

Embattled University of Hawaii at Manoa Chancellor Tom Apple says he wants to continue working to improve accessibility for students and turn around budget troubles at UH's flagship campus despite an attempt to remove him from Manoa's top post Star-Advertiser.

As reports surface that University of Hawaii at Manoa Chancellor Tom Apple is getting the boot, professors and students are starting to speculate whether inside politics and disputes over the campus’s budget are at play. Civil Beat.

Tom Apple is still the chancellor of the University of Hawaii at Manoa, according to a University of Hawaii spokeswoman and an attorney hired by Apple, refuting multiple news reports of his imminent departure. Pacific Business News.

Supporters of Tom Apple are coming to his defense, saying he should not be ousted as Chancellor of the University of Hawaii at Manoa. The head of the faculty union UHPA, J.N. Musto, said Apple was given notice by UH President David Lassner that Apple will be replaced. KHON2.

Nearly 1,000 voters cast ballots Monday on Oahu as walk-in absentee polling sites opened. Star-Advertiser.

Walk-in Absentee and Early Voting started today at two sites on Oahu. Hawaii Public Radio.

Speeding cars, pedestrian fatalities and crime are top concerns for Honolulu City Council candidates in the race to represent District 8, the heavily suburban area of central Oahu where housing developments and strip malls proliferate. Civil Beat.

It's a breathtaking view from the pillboxes at Lanikai. But is it safe with people standing on top of it and the giant block of concrete is deteriorating? Hawaii News Now.

Starting in late August or early September, those traveling past the storefronts and homes lining the busy east-west corridor from Kapa­hulu Avenue to the H-1 freeway will find new designated bike lanes and "sharrows" — painted arrows along the street shoulder for bicyclists to share the road. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

PAC mismailing baffles council candidates. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County Council candidate RJ Hampton berated primary election opponent Tiffany Edwards-Hunt during a candidate forum organized by the Puna Pono Alliance on Saturday night, before she herself stormed out of the event. Big Island Video News.

A site dedication ceremony for the Thirty Meter Telescope will be held in October, the TMT International Observatory Board of Directors confirmed today. Tribune-Herald.

Canadian businessman Stephen Petasky plans to transform a roughly 5.5-acre vacant lot at the Mauna Lani Resort into a luxury residential community that seamlessly unites modern technology and style with traditional Hawaiian culture and beauty. West Hawaii Today.

Volunteers lead charge to renovate Kaipalaoa Landing. Tribune-Herald.

Opinion: ‘Ban’ on Trucking Rubbish to West Hawaii is a Myth. Big Island Now.

Maui

Two Filipino leaders will share their experiences Tuesday evening of organizing and empowering communities to take control of their health, workplace and food systems, according to an announcement. Maui News.

A Maui County Council committee will take up a bill this afternoon to ban polystyrene food containers, a measure similar to a plastic grocery bag ban that took effect in 2011. Maui News.

Governor Neil Abercrombie announced the release of $3.5 million for renovations at the University of Hawaiʻi Maui College. Maui Now.
Kauai

Over the next two weeks, county voters will make their voices heard by either visiting one of the 16 designated polling locations to cast their ballots on Aug. 9 or sending in their absentee ballots through the mail. Garden Island.

Mason Chock admits that he is not one of the more vocal member on the Kauai County Council. But there’s a method to it. Garden Island.

Kids Count ranks Hawaii middling, more sign on to Obamacare, Honolulu police and fire helicopters grounded by bankruptcy, Morita sued for bed and breakfast, Caldwell endorses Abercrombie, vets to help Takai, wave energy planned, feds to ban bee-killing pesticide in Hawaii wildlife refuges, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hula girls in Hawaii ©2014 All Hawaii News

Overall, the Aloha State placed in the middle of the pack, like last year, at 25th out of 50 states in rankings released Tuesday by the Annie E. Casey Foundation. The KIDS COUNT Data Book gauges the welfare of kids using 16 measures in the categories of economic well-being, education, health and family/community. Star-Advertiser.

The rate of people without health insurance in Hawaii has dropped below 6 percent since the implementation of the federal health care law, state officials said Monday. Officials said at a joint House committee briefing that roughly 75,000 people in Hawaii don’t have health insurance, down from well over 100,000 last year. Associated Press.

The state Office of Information Management and Technology told lawmakers at a Monday briefing it plans to create a single portal at Hawaii.gov that will help direct consumers to either Medicaid, the government insurance program for low-income residents, or the Hawaii Health Connector, the troubled online exchange created by President Barack Obama’s Affordable Care Act. Star-Advertiser.

With the Aug. 9 primary fast approaching and the Nov. 4 general election not far behind, Civil Beat asked the top gubernatorial candidates what they thought about the issue of accessing public records in Hawaii. We interviewed the incumbent, Gov. Neil Abercrombie, and his Democratic primary opponent, state Sen. David Ige. We also talked to the expected Republican challenger this fall, former Lt. Gov. Duke Aiona. A spokesman for Hawaii Independent Party candidate Mufi Hannemann said the candidate couldn’t fit in an interview, and questions submitted to the campaign were not answered.  Civil Beat.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell on Monday endorsed Gov. Neil Abercrombie for re-election, stressing an improved relationship between Hono­lulu Hale and Washington Place. Star-Advertiser.

In a symbolic and theatric display, Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell and Governor Neil Abercrombie met in the middle of the Punchbowl Street crosswalk Monday as a sign of unity between Honolulu Hale and the State Capitol. Hawaii News Now.

Opinion: Matters of church and the state are traditionally separated in the United States, but not always. There is a current push by some conservative Christians in Hawaii to urge pastors to speak out from the pulpit in support of gubernatorial hopeful James “Duke” Aiona and other so-called “family values” Republican candidates. Civil Beat.

Most of the candidates running for Hawaii’s First Congressional District – minus Senate President Donna Mercado-Kim -- appeared before a group of nearly 300 realtors today. Hawaii Public Radio.

19 days before the primary election, Congressional District 1 candidates participated in a forum, with one notable exception. Donna Mercado Kim had to pass due to a conflict with a scheduled commercial shoot. Hawaii News Now.

VoteVets.org and its Vote Vets Action Fund will blitz the television airwaves in the next week or so with $100,000 in advertisements in support of 1st Congressional District candidate Mark Takai, the national political action committee is expected to announce Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Federal wildlife refuges in the Northwest and Hawaii will phase out a class of pesticides that are chemically similar to nicotine because they pose a threat to bees and other pollinators key to crop growth. The region covering Oregon, Washington, Idaho and Hawaii is the first in the agency to ban neonicotinoids. Associated Press.

Oahu

Honolulu Fire Department and Honolulu Police Department helicopters remained on the ground on Monday with both departments suspending routine flight operations. The city made the drastic move after learning the company that’s been maintaining the police and fire helicopters is filing for bankruptcy, and is no longer insured. KHON2.

Those who want to restore the deteriorating Waikiki War Memorial Natatorium dominated a meeting Monday night designed to gather public input on what impacts the city must consider before it can proceed with an environmental study on the proposed demolition of the historic structure. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Department of Health on Monday began posting brand new color-coded placards in restaurants across the state that will let diners know whether they have passed safety inspections. Pacific Business News.

Starting on Monday, the state Department of Health is posting new color-coded placards at Oahu restaurants to display health inspection status. Star-Advertiser.

The bill in July for a typical household using 600 kilowatt-hours a month went up from June by more than a dollar to $217.24, according to data released Monday by Hawaiian Electric Cos., the state's largest utility provider with service to Oahu, Maui and Hawaii island. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii first state to plug into wave energy. Power buoy to connect to Marine Corp Base Kaneohe. KITV4.

The University of Hawaii says the U.S. Navy is investing $9 million more in a Kaneohe wave energy development project. The university said Monday the funds will help the Manoa campus' Hawaii Natural Energy Institute conduct additional underwater surveys with its partner Sea Engineering Inc. Star-Advertiser.

A former guard at the Halawa Correctional Facility accused of smuggling methamphetamine into the prison is expected to plead guilty. Associated Press.

The war over aerial banners in Oahu's skies escalated Monday afternoon with Hono­lulu police arresting the pilot of an Aerial Banners North airplane at Dillingham Air Field. Star-Advertiser.

Gunky, rodent-filled brown water caused by last weekend's storm has kept untold thousands of people out of the ocean and cost Hale­iwa's Surf N Sea revenue in the form of lost kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The county Department of Finance is taking a dim view of a proposal by Kohala Councilwoman Margaret Wille to give some homeowners a bigger tax break on their primary residence. West Hawaii Today.

Golfers will get a look at proposed changes for the Hilo Municipal Golf Course at a meeting today. Hawaii County Department of Parks and Recreation staff will provide a presentation as well as seek input on the improvements now in the design phase. Tribune-Herald.

The first group of 21 inmates arrived this morning at the newly reopened Kulani Correctional Facility. Big Island Now.

Maui

The environment is the economy" is a refrain frequently heard in this year's campaigns. In the 2014 Primary Election, environmental issues are in the spotlight more than ever before. Maui Weekly.

A public meeting to discuss a plan to address an anticipated $13 million budget shortfall for state hospitals, including Maui Memorial Medical Center, will be held at 5 p.m. Wednesday in the hospital's auditorium. Maui News.

Kauai

Hanalei resident Michael Sheehan is suing Hawaii Public Utilities Commission Chair Hermina Morita and her husband for damaging his property and polluting the Hanalei River, as well as the County of Kauai for conspiring to cover up the couple’s illegal activity. Garden Island.

A second water safety officer has filed a suit against the county and Kauai Fire Department for retaliation. The plaintiff, Carl Ragasa Jr., is with the Ocean Safety Bureau. He filed his complaint in U.S. District Court for the District of Hawaii on July 7. He is represented by the Honolulu firm of Agsalda and Fukui. Garden Island.

Hawaii Supreme Court sides with media in court closing dispute, Honolulu rail to link airport, Waikiki, Maui mayoral candidate arrested at forum, China plays war games at RIMPAC, feds audit Hawaii Dems, RNC sees hope in Hawaii, Aiona unveils housing plan, last Hanabusa-Schatz TV debate tonight, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Supreme Court ©2014 All Hawaii News

The Hawaii Supreme Court overwhelmingly ruled Wednesday that a circuit judge improperly denied the public and the media access to the first Christopher Deedy murder trial, in a decision that the plaintiffs' attorney says has wide repercussions for criminal proceedings statewide. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Supreme Court ruled that a judge improperly closed her court and sealed transcripts during a murder trial against a federal agent. Associated Press.

The Federal Election Commission is auditing the Democratic Party of Hawaii after flagging multiple discrepancies with the party’s federal campaign finance reports during the 2012 election cycle. The commission voted in September to undertake the probe, and auditors are still gathering information from the party, sources familiar with the process say.  Star-Advertiser.

As part of its efforts to expand the map, the Republican National Committee is announcing that its putting additional staff in Hawaii and Oregon, two blue states the GOP hopes to put in play this November. Thanks to a divisive Democratic gubernatorial primary in Hawaii, the party committee thinks that seat may now be in play. CNN political ticker.

Former Lt. Gov. James “Duke” Aiona would divert 25 percent of the money collected by the state’s corporate income tax to the rental housing trust fund, hoping to create a financing pool to build more affordable rentals. Star-Advertiser.

In the reporting period that ran from Jan. 1 through June 30, Lt. Gov. Shan Tsutsui raised nearly nearly three times what his Democratic primary challenger Clayton Hee did, or $356,000 to $122,000. Civil Beat.

Commentary: If the 2014 Hawaii races go the way the state’s elections usually do, here are the results: Brian Schatz wins the U.S. Senate Democratic primary.  Whoever wins that Democratic primary overwhelms the Republican challenger. The winner of the 1st Congressional District’s Democratic primary defeats Republican Charles Djou. In the 2nd Congressional District Tulsi Gabbard wins virtually by default against a Republican whose name no one remembers. Neil Abercrombie is re-elected governor. Civil Beat.

Hawaii News Now and the Honolulu Star-Advertiser will host the final statewide, prime-time debate between Democratic Party U.S. Senate Candidates 7 p.m. Thursday night, July 17, on all three Hawaii News Now stations: KGMB, KHNL and KFVE.

China has been boarding ships looking for mock pirates and contraband as it joins the world's largest maritime exercises for the first time. On Wednesday, Chinese sailors from the destroyer Haikou boarded the Coast Guard cutter Waesche for a drill checking cargo as part of Rim of the Pacific exercises the U.S. is hosting in Hawaii waters this month. Associated Press.

Commentary: As part of the joint military RIMPAC exercise, the U.S. Navy’s “Great Green Fleet,” along with warships from the 21 other participating nations, have fired on and sunk two retired U.S. naval vessels off the coast of Kauai. Hawaii Independent.

The state Land Use Commission is one member closer to being able to meet again thanks to Gov. Neil Abercrombie’s decision Wednesday to appoint Jonathan Scheuer on an interim basis. Civil Beat.

A Senate Committee continued its investigation of alleged misconduct at the State Hospital.   Top administrators were ordered to testify today under oath on a number of issues. Hawaii Public Radio.

Visitor arrivals by cruise ships for the first five months were down 26 percent from the same period last year, according to the latest monthly visitor statistics released by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Pacific Business News.

Oahu
Oahu's future rail transit system will wind its way through the middle of Honolulu Airport — dropping off and picking up thousands of passengers and airport workers at a central station there, newly unveiled designs reveal. Star-Advertiser.

The city hopes to reconfigure the financial plan for the $5.2 billion Honolulu rail project to make sure that tens of millions of dollars in federal funds traditionally used to replace aging city buses and Handi-Vans isn’t diverted for rail construction. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART) unveiled plans for the rail station at Honolulu International Airport and also revealed plans for adding bus routes to Waikiki. Hawaii News Now.

A measure now before the Honolulu City Council takes aim at commercial activities that are not allowed in a residential community. KHON2.

A former school clerk was sentenced to probation and jail Tuesday for stealing $19,750 from an Oahu public charter school. West Hawaii Today.

The defense attorney for federal agent Christopher Deedy on Wednesday attacked the credibility of the first officer to respond to the fatal 2011 shooting, hoping to undercut the officer's assertion that Deedy, the shooter, appeared intoxicated. Star-Advertiser.

Bob Benyo, president of Aerial Banners North, says he is ready to fight in court for his companyʻs right to keep towing advertising banners over Oahu. Civil Beat.

Kapolei residents will get some answers on how truckloads of contaminated dirt from Radford High School wound up in their neighborhood. Hawaii News Now.

It's rising behind a construction screen now and doesn't look like much, but when a new Walgreens on Keeaumoku Street opens in February it will be unlike any drugstore ever seen in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Former County Clerk Jamae Kawauchi was cleared by the Board of Ethics on Wednesday to represent a client before the Windward Planning Commission, ending six months of delays for a Hawaiian Acres farmers market. West Hawaii Today.

A bill expanding agricultural tourism was one of the first measures introduced by Puna Councilman Zendo Kern when he took office in late 2012. After numerous delays, it may become among his last to clear the County Council before he leaves. West Hawaii Today.

A maddening recording of a Comcast customer service phone call that went viral on the Internet this week was one of two concerns presented Wednesday at a public hearing in Hilo regarding the merger of Comcast and Oceanic Time Warner Cable. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui mayoral candidate Nelson N. Waikiki Jr. was arrested on Tuesday night following a mayoral candidate forum in Makawao. The 49-year-old was located at the Seabury Hall campus on Olinda Road, where he was placed under arrest for allegedly violating conditions of release on bail, police said. Maui Now.

Following his arrest Tuesday night after a candidate forum at Seabury Hall, mayoral candidate Nelson Waikiki Jr. appeared Wednesday morning in 2nd Circuit Court for a hearing on allegations that he failed to comply with conditions of his release in his criminal case. Maui News.

For the first time this election season, Maui residents heard from all six mayoral candidates, including incumbent Mayor Alan Arakawa, during a forum hosted Tuesday by Upcountry community associations. Maui News.

A one year report will be released on Friday for the state’s first community fisheries enforcement unit, which operates in the waters around North Maui. Maui Now.

Kauai

A lawsuit demanding Hawaii Dairy Farms complete an environmental assessment for its proposed dairy in Mahaulepu Valley has added fuel to a fiery situation. Garden Island.

It has been four years since County of Kauai officials acquired a 75-arce piece of land in Eleele from the McBryde Sugar Company to plan what some housing officials say is one of the county’s most ambitious affordable housing projects. But in the years since then, ground hasn’t been broken on the now barren land set aside for the project. Garden Island.

There’s a major energy transformation happening on Kauai. Garden Island.

The Fourth of July fire that torched a portion of the Coco Palms Resort was classified as undetermined Wednesday by those investigating the cause. Garden Island.