State preps for Saturday primary, judge dismisses lawsuit against OHA trustees, Institute of Pacific Islands Forestry on federal closure list, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

What to expect in Hawaii’s state primary. An ongoing corruption scandal involving Hawaii’s lieutenant governor looms over Saturday’s state primary as nine candidates jockey to replace her. Meanwhile, a longtime Democratic congressman who bucked his party and supported one of President Donald Trump’s top legislative priorities faces a tough primary challenge. An ongoing corruption scandal involving Hawaii’s lieutenant governor looms over Saturday’s state primary as nine candidates jockey to replace her. Meanwhile, a longtime Democratic congressman who bucked his party and supported one of President Donald Trump’s top legislative priorities faces a tough primary challenge.  Associated Press.

Departures at the state Legislature open the door for new Hawaiʻi lawmakers. Recent departures at the state Legislature will lead to new lawmakers this year. Most of the candidates running for open seats this year are political newcomers.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Judge Dismisses Retaliation Lawsuit Against OHA Trustees. Stacy Ferreira, the deposed CEO, filed a lawsuit against the agency, its nine trustees and interim CEO Summer Sylva in November, accusing them — and in particular, Chair Kai Kahele — of retaliating against her and violating the state’s open meetings law.  Circuit Court Judge Steven Nichols determined Thursday that the case will proceed, but only against OHA. Civil Beat.

Hawaiʻi's Safe Routes To School program attracts questions. A Hawaiʻi law passed last year mandated that each vehicle registration would add a $5 fee to fund the program. The Safe Routes to Schools Advisory Committee, under the state’s Department of Transportation, manages those funds and gives portions to each county. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Mayor Blangiardi defers to courts in Waters’ election dispute. Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s administration is deferring to the courts in the ongoing legal dispute that removed City Council Chair Tommy Waters from Saturday’s East Honolulu District 4 primary election. The Blangiardi administration declined to comment on how the city Department of the Corporation Counsel or the Office of the City Clerk handled Waters’ eligibility issue and the election process overall in District 4. Star-Advertiser.

Incumbent Fevella faces 2 ex-lawmakers in the GOP primary for state Senate. The race between Rida Cabanilla-Arakawa, Kurt Fevella and Bob McDermott is one of the more unusual contests in Saturday’s primary election. Hawaii Public Radio.

State regulators question need for more firm power on Oʻahu's grid. The Public Utilities Commission has denied Hawaiian Electric’s request to seek competitive bids for 500 MW of fuel-flexible power on Oʻahu. The commission said the utility must first demonstrate that such generation would benefit Oʻahu ratepayers. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu home sales, prices posted double-digit gains in July.  The report by the Honolulu Board of Realtors said sales of previously owned single-family homes jumped 20.5% to 300 last month from 249 a year earlier, while the median sale price rose 13.9% to $1,224,500 from $1,075,000. July’s median price followed a record set in June at $1,242,500. Star-Advertiser.

Schofield Barracks welcomes new ‘Tropic Lightning’ leader. Maj. Gen. Jay Bartholomees relinquished command of “America’s Pacific Division” to Maj. Gen. Jeff VanAntwerp, who takes command after a year leading Special Operations Command Pacific at Camp Smith. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Institute of Pacific Islands Forestry in Hilo among proposed closures of forest research facilities nationwide. Operating since 1956, the institute meets the diverse information needs of natural resource managers across the Pacific, according to the facility’s website. Big Island Now.

Hawai‘i County Fire Commission postpones chief interviews to September. The postponement was to allow Hawai‘i County's Department of Resources enough time to notify the finalists of the next steps in the hiring process. Big Island Now.

Kilauea Volcano Update – New Crack Opens, Large Flames Seen. A new crack has opened upslope of the south vent, and has been producing intermittent large flames. Big Island Video News.

County hosts free Household Hazardous Waste events. Hawaii County will be holding free Household Hazardous Waste collection events between 7:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. On Saturday, Aug. 8 at the Afook-Chinen Civic Auditorium parking lot in Hilo and Saturday, Aug. 15, at the West Hawaii Civic Center parking lot in Kailua-Kona. Tribune-Herald.

Southwest Airlines kicks off new nonstop flight between Hilo and the ‘Ninth Island. The inaugural flight of Southwest Airline’s new direct route between Las Vegas and Hilo touched down Thursday at the Hilo International Airport. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now.

Maui

Maui Candidates Are Benefiting Big From PACs. About half of the money spent by political action committees on neighbor island races went to Maui, where the future of short-term vacation rentals has dominated the political landscape. Civil Beat.

Court orders Maui Planning Commission to revisit Honua‘ula project. The Hawaii Intermediate Court of Appeals ruled Thursday that the Maui Planning Commission must reconsider whether major changes to the Honua'ula development formerly known as Wailea 670 require a supplemental environmental impact statement. Maui News.

MPD commander allegedly protected drug dealers, cockfighters for cash. Michael Vaituulala, 53, a lieutenant with nearly 18 years with MPD, is facing 20 years in federal prison after he allegedly took cash from criminals since 2019 to protect illegal firework sales, cocaine and methamphetamine marketing and cockfighting. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2. KITV4.

One ‘Ohana Fund reaches $175M in offers. The compensation program to families of those who died and people who suffered serious physical injuries in the Aug. 8, 2023, Maui wildfires has made offers on 162 eligible claims as of Aug. 4, including 102 death claims and 60 serious physical injury claims. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now.

Maui Wildfires 3 Years Later: The Recovery In Photos. Residential building has picked up the pace but the commercial district still struggles. Civil Beat.

Kauai

26 people running for Kauaʻi County Council in Aug. 8 primary. Who are they? The top 14 vote-getters in the Saturday primary advance to the general election on Nov. 3. Kauai Now.

Celebrating the Charity Walk. Between the puffs of dust and cars picking their way through the construction of the Poipu Road Safety and Mobility Project outside Keoki’s Paradise on Thursday, the Hawaii Lodging and Tourism Association, Kauai Chapter, shared more than $674,000 with representatives of 55 Kauai nonprofits. Garden Island.

Tourism officials seek strategies to attract Japanese market, Honolulu mayor threatens budget veto, state Supreme Court to hear sobriety test refusal case, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

New strategies to attract Japanese visitors to Hawaiʻi . Japanese tourism to Hawaiʻi remains at less than half the level it was before the COVID pandemic. Now tourism officials and industry leaders are shifting their strategy to attract this once high-spending market. Hawaii Public Radio.

Will Doctors Trade 5 Years In Rural Hawaiʻi For Free Med School? Ambitious financial aid program aims to reduce the doctor shortage in remote and underserved parts of the state. Attending medical school will be free starting in September for awardees of the Hawaiʻi Outreach for Medical Education in Rural Under-resourced Neighborhoods (HOME RUN) workforce pipeline program.  Civil Beat.

Hawaiʻi Is The Only State Not Tracking Abuse In Childcare. The state blames a bureaucratic hurdle for its failure to follow a federal law requiring it to report abuse and serious injuries in childcare settings. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Supreme Court to hear case on using sobriety test refusals as evidence. Hawaii’s Supreme Court will hear arguments Thursday on whether drivers who refuse voluntary roadside sobriety tests can have that refusal used as evidence of guilt. Hawaii News Now.

U.S., Chinese military officials meet in Hawaii. U.S. and Chinese military officials recently met in Hawaii to discuss tensions at sea as both sides refine their respective strategies in the Western Pacific and the Trump administration seeks to ease tensions. Star-Advertiser.

University of Hawaii cries foul over demise of student-athlete pay legislation. University of Hawaii administrators and state lawmakers sometimes don’t see eye to eye on funding |issues, but an argument has erupted over expressions of widely divergent views on one bill about UH finances that failed last month. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu mayor threatens budget veto over cut to economic revitalization office. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi is threatening to veto the city’s $5 billion budget over a $1.4 million cut to the Office of Economic Revitalization. Hawaii News Now.

Keiki homelessness rising on Oahu. According to the latest Point-in-Time Count snapshot of those experiencing homelessness, the number of children and families increased by almost 20% from two years ago and by more than 40% since 2022. KITV4.

Man pleads guilty for illegally shipping assault rifle parts from Hawaii to Japan. Shoto Yamamoto admitted that he exported or tried to export more than 900 firearms components and accessories, including AR-15 lower receiver parts kits, upper receivers, magazines, and similar components, each of which required a license to export that he didn’t have. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu police look for mob that attacked lifeguard, 15-year-old  on Oahu’s North Shore. Kekoa Tamale, a 23-year-old lifeguard, said he was trying to save his 15-year-old family friend from about a dozen people who were attacking him Saturday night. Instead of intervening, Tamale said other bystanders recorded the beating on their phones. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.  KITV4.

Why are waits so long for Oahu driver licensing appointments?  Oahu residents wait longer for appointments at drivers licensing centers. The city has seen a huge increase in renewals so far in 2026, and it is expected to only get busier. KITV4.

Hawaii Island

It Takes A Village To Help Big Island Residents Drive Less. If Hawaiʻi County’s general plan finally passes this week it could set in motion an effort to improve public transit, make urban areas denser, and add paths for pedestrians and bicycles. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s Kilauea sets record for lava fountaining episodes in any 1 eruption for the volcano. The on-and-off eruption of Hawaii’s Kilauea volcano broke a record Monday with the number of periods it has produced fountains of lava since it began erupting in December 2024, the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory said. Associated Press.

Brown Water Advisory Issued for Hilo Bay, Hāmākua Coast. The Hawaiʻi Department of Health’s Clean Water Branch said is telling beach users to stay out of waters “that appear brown or murky, especially following storms or heavy rain, even if a Brown Water Advisory has not been issued in the area.” Big Island Video News.

Fight against Rapid Ohia Death advances. While it has also been detected in different forms on other islands, it is most prevalent on the Big Island where it is estimated to have killed over 1 million ohia trees and counting. Tribune-Herald.

Mental exam ordered for triple homicide suspect. Hilo District Judge Jeffrey Hawk on Monday ordered that Jacob “Jake” Daniel Baker be examined by three mental-health professionals to determine his fitness to stand trial as well as penal responsibility — his state of mind at the time of the alleged offenses and whether he could discern the wrongfulness and illegality of his alleged actions. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2. 

Maui

County seeks public input on proposed disaster recovery plan amendment. Maui County is accepting public comments through July 1 on proposed changes to its Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery Action Plan related to the Strategic Voluntary Mitigation Buyout Program. Maui News.

Residents encouraged to attend County’s Lahaina Community Meeting, June 3. In order to provide residents with more individual assistance, representatives from several departments and agencies will be available to offer support at resource tables following a question-and-answer session to close the meeting. Maui Now.

Repairs underway of massive Maui sinkhole after March storms. County officials said record-breaking rainfall from the first Kona low caused damage to multiple underground infrastructure systems and undermining beneath the roadway. Work is not expected to be completed until the fall, officials said. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Department of Health to survey Kaua‘i residents on their household emergency preparedness. The Hawaiʻi Department of Health Kauaʻi District Health Office will conduct a Community Assessment for Public Health Emergency Response, also known as the CASPER survey, in June to assess the emergency preparedness of Kauaʻi households. Kauai Now.

Michaela Widener joins the mayoral race. Michaela Widener of Koloa joined the Kauai mayoral race on May 28.Widener is a single mother of two indigenous Hawaiian children, who works at the Beach House restaurant in Poipu. Garden Island.

Ariyoshi dies at 100, PGA cuts Hawaii events, Big Island Forest Service facilities targeted for closure, auditor warns of problems with $40M homeless program, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

George Ariyoshi, Hawaii's third governor and nation’s first governor of Asian American descent, dies at age 100.  Hawaii’s longest-­serving governor and the first Asian American to serve as governor of any U.S. state, George Ariyoshi, died Sunday night at the age of 100, leaving a “quiet and effective” legacy grounded in shaping the state’s future. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Associated Press. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.  KITV4. 

Legislation to curb corporate influence in elections awaits final negotiation by lawmakers. The state Legislature is looking at a new, untested legal approach to curb corporate money in elections. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaiʻi Transportation Officials Want A New Military Partnership. A bill being considered by the Legislature would allow the state DOT to act as a military contractor to expedite federal projects for improvements to airports and roads. Civil Beat.

Hawaiʻi gambling regulations would likely be complex to accommodate the evolving industry. That was advocates' message to state lawmakers looking at how it could impact Hawaiʻi, one of two states that outlaw all forms of gambling. Hawaii Public Radio.

PGA Tour cuts Hawaii events in 2027, dealing a $150M blow to state. The PGA Tour confirmed on Monday that its two Hawaii golf tournaments — the Sony Open in Hawaii and The Sentry at Kapalua — will not be included in the 2027 tour schedule, representing a more than $150 million annual loss in visitor industry revenue for the islands. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now.  Hawaii News Now.  KHON2. KITV4. 

Auditor Issues Urgent Warning About Key Hawaiʻi Homeless Program.  In a letter addressed to legislators and the state’s human services director Monday, Auditor Les Kondo explained why he was raising early alarm bells about the kauhale initiative and payments to HomeAid Hawai‘i that have cost taxpayers nearly $40 million so far, some of which he said was spent with little public oversight and weak internal controls. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Lambert must return to HPD to protect pension benefits. Mike Lambert, 46, is one of the 41 applicants to serve as Honolulu’s 13th police chief. If he is not picked to lead HPD, he also applied to continue his law enforcement career where it began, as a HPD patrol officer. Star-Advertiser.

'Get rid of the dam': Residents, farmers have conflicting feelings about Wahiawā dam. As the state moves closer to acquiring the aging more than 120-year-old earthen dam, there are conflicting feelings from longtime North residents and farmers. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kaimuki’s iconic Queen Theater, now in disrepair, prepped for sale. The Queen Theater, a once-beloved 1930s-era landmark in the heart of Kaimuki that fell into dec­ades of disrepair, is being readied for sale, city leaders say. Star-Advertiser.

Cleanup underway of floating homeless encampments. Heavy machinery continued Monday to tear out thick and overgrown mangroves along Keehi Stream in Kalihi that had camouflaged 25 or so floating and land-based homeless structures that have occupied the waters from Keehi Stream to Keehi Lagoon for years. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Cyclists Lament Safety Barriers, Green Paint In Bike Lanes. New asphalt along South King Street meant bike path safety features had to be removed temporarily. They are taking too long to be replaced, cyclists say. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

ʻŌhiʻa Trees, Invasive Species: Years Of Research Could Be Lost. The Hilo-based Institute of Pacific Islands Forestry headquarters and a biocontrol lab in Volcano are among at least 57 Forest Service facilities targeted for closure across the country in an agency restructuring plan rolled out by the Trump administration late last month. Civil Beat.

2,000 acres in Kapoho being considered for preservation. A Hawaii County Council committee today will consider a resolution calling for the purchase of nearly 2,000 acres of rugged coastal land in Kapoho using public land preservation funds. Tribune-Herald.

Former Kamehameha Schools employee indicted for internal theft. Zachary Heltz, a 32-year-old Big Island man, has been indicted for allegedly stealing hundreds of thousands of dollars from Kamehameha Schools Hawaii. Tribune-Herald.

Kīlauea Volcano Alert Level Raised As Lava Activity Begins. Low-level lava activity began at the summit of Kīlauea overnight, prompting a change in the Alert Level for the Hawaiʻi Island volcano. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.  Hawaii News Now.

Work to replace lava tube bridge begins Thursday. Work to replace the deteriorating bridge into Nahuku lava tube in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park will start Thursday. Tribune-Herald.

Maui 

MEMA, other agencies to participate in April 23 training in Kahului.  A multiagency, full-scale training exercise will be held Thursday, April 23, 2026, from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Kahului, according to Maui Emergency Management Agency. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kaua‘i Fire is seeking public input on how to improve. The Kaua‘i Fire Department is looking for public input to see how they can improve their emergency response and overall community safety. Kauai Now.

Income tax relief promise erodes in partisan squabble, war uncertainty freezes state economic forecast, officials urge residents to take storm seriously, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaiʻi Income Tax Cuts: Lawmakers Chip Away At Promised Savings. Republicans at the State Capitol pounced on Democrats’ plans to defer a huge income tax cut that was promised to state residents in 2024, using prolonged floor debate Tuesday to scold the Democrats for reneging on the original tax cut. The ruling Democrats shrugged off that criticism and easily mustered the votes they needed to win preliminary approval Tuesday in both the House and Senate for two bills that would water down the original tax-cutting plan. Civil Beat.

Iran war uncertainty freezes Hawaii general fund forecast. Uncertainty over the war in Iran has dashed what could have been a more positive revenue forecast for the state’s general fund next fiscal year. The Hawaii Council on Revenues voted unanimously Tuesday to stick with a 2.0% growth rate for the fiscal year beginning July 1, representing no change from its last two forecasts, made in January and September. Star-Advertiser.

Will Hawaiʻi Take This Native Hawaiian Advisory Group Seriously? The Aha Moku Advisory Committee weighs in on issues from fishing to military leases, but many think it’s not as effective as it could be. Civil Beat.

Fragrant flower lei, synonymous with Hawaii, face competition from cheaper imports. Some Hawaii lawmakers think the state should be doing more to help the producers of lei made with locally grown, fragrant flowers. Associated Press.

Oahu

Officials urge residents to take storm seriously. The storm system hitting Hawaii this week could bring up to 30 inches of rain to parts of Oahu through the weekend, and city officials have one key message for residents: stay home. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Honolulu officials brainstorm changing tax structure to boost revenue. With a relatively conservative budget in the works for the upcoming fiscal year, the Honolulu City Council and administration officials are brainstorming possible sources of revenue for Oʻahu. Hawaii Public Radio.

HPD seeks $400M budget for vacancies, vehicles and other needs. The Honolulu Police Department is proposing a nearly $400 million operating budget to fight crime while it tries to fill over 400 sworn-officer vacancies.  Star-Advertiser.

A&B shareholders approve $2.3B takeover of ’Big Five’ company. Alexander &Baldwin Inc., the last publicly traded survivor of Hawaii’s historic “Big Five,” is poised to end more than a century of public ownership after shareholders overwhelmingly approved a $2.3 billion buyout — the largest commercial real estate portfolio sale in state history. Star-Advertiser.

'Responsibility is everything': Women incarcerated on Oʻahu care for kittens. The “Transforming Animal and Incarcerated Individuals’ Lives” program, or TAIIL, is a collaboration between the Hawaiian Humane Society and the state Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

Kona low expected to hit Big Island Thursday or Friday; flash flood watch posted. The forecast calls for wind gusts in Kona as high as 44 mph on Friday night and 47 mph on Saturday. Hilo gusts are forecast to be as high as 32 mph on Friday night and 28 mph on Saturday. Tribune-Herald.

Kilauea latest eruption ends; Hawaiian Air cancels Hilo flights. Episode 43 of lava fountaining at the summit of Kilauea abruptly ended about 6:30 p.m., as Hawaiian Airlines announced  it had canceled five round-trip flights between Honolulu and Hilo, and diverted two flights to Kona due to volcanic ash from the ongoing eruption. Star-Advertiser. Associated Press. Big Island Video News. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense, partners to open tephra information center in Volcano. Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense and partners The Red Cross and Community Response Team will be available beginning today (March 11) in Volcano to provide residents with information about tephra cleanup following Episode 43 of the ongoing episodic summit eruption of Kīlauea volcano. Big Island Now.

Coconut Island Bridge: Permanent Fix Will Take 3 Years, Cost $20 Million. A $2 million temporary replacement for Big Island’s Mokuola bridge is expected to be completed in the next two years. Civil Beat.

Maui

Mayor Bissen signs emergency proclamation ahead of kona storm. Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen signed an emergency proclamation Tuesday as Maui County continued preparations for a powerful kona storm that is expected to bring heavy rain, flooding and strong winds to the Hawaiian Islands this week. Maui News. Maui Now. 

Severe weather forecast prompts closure of all camping areas on Maui, Molokaʻi and Oʻahu. On Maui, this includes: Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area and Waiʻānapanapa State Park. On Molokaʻi, this includes Pālāʻau State Park overlooking Kalaupapa peninsula. Maui Now.

'People want hope that things are moving': Maui County mayor talks housing, water. HPR spoke with Mayor Richard Bissen about his 2026 State of the County address.In the speech, Bissen spoke of affordable housing and a historic water deal: Talks have been underway to bring more of Maui’s water resources under public control. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai

Flood advisory canceled for Kaua‘i as heavy rainfall diminishes. National Weather Service forecasters in Honolulu report radar shows that heavy rain over the island has diminished and flooding is no longer expected to pose a threat. Kauai Now.

Kauaʻi Coffee Co. delays layoffs while land lease negotiations continue. At Kauaʻi Coffee Co., 136 people will keep their jobs for now as potential layoffs have been delayed for a month while lease negotiations continue to drag on between land owner Brue Baukol Capital Partners and Massimo Zanetti Beverage USA, which owns the local business. Kauai Now.

Bill seeks cellphone ban at schools, Kaiser Permanente strike begins today, Schofield soldiers doubling up in barracks as US military beefs up Hawaii presence, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Teachers, parents divided over proposed school cellphone ban. Cellphones and all other telecommunication devices would be banned in Hawaii’s public schools under a House bill that attempts to resolve a divisive issue, even among Hawaii’s public school teachers. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiʻi Lawmakers Are Full Of Ideas For Improving Schools. Few Will Pass. Lawmakers are prioritizing free meals for students and stronger protections for school employees this session, but less than 10% of education bills become law each year. Civil Beat.

Math at the center of Hawaii’s education priorities as leaders look ahead. Math readiness has emerged as a defining education issue for Hawaii as lawmakers and school leaders prepare for the 2026 legislative cycle, framing numeracy not only as an academic concern but as a foundation for workforce readiness, economic mobility and long-term student success. Star-Advertiser.

Japanese American soldiers once branded ‘enemy aliens’ to be promoted posthumously. Seven Japanese American soldiers will be promoted to officer ranks in a solemn ceremony Monday, eight decades after they died fighting for the U.S. during World War II despite having been branded “enemy aliens.”  The seven were students at the University of Hawaii and cadets in the Reserve Officer Training Corps, on track to become Army officers, when Japan bombed Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941.  Associated Press.

Kaiser strike set to begin despite union offer to resume bargaining. Hundreds of Kaiser Permanente Hawaii employees are set to walk off the job on Monday at 7 a.m. Approximately 240 pharmacists, rehabilitation therapists and certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) in Hawaii will be joining thousands of others in California from the United Nurses Association of California and the Union of Health Care Professionals. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

'We have to push back,' ACLU president on mission to uphold civil liberties. Deborah Archer has been the president of the national ACLU since 2021. She spoke with HPR about how the ACLU has changed during the second Trump administration. Hawaii Public Radio. 

Hawaiian Kingdom enters lawsuit against Kamehameha Schools. The Council of Regency, as interim government of the Hawaiian Kingdom, on Jan. 21 filed a motion to intervene with an accompanying motion to dismiss in the Students for Fair Admissions vs. Kamehameha Schools lawsuit filed in U.S. District Court. Big Island Now.

Oahu

Schofield soldiers forced to ‘double up’ in barracks with more troops coming. Some soldiers on Oahu are being told they might be living “doubled up” in their barracks rooms for at least 15 months or longer as the U.S. Army increases the number of troops in Hawaii under a major force restructuring. The Army has been putting increased emphasis on Hawaii as a hub for Pacific training and operations amid tensions with China. Star-Advertiser.

City seeks new headquarters for Ocean Safety Department.  HOSD’s plans include a proposed land swap arrangement involving the Kapiolani Park Trust to temporarily accommodate mobile trailers near its existing headquarters in the Waikiki area. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Fireworks Citations Offer Glimpse Into Use Of New Laws. Fireworks citations and fines were up on Oʻahu, but the jury is still out on how effective aerial drones will be. Civil Beat.

Hawaii slows speed camera expansion after warning period. The state Department of Transportation is declaring its recently activated automated speed limit enforcement program in urban Honolulu a success, but expansion is going to be slower and smaller than previously planned. Star-Advertiser.

Strike at Kaiser Moanalua set to begin today. No resolution is yet in sight over a new contract between Kaiser and the United Nurses Associations of California/Union of Health Care Professionals, which represents 31,000 registered nurses, pharmacists and others, including about 250 in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

For those who depend on coconuts, few options exist to fight invasive beetles. The invasive coconut rhinoceros beetle, or CRB for short, has killed thousands of coconut trees on Oahu since its arrival in 2013. Around 1-1/2 years ago, it first appeared in Kahana Valley. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Update On Ashfall, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park After Episode 41. The ongoing eruption at the summit of Kīlauea volcano is once again paused, following the high lava fountaining of episode 41 that covered the surrounding area in tephra and dispersed fine ash as far as Hilo.  Big Island Video News. Big Island Now. Hawaii News Now. 

New artificial intelligence degree debuts later this year at University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo. The College of Business and Economics is launching a new artificial intelligence concentration in the bachelor of business administration program beginning in the 2026 fall semester. It will formally interface with the university’s data science program. Big Island Now.

Police investigating Thursday afternoon affray in Hilo. At 3:17 p.m., police responded to a report of a disturbance involving an estimated 30 to 40 teenagers at Mohouli Park. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Mayor Bissen to make annual appearance with Hawai‘i mayors before state lawmakers. Mayor Richard Bissen will join the state’s other three mayors in making presentations Monday afternoon before members of the Senate Ways and Means and House Finance committees at the State Capitol. Maui Now.

Federal Housing Programs For Maui Fire Survivors Extended Until 2027. Federal officials approved the state’s request to extend for a year the program that hundreds of Maui wildfire survivors still rely on for temporary housing and financial assistance, Gov. Josh Green announced on Friday afternoon. Civil Beat. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kaiser Permanente releases Maui pharmacy closure details ahead of Monday strike. Kaiser Permanente Hawaiʻi announced operational plans Saturday for Maui County ahead of an open-ended strike by unionized health care workers scheduled to begin Monday. Maui Now.

50 Years On Kahoʻolawe: Inside The Journey To Rescue Hawaiʻi’s Target Island. The goal isn’t just to heal the environment, activists say. It’s to forge an island where Hawaiians can reclaim their culture. Civil Beat.

Kauai

Tsunamis, Floods And Not Enough Space: Kauaʻi Is Moving To Replace Its Jail. With an upcoming highway-widening project expected to encroach on a third of the Wailua facility’s property, the state is finally moving forward with plans to construct a new rehabilitation-focused KCCC on empty agricultural land in Hanamā‘ulu.  Civil Beat.

Updated leadership in Hawaiʻi House of Representatives named for 2026 state legislative session. Members of the Kaua‘i House delegation will be taking leadership roles on the House floor and in committees, including House Speaker Nadine Nakamura (Hā‘ena, Wainiha, Hanalei, Princeville, Kīlauea, Anahola, Keālia, Kapa‘a, portion of Wailua, Kawaihau) and Majority Floor Leader Dee Morikawa (Ni‘ihau, portion of ‘Ōma‘o, Kōloa, Po‘ipū, Lāwa‘i, Kalāheo, Ele‘ele, Hanapēpē, Kaawanui Village, Pākalā Village, Waimea, Kekaha). Kauai Now.

Traffic deaths hit 18-year high, armed police to be installed at 3 Oahu high schools, Kilauea volcano puts on 10-hour show, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaiʻi Road Deaths Hit 18-Year Peak Last Year. Most Other States Dropped. Hawaiʻi was one of just six U.S. states where the rate of road deaths in 2025 rose compared to 2024. Civil Beat.

Hawaiʻi Lawmakers Threaten To Withdraw Funding For Invasive Species. Senators are troubled by what they see as slow progress from the Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity, which is struggling to find staff to keep invasive species at bay. Civil Beat.

How Hawaiʻi might spend funds from new climate tax on hotel stays. What's the most effective way to spend that money? That’s a question that faced the state’s Green Fee Advisory Council — a 10-member group making recommendations on where and how to spend this revenue. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaiʻi AG asks for $1M litigation budget to prepare for federal actions. The state attorney general’s office is asking for $1 million to support its litigation budget — largely to prepare for increased federal legal actions. So far, the Hawaiʻi attorney general has been a party to 39 lawsuits — three of which the office took a lead on. Hawaii Public Radio.

ACLU announces campaign for immigration justice ahead of Hawai‘i legislative session. The American Civil Liberties Union in Hawai‘i announced its 2026 legislative priorities, which include criminal legal system reforms, increased protection for Hawai‘i’s immigrant communities, and stronger efforts to defend gender equity and LGBTQ+ rights. Big Island Now. KHON2. 

State senators say they didn’t take $35,000 in a paper bag. Senate President Ronald D. Kouchi said he has asked all members of his chamber if they are, or know who is, the unnamed legislator mentioned in an ongoing public corruption investigation who accepted $35,000 in a paper bag, and all Senate Democrats have answered no. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. 

Attorney Daisy Hartsfield to fill Waipahu House seat. Hartsfield — a graduate of Waipahu High School and the William S. Richardson School of Law at the University of Hawaii at Manoa — has served more than 20 years in public service, working as a: Child Protective Services investigator, juvenile probation officer, drug court supervisor, special assistant to the Director of Human Services, administrator of the Department of Human Services’ Social Services Division, deputy public defender, deputy attorney general and deputy prosecuting attorney. Star-Advertiser.

Online ag declaration forms yield higher completion rates. Lawmakers want more. The implementation of online agricultural declaration forms for passengers flying to Hawaiʻi, compared to the previous paper-only system, has led to an increase in compliance, but state lawmakers say more needs to be done. Hawaii Public Radio.

U.S. and Pacific allies tout ties at defense conference. Military leaders, diplomats, arms manufacturers and investors are gathering in Waikiki this week to talk about tensions in the Pacific and send a signal that alliances in the region still matter. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Armed officers to provide security at 3 Oahu schools. Honolulu police and the Hawaii Department of Education are rolling out a new pilot program to boost safety at select Oahu campuses. Dedicated school resource officers will be assigned to three high schools: Waianae, Kapolei and Kaimuki high schools. KHON2.

Council member proposes task force to explore landfill-free future on Oahu. Council member Andria Tupola filed Monday Resolution 26-7, proposing a task force that would review Oahu’s long-term solid waste management strategy, and assess alternative waste reduction, recycling, diversion, and conversion strategies. Hawaii News Now.

City reschedules Waimanalo Gulch landfill public hearing. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s plan to expand the city’s Waimanalo Gulch Sanitary Landfill in Kapolei and extend its useful life following stalled attempts to find a suitable location for a new dump will also involve community comment, city officials say. Star-Advertiser.

Waialua residents challenge Kaukonahua Ranch agribusiness at DPP hearing. Dozens of North Shore residents traveled from Waialua to downtown Honolulu on Monday to testify at a Department of Planning and Permitting hearing over a controversial agribusiness project proposed for Kaukonahua Ranch, also known as Kam ananui Agribusiness — a project critics say is being improperly classified as “minor” despite what they describe as large-scale tourism impacts on agricultural land on Mount Kaala. Star-Advertiser. KITV4.  KHON2. 

Hawaii Island

Lava fountaining draws visitors from across the globe. Episode 40 of the ongoing summit eruption began at about 8:22 a.m. Monday, with lava fountains erupting from vents on the floor of Halemaumau crater, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. All eruptive activity remained confined within the crater and inside Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. The eruption ended abruptly at 6:04 p.m. after nearly 10 hours of continuous lava fountaining. Star-Advertiser. Associated Press. Big Island Video News.  Big Island Now. 

A Third Of Hawai’i Could Get Criminal Records Cleared. Few Do. The Attorney General’s Office just expunged the records of more than 1,300 Big Island residents through a pilot program. Some policymakers want to see the work expand. Civil Beat.

Hawaiʻi Island program hopes to bridge generations through food. The Food Basket on Hawaiʻi Island is launching its 10-week “Food is Medicine” initiative. Kūpuna from the Keaʻau Community Center will take weekly cooking classes with recipes chosen by Keaʻau High School agriculture students.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Much of E. Hawaii had less than 50% of average rainfall in 2025. According to the National Weather Service, seven gauges in the Hamakua and Hilo districts recorded their driest calendar years on record — most notably the Hilo International Airport, which had its driest year since 1949 with 58.95 inches, or 49% of its yearly average of 120.39. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui Planning Commission to review Hoʻonani Village, housing and parking bills. The Maui Planning Commission is scheduled today to review land use bills regarding the proposed Hoʻonani Village project near Kahului Airport, as well as legislation regarding accessory dwelling units, agricultural retail structures and electric vehicle charging stations. Maui Now.

FEMA housing assistance for Maui wildfire survivors extended 18 days while yearlong extension under review. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has extended its temporary housing and financial assistance to Maui wildfire survivors to Feb. 28, which is 18 more days than the previous deadline. Maui Now.

Man killed in officer-involved shooting identified by loved one. A man killed in an officer-involved shooting on Maui last week has been identified as Kristopher Austin, 40. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Nominees announced for Kaua‘i Circuit Court judge. Five individuals are being considered to fill the judge vacancy for the 5th Circuit Court on Kaua‘i, following the retirement of Judge Kathleen N.A. Watanabe in August 2025. The nominees are Stephanie R.S. Char, Craig A. De Costa, Simeona L.L.A. Mariano, Michael D. Scarbo and Kimberly A. Torigoe Metcalfe. Kauai Now.

Delinquent state taxpayers owe millions, Kamehameha Schools to go tuition-free, Kilauea marks anniversary with new eruptive episode, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Who Are Hawaiʻi’s Biggest Tax Delinquents? Search Here. A government database tracks who owes what in state taxes. Spoiler alert: Some owe millions. The list includes state legislators, government contractors, businesses and individuals. Civil Beat.

Domestic Abuse Allegations Prompt Democrats To Scuttle Legislative Nominee. The party has pulled back its nomination of Inam Rahman of Waipahu as one of three choices to fill a legislative vacancy. Civil Beat.

Gov. Green announces appointments to boards and commissions. Gov. Josh Green on Tuesday announced several appointments and reappointments to state boards and commissions, bringing experience in water resource management, ethics, agriculture and community development to state service. Maui Now.

Kamehameha Schools will no longer require tuition for preschool through Grade 12. Starting with the 2026-27 school year, Kamehameha preschools and K–12 campuses will no longer require tuition. The announcement was made in a message from the Board of Trustees and CEO of Kamehameha Schools. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. 

Volunteers Oversee Hawaiʻi Charter Schools. The State Has Little Say Over Them. Volunteer boards oversee the academics and finances of Hawaiʻi charter schools. But the state has limited influence over who serves on those boards or how they hold schools accountable.  Civil Beat.

Baby boomers struggle with housing, food and health risks. Today’s Hawaii boomers — the youngest is 61 and the oldest 79 — primarily rely on fixed incomes such as Social Security. Star-Advertiser.

WWII Navy veteran Ira ‘Ike’ Schab, one of last remaining Pearl Harbor survivors, dies at 105. World War II Navy veteran Ira “Ike” Schab, one of the dwindling number of survivors of the 1941 Japanese bombing of Pearl Harbor, has died. He was 105.  With his passing, there remain only about a dozen survivors of the surprise attack, which killed just over 2,400 troops and propelled the United States into the war.  Associated Press.

Proposed state budget reckons with lost federal funding. Gov. Josh Green's budget proposal for the upcoming fiscal year that begins on July 1, 2026, focuses on investments in healthcare and social services. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

HART board revises closed-door meeting policy.  One member of the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation’s board of directors has for years been disallowed from attending the rail agency’s most confidential, closed-door meetings. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

High Lava Fountains Mark Kīlauea Eruption Anniversary. Episode 39 fountaining began at about 8:10 pm HST on Tuesday evening, the anniversary of the current year-long summit eruption. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.  Hawaii News Now.  KHON2. 

South Kohala communities urged to reduce water use after months of dry conditions. According to Hawai‘i County’s Department of Water Supply, affected communities include Āhualoa to Waiemi Subdivision, as well as Honokaia, Puʻukapu, Nīnauele, Waimea Town, Lālāmilo Farm Lots, portions of Māna Road, parts of Māmalahoa Highway, Anekona Estates, and Kānehoa Subdivision. Affected customers are asked to reduce water use by at least 25%. Big Island Now.

Maui

Condo owners file lawsuit over Maui rentals law. Less than a week after its passage, a group of more than 40 Maui condo owners challenged the county’s new short-term rentals law, contending their property rights were violated with the requirement that they must convert their units into long-term housing. Star-Advertiser.

New electric buses set to roll out on Maui. (video only). Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Kaua‘i police make crack in homicide cold case of Amber Jackson. New developments in the 15-year-old murder cold case of Amber Jackson on Kaua‘i have led to the arrest warrant for a 57-year-old man who may now be on the Big Island. On Tuesday, the Kaua‘i Police Department issued a warrant for Gregory Glaser, who was initially identified as a person of interest in the death of Jackson, a resident of Kapa‘a. Kauai Now. Hawaii News Now. 

Green might scale back promised income tax cuts; HMSA, Hawaii Pacific Health mull merger; Pearl Harbor ceremony held without survivors for first time, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Green Suggests Hawaiʻi Might Scale Back On Income Tax Cuts. Gov. Josh Green won’t be releasing his proposed new budget for another two weeks, but he is already floating the idea that he and lawmakers may reduce the scope of the whopping state income tax cuts they approved in 2024. Civil Beat.

Commentary: Why Doesn't The Hawaiʻi Legislature Have An Electronic Voting System? Most states have them, and some lawmakers argue it would improve transparency and jolt some of their colleagues out of their complacency. Civil Beat.

Hawaiʻi's biggest shipper is shifting its China business model. Companies that ship in goods from China have adopted a strategy to diversify their supply chains. Hawaiʻi shipping company Matson is shifting its service to accommodate this China Plus One strategy.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Lack of funding puts Hawaii tourism program on hold. The Hawai‘i Tourism Authority invested upwards of $700,000 to launch the regenerative tourism program Qurator, but with no funding to keep it running, the award-winning, state-backed initiative has been put on ice. Star-Advertiser.

Hiring slowing as costs, minimum wage increase. Employee hiring among private employers dropped nationwide by 32,000 positions in November in the latest measurement of the American economy that’s also affecting Hawaii’s job market. Star-Advertiser.

Sales increase for Hawaii retailers despite tariff and inflation worries. As holiday-season crowds swelled in Hawaii’s malls and smaller local storefronts, some independent retailers say this year’s shopping surge feels nearly counterintuitive — a boost to their bottom lines even as the national economy remains fraught with uncertainty. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Pacific Health, HMSA discussing possible merger. Two of Hawaii’s largest players, Hawaii Pacific Health, which runs four hospitals on Oahu and Kauai, and Hawaii Medical Service Association, the state’s largest health insurer, are exploring a partnership. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Pearl Harbor ceremony carries on as survivors skip this year. Veterans, dignitaries and community members gathered at Pearl Harbor on Sunday to mark the 84th anniversary of the surprise attack that pulled the United States into World War II.  Only 12 survivors are still alive — all centenarians — and this year none were able to make the pilgrimage to Hawaii to mark the event Sunday. Star-Advertiser. Associated Press.  Hawaii News Now. KITV4. 

Nagasaki atomic bomb survivors in Honolulu for WWII memorial events. Nagasaki atomic bomb survivors, known as the “hibakusha,” will host events to share personal stories of the 1945 World War II atomic bombing and engage in discussions of peace as this year marks the 80th anniversary. Hawaii News Now.

First of 10 towers at Mayor Wright Homes positioned to rise next year. The first phase of a more than $1 billion plan to redevelop one of Hawaii’s oldest and biggest public housing communities is on track to begin next year after a big recent financing commitment by a state board following over a decade of work. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiʻi Patients To Join New Lawsuit Against Army Doctor Accused Of Abuse. At least 10 women who were patients of Maj. Blaine McGraw when he was a resident at Tripler Army Medical Center are lining up to sue the OB-GYN and the Army. Civil Beat.

News outlets are closer to renewed access to Honolulu police communications. A bill ordering the Honolulu Police Department to share information with news outlets has passed through its final hearing at the Honolulu City Council, though some worry community reporting on social media will suffer. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

Council questions nonprofit spending. Hawaii County Council on Tuesday advanced a $6 million package of homelessness and housing grants out of committee, but not without sharply criticizing local service providers for what members described as inefficient spending, weak accountability and uneven delivery of services. Tribune-Herald.

Ag property tax measure advances. The Hawaii County Council voted unanimously Tuesday to advance Bill 103, Draft 2, a measure that would extend a 3% annual property assessment cap to certain former agricultural parcels that also qualify for the homeowner tax class. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaiʻi County leaders outline needs, priorities to state senators during Big Island visit. During their early November visit, members of the Senate Ways and Means Committee also met with county and community leaders to receive updates on projects and initiatives relating to biosecurity, economic development and sustainability, housing, culture, and workforce pathways, which are outlined in a 20-page report. Big Island Now.

Prized cattle reunited with owners thanks to new ag crimes task force. An agricultural crimes task force created and funded by “Duke’s Law” is starting to bear fruit. Tribune-Herald.

Enormous Lava Fountain Erupts At Kilauea, Destroys Webcam. Episode 38 in the ongoing Kīlauea summit eruption ended abruptly at 8:52 p.m. HST on Saturday evening after 12.1 hours of continuous lava fountaining. Big Island Video News.

Maui

'It's about balance': Maui nears final vote to phase out thousands of vacation rentals. A measure that would close about half of vacation rentals in Maui County passed the first reading in the full council by a narrow 5-3 vote this week. Now, it’s headed to a second and final reading on Dec. 15. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui Council advances tax relief extension for Lahaina wildfire survivors. The Maui County Council unanimously passed a bill on first reading Friday that would extend real property tax relief for Lahaina wildfire survivors through June 2028. Maui Now.

Delayed Maui County Grants Leave Local Nonprofits in Limbo. The county says it is tightening up its oversight of public money to prevent fraud and abuse.  Civil Beat.

More Maui schools adopt e-bike bans or regulations following state Department of Education guidelines. It was not until last month, despite it being illegal under Hawaiʻi state law for children under the age of 15 to have or operate e-bikes, that the state Department of Education set new regulations that banned e-bikes at all elementary and intermediate schools in its system.  Maui Now.

Kauai

Kauaʻi grant aims to elevate sustainable tourism, cultural preservation efforts. The start of the new year could bring extra cash to some nonprofits on the Garden Isle through the annual Kauaʻi Cultural Program and Events Grant. Hawaii Public Radio.

Temporary service changes at Hanalei transfer station scheduled this week. Kaua‘i County Solid Waste Division reports that the transfer station serving the North Shore community will accept bagged trash only — no loose mixed waste — Friday (Dec. 12). The facility will also be completely closed to the public Saturday (Dec. 13). Kauai Now.

24k federal civilian workers in Hawaii brace for shutdown, state Elections Commission divided over mail-in voting, Waikiki bank robber suspect arrested, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

How the federal government shutdown impacts Hawaii. With 24,000 federal civilian workers in Hawaii, it is unclear how many and exactly what services could be impacted. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. 

Mail-in vs in-person: State Elections Commission divided. The state elections commission is divided over mail-in versus in-person voting, with allegations of mishandled and miscounted ballots unresolved, and some calling for the voting director to lose his job. KHON2.

State funding beefs up project possibilities for Hawaiʻi Invasive Species Council. The council received 54 funding requests for various pest-related projects, beating the 19 received last year. The nearly $5.7 million HISC has available to distribute is also the most it's had in at least the last decade. Hawaii Public Radio.

Study: 3D-printed shelters by Hawaii scientists protect baby corals. University of Hawaii at Manoa scientists have just released results from more than a year long study on the key to restoring Hawaii’s coral populations. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Honolulu councilmembers urge more department coordination during emergencies. Honolulu councilmembers pushed the city Department of Emergency Management for more coordination and public awareness for evacuation plans following the July tsunami warning. Hawaii Public Radio.

Police arrest suspect in Waikiki bank robbery. 18 people treated at scene after man released pepper spray. Officials said the 66-year-old suspect turned himself in at the Kapolei Federal Building on Tuesday and he was arrested for robbery. Hawaii News Now.

Police praise surveillance camera pilot project for deterring break-ins. The six-month, $65,000 project involves trailers placed in areas of high criminal activity. Hawaii News Now.

Family Court Must Release Records In Isabella Kalua Child Abuse Death. The Hawaiʻi Supreme Court on Tuesday broke with more than two decades of precedent to order the release of 975 pages showing how the 6-year-old was placed with parents now accused of killing her. Civil Beat.

‘You Take What You Can Get’: Hawaiʻi Brushed Off Signs Of Abuse At Foster Home. Some boys tried to warn about what was happening, but their reports were discounted or ignored. Civil Beat.

They Signed Up For Co-Living In Honolulu And Got A ‘Hell Hole’. Dozens of people have been living in a downtown office building without kitchens, air conditioning and proper ventilation. The landlord says he is working to address safety concerns and plans to convert the building to student housing. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Episode 34 eruption at Kīlauea sends lava fountains soaring. By early October 1, lava fountains had reached up to 330 feet high and were tilted slightly to the northeast.  KITV4.

Invasive species control efforts literally are paying off. Three biological control programs aimed at tackling invasive species in Hawaii are showing positive economic returns, with two delivering especially strong results, according to a recent economic analysis conducted by the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Island bus crash in Laupahoehoe sends 22 to hospital. The driver of a Hawaii County Hele-On bus that rolled down an embankment and overturned early Tuesday morning in Laupahoehoe has been relieved of his duties pending further investigation. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald.  Big Island Video News.  Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Police Department holds memorial service to honor K9 Archer. The Hawaii Police Department held a private memorial service on Tuesday to honor the life and service of K9 Archer, who died after being left unattended in a police vehicle. KITV4. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

Maui Council approves MPD participation in Joint Terrorism Task Force with the FBI. Maui County Council members have given initial approval to Bill 92, which authorizes the mayor to enter into an agreement with the Federal Bureau of Investigation for Maui County to participate in a Joint Terrorism Task Force, Honolulu Division. Maui Now.

Director of Human Concerns Lori Tsuhako to retire Dec. 31. Maui County Director of Human Concerns Lori Tsuhako, who has served as a director under three different administrations, has announced she is retiring at the end of the year. Maui News.

Maui Plans To Redraw Its Coastal Development Lines. The county has started the long process of reevaluating the Special Management Area maps that govern which parts of the island are subject to enhanced protections for environmental, cultural and historic resources.  Civil Beat.

Maui United Way joins community partners to build firebreak around Lahainaluna HS. Maui United Way brought together local alumni, community leaders and partners including Hawaiian Electric, Maui Land & Pineapple Company, Lahaina Excavation, and Maui Emergency Management Agency to launch the Lahainaluna Firebreak Initiative.  Maui Now.

Kauai

Kapa‘a Swimming Pool reopens this week following 2-week closure. Kapa‘a Swimming Pool reopens Oct. 1 for its regular schedule after Kaua‘i County Department of Parks and Recreation completed repairs of mechanical issues that caused the pool to close 2 weeks ago. Kauai Now.

Aloha ‘Ike resurrected. The Kauai Economic Development Board agreed to “resurrect” the Aloha ‘Ike program, and a fundraising gala at Royal Sonesta Kauai Resort Friday served to formalize the decision. Garden Island.