Fallen police officer mourned, hunt still on for killer; Honolulu police to roll out body cameras next month; first wave of free wi-fi hotspots unveiled, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Bronson K. Kaliloa

The Big Island mourned the loss of Officer Bronson K. Kaliloa Wednesday, only the fifth police officer to be killed in the line of duty on Hawaii island in the last 100 years. Star-Advertiser.

Condolences to the family of fallen Puna patrol Officer Bronson Kaimana Kaliloa poured in Wednesday as word spread that the 10-year Hawaii Police Department veteran was shot and killed Tuesday night, allegedly by a man wanted on an arrest warrant. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii’s entire Big Island police force was on alert Wednesday for a suspect wanted in the killing of an officer during a traffic stop, including off-duty officers and some who returned to work from vacation and days off to join in the search. Associated Press.

5 Big Isle cops died in the line of duty since 1918. Star-Advertiser.

VIDEO: Police Chief Speaks After Officer Kaliloa Killed In Line Of Duty. Big Island Video News.

Tribute to Fallen Officer Bronson Kaliloa. Big Island Now.

Fallen officer remembered as proud father of 3 who loved to help others. KHON2.

How officials react to the fallen Big Island officer. KITV.

Authorities are still searching for a suspect accused of fatally shooting a Big Island police officer on Tuesday night. Hawaii News Now.

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The state says it has rolled out the first wave of more than 1,000 public Wi-Fi hot spots offering one hour of free service throughout Hawaii as a result of a deal with Spectrum. Star-Advertiser.

List and maps of designated hotspots can be found here.

Here’s Why These Rookie Candidates Decided To Get Into Politics. This year’s newcomers come from all over the political spectrum, and a variety of issues inspired them to run. Civil Beat.

State Workforce Development Council Wants to Hire Transitioning Military Members and Spouses. Military service members and their families make up more than 10 percent of Hawaii’s population and the state wants to hire those leaving the military to fill critical shortage jobs. Hawaii Public Radio.

Diversion programs are an alternative to incarceration. The idea is to divert people away from prisons and into treatment programs. They’re being used in a growing number of communities across the country and they’re generating some excitement here in Hawaii. Hawaii Public Radio.

Donors pick up $3.7 million tuition tab for University of Hawaii medical students. A trio of donors is aiming to tackle the physician shortage in an unusual way — they are picking up the entire tuition tab for nearly a third of the incoming class at the University of Hawaii Medical School. Star-Advertiser.

U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono introduced new legislation on Wednesday in an effort to protect native Hawaiian plants. Hawaii News Now.

Law proposed to improve missile alerts. Earlier this week, U.S. Sens. Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii, and John Thune, R-South Dakota, introduced the Reliable Emergency Alert Distribution Improvement (READI) Act of 2018. Garden Island.

University finds new life in the abyss. While manganese mining operations eye the Pacific Ocean floor as their potential next frontier, scientists have found the seafloor plains are anything but vacant. Garden Island.

Panda Express to hire 85 people in Hawaii. Panda Express is hiring through a weeklong Panda Career Event, starting today at 400 locations nationwide, including Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

HPD rolling out body cameras next month. The body cameras will be deployed to HPD stations in phases, going district by district, starting next month. KHON2.

City mistakenly overstates number of homeless getting permanent housing. Hawaii News Now.

Hoarder house no more: City hires contractor to clean Makiki eyesore. Hawaii News Now.

City will remove old vehicles, rubbish, overgrowth from Pensacola Street home. Star-Advertiser.

Can An Algae Supplement Turn Around A Struggling Hawaii Startup? Cardax, after burning through nearly $58 million, is finally making money and trying to expand sales on the mainland. Civil Beat.

An award-winning multi-million dollar organic farm in Waialua is now on the market. The five-acre lot is in Poamoho Estates in Waialua. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Finding safe lava viewing site proves challenging. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii searches for safe spots for people to see lava. Stunning images of Hawaii's erupting Kilauea volcano have captivated people around the world. But ironically it's nearly impossible for residents and visitors on the ground to see the lava - a fact that's squeezing the tourism-dependent local economy. Associated Press.

Planning efforts for temporary and permanent housing solutions were a focus of Tuesday night’s public meeting in Pahoa on the Kilauea eruption. Big Island Video News.

After nearly 11 weeks, eruptions are still claiming homes on the Big Island. Hawaii News Now.

Collapse explosion destroys structure at Leilani Estates. Star-Advertiser.

Tourists unfazed by lava bomb accident. Star-Advertiser.

RIMPAC exercises hit Hawaii Island. The U.S. Navy LCAC seemingly floats over the sand, kicking up a cloud of dust and mist as the hovercraft’s massive propellers spin, allowing it to turn on a pivot and make its way into the water at Kawaihae Harbor to gather soldiers and equipment from the USS Bonhomme Richard sitting some 3-5 miles offshore. West Hawaii Today.

Incumbent’s Surprise Withdrawal Opens Up Council Race. The departure leaves two newcomers who emphasize agriculture and sustainability facing off for the seat. Civil Beat.

Major components need to be added, attitudes shifted, as the fight against opioid misuse marches on. West Hawaii Today.

The Painful Demise Of A Big Island Charter School. Ka'u Learning Academy had its charter revoked after multiple violations, but there were plenty of red flags from the beginning. Civil Beat.

Maui

Familiar opponents went head to head over issues of pesticides, the Kihei high school, the minimum wage and lobbyist donations at a forum held for South and West Maui’s state Legislature candidates
Tuesday night at St. Theresa Church. Maui News.

Candidates for the South Maui state House seat took on topics of nearshore water quality, the growing visitor industry, use of the Piilani Promenade project site and other issues during a candidate forum held Tuesday night at St. Theresa Church. Maui News.

Mayor Alan Arakawa today announced that he has appointed Shayne Agawa as the new Deputy Director of the Maui Department of Water Supply, effective July 17, 2018. Maui Now.

Overcrowding worsens at Maui High — and relief is years away. The campus in Kahului is expecting about 2,023 students, including 600 freshmen. Hawaii News Now.

Newly Activated State Hotspots Offer 1 Hour of Free WiFi. Maui sites include business and community gathering places in Hana and Wailuku. Maui Now.

Kauai

State reps, challengers report contributions. Garden Island.

Charter school status in question. Kanuikapono Public Charter School and Learning Center is going before the Hawaii State Public Charter School Commission today to keep their doors open for the upcoming school year. Garden Island.

In response to April’s flash floods, Kauai Mayor Bernard Carvalho instituted emergency measures that included a ban on vacation rentals. Now the mayor is considering lifting the ban to address the housing crisis in the wake of the floods. Hawaii Public Radio.

A Goodfellow Bros. Inc. crew reeled in a record-breaking marlin from Kauai waters on Saturday during a trip to do some team building. The marlin weighed in at 1,073 pounds. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Ige, Tupola, pull ahead in poll, Trump support rises, Kauai mayor mulls suspension of vacation rental ban, 29-year-old wins $1M in Safeway contest, lava nears Big Island beach park, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. David Ige, U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa

The commanding 20-percentage-point lead that U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa enjoyed over Gov. David Ige in the Democratic primary for governor just four months ago has evaporated, with Ige pulling ahead one month before election day, according to a new Honolulu Star-Advertiser Hawaii Poll. Star-Advertiser.

New voter poll shows shift in support for gubernatorial candidates. Hawaii News Now.

New poll numbers are out in the race for governor, and they include some dramatic reversals. The new front-runners were once the underdogs. KITV.

A plurality of Democratic voters think Gov. David Ige is the most trustworthy candidate running this year and also rate him highest for leadership ability in the new Honolulu Star-Advertiser Hawaii Poll. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Governor’s Race: Clear Differences On Energy Policy. Among the biggest splits between the two Democratic contenders is whether natural gas should be part of the state’s energy future. Civil Beat.

Reaching the homestretch in her bid to upset Gov. David Ige in the Aug. 11 Democratic primary, U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa mused last week about what she calls a “fascinating statewide campaign” and on what she’s learned on the campaign trail, especially from millennials. Maui News.

State Rep. Andria Tupola has surged ahead of her opponent, attorney and former state Sen. John Carroll, in the Republican primary for governor, according to the latest Hawaii Poll. Star-Advertiser.

Support for President Donald Trump has risen to 91 percent among Hawaii Republicans — up from 73 percent in March — according to the latest Honolulu Star-Advertiser Hawaii Poll. Star-Advertiser.

OHA At-Large Candidates Have Raised Little Money So Far. None of the three incumbents — Lei Ahu Isa, Rowena Akana and John Waihee IV — reported spending any money this year and two are in debt. Civil Beat.

Australia adds to amphibious capabilities at RIMPAC. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Following The Money In Oahu Legislative Races. Fresh faces are raising and spending more than some longtime lawmakers with better name recognition. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation awarded a $25.9M construction contract for the first phase of its Kamehameha Highway resurfacing project to Road and Highway Builders LLC. Pacific Business News.

Kawananakoa records secret despite Supreme Court directive. Star-Advertiser.

Long-time TV newsman Jai Cunningham leaving to join HART. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu woman wins $1 million in Safeway contest. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu inflation slowed in the first half of the year as the state economy continued to see modest growth. Star-Advertiser.

The office vacancy rate in Downtown Honolulu reached an all-time high of 19.4 percent in the second quarter, and landlords looking to increase income are boosting parking rates for downtown spots, according to the second quarter office market report by CBRE. Pacific Business News.

Chick-fil-A plans Hawaii debut. A national fast-food chain largely known for a simple yet highly adored fried-chicken sandwich and commercials featuring cows plans its first Hawaii restaurant on Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Lava about half-mile from Isaac Hale park. The southern boundary of the flow front at the ocean entry of lava from Kilauea volcano’s lower East Rift Zone remained a little more than a half-mile away from Isaac Hale Beach Park and Pohoiki boat ramp on Sunday evening, according to Hawaii County Civil Defense. Tribune-Herald.

A small island has appeared offshore from where lava from fissure 8 enters the ocean. Tribune-Herald.

Pohoiki, Overflows, & The Tiny Lava Island. Big Island Video News.

Explosions, eruptions continue inundating the Big Island. Hawaii News Now.

The state Attorney General continues to provide no updates or shed further light on the status of a stolen drug evidence case involving the Hawaii County Police Department. West Hawaii Today.

Developers, businesses and single-home builders aren’t supposed to construct new cesspools anywhere in Hawaii, but a labor shortage within one Hawaii County department creates what is essentially a loophole, leaving open the possibility to do just that on the Big Island. West Hawaii Today.

Sudden shutdown displaces charter school’s students and teachers. Star-Advertiser.

Woman’s death from heroin overdose leads to dismantling of homeless camp. West Hawaii Today.

There’s one thing to understand right away about the root of the opioid crisis — there is no one thing. West Hawaii Today.

Once every decade, a commission is created to review and propose amendments to the county’s fundamental governing document, its county charter. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The best and not-so-best worlds:Looking at Maui’s hospital changeover, a year later. 1 year after hospital transition – growing pains: A more nimble hospital system is still facing employee and doctor recruitment challenges. Maui News.

Seabury Hall looking for new head of school. Board chooses not to renew contract of previous headmaster. Maui News.

Kauai

Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. is considering lifting a ban on legal transient vacation units on Kauai’s flood-­ravaged north shore if the owners agree to house some of the 15 families displaced when their homes were destroyed by severe flooding and landslides in mid-April. Star-Advertiser.

While coffee farmers throughout the state are getting their feet wet with new technology, Kauai Coffee Company is working on creating it. Garden Island.

The Mayor’s Advisory Committee for Treatment and Community Integration will host “Drug Addiction 101,” a community meeting at Kapaa Missionary Church from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Tuesday. Garden Island.

China spy ship watching RIMPAC, Hanabusa gaining on Ige in money race, fraudulent service pets could be fined, firefighter boyfriend pleads guilty in Kealoha case, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

RIMPAC exercise PC:Ordinary Seaman Justin Spinello/Canadian Armed Forces

China sends spy ship to RIMPAC. China was disinvited from the prestigious Rim of the Pacific exercise, but it has made an appearance anyway — dispatching a spy ship to international waters off Hawaii, the Navy said today. Star-Advertiser.

In her bid to unseat Gov. David Ige, U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa out-raised and out-spent him during the first six months of 2018. Star-Advertiser.

Ige, Hanabusa Power Up Their Fundraising. In the lieutenant governor’s race, state Sen. Josh Green has raised and spent the most cash. Civil Beat.

A bill that would fine people fraudulently representing their pets as service dogs has become law without Gov. David Ige’s signature. Star-Advertiser.

A new law in Hawaii now gives survivors of child sexual abuse more time to file claims against their abuser. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Federal Communications Commission announced new regulations to prevent false alerts from going out like the one that happened here in January. KHON2.

Oahu

Hawaii County Fire Department Battalion Chief Jesse Michael Ebersole pleaded guilty in federal court this afternoon to conspiring with deputy prosecutor Katherine Kealoha to lie about their affair to a federal grand jury and has agreed to cooperate in the prosecution of Kealoha and her husband, retired Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha. Star-Advertiser.

Katherine Kealoha’s Boyfriend Pleads Guilty To Federal Conspiracy. “I lied to the grand jury,” Jesse Ebersole says regarding his relationship with the city prosecutor. Civil Beat.

Firefighter: 'I lied' to grand jury about affair with ex-HPD chief's wife. Hawaii News Now.

Big Island firefighter pleads guilty to conspiracy charges. KITV.

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The families of the four victims that died in the high-rise Marco Polo fire filed a lawsuit today alleging that the deaths could have been prevented if the defendants had followed basic safety measures. Star-Advertiser.

Lawsuit filed over fatal Marco Polo fire. KITV.

Council OKs Property Tax Break For Active-Duty Military Personnel. If signed by the mayor, the exemption would cost Honolulu an estimated $1 million a year. Civil Beat.

City officials relocate 23 homeless people ahead of park maintenance project. Hawaii News Now.

City officials say they got 23 people off the streets of Oahu Wednesday night. KHON2.

Office tower to become affordable housing. An abandoned office tower eyesore in downtown Honolulu is slated for a face-lift, but its “pimples” will remain under a plan to convert the building into affordable housing. Star-Advertiser.

Search For Other Beneficiaries to Hawaiian Heiress’ Trust Will Continue. A judge delayed deciding whether to include a new board of directors for Abigail Kawananakoa’s charity in the battle for control of her $215 million trust. Civil Beat.

Arch enemies': Princess Kawananakoa's attorneys denounce foundation's board. Hawaii News Now.

Biki expansion plans run into possible roadblock in Waikiki. Some residents near Kapiolani Park and Diamond Head want Biki to backpedal on its expansion plans for the area. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Lava has consumed Kua O Ka La charter school and Ahalanui County Beach Park. KHON2.

Lava consumed Ahalanui Beach Park on Wednesday evening, destroying yet another beloved Puna destination. Tribune-Herald.

Loss of school stings: Destruction of Kua O Ka La ‘utterly devastating’. Tribune-Herald.

The county’s purchase of a $2.7 million Vacationland parcel from a politically connected family is ongoing, even after the land was made worthless by lava inundation. West Hawaii Today.

Businesses and residents affected by lava on the Big Island have received over $10 million in disaster assistance loans from the Small Business Association, officials announced on Thursday. Hawaii News Now.

Council Proposal Urges State To Name Fissure 8. Councilwoman Sue Lee Loy has introduced a resolution asking the State Board on Geographic Names to begin the consultation process. Big Island Video News.

Does Anyone Really Miss The Puna Geothermal Plant? Hawaii Electric Light Co. has plenty of power despite the shutdown of the plant which was damaged by lava. Civil Beat.

USGS employs high-tech laser mapping at Kilauea’s summit. Tribune-Herald.

Changes are planned at Pohakuloa Training Area as the U.S. Army moves forward with a $210 million overhaul. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Kihei developers seek to go back to the future. Latest proposal for Piilani Promenade project area more in line with 1995 plans. Maui News.

Representative Justin H. Woodson of Maui says the recent approval of the Kahului Civic Center Mixed-Use Project and multi-family rental housing units by the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation Board of Directors is a positive move toward providing more affordable housing. Maui Now.

All Maui County DMV's will be closed Friday due to staff training. KHON2.

Kauai

America, Japan forces work together in historic missile operation. The Japanese Type 12 surface-to-ship missile, SSM12, didn’t launch when it was supposed to on Thursday during a historic multi-domain exercise at Pacific Missile Range Facility. Garden Island.

A vision for Kauai’s children to accomplish their dreams on Kauai is why Billy De Costa is running for the Kauai County Council. Garden Island.

By a unanimous vote at the Kauai County Farm Bureau annual meeting, Johnny Gordines repeats as the Kauai County Farm Bureau president. Garden Island.

Supreme Court: Hawaii B&B must allow gay couples; lava takes charter school, beach park; Honolulu City Council flouts Sunshine Law; smoking, vaping, chewing tobacco banned at universities; more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Diane Cervelli and Taeko Bufford were denied by B&B PC: Lambda Legal

Hawaii Supreme Court sides with lesbian couple in B&B case. A state appeals court ruling that a bed and breakfast discriminated by denying a room to two women because they’re gay will stand after the state’s high court declined to take up the case. Associated Press.

6 candidates for Hawaii's First Congressional District share stance on local issues. Ed Case, Doug Chin, Donna Mercado Kim, Kaniela Ing, Beth Fukumoto and Ernie Martin. KITV.

State Sen. Donna Mercado Kim and Honolulu City Council Chairman Ernie Martin blasted government bureaucracy and regulatory agencies such as the state Land Use Commission for hamstringing development in Hawaii at a forum for congressional candidates sponsored by local building and real estate trade groups. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Politicians Turn Digital Ads Into A Fundraising Bonanza. Federal candidates, from Tulsi Gabbard to Kaniela Ing, are spreading their messages across the U.S. in the attempt to build name recognition and raise money. Civil Beat.

Challenger criticizes Tulsi Gabbard for avoiding debates prior to primary election. Hawaii News Now.

Smoking and tobacco use, including vaping, is officially banned on all 10 of the University of Hawaii’s campuses under a new law. Star-Advertiser.

All University of Hawaii campuses and properties are now smoke- and tobacco-free. A new law prohibiting smoking and tobacco use on UH premises was passed by the Legislature in May and signed this week by Gov. David Ige. Tribune-Herald.

As of July 10,2018, tobacco use is banned at all 10 University of Hawaii campuses statewide, and the new rules include e-cigarettes and chewing tobacco. KHON2.

Sales at Hawaii’s six medical marijuana dispensaries totaled $6.7 million in the past 10 months, and their earnings are likely to grow with two changes to the state’s cannabis law. Star-Advertiser.

Department of Health to Implement New Retail Medical Cannabis Rules. Hawaii’s six operating retail Medical Cannabis Dispensaries are now selling products that function like inhalers or nebulizers. Hawaii Public Radio.

State to implement changes to medical cannabis law. KHON2.

For the military, including Rim of the Pacific exercise participants, there’s a whole lot of emergency, disaster response and mass casualty practice going on this week. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii mac nut industry cracks $50 million in sales. Rising prices for macadamia nuts helped Hawaii farmers generate record revenue last year, according to a new federal report. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Office of Elections Conducts Drive-Thru Voter Registration. The State Office of Elections is conducting drive-by voter registration on Oahu, the Big Island, Maui and Kauai. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Attorney General’s office is proposing fines of more than $135,000 against two nonprofits for multiple alleged violations of the state’s charitable solicitation laws. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Mayor’s Islandwide Crackdown On The Homeless Rolled Out For Council. Two measures from Kirk Caldwell targeting homeless people in public places receive initial approval. Civil Beat.

City Council Ignores Open Meetings Law To Hear Bike-Sharing Bill. Chairman Ernie Martin convinced his colleagues to hear the bill one day after it was introduced. A minimum six-day notice is required. Civil Beat.

City Releases Plan for Ala Moana Park Renovations. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu's shopping bag ban could be having an unintended consequence. Businesses say the new law makes it makes it much tougher to spot thieves. Hawaii News Now.

Families of victims killed in Marco Polo fire to file lawsuit. On July 14, 2017, Britt Reller, Melba Dilly, and Joann Kuwata were killed after the fire ripped through their apartments. Marilyn Van Gieson died several weeks later after suffering smoke inhalation. KHON2.

One year later, we relive the Marco Polo fire that claimed lives and changed laws. KITV.

Hawaiian Heiress’s Charity Board Heads to Court In $215 Million Trust Case. A new board of directors for Princess Abigail Kawananakoa’s charity wants to be included in ongoing battle for control of her trust. Civil Beat.

A mountain of trash and a broken restroom. Welcome to Keehi Lagoon Beach Park. People who frequent an Oahu park say the city needs to take better care of the scenic spot. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii Community Development Authority board of directors on Wednesday voted to approve the appointment of Aedward Los Banos as executive director of the state agency responsible for overseeing development in Kakaako, Kalealoa and Heeia on Oahu. Pacific Business News.

Servco Pacific Inc. held a blessing ceremony to mark the completion of Hawaii's first publicly accessible hydrogen station, located at the its corporate offices in Mapunapuna. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

A popular Puna beach park that was home to a unique warm pond, as well as beloved public charter school facility, were both taken by lava on Wednesday evening. Big Island Video News.

After weeks of steadily flowing to the ocean in a self-contained channel, lava from fissure 8 began spilling over into Leilani Estates, destroying more homes in the subdivision, according to Hawaii County officials. Star-Advertiser.

The community has anxiously watched and waited as lava from fissure 8 inched toward the ocean — and closed in on the Kua O Ka La Public Charter School. Hawaii News Now.

County approaches Shipman about housing for evacuees. Hawaii County is looking beyond public lands for a potential land swap with Puna residents who lost their homes to lava. Tribune-Herald.

Incidents add to stress at lava shelters. During the 10 weeks since emergency evacuation centers opened in a hurry to house people chased from their homes by the Kilauea eruption, Hawaii County police were called 118 times to the sprawling Pahoa shelter, and another 21 times to the much smaller shelter in Keaau. Star-Advertiser.

With concerns over looting growing on Hawaii island, police are urging homeowners and renters within the eruption zone to report apparent looting as soon as possible. Hawaii News Now.

Work began this week to upgrade the long-delayed Kuawa ball fields in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

A two-vehicle head-on collision late Tuesday afternoon on Daniel K. Inouye Highway, also known as Saddle Road, killed a highly regarded scientist and critically injured a well-known local musician. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

It is unclear how much of the remaining $46,000 of the $100,000 county grant awarded to Council Member Alika Atay’s executive assistant will be disbursed, the county Office of Economic Development director told a council committee Wednesday. Maui News.

Charges were dismissed Wednesday against a Haleakala telescope protester when a judge ruled that more than six months had passed without the defendant’s case going to trial. Maui News.

A three-word agenda item involving “proposed rule amendments” that the state Office of Information Practices warned might run afoul of the Sunshine Law was deleted by the liquor commission from Wednesday’s meeting. Maui News.

The National Science Foundation Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope takes shape as work continues atop Haleakala. Maui News.

KCA will present candidates forum. Maui News.

Kauai

Affordable housing plan rejected. Fiscal responsibility framed the Kauai County Council’s Wednesday decision to reject placing a charter amendment on the November ballot that would have allocated 3 percent of real property tax revenues to affordable housing. Garden Island.

The Kauai County Council Wednesday voted down a proposed $475,000 infusion into The Kauai Bus to expand weekend services. Garden Island.

Mayor Bernard P. Carvalho Jr. signed a third supplementary emergency proclamation on Wednesday for the County of Kauai in order to continue relief efforts for damages sustained during the April flood. Garden Island.

Lanai

The OHA Board of Trustees will hold a public meeting on Lanai on Thurs., July 12, 2018. Maui Now.

Szigeti out as tourism chief, 'tough love' for Honolulu homeless, media tour Halemaumau crater as Kilauea eruption persists, US EEOC sues HMSA, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Tourism Authority CEO George Szigeti © 2018 All Hawaii News

The Hawaii Tourism Authority board voted today to fire the agency’s president and CEO George Szigeti without cause. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Tourism Authority leader leaving amid growing scrutiny. The authority's board voted unanimously Thursday to terminate "without cause" George Szigeti, the authority's president and CEO for the past three years. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Tourism Authority leader on contract termination: 'I'm going to respect that decision'. KHON2.

Thursday marked the final Hawaii Tourism Authority board meeting for departing members Denise Yamaguchi, Donna Domingo and Gerald de Mello. Pacific Business News.

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The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission is suing Hawaii Medical Service Association for discriminating against a group of disabled workers. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's largest health insurance provider is facing a class-action lawsuit after denying intermittent leave to employees with disabilities without discussing other options. Hawaii News Now.

HMSA, Hawaii's largest medical insurance provider, being sued for denying medical leave to employees. KHON2.

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Sex abuse victims from decades ago will have another chance to file claims. Gov. David Ige will not veto Senate Bill 2719, which means it will become law on July 9. Hawaii News Now.

Hirono Bill Aims To Strengthen Unions. Hawaii Sen. Mazie Hirono was joined by Democratic leaders a day after the Supreme Court ruled against organized labor to try to shore up membership. Civil Beat.

RIMPAC pursues interoperability. During this year’s Rim of the Pacific exercise, it’s possible for a Japanese soldier to work for an Australian battalion commander who works for a U.S. Marine Corps commander who works for an Australian task group commander who works for a Chilean maritime component commander. Star-Advertiser.

RIMPAC 2018 has officially begun — without a familiar face. China was originally invited to the exercise, until the nation militarized contested islands. Hawaii News Now.

25,000 Participants Arriving in Hawaii for 2018 RIMPAC. Maui Now.

Retired Adm. Harry Harris, former head of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command on Oahu, was confirmed by the U.S. Senate to serve as the U.S. ambassador to South Korea, U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz said. Star-Advertiser.

A new report released today by the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism shows that Hawaii’s economy will grow at 1.7% per year between 2016 and 2045. Maui Now.

Hawaii’s economy, measured by real gross domestic product, will grow at 1.7 percent per year between 2016 and 2045, according to a new report by the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Mayor to introduce 'tough love' bills aimed at getting homeless people off sidewalks. Hawaii News Now.

Caldwell Wants To Make Sit-Lie Ban Islandwide At All Hours. The existing bans for sidewalks in business areas are insufficient to address public homelessness, the Honolulu mayor said. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell is proposing two new bills that redoubles the city’s efforts to clear the homeless and others off city sidewalks. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell is ramping up efforts to clear the homeless from the sidewalks. He's asking the city council to approve to new bills that would expand the sit-lie ban across Oahu. KHON2.

New rules keep affordable housing affordable in Kakaako. KHON2.

Governor Approves HCDA Affordable Housing Rules. Governor David Ige approved new rules today to guide future development in Kakaako. Hawaii Public Radio.

The 15 cent bag fee goes into effect this Sunday. Unless you want to fork over the extra change at check-out, make sure to bring your own bag. KHON2.

There is a proposal to increase fares for the Honolulu city bus and TheHandi-Van. The Honolulu Rate Commission says fares should go up 25 cents in the beginning of next year. KHON2.

The police are offering a different kind of service in Chinatown: Health care. Hawaii News Now.

More enforcement coming to the Fourth of July Waikiki 'floatilla'. KITV.

Former cop admits to staging burglary and burning own car. Former Honolulu police officer Travis E. Copeland pleaded guilty in state court today to two counts of insurance fraud. Star-Advertiser.

Buzz’s Original Steak House in Pearl City will not reopen following a forced shutdown due to health code violations earlier this month. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Volcano park’s future 'a huge unknown'. Halemaumau Crater at the Kilauea summit is double its former size and continuing to expand at a rate unseen in modern times, according to scientists who accompanied journalists to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park today. Star-Advertiser.

Summit’s unprecedented change, volcanic activity to engross scientists for years to come. Tribune-Herald.

Inside the park at Waldron Ledge, officials gave a comprehensive update on Kilauea Volcano and the status of the National Park. Big Island Video News.

Drastic changes at summit reshape future of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. KHON2.

Kilauea eruption changes much: landscape, park operation, science's understanding. KITV.

PHOTOS: Take a tour of Kilauea's dramatically changed summit. Hawaii News Now.

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Big Isle tourism drop-off raises concerns. Tourism numbers were up statewide in May, but the Hawaii island market is finally showing the softening that the visitor industry has been dreading since the Kilauea eruption began May 3. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island tourism numbers remained reasonable through the month of May, but it will be June and the summer months to follow that tell the tale of Kilauea volcano’s true impact on the county’s most lucrative industry. West Hawaii Today.

Spending increases offset drop in Big Island arrivals last month. Pacific Business News.

Tallying The Growing Cost Of A Multimillion-Dollar Eruption. Taxpayers have spent nearly $10 million, not counting damage to roads and parks. The value of private property lost, damaged or isolated is $372 million. Civil Beat.

Sen. Mazie Hirono successfully included a provision in the 2018 Senate Farm Bill that would allow volcano-impacted farmers to retroactively apply for coverage under the Non-insured Crop Assistance Program. Big Island Now.

Police: Persistent claims about looting are mostly just rumors. Tribune-Herald.

Fresh lava continues to block Kapoho residents from entering their homes. Star-Advertiser.

Mental Health Is Another Casualty In The Ongoing Volcanic Eruption. The state health department is staffing shelters and opening clinics to help people affected by the disaster. Civil Beat.

Supreme Court overturns gag order in case of child who died in foster care. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Licensees critical of liquor department, panel. Testifiers cite fear of retribution, changing rule interpretations; audit is underway. Maui News.

Visitors to Maui County spent a total of $403.1 million in May 2018, an increase of 13.7 percent compared to last year, according to preliminary statistics released today by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Maui Now.

With their contract with the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa set to end, union members from Unite Here! Local 5 are joined by retirees and supporters for a sign-waving event along Honoapiilani Highway in Lahaina near the Lahaina Cannery Mall on Wednesday afternoon. Maui News.

Kauai

Tourism reaching new heights on Kauai. Despite a flooding disaster in April that devastated much of Kauai’s North Shore, tourists kept coming. Garden Island.

Resurfacing continues through the summer near the Coco Palms corridor. Garden Island.


Molokai

Molokai residents are on high alert after a coqui frog was discovered in Kalae on June 20. Hawaii News Now.

Employee behind false missile alert outed, officials react to Trump v. Hawaii travel ban loss, state abortion info law in jeopardy, public-private rail partnership mulled, lava viewing area likely, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

HI-EMA informational briefing © 2018 All Hawaii News

The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency has “inadvertently” released the name of the so-called button pusher, Scott Harrison, the employee they blamed for the incident and later fired, who sent a false ballistic missile alert Jan. 13 that plunged Hawaii residents and visitors into 38 minutes of uncertainty. Star-Advertiser.

Five months after a false missile alert was sent to all Hawaii cellphones, the state has released a trove of emails related to the incident. Hawaii News Now.

Senate Votes To Give Missile Alert Authority To Feds. Legislation being pushed by Hawaii’s federal delegation would take the task of warning about incoming missiles away from the state. Civil Beat.

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Hawaii’s congressional and government leaders reacted with dismay at the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to uphold President Donald Trump’s third version of a travel ban for individuals from several mostly Muslim countries. Star-Advertiser.

The U.S. Supreme Court’s Tuesday decision in the case of Trump v. Hawaii, which affirmed broad executive powers to restrict or prohibit travel from majority-Muslim countries for national security purposes, inspired universal rebuke among Hawaii politicians and activist groups. West Hawaii Today.

Lt. Gov. calls U.S. Supreme Court ruling on Trump travel ban "hurtful". Hawaii led the nation contesting President Donald Trump's revised travel ban. KITV.

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A Hawaii law aimed at making religious-based pregnancy centers give women information about abortion as an option could be deemed unconstitutional, following a U.S. Supreme Court decision Tuesday that said a similar law enacted in California likely violates the First Amendment’s protection of free speech. Star-Advertiser.

Supreme Court rules in favor of pro-life groups; The decision may apply to Hawaii laws. Hawaii News Now.

How Hawaii Governor Candidates Would Handle Burgeoning Pension Debt. Whoever wins the race for governor will have to balance a budget that includes billion-dollar payments for retired state workers. Civil Beat.

The two leading Republican candidates for governor of Hawaii will square off Wednesday night in a Hawaii News Now debate. The event will feature state. Rep. Andria Tupola and former state Sen. John Carroll, and touch on a host of issues facing the islands. Hawaii News Now.

RIMPAC expected to boost Hawaii's economy. The big guns have arrived for Rim of the Pacific exercises known as RIMPAC. KITV.

Thousands of sailors streamed off warships Tuesday while tons of food was loaded back on as Pearl Harbor continues to fill up ahead of big Rim of the Pacific war games. Star-Advertiser.

Hotel performance in May helped keep industry growth strong during the first five months of 2018. Star-Advertiser.

Uncertain Future for High Speed Internet Access in Hawaii. Hawaii Public Radio.

Farm-to-school program to be implemented at all 256 public schools. Hawaii News Now.

New law requires change to public school curriculum. Lawmakers and educators want more students to learn about computer science, so they will be better equipped in the future. This also means teachers need to be trained in the field. KHON2.

Why Hawaii Doesn’t Publish An Official Voters’ Guide. In many other states, pamphlets with information about candidates and issues on the ballot are sent to voters before an election. Civil Beat.

A new report says Hawaii is one of the best states in the nation for LGBTQ families to live in. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation is inching closer toward finding a private partner to help complete the $8.165 billion rail project despite lingering reservations by some HART board members. Star-Advertiser.

New Dialysis Clinics Finally Open. The facilities have been mainly idle for years while waiting for state inspections. Civil Beat.

An Oahu family of four bringing in $93,300 or less this year is considered "low income" under newly-released U.S. Housing and Urban Development guidelines. These guidelines are used to determine who can qualify for affordable and subsidized housing programs. Hawaii News Now.

The state is investigating the death of 50 to 100 baby hammerhead sharks found on land near the La Mariana Sailing Club at Keehi Lagoon, according to officials. Star-Advertiser.

Experts ask for tougher laws after baby hammerhead sharks found dead near Keehi Lagoon. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Lava viewing area on the table; county also receives requests to reopen roads. As the lower Puna eruption continues, the county is evaluating ways to safely reopen roads in the area and even allow people to view the lava. Tribune-Herald.

Puna Residents Set Up This Awesome Center For Volcano Refugees. With no end to the disaster in sight, the “Hub” serves up food, supplies, hot showers, massages and a chance to talk story. Civil Beat.

The Bodacious Women of Pahoa are living up to their name by running a relief center and other services for Puna residents affected by the Kilauea eruption, while making sure their own community is prepared for the next calamity. Star-Advertiser.

The U.S. Department of Labor has given the State of Hawaii  permission to offer Disaster Unemployment Assistance in Hawaii County as part of the joint state-federal response to the ongoing seismic activity and volcanic eruption on Hawaii Island. Maui Now.

Incumbent state Sen. Lorraine Inouye and challenger Heather Kimball faced off Monday night in a wide-ranging forum touching on repairing the Big Island’s post-eruption economy, shortages of doctors and teachers, cesspools, money in politics and making government more efficient. West Hawaii Today.

Glenn Gray, principal of Holualoa Elementary School, will take over as principal of Kealakehe High School on July 2, the Department of Education confirmed Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

The University of Hawaii at Hilo will establish a new academic college when the Division of Natural Sciences, School of Nursing and Department of Kinesiology and Exercise Sciences merge to become the College for Natural and Health Sciences on July 1. Tribune-Herald.

Temporary canopies approved as Hilo Farmers Market makes progress to comply with codes. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Rep. Kaniela Ing Apologizes for Campaign Violations, Vows to Move Forward. Maui Now.

Charges are pending against an alleged poacher of rare Haleakala silversword plants. Star-Advertiser.

Charges are pending against two visitors to Haleakala National Park after they were accused of picking the rare silversword plant. Hawaii News Now.

Haleakala National Park Law Enforcement Rangers and Maui Police Department recovered rare Haleakala silversword plants or “ahinahina” that had been removed by a visitor from Haleakala’s summit.  Maui Now.

Kauai

While people on Oahu set to the streets on Tuesday opposing the Supreme Court’s decision backing President Donald Trump’s travel ban, Kauai folks say it’s more fodder for Saturday’s Families Belong Together rally. Garden Island.

All systems were restored at the County of Kauai’s Drivers License Division and Motor Vehicle Registration Tuesday. Garden Island.

Molokai

Maui Electric crews have restored all power to customers on Molokai after an outage Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

RIMPAC war games start this week, Sierra Club endorses Ige, vaping cannabis coming, $44M bonds for Honolulu rail, volcano just won't stop, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson departs San Diego in preparation for the ship’s participation in the Rim of the Pacific Exercise 2018. PC: Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Z.A. Landers

Rim of the Pacific, or RIMPAC, the world's largest maritime exercise coming to Hawaii, along with participants from 26 nations. The world's largest international maritime exercise kicks off this week, and large vessels will be sailing to Oahu as soon as Monday. Hawaii News Now.

The Sierra Club of Hawaii on Sunday endorsed Gov. David Ige for a second term during a sign- waving event at the state Capitol. Star-Advertiser.

The Sierra Club of Hawaii announced Sunday their endorsement of Governor David Ige for a second term. KHON2.

The Sierra Club of Hawaii announced it's endorsing Governor David Ige for re-election. KITV.
Marijuana dispensaries are preparing to sell cannabis oil cartridges starting next week so that patients can legally take the drug through vaping. Star-Advertiser.

Commentary: Campaign violations dim Kaniela Ing’s once-bright future. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Caldwell Wants To Sell $44 Million In City Bonds For Rail. The Honolulu mayor said there’s a tight time line to gain council approval and start funneling city money to the project’s construction. Civil Beat.

A $1 billion radar to track what are expected to be increasingly complex ballistic and hypersonic missile threats to Hawaii may be positioned high on Kaena Point, prompting questions about its visual impact and access to hiking trails. Star-Advertiser.

Retired General’s New Mission: Prepare Central Oahu For Disaster. Braden Sakai thinks it’s time for Mililani to catch up with other communities that have emergency plans. Civil Beat.

Department of Parks requests to hire temporary grounds keepers to help maintain city parks. KHON2.

A proposal for two more 400-foot-tall buildings next to the Pacific Guardian Tower at Kapiolani Boulevard and Keeaumoku Street is the latest project in the area to seek approval from the Honolulu City Council to build higher than currently allowed. Star-Advertiser.

Civil War guns spark Hawaii classroom conflict. Mililani Middle School teacher Garret Ogata likes to make history feel real, so when he covers the American Civil War, he shares relics dating from that conflict: letters penned by soldiers on the battlefield, photographs, even antique firearms. Star-Advertiser.

‘Slap On The Wrist’ For The Diamond Head Hawker. Park officials said the small fine is still a good step because it means prosecutors are taking illegal park activities seriously. Civil Beat.

Providing homeless people with rides to shelters played a key role in a new effort that got 56 people from Waikiki to Chinatown off of the streets between April 4 and June 13. Star-Advertiser.

Special court helps direct homeless to services rather than jail or fines. Honolulu’s 18-month-old Community Outreach Court — aimed at low-level, nonviolent offenses committed by homeless people — doesn’t have the feel of a typical criminal proceeding. Star-Advertiser.

Why This Highway Plan Is The ‘Holy Grail’ Of Bicycle Safety Projects. Some residents question whether the benefit of wider shoulders between Mililani and Waipio outweighs the loss of a traffic lane. Civil Beat.

Law Enforcement’s Struggle To Help Honolulu’s Mentally Ill. Even with assistance from police psychologists, some emotionally disturbed residents keep officers returning again and again. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

There were two collapse explosions at Kilauea’s summit this weekend that released high energy but very little ash, according to the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory. Star-Advertiser.

No end in sight: Explosions, eruptions continue rattling the Big Island. Hawaii News Now.

Lava has blocked road access to favorite shoreline sites. Star-Advertiser.

State parks chief: ‘Pele is in control now’. Lava Tree State Monument and MacKenzie State Recreation Area “are closed and will likely remain so for a very long time,” the state parks chief said Sunday. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Eruption – The Tourism Tumult. When 2018 began, Hawaii Island's visitor industry was projecting big numbers. But then in May, everything changed. Big Island Video News.

With lava flows imploding the county budget, there’s a lot to worry about back home. But that hasn’t kept six of the nine County Council members from taking a few days off for the annual Hawaii State Association of Counties conference, held Thursday through Saturday in Waikiki. West Hawaii Today.

Commentary: State leaders should be devising plans now to help volcano-affected businesses recover. Star-Advertiser.

Construction of a permanent federal inspection station at Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole is expected to get underway next spring — and for substantially less than anticipated. West Hawaii Today.

Officials to discuss elevated risk cesspools pose, gather community feedback. West Hawaii Today.

An agreement between government agencies and a Hawaii private school system aims to protect and aid the recovery of 32 endangered plant and animal species on the Big Island. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

Maui Panel Discusses Quality of Life Issues Ahead of 2018 Election. Maui Now.

A new senior center and living and rehabilitation facilities could be in the works at the Kahului Community Center Park. Maui News.

Kahului Airport work in progress. Maui News.

Hearings on Young Brothers rate hikes set. The Public Utilities Commission will be holding public meetings next month on Maui, Molokai and Lanai to gather public testimony as it considers its final decision. Maui News.

Six Maui County companies received a share of $930,680 in grants awarded through the Hawaii Technology Development Corp. Manufacturing Assistance Program. Maui News.

Kauai

CCK to host election forums. The Community Coalition Kauai, in co-sponsorship with the Hawaii Alliance for Progressive Action, announces its series of candidate forums that will start Thursday. Garden Island.

Kekaha resident and retired Army Ranger Harold Vidinha is running for Kauai County Council because he said people discuss problems among themselves, but nothing ever happens to bring forth change. Garden Island.

Kauai is expected to approach 70 percent renewable generation by the end of 2019 after receiving approval this week from the state Public Utilities Commission for development of a 19.3-megawatt solar facility along with a 70 megawatt-hour battery energy storage system. Star-Advertiser.

An estimated $6.5 million in Capital Improvement Project funding was authorized by the Hawaii Legislature for fiscal year 2019, including three critical projects on Kauai that will protect approximately 4,000 acres of priority watersheds through fencing. Maui Now.

The Hawaii Technology Development Corporation recently awarded $930,680 in Manufacturing Assistance Program grant funds to 29 Hawaii- based manufacturing companies. Garden Island.