Feds probe rail, Ige-Green inauguration today, Gabbard stumps in New Hampshire, but coy on presidential plans, preschool kids served Pine-Sol, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu rail guide-way detail PC:HART

Federal inquiry linked to rail. Federal investigators are taking an interest in Hono­lulu’s $9 billion rail project, but it is unclear what has attracted their attention. Star-Advertiser.

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

Governor David Ige, Lt. Governor-elect Josh Green to be sworn-in Monday. KHON2.

Ige will start his last four years as governor with a new partner. This year, the governor chose to have his inauguration at the Rotunda at the State Capitol. KITV.

Testing the waters in New Hampshire, Tulsi Gabbard ‘seriously thinking’ about presidential bid. Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard made multiple stops this weekend in the state that holds the first primary in the race for the White House — sparking further speculation that she’s considering a run for the Democratic presidential nomination. Star-Advertiser.

Tulsi Gabbard For President? ‘I Am Seriously Considering It’. Speculation has been mounting, but at an appearance in New Hampshire she said she’s thinking of how she can “best be of service to the people of this country.” Civil Beat.

Case wraps up orientation, eyes campaign finance reform. Congressman-Elect Ed Case is a freshman by title. But after serving in more than two terms in the mid-2000s, he’s familiar with the way Washington works, and his fellow freshman members know it. KITV.

Oysters Could Help Clean Hawaii's Polluted Waterways. Some of Hawaii's most polluted waterways may soon get help from an unlikely source: oysters. After a successful test project in Pearl Harbor, the Hawaiian Islands branch of the Waterkeeper Alliance is seeking to expand the use of oyster colonies to clean polluted waters. Hawaii Public Radio.

State Claims ‘Dramatic’ Improvement In Adult Home Care Oversight. But in the face of a harsh audit of the program last week, some lawmakers were skeptical that there has been such a swift turnaround. Civil Beat.

Want To Teach In Hawaii? The Job Often Comes With A Big Pay Cut. Teachers from the mainland get credit for only a few years of seniority, creating another challenge in efforts to address Hawaii’s teacher shortage. Civil Beat.

Oahu

City rolls out new transit card pilot program. The first passengers on Honolulu’s new rail system won’t take that inaugural ride for another two years, but the initial elements of the system like the new HOLO card are coming to life. Hawaii News Now.

East Oahu preschool students mistakenly served Pine-Sol. Students were mistakenly served Pine-Sol instead of apple juice, according to a report released by the state Department of Health. It happened Tuesday at Kilohana United Methodist Church Preschool. KHON2.

$800,000 Honolulu home median considered modest. When Honolulu’s median sale price for single-family homes punched through the $800,000 ceiling in August, the big round number stunned many prospective homebuyers. Star-Advertiser.

Native Hawaiian graduation rate triples at University of Hawaii at Manoa. Native Hawaiian and Filipino students are graduating on time at record rates from the University of Hawaii at Manoa, with Hawaiians tripling their level since 2010, according to the latest data. Star-Advertiser.

A volunteer group has obtained city approval to build a 1-acre public playground at Ala Moana Regional Park that includes miniature zip lines, slides, swings and a splash pad. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu City Councilwoman Ann Kobayashi wants the city to look into placing a motor sports racetrack on a portion of a historic field that the Navy is planning to transfer to the city. Star-Advertiser.

Don’t Expect To See Those Green E-Scooters Again Anytime Soon. Lime’s electric scooter fleet was pulled from Honolulu streets earlier this year. Hawaii’s vehicle code needs changes for them to return. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii Island is gaining people, but they’re not coming from the rest of the state. In fact, between 2012 and 2016, the Big Island lost an estimated 2,362 people annually to the other three counties in Hawaii, while adding just 1,654, according to data released Tuesday by the U.S. Census Bureau. West Hawaii Today.

UH-Hilo to offer career path for airline pilots and drone operators. A new bachelor’s degree in aeronautical sciences at the University of Hawaii at Hilo could start training students to become commercial pilots or operators of unmanned aircraft as soon as next year. Star-Advertiser.

About a dozen Puna residents offered their suggestions, as well as complaints, to Hawaii County representatives Thursday evening during the first of what is expected to be several talk-story sessions regarding recovery from the Kilauea eruption. Tribune-Herald.

Parade, lava museum revive hopes for Pahoa’s future. Saturday’s eclectic Pahoa Holiday Parade — the 25th to run down Pahoa Village Road through the heart of the small rural town — carried the hopes of a community still struggling in the aftermath of Kilauea Volcano’s destructive eruption this year. Star-Advertiser.

Big Island: Back in Business. Vivid images of volcanic eruptions captured the world’s attention this year, but frightened off visitors. Hawaii Public Radio.

Aggressive pigs becoming a nuisance at some state parks. A visit to Hawaii Island’s state parks provides a close encounter with nature — sometimes, a bit too close for comfort. Tribune-Herald.

Funds frozen as groups grapple for control of Hawaiian Ranchos Road Maintenance Corporation. West Hawaii Today.

State Investigates Big Island Biofuel Plant For Discharging Wastewater. There is no public health threat from the discharge at the facility, which expects to start generating power by burning wood sometime in December. Civil Beat.

Hu Honua takes exception to Hawaii DOH comments in violation notice. The Hu Honua biomass power plant on Hawaii's Big Island, which is currently under construction, is taking exception to comments made by state Department of Health Director Bruce Anderson in a press release Friday that alleged Hu Honua Bioenergy LLC personnel caused an unauthorized discharge of industrial wastewater on Nov. 9. Pacific Business News.

Maui

New Trial Ordered for Maui Man Arrested During Telescope Protest. The Hawaii Intermediate Court of Appeals on Thursday vacated an obstruction conviction by a Maui jury of a native Hawaiian who was protesting the construction of the Daniel K Inouye Solar Telescope atop Haleakala in August 2015. Maui Now.

Water ruling shouldn’t affect W. Maui supply. Department says flow is sufficient, working on new supply sources. The county water department said Friday that there should be sufficient flow in the Kanaha Stream — 90 percent of the time — to meet needs of Lahaina customers and to comply with the state water commission’s order last week to restore 550,000 gallons of water per day to the stream. Maui News.

‘We have no choice’. Climate expert: State has to reach for renewable energy goals. Maui News.

Maui scores high marks in visitor satisfaction from nearly all regions. Japanese tourists, though, seem a bit harder to please. Maui News.

Meeting will explore using oysters to improve water quality in harbor. Maui News.

Kauai

The public is invited to attend the inauguration of Mayor-elect Derek Kawakami and the Kauai County Councilmembers-elect, scheduled for today. Garden Island.

In one of the last remaining duties of being the mayor, Bernard Carvalho Jr. presented $500,000 of state grants Friday to six nonprofits for work they are doing for flood recovery on the North Shore. Garden Island.

KEMA unveils new 18-screen video wall in Emergency Operations Center. Garden Island.

The Kauai County Housing Agency held a blessing for the Lima Ola affordable housing project in Eleele last Monday. The county has also secured a total of $19 million of funding for the project. Garden Island.

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

Hawaiian Airlines at Honolulu airport ©2018 All Hawaii News

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Oahu

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hawaii Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Maui

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

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

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

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

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

Kauai

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

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

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

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

Hawaii Election Central: Hawaii retains deep blue hue, but sends a Republican to state Senate, Ige easily wins re-election as governor, new mayors for Maui and Kauai, final vote counts, election news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. David Ige and Lt. Gov. Josh Green ©2018 All Hawaii News

Final election results from the state Office of Elections is here.

Gov. David Ige easily clinched another term as governor Tuesday night, finishing the race with a six-figure vote advantage over his Republican opponent, state Rep. Andria Tupola. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. David Ige has won his bid for re-election, fighting off a general election challenge from Republican state Rep. Andria Tupola. Hawaii News Now.

Ige Cruises To Re-Election As Governor. Incumbent Gov. David Ige and his running mate, Josh Green, easily defeated GOP challengers Andria Tupola and Marissa Kerns in Hawaii’s gubernatorial election. Civil Beat.

Gov. David Ige on Tuesday won re-election to a second term after defeating Republican state Rep. Andria Tupola as the Democratic Party continued to dominate Hawaii politics. Associated Press.

Democratic Governor of Hawaii David Ige has been reelected, alongside the next Lieutenant Governor, Josh Green, following Tuesday night’s general election victory. Big Island Video News.

Gov. David Ige wins re-election, Josh Green to serve as lieutenant governor. KHON2.

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U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono and U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard easily won re-election Tuesday, and former U.S. Rep. Ed Case also is headed back to Congress, ensuring an all-Democratic delegation for the islands once again. Star-Advertiser.

Case cruises to victory in race for Congress; Hirono, Gabbard easily win re-election bids. After beating out a crowded field of Democrats in the primary election, former U.S. Rep. Ed Case easily clinched his congressional bid Tuesday night. Hawaii News Now.

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Hawaii Democrats maintain their dominance but GOP picks up a state Senate seat. Republican Kurt Fevella beat Democratic rival Matt LoPresti late Tuesday night to fill the open Senate seat representing Ewa and Ewa Beach, giving the Republican Party a surprise turnaround in what was otherwise an evening of Democratic sweeps. Star-Advertiser.

Democrats Keep Their Tight Lock On The Legislature. Republicans, who currently hold only five House seats and no Senate seats, appear poised to grab one Senate seat. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Republicans retain 5 seats in state House. The seat that represents portions of Mililani went to a Republican newcomer. Hawaii News Now.

Two of the three Hawaii teachers who jumped into politics this year are headed from the classroom to the state House. Star-Advertiser.

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Longtime OHA Trustee Akana Loses Re-Election Bid. Rowena Akana has served on the Office of Hawaiian Affairs Board of Trustees for more than two decades but recently came under fire for alleged misspending. Civil Beat.

Longest-running OHA trustee, facing charges of ethics violations, fails in re-election bid. Hawaii News Now.


Waihee, Lindsey, Akaka win OHA races. Two members of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs board of trustees will keep their positions with a new face coming to represent the island of Oahu. West Hawaii Today.

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Hawaii voters say ‘no’ to constitutional convention. Hawaii overwhelmingly voted down a proposed constitutional convention Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

A proposal to convene a state constitutional convention was soundly defeated Tuesday night. Tuesday’s balloting showed continued resistance to a ConCon, with over 70 percent voting “no” or leaving the question blank, which counted as a “no” vote. Star-Advertiser.

ConCon Is Gone Gone — Voters Reject State Constitutional Convention. It was a once-a-decade chance for the public to go over the heads of the Legislature, but the measure was opposed by public employee unions. Civil Beat.

Hawaii voters find short lines, few problems at general election polling sites. Hawaii News Now.

Democratic Party of Hawaii says the work begins now, after election victories. KITV.

Oahu

Ozawa Edges Waters In Tight Race For Honolulu City Council Seat. Councilman Trevor Ozawa received 22 more votes than challenger Tommy Waters in a contest that went down to the wire. Civil Beat.

Honolulu City Councilman Trevor Ozawa pulled off a 22-vote victory over former state Rep. Tommy Waters to win reelection to the Council District 4 (East Honolulu) seat, according to a final summary report issued by the state Office of Elections at 4:11 a.m. today. Star-Advertiser.

Councilman Trevor Ozawa edges over Tommy Waters for city council seat. KHON2.

One of the hottest races this general election is for the City Council seat that represents east Honolulu — and it’s proving to be a really tight race. Hawaii News Now.

Voters Shooting Down HART Board Charter Amendment. The proposal would have made it easier for the board overseeing the Honolulu rail project to take action. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Rebecca Villegas will be the new face of Kona on the County Council. With all four precincts reporting Tuesday night, Villegas had 2,920 votes, or 56.6 percent, overpowering Kelly Drysdale for the seat vacated by Dru Kanuha. West Hawaii Today.

Rebecca Villegas will be taking a seat on the Hawaii County Council, after defeating runoff opponent Kelly Drysdale in Tuesday night’s general election. Big Island Video News.

Facing slim competition from challengers, Hawaii Democrats appeared poised to handily win all Big Island House seats Tuesday night. Tribune-Herald.

New names assume state office in West Hawaii. Dru Kanuha, three-time District 7 county councilman, made the leap to the state Senate, capturing the District 3 seat vacated by Hawaii’s newly elected Lieutenant Governor, Josh Green. David Tarnas, who served two terms in the state House of Representatives from 1994-98, will assume the District 7 House seat after a hard fought primary rematch against eight-time incumbent, Cindy Evans, and a victory in the general over Republican Tom Belekanich by a total of 6,424 votes to 1,932 votes. West Hawaii Today.

County charter amendments pass. Hawaii Island residents voted Tuesday for more oversight over raises for county officials. Another charter amendment requiring ballot initiatives that would change the charter to be accompanied with a fiscal impact statement also passed with 81 percent in favor. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Mike Victorino defeats Elle Cochran to become Maui County's next mayor. KHON2.

In the Maui mayor's race, County Council veteran Mike Victorino led Elle Cochran 54.1 percent to 43.3 percent. Civil Beat.

In a closely watched proposal to toughen penalties for operating illegal short-term vacation rentals, Maui voters were strongly favoring a measure to increase penalties for operating unpermitted short-term vacation rentals. Civil Beat.

Voter Turnout Down, Maui at 52%. In Maui County total turnout was 50,475 or 52.2% of the 96,721 registered voters. This included 23,093 or 23.9% who turned out at the polls, and 27,382 or 28.3% who cast absentee ballots. Maui Now.

Kauai

Derek Kawakami ready to work as Kauai County's new mayor. Kauai will be seeing a lot of changes and Tuesday night will be the deciding factor. KHON2.

In the race for Kauai mayor, former state Rep. Derek Kawakami led County Council Chairman Mel Rapozo 65.1 percent to 30.9 percent. Civil Beat.

Rapozo falls short in mayoral race. Garden Island.

County overwhelmingly votes to keep term limits. Here is how Kauai voted on seven ballot questions. Garden Island.

Outgoing Kauai Mayor Carvalho Jr. discusses his next move. KHON2.

Chronic absenteeism in Hawaii schools, Honolulu rents drop, constitutional questions emerge, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii classroom, courtesy Department of Education

A quarter of isle public schools have high rates of chronic absenteeism. More than one-fourth of public schools in Hawaii have high or "extreme" rates of chronic absenteeism, according to a new national report. Hawaii News Now.

Panel To Study Constitutional Convention Question Before Election. The citizens group will release a list of pros and cons just weeks before voters decide the issue in November. Civil Beat.

Large sums of cash help major candidates, but not necessarily those backed by super PACs. The winners of the Democratic and Republican party nominations for governor and lieutenant governor in last month’s primary election all outspent their opponents on their way to victory, with state Sen. Josh Green becoming the first lieutenant governor candidate in Hawaii to spend more than $1 million in the effort. Star-Advertiser.

Brett Kavanaugh No Friend Of Special Rights For Native Hawaiians. Trump’s Supreme Court nominee once called the Office of Hawaiian Affairs a “naked racial spoils system.” Civil Beat.

Norman strengthens to a major hurricane as it continues west toward Hawaii. Packing maximum sustained winds of 115 mph, Norman was about 480 miles east of Hilo and 670 miles east of Honolulu and heading west at 12 mph at 5 a.m. today, according to the Central Pacific Hurricane Center. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

An ongoing dispute over the use of state-owned beachfront land in Kahala is heading to the Board of Land and Natural Resources next week. Hawaii Public Radio.

Erosion at a Makaha shoreline is gobbling up the beach and threatening homes. Hawaii News Now.

Three city and county of Honolulu parks will close beginning Wednesday, September 5. Old Stadium Park, Moilili Community Park and Crane Community Park will shut down for two months. KHON2.

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve will be closing an hour early starting Wednesday as it switches over to its winter schedule. Star-Advertiser.

Affordable units make up 20% of new Waikiki rental tower. The developer of a planned rental apartment tower in Waikiki has given the project a name and increased the length of time homes would be affordable to residents earning less than the median income. Star-Advertiser.

A new 455-unit development being built on Kuhio Avenue in Waikiki will offer 91 affordable rental units. KITV.

Can A Woman Who Lost Her Arm In A Lab Explosion Sue UH? The University of Hawaii Manoa contends the former postdoctoral fellow must seek relief through the workers’ compensation system. Civil Beat.

United Airlines catering workers in Honolulu and four other cities will vote on whether to unionize this month after gaining federal approval to hold the election. Civil Beat.

Remnants from Lane lengthen timeline for Kuhio Highway emergency repairs. Hawaii News Now.

Babysitter accused of child sex assault found dead in Laie. Star-Advertiser.

Waikiki Aquarium’s resident monk seal dies at 34. One of the Waikiki Aquarium’s two resident Hawaiian monk seals has died, aquarium officials announced this morning. Star-Advertiser.

Median rent for 2BR apartments in Honolulu drops 8%. Rents in Honolulu have declined over the past year by between 1 percent and 8 percent, respectively, according to two September market reports by Apartment List and Zumper. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii Island property owners could end up paying an extra $75 million annually if a constitutional amendment passes that would allow the state to carve off a piece of county property taxes for public education. West Hawaii Today.

Jaggar Museum Artifacts Being Moved to Pahoa. Mainstreet Pahoa Association’s Board of Directors reports that they are in discussions with Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, in cooperation with Mainstreet Pahoa Association, in allowing the contents of the world renowned Jaggar Museum in the park to be transferred to Pahoa and be housed for temporary exhibit in the newly renovated building next door to Kaleo’s Restaurant. Big Island Now.

Kilauea’s sulfur dioxide emissions drop to lowest level in 11 years. Between Kilauea summit, the lower East Rift Zone and Puu Oo, sulfur dioxide emission rates have dropped to less than 1,000 tons per day, the lowest since 2007. Tribune-Herald.

Lava access draws tourists, locals. Tourists and locals trickled into the gated MacKenzie State Recreation Area to get a closer look at the cooled aa lava flow during the recent lull in the spectacular lower East Rift Zone eruption. Star-Advertiser.

Input sought for proposed Maunakea rules. Residents will get a chance to weigh in later this month on proposed rules for public and commercial activities at Maunakea lands managed by the University of Hawaii. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

A statue of Queen Liliuokalani will be dedicated Friday morning a the Fairmont Kea Lani in Wailea. Maui News.

Hotel workers rally on Kaanapali Beach for higher wages, contract. Union members working to get a contract: About 200 marched in the Labor Day rally Monday. Maui News.

Professor will detail causes of stress to Maui’s reefs and ways to aid recovery. Maui News.

Seven Airlifted from Iao During Swift Water Rescue. Maui Now.

Young children among those rescued from Iao Valley State Park due to rising water. KHON2.


Kauai

Charter Amendment questions on the Nov. 6 ballot. Taking ownership of your government, means understanding the items upon which you are called upon to vote on. Garden Island.

With the Animal Balance sterilization project in full swing, teams of trappers are canvassing the Lihue and Kapaa areas for community cats. Garden Island.

Goose has been wintering on Kauai for 18 years. Garden Island.

Lanai

Lanai island continued posting double-digit increases in visitor arrivals and spending in July, a trend that has been ongoing at least since the beginning of this year, Hawai’i Tourism Authority monthly statistics show. Maui News.

It's Ige, Tupola, Green, Case. Plus three incumbents toppled in Legislature, final official results for all counties, more primary election news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. David Ige at election eve grand rally ©2018 All Hawaii News

Final statewide results here.

Ige defeats Hanabusa, will face Tupola in November. In a stunning reversal of political fortunes, Gov. David Ige brushed off opposition from much of Hawaii’s Democratic establishment Saturday on his way to defeating his top rival, U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa. Star-Advertiser.

Ige Defeats Hanabusa In Democratic Primary For Governor. Incumbent Hawaii Gov. David Ige will be heavily favored in the general election against the GOP nominee, state Rep. Andria Tupola. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Gov. David Ige won the Democratic primary in his bid for a second term in office Saturday, defeating U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa, who gave up her seat in Congress to run for governor. Associated Press.

Incumbent David Ige fought off a fierce challenge from U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa on Saturday night to win the Democratic primary race for governor in his bid for a second term. Hawaii News Now.

Gubernatorial candidate Colleen Hanabusa cedes race, asks supports to vote Ige next. KITV.


Tupola Wins GOP Primary For Governor. The state lawmaker defeated perennial GOP candidate John Carroll and former DOE official Ray L’Heureux. Civil Beat.
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Green’s well-funded campaign outpaces fellow senator Tokuda. State Sen. Josh Green edged out his Senate colleague Jill Tokuda Saturday, in the five-way Democratic race to be Hawaii’s next lieutenant governor. Star-Advertiser.

Josh Green Prevails In Democratic Lieutenant Governor Race. Super PAC funding helped state Sen. Josh Green gain a significant advertising edge over state Sen. Jill Tokuda in the lead-up to the election. Civil Beat.

State Sen. Josh Green won the Democratic primary for lieutenant governor on Saturday night, emerging as the top vote-getter in a crowded field of seasoned politicians. Hawaii News Now.

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In the hotly contested 1st congressional district primary race, late entry Ed Case soundly defeated his opponents in Democratic Party voting today. Star-Advertiser.

Ed Case Wins 1st Congressional District Primary Race. U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard easily wins the Democratic nomination for the 2nd Congressional District. Civil Beat.
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Three incumbents in the state Legislature, one in the Senate and two in the House, lost their Capitol jobs after nearly all of the votes were counted in Saturday’s primary election. Star-Advertiser.

3 Incumbent Lawmakers Lose State Legislative Seats. Sen. Brickwood Galuteria, as well as Reps. Cindy Evans and Lei Learmont, lost their re-election efforts. Civil Beat.

19 incumbents secure seats after running unopposed in the primary. KHON2.

OHA Candidates Headed To General Election Runoff. Kalei Akaka and Esther Kia‘aina will face off for the Oahu trustee seat while three incumbents advance with three challengers to November. And three incumbents trustees — John Waihee IV, Lei Ahu Isa and Rowena Akana — will face three challengers for the three at-large positions on the OHA board. Civil Beat.

Commentary: Humble pie on the menu at post-election Unity Breakfast. There are bound to be some awkward moments at the Democratic Party’s Unity Breakfast this morning. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Final Oahu results here.

Incumbent Riviere beats Hee for Senate seat representing North Shore, Windward areas. Hawaii News Now.

In surprising twist, challenger beating incumbent in state Senate race. Incumbent Sen. Brickwood Galuteria is behind challenger Sharon Moriwaki. KHON2.

In City Council races, some candidates win outright while others head to runoff. Hawaii News Now.
Tommy Waters and Trevor Ozawa headed to November runoff. Political newcomer Heidi Tsuneyoshi and veteran politician Carol Fukunaga clinched victories in their respective Honolulu City Council races, while Councilman Trevor Ozawa will need to go head-to-head against former state Rep. Tommy Waters in November to win re-election. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Final Hawaii Island results here.

Sen. Lorraine R. Inouye, who represents North Hawaii in the state Senate, defeated challenger Heather Kimball in Saturday night’s Democratic primary. Because no other party fielded candidates in the race for the Senate District 4 seat, Saturday’s primary decides the election. West Hawaii Today.

Dru Kanuha appeared on track to defeat Brenda Ford in a hotly contested case Saturday for the Democratic nomination for the state’s 3rd Senate District. West Hawaii Today.

State Rep. Richard Onishi appeared certain of victory Saturday night, with a significant lead over his sole opponent in the Democratic primary election for House District 3. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County Council incumbents fared well in Saturday’s primary election except in District 4, where Puna Councilwoman Eileen O’Hara was trailing challenger Ashley Kierkiewicz. Tribune-Herald.

Incumbent Councilwoman Maile David easily held her District 6 seat against two challengers Saturday, winning a third term without being forced to a runoff in the general election. West Hawaii Today.

Incumbent Kohala Councilman Tim Richards won his second term Saturday, holding off his lone challenger by claiming 2,531 votes, or 54.16 percent of the vote with all three precincts reporting Saturday night. Challenger Maya Parish won 2,142 votes, and 409 voters left the selection blank. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Final Maui results here.

Former Maui County Council Member Mike Victorino took a strong early lead in the mayor’s race and held on throughout the night to advance to the general election along with Council Member Elle Cochran on Saturday night. Maui News.

Baker leads Amato by 89 votes for Senate seat. Yamashita holds on to slim lead over Lawrence with one precinct still out. Maui News.

Kauai

Final Kauai results here.

Mayoral race: The final readout of the primary election, with 16 of 16 precincts reporting, showed Derek Kawakami with 8,633 votes, Mel Rapozo with 3,925, JoAnn Yukimura with 3,480 and Lenny Rapozo with 1,003. Garden Island.

County Council incumbents were poised to easily move on to November’s general election, holding four of the top five spots with all 16 precincts reporting in Saturday’s primary election. Garden Island.

Hurricane Hector to pass south of Hawaii today, $550M price tag for volcano recovery, super PAC criticisms intensify as election nears, fish return after tourists fled Kauai, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hurricane Hector Wednesday morning, NOAA

Hurricane Hector, a major storm in the Central Pacific, has maintained its strength as it continues churning closer to the islands. At 5 a.m. Wednesday, the storm was packing maximum sustained winds of 125 miles per hour, with occasional higher gusts. Hawaii News Now.

Packing maximum sustained winds of 125 mph this morning, the still-powerful Category 3 Hurricane Hector is well south of the islands and expected to stay on a westward track away from Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Northern fringes of Hector expected to ‘brush the Big Island’. A state of emergency was declared late Tuesday by Hawaii County Managing Director Wil Okabe due to the threat of Hurricane Hector. Tribune-Herald.

Fringes of Hector to Brush Big Island, 73 mph Winds. Maui Now.

Hector may have weakened to a Category Three hurricane, but with maximum sustained near 125 mph, it is still a powerful storm. Big Island Video News.

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Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard Avoids Public Debate/Forum in Primary Election Race. Hawaii’s Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard has made it through two election cycles without facing any of her challengers in a public debate or forum. Hawaii Public Radio.

Four days before the primary election, some candidates are pushing back against a slew of ads paid for by Super PACs. Hawaii News Now.

Super PAC donations draw criticism. Kauai Mayor Bernard Carvalho raised concerns about the influx of super PAC money in the race to be Hawaii’s next lieutenant governor during remarks in the rotunda of the state Capitol on Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

It may be a few days before Hawaii’s primary election, but for Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr., that doesn’t mean he’s slowing his campaign for the lieutenant governor’s seat. Garden Island.

How Martin Hamburger Became A Staple Of Hawaii Politics. A Washington advertising consultant made headway in the islands by helping big-name clients who were willing to poke fun at themselves. Civil Beat.

RIMPAC glitches adjusted on the fly. There’s an old military adage that no battle plan survives first contact with the enemy — and the need to adapt on the fly applies to military exercises such as Rim of the Pacific as well. Star-Advertiser.

After several disasters, Hawaii Foodbank sees its stockpile dwindle. Every day, the Hawaii Foodbank distributes up to 50,000 pounds of food to member agencies who get it to the hungry. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Foodbank in 'urgent need' of supplies following recent natural disasters. The Hawaii Foodbank said it is in “urgent need” of emergency food and monetary donations, following a decrease in summer donations. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Lawsuit over Kakaako condo tower ‘defects’ dismissed. A federal judge in Honolulu has dismissed a lawsuit in which a developer sought more than $75 million in damages from a contractor for alleged construction defects in the ultraluxury Waiea condominium tower in Kakaako. Star-Advertiser.

Settlement talks set to begin in civil rights suit over huge gambling case that failed twice. City attorneys are heading to the bargaining table to try and settle a civil lawsuit over a gambling case that failed twice in court and resulted in state judges scolding deputy prosecutors. Hawaii News Now.

Forensic lab in Hawaii begins long process to identify Korean War remains. Inside a government forensic lab on Oahu are the remains of what are believed to be American soldiers killed in the Korean war. KITV.

The U.S. Army has agreed to restore access to a valley considered sacred on Oahu in a settlement with a Native Hawaiian cultural group. Associated Press.

As thousands of students return to school this month, the Hawaii Department of Transportation announced it will suspend one week of morning road closures as part of its “Beat the School Jam” initiative. Star-Advertiser.

After more than 40 years of creating some of Hawaii's favorite desserts, today is the last day for Saint-Germain and Dee Lite Bakery. KHON2.

Solar permits issued on Oahu fell in July for the second month in a row but are still ahead of the year-earlier period. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Mayor Harry Kim plans to ask the state Legislature for $550 million for disaster recovery following three months of destructive lava flows and earthquakes in the wake of the May 3 eruption of Kilauea volcano. West Hawaii Today.

County spending for lava response tops $5 million. Hawaii County has spent $5.1 million responding to the Kilauea eruption in the past three months. Tribune-Herald.

The County of Hawaii Clerk's Office will close absentee walk-in voting sites at the Pahoa Community Center and the Pahala Community Center on Wednesday, August 8, due to the threat posed by Hurricane Hector. KHON2.

Respected cultural practitioners spoke during Tuesday council committee meeting in support of an appropriate process to name the volcanic Fissure 8 on Kilauea Volcano's lower East Rift Zone. Big Island Video News.

News of a slowdown in the 3-month-old Kilauea volcanic eruption has brought a glimmer of relief to the Big Island’s tourism industry. Star-Advertiser.

Lava flow’s impacts hit Kona and Kohala Coast. While Hawaii island tourism is still up year over year, it experienced a 5 percent drop in visitor arrivals in June. Hotel occupancy also dropped in June by its largest amount in almost five years. Star-Advertiser.

A district on Hawaii’s Big Island is among the top 10 markets where homebuyers look to buy vacation rental properties, according to a report from Vacasa. North Kona, which includes Kailua-Kona, was ranked No. 9 on Vacasa’s list of the top 25 markets for buying a vacation rental. Pacific Business News.

Array of tests zero in on disease afflicting wild horses in Waipio Valley. Around a dozen wild horses in Waipio Valley have died inexplicably and in similar fashion over the last two months. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui re-launching Junk Vehicles Disposal Assistance Program. Under this program, residents will be able to dispose of one vehicle per year at no charge. KHON2.

Along with seat belt, cellphone and speeding violations, police are watching for adults smoking in vehicles occupied by children, as students go back to school this week. Maui News.

Maui’s largest private landowner, Alexander & Baldwin, is selling 313 acres adjacent to Kahului Airport to the state for $8.6 million and the Lahaina Square Shopping Center and adjacent parcels to an unnamed buyer for $11.3 million, the company said in announcing its second-quarter results last week. Maui News.

Kealii Reichel hopes to break ground on his halau’s permanent home in Piiholo next year, the kumu hula said Monday.  Maui News.

Kumu hula plans construction of permanent halau home on Maui next year. Associated Press.

Kauai

Holy Mackerel, With No Tourists In Sight The Fish Are Returning To Kauai’s North Shore. Local fishermen say the impact of the April storm on tourism has been a boon to the fish population. Civil Beat.

Ishihara opens under new ownership. The common concern among shoppers was the poke, and bento lunches, Tuesday when Ishihara Market reopened under the ownership of the Kalama Beach Corporation. Garden Island.

The median price of a single-family home on Kauai rose 11 percent last month, compared to a year ago, while the median price of a condominium in July jumped by more than 30 percent, according to statistics from Hawaii Information Service on behalf of the Kauai Board of Realtors. Pacific Business News.

Hurricane Hector weakens but remains a threat, congressional candidates promise to oppose single-payer health care despite public positions, Aloha trademark dispute readies for court, lots of candidate info, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hurricane Hector Friday morning, NOAA graphic

Although Hurricane Hector weakened slightly overnight, weather officials still expect the storm to strengthen into a major hurricane this weekend. Star-Advertiser.

Hurricane Hector is weakening as it churns in the Eastern Pacific but it could still become a major storm over the weekend, forecasters say. Hawaii News Now.

Hurricane Hector weakened overnight, but is still forecast to become a major hurricane. Maui Now.

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3 candidates dispute site’s take on their health care opinions. Three Democratic candidates running for the congressional seat being vacated by Congresswoman Colleen Hanabusa indicated to a national health care lobbyist in private meetings and other surveys that they oppose a single-payer health care system, despite campaigning in favor of it. Star-Advertiser.

Health Care Lobbyists Secretly Secure Democrats’ Opposition To ‘Medicare For All’. A lobbyist group approached a raft of candidates for Hawaii’s 1st Congressional District seat — then prepared internal dossiers on their positions. Civil Beat.

Super PAC Spending Revealed. More than 8.5 million dollars has been spent so far in primary election races for the top two state executive offices. Hawaii Public Radio.

Carpenters Union Makes Josh Green A Million-Dollar Candidate For LG. A legislative leader says the union is retaliating against Green’s closest rival, state Sen. Jill Tokuda, for her criticism of the rail project. Civil Beat.

The remains handed over by North Korea last week in 55 boxes are “consistent with being Americans,” based on an initial examination, although none has been positively identified, a U.S. scientist who has seen the remains said Thursday. Associated Press.

The lone Republican candidate who campaigned for the state House seat being vacated by Rep. Andria Tupola is ineligible to run, which could torpedo the party’s effort to retain one of the last five seats it holds in the state Legislature. Star-Advertiser.

U.S. judge dismisses lawsuits against former Hawaii journalist. Malia Zimmerman was accused of making up quotes in a story that ran on Fox News suggesting that Democratic National Committee staffer Seth Rich murdered for leaking political emails. Hawaii News Now.

Several Native Hawaiian advocacy groups announced on Thursday that they are building a legal case against a Chicago eatery that trademarked the words "Aloha Poke." Hawaii News Now.

Aloha Poke Case Raises Issue for All Hawaii Businesses: Protecting Your Brand Name. Hawaii Business magazine.

The world’s largest international maritime exercise concluded Thursday following more than a month of training events conducted in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. Garden Island.

Federal funding to fight infectious diseases in Hawaii. The U.S. Department of Health awarded nearly $2.5 million to Hawaii's infectious disease control program. KHON2.

Hawaii pays the most for electricity by far, according to a report revealing Hawaii's prices are more than twice the national average. But those high prices seem to be pushing residents toward a sustainable future with rooftop solar, or photovoltaic, systems. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

A developer and a road’s owner feud over access to new student housing. A new apartment tower in Moiliili for university students is slated to open Aug. 16 with chic furnishings, a fitness center and a rooftop terrace lounge. Star-Advertiser.

A Tough First Year Comes To An End For This Innovative Oahu Charter School Despite efforts to build a culture of collaboration, Kamalani Academy faced a multitude of challenges with staff turnover and figuring out exactly how the school should be run. Civil Beat.

Brookfield buying developer of Hawaii military housing for $11B. Brookfield Asset Management, which won shareholder approval this week to buy GGP, the owner Hawaii’s Ala Moana Center, for $15 billion, is adding another company with Hawaii ties to its portfolio with an $11 billion deal to acquire Forest City Realty Trust. Pacific Business News.

Honolulu's rail authority received the third train for its 20-mile elevated rail project on Wednesday. Pacific Business News.

Alexander & Baldwin posts lower profit. The owner of Aikahi Park Shopping Center disclosed Thursday that it is preparing plans to renovate and reposition the Kailua retail complex. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii County officials have begun drafting a resolution that would create a redevelopment agency to oversee Puna’s recovery. Tribune-Herald.

Volcano Alternate Routes Planned In Case Highway 11 Fails. The Volcano Village community got a glimpse of their possible future ingress and egress to their Kilauea summit town, during a public meeting Thursday night at the Cooper Center. Big Island Video News.

Road Damage From Earthquakes Is Latest Volcano Peril. Officials worry that future quakes could shut down Highway 11, a vital link between Hilo and a rural district. Associated Press.

Lava a hot topic for Puna council candidates. With two candidates running for each seat, both races will be decided in the Aug. 11 primary. Tribune-Herald.

The University of Hawaii at Hilo was awarded nearly $200,000 by the National Science Foundation to study the wider effects of rapid ohia death on animal communities. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Democratic incumbent Kyle Yamashita and challenger Tiare Lawrence are gearing up for round two of their winner-take-all primary election contest for the Upcountry 12th House seat that was decided by just a few hundred votes two years ago. Maui News.

When South Maui voters head to the primary polls to cast their ballots for the 11th District state House of Representatives, they’ll have three Democratic candidates to choose from. Maui News.

Charges have been dismissed without prejudice against a Haleakala telescope protester, who could be charged again in the case. Maui News.

Kauai

Despite major flooding damage to the North Shore following mid-April’s epic rainfall, visitors continue flocking to Kauai. Garden Island.

Na Pali Coast stamp to be dedicated at Hanalei Post Office.  The U.S. Postal Service will commemorate the issuance of a Forever stamp depicting Kauai's iconic Na Pali coast at a special event at 10:45 a.m. on August 16 at the Hanalei Post Office, located at 5-5226 Kuhio Highway. KHON2.

New poll shows Ige leading governor's race, Green surges ahead for lieutenant governor; Yoshimura named to Senate seat; warden called to court in mistaken release of murder suspect, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

David Ige, Colleen Hanabusa

Civil Beat Poll: Ige Ahead Of Hanabusa In Hawaii Governor’s Race. Gov. David Ige, after trailing Congresswoman Colleen Hanabusa in a May poll, now leads by 9 percent among likely primary voters. Civil Beat.

Caldwell criticizes Hanabusa’s HART role. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell is wading into the Democratic primary for governor by publicly questioning U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa’s role as chairwoman of the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation, saying she failed to control the exploding cost of rail while she led HART. Star-Advertiser.

Civil Beat Poll: Josh Green Is Far Out Front In The LG Race. The Big Island senator garners lots of support from fans of former presidential candidate Bernie Sanders. Civil Beat.

Early walk-in voting started today at sites across the state. Hawaii Public Radio.

Preparations are underway at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam for the Wednesday repatriation to U.S. soil of presumed American remains from the Korean War turned over by North Korea. Star-Advertiser.

The State's August 1 test has been cancelled in observance of the ceremony on that day to repatriate the remains of U.S. Service personnel from North Korea. KHON2.

Teachers Question Modern Hawaiian History Curriculum. Hawaii Public Radio.

Voters could play major role in future of Hawaii's school system. KHON2.

A Chicago-based company that trademarked the name “Aloha Poke” has ignited a social media firestorm and calls for a boycott after sending cease-and-desist letters to local and mainland businesses with similar names. Star-Advertiser.

No aloha? Chicago eatery goes after poke shops for trademark infringement. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

A Surprise Challenge On The North Shore And Other Intriguing Senate Races. Open seats provide opportunities, while a longtime legislator is challenging to get his state Senate post back. Civil Beat.

Gov. David Ige appointed Jon Yoshimura to the seat previously held by former Sen. Will Espero on Monday. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu City Councilwoman Carol Fukunaga is seeking a second term to represent Makiki to Aiea, but first she'll have to defend her seat against three ambitious challengers who say more needs to be done to address issues like homelessness and affordable. Hawaii News Now.

New proposal aims to reverse Oahu's new "bag fee" that charges 15 cents per bag. Though the bag fee has only been in effect since July 1st, Honolulu City Councilman Trevor Ozawa thinks it's time for a change. KHON2.

A $136 million affordable rental housing project is underway in Kapolei after a delay of almost three years. Star-Advertiser.

Construction kicked off Monday on a new, 320-unit affordable housing complex in Kapolei. Hawaii News Now.

Affordable family rental community in east Kapolei breaks ground. KHON2.

More than a year after the city conducted a homeless sweep along the Moanalua Stream, many of them have returned — much to residents' dismay. Hawaii News Now.

Photographer challenges Hawaii Taser ban on 2nd Amendment grounds. Hawaii News Now.

After its first year of operation, Honolulu’s Biki bikeshare program exceeded its ridership goals and is hoping to expand into Iwililei, the University of Hawaii at Manoa and as far east as Kapiolani Community College by the end of the year. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

The state House District 1 Democratic primary race pits a 10-year legislator against a community activist who’s running for office for the first time. Tribune-Herald.

A 3rd Circuit Court judge has ordered the Hawaii Community Correctional Center warden to court to explain how a pre-trial murder suspect was erroneously released last week. West Hawaii Today.

Ongoing Kilauea eruption shatters previous record for longest in lower east rift zone. Hawaii News Now.

Businesses unite to try to attract visitors in the midst of Kilauea disruption. Experience Volcano Hawaii, an organization intended to boost tourism to Volcano, launched Monday during a small event at local art gallery, cafe and cottage Volcano Garden Arts. Tribune-Herald.

Lava-related brush fire claims four homes. Four houses were destroyed Saturday by a brush fire along Kilauea volcano’s lower East Rift Zone. Tribune-Herald.

'There really is a Pele': Big Island eruptions spur cultural revival. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii County on Friday awarded a bid for the Lono Kona sewer project to Honolulu-based contractor Nan Inc., which is now tasked with transitioning the neighborhood known locally as “Hamburger Hill” away from large-capacity cesspools. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Construction begins on a new high school in Kihei. KITV.

Maui County hotel numbers top most state categories for 2018’s first half. Occupancies lag, but room revenues increase in half-year. Maui News.

Ranch planting koa trees to ‘shade out’ invasive gorse. Its other secret weapon — a herd of hungry cattle — can eat the thorny shrub only when it’s young. Maui News.

A Maui ranch has planted thousands of acacia koa trees to help stave off the spread of an invasive plant species. Associated Press.

Kauai

The Kauai Chamber of Commerce will be presenting the Governor’s Forum at the Aqua Kauai Beach Resort near Hanamaulu from 6 to 7:30 p.m. to night to allow voters an opportunity to get to know the candidates better before casting their votes. Garden Island.

The Hanalei post office reopened its doors following repairs to damage caused by flooding from the record-breaking rainfall in April. Garden Island.

Uncertainty surrounded the future of the St. Regis Princeville Resort after weekend media reports said it had been purchased by a Miami-based hotel investment company, but the company denied on Monday that it had done so. Garden Island.