Exploring Hawaii's coral reefs, slowing economy is new normal, raises for lawmakers but not minimum wage, Anderson to chair Honolulu council, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii coral reef ©2019 All Hawaii News

Hawaii’s reefs provide more than $835M in flood protection, study shows. A new study places a dollar value on Hawaii’s reefs — not for their natural beauty or as a tourist attraction, but for their function in providing flood protection. Star-Advertiser.

Researchers put a dollar value on the protection coral reefs provide Hawaii shorelines ... and it’s big. Hawaii News Now.

Upcoming summit on climate change addresses more than just environment. Experts say the problem reaches into social, humanitarian, and even architectural matters. KITV.

Hawaii scientists develop technique using DNA to study coral reefs. With coral reefs coming under increasing threat from climate change, University of Hawaii at Manoa scientists have developed a technique that could help the biologists working to save them. Star-Advertiser.

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Economists say slower growth is ‘new normal’. University of Hawaii economists say the state’s slowing growth is becoming more entrenched and people had better get used to it. Star-Advertiser.

Lawmakers didn’t pass a minimum wage hike, but are getting raises of their own. State lawmakers who couldn’t reach a deal to increase Hawaii’s minimum wage of $10.10 an hour are being criticized for accepting pay raises for themselves. Hawaii News Now.

Lawmakers achieve mixed results on ethics and election reform. Hawaii’s 2019 legislative session was set to be a banner year when it came to ushering in campaign finance and election reforms and limiting the influence of money in politics — at least to hear leaders of the House tell it. Star-Advertiser.

State lawmakers wrapped up the 2019 session of the Legislature last week, adjourning after approving bills to decriminalize marijuana, launch new state-funded preschools and switch to mail-in voting for all elections beginning in 2020. Star-Advertiser.

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs Board of Trustees on Thursday cut the $22,200 annual allowance for each trustee by two-thirds and placed other limitations on the funds. Star-Advertiser.

New Federal Rules Block Driver’s Licenses For Micronesians In Hawaii. State officials say new federal guidelines prohibit many Pacific Islanders from getting licenses and state IDs that comply with the REAL ID Act. Civil Beat.

Andy Winer, Longtime Schatz Chief Of Staff, Is Leaving. He plans to work as a consultant in the private sector. Civil Beat.

Commentary: The Legislature Really Blew It This Year. The people of Hawaii got lip service this session when it came to helping them in their time of need. Civil Beat.

Commentary: Mazie Hirono’s rancorous attacks play into Trump game plan. There’s a wise adage warning against wrestling with pigs: You just both end up covered in mud, and he loves it. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu Council Set To Elect Ikaika Anderson Chair. Ann Kobayashi will be vice chair and Carol Fukunaga floor leader. Civil Beat.

Ozawa Won't Challenge City Council Special Election Results. Hawaii Public Radio.

Final State Audit On Rail Finds Overpayments To Contractors, Billing Issues. The audit relied on a small sample of invoices so it’s not clear whether those billing problems within HART extend to other rail contracts, the state auditor said. Civil Beat.

'Mighty Mo's' repairs continue as the 75th anniversary of the end of WWII nears. A chunk of the battleship USS Missouri’s superstructure is under wraps again as part of a $3 million restoration — the latest as the famous memorial continues its never-ending battle against rust, but more particularly, as the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II looms next year. Star-Advertiser.

Caldwell Refuses To Halt Construction At Waimanalo Beach. Hundreds of local residents are opposing the city’s plan to build a ball field complex at well-loved Sherwood Forest beach park. Civil Beat.

After layoffs, hotel workers wonder what's next for hospitality industry. The Modern Honolulu laid off about 30% of its workers last week after a timeshare company bought the hotel in April 2018. Now, tourism figures show timeshares and vacation rentals are on the rise statewide. KHON2.

Waianae farm steps up growth of produce and college grads. MA'O Organic Farms, which started in 2001 with 5 acres and today covers 45 acres, recently bought 236 acres in the valley that could make the unique enterprise Hawaii’s largest organic farm. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Kim budget expands to 93 new employees. Proposed $583.9M budget is 12.7% higher than this year. West Hawaii Today.

As officials work on a recovery plan, residents lament lack of access to homes, property. Hawaii County officials are targeting the end of the year for developing a proposed recovery plan for lower Puna. Tribune-Herald.

County wants critical look at 1992 landfill contract. In 1992, the county inked a generous, endless contract with Waste Management Inc. to create and operate a landfill at Puuanahulu. Then the courts gave the private garbage giant a little more. West Hawaii Today.

Coast Guard proposal would prohibit persons, vessels from Ironman swim course. A proposal to prohibit vessels and persons from encroaching on participants taking part in Ironman World Championship-related swim events within Kailua Bay is being floated by the U.S. Coast Guard. West Hawaii Today.

The Windward Planning Commission voted on Thursday to give a positive recommendation to an application for a development between Clem Akina Park and Dodo Mortuary in the Puueo section of Hilo. Big Island Video News.

Residents propose county buy Kona Vistas subdivision parcel. A group of residents opposing plans for a 450-unit development next to their neighborhoods is asking a county commission to propose the county buy the property to stop the development and instead preserve the area for the public. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Committee Approves Emergency Housing at Old UH Maui College Dorm. The measure recommended for passage on first reading by the County Council would authorize the mayor to enter into an intergovernmental agreement with the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corp. for the construction of emergency housing at the former dormitory site. Maui Now.

25 years hence, recovery work continues on the island of Kahoolawe. In ancient times, the 45-square-mile island was a place where navigators learned to find their way across the Pacific. Anniversary of sign-over ceremony is a time for reflection and vision. Maui News.

Kauai

County nearing contract to track illegal vacation rentals. Even with the announcement Wednesday the county of Kauai will allow legal transient vacation rentals in the Lumahai, Wainiha and Haena area, the county has yet to implement new software that will be used to track illegal TVRs, something Planning Director Kaaina Hull has been tasked with spearheading. Garden Island.

Statues of Hawaii king and queen to reign in front of museum. Statues of past island royalty will soon begin their reign in front of a Hawaii museum. Associated Press.

Preserving plants and animals. Plants and forest birds aren’t the only endangered animals on Kauai — Hawaiian monk seals, green sea turtles, Newell’s shearwaters, and the nene goose are all on the list as well. Garden Island.

Kahoolawe

25 years hence, recovery work continues on the island of Kahoolawe. In ancient times, the 45-square-mile island was a place where navigators learned to find their way across the Pacific. Anniversary of sign-over ceremony is a time for reflection and vision. Maui News.

Super Golden Week, Southwest ticket sales are encouraging signs for Hawaii tourism, Honolulu, Hawaii county mayors up budgets, aquarium industry scrutinized, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki tourism fun ©2019 All Hawaii News

Major tour companies and legacy air carriers for Hawaii’s Japan tourism market are reporting double-digit gains for this year’s “Super Golden Week,” a 10-day period of consecutive national holidays. Star-Advertiser.

After much anticipation, Southwest begins selling tickets for Hawaii flights. The low-cost carrier on Monday began selling tickets for Hawaii flights, with first flights — between Oakland and Honolulu — on March 17. Hawaii News Now.

Here’s What’s Not Passing The Hawaii Legislature This Year. On Tuesday the Hawaii Legislature is set to act on hundreds of bills as lawmakers near the halfway mark of the 2019 session. Civil Beat.

Gut And Replace Resurfaces At Hawaii Legislature. The Senate Ways and Means Committee altered the contents of several bills with little public notice, including one that would raise taxes and another that affects Big Island disaster relief. Civil Beat.

The state Senate Ways and Means Committee gutted and replaced at least two bills on Friday, including one affecting disaster relief for Hawaii County and another relating to a helicopter tax credit. Tribune-Herald.

A bill that would shine a brighter light on county police misconduct across the state is making its way through the state Legislature. House Bill 285, if enacted into law, would require Hawaii’s four county police chiefs to disclose in annual reports to the state Legislature the identity of an officer upon an officer’s suspension or discharge from a county police department. Tribune-Herald.

A bill passing through the state Legislature may spell the end for plastic bottles, styrofoam food containers and more across the state. Senate Bill 522 sets a lofty goal to ban the sale, use or distribution of plastic beverage bottles, utensils, stirring sticks, straws and polystyrene foam containers anywhere in the state by 2023. Tribune-Herald.

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Timeline of the battle over Hawaii reef fish. Environmental and industry advocates have been battling for years over whether the state should end the commercial collection of aquarium fish from Hawaii reefs. The fight led to a court decision that banned the use of fine-mesh nets — the main tool of fish collectors — until an environmental review is completed. Star-Advertiser.

Yellow tang project holds promise for Hawaii’s popular, iconic fish. Star-Advertiser.

The way fish are handled stirs debate in aquarium trade. The belief by some that fish do experience pain contributes to the debate over whether the state should end Hawaii’s aquarium trade. Star-Advertiser.

Fishing village wants more DLNR enforcement on aquarium trade. Star-Advertiser.

Aquarium trade still triggers fierce debate, even dividing a fishing village. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Higher tax rates are in store for owners of Oahu resort/hotel and higher-end resident “investment” properties, but the tax rate would stay the same for those who live in their own home, according to the budget plan for the coming fiscal year unveiled Friday by Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell rolled out his $2.83-billion operating budget proposal today for Fiscal Year 2020, which begins July 1st.  He said real property and motor vehicle taxes are expected to bring in 120-million more but other taxes must go up to fund his spending plan. Hawaii Public Radio.

If you own a hotel, an investment home or a trash can, the mayor wants to charge you more. Hawaii News Now.

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Losing A Beachfront Home Isn’t Just A Rich Person’s Problem. As the sea level rise exacerbates coastal erosion, many longtime middle-class residents are struggling to protect their properties. Civil Beat.

A Palolo hillside neighborhood is shifting, leading to structural problems. Some residents say the only thing they can do is evacuate once their homes fall apart, even after continuous complaints to the city. KITV.

‘Deplorable’ hotel puts leasehold in jeopardy. Run-down. Terrible. Total dump. Those are guest descriptions of the Hawaiian Ebbtide Hotel.  Star-Advertiser.

A state lawmaker says he's had questions about the Public Safety Department's policies even before the recent fatal shootings by state sheriffs, that includes the OCCC inmate shot and killed after escaping Friday. KHON2.

Judge seeks more information on Kealoha’s cancer claim, trial delay request. Federal Judge John Michael Seabright will decide if the trial should be pushed back. On Friday, he said he’d need more information on Kealoha’s health and has set a hearing for Monday so Kealoha’s doctor can elaborate. Hawaii News Now.

Katherine Kealoha Says She Needs Cancer Treatment, Wants Trial Delayed. The defense lawyer for the former city prosecutor says in new court filings that Kealoha must seek immediate treatment. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Kim proposes 10.7% budget hike, 35 new police positions. Thirty-five new police personnel, including 10 officers each for Ka‘u and Puna, nine new sergeants and six dispatchers, along with body cameras and computer upgrades, play center stage in a $573.5 million budget proposed Friday by Mayor Harry Kim. West Hawaii Today.

Mayor Harry Kim has submitted the first draft of his proposed operating budget for Fiscal Year 2019-20, proposing a 10.7 percent increase compared to last year. Big Island Video News.

Council pushes open Sunshine Law with secret budget meeting, discussions off agenda. A behind-the-scenes workshop and attempts to get commitments from colleagues on an item not on the agenda are two ways the County Council pushed the limits of the state Sunshine Law in recent weeks, as an especially tight county budget hangs in the balance. West Hawaii Today.

Proposed rules for vacation rentals received a frosty reception Friday evening during a public hearing in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

Testifiers Speak Out On Short Term Vacation Rental Rules. Big Island Video News.

Bill would give BI second water specialist. Water quality monitoring on Hawaii Island will get a boost under a bill that passed the state House of Representatives on Thursday. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The County Council member who upset former Mayor Alan Arakawa in the bid for the Kahului residency seat is proving just as unpredictable in her new job. Freshman Council Member Tasha Kam has emerged as the swing vote in the first major test the new council has faced this term — the vetting of Mayor Michael Victorino’s 11 director nominees. Maui News.

Six Historic Bridges on Hana Highway Identified as High Priority. The Department of Transportation, in partnership with the Federal Highway Administration, holds the first in a series of public meetings to discuss a project to improve six of the historic bridges along the Hana Highway (Route 360) located between Huelo and Hana town in east Maui. Maui Now.

MECO says customers will not pay for unused power from solar farms. Credits from construction delays will offset costs in 2018. Maui News.

Maui Electric Co. produced 38 percent of power used in 2018 through renewable sources, up from 34 percent in 2017, the utility’s parent company, Hawaiian Electric Cos., said Tuesday. Maui News.

Kauai

Hope for endangered seabirds. During the four-day annual meeting of the Pacific Seabird Group last week at the Aqua Kauai Beach Hotel near Lihue, 10 researchers detailed the results of programs aimed at reducing the deaths of endangered and threatened native Hawaiian seabirds. Garden Island.

Ha Coffee Bar is hosting a climate-change conversation 5:30 to 7 p.m. Thursday, featuring Victoria Keener speaking on how Kauai is adapting to predicted impacts of climate change. Garden Island.

Hawaii losing one of its two dairy farms, Caldwell vetoes condo bill, hotel occupancy down, Big Island vacation rental bill passes, Maui affordable housing breaks ground, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Big Island Dairy, Facebook page photo

Big Island Dairy owners confirmed Tuesday that they will discontinue dairy and milk processing operations at the Ookala facility for financial reasons. Tribune-Herald.

One of two of the state's only dairies is closing. Big Island Dairy has announced it's ending operations in February next year. KHON2.

Embattled Big Island Dairy Farm Plans To Shut Down. A lawsuit filed last year alleged repeated spills and runoff of cattle manure, cattle urine and other waste from Big Island Dairy violated federal laws. Civil Beat.

Big Island Dairy will discontinue its operation of raw milk production and milk processing operations at its farm on the Hamakua Coast. Big Island Video News.

Embattled Big Island dairy farm plans to cease operations, lay off employees. An embattled Big Island dairy farm plans to cease operations in the new year and lay off its 24 employees. Hawaii News Now.

Those concerned about opening a dairy in the Mahaulepu valley started celebrating Tuesday after Big Island Dairy owners announced they’ll be shutting down operations on Hawaii Island. Garden Island.

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Occupancy rates at Hawaii hotels decline. According to the Hawaii Tourism Authority on average hotels statewide reported decreased occupancy in October compared to the year before. KHON2.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority said Tuesday that hotels statewide had a drop in occupancy last month, the fifth month in a row of declines. Occupancy fell to 76.4 percent, a drop of 2.4 percentage points from October 2017. Star-Advertiser.

Sex-Sting Vigilantes Are Trying to Bust ‘Predators’ In Hawaii. But concerns are being raised by police and others about the type of tactics used by groups like Hawaii Predator Hunters Facebook Group. Civil Beat.

Despite reports of a Christmas tree shortage on the mainland, it appears Hawaii will see plenty of trees this year. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii will receive more than $400,000 in federal funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to curb harmful pollution from diesel vehicles in the state. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Mayor cites safety in condo bill veto. Mayor Kirk Caldwell on Tuesday vetoed a bill that would have provided condo owners an extra two years to comply with requirements of a fire safety law enacted in the wake of the fatal Marco Polo fire in 2017. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor vetoes fire sprinkler bill 'for the safety of our citizens'. The new bill requires high-rises to do a sprinkler system evaluation within five years instead of three, and then be fitted with sprinklers within eight years instead of six. KHON2.

Honolulu Mayor vetoes bill offering fire safety evaluation extension. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell vetoed a bill that would have extended the deadline for high rises to get a fire safety inspection. KITV.

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Native Hawaiians claim voter suppression at Leeward Oahu polling sites during general election. After a massive effort by several Native Hawaiian organizations to get out the vote for the general election, advocates are accusing state elections officials of stymieing their efforts. Hawaii News Now.

Councilman Ikaika Anderson raised eyebrows — but received no official admonishment — for using lewd descriptions at a recent council meeting to criticize a lack of action on homelessness. Hawaii News Now.

The driver of the trolley that struck and killed an elderly pedestrian in Kakaako on Thursday had a blood alcohol concentration of more than twice the legal threshold for drunken driving, according to Honolulu police reports. Star-Advertiser.

Local Christmas Tree Farm Prepares For The Season. If it’s anything the Christmas holiday season teaches us, its patience! Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

After two years, seven bill drafts and a lot of community input, Hawaii County will soon join the other three counties regulating short-term vacation rentals. The County Council on Tuesday passed Bill 108 on a 6-1 vote, setting in motion the next step in the process: formulation of rules by the county Planning Department. West Hawaii Today.

Mayor Kim to undergo surgery Friday. Hawaii County Mayor Harry Kim will undergo surgery on Friday at Straub Medical Center in Honolulu to clear a blockage in an artery in his lower extremities, his office said today in a written statement. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County Mayor Harry Kim will undergo surgery on Friday, but that didn’t stop him from testifying in Hilo today. Big Island Video News.

Mayor Harry Kim to undergo surgery to clear blockage in artery. KHON2.

County to get $10 million for lava recovery. Hawaii County will receive a $10 million grant from the state to help it kick-start recovery efforts in Puna following the Kilauea eruption. Tribune-Herald.

Telescope Foes Ask Hawaii High Court To Reconsider Ruling. Opponents want the Hawaii Supreme Court to reverse an earlier 4-1 vote clearing the way for the $1.4 billion Mauna Kea project. Associated Press.

Big Island bees stung by natural disasters. Natural disasters stung Big Island bee colonies and harmed honey production and hives. KITV.

Maui

Maui’s Newest Affordable Housing Complex Breaks Ground. Catholic Charities Housing Development Corporation broke ground this morning on the first phase of Kahului Lani, a senior affordable rental housing development bordered by Kane, Vevau and School streets in Kahului. Maui Now.

Maui County Prosecutor John D. Kim announced the death of deputy prosecuting attorney Richard Minatoya on Sunday. Maui News.

Kahului 2070: Maui's Metropolitan/TOD Plan. Kahului 2070 is Maui County’s long-range concept plan for transit oriented development. Hawaii Public Radio.

School has been in session here for months at the Hanalei Colony Resort, where hotel rooms serve as classrooms for about two dozen students. But the satellite campus could close down come next month. KITV.

The second Maui Cannabis Conference will be held Jan. 5 and 6 at the Royal Lahaina Resort. Maui News.

Kauai

On A Now Empty Beach, Signs Of Nature’s Comeback. Kee Beach, once nearly loved to death by tourists, is now a place of solitude after last spring’s punishing storms cut it off from the rest of the island. Civil Beat.

Contrary to the recommendations by health officials, Earl Kashiwagi of Esaki’s Produce said the romaine lettuce being brought in by the biggest produce wholesaler on the island is pretty safe to eat. Garden Island.

Kauai a leader in hotel report. Hawaii hotels statewide reported no growth in revenue per available room (RevPAR), modest growth in average daily rate (ADR) and decreased occupancy in October. Garden Island.

Cat 4 Hurricane Lane about 200 miles from Hawaiian Islands, Trump issues presidential disaster declaration, emergency shelters open, FEMA arrives, seaports close, here's what you need to know to stay safe

Hurricane Lane track 5 a.m. Thursday Central Pacific Hurricane Center

Hurricane Lane continued to weaken slightly overnight but is still moving closer to the islands. Clocking in with maximum sustained winds of 130 mph and moving northwest at 7 mph, Lane was located about 210 miles south-southwest of Kailua-Kona and 305 miles south of Honolulu at 5 a.m., according to the Central Pacific Hurricane Center. Star-Advertiser.

Heavy rains pound Big Island as Cat 4 Lane barrels toward Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

Trump issues presidential disaster declaration as Lane marches toward Hawaii. Hawaii leaders are ramping up preparations for Hurricane Lane as the ferocious Category 4 storm continues to march toward the island chain. Hawaii News Now.

Islands remain vulnerable as category 4 Hurricane Lane continues to move northwest. KITV.

Hurricane Closes Hawaii’s Harbors, Freezing A Fragile Supply Chain. If Hurricane Lane strikes Oahu, officials say they have a plan in place to clear roads for emergency access as soon possible. Civil Beat.

Depending on hurricane track and scope of damage, Hawaiian Electric says customers should anticipate power outages from Hurricane Lane. KHON2.

Unplugged. That will likely become reality for many in Hawaii as Hurricane Lane triggers power outages, the Hawaiian Electric companies warned Wednesday as they urged customers to prepare. Star-Advertiser.

Power outage tips: Keep your refrigerator closed, unplug other appliances. Hawaii News Now.

FEMA workers arrive in Hawaii; airports remain open. About 150 FEMA workers are spread out across the state to help out with Hurricane Lane. Hawaii News Now.

Here’s a list of Hurricane Lane emergency shelters. Star-Advertiser.

Forecasting Hurricanes In The ‘Cone Of Uncertainty’ Is A Rough Challenge. Meteorologists get plenty of data to predict a storm’s path, but even minor fluctuations in models can mean a world of difference. Civil Beat.

Category strengths of a hurricane and wind shear ... How do they relate? Hawaii News Now.

Hurricane Lane impacts U.S. Postal Service operations, mail delivery. KHON2.

State investigating reports of price gouging as Hurricane Lane nears. KHON2.

Insurance commissioner authorizes assistance of unlicensed adjusters due to Hurricane Lane. Pacific Business News.

Real estate contributes to Hawaii's empty shelves as hurricane approaches. The empty supermarket shelves Hawaii residents are finding this week as they try to prepare for Hurricane Lane are a byproduct of the cost of shipping and industrial real estate in the Islands. Pacific Business News.

Storm likely to further curb September hotel performance. Star-Advertiser.

Ige Relaxes Rabies Rules for Hawaii-Bound Pets. Owners will be allowed to bring their dogs and cats to the islands 30 days after completing tests and vaccines, instead of 120 days. Civil Beat.

State's Plans To Deal With Abandoned and Derelict Cars. The problem of abandoned and derelict vehicle varies from island to island. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Mayor says slow-moving storm could cause major problems. Mayor Kirk Caldwell, flanked by first responders, urged Oahu residents to prepare for the coming of Hurricane Lane and to shelter in place. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Designates 20 Schools As Hurricane Shelters. The shelters — to be used as a last resort — have a total capacity of 55,000, according to city officials. Civil Beat.

Pearl Harbor ships and subs head to sea ahead of Lane. Navy ships and submarines based in Hawaii — excluding those undergoing maintenance — began an exodus from Pearl Harbor Wednesday as Hurricane Lane, still packing 145 mph winds, swirled ever closer to the state. Star-Advertiser.

Last-minute shopping a challenge. Don Quijote was one of the stores that had sold out of water, butane and flashlights, but were expecting an emergency shipment Wednesday night of additional pallets of water and butane. Star-Advertiser.

Visitors to Oahu brace for Hurricane Lane, tourism impacted. Gusts of wind blew through Daniel K. Inouye International Airport Wednesday as travelers braced for the unknown. KHON2.

Hundreds of residents on Hawaiian Homelands are without phone and internet service as Hurricane Lane threatens the state. KHON2.

Honolulu police officers, state officials and outreach workers canvassed various communities on Wednesday to warn Oahu’s homeless population about Hurricane Lane and urge them to seek shelter. Hawaii News Now.

Art Ushijima, president and CEO of The Queen’s Health Systems, said Wednesday he will retire in January 2020 after nearly 30 years on the job. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Bracing for Lane: County, state prepare as significant rain, flooding and high winds are expected from hurricane. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County Mayor Harry Kim stressed Wednesday that West Hawaii residents need to remain vigilant as Hurricane Lane remained on course to pass very close to the Hawaiian Islands. West Hawaii Today.

Storm-tested East Hawaii residents take Lane in stride. Despite the approach of Hurricane Lane, residents on the east side of the Big Island were largely unperturbed Wednesday. Tribune-Herald.

No panic in Kailua-Kona as residents prep for hurricane. West Hawaii Today.

Disaster-Weary Big Island Braces For Lane’s First Effects. South- and west-facing coastal areas are considered at greatest risk in Hawaii County. Civil Beat.

Hawaii County won’t even begin collecting its share of the general excise tax for more than four months, but there’s already disagreement over how to spend it. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa hosted a press conference on Wednesday afternoon ahead of Hurricane Lane as it continues its approach up the island chain. Maui Now.

Maui County officials are preparing for the worst that Hurricane Lane might bring — and are bracing for a long recovery. Hawaii News Now.

Maui County residents, tourists and businesses are preparing for Hurricane Lane and the possibility of stores running out of supplies due to the anticipated closure of all ports statewide when the storm hits. Maui News.

Maui visitors deal differently with approaching storm. Star-Advertiser.

Feels Like Hana Of Old After Hurricane Threat Chases Tourists Away. The iconic but usually congested Hana Highway is quiet as confident residents get ready to hunker down. Civil Beat.

C-SPAN bus visits Maui with Lane looming. Mobile TV studio parked at county building, mall. Maui News.

Kauai

In this together. Stores like Times, Costco, The Home Depot and Longs weren’t quite as busy Wednesday, but residents and visitors alike were stocking up on essentials before the possibility of Hurricane Lane wreaking havoc on Kauai. Garden Island.

Wainiha-Haena residents are being advised to evacuate the area today due to the possibility of tropical storm force winds and heavy rains. Garden Island.

Water diversion plan contested. A move to amend the Interim Inflow Stream Standard for the Waikoko and North Fork Wailua streams by State of Hawaii Commission on Water Resources Management Tuesday has been delayed due to a request for a contested-case hearing filed by Kauai Island Utility Cooperative. Garden Island.

Gubernatorial race heats up as early voting starts today, RIMPAC goes public with attack demo, Big Island hotels feel the hit from volcano crisis, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Voting in Hawaii ©2018 All Hawaii News

Starting July 30 through August 9, registered voters can go to any early walk in voting location within their county to cast their ballot for the August 11 primary election. KHON2.

You wouldn’t know it from the deluge of political advertising in the final weeks of the Democratic primary, but Gov. David Ige and U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa have strikingly similar views on many of Hawaii’s hot-button issues. Star-Advertiser.

Money in politics: Gov. David Ige and his primary Democratic challenger, U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa, are evenly dividing the state’s ZIP codes and major islands when it comes to who’s sending them checks. West Hawaii Today.

Hanabusa, Ige continue to capture support prior to primary election. Hawaii News Now.

Commentary: Did David Ige Tell Colleen Hanabusa To ‘Sit Down And Shut Up’? Hanabusa supporters are blasting the governor for challenging Hanabusa’s repeated criticism of him, saying it’s really a dis on women. Civil Beat.

Endorsement: Colleen Hanabusa is the best choice to lead Hawaii for the next four years. Star-Advertiser.

Green plays valid role in homeless center. As pressure mounts in the race to be Hawaii’s next lieutenant governor, Democratic primary contenders have set their sights on the front-runner’s claims that he started a homeless center and raised millions for a new model of health care for the homeless. Star-Advertiser.

State pilot program saves 1M sheets of paper in just 6 months. From January to June of this year, nine state departments participated in the program launched by the Office of Enterprise Technology Services and reduced 20 percent of paper usage by transitioning from printed documents to electronic reports. Hawaii News Now.

The state says a six-month paper reduction program piloted by the Office of Enterprise Technology Services (ETS) has reduced paper use by 20 percent, which translates to a savings of one million sheets of printed paper. KITV.

RIMPAC 2018 features amphibious attack demonstration. So far, RIMPAC 2018 has held 25 exercises. Sunday's 26th exercise involved an amphibious assault, landing forces on a potentially hostile shore. KHON2.

RIMPAC: Sea-to-shore show of force. It was the culminating event for U.S. Marines participating in the 26th Rim of the Pacific exercise, which ends Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

After years of advocacy, some 17,500 square miles of ocean around the main Hawaiian isles will be designated as protected critical habitat for Hawaii’s endangered false killer whales. Star-Advertiser.

According to the AARP of Hawaii, Medicare contributes $2.4 billion to Hawaii’s economy, equivalent to 15% of state and local government spending in the state. Big Island Now.

A new study by AARP found that Medicare contributes $2.4 billion to Hawaii’s economy, equivalent to 15 percent of state and local government spending in the state. Pacific Business News.

If You’re Poor In Hawaii, A Visit To The Dentist Is A Luxury. With no state funding for adult dental care, thousands of people go to emergency rooms seeking relief from cavities and other problems. Civil Beat.

Hotel industry sees midyear gains. In the first half of this year, Hawaii’s hotel industry had the highest revenue per available room, or RevPAR, and highest average daily rate, or ADR, among its competitors in top U.S. markets. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

This Ewa Senate Race Between A Lobbyist And A Lawmaker Is Getting Hot. Rep. Matt LoPresti says Senate President Ron Kouchi is distorting the facts to help lobbyist Alicia Maluafiti win the election. Civil Beat.

Councilman is accused of harassing aide who helped rival. Councilman Ikaika Anderson alleged Councilman Trevor Ozawa harassed his staff aide for sign-waving in support of one of Ozawa’s opponents in the Aug. 11 primary election. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell uses public safety to justify obstruction bills. Using a row of lean-tos on River Street in Chinatown as a backdrop, Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell scolded two Honolulu City Council members Saturday for shelving two bills he said would get more homeless people off city sidewalks. Star-Advertiser.

Thomas Square reopens in Honolulu with a special celebration. Hawaii News Now.

La Hoihoi Ea: The Annual Celebration of Hawaiian Restoration drew hundreds for a day of education, cultural sharing, community networking and free music. KITV.

New rules affecting ocean and surfing events on Oahu will go into effect on Monday. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Ige’s New Campaign Ad Features Endorsement From Mayor Kim. Governor David Ige has just unveiled a campaign advertisement featuring a Hawaii Island leader whose opinion carries a lot of weight on the Big Island. Big Island Video News.

Manipol-Larson faces white nationalist in GOP primary. It might be unusual to see more than one Republican on the primary ballot for a seat like state House District 2, which sits in heavily Democratic Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

Big Island hotels see drop in RevPAR due to ongoing volcanic activity. Big Island hotels were the only ones to report a drop in RevPAR in June, falling 8.3 percent to $163.91, ADR also declined, down 0.3 percent to $239. Occupancy was down 6 percentage points to 68.6 percent. Pacific Business News.

More than 60 acres of macadamia trees in Puna have been overrun by lava or, by being in the evacuation zone, are vulnerable to theft by humans and wild pigs. Hawaii News Now.

Latest lava flow could set new record. Sunday marks 87 days since the first eruption inside Leilani Estates. KITV.

A proposal for a lava viewing area in the Noni Farms area of Puna has been shared with the County administration, but a decision has yet to be made. Big Island Video News.

Evacuees, volunteers reflect on shelter experience after nearly three months. Tribune-Herald.

Volunteers continue restoration at anchialine pools. Tribune-Herald.

Commentary: Editor responds to election section criticism. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Familiar faces to Maui politics are vying for former House Speaker Joe Souki’s House District 8 seat in a four-way, winner-take-all contest in the Aug. 11 Democratic primary. Maui News.

Early walk-in voting begins Monday at a new location on Maui — the Velma McWayne Santos Community Center in Wailuku, the Office of the County Clerk announced. Maui News.

Tour Bus Overturns on Hana Hwy, 3 Transported to Hospital. Maui Now.

West Maui Beach Access Group Sues Condo Over Shoreline Construction. Maui Now.

Program to provide free medical, dental, vision care in August. Tropic Care is a military readiness training program. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai access placards to be swapped for decals. Residents and nongovernmental agencies seeking access into the Wainiha- Haena area will be required to exchange placards previously required for entry for window decals. Star-Advertiser.

Wetlands created. More than 100 new trees and shrubs are now at home at the Makauwahi Cave Reserve on Kauai’s South Shore, many of them planted in five new wetlands that have recently been completed. Garden Island.

The first installment of real property taxes on Kauai for the 2018-2019 tax year is due Aug. 20. Garden Island.

Active Kilauea volcano puts on a show, state and local lawmakers react to ongoing lava crisis; Mayor Kim hospitalized with 6th heart attack; feral cat feces killing monk seals; Kauai group fights RIMPAC, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

More Kilauea volcano fissures become active. Star-Advertiser.

While fissure 8 continues to steadily produce lava from Kilauea volcano, three other fissures are displaying weak signs of activity. Tribune-Herald.

Scientists monitoring renewed fissure activity. Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists say while the continually fountaining vent known as Fissure 8 continues to be very active with channelized flow entering the ocean at Kapoho Bay, lava is now oozing from three other fissures that are being monitored and described as “weakly active.” Star-Advertiser.

Scientists answered questions about the ongoing slumping at the summit of Kilauea volcano, as well as the size of the growing lava delta at Kapoho, during a media conference call Monday. Big Island Video News.

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Legislature keeps grip on Judiciary’s purse strings. Funding rejections have fueled speculation that legislators are still smarting over court decisions that some believe have undermined the separation of powers between the legislative and judicial branches of government. Star-Advertiser.

State speeds up hiring process for much-needed social worker positions in new pilot program. The state's Child Welfare Services branch has struggled to fill 46 vacant spots. KHON2.

Ad Watch: Ige And Hanabusa On What Makes Them Different. The incumbent Hawaii governor boasts of delivering on a promise to put AC in classrooms, while the challenger touts her leadership chops. Civil Beat.

Gov. David Ige announced that he has signed a second supplementary proclamation for Kauai County and the City and County of Honolulu, which suffered heavy losses and damage during severe rain and flooding in April. Big Island Now.

HCF awards $1.5 million to career program. The Hawaii Community Foundation’s Career Connected Learning grants aim to prepare Hawaii’s students for the workforce of the future. Garden Island.

Hawaiian Telcom has informed its shareholders that the company’s $650 million sale to Cincinnati Bell could be completed as early as Saturday. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Military eyes sites on Oahu for high-powered radar to defend against missile threats. Hawaii News Now.

The city’s first homeless “navigation center” has taken in 616 people from the streets in three years of operation on Sand Island, and the state Board of Land and Natural Resources has extended a sweetheart lease of $1 a year for another four years, Gov. David Ige and Mayor Kirk Caldwell announced Monday. Star-Advertiser.

Is Honolulu Hale Making City Staffers Sick? City Council Chairman Ernie Martin thinks so — and wants to relocate the legislative branch out of the 90-year-old building. Civil Beat.

Greater protections, more funding sought for Honouliuli Internment Camp site. A bill before Congress would designate Honouliuli Internment Camp on Oahu a national historic site, giving it greater protections — and funding. Hawaii News Now.

UH-West Oahu students unearth history at Honouliuli. Star-Advertiser.

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A disease spread by cat feces killed three female Hawaiian monk seals on Oahu in May, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration announced Monday. Star-Advertiser.

Monk seal monitors are keeping a sharp eye on The Garden Island’s Hawaiian monk seal population after scientists confirmed toxoplasmosis as the cause of death for three Oahu seals in early May. Garden Island.

State officials are now blaming toxoplasmosis, a parasite carried in cat feces, for the deaths of three critically endangered Hawaiian monk seals on Oahu. Hawaii News Now.

Three Hawaiian monk seals found dead on Oahu last month were caused by a disease called toxoplasmosis. It's a disease that's spread through cat feces. KHON2.

State doesn't follow through on threats to impound Lanikai boats. The owners of boats and canoes stored on Lanikai Beach got a temporary reprieve Monday. Hawaii News Now.

The Daniel K Inouye International Airport now has free and unlimited wifi, among a host of other digital upgrades, transportation officials announced on Monday. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Mayor Harry Kim has been hospitalized after suffering a heart attack Saturday, his second since April. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County Mayor Harry Kim was resting and recuperating in the hospital today, following another heart attack over the weekend. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii County Council members plan to take up a resolution today urging the state Legislature to convene a special session to address the impacts of the ongoing lava flow in Lower Puna where hundreds of homes, businesses and farms have been destroyed and about 2,000 people have been forced to evacuate. Star-Advertiser.

After hearing pleas from short-term vacation rental operators in Puna and elsewhere asking the county put a vacation rental bill aside until Puna and the county recover from its ongoing lava emergency, the County Council Planning Committee postponed action Monday until July 10. West Hawaii Today.

How And Where Should We Rebuild After Kilauea Eruption? Hawaii Public Radio.

Now that Kilauea Volcano has destroyed hundreds of homes in Puna, some are asking how people were able to purchase and insure homes in such a known high-risk area. Hawaii Public Radio.

Thousands of displaced residents are assessing their next steps as lava is steadily pumping from four fissures in lower Puna where destructive flows have destroyed hundreds of homes. Hawaii News Now.

County Council set to take final vote on tax increase today. West Hawaii Today.

For National Guard, lava disaster presents real-world mission. Star-Advertiser.

Since it opened four days ago, hundreds of lava evacuees have turned to the FEMA Disaster Recovery Center for help. Hawaii News Now.

Big Island farmers brave lava, toxic fumes to harvest crops. Big Island farmers lucky enough to still have viable crops are braving hazardous conditions to harvest what they can. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

A bill aimed at more enforcement of bed-and-breakfast operations got some of its teeth removed Friday when Maui County Council members amended it to give operators a 30-day grace period to renew their county permits. Maui News.

Faith Action for Community Equity (FACE) Maui will host an Affordable Housing Mayoral Forum on June 28, 2018 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Valley Isle Fellowship Church located at 1033 Waiale Road in Wailuku. Maui Now.

Three new physicians are joining Kaiser Permanente on Maui. Maui News.

Maui College Aims for 100% Solar Power. The first container-load of solar panels are set to arrive at the Maui College campus in Kahului later this summer. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai

The world’s largest international maritime exercise is coming back to Hawaii next week, with 26 countries set to participate in the 2018 Rim of the Pacific Exercise. Those who oppose the exercise are gathering to form another iteration of the Oceans4Peace coalition, which works to educate the public on RIMPAC impacts they find concerning. Garden Island.

Why The Beef Industry Is Rapidly Expanding On The Garden Island. The Hawaii market develops a taste for meat born, raised and slaughtered in the islands, and these ranchers are happy to serve it up. Civil Beat.

Hanalei Colony Resort officials announced on Monday that it plans on remaining closed until further notice as Kauai residents continue recovering from historic floods. Hawaii News Now.

Ige pledges $12M in volcano relief, lava tally reaches 600 homes and 2,000 acres as earthquakes, ash plumes, rattle Big Island, unions endorse Ige, Tokuda, Honolulu council squabbles over rail, Kauai seeks temporary housing for flood victims, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

$12M lava bailout agreement signed by Ige, Kim ©2018 All Hawaii News

600 homes confirmed destroyed on Big Island as state pledges new aid. Hawaii News Now.

The state today released $12 million to Hawaii County to support its response to the volcanic eruption in Lower Puna. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. David Ige and Mayor Harry Kim have signed a letter of agreement releasing $12 million in state funds to support the county’s response to the active volcanic eruption occurring on Hawaii Island. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Gov. David Ige and Hawaii County Mayor Harry Kim signed a Letter of Agreement releasing $12 million to support the county’s response to the active volcanic eruption occurring on Hawaii Island, along the East Rift Zone in Lower Puna. Big Island Now.

Prospects for Hawaii island to rebound from the loss of what is now about 600 homes destroyed by lava rose significantly Thursday with a group hug and a $12 million down payment. Star-Advertiser.

The State has pledged to give Hawaii County $12 million to help respond to the lava disaster that's claimed hundreds of homes. KHON2.

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Hirono gets free ride as Dems dominate Hawaii Congress races. U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono appears guaranteed of reelection as not a single opponent capable of mounting a statewide campaign is running against her. Hawaii News Now.

One of Hawaii’s largest labor unions representing blue-collar workers endorsed Gov. David Ige today in this year’s gubernatorial race. The United Public Workers union represents about 14,000 members employed at facilities such as schools, hospitals and correctional facilities throughout the state. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's largest union, the Hawaii Government Employees Association announced its endorsement in the Lt. Governor's race. The HGEA is supporting Senator Jill Tokuda. KITV.

Trump Plan Would Cost Planned Parenthood In Hawaii $830,000. A rule change proposes to halt all federal funding to health care organizations that provide abortions. Civil Beat.

After Sen. Will Espero’s retirement from the Senate effective June 1, 2018, Sen. Kaialii Kahele who previously served as the Senate Majority Whip, will now serve as the new Senate Majority Floor Leader. Big Island Now.

Suicide rates in Hawaii on the rise. In Hawaii, rates went up about 18-percent from 1999 to 2016. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Honolulu City Council Squabbles Over HART Budget, Again. The 2019 construction budget for the Honolulu Rail Transit Project almost got derailed today at the Honolulu City Council. Hawaii Public Radio.

Will Uber threaten to cease operations in Hawaii? The question being discussed by ride share drivers. KHON2.

USS Arizona repairs are complicated, but harbor tours remain. Since May 10 none of the thousands of people who show up daily to see one of the most revered spots in American battle history have been able to disembark on the walkway memorial that straddles the grave for over 900 men who gave their lives on Dec. 7, 1941. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

A 5.2-magnitude earthquake struck near the summit of Kilauea on Friday morning, but there was no tsunami threat, according to the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center. Hawaii News Now.

The Pacific Tsunami Warning System reports a 5.2 magnitude earthquake shook at the summit of Kilauea Friday morning, there is no tsunami threat for Hawaii. KHON2.

Another small explosion occurred early this morning at Kilauea’s summit and generated a moderate ash plume. Star-Advertiser.

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Norwegian Cruise Line announced Thursday that it will resume port calls to Hawaii island — a move state officials said will be a major linchpin in shoring up tourism losses for the hard-hit island. Star-Advertiser.

The Pride of America cruise ship will make her return to Hawaii Island next week, days after it was announced that the island had been removed from the ship’s itinerary. Tribune-Herald.

State elections officials hope to avoid a repeat of 2014, when a natural disaster wreaked havoc on Puna elections and sent a candidate in a tight election to court. West Hawaii Today.

Temporary housing for those displaced by Kilauea volcano will be built later this week, with eligible evacuees to move in soon. Tribune-Herald.

Preliminary ground preparation is underway in Pahoa for a project that will hopefully provide emergency transitional sheltering for some residents impacted by the volcanic eruption. Big Island Video News.

Fissure 8 Continues to be "Very Active". Hawaii Public Radio.

Lava from the Kilauea volcano that flowed into Kapoho Bay has created nearly a mile of new land and officials with the U.S. Geological Survey said today the flow is still very active and there’s no way to know when the eruption will end or if more lava-spewing vents will open. Associated Press.

Lava claims nearly 600 homes in Lower Puna; select curfews lifted for residents. Star-Advertiser.

The Latest: Kilauea Eruption Update. KITV.

Additional loitering citations issued in active eruption zone. Seven more people were cited Wednesday night by officers from the DLNR Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement for loitering in a closed area. KHON2.

Volcanic activity burns biggest economic driver for Big Island. Star-Advertiser.

The traumatic events associated with the new events on Kilauea Volcano have taken an emotional toll, not only on the community directly impacted by the eruption, but on the scientists charged with monitoring the fissures and lava flows, as well. Big Island Video News.

Eruption Threatens Future Of Some Big Island Charter Schools. The ongoing volcanic lava flow is raising many issues for students and their families. Civil Beat.

Color 'em confused: A guide to accessing and understanding air quality reports online. West Hawaii Today.

'Pele's Path: The People of Puna,' an HNN digital documentary. Hawaii News Now.

Amid ongoing explosive eruptions at Kilauea's summit, new images show the incredible extent of damage at the former Halemaumau Crater overlook. Hawaii News Now.

Kim’s budget it is: Council fails to approve amended version. West Hawaii Today.

Monty Richards, a fifth-generation kamaaina and guiding force of Kahua Ranch who was known for his leadership in the community, died Monday in San Francisco. He was 88. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Debate gets heated over managing director amendment. Maui County Council Member Elle Cochran pressed for answers Wednesday about the extent to which county directors, including Managing Director Keith Regan, contributed money to Mayor Alan Arakawa’s campaign. Maui News.

An informational meeting Wednesday night helped quell some fears from West Maui residents and farmers worried about losing water to new in-stream flow standards set earlier this year for four West Maui streams. Maui News.

Maui Aquatics Facilities Master Plan Recommendations to be Unveiled. Maui Now.

Fair officials seek relief from high shipping costs. Event scheduled for Oct. 4 to 7; entertainment contract still not inked. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai County officials looking for temporary housing for flood victims. Almost two months after the historic flooding disaster, Kauai County officials estimate as many as 50 residents are still displaced from their homes. Hawaii News Now.

The Hanalei Dolphin is expected to reopen on July 16 following a three-month closure. Pacific Business News.

Eighty bicycles were given away in celebration of Wilcox Health Center’s 80th anniversary during the annual Kids Summer Fest at the Kauai Marriott Resort &Beach Club. Garden Island.