Mauna Loa volcano alert level raised, illegal firearm seizures soar, Ige signs prostitution protection bill, Kealoha lawyer quits, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hiking Mauna Loa ©2019 All Hawaii News

Federal officials raised the alert level Tuesday for the world’s largest active volcano, Mauna Loa on the Big Island, which last erupted in 1984. After Kilauea erupted last year, another Big Island volcano is experiencing 50 to 75 eruptions a week. Associated Press.

No cause for alarm despite Mauna Loa’s heightened alert level. Several months of small earthquakes and signs of magma movement underground at Mauna Loa prompted scientists Tuesday to raise the alert level by a notch for the massive volcano. Star-Advertiser.

HVO raises Mauna Loa alert level to “advisory”. Today’s increase in the Mauna Loa alert level — from “normal” to “advisory” — came just over one year after it was downgraded from advisory to normal in June 2018. Tribune-Herald.

Mauna Loa Volcano Alert Level Raised To YELLOW ADVISORY. The United States Geological Survey has raised the alert level for Mauna Loa, the largest active volcano on Earth. Big Island Video News.

Alert level increased to ‘advisory’ for Mauna Loa. Scientists have raised the alert level for Mauna Loa from normal to advisory. KHON2.

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Seizures of illegal firearms soar in Hawaii, feds say. U.S. law enforcement authorities Tuesday voiced concern about the dramatic increase in illegal firearms seized in Hawaii and the growing use of devices that can convert ordinary handguns into machine gun-like weapons. Star-Advertiser.

Authorities raise alarm about illegal use of gun conversion device in Hawaii. Federal officials are trying to crack down on criminals in Hawaii using a device that turns a semi-automatic handgun into a fully automatic weapon. Hawaii News Now.

Local Police and federal agents work to stop the use of illegal guns in Hawaii. The Project Safe Neighborhood brings all levels of law enforcement together for one goal. KHON2.

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Hawaii becomes first state with protections for those convicted of prostitution. Hawaii’s laws against sex trafficking victims eased slightly with the signing of SB1039 Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

Ige Signs First-In-Nation Law On Clearing Prostitution Convictions. The bill removes a requirement that a person be a victim of sex trafficking to have a prostitution conviction erased. Associated Press.

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Hawaii lawmakers, others urge passage of asset forfeiture bill. State Rep. Joy San Buenaventura of Puna said Tuesday civil asset forfeiture reform legislation she sponsored is in response to “innocent people whose property was seized because of legalized theft by the government.” Tribune-Herald.

Debates Over, But Gabbard’s Poll Numbers Still Dismal. Sens. Harris and Warren, meanwhile, see big gains while Biden’s popularity drops. Civil Beat.

HPD launches murder investigation into a deadly shooting of an OCCC inmate. The Honolulu Police Department is now conducting a murder investigation into the shooting death of an Oahu Community Correctional Center inmate in March. It’s the second murder investigation involving a shooting by a Department of Public Safety officer. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Kealoha attorney withdraws, citing ‘irretrievable breakdown in the attorney-client relationship’. Katherine Kealoha’s court-appointed attorney today asked to be removed from defending Kealoha, citing “an irretrievable breakdown in the attorney-client relationship, which cannot be reconciled.” Star-Advertiser.

Attorney Cites Ethical Concerns In Motion To Drop Katherine Kealoha As Client. Cynthia Kagiwada says she no longer wants to represent the former city prosecutor, who was convicted and incarcerated last week but faces additional charges. Civil Beat.

Katherine Kealoha’s attorney cites ethical issue in request to withdraw as counsel.  Citing an “irretrievable breakdown” in their relationship, and a state rule of professional conduct, court-appointed defense attorney Cynthia Kagiwada is seeking to withdraw as Katherine Kealoha’s counsel. Hawaii News Now.

Katherine Kealoha’s attorney has filed to withdraw as her counsel. KHON2.

Louis Kealoha likely to find it hard to visit wife in prison. Convicted former Police Chief Louis Kealoha likely will find it difficult to visit his wife in federal prison, where former Deputy Prosecutor Katherine Kealoha is awaiting sentencing after the couple and two Honolulu Police Department officers were found guilty last week on corruption and obstruction charges. Star-Advertiser.

Prosecutor’s Safe House For Abuse Victims To Close As Questions Swirl. The City Council cut funding for the facility, a favored project of the Honolulu prosecutor, and now it faces allegations of civil rights abuses from residents. Civil Beat.

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Honolulu Watches As California Cities Challenge Utility, Push Renewable Electricity. Both Hawaii and California share a goal of generating 100 percent renewable electricity by 2045, and the success of some California cities in meeting that goal ahead of schedule via CCA has generated some interest in Hawaii. Hawaii Public Radio.

Bulky item mountains line the streets, but city still calls appointment-based system a ‘success’. From a littered landscape in Liliha to piles of bulky trash in Kalihi, residents are crying foul over the city’s one-month-old appointment-based bulky pickup pilot from Foster Village to East Honolulu. Hawaii News Now.

Barriers added to protect King Kamehameha III’s Nuuanu summer palace. In Nuuanu, the state has made a few changes to protect King Kamehameha III summer palace after several acts of vandalism in recent years. KHON2.

No trespassing at Kamehameha summer palace. The Department of Land and Natural Resources is adding barriers around Kaniakapupu Ruins, also known as King Kamehameha's Summer Palace. The 175-years-old ruins have been trespassed and vandalized multiple times in recent years. KITV.

Safety upgrades planned for Manoa Falls Trail. For nearly two decades the Honolulu Fire Department has identified the upper portion of the Manoa Falls Trail as a hotbed for hiker injury. Star-Advertiser.

Group rallies to reopen well-known Haiku Stairs. It’s now or never, according to Friends of Haiku Stairs, a nonprofit that has been advocating for years to save the Stairway to Heaven. Star-Advertiser.

City seeks public comment regarding fate of Haiku Stairs. A decision over what to do with one of Hawaii's most well-known trails is just a few steps away. KITV.

Hawaii Island

UH-Hilo welcomes new chancellor. With drums, dance, laughs and lei, dozens gathered Tuesday morning at the University of Hawaii at Hilo for kipaepae ceremonies to celebrate the arrival of new Chancellor Bonnie Irwin and bid farewell to Interim Chancellor Marcia Sakai. Tribune-Herald.

Ceremony Honors Incoming, Outgoing UH-Hilo Chancellors. A traditional Native Hawaiian appointment ceremony was held for Chancellor Bonnie D. Irwin, whose first day on the job was July 1, 2019. Big Island Video News.

Sayres donate firetruck – gifting ceremony Saturday in Waimea. Over the years, the Daniel R. Sayre Foundation has donated ATVs, lifeguard PA systems, jaws of life, Billy Pugh nets and all kinds of other life-saving equipment. Now it’s donating a firetruck. West Hawaii Today.

Maui
Budget director: Maui County is able to pay bills. Crew worked over weekend; council budget reports still under review. Maui News.

Rapid Ohia Death Confirmed in Single Tree on Maui. Ceratocystis huliohia, the less aggressive strain of the fungal disease called Rapid Ohia Death was recently detected in a single tree on private property in East Maui, according to new information released today by the Department of Land and Natural Resources. Maui Now.

Fungus responsible for killing ohia trees spreads to Maui in first confirmed case. Rapid Ohia Death fungus is spreading — and according to the Department of Land and Natural Resources, it’s now on the Valley Isle. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

King tides bring new sand. The King tides are supposed to peak July 2 and 3, but the effects were already being felt days prior at the Salt Pond Beach Park. Garden Island.

DLNR chief faces easy confirmation, Honolulu condo sprinkler bill watered down, Kona homeless rousted, cutoff Kauai residents prepare for visitors, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

DLNR Chairwoman Suzanne Case PC:DLNR

Senate panel recommends reappointment of Suzanne Case to lead Hawaii land department. The committee also voted unanimously to approve Robert Masuda as DLNR’s deputy director. Star-Advertiser.

Senate Committee Recommends Confirming Case As DLNR Chair. The vote was unanimous in favor of the governor’s nomination to head the state land department. Civil Beat.

The State Senate voted to confirm Scott T. Murakami and Leonard Hoshijo as the director and deputy director of the Hawaii State Department of Labor and Industrial Relations.  Maui Now.

Lawmaker seeks study on sliding-scale tickets. A leading lawmaker who deals with issues of crime and punishment in Hawaii wants to study the concept of “fair and proportional” fines, which means a schedule of fines for traffic or other violations that requires rich people to pay more than poor people. Star-Advertiser.

Group Opposed To Taxing Billions In Real Estate Trusts Is A Big Spender At Capital. The national association supporting owners of some of Hawaii’s premier commercial locations spent $126,000 in two months — but a bill to tax them is still alive. Civil Beat.

Final road usage charge meetings set. The Department of Transportation is holding its final three of 14 community meetings on its proposed road usage charge instead of fuel tax paid at the pump. Star-Advertiser.

HDOT still seeking your thoughts on a proposal to tax drivers by the mile. The idea behind the tax is to charge drivers for the distance they drive in place of the current fuel tax — which brings the state 16 cents per gallon of gas at the pump. Hawaii News Now.

Navy remembers North Korean shoot-down on 50th anniversary. Twenty-one relatives of three fallen crew members traveled to Oahu and Ford Island for a memorial ceremony organized by Navy Information Operations Command Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

The High Price Of Luring The Movies To Hawaii. The film industry says the state’s $35 million cap on tax credits is too low, costing Hawaii projects and jobs. But some question whether the benefits are worth the cost. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Raises $1.9 Million In Bid For White House. Meanwhile, Kai Kahele, the state senator vying to take her congressional seat, says he feels good about the $250,000 he raised so far. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Sprinkler bill allows easier compliance for condo owners. A bill making it easier for owners of older high-rise residential buildings to meet a tougher fire safety law comes up for a final vote before the Honolulu City Council on Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Grandma’s Deposition In Kealoha Corruption Case Postponed. Florence Puana was hospitalized over the weekend. Prosecutors want to question her early because of her poor health. Civil Beat.

Katherine Kealoha’s grandmother, Florence Puana, is appealing the case that ended with her paying more than $100,000 of Kealoha’s legal fees. The 99-year-old was ordered to pay up after losing her state lawsuit against Kealoha several years ago. Hawaii News Now.

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Commentary: This Is Why We Rarely Rely On Anonymous Sources. Readers should be able to know and trust where your information is coming from. But public officials also have a responsibility to speak up and correct erroneous reporting. Civil Beat.

High-ranking deputy Prosecutor Janice Futa is denying that she has received a subject letter from the FBI. In December, Hawaii News Now reported Futa received a subject letter. Based on Futa’s denial in court documents, Hawaii News Now has removed references to the letter from prior online stories. Hawaii News Now.

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Recycling rates have been dropping on Oahu, while the cost of the program has been rising...thanks in part to contaminated recyclables in those blue bins. KITV.

Windward Mall Sears to close on April 28. The Kaneohe department store will close April 28 — shortly after Wednesday’s shutdown of the auto center. Star-Advertiser.

Sears at Windward Mall to close this month. Officials said Monday that Sears at Windward Mall would close April 28. The auto center will be closing much earlier -- on Wednesday. Hawaii News Now.

Urban Honolulu has lost 76,000 trees in the last four years, aerial survey finds. The big loss in numbers is one of the reasons a group of volunteers headed to Kaimuki District Park on Monday morning. Their mission was not just to count the trees, but to help in an effort to get more trees planted and cared for. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

DOT empties homeless encampment near busy Kona intersection. Cleanup crews targeted two main sites in Kona on Monday — the Palani Road and Queen Kaahumanu Highway intersection where nine homeless individuals were informed a week prior they had seven days to collect their possessions and go, and the Tunnels where two individuals were given the same warning on the same day. West Hawaii Today.

A Hawaii nonprofit was awarded a $750,000 grant to preserve a 32-unit apartment complex in Pahoa. The grant money will serve to preserve the 32 units of the Nani O Puna apartment complex. Tribune-Herald.

Commission denies approval for too big of signs already in place at Planet Fitness.  West Hawaii Today.

Heavy rainfall leads to another stormwater discharge at dairy. Because of heavy rainfall during the past week, Ookala-based Big Island Dairy on Monday again discharged stormwater collected in its wastewater lagoons. Tribune-Herald.

Final EA For New Kona Museum Gallery Published. The Kona Historical Society says the new building will be a benefit to the South Kona area, which currently lacks community program and gallery space. Big Island Video News.

Mauna Loa activity rises. The Hawaii Volcano Observatory is monitoring Mauna Loa closely as the volcano shows signs of increasing activity following the Kilauea eruption. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The Maui County Council will hold a public hearing on the mayor’s proposed budget for next fiscal year at 6 p.m. Wednesday in the Council Chambers at the Kalana O Maui building in Wailuku. Mayor Michael Victorino has proposed a $781 million budget for the 2020 fiscal year, which begins July 1. Maui News.

County looking to convert two West Maui water wells. Proposal would turn exploratory wells into full production wells. Maui News.

$254K in county grants disbursed. Seabird recovery work, electric vehicle charging stations and the annual whale festival are among projects slated to receive money through the county Office of Economic Development. Maui News.

Kauai

As Kauai Highway Prepares To Reopen, State Plans Limits On Haena Park Visitors. The state Department of Transportation plans to phase-in the re-opening of Kuhio Highway beginning in May and plans to limit visitors when the Haena State Park and popular Kalalau Trail is scheduled to re-open in June. Hawaii Public Radio.

Even though Kuhio Highway is scheduled to reopen May 1, the main attractions on the North Shore will remain closed. Garden Island.

Some Kauai residents, cut off by damage for a year, will miss life in the slow lane. Star-Advertiser.

Kalalau Trail and the Napali State Wilderness Park are set to open in early-mid June. The trail is monitored by the Department of Land and Natural Resources and a few locals who have taken it upon themselves to protect the public and the place itself, but a couple of people have made it down the trail a little ways. Garden Island.

Mauna Loa mac nut products recalled, violent crime up, worst state in nation for teachers, trans health report released, rail costs rise, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Mauna Loa mac nuts ©2018 All Hawaii News

Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut recalls products following detection of E. coli. Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut has voluntarily recalled products produced at the company’s Keaau facility between Sept. 6 and 21 due to potential contamination of Eschericia coli (E. coli). Pacific Business News.

Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Corp. is voluntarily recalling all items produced from its facility in Keaau between Sept. 6 and 21 due to potential E. coli contamination, state health officials announced today. Star-Advertiser.

Full list of recalled Mauna Loa products can be found here.

Mauna Loa releases full list of mac nut products recalled over potential E. coli concerns. A variety of Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Company products produced on the Big Island earlier this month have been voluntarily recalled due to potential E. coli contamination, according to the state Department of Health. Hawaii News Now.

Voluntary recall issued for Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut products. A variety of Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut products produced Sept. 6-21 at the company’s Keaau facility were voluntarily recalled because of potential E. coli contamination, the state Department of Health announced Monday. Tribune-Herald.

Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut products have been recalled over possible E. coli contamination. KHON2.

Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut products produced at their Kea'au facility have been recalled, due to possible E. coli contamination. Detection of E. coli was found in the well water and distribution system supplying the facility in Keaau. KITV.

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Hawaii’s Crack Seed Shops May Be The Losers In Trump Trade Dispute. The iconic fruit snacks that have been enjoyed for generations were already getting hard to find. Star-Advertiser.

Violent crime ticked up in Hawaii last year, while number of property crimes declined. The number of violent crimes statewide last year ticked up, but the violent crime rate in Hawaii still remains well below the nation, according to newly-released figures from the FBI. Hawaii News Now.

Public sector workers stick to unions. Despite fears of an exodus in the wake of a Supreme Court ruling that government workers cannot be required to contribute to labor unions, Hawaii’s government workers have largely maintained their memberships in public sector unions. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Unions Say Little Has Changed Since Landmark Janus Decision. Union supporters had feared the opinion by U.S. Supreme Court’s conservative majority would erode union membership. Civil Beat.

This Ballot Measure Is Sparking Intense Debate Over Hawaii’s Schools. The proposed constitutional amendment is already one of the most contentious issues to go before voters in the 2018 election. Civil Beat.

Some school officials are getting a raise thanks to a Hawaii Board of Education decision to increase of wages for the deputy superintendent, assistant superintendents and complex area superintendents. Garden Island.

Study: Hawaii is Worst State in Nation for Teachers. Hawaii is ranked last in the nation, claiming the undesirable distinction as the worst state for teachers, according to a new study released today by the personal-finance website WalletHub. Maui Now.

Hawaii named worst state for teachers in U.S. Hawaii has been named the worst state for teachers in the country, according to a new study. Pacific Business News.

Trans youth at higher risk for health problems. Transgender youth in Hawaii are significantly more likely to use tobacco, alcohol and other drugs than their non-transgender peers, resulting in greater health issues, a new state report shows. Star-Advertiser.

Department of Health publishes first report focused on Hawaii transgender youth. KHON2.

The Hawaii Department of Health today released the Hawaii Sexual and Gender Minority Health Report 2018. This is the first state report with a special focus on health issues faced by Hawaii transgender youth. Three percent, or 1,260 public high school students statewide, self-identify as transgender. Maui Now.

The colorful pa'u riders are one of the most unique features of any parade here in the Hawaiian Islands. Draped in yards of brightly colored fabric and decked in lei, pa'u riders continue an old equestrian tradition. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

FTA tells HART to find extra $134M for rail. Honolulu must increase the official price tag for construction of the 20-mile rail project by another $134 million for the Federal Transit Administration to be satisfied that the city has enough money to complete the project, according to Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation Executive Director Andrew Robbins. Star-Advertiser.

HART CEO optimistic after meeting FTA officials. KHON2.

These Two City Council Candidates Are Political Worlds Apart. In the shadow of Honolulu rail, one envisions a future built around train stations. The other wants to rein in runaway rail spending. Civil Beat.

Upon closer inspection, corrosion may be eating away at Red Hill storage tanks. A new study suggests that the Navy's massive Red Hill fuel tanks are in worse shape than initially thought. Hawaii News Now.

A Pedestrian-Bicycle Bridge Crossing Proposed for Ala Wai Canal. The Ala Pono project is exploring the possibility of building a new bicycle and pedestrian bridge across the Ala Wai Canal. Hawaii Public Radio.

A large crowd gathered Monday night at Ala Wai Elementary School as residents heard from Mayor Kirk Caldwell about plans to build a bridge between the Waikiki, Ala Moana and McCully neighborhoods. KITV.

Sidewalk bill would also apply to mobile kiosk vendors. The debate over a bill that bars people from obstructing public sidewalks has focused largely on what it means for the homeless who camp there. Star-Advertiser.

HPD, city investigating claim DMV worker made unwanted advances during road test. Both the Honolulu Police Department and the city are investigating a sex assault claim made against a city DMV worker. KHON2.

More than 14K pounds of debris cleared from Makua in massive cleanup. An army of volunteers helped pull off the biggest beach cleanup in Makua history. Hawaii News Now.

Waipio raw sewage spill did not reach ocean, city officials say. City officials say a break to a wastewater force main late Saturday caused about 614,400 gallons of raw sewage to spill onto undeveloped Navy land near the Waipio Soccer Complex in Waipahu. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu ABC affiliate KITV's HQ for sale with no asking price. The commercial condominium unit at One Archer Lane, home to Honolulu ABC affiliate KITV, is on the market for sale with no asking price. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Public invited to provide input on Maunakea administrative rules. Monday, kicked off the first of four public hearings to discuss proposed rules for public and commercial activities atop Mauna Kea. KHON2.

Dozens attended a public hearing, on Monday evening, to weigh in on a set of proposed rules meant to regulate public and commercial activities on UH-managed lands atop Maunakea. KITV.

New UH-Hilo dorm struggling to fill. Preliminary numbers show a dip in the occupancy rate for the University of Hawaii at Hilo’s newest dormitory, Hale Alahonua, which has struggled to reach capacity since it opened in fall 2013. Tribune-Herald.

Robert Lindsey Gifts Sonny Kaniho Book To OHA. Staff handed out copies of Lindsey’s book, Sonny Kaniho: A Profile in Hawaiian Courage, which chronicles Kaniho’s efforts to bring about change and reform within the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands. Big Island Video News.

Forum set for developmentally disabled advocacy in West Hawaii. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Bond sale garners $113.9M for county. $12.1 million will be used to prepay and refund existing higher interest rate loans and bonds. Maui News.

Maui Family Support Services will receive a $1 million federal grant to support its Quality Care for Hawaiian Keiki Project, U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz announced Tuesday. Maui News.

Genetic testing offers hope to catch some cancers early. Napili retreat allows survivors to share their stories, learn healthy living alternatives. Maui News.

Kauai

Officials are throwing the spotlight on marine law enforcement with a new report called StoryMap, detailing and mapping nine completed marine protection investigations in Hawaii. Three of the nine cases are on Kauai, and they all involve monk seals. Garden Island.

It’s been months since historic flooding wreaked havoc on Kauai, but the impact of the flood-waters is still being felt by those living in the hardest hit communities on the island. Garden Island.

Hawaii Supreme Court hears Thirty Meter Telescope case, Kilauea volcano simmers, teachers quitting at 'alarming' rate, Caldwell to decide budget and rail costs today, Hawaii County to reconsider GET, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Telescopes atop Mauna Kea ©2018 All Hawaii News

Once again the fate of the stalled Thirty Meter Telescope rests with the state Supreme Court following oral arguments on Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Supreme Court Hears New Arguments Over Thirty Meter Telescope. Opponents say a state appeals judge had a conflict of interest when she granted a permit for the project. Associated Press.

After a three-year legal battle, the fate of the Thirty Meter Telescope will now be decided by the Hawaii Supreme Court. Hawaii News Now.

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Online tax law could open state to challenge. A U.S. Supreme Court ruling Thursday that online retailers can be required to collect sales taxes in states where they don’t have a physical presence appears to be a boon for Hawaii’s tax coffers under a bill Gov. David Ige signed into law last week stipulating that online businesses with significant sales are subject to Hawaii’s general excise tax. Star-Advertiser.

The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that states can levy sales taxes on purchases made through out-of-state online retailers, dealing a blow to Wayfair Inc. and other companies that have fought taxation. Pacific Business News.

Many on-line purchases will now be taxed after recent Supreme Court ruling. KHON2.

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Hawaii Farm to School program receives $100,000 of federal funding. KITV.

All 8 Lieutenant Governor Candidates Together for the First Time. The 5 Democrats and 3 Republicans running for Lieutenant Governor appeared together for the first time. Hawaii Public Radio.

Campaign Cash: A Tale Of Two Bert Kobayashis. Two longtime Honolulu political donors with the same name are going different directions in the Hawaii governor’s race. Civil Beat.

How Low Is Hawaii Voter Turnout? In the 2016 general election, turnout estimates ranged from 43 percent to 58 percent — depending on what formula is used. Civil Beat.

The number of teachers quitting their jobs in Hawaii’s public schools and leaving the state has shot up by 84 percent since 2010, and fewer local graduates are entering the profession, worsening the teacher shortage. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's high cost of living is spurring Hawaii teachers to quit their jobs at an alarming rate. Hawaii News Now.

Ongoing teacher shortage sparks debate. KHON2.

More students will get assistance with education costs after legislation expanding the Hawaii Promise scholarship program was signed by Gov. David Ige earlier this month. Tribune-Herald.

An 800-pound chunk from the USS Arizona battleship that sank during the Japanese bombing of Pearl Harbor is heading to Texas for display at a war memorial. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

The recently completed $375 million Kaneohe-Kailua Wastewater Conveyance and Treatment Facilities project, which features the state’s first gravity-fed underground sewage tunnel, is expected to lower energy costs, reduce the risk for overflows during storms, offer odor relief for Aikahi area residents and possibly provide more sewage capacity for the area. Star-Advertiser.

A three-year, $375 million project to build a gravity sewer tunnel and make other infrastructure upgrades in Windward Oahu was officially wrapped up Thursday. Hawaii News Now.

Mayor Caldwell to render decision on city and HART budget bills. KHON2.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell said a bill he submitted Thursday to the Honolulu City Council will “level the playing field” for ride-hailing companies and traditional taxicab companies. Star-Advertiser.

Child sex crimes, prostitution alleged at Hawaii home for naked parties. Hawaii News Now.

Marks Garage, the reliable Pauahi Street parking oasis and epicenter of the downtown arts scene, has been sold to a mainland real estate investment trust for more than $20 million. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

It ain’t over till it’s over. Baseball great Yogi Berra’s famous quote could well apply to the general excise tax hike in Hawaii County, which is coming back in a special June 29 County Council meeting, just one day shy of the state-imposed deadline to pass it. West Hawaii Today.

As the reality of the county’s budget crisis sank in Thursday, Mayor Harry Kim held an emergency Cabinet meeting seeking $5 million in cuts, and the Salary Commission voted to postpone discussion of a new round of top officials’ raises until August. West Hawaii Today.

Mauna Loa alert level lowered. Tribune-Herald.

Mauna Loa Alert Level Downgraded. Hawaii Island's massive volcano goes from an "advisory" to "normal" volcano alert level, and the aviation notice from "yellow" to "green". Big Island Video News.

After keeping many people on edge, the U.S. Geological Survey has dropped the alert level at Mauna Loa from “Advisory” to “Normal”. Big Island Video News.

An increasing number of Hawaii residents and tourists have been so determined to see flowing lava from the ground on Hawaii island that they have been risking fines and potentially jail by sneaking into restricted zones. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Department of Transportation has brought a Puna traffic resource back online, and is planning to create a new, alternative path around Highway 130. Big Island Video News.

Volunteers warm lava evacuees' hearts — by filling their stomachs. Hawaii News Now.

'We probably will not ever return.' Park official reflects on Kilauea's past, present, and future. KHON2.

Guardsman reflects on time spent in eruption zone. Tribune-Herald.

Free medical care available this weekend for Big Isle residents. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

One more meeting left to consider charter changes. Council panel loses quorum; July 2 last meeting to review proposed amendments. Maui News.

Wailea, Maui is a Top Emerging Summer Travel Destination. Maui Now.

Starting Sunday, July 1, the Maui Bus will begin a new Waihee Villager route #8 and will change service on Kula Villager route #39. Maui Now.

Kauai

While China put the kibosh on accepting plastic waste from other countries, Kauai Recycles drop bins have nearly doubled in the past fiscal year. Garden Island.

Transparency a problem for Hawaii Gov. Ige, lieutenant governor wants more responsibility, death with dignity petition gathers names, two-year-old issues surface for Maui mayor, weakened ethics bill advances on Big Island, Lanai short of affordable housing, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. David Ige at 2014 inauguration, courtesy photo

Gov. David Ige made open government an important part of his campaign for governor. But since assuming the governorship 10 months ago, Ige has fallen short on some of his key campaign promises when it comes to government transparency. Star-Advertiser.

Lt. Gov. Shan Tsutsui  is pushing for a bill in the Legislature that will change the election process for lieutenant governors. Instead of running separately, the governor would select a lieutenant governor as a running mate. Star-Advertiser.

The state Department of Labor and Industrial Relations continues to smooth out the process of keeping elevators safe and up to code. Tribune-Herald.

‘Death With Dignity’ for Hawaii? An online petition aims to persuade House Speaker Joe Souki to take up physician-assisted suicide at the Legislature. Civil Beat.

A government council says Hawaii’s longline fishing fleet is suffering a big economic impact because of quotas and that in turn means consumers are paying a high price at the market. KHON2.

Oahu

Ansaldo Honolulu JV, the firm that won the largest contract in state history to deliver rail’s train cars and signaling system, recently understaffed key job positions at a “critical juncture” of the transit project, according to the agency overseeing rail. Star-Advertiser.

A Honolulu City Council idea to provide property tax breaks to businesses suffering from construction of the rail project is being panned by the Caldwell administration for lacking specific details. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell often gets showered in mochi, manapua and mangoes. But he also gets treated to an occasional free meal or gift basket. While some of these goodies come from colleagues on neighbor islands — such as Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa, who gave Caldwell some lychee and guri guri ice cream in June — other gifts come from well-heeled business types, a review of his gift log shows. Civil Beat.

A “God bless the military” sign is staying up at the Marine base in Kaneohe, despite cries from a religious freedom group that the message is unconstitutional. Star-Advertiser.

Friday was supposed to be the last day of the Kakaako homeless encampment. But the remnants of what was once the biggest homeless community in Honolulu will remain until Tuesday, as the city’s maintenance crew needs an extra day to finish the cleanup work. Civil Beat.

Large homeless camps along the Kapalama Canal and in Kakaako are being swept away, but to where? Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii Department of Agriculture hopes to start construction in about a year on its 150-acre, $23 million Kunia Agricultural Park project in Central Oahu, which would afford 23 lessees the ability to farm and live on the property. Pacific Business News.

Family and friends say 25-year-old Colin Cook lost most of his leg in a shark attack off Oahu’s North Shore. Associated Press.

Hawaii

A weakened bill attempting to tighten county ethics standards is trudging toward its eighth hearing this year before the Hawaii County Council, as council members work to hack off all the offending pieces. West Hawaii Today.

An East Hawaii developer says he hopes to jump-start the economy along the Hamakua Coast with a new, multiuse project rooted in the property’s history. Meanwhile, some neighbors of the 9-acre parcel in Hakalau are awaiting a decision regarding their request that the county purchase the land to preserve it as a park. Tribune-Herald.

Following a strong showing at a public listening session last month, proponents of a ratepayer-owned electric utility on Hawaii Island continue to push what they see as a superior alternative to the proposed $4.3 billion acquisition of Hawaii Electric Light Co. by Florida-based NextEra Energy Inc. Tribune-Herald.

While it’s not clear where it will be placed, University of Hawaii at Hilo still plans to buy a new teaching telescope after being told to remove its tiny observatory from Mauna Kea. Tribune-Herald.

The emergency rules enacted by the State of Hawaii restricting access to Mauna Kea have been invalidated by the Circuit Court of the Third Circuit. Judge Ronald Ibarra made the ruling Friday. Big Island Video News.

You can see the imposing mass of Mauna Loa from space. It encompasses more than half of Hawaii Island, rises 13,680 feet above the Pacific, and is so heavy it depresses the ocean floor below it almost 5 miles. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

A secretly recorded conversation exposes unguarded talk among four officials in the administration of Mayor Alan Arakawa in March 2013 - more than a year before Arakawa would seek re-election for an unprecedented third four-year term. Maui News.

It's no secret that film producer Ryan Kavanaugh was generous to Mayor Alan Arakawa and those close to him, which was something the mayor discussed publicly during the March 9, 2013, Mayor's Kokua Ball at the King Kamehameha Golf Course clubhouse in Waikapu. Maui News.

The agency that measures air quality from pollutant-producing businesses is fining Maui County along with seven businesses and two Kauai agencies for failing to pass air quality tests. Associated Press.

An old Pioneer Mill cane haul road is being planned as a new roadway to relieve congestion on Honoapiilani Highway, where southbound traffic is expected to increase by 50 percent over the next five years, according to construction plans. Maui News.

The Upcountry water meter priority list has gone from 1,887 properties in 2013, when the list was closed, to 1,765 as of Friday, about a year after the water department began issuing meters to long-waiting applicants. Maui News.

Kauai

A pair of state lawmakers said a pay raise resolution passed this week by the County Council probably won’t amount to much any time soon. Garden Island.

There’s a new sugar plantation on Kauai. The waving fields of cane cover 7 acres, and they represent one new-but-old facet of the broad diversity of agriculture on the island. Garden Island.

Lanai

Lanai residents frustrated with the shortage of affordable housing on the island confronted Mayor Alan Arakawa during his administration's annual community budget meeting Thursday night on Lanai. Maui News.

Mauna Loa threatens to erupt, Pearl Harbor fuel leaks accumulate, Mauna Kea Thirty Meter Telescope protesters end 24-hour vigil in deal with state, Honolulu homeless sweeps continue despite lawsuit, Hanalei River work resumes, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Mauna Loa eruption March 26, 1984 photo by J.D. Griggs, courtesy Hawaiian Volcano Observatory

Rumblings under the world’s largest active volcano prompted scientists Thursday to raise the alert level for Mauna Loa. The volcano sent lava toward Hilo when it last erupted in 1984. Star-Advertiser.

More than 31 years after Mauna Loa last erupted, sending lava within 4.5 miles of Hilo, the largest active volcano in the world is showing signs of unrest. West Hawaii Today.

Scientists at Hawaiian Volcano Observatory on Thursday raised the alert level for Mauna Loa from “normal” to “advisory.” Tribune-Herald.

The last time Mauna Loa erupted was March 25, 1984. The 22-day eruption of the world’s largest volcano sent lava from the mountain’s northeast rift zone toward Hilo and Kulani Correctional Facility, then known as Kulani Prison. Tribune-Herald.

The amount of small earthquakes beneath the summit of Mauna Loa has more than tripled recently prompting the U.S. Geological Survey to increase the volcano alert level from "normal" to "advisory".   On the color scale, it went from green to yellow. Hawaii News Now.

For the first time in more than thirty years, scientists at the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory have raised the alert level for Mauna Loa. Hawaii Public Radio.

The number of people in Hawaii without health insurance is on the decline, according to the latest U.S. Census Bureau data released Thursday. The percent of the Hawaii population with no health insurance coverage was 5.3 percent in 2014, less than 6.7 percent of the population in 2013. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

For decades, leaks from Pearl Harbor's fuel tanks and other sources have been collecting beneath the ground near the naval base's Halawa gate. Hawaii News Now has obtained records issued by the Navy that indicate that the subsurface oil plume there now contains more than 5 million gallons of fuel.

A day after a lawsuit was filed to stop sweeps at homeless encampments, a city maintenance crew cleared personal belongings from a Kakaako block Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Thursday’s sweep, the second in as many weeks in Kakaako, came one day after a class-action lawsuit was filed in federal court in an attempt to prevent more sweeps. Civil Beat.

About a dozen illegal campers who set up on the sidewalk near the UH medical school have now been evicted. KITV4.

The City conducted a second “sweep” in Kaka’ako today to enforce the sidewalk nuisance ordinance. Hawaii Public Radio.

City officials announced a proposal Thursday to develop temporary modular housing in Waianae for homeless families on the Leeward side. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell says his plan to provide housing for the homeless who are living in Waikiki, Chinatown and Oahu’s west side is taking shape. On Thursday, the mayor announced plans for a new temporary housing facility just off Farrington Highway near Waianae High School. KITV4.

Gifts Given to Honolulu Officials Remain Under Wraps. Ethics rules require state officials to file mandatory gift disclosure forms every year. That’s not the case for the City and County of Honolulu. Civil Beat.

A city prosecutor in Honolulu is asking lawmakers to decriminalize certain petty offenses, saying they’re clogging courts. Associated Press.

Why some parks get priority while others look forgotten. KHON2.

A local nonprofit launched an effort Wednesday to pull together more than two dozen stakeholders to create a community-driven, science-based plan to restore Maunalua Bay on the east side of Oahu. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

After 176 days on Mauna Kea, the Native Hawaiians protesting the planned Thirty Meter Telescope agreed to end their 24-hour vigil Thursday and remove a large tent from their camp. Star-Advertiser.

Thirty Meter Telescope opponents agreed to remove a tent from their campsite on Mauna Kea shortly before a deadline Thursday. Tribune-Herald.

The State Department of Land and Natural Resources says they have reached an understanding with Thirty Meter Telescope opponents concerning the removal of the tent across the street from the Mauna Kea Visitors Center. Big Island Video News.

Opponents of the construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope atop Mauna Kea will comply with the Department of Land and Natural Resources’ request to remove their large tent, which is located across from the Mauna Kea Visitors Center. Big Island Now.

Hawaii island’s economy has been resilient in the face of tropical storms and overflowing lava but now faces another potential financial blow in the form of disruption of the Thirty Meter Telescope on Mauna Kea. Star-Advertiser.

A University of Hawaii economist offered a positive outlook for the Big Island’s economic future during a Thursday presentation, but cautioned that events on Mauna Kea could harm that forecast. Tribune-Herald.

Concerns about public access to the shoreline are delaying plans for the Kahaluu Ma Kai education center in Kailua-Kona at the site of the Keauhou Beach Hotel. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Homelessness in Wailuku town has reached a breaking point for many residents and merchants, who are concerned about recent increases in violence and crime and are demanding more security for their streets. Maui News.

Goodfellow Bros., Inc., issued a notice to motorists, informing the public of planned construction, scheduled to start on Monday, Sept. 21.  The company is conducting the work in conjunction with the State of Hawaiʻi, Department of Transportation, with roadway improvements planned along Hāna Highway from Huelo to Hāna. Maui Now.

Kauai

State regulators have resumed work at a Hanalei River restoration project site after a week of inactivity due to heavy rainfall. Garden Island.

Opponents of a proposed dairy in Mahaulepu on Kauai are calling on Gov. David Ige to take notice of community concerns surrounding the proposed Hawaii Dairy Farms operation. Associated Press.

Discovery Land Co., which was tapped to manage the $500 million redevelopment of 1,103 acres of the Princeville at Hanalei resort on Kauai’s North Shore, as well as the Prince Golf Course earlier this year, is no longer managing the project, one of the landowners confirmed to Pacific Business News.

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

Hiking Mauna Loa © 2014 All Hawaii News

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

State roundup for Sept. 15. Associated Press.

Oahu

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

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

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

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

Hawaii

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

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

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

Maui

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

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

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

Kauai

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

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

Hawaii airfares rise, state lawmakers tackle hot schools, legislator continues fight against sex-ed class, UH cancer director keeps job, Honolulu councilman to run for state Senate, monitors planned near geothermal plant, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Airplane over Waikiki sunset (c) 2014 All Hawaii News

The chief executive of Hawaiian Airlines says airfares that have risen for travelers throughout Hawaii are reasonable given rises in fuel costs, government fees and other operating costs. Associated Press.

Ask most folks about the cost of an airline ticket these days, and they’ll tell you they’re too high. Cost too much. No reason for those airfares to be what they are, other than filling the pockets of CEOs. We have no choice here on Kauai, some say, so the airlines are sticking it to us. Mark Dunkerley says otherwise. Garden Island.

Hawaii’s blistering classrooms could soon see cooler days if state lawmakers decide to give public schools money this year for air conditioning, a rare commodity that’s lacking even in the hottest parts of the islands. Legislators on the education committees expect classroom cooling to get some buzz during the upcoming legislative session, which kicks off Jan. 15. Civil Beat.

About 640 children from low-income families across the state will be eligible to enroll in pre-kindergarten classes next year at 30 public school campuses that were announced Thursday by the state's Executive Office on Early Learning and the Department of Education. The plan is contingent on $4.5 million in state funding that legislators have yet to consider. But Gov. Neil Abercrombie says he's confident the Legislature will make the investment. Star-Advertiser.

It's a topic that's been on the table for quite some time -- a state-funded pre-kindergarten program for 4-year-olds. On Thursday, the state announced that it finally hopes to have one in place by August. KHON2.

A state House lawmaker complained Thursday that a pilot sex education curriculum for middle school students is not medically accurate or age appropriate, and deliberately minimizes the health risks of homosexual behavior. Pono Choices is part of the state Department of Education's abstinence-based sex education policy but also emphasizes condom use to reduce the risk of teen pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. The pilot curriculum is now in 12 schools, with eight other schools scheduled for training. Star-Advertiser.

There's more controversy over the state's Pono Choices sex education program. This time it involves one of the controversial curriculum's critics. Tito Montes, president of the Hawaii Republican Assembly, is under fire for calling a respected Hawaiian leader and cultural practicioner a "transvestite" and a "drag queen." Hawaii News Now.

Bob McDermott, it seems, is obsessed with anuses. In particular, the state legislator believes that the anus is not the same as a penis or a vagina because it isn't involved in making babies. Public schools should not teach kids in grades 6-8 that anal sex is appropriate behavior — something the Republican representing Ewa, Ewa Beach and Iroquois Point, argues is part of the "agenda" of a Department of Education sex-ed program called Pono Choices. Civil Beat.

There are 210 days left before the Primary Election and the race for Hawai’i’s U.S. Senate seat will be gearing up for what could be a close vote. Hawaii Public Radio.

The U.S. Attorney's office in Hawaii says it collected more than $2.4 million in civil and criminal actions for the 2013 fiscal year. U.S. Attorney Florence Nakakuni announced Thursday $1.5 million was collected in criminal actions and about $930,000 was collected in civil actions. Associated Press.

The Hawaii House and Senate majorities are planning to advance legislation this session that would put the state on a timetable to determine the potential impacts of climate change in Hawaii and implement policies to counteract them. Lawmakers met Thursday during an informational briefing at the state Capitol that was called in response to recent destructive coastal erosion on Oahu’s North Shore. Civil Beat.

Gordon Ito, insurance commissioner for the state of Hawaii, has an inbox filled with all matters relating to regulating insurance in the islands, with the exception of paying workers' compensation benefits. Earlier this week, the Insurance Division released rate guides for health, homeowner and car policies, posting them online (cca.hawaii.gov/ins). Star-Advertiser.

A new plan to calm a broadening controversy at the University of Hawaii Cancer Center won't solve the main problems, according to least a half-dozen faculty members who have spoken out, written letters or filed complaints with the university. Civil Beat.

Michele Carbone, the embattled director of the University of Hawaii Cancer Center, will retain his job under a revamped leadership team that will include a chief operating officer and senior adviser as well as new reporting lines, the university announced Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

State roundup for January 10. Associated Press.

Oahu
Honolulu City Councilman Breene Harimoto announced this week that he is forgoing a re-election bid this fall to run for the state Senate 16th District seat. Meanwhile, Harimoto legislative aide Brandon Ele­fante said he intends to run for the seat his boss is leaving behind. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu officials continue to negotiate with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development over how much money the city owes the federal agency for mismanaging grant funds that were given to a Central Oahu nonprofit. HUD just lowered their demand to $3 million. Civil Beat.

Reviews from the Waikiki community were mixed upon getting the first glimpse of the planned Ritz-Carlton Waikiki Beach Residences luxury tower and an adjacent second tower in their totality. The developer, PACREP LLC, held a community meeting Thursday night in Wai­kiki to respond to the community furor that broke out last month when it filed plans with the city to construct a 39-story tower at 2139 Kuhio Ave., which will be a stand-alone, 350-foot building with up to 280 units. Star-Advertiser.

“How do you musubi?” That’s the theme of 12 television commercials featuring Spam that Hormel Foods is filming in Hawaii, in partnership with Aloha Plate food truck and Cooking Hawaiian Style. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

The Windward Planning Commission made a small first step Thursday toward funding some of the recommendations of the geothermal working group. The commission’s agenda included requests from Mayor Billy Kenoi to tap the county’s geothermal asset fund for several of the group’s recommended projects, including the purchase of stationary and hand-held gas monitors. Tribune-Herald.

Mauna Loa, the world’s largest active volcano, has erupted many times — most recently three decades ago with lava coming within just miles of Hilo — and it will erupt again, posing a significant risk to those who call Hawaii Island home, a Hawaii Volcano Observatory geologist said Wednesday. But, the million dollar question remains: When is Mauna Loa going to erupt again? West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The County of Maui, Office of the Mayor in partnership with the state Department of Agriculture issued an urgent advisory this afternoon asking the public to check hāpuʻu tree ferns purchased on Maui over the last 12 months for little fire ants. Maui Now.

Despite a public notice and signs telling people to stay away, motorists are still trying to drive around the north side of West Maui and getting caught in a road-paving project area with no option except to turn around, Maui County officials said. Maui News.

Kauai

Little fire ants, considered one of the world’s smallest and nastiest invasive species, are back in the spotlight after turning up on Oahu and Maui last month. Garden Island.


Molokai

Students at Molokai High School will get science classroom labs up to state Department of Education standards to replace their makeshift ones in a construction project set to begin this year. Maui News.