Navy headed to court on Red Hill fuel tanks, Deedy to be retried for assault, cop killer accomplices sentenced, dog rescued from lava tube, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

In this August 2007 photo, then Secretary of the Navy Donald Winter tours the Red Hill Underground Fuel Storage Facility.
PC: Chief Mass Communication Specialist Shawn P. Eklund / U.S. Navy

Sierra Club Sues To Stop Automatic Approval Of Red Hill Fuel Tanks. Department of Health permits are automatically approved if officials don’t take action on them within 180 days. Civil Beat.

In Shift, Navy Says It's Weighing Double-Walled Red Hill Fuel Tanks.  The U.S. Navy is now considering double-wall tanks for its fuel storage in Red Hill and says it will relocate the facility if that upgrade can't be done. Hawaii Public Radio.

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Naval Air Museum intends to fight ‘wrongful eviction’ from Kalaeloa Aiport. At the Naval Air Museum Barbers Point, old military vehicles and aircraft stand at attention waiting on visitors and tour groups that visit the Kalaeloa Airport. Hawaii News Now.

Air museum is being evicted over contract issues. A nonprofit air museum that opened 20 years ago and was built on Naval Air Station Barbers Point’s 57-year history is being evicted from state airport land over long-standing contract issues that led to a running dispute with the state Department of Transportation Airports Division. Star-Advertiser.

Naval Air Museum Barbers Point believes it's wrongfully evicted by the state. The non-profit’s administrators also pushing for discussions with the state towards a solution. KITV.

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A top CEO’s prescription for Hawaii’s tourism-driven economy: It’s time to diversify. Ajay Banga believes investments in Hawaii’s technology sector is important and logical because it does not need geographic proximity to enable success. Hawaii News Now.

Searching For New Ways To Keep Hawaii’s Mentally Ill Out Of Jails And ERs. At a mental health summit Wednesday, the judiciary and state agencies explored options for pre-trial diversions. Civil Beat.

Hawaii School System Convenes First-Ever Data Retreat. School officials and state board members got a deep look at statewide student performance, but some left wanting more. Civil Beat.

Sen. Laura Thielen Won’t Seek Re-Election To Hawaii Senate. Thielen said, “I’m going to end my time as a legislator, and get back to the doing.” Civil Beat.

Oahu

Caldwell reaffirms support for Ala Moana playground. Mayor Kirk Caldwell on Thursday doubled down on his support for a playground at Ala Moana Regional Park, issuing a statement defending the plan and the nonprofit created to find funding for the project. Star-Advertiser.

Commentary: Backers Of $3M Ala Moana Playground Carry Lots Of Clout. Donors linked to the non-profit group promoting the project have been large campaign contributors to the mayor and many council members. Civil Beat.

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Christopher Deedy can be re-tried but only for assault. Federal agent Christopher Deedy can be tried a third time in connection with a fight that led to the fatal shooting of a local man in Waikiki 8 years ago. KHON2.

State can retry Deedy for assault, court rules. A federal appeals court says the state can take U.S. State Department Special Agent Christopher Deedy to trial a third time for the November 2011 shooting death of Kollin Elderts in a Waikiki McDonald’s restaurant, but not for manslaughter. Star-Advertiser.

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Coast Guard Responding To Cargo Ship Oil Spill In Honolulu Harbor. Officials said about 120 gallons of oil have been recovered so far. Civil Beat.

Officials Responding To Oil Spill From Cargo Ship In Hawaii. The U.S. Coast Guard says a cargo ship has spilled oil into Honolulu Harbor. Associated Press.

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Marine Corps wants to put up a retaining wall in Ewa Beach. The Marine Corps shooting range in Ewa Beach is eroding and in order to stop the damage caused by the ocean, it wants to build a retaining wall. KITV.

Sex assault conviction of wrestling coach thrown out by Hawaii Supreme Court in a case that sheds light on polygraph testing. The Hawaii Supreme Court has thrown out the sexual assault conviction of a wrestling coach accused of inappropriately touching the buttocks of a 14-year-old female wrestler at a tournament in 2012 in a case that could have lasting effects. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Guilty verdict reached on 4 counts in Waiki accomplice trial. Guilty verdicts were handed down Thursday for three defendants accused of aiding cop killer Justin Waiki following a six-week trial. West Hawaii Today.

Dirty recycling dooms program. Garbage in, garbage out. Hawaii County’s recycling program fell apart not because of a lack of markets, but because of dirty garbage dumped into the two-bin system, the Hawaii County Council learned Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

Koa forest project proposed for ranch land. The state Board of Land and Natural Resources is considering approval of a project that would convert pasture land in Waimea into a koa forest over a span of 50 years. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Island businesses ‘somber’ over TMT stalemate at Mauna Kea. Hawaii island’s business community says they’re spooked by what could be an economic warning sign. Hawaii News Now.

Ambient Air Quality Data Website Updated. Kilauea is not erupting and monitoring data have shown no significant changes over the past week, the U.S. Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory reports. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Maui police increasing hiring efforts as more vacancies open up. The Maui Police Department is upping their recruitment efforts because their number of vacancies keeps growing each year due to retirements and officers moving. KHON2.

Maui case gets day in high court. U.S. Supreme Court hears arguments in Lahaina injection wells caseLawyers on both sides of the longstanding Lahaina injection wells case delivered their oral arguments Wednesday before the U.S. Supreme Court, whose ultimate ruling could determine how the federal Clean Water Act is used to regulate pollution to protected waters. Maui News.

Water Conservation Urged in West Maui Amid Ongoing Dry Conditions. West Maui residents and businesses are being urged to conserve water amid ongoing dry, hot conditions and low surface water flows at treatment facilities in Lahaina and Mahinahina. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kauai police officer accused of domestic abuse. A Kauai police officer is on paid administrative leave following his arrest on suspicion of abuse of a family or household member. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor, others promote walking to school for improved health, learning. About a dozen Kilauea School students, parents, school and public-safety officials joined Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami Thursday along a new route recently created to better guarantee the safety of students walking to school. Garden Island.

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Hawaii botanist rescues pup trapped for six days in 81-foot pit in Kauai forest. When a one-year-old hunting dog named Orange fell 81 feet into a shaft in the Lihue-Koloa Forest Reserve on Kauai, it was a state botanist who came to his rescue. Star-Advertiser.

A dog named Orange beat the odds thanks to a rescuer in orange. A 1-year-old hunting dog named “Orange” fell into 81-foot deep hole in the Koloa section of the Lihue-Koloa Forest Reserve last Saturday. Hawaii News Now.

Botanist Rescues Dog Trapped in 81-Foot Hole on Kaua‘i. A one-year-old Catahoula hunting dog, Orange, fell into the pit last Saturday, Nov. 2. Big Island Now.
Botanist descends 81 feet to rescue dog. The one-year-old Catahoula fell into the pit Saturday. Garden Island.

Kahuku wind farm protesters arrested as equipment moves to site, wetter than average winter, lawmakers debate flavored e-cigs, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Double rainbow in Hilo ©2019 All Hawaii News

Above-average rainfall and temperatures coming this winter. The National Weather Service announced Thursday that the islands likely will experience above-average rainfall this winter along with warmer-than-normal temperatures. Star-Advertiser.

NOAA Forecast: ‘Above Average’ Rainfall For Hawaii Through April. As such, existing drought is expected to be eliminated by the end of the rainy season. Civil Beat.

National Weather Service: Expect 'Wetter Than Average' Winter. According to the National Weather Service's outlook on the state's wet season, you can expect a "wetter than normal" winter this year. Hawaii Public Radio.

Warmer temps, above average rainfall predicted for upcoming wet season. Weather models predict Hawaii will see a wetter ― and warmer ― wet season, which extends from October through April. Hawaii News Now.

Upcoming Wet Season to Eliminate Current Drought in Hawai‘i. Maui Now.

Forecasters predict wetter-than-average rainy season. Hilo International Airport averages 80.63 inches during the rainy season, October through April. Tribune-Herald.

Ready for rain. It’s going to be a rainy wet season across Hawaii, and Hanalei could be looking at potential flooding throughout the season. Garden Island.

Marine heat waves, like the one behind Hawaii’s sweltering summer, poised to be ‘new normal’. Five years ago, a vast stretch of warm water emerged across the North Pacific Ocean, extending from Alaska to California to Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii’s surf might disappear completely if climate change worsens, experts say. Hawaii News Now.

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Lawmakers to revisit statewide ban of flavored e-cigarettes. State lawmakers, grappling with how to stop an unprecedented rise in vaping among Hawaii youth, will consider a statewide ban of flavored electronic cigarettes again next legislative session amid a growing outbreak of lung illnesses nationwide. Star-Advertiser.

Lawmakers discuss options after second case of vaping-related lung illness. After a second vaping-related lung illness was confirmed, lawmakers met today to discuss options for what to do to address the vaping epidemic in Hawaii. KHON2.

Hawaii High Schooler To Legislators: Ban Flavored E-Cigs. Meanwhile, a major Hawaii e-cigarette retailer said a flavor ban wouldn’t do any good. Civil Beat.

State confirms 2nd case of lung illness associated with vaping. State health officials confirmed Thursday that there is now a second severe lung illness case associated with vaping. It involves a young adult from Kauai.  KHON2.

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Shortage of Hawaii Pro Bono Attorneys Hobbles Legal Aid To Asylum-Seekers. As many as 150 Central American migrants seeking asylum have found their way to Hawaii from the U.S. Mexico border. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii to receive $1.5 million from Johnson & Johnson for not properly disclosing side effects of device. Hawaii will receive about $1.5 million from pharmaceutical company Johnson and Johnson for deceiving customers on one of its medical devices. KITV.

Johnson & Johnson, Ethicon Inc. reach $116.9M settlement over medical device: Here's how much Hawaii gets. Hawaii will be receiving $1.5 million from the settlement. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Wind Farm Protesters Arrested As They Blockade Road For Construction Vehicles. After the arrests, four construction trucks carrying sections of turbines left for the wind farm site in Kahuku. Civil Beat.

Kahuku wind farm convoy blocked by felled electric pole after protesters arrested. Equipment for Kahuku wind farm project leaves Kapolei after police arrest protesters. Police are turning around vehicles on Kamehameha Highway near Sunset Beach because a Hawaiian Electric Co. electric pole was cut down, officers confirmed, presumably to stop the wind turbine convoy from reaching Kahuku. Star-Advertiser.

Police arrest 22 Kahuku wind farm opponents staging late-night blockade in Kalaeloa. Honolulu police arrested 22 opponents of a planned wind energy farm in Kahuku after they tried to block large turbines and other pieces of construction equipment from getting to the North Shore late Thursday into early Friday. Hawaii News Now.

Demonstrators opposed to the new wind turbines on the North Shore are arrested overnight. Police have arrested 22 people in Kalaeloa where demonstrators have been blocking the large wind turbine equipment from leaving the AES Baseyard. KHON2.

Kahuku wind farm opponents arrested during blockade in Kalaeloa. Those opposed to the project are concerned about the environmental and health impacts to the small north shore community. KITV.

Kahuku Wind Farm Protesters Want A Solar Farm Instead. Protesters in Kahuku who have been blocking the movement of equipment for a wind farm said they would support a solar farm in its place. Hawaii Public Radio.

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Navy eyes new 2045 deadline for Red Hill tank improvements. Navy officials said Thursday that they’re committed to finding a way to install a secondary containment system around their massive, underground fuel tanks at Red Hill where 27,000 gallons of fuel leaked in 2014 — and if they can’t, they will remove the fuel around the year 2045. Star-Advertiser.

Navy Resists Calls To Relocate Or Strengthen Red Hill Fuel Tanks. Critics worried about leaks into Honolulu’s drinking water are calling for the Navy to relocate the tanks as fast as possible. Civil Beat.

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Staffer Convicted In Union Vote Rigging No Longer At HART. Yamanoha’s continued employment at HART drew criticism, but rail agency officials won’t say whether he was fired or left voluntarily. Civil Beat.

Once-Defeated Kaneohe Cemetery Expansion Plan Is Back. While many neighbors are mounting opposition to the new proposal, the expansion has the vocal support from several Native Hawaiian organizations. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s Green Energy Projects Search For Ways To Navigate Community Opposition. A number of new solar and wind projects are needed in Oahu to replace the last coal-fired plant, which is scheduled to close in 2022. Civil Beat.

Uncertain future for The Arts at Marks Garage. The Arts at Marks Garage has been a gathering place for local artists for nearly 20 years. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Altitude sickness challenges state officers and TMT protesters. Union filed grievance over evacuations from Mauna Kea. Hawaii News Now obtained a HGEA grievance and letter sent in September to the Department of Public Safety. Hawaii News Now.

UH On Mauna Kea, “Why Are We Stuck?” Greg Chun, the executive director of Maunakea stewardship at the University of Hawaiʻi, gave a talk at UH-Hilo on Thursday about the ongoing conflict on the mountain. Big Island Video News.

University of Hawaii regents call for civility and nonviolence in TMT debate. The University of Hawaii Board of Regents is calling for nonviolence and de- escalation of tension in the university community in connection with the conflict over Mauna Kea. Star-Advertiser.

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NOAA Ship Surveys New Lava Deltas Off Puna. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Ship "Rainier" was off the Puna coast in September, measuring the bathymetry following last summer's lower East Rift Zone lava flows. Big Island Video News.

Kona Community Aquatic Center to reopen Tuesday. The Kona Community Aquatic Center reopens to the public on Tuesday following a lengthy over-the-summer closure. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Council to consider hiring special counsel over charter debate. Attorneys dispute who has authority to withdraw county from injection wells case. Maui News.

Judge Kelsey Kawano Appointed to Maui’s Circuit Court. Maui Judge Kelsey Kawano has been appointed to fill the vacancy on the Circuit Court of the Second Circuit. Maui Now.

Expert: Hawaii could lose ‘localness’ if housing not fixed. 2-day forum on attainable homes held at MACC. Maui News.

Mahi Pono Potatoes to Debut at Hawai‘i Food & Wine Festival on Maui. Maui Now.

Ross Opens Third Maui Store, New Anchor Tenant at Lahaina Gateway. Maui Now.

Tori Richard signs lease as part of Westin Maui's $100M upgrade. Tori Richard Ltd. has signed a lease for a 1,100-square-foot lobby retail space at The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Kaanapali, which has been undergoing a $100 million repositioning. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

Three Kauai schools on lockdown. Police detained one person and are looking into “persons of interest” in connection to threats that forced lockdowns of school campuses in Lihue and Kapaa for over an hour Thursday. Garden Island.

Harbor fees going up, Kahuku wind farm protested, Land Use Commission to consider Thirty Meter Telescope, water increase for Mahi Pono, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Ala Wai boat harbor ©2019 All Hawaii News

Hawaii Boaters Upset About Steep Fee Increase At State-Run Harbors. It’s unknown whether the increase will cover a backlog of maintenance and improvements at the 16 small boat harbors. Civil Beat.

Foreign students add $446M to state’s economy. International students had a total economic impact in Hawaii of $446 million last year, according to a new report by the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. Star-Advertiser.

Plastic marine debris on Hawaii’s windward coasts comes mostly from abroad, study finds. A study conducted at Hawaii Pacific University has found that the majority of marine debris washing up on Hawaii’s shores is not from the isles, but from abroad. Star-Advertiser.

Making strides in renewable energy. Hawaii has landed on a new list of states making big strides in renewable energy, tying with Vermont at number 14 on the list that looks at state policies and incentives as well as carbon emissions and renewable energy production. Garden Island.

12% of Hawaii children are obese, study finds. An estimated 13,800 Hawaii children ages 10 to 17 are obese, according to a new study by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. Star-Advertiser.

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Running For President, Gabbard Faces Challenge In Hawaii. The campaign Kai Kahele is building for Congress is putting Gabbard's day job in jeopardy as she fights to break through a crowded Democratic presidential primary field. Associated Press.

Gabbard Backs Off Boycott, Will Debate After All. The Hawaii congresswoman, who is struggling to breakthrough on the national stage, said she was considering skipping Tuesday’s presidential debate. Civil Beat.

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Investigators set their sights on owners of Hawaii’s illicit massage parlors. Hawaii law enforcement agencies, unable to curtail the proliferation of such businesses over the years, are readjusting their approach, delving into ownership ties and looking for ways to disrupt the financial infrastructure that supports the industry. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Protesters gather in attempt to block Kahuku wind farm construction. Opponents of the AES Na Pua Makani wind farm began gathering Sunday evening in an attempt to block construction of the project on Oahu’s North Shore. Hawaii News Now.

Kia’i say that they don’t plan to move, construction for North Shore wind project begins Monday. Those opposed to the Na Pua Makani wind project have formed a line to block the construction of wind turbines in Kahuku Sunday night, October 13. KHON2.

Oahu residents hold peaceful protest against wind turbine project. Many O'ahu residents participated in a peaceful protest on Sunday night against plans to build eight 568-foot wind turbines. KITV.

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New B&B property tax category proposed. A bill moving through the Honolulu City Council would carve out a new property tax category for homeowners who operate bed-and-breakfast establishments. Star-Advertiser.

Navy officials to brief public on Red Hill plans. Navy officials will brief lawmakers and the public about their proposed plans for improving tank safety at the Red Hill Underground Fuel Storage Facility during meetings on Tuesday and Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Developer, city fail to keep timely promises on Waikiki parking lot. A 50-stall metered parking lot still hasn’t been returned to the city a year after the Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach, opened its second tower. Star-Advertiser.

Waikiki eyesore set for long overdue makeover. Construction is expected to begin in December to transform a nearly one-acre gravel lot on Aloha Drive in central Waikiki into a community park. KITV.

HART’s Shoddy Relocation Program Took A Toll On Those Displaced By Rail. For years, the agency didn’t follow the proper federal rules moving businesses on the path of the rail line. Civil Beat.

Councilwoman wants tourists to sign pledge to protect the environment. City Councilwoman Kymberly Pine wants visitors to Oahu to pledge to be “environmentally responsible and culturally sensitive” during their stay here. Star-Advertiser.

Redevelopment of Aloha Stadium to take next step. The process of selecting a developer for the New Aloha Stadium Entertainment District will take a major step in coming months as the state prepares to send out requests for qualifications from prospective partners before the end of the year. Star-Advertiser.

Kawaiahao iwi still stored in church basement as years-long controversy drags on. The families of more than 600 burials — unearthed during a construction project at Kawaiahao Church — are nearly finished with a burial treatment plan. Hawaii News Now.

Army zeroes in on rapid artillery raids in new era of ‘great power’ competition. For the first time, the 25th Infantry Division last week practiced moving two M777 howitzers — which each weigh nearly 10,000 pounds — by air using a CH-47 Chinook helicopter, setting up the big guns as fast as possible and firing at a target during the rapid artillery raid. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Mauna Kea “industrial uses” challenged by protestors. A hearing has been scheduled before the state Land Use Commission later this month to consider a petition that challenges the legality of “the industrial uses” atop Mauna Kea, including the controversial Thirty Meter Telescope. Star-Advertiser.

Maunakea VIS face-lift complete. A million-dollar renovation at the Maunakea Visitor Information Station has been completed for months, but nobody has been able to experience it yet. Tribune-Herald.

With summer ended, weather could affect the TMT protests. Summer is over, and colder weather could soon have an impact on the months-long blockade of Mauna Kea Access Road. Star-Advertiser.

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‘This is totally unacceptable’: Mayor Kim riled by siren inaction. Mayor Harry Kim vowed Friday to get to the bottom of why 10% of Hawaii Island’s emergency warning sirens are inoperable. West Hawaii Today.

PGV drilling new well this week. Puna Geothermal Venture will begin drilling a new production well this week, according to a letter sent out earlier this month to neighbors and community members. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

State board OKs more water for Mahi Pono. A&B revocable permits subject of controversy for many years. Maui News.

Recent violence belies Maui’s progress in getting the homeless into more stable situations. Maui continues to see progress in reducing its homeless population — now down to 862 individuals, according to the latest count — but back-to-back violence at a new homeless encampment underscores lingering problems. Star-Advertiser.

Organizers Are Trying to Inform Tourists About Maui's Fragile Reefs. In an effort to educate the nearly 3 million tourists that visit Maui each year, a Lahaina-based environmental group is raising awareness on protecting the islandʻs marine life. Maui Now.

UH Student Enrollment Down on Maui College Campus and Across the State. Enrollment at the University of Hawaii Maui College campus is down to 2,992 students, a 3.2 percent drop this fall semester when compared to fall 2018. Maui Now.

2 county sites could receive $2.7 million for land purchases. Panel favors grants for Mapulehu and Makaalae lands. Maui News.


Kauai

Bill proposes bus fee changes. The Kauai County Council is considering legislation that would change bus fares and establish a passenger code of conduct. Garden Island.

Kilauea ag park becoming something bigger. When the Kilauea Community Agricultural Center (now also known as Aina Ho‘okupu O Kilauea) was first incorporated as a nonprofit in 2015, it was probably true that most people on Kauai — if they’d heard about it at all — thought of it as small plots that community gardeners would tend. Garden Island.

Rice Street work is meeting topic. The Rice Street revitalization project is the topic of the Lihue Business Association meeting Thursday, Oct. 24, from 7:30 to 9 a.m. at Duke’s Canoe Club on Kalapaki Beach. Garden Island.

Molokai

Molokai residents outraged over conditions at island’s only health center. Some Molokai residents are calling for the head of the island’s only community health center to resign after the facility was forced to close for four days in August because of staff shortages. Hawaii News Now.

Senate panel votes against Public Safety director's confirmation, more details emerge on federal rail fund withholding, AC Hotel Wailea by Marriott breaks ground on Maui, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Senate panel votes against reappointing public safety director. A state Senate committee voted Thursday against reappointing Nolan Espinda director of the Department of Public Safety, citing last month’s riot at the Maui jail, recent shootings of an Oahu jail inmate and a homeless man, detention of prisoners beyond their release dates and an alleged culture of retaliation and intimidation within the department. Star-Advertiser.

Ige Stands By His Public Safety Chief After Senate Panel Calls For Espinda’s Ouster. A Senate committee harshly criticized Nolan Espinda’s leadership of Hawaii’s prisons and the Sheriff Division. Civil Beat.

Senate Committee Votes Against Confirming Public Safety Director. Nolan Espinda, Gov. David Ige’s nominee to head the state Department of Public Safety, won’t get the backing of a key legislative committee. Hawaii Public Radio.

Senate committee won’t recommend Espinda’s return as public safety director. Hawaii News Now.

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Administrator in charge of DPS training programs accused of lying on her resume. The woman in charge of training more than 1,500 of Hawaii’s deputy sheriffs and adult corrections officers is facing public scrutiny for allegedly being dishonest about her job qualifications. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Rifle Association, NRA Seek Injunction To Suspend Gun Carry Requirements. Gun advocates filed a motion Thursday in U.S. District Court asking for an immediate injunction stopping enforcement of permit requirements that they say amount to a de facto ban on carrying guns. Hawaii Public Radio.

Urgency claimed in isle lawsuit over public carry of guns. The Hawaii Rifle Association is attempting to obtain quick action in a 2-week-old federal lawsuit aimed at allowing many residents statewide to carry loaded handguns in public. Star-Advertiser.

The number of farms in Hawaii grew substantially from 2012 to 2017, though the market value of the industry dropped nearly $100 million over the same period. That’s according to numbers released Thursday morning by the U.S. Department of Agriculture in its 2017 Census of Agriculture. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii School Chief Asks DeVos About Teacher Shortage. Christina Kishimoto mentioned the challenge of teacher retention in remote areas. Civil Beat.

Oahu

With still two days left, record number of ballots cast in City Council special election. Ahead of Saturday’s deadline, more than 31,000 votes have already been cast in the City Council District IV special election. Hawaii News Now.

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Honolulu Rail’s Final Federal Money Not Expected Until Next Year. The Federal Transit Administration has withheld $744 million from the project since 2015. Civil Beat.

Federal agency demands faster city contributions for rail. The Federal Transit Administration wants to see the city accelerate the pace of its contributions to help fund the Honolulu rail project before the FTA releases $744 million in federal funding it has withheld from the project. Star-Advertiser.

Feds Delaying Rail Funding, Citing Concerns About The Project. The Federal Transit Administration is withholding payments for Honolulu's rail system until officials make changes to its plan to get the $9 billion project back on track. Hawaii Public Radio.

Feds to delay release of millions in rail funding over construction concerns. Citing concerns about two impending construction contracts, the FTA has decided to delay the release of hundreds of millions of dollars in federal funding intended to help propel Honolulu’s rail line toward completion. Hawaii News Now.

Federal Transit Administration withholding rail transit funding until February 2020. KHON2.

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Health director wants Navy to move Red Hill fuel tanks. State Department of Health Director Bruce Anderson is urging the Navy to relocate its underground fuel storage facility at Red Hill away from a major source of Oahu’s drinking water.  Star-Advertiser.

Worried about 'catastrophic’ spill, state wants U.S. Navy to move its Red Hill fuel tanks. Hawaii News Now.

Turtle Bay to start $70M renovation. Turtle Bay, which is owned by Blackstone and managed by Benchmark Resorts &Hotels, plans to start a $70 million renovation by the fourth quarter of this year that will be the precursor for its plan to add about 725 more units during a lengthy build-out that could start two or three years from now. Star-Advertiser.

An Ewa Elementary School A-plus teacher is accused of sexually assaulting a 13-year-old former student. An Oahu grand jury returned an indictment today charging Jordan Cortez with eight counts of sexual assault. Star-Advertiser.

Thousands of items from the Honolulu Police Department’s evidence room are up for auction. HPD amassed the items from various criminal cases over the years as well as from personal property turned in by the public that was never claimed by their owners. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Lawmakers talk successes, failures at legislative forum. A handful of lawmakers took some time Wednesday to return to Hawaii Island for a Community Forums event and talk story on a few measures of note in the 2019 legislative session, both those that look promising and those that have fallen short. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County Council approves two of three lava disaster aid bills. Bills passed on final reading clear the way to accept $40 million in loans from the state and adds restoration of Highway 132 to the capital budget. Tribune-Herald.

An old hospital in Hilo is being transformed into a haven for the homeless. In Hilo, an old hospital is being transformed into one of the state's first homeless Ohana Zones. It's one of two Ohana Zone projects in the works for Hawaii Island. Hawaii News Now.

Wally Lau, Kimo Lee Named To Kahu Ku Mauna. The Maunakea Management Board voted to approve the two selections to the volunteer advisory board during its April 2 meeting. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Hale Mahaolu Lahaina Surf will not raise rents on tenants. Housing complex only looking to raise subsidy that HUD pays  Maui News.

Lahaina Cannery Mall eyes expansion with gas station. Plans call for 8-pump gas station and convenience store. Maui News.

New AC Hotel Wailea Breaks Ground. The 110-room AC Hotel Wailea by Marriott is being built on a three acre-lot situated at the corner of Wailea Ike Place and Wailea Ike Drive, adjacent to the Wailea Tennis Club. Maui Now.

Ex-Maui inmate gets $10K in sex assault lawsuit settlement. A former inmate who says Hawaii officials didn’t protect her against a guard convicted of sexually assaulting her is settling a lawsuit for $10,000. Associated Press.

Ex-Maui inmate gets $10K in sex assault lawsuit settlement. A former inmate who alleges Hawaii officials didn't protect her against a guard convicted of sexual assault is settling a lawsuit for $10,000. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Former lifeguard’s lawsuit dismissed. A Fifth Circuit Court judge on Wednesday dismissed a lawsuit brought by a former firefighter, alleging his supervisors in the Kauai Fire Department threatened and retaliated against him for testifying about their alleged misconduct. Garden Island.

Coral may be adapting to warmer seas, 3rd federal subpoena for Honolulu rail, milk production may be doomed, voting behind bars, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Divers study coral damage in Hawaii ©2019 All Hawaii News

A team of researchers from the University of Hawaii at Manoa School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology and the Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum conducted a study of coral resiliency that showed some corals are better able to tolerate heat than similar corals tested in the 1970s. But scientists say it will not be fast enough to fight off rising sea temperatures. University of Hawaii.

Fresh Hawaii milk production may be doomed after dairy industry missteps. The state Department of Agriculture and University of Hawaii have supported efforts to help reverse the decline. But the recent developments aren’t encouraging. Star-Advertiser.

Rural Schools Take A Big Hit In Hawaii’s Funding Formula. Hawaii’s system was meant to make school funding more equitable. But in places like Hana and Molokai, it’s meant cutting teachers and class offerings. Civil Beat.

‘Hawaii Saves’ retirement fund moves forward with opposition from insurers. A proposal to create a Hawaii retirement savings program for local businesses is moving forward in the state Senate. Hawaii News Now.

Bringing The Right To Vote Behind Bars. Supporters, including the Department of Public Safety, are backing legislation that would make Hawaii one of a handful of states that allow inmates to cast a ballot. Civil Beat.

Bills would establish statewide regulations for ‘transportation network companies’ — including Uber and Lyft. Tribune-Herald.

Bills To Help Sexual Misconduct Victims Speak Out Also Could Keep Them Silent. Lawmakers are considering measures to block non-disclosure agreements related to sexual misconduct. Civil Beat.

1 in 15 Hawaii high schools students have attempted suicide according to the Hawaii State Teachers Association, which is supporting a bill to prevent suicide. The bill would have public school employees trained on what to look out for and how to help kids contemplating killing themselves. KITV.

Hawaii Gas files motion for solar water heater ruling. Hawaii Gas has filed a motion to intervene in a suit against a state agency alleging that it was wrongfully allowing “wholesale exemptions” from a solar water heater mandate for tens of thousands of gas water heaters. Star-Advertiser.

Hotel Occupancy Dips in January, But Vacation Rentals May Not Be To Blame. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Third HART subpoena seeks minutes of closed meetings. Federal investigators want the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation to turn over minutes for its board’s meetings as part of its criminal investigation into the $9.2 billion project. Star-Advertiser.

Feds Demand Records Of HART Board’s Closed-Door Meetings. The latest subpoena requires HART to provide unredacted minutes of its board’s executive sessions, but HART questions whether it can fully comply. Civil Beat.

HART Receives Third Federal Supoena Seeking Board Minutes. Hawaii Public Radio.

Honolulu rail authorities confirmed Monday that they had received a third subpoena in connection with a federal criminal investigation into the state’s largest public works project. Hawaii News Now.

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The Honolulu Prosecutor’s office has now kicked two high profile cases to another agency -- because of potential conflicts due to the federal investigation. Both cases were handled by former deputy prosecutor Katherine Kealoha, the one time head of the career criminal unit -- who is now facing dozens of federal charges. Hawaii News Now.

The Navy has provided federal and state regulators with the results of testing at its Red Hill fuel facility near Pearl Harbor that was conducted to assess corrosion at 18 underground fuel tanks that sit just 100 feet above a major aquifer that supplies drinking water to urban Honolulu. Star-Advertiser.

Replacement to crumbling dock in East Honolulu deemed unsafe, too. Nearly two months after officials with the Department of Land and Natural Resources condemned a popular loading dock in East Oahu because it was unsafe, the structure collapsed into the ocean. Hawaii News Now.

The proposed expansion of Adventist Health Castle, formerly Castle Medical Center, at Hawaii Pacific University’s Hawaii Loa campus is projected to cost $438 million, according to a draft environmental impact statement. Star-Advertiser.

New hair salon seeks liquor license. Full-service hair salon Style Loft Hair Studio hopes to add alcohol to its offerings, according to public documents. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

A draft environmental assessment and anticipated finding of no significant impact has been published for a family agricultural community proposed in Waikoloa. Nakahili is an agricultural community planned for land mauka of Waikoloa Village, and will have affordable apartments and farm dwellings. Big Island Video News.

Lava tour operator hit with another lawsuit. A second group of mainland residents who were aboard a lava tour boat last July when a “lava bomb” tore through the boat’s roof is suing the tour company and the boat’s captain. Tribune-Herald.

DOH issues water contamination advisory after overflow at dairy. The state Department of Health on Sunday issued a water contamination advisory, warning the public to stay out of the waters in Kaohaoha Gulch and the coastal waters fronting it near Ookala because of animal waste contamination. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Hawaii Medical Service Association held a grand opening of its 4,200-square-foot “one-stop shop” center in the Puunene Shopping Center. Maui News.

The state Department of Transportation lifted its access restriction for travel on the main road through rugged northwest Maui on Sunday near noon but will reinstate the access limitations beginning Tuesday. Maui News.

Sierra Club honorees saved land and water. Lifetime achievement awards handed out to four Mauians. Maui News.

Kauai

The Kauai Police Department is short staffed. Patrol officers frequently work 17-hour shifts and fill in on their days off, only to staff a marginally adequate number of positions. Garden Island.

About 200 volunteers removed more than 4,000 pounds of plastics, nets and other marine debris from Kauai’s East Side shores on Saturday through a cleanup hosted by B-RAD Foundation and Surfrider Kauai Chapter. Garden Island.

Foreign investment soars, owners to face fines for fake service animals, homeless qualify for Medicaid housing, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu ©2018 All Hawaii News

Amid already hot housing market, foreign investment in Hawaii properties soars. Decades after the collapse of the Japanese investment bubble, foreign investment in Hawaii is making a big comeback. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii to roll out database to track school repair backlog. The Hawaii Department of Education is rolling out an online database to track the estimated $868 million backlog of repair and maintenance projects in the public school system. Associated Press.

Homeless people in Hawaii who are enrolled in Med-QUEST, the state’s Medicaid program, will have access to housing support services starting Jan. 1 that were previously offered to only a handful. Civil Beat.

As Ed Case prepares to be sworn into the U.S. House of Representatives in January, he’s been hiring key staff and gearing up for what he hopes will be major reforms in Congress. Star-Advertiser.

Claiming an ordinary dog to be a service animal will soon be illegal in Hawaii. Thanks to a law passed in July, the new year will add “misrepresentation of a service animal” to the state’s list of offenses punishable by a civil penalty. Tribune-Herald.

Circus and carnivals in Hawaii can’t bring lions, tigers or bears in for the show thanks to updated state rules signed by Gov. David Ige, and the head of the Hawaii Board of Agriculture says it’s been a long time coming. Garden Island.

Hawaii’s economy remained relatively strong through the year, with continued job growth, increasing wages and tax revenues that exceeded government projections in 2018, according to an annual financial report released last week by the Department of Accounting and General Services. Garden Island.

IMAGES OF 2018: A Year Of Alarms, Elections, Lava And A Notable Passing. The mother of all false alerts preceded very real disasters that flooded Kauai with rainwater and the Big Island with lava. Then came the threat of Hurricane Lane. Civil Beat.

Oahu

State Hospital overtime raises safety concerns. Big paychecks for overtime, also leads to big concerns about safety at the Hawaii State Hospital. KITV.

State and county officials, social service agencies and law enforcement are working together to address the highest per capita rate of homelessness in the country, but more needs to be done, according to the regional coordinator for the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness. Star-Advertiser.

'It’s paradise’: Crowds head to the beach, trails for a sunny Christmas Day in Hawaii. A sunny Christmas Day sent throngs of merry-makers to Oahu beaches and parks Tuesday, where first responders were out in full force, too. Hawaii News Now.

Nearly 5 years after a huge fuel leak at the Red Hill Bulk Storage Facility, a forum will be held so people can get answers about preventing future leaks while protecting our water supply. KITV.

No flood, tsunami, earthquake or hurricane — not even retirement or a near-fatal heart attack — can keep Danny Tengan from readying East Honolulu residents for disaster. Star-Advertiser.

Water service will be temporarily suspended for four hours this morning at Magic Island, also known as Aina Moana, for a shower improvement project. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii officially down to one refinery. In line with the findings of the Hawaii Refinery Task Force's interim report from November 2013, one of the state's two refineries has, as predicted, officially ceased its refining operations before the year 2020. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Embattled dairy intentionally discharges 800,000 gallons of sewage into Big Island waters. Hawaii News Now.

Big Island Dairy Discharges More Wastewater Amid Heavy Rains. Hawaii health officials say the diary, which was fined for spilling nearly 8 million gallons of wastewater this summer, is pumping out nearly 800,000 gallons in the latest incident. Civil Beat.

The owners of Big Island Dairy illegally discharged Monday roughly 600,000 gallons of sewage that contaminated coastal waters through Kaohaoha Gulch. Star-Advertiser.

Water within Kaohaoha Gulch was contaminated with animal waste due to an overflowing retention pond at the dairy facility caused by heavy rainfall, health officials say. Big Island Video News.

Waimea residents and others will get a chance next month to weigh in on which of two air service providers they’d rather see offer subsidized flights out of the Waimea-Kohala Airport. West Hawaii Today.

The reins of the Big Island’s fourth-largest private landowner quietly changed hands last week. The new president of W.H. Shipman Ltd. is Margaret “Peggy” Farias, previously the chief financial officer and treasurer of the Keaau-based company. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Timeshare resorts report occupancy rate of 91.8% in Q3. Maui News.

Chief: Officers’ actions ‘justified’ in shooting. Suspect, who was shot to death, drew a handgun, he said. Maui News.

New video of Sunday’s deadly officer-involved shooting in Wailuku was released at a press conference today at the Wailuku Police Station. The 23 second encounter at the Kaohu Street, South Market Street intersection, came following a chase that ensued for approximately 12 minutes. Maui Now.

Maui Electric is proposing to assume ownership and operation of the existing electric vehicle fast-charging network established on Maui through the JUMPSmartMaui demonstration project. Maui Now.

Maui Electric Co. on Friday proposed to assume ownership and operation of the JUMPSmartMaui electric vehicle fast-charging network on the Valley Isle. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

The last several miles of road along Kauai’s North Shore remain closed to the public since the April flood. Local residents are limited to commute along one lane of the highway and only during scheduled convoy times. Hawaii Public Radio.

More than 100 threatened and endangered seabirds have fledged from the Nihoku restoration site within the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge in the past four years. Garden Island.

Hawaii Supreme Court allows prostitutes' johns to wipe record, Maui spent taxpayer money opposing ConAm, Kona coffee yield down, electric rates to go up, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Matson ship off Honolulu © 2018 All Hawaii News

Ships vying for fuel oil expected to boost Hawaii electric bills. Hawaii, which already struggles with the nation’s highest electric bills, could see them jump by as much as 20 percent in just two years thanks to new regulations on fuel use in oceangoing ships. Bloomberg News Service.

State Supreme Court rules those who solicit prostitutes can wipe record. Under current state law, prostitutes and those who solicit prostitutes are punished differently. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Ballot Issues Draw $2.7 Million In Campaign Spending. Most of that money won’t end up influencing voters since the measure to raise taxes to fund public schools was thrown out by the state Supreme Court. Civil Beat.

Hawaii high school students reported fewer physical fights but more suicide attempts than their U.S. peers, while bullying rates approached the national average, according to data to be presented to the school board today. Star-Advertiser.

UH Wants $40 Million To Help Students Lower Their Tuition Costs. The university is asking legislators for money to expand the Hawaii Promise program to the Manoa, Hilo and West Oahu four-year campuses. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Medical Service Association is notifying some members currently enrolled in older health plans that they will be moved to coverage compliant with the federal Affordable Care Act as of Jan. 1. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Planning panel endorses Caldwell’s new plan on vacation rentals. The Honolulu Planning Commission on Wednesday gave its thumbs-up to the latest version of Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s omnibus short-term vacation rental bill, adding its own suggestions for the City Council, which will make a final decision on the proposal. Star-Advertiser.

BWS balks at study that says sizable leak of Red Hill fuel tank wouldn’t harm water supply. The Navy says critics are misreading the research. The Honolulu Board of Water Supply and environmentalists are protesting a study that suggests a fuel leak in a huge Navy tank farm buried in Red Hill might not harm the island water supply. Hawaii News Now.

Why The State Wants To Build This Ala Moana High-Rise Above A Shelter. Unlike the luxury condo towers rising nearby, all 200 units in the complex would be affordable housing. It’s considered a model for future use of state-owned land. Civil Beat.

State considers Leeward Oahu property as site for homeless ‘ohana zone,' but not everyone is on board. After a decade of helping hundreds of families, a Leeward Oahu homeless shelter closed its doors permanently Wednesday. Hawaii News Now.

Houseless Encampment Leaders Want Seat at the Decision-Making Table. Leaders from 3 homeless encampments came together at the Honolulu Museum of Art to discuss their futures. Hawaii Public Radio.

New bikeshare program in Honolulu looks like competition for Biki. Riders can rent a bike for $3.50 for 30 minutes. Hawaii News Now.

In response to community outrage, Kamehameha Schools has suspended plans to remove geese and ducks from a property it owns in Enchanted Lake. Hawaii News Now.

Sewage spills into Manoa Stream from overflow on St. Louis Heights Dr. More than 12,500 gallons of raw sewage spilled into Manoa Stream from a overflow on St. Louis Heights Drive. KHON2.

Kailua sinkhole may take months to repair. A portion of Kanapuu Drive near the Kahako Street intersection remained closed, as well as adjacent sidewalks, as crews Wednesday inspected the sinkhole on the shoulder of the road. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Opponents of the Thirty Meter Telescope say they plan to meet Monday to discuss their legal options in the wake of Tuesday’s Hawaii Supreme Court ruling that gives the green light for construction of the $1.4 billion project. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Supreme Court decision to allow the controversial TMT project is still reverberating across the community. We hear reactions from the University of Hawaii President David Lassner, Big Island businessman and supporter Richard Ha, and Thirty Meter Telescope opponent Kealoha Pisciotta. Hawaii Public Radio.

Expectations delivered Wednesday by both Hawaii County and the "Thirty Meter Telescope" project. KITV.

The geologists who monitor Hawaii’s volcanoes can still count themselves among those displaced by the recent Kilauea eruption. Tribune-Herald.

The issue of what comes next for the beleaguered residents of Leilani Estates continues to divide a community worried about the possibility of busloads of tourists pouring in to gawk at Kilauea volcano’s most productive and famous outlet — fissure 8. Star-Advertiser.

Kulani Correctional Facility superintendent pleads not guilty to theft. A state prison superintendent charged with theft pled not guilty to third degree theft on Wednesday. Jerry Crivello is accused of stealing gates. KHON2.

Yield and profits down, prices up after coffee season cut short. Coffee season ended abruptly, some two months earlier than usual, for West Hawaii farmers. West Hawaii Today.

Lau Ola cleared to grow marijuana. A second marijuana dispensary on the Big Island was authorized by the state Department of Health to grow and sell cannabis products. Tribune-Herald.

Project explores viability of using canines to hunt for harmful tree fungus. Cobra was trained to detect a fungus that causes rapid ohia death. Tribune-Herald.

Bubba Gump to close. Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. on Alii Drive will cease operations in December “due to lease expiration,” company senior vice president and chief operating officer Jim Dufault said Wednesday. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Panel: Council’s ConAm flyer is campaign spending. County funds used to send what some see as an ad opposing a ‘vague’ ballot measure. The Campaign Spending Commission is asking the Maui County Council to register as a ballot issue committee for allocating $50,000 on a “public education” flyer addressing a state constitutional amendment. Maui News.

Looking to students as the future, mayoral candidates Elle Cochran and Mike Victorino offered their thoughts on increasing job, housing and recreational opportunities for Maui’s youth during a debate held at King Kekaulike High School on Tuesday night. Maui News.

Molokai candidates for council offer contrast. Maui County Council Member Stacy Helm Crivello faces a familiar opponent, Keani Rawlins-Fernandez, in the general election race for the council’s Molokai residency seat. Maui News.

Kauai

Armed with sample ballots, notebooks and questions, about 60 people crowded into Ha Coffee Tuesday night to learn more about what they’ll be voting on Nov. 6. Garden Island.

County Council candidate: Arryl Kaneshiro. Growing up on Kauai with strong family support and the support of teachers and coaches has given County Councilman Arryl Kaneshiro, 37, the ability to make tough decisions. Garden Island.

A blessing was held on Tuesday at the Kapaa bus stop near the Bryan J. Baptiste Sports Complex to mark construction of the fourth phase of the islandwide bus stop passenger shelter project. Garden Island.

The blue color surrounding the construction at Hanalei Pier and Black Pot Beach Park area is hydro-mulch, put on the ground to grow grass, according to county officials. Garden Island.

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

Mauna Loa mac nuts ©2018 All Hawaii News

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Oahu

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

HART CEO optimistic after meeting FTA officials. KHON2.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hawaii Island

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

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

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

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

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

Maui

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

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

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

Kauai

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

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