Showing posts with label Peter Boy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Peter Boy. Show all posts

Friday, December 27, 2019

Two-month truce on Mauna Kea, tour helicopter missing off Kauai, new Oahu vacation rental form spurs more complaints, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2019 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Mauna Kea scene showing road-blocking tent in July, 2019. ©2019 All Hawaii News
Officials reach a truce with Mauna Kea protesters. Hawaii County Mayor Harry Kim has struck a deal with the protesters on Mauna Kea, with Kim pledging there will be no construction activity by the Thirty Meter Telescope on Mauna Kea and no police action to clear out the protesters during January and February provided the protesters move off Mauna Kea Access Road. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii County, TMT Protesters Agree To Clear The Road To Mauna Kea. Activists will move their encampment off the mountain’s access road in exchange for a county promise not to start more work on the telescope until February. Civil Beat.

Protesters, Kim reach agreement to reopen Maunakea Access Road. For the first time since July, demonstrators opposing the construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope will vacate the Maunakea Access Road, thanks to an agreement with Mayor Harry Kim. Tribune-Herald.

Mauna Kea Summit Road Closed Ahead Of Clearing It To Open Access. Hawaii County is temporarily closing the Mauna Kea Access Road on Hawaii Island until Saturday as the road is cleared and made completely accessible to the public, Mayor Harry Kim announced Thursday. Hawaii Public Radio.

TMT opponents are declaring Thursday's agreement a victory. Thirty Meter Telescope opponents have agreed to move the kupuna tent to the side and allow full public access on the Mauna Kea Access Road, at least for the next two months, as the planned observatory project has no immediate plans to start construction on the mountain. Big Island Video News.

In major deal, TMT protesters agree to temporarily clear Mauna Kea Access Road. Thirty Meter Telescope protesters say they’ve agreed to move their “kupuna tent” from Mauna Kea Access Road until February under a deal with Hawaii County. But they stressed they’re not leaving their encampment ― or the mountain. Hawaii News Now.

Under agreement with protectors, Mayor Kim announces temporary closure of Maunakea Access Road. Mayor Harry Kim announced on Thursday that the Maunakea Access Road is temporarily closed to the public as the road is being cleared to make it completely accessible to the public. KHON2.

Kia‘i to Move off Road, Remain on Maunakea. Kia‘i, or the self-dubbed protectors of Maunakea, on Thursday responded to an offer from Hawai‘i County Mayor Harry Kim proposing both sides of the Thirty Meter Telescope dispute stand down through the end of February. Big Island Now.

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Hawaii Doctor Shortage Persists But More Training Programs Could Help. Hawaii is gaining doctors, but not enough to keep up with the patient demand, according to a University of Hawaii report on the state’s continuing physician shortage. Hawaii Public Radio.

New Bill Aims to Require Invasive Species Screenings For All Hawaiʻi-Bound Cargo, Baggage. Congressman Ed Case (HI-01) recently introduced a bill to require that all baggage and cargo transporting into Hawai’i by air or sea be inspected for invasive species and high-risk agricultural materials. Maui Now.

Hawaii is almost certain to pass the 10M visitors mark by the end of 2019. The number of visitors to Hawaii grew 4% in November compared to the year before. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

City Gets 40 Complaints On Possible Illegal Rentals As Online Tip Form Launches. Honolulu officials have received 40 complaints of suspected illegal short-term rentals this week, most of them in Kailua. Hawaii Public Radio.

City Launches Online Short-Term Rental Complaint Form. It was mandated by a new law that Honolulu officials expect will increase violation notices. Civil Beat.

With over 17K firecracker permits sold on Oahu, HFD reminds public of laws and safety on New Year’s Eve. Sales of firecrackers on Oahu began Thursday and so far 17,804 firecracker permits have been issued, according to the Honolulu Fire Department. Star-Advertiser.

The Future Of Koko Crater Stables Remains In Limbo. It’s still not clear who will run the island’s last remaining public equestrian center long-term — or whether they’ll even stay in existence. Civil Beat.

Some Kipapa Gulch residents blame development next door for heavy flooding. Some people KITV4 spoke with say they've lived there for more than 30 years and it was the worst flooding they've ever seen. KITV.

Hawaii Island

County considering Naalehu Theater gift. It’s a gift Hawaii County isn’t sure quite what to do with. The Naalehu Theater, a colorful Art Deco landmark built in 1940 along Mamalahoa Highway in Naalehu, needs a lot of TLC. West Hawaii Today.

State deploys new tactic in bid to get suit over Peter Boy Kema’s death tossed. The state appears to be relying on a technicality in a bid to avoid a civil lawsuit over the death of Peter Kema, Jr., known as Peter Boy. Hawaii News Now.

Fissure 8 names to be mulled next month. The question of what to call the most prominent remaining feature from the 2018 Kilauea volcano eruption will not be answered for several more months. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

New Partnership Aims to Increase Understanding of Marine Ecosystems. Maui Nui Marine Resource Council has launched a new partnership with the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary, located in Kihei. Maui Now.

Two visitor reports show strong November for Maui County. County led the state in revenue per room, average daily rate. Maui News.

Kauai

Coast Guard searching off Kauai for overdue tour helicopter with 7 people aboard. Coast Guard crews are searching by air and in the water for an overdue helicopter with seven people aboard that failed to return from a tour off Kauai’s Na Pali coast. Hawaii News Now.

Coast Guard searching for overdue helicopter off Kauai. The Coast Guard is searching tonight for a tour helicopter overdue on Kauai with seven people aboard. Star-Advertiser.

Coast Guard searching for overdue tour helicopter on Kauai, 7 on board. The Coast Guard is searching for seven people overdue aboard a tour helicopter on Kauai, Thursday. KITV.

Coast Guard searching for tour helicopter off Kauai’s Na Pali Coast. The Coast Guard is searching for seven people overdue aboard a tour helicopter on Kauai, Thursday. Maui Now.

Kauai visitors spend $1.7B. The tourism industry held steady statewide and on Kauai in November, according to the latest report from the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Garden Island.

Friday, January 18, 2019

Sovereignty group members arrested after storming OHA, hundreds mark Hawaiian Kingdom overthrow at Iolani Palace, Cayetano hospitalized for heart problems, Tulsi Gabbard apologizes for anti-gay stance, Peter Boy's mother dies, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Facebook photo Andre Perez
Office of Hawaiian Affairs PC: Andre Perez Facebook photo
Sovereignty group storms OHA. Five people were arrested Thursday after a radical sovereignty group muscled its way into the Honolulu headquarters of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs on the anniversary of the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy. Star-Advertiser.

5 arrested after members of sovereignty group storm OHA offices. At least five people were arrested Thursday after a self-proclaimed Polynesian sovereignty group stormed OHA’s office on Nimitz Highway, prompting an hours-long lockdown. Hawaii News Now.

Four Men Arrested For Assault After OHA Office Occupied. The Office of Hawaiian Affairs says some of its staff members were forcibly removed from the lobby by 12 people. Associated Press.

Five men arrested for storming Office of Hawaiian Affairs. The Office of Hawaiian Affairs was locked down for a couple of hours after a self-proclaimed sovereignty group occupied the facility. KHON2.

Hawaiian group attempts to overtake OHA offices: Five men arrested. Those arrested were booked for third-degree assault, an their bail was set at $100 each. KITV.

Native Hawaiians have mixed reactions to OHA occupation. KHON2.

Hundreds gathered at Iolani Palace on Thursday to commemorate 126 years since the overthrow of the Kingdom of Hawaii. The overthrow happened on Jan. 17, 1893. Hawaii News Now.

Hundreds march to mark 126th anniversary of overthrow. Hundreds marched in solidarity Thursday to commemorate the overthrow of the Kingdom of Hawaii. KITV.

OHA’s Own Audit Is Being Blocked — By People At OHA. The internal audit is supposed to identify areas where the Office of Hawaiian Affairs might be vulnerable to fraud and waste. Civil Beat.

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Cayetano hospitalized after suffering heart condition. Former Gov. Ben Cayetano is recovering in the hospital after suffering a rare but dangerous heart condition earlier this week. Hawaii News Now.

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Gabbard Apologizes In Video For Past Statements On Gay Rights. She released the video in response to criticism since she declared her candidacy for president. Associated Press.

Tulsi Gabbard releases video apology for past hurtful LGBTQ statements. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard of Hawaii, who last week announced she was running for president, apologized today for her record of anti-gay rhetoric and her past work for an anti-gay advocacy group — issues that have emerged as an early obstacle as she pursues a long-shot bid for the Democratic Party’s nomination. New York Times.

Hawaii Congresswoman and presidential candidate Tulsi Gabbard is apologizing for past beliefs and comments that she said were “wrong, and worse, hurtful to people in the LGBTQ+ community and their loved ones.” Hawaii News Now.

Rep. Tulsi Gabbard apologizes to LGBTQ community for earlier views. Gabbard's father ran The Alliance for Traditional Marriage, a political action committee aimed at opposing pro-gay lawmakers and legislation. KITV.

Less than a week after U.S. Representative Tulsi Gabbard confirmed she would be running for President of the United States in 2020, the Democratic Congresswoman from Hawaii has posted her first video apology to social media. Big Island Video News.

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A Hawaii businessman has been charged with bribing state employees and officials in the Federated States of Micronesia in order to receive multi-million dollar government contracts. Frank James Lyon, of LYON Associates Inc. in Honolulu, allegedly bribed the Hawaii government workers with at least $240,000 in order to land a $2.5 million contract, according to a federal court filing. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii School Superintendent’s Contract Extended For One Year. Some education advocates are concerned that the evaluation of Christina Kishimoto wasn’t tied more closely to data about school performance. Civil Beat.

School Board votes to extend Superintendent's contract. The Hawaii Board of Education voted to extend the School Superintendent Christina Kishimoto's contract by a year. KITV.

Fighting Climate Change Will Cost The State Millions. The state Department of Land and Natural Resources says money is urgently needed to protect beaches, watersheds, native species and more. Civil Beat.

The use of e-cigarettes among high school teens in Hawai’i is two times higher than the national average, according to the latest surveys.  And, the state legislature will be asked again to tighten Hawaii laws this session. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii’s unemployment rate rose in December for the fourth straight month as evidence mounted that economic growth in the state is slowing. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

The agency constructing the $9 billion Honolulu rail project violated state procurement law multiple times, according to a report by the city auditor. Star-Advertiser.

Rail Project Director Doesn’t Fully Meet Expectations — But Still Gets A Bonus. Andrew Robbins has proven a “quick study” in his first year leading the project but needs to improve, according to his job evaluation. Civil Beat.

Rail CEO won’t see a raise this year, but he did get a hefty bonus. The chief executive of Honolulu’s rail transit project won’t get a raise this year, but the rail authority’s board did vote to give Andrew Robbins a $10,000 bonus. Hawaii News Now.

The board of directors of the Honolulu rail authority granted CEO Andrew Robbins a $10,000 bonus Thursday as part of his evaluation for his first year on the job but declined to give him a pay increase. Star-Advertiser.

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City, Kealohas battle over secrecy of ethics investigation evidence. The city is going to court to protect evidence uncovered by ethics investigations of Kathy and Louis Kealoha. It's findings that later played a role in the ongoing federal criminal investigation. KHON2.

Dozens of government workers and union supporters gathered Thursday morning at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport for a silent march to protest the partial government shutdown. Star-Advertiser.

Oceangoers spotted walking on sperm whale carcass off Oahu. Video captured Wednesday shows a swimmer climbing on the carcass and then falling into the water. Hawaii News Now.

Star-Advertiser forms exposition, trade fair division. The Honolulu Star-Advertiser is expanding its line of expositions and trade fairs through a new events division, Star Events. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

The County Council has resurrected an old general excise tax hike that was postponed last May and put it on Wednesday’s council agenda for consideration. But officials say it’s on the agenda only as a procedural move, because the previous council in May had postponed it to the second council meeting in January. West Hawaii Today.

New leadership: Maui Electric Co.’s president will also oversee HELCO as Jay Ignacio retires. Hawaiian Electric is appointing one person to lead its Hawaii Island and Maui subsidiaries as the private power utility seeks to consolidate administrative positions. Tribune-Herald.

A proposed 11-unit condominium on the makai side of Alii Drive is moving forward again, but some residents are speaking out about it and one petition for standing in a contested case hearing has already been filed in the case. West Hawaii Today.

Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commissioners recently got an update on the status of the Amy B.H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden in South Kona, which was identified by the commission as the number 2 priority for acquisition in its 2018 Report to the Mayor. Big Island Video News.

Jaylin Kema, mother of ‘Peter Boy,’ dead at 48. Jaylin Kema, the mother of fatal child abuse victim Peter Kema Jr., aka “Peter Boy,” died Wednesday night. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Servco Lexus Maui and Servco Subaru Maui held a blessing and grand opening ceremony for its new dual dealership location in Kahului at the Maui Business Park II. Maui Now.

Beginning in February, Maui County girls ages 11 to 17 may join the Boy Scouts, part of a nationwide change that began in October 2017 when the Boy Scouts announced that it would accept girls into the program. Maui News.

Kauai

Many hands have removed large amounts of the invasive aquatic plant salvinia from the Kilauea River over the past few years, but nature’s April flooding really swept it downstream. Garden Island.

Director sought for Grove Farm Museum. Garden Island.

Wednesday, October 25, 2017

Honolulu first big city to ban pedestrian cellphone use, Huckabee rallies GOP, state fixes FEMA flood problems, Honolulu seeks tighter liquor laws, police chief interviews continue, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2017 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Cellphones in Waikiki © 2017 All Hawaii News
Crossing the street? Whatever you do, don't look at your phone. Starting Wednesday, pedestrians could be fined for crossing a street on Oahu while looking at a cell phone or other electronic device. City officials say Honolulu is the first major city in the nation to enact this type of ban. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu makes looking at electronic devices while crossing streets, highways illegal. A new city ordinance makes it illegal for pedestrians to look at electronic devices while crossing the street. The law goes into effect on Wednesday. KHON2.

Former presidential candidate rallies to revive Republican spirit in Hawaii. Speaking to a crowd of about 500 guests at the Koolau Ballrooms Tuesday night, former presidential candidate Mike Huckabee hoped to reignite the spirit of Hawaii's Republican Party. Hawaii News Now.

FEMA says Hawaii no longer at risk of suspension from National Flood Insurance Program. In April 2016, FEMA warned the state that Hawaii Senate Bill 586, which exempted buildings on agriculture lands from county zoning laws, prevented Hawaiian counties from being fully compliant with the agency’s NFIP requirements. Pacific Business News.

Honolulu City Councilmembers are expected to request the state legislature pass measures to toughen liquor laws next session. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaiian Electric Cos. have taken the next step toward achieving Hawaii's clean energy goal by submitting paperwork with state regulators for the process of soliciting new renewable energy proposals. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

The state plans to reopen Kewalo Basin Park, the two Gateway Parks and the Point Panic area of Kakaako Waterfront Park on Monday, three weeks after clearing the parks of large homeless encampments. Star-Advertiser.

Two Kakaako parks could reopen next week, more work needed at Waterfront. KHON2.

Honolulu Council Committee Shoots Down Islandwide Sit-Lie Ban. The panel tinkered with homelessness proposals, shifting from the concept of safe zones to tiny homes. Civil Beat.

How Domestic Violence Can Lead To Homelessness. The link is clear but the connection is often overlooked by policymakers trying to end homelessness. Civil Beat.

Honolulu police suspect teenage assailants were behind three recent high-profile violent crimes in Waikiki, where hundreds of teens live on the streets. Star-Advertiser.

Officer, ex-prosecutor expect more arrests in Kealoha case. The officer who last month publicly alleged widespread corruption within the Honolulu Police Department said Tuesday that he and his colleagues are thrilled that federal authorities have charged several current and former officers with criminal wrongdoing and are pursuing more leads in an investigation that has rocked Hawaii’s law enforcement community. Star-Advertiser.

Covert Honolulu Police Unit Has Long History Of Troubles. The CIU is again under scrutiny, with five officers recently arrested as part of a federal investigation into police corruption. Civil Beat.

Attorney: 3 Honolulu police commissioners should step down. An attorney who helped convinced federal authorities to investigate former Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha is calling for a major overhaul at the Honolulu Police Commission. Associated Press.

High Court Rejects Media Complaint About Police Commission Secrecy. The legal challenge was made to ensure that the public has access to hearings for Honolulu cops who want taxpayer help. Civil Beat.

Three police chief finalists appear before commission on second day of interviews. Interviews continued Tuesday with three more candidates vying to lead the state’s largest police department. KHON2.

Hunt for the next police chief continues as finalists endure interview round. Three more finalists vying for the position of Honolulu's next police chief were grilled by the Honolulu Police Commission Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

Chief of Police interviews now in progress; will continue through Wednesday. KITV.

Four proposals aimed at resolving issues tied to bed-and-breakfast establishments and other transient vacation rentals go before the Honolulu City Council’s Zoning and Housing Committee on Thursday. Star-Advertiser.


New city proposals to legalize certain vacation rentals, and crackdown on scofflaws. KITV.

Honolulu's small business owners not happy with local government, survey says. Honolulu earned an F in the following three categories: employment, labor and hiring regulations; licensing regulations; and tax regulations. Pacific Business News.

Hanauma Bay supporters mark 50 years of protection. Today nearly 1 million people a year are drawn to the spectacular East Oahu bay, a coastal volcanic crater that has become the island’s premier snorkeling destination. Star-Advertiser.

Lawsuit alleges negligence in 2016 death of HFD firefighter. The son of a Honolulu firefighter who died after a training accident in 2016 has filed a lawsuit against the city. Hawaii News Now.

Marco Polo building open for possible plaintiffs, defendants. The Marco Polo condo building in which a July fire killed four people has been opened to numerous people who might file lawsuits, potential defendants such as product manufacturers and their insurers, and fire experts from across the nation. Associated Press

Chinatown building’s renovation helps preserve affordable rentals. An extreme home makeover that included removing a gambling den at a low-income apartment complex on city land in Honolulu is being celebrated today as part of a $13 million project to preserve affordable housing. Star-Advertiser.

First homeowners begin moving into Kakaako tower. Keauhou Place, a 423-unit condominium tower, opened its doors to an initial batch of 57 homeowners who were scheduled to pick up their keys Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu police are investigating the death of a 2-year-old girl who allegedly had boiling water poured on her in August while staying on base with her Scho­field Barracks father, relatives of the girl and officials said. Star-Advertiser

Honolulu construction company gets $10M task order for work at Pearl Harbor-Hickam. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

State eyes $42K fine for reef damage. The state Land Board will consider fining a boat tour operator $42,165 for damage done to the historic Punaluu Wharf. Tribune-Herald.

The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands met with the community in Honomū Gym on Monday evening, to talk about a plan to create a the first-of-its-kind, Subsistence Agriculture Homestead Lease on 766 acres of land above town. Big Island Video News.

The Hawaii County Board of Ethics dismissed two more complaints filed by North Kohala resident Lanric Hyland during a meeting in Hilo on Monday, finding them to be frivolous and prompting further discussion on the board’s rules of procedure for handling such complaints. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii island Circuit Court Judge Greg Nakamura formally declared Peter “Peter Boy” Kema Jr. to be dead today in a decision that clears the way for a lawsuit by Kema’s siblings in one of Hawaii’s most infamous child abuse cases. Star-Advertiser.

Jaylin Kema, the mother of Peter Kema Jr., also known as “Peter Boy,” was re-sentenced Tuesday to 10 years of probation after she violated her probation on a manslaughter charge earlier this year. Tribune-Herald.

U.S. Coast Guard crews are monitoring a local company’s floating island that appeared to be listing Tuesday in Kailua Bay following foul weather that lashed the Big Island. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Tsutsui move opens up mayoral race. Lt. Gov. Shan Tsutsui’s announcement that he is not running for Maui County mayor in 2018 brought reactions of surprise, relief and understanding from those who have announced their intentions to seek the county’s top office. Maui News.

Public hearings on proposed amendments to the State Commission on Water Resource Management administrative rules pertaining to water use, wells, and stream diversion works will be held island-wide with the first meeting taking place in Wailuku on Oct. 30. Maui Now.

Thousands of lightning strikes and 60 mph wind gusts downed power lines and zapped Maui Electric Co. systems early Tuesday morning causing a countywide power outage that shut down businesses, flooded homes and caused traffic jams and flight delays and cancellations. Maui News.

Teen starts petition to save Barnes & Noble. West Maui bookstore to close at the end of the year. Maui News.

Meeting on Kanaio site inspection set for Nov. 1. Maui News.

Kauai

Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. is announcing his candidacy for higher office today on Oahu, according to a press release from the 2018 Carvalho campaign. While Carvalho is expected to throw his hat into the running for Hawaii governor, some speculate he might run for lieutenant governor. Garden Island.

A mediated settlement, approved by the Hawaii Commission on Water Resource Management in April, to immediately restore continuous flows in West Kauai’s Waimea River, is the subject of a video mini-documentary produced by the state Department of Land and Natural Resources. Garden Island.

Help wanted to rid Kilauea River of invasives. Salvinia hails from Brazil and is the most invasive species in Hawaii. Garden Island.

Tuesday, July 25, 2017

Hawaii's worker shortage, state at odds over voter info, Schofield soldier in court, 'Peter Boy' father gets 20 years, Kauai seeks to save native birds, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2017 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Waikiki restaurant worker © 2017 All Hawaii News
There Just Aren’t Enough Workers To Go Around In Hawaii. The state labor director calls it a “perfect storm” as restaurateurs and retailers struggle to recruit — and keep — employees. Civil Beat.

A federal judge has cleared the way for President Donald Trump’s commission on election fraud to resume collecting detailed voter roll information from the states, but at least one election official in Hawaii says he won’t comply with the federal request. Star-Advertiser.

A U.S. Army soldier based in Hawaii pleaded not guilty Monday to charges of attempting to support the Islamic State group. Associated Press.

A Schofield soldier accused of trying to provide support for ISIS has pleaded not guilty. KHON2.

A federal judge Monday scheduled a trial date in September for Wheeler Army Airfield soldier Ikaika Erik Kang on four counts of trying to provide support to the Islamic State, also known as ISIS. Star-Advertiser.

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A trustee with the Office of Hawaiian Affairs has accepted nearly $16,000 from a Native Hawaiian heiress to pay for legal fees in her battle against fellow trustees. Civil Beat.

Native Hawaiian waterman Malama Chun of Maui filed a petition with the state Board of Land and Natural Resources on April 12, 2017, challenging the DLNR Division of Aquatic Resources’ practice of issuing licenses to foreign fisherman who have been refused permission to land in Hawai’i by US authorities and have been ordered deported. Maui Now.

Royal Hawaiian Macadamia Nut Inc. said Monday that the company’s petition to claim that consuming macadamia nuts can help reduce the risk of coronary heart disease under certain circumstances has officially been approved by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration. Pacific Business News.

Two of the three storms in the Eastern Pacific strengthened overnight. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines said Monday it will add three new daily routes between the neighbor islands and the U.S. West Coast in early 2018. Star-Advertiser.

A robust economy continued to boost Bank of Hawaii’s double-digit loan growth in the second quarter, with earnings per share exceeding analysts’ expectations. Star-Advertiser.

Wailuku artist Kirk Kurokawa’s “most significant” project in his artistic collection — the official painting of former Gov. Neil Abercrombie — was unveiled last week on Oahu. Maui News.

Oahu

Mayor Kirk Caldwell on Monday signed into law a bill that bans nearly all plastic bags distributed at Oahu retail checkout counters starting Jan. 1, 2020. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council is considering a bill that would expand the city’s sit-lie ban another few blocks in the Ala Moana-Sheridan area. Civil Beat.

Honolulu’s Potholes Cost Drivers — And Taxpayers — Millions. A 2016 study found the city had the 11th-worst roads among large urban areas, and residents pay more than the national average for related car repairs. Civil Beat.

The police presence in Oahu’s main tourist hub could be getting a boost thanks to a gift that puts more boots on the ground. A Waikiki business group wants to give $85,000 to the city. KHON2.

The July Fourth Waikiki “floatilla” attracted a crowd of about 9,000 partyers, led to at least 30 alcohol-related injuries and cost the city and state more than $12,000 to police, so it’s little wonder officials want to halt alcohol use at future floatillas. Star-Advertiser.

The executive director of the Hawaii Community Development Authority said since April the number of illegal campers in Kakaako parks under HCDA supervision has nearly doubled. Hawaii News Now.

Bill to ban electronic devices for crossing pedestrians represents latest push to make roads safer. Bill 6, which is awaiting the mayor’s approval, would make it illegal to look at a phone, tablet, gaming device, or anything electronic while crossing the street. KHON2.

The Queen Kapiolani Hotel, a 312-room property across the street from Kapiolani Park, is starting a $30 million makeover. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Peter Kema Sr. was sentenced Monday in Hilo Circuit Court to 20 years in prison for the 1997 death of his 6-year-old son, Peter Kema Jr. Tribune-Herald.

Peter Kema Sr. was sentenced to 20 years in prison this morning for the manslaughter of his 6-year-old son, Peter Boy, whose fate remained a mystery for two decades until his parents recently acknowledge their roles in his death. Star-Advertiser.

20 years. That is how long it's been since Peter Boy Kema's death. It's also the sentence handed down to his father on Monday, for killing the Big Island boy. KITV.

Hawaii County Prosecutor Mitch Roth said he’s using lessons learned from the Peter Kema Jr. case to propose changes in the laws governing child abuse and home schooling and to advocate for a longer statute of limitations period for manslaughter. Tribune-Herald.

A lawyer for the estate of the late Peter Kema Jr. and the siblings of “Peter Boy” sent a cease-and-desist letter to a senior vice president of Amazon.com, attempting to persuade the online merchandising giant to pull the Kindle book series “Peter Boy: Hawaii’s Most Notorious Case of Child Abuse and Murder” from its website. Tribune-Herald.

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Major changes are coming to boating and harbor rules, but those most affected say the state hasn’t consulted with them, or even made the rules readily available prior to public hearings scheduled for Thursday and Friday. West Hawaii Today.

PA system installed at popular Kailua-Kona beach park. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaiian Airlines will add a new year-round flight from Los Angeles to Kona starting early next year. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Ulupalakua Ranch on Maui is best known for its winery and cowboy culture, but not its Hawaiian dry forest. A 20-year forest restoration project on Ranch lands is changing that. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui Electric Co. is seeking approval by the state Public Utilities Commission to refurbish one of its 21-megawatt petroleum-fired turbines at the Maalaea Power Plant, which will cost an estimated $2.6 million. Maui News.

Three months after being forced to vacate its longtime dance studio in the Old Kula Community Center, the Alexander Academy of Performing Arts has found a new home in Haliimaile that will allow it to add classes, teachers and more studio space in the coming months. Maui News.

Maui’s electronic recycling program should reopen August 5th after being closed for several weeks. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaiian Airlines will add a new non-stop daily route between Portland and Maui, starting Jan. 18. Maui Now.

Move over, Kona. Maui coffee is getting much stronger. Maui News.

Kauai

Noisemakers and motion sensors are just a few of the new tools scientists and conservationists are combining with traps to reduce predators in remote endangered seabird nesting areas. Garden Island.

There are nearly 400 predator traps scattered throughout Kauai's Hono O Na Pali Natural Area Reserve. Hawaii News Now.

The county Housing Agency will be hosting a community meeting Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Koloa Neighborhood Center to discuss plans for a new workforce housing development. Garden Island.

Boardwalk from Kawaihau Road to highway is open. Garden Island.

Niihau

State officials say they're moving ahead with a second attempt at eradicating rats from a tiny island near Niihau, but critics of the plan say they're worried about the potential risks to the marine environment. Hawaii News Now.

Monday, May 15, 2017

U.S. Supreme Court rebuffs challenge to open primaries, former state director writes tell-all Peter Boy book, Ostrov to head state GOP, Maui property tax hikes approved, homeless arrested on Kauai, more news from all the Hawaiian islands

copyright 2017 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Hawaii kupuna at hula © 2017 All Hawaii News
Hawaii is the third healthiest state in the country for senior citizens, according to the 2017 America’s Health Rankings Senior Report released by United Health Foundation. Star-Advertiser.

The Supreme Court has turned away challenges to open primaries in Hawaii and Montana that allow voters to take part in party primary elections regardless of their political affiliations. Associated Press.

Campaign Cash Flowed To Hawaii Lawmakers As Hot Topics Debated. Lawmakers may not have settled the rail tax issue, but they did hold a lot of fundraisers during the session. Civil Beat.

The shake-up in state Senate leadership that began at the end of the legislative session with the ouster of Sen. Jill Tokuda as chair of the Ways and Means Committee continued Friday with the announcement of some new committee chairmanships. Civil Beat.

Central Maui state Sen. Gil Keith-Agaran has been named as vice chairman of the powerful Senate Ways and Means Committee, which works with the House Finance Committee and governor’s administration to handle the state’s purse strings. Maui News.

Shirlene Ostrov, a retired Air Force colonel and founder of a logistics consulting company, defeated state House Minority Leader Andria Tupola at the party’s state convention Saturday on Kauai to become the new chairwoman of the Hawaii Republican Party. Star-Advertiser.

A retired Air Force colonel was overwhelmingly selected as the chair of the Hawaii GOP at the party’s 2017 state convention. Garden Island.

Government's Affordable Housing Model Doesn't Work. Hawaii Public Radio.

Affordable Housing: Nothing Being Built on Neighbor Islands. Hawaii Public Radio.

Eight months after an extensive Associated Press investigation detailing poor labor conditions aboard Hawaii longline vessels, little appears to have changed when it comes to protecting the foreign fishermen who can’t stray from their American boats docked at Honolulu Harbor without risking deportation. Associated Press.

Why It’s Taking So Long To Open Hawaii’s Medical Marijuana Dispensaries. The state legalized the use of cannabis as medicine 17 years ago, but patients still have no place to legally buy it. Civil Beat.

Singapore budget-airline Scoot is planning to fly to Hawaii. Pacific Business News.

Hawaiian Airlines is trying to capture a bigger share of the Chinese market and has increased its marketing efforts in the country. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

While the numbers show Oahu’s overall homeless population grew by just 19 people, the island saw a 9 percent increase in homeless veterans despite a nationwide push to house them. Star-Advertiser.

A developer with investors from China is accusing City Councilman Ikaika Anderson of trying to illegally oppose a planned condominium tower because some units are intended for sale in China. Star-Advertiser.

Opposition To Foreign Condo Sales Raises Legal Questions. Did a City Council member create legal risks by suggesting the council might deny a development permit if the condos were sold to Chinese buyers? Civil Beat.

The Honolulu City Council deferred action on a bill Wednesday that would require retailers to charge a fee for single-use checkout bags and ban so-called compostable plastic bags. Star-Advertiser.

St. Louis Drive-In voluntarily shut down after the state Department of Health reported seeing more than 200 live roaches and rat droppings during a recent inspection. Despite what was found, the restaurant was allowed to keep its green placard. KHON2.

Rental homes in a Kalaeloa neighborhood where residents were once hit with utility bills as high as $700 a month are set to get a solar system. Star-Advertiser.

Global Japanese supermarket chain Mitsuwa Marketplace will open its first Hawaii location next week at the International Market Place. Pacific Business News.

Chimp escapes enclosure at Honolulu Zoo, prompting evacuation. Hawaii News Now.

A chimpanzee scaled a wall and escaped from its exhibit Sunday at the Honolulu Zoo. Star-Advertiser.

Renowned surfer Kelly Slater has purchased a 6,610-square-foot property in Haleiwa for $7.8 million, according to property filings. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Peter Boy's siblings are shocked by publication of e-book, “Peter Boy, Hawaii’s Most Notorious Case of Child Abuse and Murder," by Lillian Koller, former director of the state Department of Human Services, which investigates child abuse cases. Star-Advertiser.

West Hawaii’s three council districts, home to a third of the island’s approximately 198,000 people, continues to be the county government’s cash cow, accounting for almost 70 percent of property tax revenues under rate hikes planned by Mayor Harry Kim. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Island representatives say they have secured more than $331 million in Capital Improvement Project funding for the biennium of fiscal years 2018 and 2019 for various projects across Hawaii County. Big Island Video News.

Mauna Lani Bay resort, which has been owned by a subsidiary of Japanese-based Tokyu Corp. for all of its more than 40-year-history, is getting a new owner — a change that will bring needed resort reinvestment and fuel upward repositioning for Hawaii island’s Kohala Coast. Star-Advertiser.

A leader of a group of opponents trying to stop a giant telescope from being built on a Hawaii mountain said she is concerned they are at a disadvantage because they can’t afford to pay for thousands of pages of transcripts. Associated Press.

Construction of the long-awaited Puna Kai marketplace in Pahoa is scheduled to begin June 1. The project has been in development since 2012. Tribune-Herald.

The Waimea Town Center development plan and a land exchange between Parker Ranch and the Hawaii Department of Education were central topics at a South Kohala Traffic Safety Committee meeting held in Waimea last week. West Hawaii Today.

Soldier killed, another injured in training accident on the Big Island. Hawaii News Now.

One person was killed and another injured when a military tractor trailer carrying a sky jack lost control and barreled through a guardrail and down the embankment causing the vehicle to roll over. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The Maui County Council narrowly approved a property tax rate resolution on Friday for fiscal 2018, which begins July 1. Maui News.

Upward of 100 homeless people live around Baldwin Beach Park, according to the county, and social service agencies are trying to prepare them to leave their extended campsite. Maui News.

Solutions for pali traffic woes elusive. Maui News.

Administrators of Hawaii’s public-sector employee retirement fund have come up with a plan to get out of a sand trap of sorts pertaining to an unusual asset it owns: two golf courses at Kaanapali Resort on Maui. Star-Advertiser.

Teresa Shook of Hana has been honored by the Hawaii Legislature as a “Visionary for the 2017 Women’s March.” Maui News.

Kauai

State law enforcement officers arrested 17 people in the Kalalau section of Napali Coast State Wilderness Park on Kauai in the past week for allegedly being in a closed area without a valid permit, the Department of Land and Natural Resources said today. Star-Advertiser.

Developers of a proposed industrial dairy on Kauai will need to jump through a few more hoops before construction can start, due to a final order from Hawaii’s Environmental Court. Garden Island.

Tropic Care Kauai returns to the island offering medical care at no cost between June 12 through 21 at three clinic sites. Garden Island.

Acquiring coastal lands and designating no parking zones are on tap for discussion when the Kauai County Council meets Wednesday. Garden Island.

Tuesday, April 18, 2017

Schatz begins island town hall tour, Gabbard building campaign chest, state unveils mapping program, potholes pique Honolulu motorists, Bernie backers take over local Democratic Party, Maui council chairman cleared of ethics charge, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz, Facebook photo by Cynthia Pope Fritts
Hawaii's U.S. Senator Brian Schatz is in the islands offering his perspectives on everything from Trump to Syria. More than 500 community members packed a room at Chaminade University Monday for Schatz's first Honolulu town hall this year. KITV.

U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz nimbly fielded questions on a range of weighty policy issues ranging from internet privacy, health care, North Korea’s nuclear threat and the situation in Syria during a mid-day town hall meeting at Chaminade University’s Richard Mamiya Theatre in Kaimuki today. Star-Advertiser.

Should U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard choose to run for re-election next year — or for some other federal office — she’s already got $2 million to spend. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Police Agencies Struggle To Equip Officers With Body Cameras. Civil Beat.

The House of Representatives recently passed Senate Bill 174, which seeks to allow people to qualify for medical marijuana if they suffer from lupus, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis or arthritis. Garden Island.

A state House member is seeking input about legislation that would make vote-by-mail standard protocol in Hawaii. Tribune-Herald.

Maps identifying everything from the locations of homeless shelters to ahupuaa boundaries are now available online to the public thanks to a partnership between the state Office of Planning and the Office of Enterprise Technology Services. Star-Advertiser.

Federal grant money is being offered to Hawaii nonprofit organizations, public agencies and federally recognized tribal groups for initiatives that serve rural areas. Star-Advertiser.

North Korea tensions, disease not deterring isle tourists. Star-Advertiser.

Commentary: What Your Lawmakers Are Getting Away With. There are even more tax increases than usual making their way through the Hawaii Legislature. Civil Beat.

Hawaii chef Sam Choy is gearing up for another luau at Facebook’s Meno Park, Cali., headquarters next month after working with Google — another one of the world’s most influential companies — for many years. Pacific Business News.

Bank of Hawaii is pulling its ATMs out of McDonald’s systemwide after being a fixture in the fast-food restaurants for more than two decades. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Oahu’s streets get sorry marks from likely voters, with only 1 percent ranking them as “very good.” On the other end, 26 percent of those surveyed in the latest Hawaii Poll said Oahu streets are in “very poor” condition. Star-Advertiser.

Sales of single family homes doubled in parts of Honolulu this March. KITV.

Hawaii Island

Several Kona residents on Monday pushed back against a proposal to build a 306-unit condominium development in Kahaluu. West Hawaii Today.

Fueled by the 2016 Bernie Sanders movement, a new wave of leadership is taking over the Hawaii County Democratic Party. West Hawaii Today.

Planning for the last extension of Saddle Road is moving ahead, though it remains unclear when construction funds will be available. Tribune-Herald.

A bill aimed at increasing housing opportunities for Hawaii Island’s farm workers moves into conferencing this week, marking the latest hurdle cleared for the measure. Tribune-Herald.

The new attorney for "Peter Boy" Kema's relatives says the state's Department of Human Services should be held accountable for the decision to return the 6-year-old to his abusive parents 20 years ago, despite multiple warnings that the child's life could be in danger. Hawaii News Now.

A case of a harmful honey bee disease has popped up on the Big Island. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui

An ethics complaint against Maui County Council Chairman Mike White has been dismissed. Maui News.

A notice has been issued for the opening of applications for the affordable rental housing lottery at the County of Maui’s Kulamalu Hale. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kauai Police Chief Darryl Perry has his eyes set on leading the department in the city where his career in law enforcement began — Honolulu. Garden Island.

Thursday, April 6, 2017

Another $1.2B for Honolulu rail, homeless program in jeopardy, Honolulu council nixes trash fee, 20-year-old Big Island murder case solved, Aloha Stadium downsizing, Maui council seeks to save golf course, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu rail project construction, by Musashi1600 - Own work via Wikipedia
The House Finance Committee voted late Wednesday to provide an additional $1.2 billion to financially bail out the Honolulu rail project, but Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell said that won’t be enough to get the job done. Star-Advertiser.

House Panel Ponies Up Another $1.2 Billion For Honolulu Rail. It’s not as much as the city wanted, but the Finance Committee chair said it should be enough to finish construction. Civil Beat.

A state-funded program that in less than a year helped 1,515 island families stay in their homes — or get off the street and into housing — faces an uncertain future on Friday. Star-Advertiser.

When it comes to one of the most high-profile issues before the Legislature — medical aid in dying — most House members are remaining silent about their position. The House Health Committee’s deferral of the bill let other members off the hook on making their position on the issue known to the public. Civil Beat.

Native Hawaiian Culture Overcomes Incarceration. Hawaii Public Radio.

Over the past decade, the Office of Hawaiian Affairs has transferred millions of dollars of its real estate holdings, including its ownership of Waimea Valley and a poi mill on Kauai to private, nonprofit companies that it controls. But critics say those nonprofits were created to shield OHA from public scrutiny, and to conceal mismanagement. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii has the second-highest individual tax burden in the U.S., behind New York, according to a study released Wednesday by WalletHub. Star-Advertiser.

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs is condemning the Paris auction of what is being billed as the world’s largest private collection of Hawaiian art and will ask the seller to stop or delay the sale in order to negotiate a “morally appropriate resolution.” Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii workers’ use of methamphetamine dropped slightly in the first quarter, but the use of synthetic urine rose. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

The Honolulu City Council Budget Committee rejected a bill that would have created a $10-a-month fee for residential curbside trash pickup, with members suggesting they’d rather look at raising property tax rates for the bulk of Oahu’s homeowners if there’s not enough money to pay for services.  Star-Advertiser.

Oahu residents worried about Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s proposal to make them start paying for trash collection can breathe a sigh of relief. Civil Beat.

A City Council committee gave tentative approval Tuesday to pay out an additional $300,000 to three downtown law firms to represent the city Ethics Commission, its former executive director and former commission investigator in a suit filed by former Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha. Star-Advertiser.

More than 30 qualified candidates have applied to become the Honolulu Police Department’s next chief, the Honolulu Police Commission said Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Police Commission will have at least 30 candidates to choose from for the next police chief, according to Chairman Max Sword. Civil Beat.

Oahu’s solar industry continues to tank, as bills designed to help revive it move through the state Legislature. Star-Advertiser.

The development of a new, smaller stadium that seats between 30,000 and 40,000 people, which would replace Aloha Stadium, along with the 2.6 million square feet of mixed-use development of the 100-acre site of the Honolulu stadium’s surrounding property could create $1.5 billion in economic output over 25 years, according to a new report released Wednesday. Pacific Business News.

Entering its 43rd year, Aloha Stadium has, “… served its useful life and is now a liability to fan experiences, a potential danger to public health and safety and a financial burden for maintenance and operations,” a consultant’s report warns. Star-Advertiser.

Video: Aloha Stadium Conceptual Redevelopment Report Press Conference. Civil Beat.

The CEO of a nonprofit organization that supports the National Park Service’s operations in Pearl Harbor has been suspended while the group’s board investigates allegations made in an anonymous letter. Associated Press.

Builder gets extension on year-late affordable homes. Star-Advertiser.

Pacific Business News has launched Crane Watch Honolulu to keep track of all of the development and construction taking place. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

Expressing frustration with what they called a lack of communication from Mayor Harry Kim over a multimillion-dollar composting contract, members of the County Council took unanimous action Wednesday on two measures to try to keep a hand in contract negotiations. West Hawaii Today.

The state Department of Health cleared all remaining Hilo Bay beaches still affected by a sewage spill Monday to reopen Wednesday afternoon after tests showed the water to be safe to enter. Tribune-Herald.

The father of Peter “Peter Boy” Kema Jr. pleaded guilty to manslaughter and hindering prosecution in Hilo Circuit Court today, accepting a plea deal in the murder of his young son two decades ago and agreeing to reveal where the body is located. Star-Advertiser.

Peter Kema Sr. pleaded guilty today to manslaughter and first-degree hindering prosecution in the death of his son. Tribune-Herald.

In a groundbreaking development to one of Hawaii's most well-known murder cases, Peter Kema, Sr. pleaded guilty to manslaughter on Wednesday for the 1997 death of his 6-year-old son, Peter Boy. Hawaii News Now.

A planned cleanup at Old Kona Airport Beach Park later this month has been postponed because a solution on where to move the homeless currently camping in the area has not yet been reached. West Hawaii Today.

The lava ocean entry once again can be seen up close from the sea after the Coast Guard granted four tour operators access within its temporary safety zone. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

A bill proposed by the Planning Department to regulate drive-through signs in Maui County for the first time was passed out of a council committee. Maui Now.

Several Maui County Council members say they want to find ways to keep the Waiehu Municipal Golf Course open, despite Mayor Alan Arakawa’s proposal to mull over the closure of the 87-year-old course due to millions of dollars of losses in the past decade. Maui News.

Medical marijuana products could be available by July at one of Maui’s two licensed medical marijuana dispensaries, a company official said Wednesday. Maui News.

The Maui Invasive Species Committee and state Department of Health will hold a community meeting Thursday night on rising concerns over a recent outbreak of rat lungworm disease in East Maui. Maui News.

There are four confirmed cases of rat lungworm disease on Maui. KHON2.

Kauai

A day after four men were arrested for trespassing, Wainiha community members and county officials met Wednesday to discuss community safety, kuleana lands and Native Hawaiian rights. Garden Island.

The County Republican Convention for Kauai is scheduled Saturday at the Lihue United Church parish hall. Garden Island.

Talking about climate change as a way to generate awareness and solutions is the goal of a new Kauai hui, the Kauai Climate Literacy Initiative. Garden Island.

Wednesday, April 5, 2017

Statehouse politics: Joe Souki for lieutenant governor? Bills for vacation rentals, medical marijuana, child care advancing in Legislature; Honolulu tops in solar installs; 'Peter Boy' father set for plea deal, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Speaker Joe Souki in House chambers, from joesouki.com
Will Joe Souki Be Hawaii’s Next Lt Gov? There’s a lot of speculation about how the dominoes could fall if Lt. Gov. Shan Tsutsui resigns to run for Maui mayor. Civil Beat.

Affordable housing advocates fear the Legislature won’t allocate enough money this year to have a meaningful effect on Hawaii’s housing shortage. Civil Beat.

Two bills to allow online vacation rental sites like Airbnb to collect taxes from hosts and remit them to the state moved forward Tuesday, including one that emerged after a task force bill to study vacation rentals was gutted and replaced. Star-Advertiser.

A couple of bills seeking to amend laws regarding medical marijuana are passing through the Legislature. Garden Island.

Two bills that supporters say will make parents feel their kids are being properly taken care of in child care facilities are nearing the finish line at the Hawaii Legislature. Civil Beat.

A Hawaii bill that would have required beauticians to undergo training to spot signs of domestic violence has died. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu ranks first in the United States when it comes to solar energy installations per capita, according to a new report released Tuesday. Pacific Business News.

The private security company whose officer shot and killed a pet dog at Honolulu Airport last week said the pit bull was loose and tried to attack the officer, who was injured trying to avoid contact during the incident. Star-Advertiser.

Autopsy: Maui man who breached Honolulu airport security had used meth. Star-Advertiser.

State Attorney General Douglas Chin is asking lawmakers to earmark more than $10 million to settle claims by subcontractors who were never paid for materials or work they did on a Honolulu Airport cargo and maintenance hangar project that stalled in late 2015. Star-Advertiser.

One of five employees at the women’s prison named in a lawsuit filed last week by 10 inmates alleging varying degrees of sexual assault and harassment said he was exonerated of all charges by the state. Star-Advertiser.

A state judge said Tuesday the hearing of a former Kamehameha Schools teacher accused of videotaping students in his shower will be public. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiian Electric Co. has launched a pilot program that offers a $20 discount on monthly electrical bills to 2,000 customers who are dependent on life-support equipment. Star-Advertiser.

Two new cultural markers erected in February near the hula mound at Kapolei Regional Park are part of a growing effort by community groups that hope not only to educate residents about places of historic significance, but to help deter vandalism. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's second Holiday Inn Express hotel recently opened in the former Maile Sky Court in Waikiki following a $30 million rebranding and renovation. Pacific Business News.

The Holiday Inn Express Honolulu-Waikiki, the largest Holiday Inn Express in the U.S., held its grand opening Monday following the completion of a $30 million renovation and re-branding. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The Hawaii Community Correctional Center might be the cause of a sewer main clog that unleashed up to 41,000 gallons of untreated sewage into the Wailuku River and Hilo Bay on Monday. Tribune-Herald.

Beach advisories for Kahaluu and the Kamakahonu side of Kailua Pier have been dropped. West Hawaii Today.

After informally agreeing to lift some road requirements and have the developer meet with local union representatives, the County Council Planning Committee gave preliminary approval Tuesday to a planned shopping plaza at Mauna Lani resorts. West Hawaii Today.

As requested by the Administration, the Department of Parks and Recreation is postponing its planned clean-up operation at Old Airport Park in Kona, while the County seeks an alternative site for homeless people camping at the facility. Big Island Video News.

One week after establishing a “Safety Zone” keeping boats a distance away from the Kamokuna lava ocean entry, the U.S. Coast Guard says vessels can now request entrance into the area. Big Island Video News.

Peter Kema Sr. to change plea in ‘Peter Boy’ case. Tribune-Herald.

The father of Peter “Peter Boy” Kema Jr. is scheduled to appear today in Hilo Circuit Court and is expected to accept a plea deal in the murder of his young son two decades ago. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

The immigration policies of the Trump Administration played out today in Honolulu. It involves the deportation and removal of a Mexican immigrant. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui woman facing deportation to Mexico gets temporary reprieve. KITV.

Eight years of growing losses have prompted Wailuku Water Co. to ask the state Public Utilities Commission for permission to sell about 4,500 acres of its land in the West Maui Mountains. Maui News.

TEACH Development, which was planning to turn Old Maui High School into a center for agriculture, technology and education, has ended its pursuit of the project, citing “strong opposition to nonlocal for-profit companies receiving public land.” Maui News.

Six cases of rat lungworm have been reported on Maui over the past three months — tripling the amount of cases the island has seen in the past decade, Maui District Health Officer Dr. Lorrin Pang said Tuesday. Maui News.

A recent case of a Maui woman contracting rat lungworm has brought attention to a disease that can be caught by eating from your yard. Maui Now.

Kauai

Four people claiming ownership of land by right of royal patent were arrested Tuesday in Wainiha following a demonstration to protect a Hawaiian burial site. Garden Island.

Four men were arrested Tuesday after blocking access to private property in Wainiha. Hawaii News Now.

Group aims to perpetuate Hawaiian culture, restore historical sites. Malama Koloa aims to perpetuate Hawaiian culture, restore historical sites. Garden Island.