More schools qualify for free meals, 8 Hawaiian birds listed as extinct, Red Hill defueling commences, Lahaina students return to school, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

More Hawaii Schools Qualify For Free Meal Programs But The State May Not Participate. Recent changes to a federal program could allow for a significant expansion of free school meals in Hawaii, but it's unclear if the state will opt in. Civil Beat.

Food prices increase going into the holidays. Food prices have increased from this time last year, and it is likely prices will remain high going into the holidays, so how much will people be paying for some holiday staples? KHON2.

Federal government lists 8 Hawaiian birds as extinct. The eight bird species, all forest honeycreepers, include the Kauai akialoa, Kauai nukupuu, Kauai oo, kamao or large Kauai thrush, Maui akepa, Maui nukupuu, Molokai creeper and poouli, also known as the black-faced honeycreeper. Star-Advertiser. Maui News.  Maui Now. Hawaii News Now.

High surf warning posted for first huge swell of the winter surf season. The National Weather Service in Honolulu said the warning will be in effect from 6 a.m. Tuesday until 6 p.m. Wednesday for the north and west shores of Niihau, Kauai, Oahu and Molokai, and the north shores of Maui. Hawaii News Now.

WWII Marine and hero laid to rest at Punchbowl 80 years after his death. Nearly 80 years after Marine Sgt. Arthur Ervin died fighting on Saipan, he was laid to rest Monday in a ceremony at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific at Punchbowl. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

HECO Seeking $2M From HART For Work Done On Canceled Substation. The substation is no longer needed based on the rail authority's latest projections on power usage and deferral of the Pearl Highlands parking garage. Civil Beat.

Red Hill defueling operation officially underway. On Monday morning Joint Task Force Red Hill, the military organization responsible for draining the tanks at the Navy’s underground Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility, officially began the defueling process. Star-Advertiser.  Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.

Newly-unearthed letter from Akaka offers evidence of Red Hill leaks 2 decades ago. In 2006, the late U.S. Sen. Dan Akaka questioned a high ranking military official about the viability of the Red Hill underground fuel storage tanks. Hawaii News Now.

New homeless program in ʻEwa aims to serve children and their families. Hale Kipa unveiled Thursday the 'Ohana Resilience Services program at Hale Kū Ola, located at Renton Road. The goal is to provide children and their families with a place of refuge and additional services. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

Did construction start at TMT site? Land board to mull the question next month. After months of delays, the question of whether construction work on the Thirty Meter Telescope has begun will be answered in November. Tribune-Herald.

BLNR approves transition of Hilo lots into affordable housing. About 35 acres of state land around Hilo and Kalaoa will be set aside to Hawaii County for affordable housing development. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County seeks information on vehicles damaged or destroyed in wildfires. Maui County is requesting information from vehicle owners to help identify fire-damaged or destroyed vehicles found on public roadways and other right-of-way areas following the August wildfires.  Maui News. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now.

Lahainaluna High School Students Are Met With Celebrations As They Return To Campus. Classes resumed despite lingering concerns about air quality due to the nearby burn zone. Lahaina's intermediate and elementary schools also are reopening this week. Civil Beat. Star-Advertiser.  Maui Now.  Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiian Electric extends moratorium on disconnections for Maui customers. Hawaiian Electric has extended the suspension of service disconnections for all Maui customers through at least Nov. 6. Maui Now.

Housing shuffle vexes Lahaina fire evacuees.  Paul Maloney, his wife, Sandra, and their Pomeranian, Zeus, are about to move for the eighth time since the Aug. 8 wildfire that swept through Lahaina killing up to 98 people and destroying about 2,200 buildings, mostly homes. Star-Advertiser.

Maui police identify Lahaina resident, 61, as latest fire fatality.  The 97th victim out of 98 confirmed fatalities from the Aug. 8 wildfire has been identified as Michael Misaka, 61, of Lahaina — leaving just one victim’s identity yet to be announced. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

Shark bites surfer at Hanalei Bay on Sunday. The first confirmed shark attack of the year on Kaua‘i was reported on Sunday afternoon after a surfer’s leg was bitten by a large shark at Hanalei Bay. Garden Island. Hawaii News Now.

State, feds one step closer to protecting native forest birds on Kauaʻi from mosquito-borne diseases. The Hawaiʻi Department of Land and Natural Resources and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are one step closer to protecting native forest birds on Kauaʻi from mosquito-borne diseases with their proposal to employ the incompatible insect technique to reduce mosquito populations. Kauai Now.

Last-minute candidates emerge at filing deadline, group sues Honolulu over vacation rental law, drought expected to worsen, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Duke Aiona PC:U.S. Air Force photo/Tech. Sgt. Jerome S. Tayborn via Wikipedia

Last-minute candidates emerge to reserve spots on Hawaii’s primary ballot. Former Lt. Gov. Duke Aiona entered the race among Republicans running for governor, and Native Hawaiian activist Walter Ritte from Molokai is competing for a state Senate seat representing parts of Maui County. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii Public Radio.

Government reform panel shifts into new phase. The Commission to Increase Standards of Conduct held its first public meeting June 1 and so far has scheduled four more such meetings between June 15 and July 27 to explore specific topics including campaign finance reform and election law changes. Star-Advertiser.

Experts Expect Drought And Wildfire Conditions To Worsen. As Hawaii enters its 12th driest wet season in the past 30 years, drought and wildfire concerns and conditions are both on the rise. Civil Beat. West Hawaii Today.

Oahu

Lawsuit Seeks To Block Oahu Vacation Rental Law. The complaint by legal short-term rental operators says the city is taking away their property rights. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

City identifies millions of dollars in fees owed. From refuse disposal, rental assistance and liquor law violations, the City has identified 129 accounts that owe a hefty amount of money. Some of the outstanding fees dating back to 1990. KHON2.

Kalama Valley residents heated over proposed development . Kalama Village Center is one of the few places of business for miles for Kalama Valley residents. A proposed 360 unit kapuna living community on this land had some strong pushback from residents. KHON2.

Taiwanese F-16 crash puts spotlight on complex ties. A runway at Daniel K. Ino­uye International Airport that was blocked Monday afternoon when an F-16 belonging to the Taiwanese air force made an emergency crash landing did not sustain any serious damage and has resumed normal operations, according to the state Department of Transportation. The incident has put the complicated relationship between the United States and Taiwan in the spotlight amid tensions with China in the Pacific. Star-Advertiser.

Biden signs bill on clinic to be named after the late Hawaii Sen. Daniel Akaka. Biden signs bill on clinic to be named after the late Hawaii Sen. Daniel Akaka. President Joe Biden on Tuesday signed nine bills into law supporting veterans care initiatives, including one that would name a Department of Veterans Affairs clinic planned for West Oahu after the late Hawaii Sen. Daniel Akaka. Star-Advertiser.

Elderly Hawaii man sues city, HPD after being met at his door by officers with guns drawn. A Waikiki man is suing the city and four Honolulu police officers who woke him up from his apartment with their guns drawn while investigating a report of a minor crime. Hawaii News Now.

Mayor Outlines Chinatown Revitalization Plan. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi Tuesday presented a list of action items to the community board, proposing to bring new improvements to Chinatown. KITV4.

Chinatown businesses feel ‘sense of normalcy’ after homeless meal operations relocate. Chinatown businesses said they see a difference in the homeless population after a non-profit relocated its daily homeless meal operations. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu’s frenetic real estate cycle that saw the median single-family home price soar above $1 million is cooling. The rush was still on in May to buy and sell homes on Oahu ahead of rising interest rates and inflation, which can price buyers out of the market, creating a drop in demand that causes values to soften. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Group: Mayor illegally closed Waipi‘o road. The plaintiffs, through attorneys Steven Strauss and Christopher Bridges, argue the mayor’s authority under HRS §264-1.5 extends only to “allowing for the establishment of traffic emergency zones to provide access to an affected area, not close a county road.” Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Island real estate market expected to cool. According to Multiple Listing Service data, if sales prices for single-family homes are decreasing, it is almost imperceptible. The median sales price for a home in May was $522,500, a decrease of only about $3,000 from April, but still more than $20,000 higher than it was in May 2021. Tribune-Herald.

Number of Veterans Test Positive for COVID at Hilo VA Home. This is the first time the virus has been detected among VA residents since the fatal outbreak during the Delta variant in the summer of 2020 where 27 veterans succumbed to COVID. Big Island Now.

Maui

The Race For Maui Mayor Just Got Even More Competitive. With four longtime county leaders among the eight candidates vying for Maui’s top position, this election is anything but certain. Civil Beat. Maui Now.

Residents mixed over 100% affordable housing plan Hale Waipu’ilani in S. Maui. Saying they’re for affordable housing — just not in this area — at least a dozen opponents to proposed Hale Waipu’ilani 100% workforce project in Kīhei pointed to flooding and traffic concerns Monday during the Maui County Council’s Affordable Housing Committee meeting. Maui Now. Maui News.

West Maui groups launch fundraising campaign to build Olowalu fire substation. Two West Maui groups have joined forces to launch a fundraising campaign in an effort to build a new fire substation in Olowalu, with plans to gift it to the County of Maui. Maui Now.

Extended Hana road closure stir concerns for residents, small businesses. It’s been nearly a week since a damaged bridge prompted Maui County to close the so-called “back road” to Hana. The bridge repairs could take two months to complete. Hawaii News Now.

Housing market may be cooling amid record-high prices. High home prices and mortgage rates may be putting the brakes on a hot housing market as the median sales price for a single-family home in Maui County continues to hover above $1.2 million. Maui News.

Kauai

Thirty Kauaians seek county, state office. Thirty Kauaians announced campaigns for county or state office when the candidate filing deadline passed Tuesday afternoon. Garden Island.

Biden Withdraws Ex-KPD Chief’s Nomination After Retaliation Accusations. Michael Contrades, a former deputy police chief from Kauai, will not be Hawaii’s next U.S. Marshal after the White House this week yanked his nomination after questions were raised about his involvement in a federal retaliation lawsuit that settled for nearly $2 million. Civil Beat.

11 affordable homes coming to Kilauea. Kauhale O Namahana, located across the street from the Kilauea post office, is the first new construction by Permanently Affordable Living Kaua‘i, which purchased the property in 2020.  Garden Island.

Firefighter indictment alleges Honolulu deputy prosecutor Kealoha used stolen money for affair, Ige signs tougher gun laws, city council advances 400-home development, homes lost to lava now at 700, charter school loses contract, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu Deputy Prosecutor Katherine and ex-Chief Louis Kealoha leave court (file photo)

Kathrine Kealoha allegedly used stolen funds for affair. Deputy Prosecutor Katherine Kealoha paid for the hotel and airline tickets to fly her boyfriend to Honolulu from Hilo with money she is charged with obtaining illegally, according to the latest document filed today in the federal case against Kealoha and her husband, retired Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha. Star-Advertiser.

Firefighter allegedly lied to grand jury about affair with ex-HPD chief's wife. A Big Island firefighter has been charged with conspiracy to obstruct after allegedly lying to the federal grand jury that eventually indicted Honolulu's ex-police chief and his deputy prosecutor wife. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii County firefighter indicted for allegedly lying about Kealoha affair. KHON2.

Big Island firefighter indicted for lying about affair with Katherine Kealoha. KITV.

=====

Governor Signs Two Bills Tightening Hawaii’s Gun Laws. The measures ban bump stocks and decrease the amount of time people disqualified from gun possession have to turn in their weapons. Associated Press.

Governor signs new laws to tighten gun laws in Hawaii. Gun owners with bump stocks have 30 days to turn them over to the police. Hawaii News Now.

Gov. David Ige signs bills directed toward reducing opioid overdoses. Hawaii News Now.

Teachers Channel Frustrations Into Political Campaigns. Union leaders say the four teachers seeking House seats are the highest number of teacher-candidates in recent years. Civil Beat.

The Marine Corps in Hawaii is about to double the number of tilt­rotor MV-22B Ospreys it has to deliver Marines in a hurry to far-flung locations where fixed-wing aircraft can’t land. Star-Advertiser.

OHA Inspires Hope — And Disillusionment — For Hawaiians. Created out of the idealism of the 1970s Hawaiian Renaissance, the Office of Hawaiian Affairs has been bogged down by scandal and infighting. Civil Beat.

Hawaii's first-ever marine highway named after late Sen. Daniel Akaka. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii's first marine highway named in honor of late US Senator Daniel Akaka. KHON2.

University of Hawaii researchers have found that rat lungworm is poised to expand its range under the spell of climate change, a fact that could leave more people than ever vulnerable to the infectious disease. Star-Advertiser.

Is Wireless Phone Giant Using Hawaii To Greenwash Its Image? An environmental group says a national ad by Verizon Communications misleads viewers about the company’s policies. Civil Beat.

Oahu

City fires contractor for $54M traffic center citing months of issues, delays. Hawaii News Now.

Problems keep expensive traffic management center unfinished. KHON2.

A plan that would allow up to 400 additional housing units in Laie won a preliminary 5-0 approval from the Honolulu City Council Planning Committee this afternoon. Star-Advertiser.

Affordable housing bill for Laie advances in city council. KITV.

Public safety officials submit plan for relocating, replacing OCCC. The statement names the Animal Quarantine Station in Halawa as the best choice for relocating OCCC. Hawaii News Now.

The city has revised its improvement plans for Ala Moana Regional Park to address issues brought up at a community meeting in January, and is now accepting public comments on it for the next month and a half. Star-Advertiser.

Close to 1,000 people have applied for low-cost mortgage pre-approvals from a nonprofit at an event that began in Honolulu on Friday, according to the event’s organizer. Star-Advertiser.

Mortgage Program Aims to Overcome Home-Buying Obstacles for Hawaii Residents. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

700 and counting: Number of homes officially destroyed since lower Puna eruption began increases. Tribune-Herald.

Cinder Road Residents Advised to Prepare for Evacuation. Big Island Now.

The ongoing lava flow has swallowed most of a $2.7 million parcel the county is buying for open space. West Hawaii Today.

Intense, hot air from the ongoing Kilauea eruption — combined with a drop in tradewinds — triggered 9.22 inches of rain containing sulfur dioxide to drench an isolated portion of the lower East Rift Zone in the 24 hours that ended at 8 Monday morning. Star-Advertiser.

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State Revokes Charter Of Big Island School. Parents will have to find new schools for 93 students after the Ka'u Learning Academy is closed by the Charter School Commission. Civil Beat.

The state Public Charter School Commission on Monday unanimously voted to revoke Ka'u Learning Academy’s charter because of multiple violations. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii State Public Charter School Commission today voted to revoke the charter contract for Ka'u Learning Academy "due to multiple contract violations", the state commission says. Big Island Video News.

State commission revokes Ka'u Learning Academy's charter amid criminal investigations. Hawaii News Now.

Kau Learning Academy contract revoked by charter school commission. KHON2.

=====

From plaques to peanuts: Council members report gifts. West Hawaii Today.

Laaloa Beach Park renovations to begin soon, will include parking lot reduction or removal. West Hawaii Today.

'A slow death': Waipio Valley residents concerned as mysterious illness kills wild horses. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

The Realtors Association of Maui will host a mayoral debate on Thursday, July 26, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Historic Iao Theater in Wailuku. Maui Now.

A housing development arm of Catholic Charities Hawaii announced Monday that it plans to start building half of a $48 million rental housing complex for low-income seniors on Maui by the end of this year. Star-Advertiser.

Land Purchase Complete for Proposed Kahului Senior Affordable Rental Housing. Maui Now.

Land sale final for affordable senior rental housing project. Maui News.

Two pieces of Maui’s housing market moved in opposite directions in June, with declines for single- family houses and gains for condominiums. Star-Advertiser.

The median price of a Maui condominium jumped 20 percent in June, compared to a year ago, while single-family home prices dipped, according to statistics from the Realtors Association of Maui. Pacific Business News.

The light at the more than century-old McGregor Point Lighthouse along the coastline near Maalaea will be out until September as the U.S. Coast Guard repairs the navigational aid for boaters. Maui News.

Kauai

The Kauai Chamber of Commerce’s fourth annual Mayor’s Luncheon is set for noon July 17 at Koloa Landing Resort. Garden Island.

The public is advised that the outermost southbound lane of Kuhio Highway at the intersection with Ehiku Street will be closed from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. tonight through Thursday. Garden Island.

New hazards as lava enters ocean, Ige, Hirono, visit Big Island, Akaka memorialized, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Lava flow snakes to the sea PC: USGS

 Lava from active fissures near the Leilani Estates subdivision has completed a nearly 4-mile crawl to the coast of Hawaii Island and is pouring into the ocean at two separate points. Hawaii News Now.

Gov. David Ige returned to the Big Island on Sunday for an update about the emergency situation in lower Puna after lava from Kilauea volcano crossed Highway 137 and entered the ocean Saturday night. Tribune-Herald.

On Sunday, May 20, 2018, Sen. Mazie K. Hirono visited with Hawaii Island residents who have been displaced by volcanic activity in lower Puna. Big Island Now.

===MORE VOLCANO NEWS AT HAWAII ISLAND CATEGORY===

The late U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka was remembered Saturday not only as a national political figure but as a devoted father, a man of musical talent and a person of deep spirituality.  Star-Advertiser.

Akaka

'An amazing life': Hundreds gather to say aloha to the late Sen. Dan Akaka. Hawaii News Now.

Hundreds gather for US Senator Daniel K. Akaka's celebration of life at Kawaihao Church. KHON2.

The late U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka was memorialized Friday at the state Captiol in Honolulu, where was scheduled to lie in state for 24 hours. Pacific Business News.

SLIDESHOW: Hawaii Bids A Final Aloha To Sen. Daniel Akaka. Civil Beat.

Flooding renews interest in climate-change planning. Recent flooding in East Oahu and North Kauai, which sustained an estimated $20 million in damage, not including homes and businesses, has provided a glimpse of what climate change could look like and could add to the sense of urgency across the state. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

State bans swimming at Haseko lagoon. The water quality of a 52-acre basin at Hoakalei Resort residences in Ewa Beach is better than at popular swimming spots including Magic Island, Lanikai and Ko Olina. Star-Advertiser.

Work on beach groin awaits state funding. The crumbling Royal Hawaiian groin, between the Waikiki Sheraton and Royal Hawaiian hotels, is all that is keeping a prime section of Hawaii’s most visited beach from being swept away. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu’s Vanishing Crosswalks: Why The City Is Taking Them Out. The city has removed 34 crosswalks since September 2016, despite protests from some neighborhood groups. Civil Beat.

Lime said it is temporarily suspending its electric scooter-sharing service in Honolulu on Friday, following the city’s announcement that the company is in violation of state and city laws for failing to register the scooters as mopeds. Pacific Business News.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell vetoed a bill Friday that would have prohibited the administration from implementing bulb-outs, essentially curbside extensions, at five Chinatown locations. Star-Advertiser.

Several dozen people lined the sidewalk near the Duke Kahanamoku statue in Waikiki Saturday to protest the city’s awarding of a contract to run concession stands offering surf lessons and outrigger canoe rides to a new vendor, ousting a longtime business providing beachboy services. Star-Advertiser.

United Airlines Resists Honolulu Workers’ Effort To Unionize. Most employees in the Honolulu catering department are from islands in Micronesia and rely on flight benefits to go home. Civil Beat.

Three monk seals mysteriously die on Oahu. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Early morning eruption belches more ash from Kilauea. Star-Advertiser.

Explosions continue at the summit of Kilauea, prompting warnings about the threat of ashfall that could reach nearby communities. Hawaii News Now.


On Sunday the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory issued a new Kilauea Volcano air quality warning — this time about “laze,” short for lava haze. Star-Advertiser.

“Laze,” the noxious, potentially deadly gas caused by hot lava hitting the ocean, could have a potentially widespread effect in lower Puna, according to a Hawaiian Volcano Observatory official. Tribune-Herald.

A volcano that is oozing, spewing and exploding on Hawaii’s Big Island has gotten more hazardous in recent days, with rivers of molten rock flowing into the ocean and flying lava causing the first major injury. Associated Press.

Volcano enters ocean, causes new health hazard of "laze". KITV.

The idea that Kilauea is normally a docile volcano that erupts lava flows has been altered due to recent research, scientists say. Big Island Video News.

Two-story lava wall cuts off parts of Highway 137, impacting thousands. Hawaii News Now.

Affordable rents will bring some Lower Puna residents back home. Star-Advertiser.

Three weeks after Mayor Harry Kim suffered his fifth heart attack, he’s moved behind the scenes but remains unapologetic about a comment he made during his last public appearance Monday. West Hawaii Today.

Kohala Councilman Tim Richards is attempting something that rarely happens in Hawaii County government — he wants to lower taxes. West Hawaii Today.

Kohala Councilman Tim Richards wants to zero out Mass Transit’s general fund budget, leaving county officials wondering how they will keep the buses running at all, much less on time. West Hawaii Today.

Maui


Gov. David Ige will be the third speaker in the Nisei Veterans Memorial Center Leadership Series of talks on June 9. Maui News.

Affordable housing is topic of forum. Maui News.

The state Department of Taxation reports that a Maui physician was arrested on Thursday for alleged tax violations. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kauai’s first medical marijuana dispensary got the green light Friday to begin sales on the Garden Isle. Star-Advertiser.

The Quest To Rebuild An Old Russian Fort On Kauai — And Meet Putin. But a UH archaeologist says the Russian presence was minimal — and any plan should focus on the fort’s place in Native Hawaiian history. Civil Beat.

Staff, board sought for new school. Garden Island.

Molokai

Friendly Isle residents cope with seed company closure. Loss of 78 Molokai jobs equivalent to nearly 2,500 on Maui, over 14,000 on Oahu. Maui News.

Military response formed for Kilauea volcano emergency as earthquakes rattle summit, plumes shoot into air, ash fallout warnings issued, plus $140M state psychiatric hospital plans unveiled, details on Akaka memorial service, new super PAC with rail ties, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Deputy Adjutant Gen. Gary Ishikawa, l, and Brig. Gen. Kenneth Hara address the media. PC: Big Island Video News

Hawaii governor forms command to 'streamline military response' to Kilauea volcano eruption on Big Island. Pacific Business News.

Joint Task Force 50 in position to support county government. Tribune-Herald.

Brig. Gen. Kenneth Hara spoke to media at the Keaukaha Military Reserve on Wednesday afternoon, announcing the approval of the request for the Joint Task Force 50. Big Island Video News.

Press Release: Gov. David Y. Ige has announced the formation of a Dual-Status Command, Joint Task Force 50 (JTF) in response to the Kilauea lava flow on Hawai‘i Island. Gov. Ige’s formal request to appoint Brig. Gen. Kenneth Hara was submitted on Tuesday, May 15 and approved by Secretary of Defense James N. Mattis earlier today. Governor's Office.

An explosive eruption from Kilauea's summit on Thursday morning sent an ash plume soaring some 30,000 feet into the air, and officials are warning that ash emissions will cover a large part of the Big Island. Hawaii News Now.

Explosive eruption at Kilauea summit; those in area advised to shelter in place amidst ash plume. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Volcano Observatory officials on Thursday confirmed that an explosive eruption occurred at the summit of Kilauea. As a result, the National Weather Service issued an ashfall advisory for the Ka'u District of the Big Island. Officials say the ash plume reached 25,000 feet. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiian Volcano Observatory reports that an explosive eruption at Kilauea summit has occurred at 4:17 a.m.. The resulting ash plume may affect the surrounding areas.  The wind may carry the ash plume north towards Kau, Volcano, Mt. View, Keaau and as far as Hilo. KITV.

A series of sharp, shallow earthquakes rattled the summit area of Kilauea volcano Wednesday morning, and the gray plume from an ash eruption at the summit crater continued to distribute volcanic ash as far away as Kau and Pahoa village. Star-Advertiser.

Earthquakes Batter Roads As More Ash Spews From Kilauea. The state is forming a joint task force to handle mass evacuations of the Puna district if lava flows cover major roads and isolates the area. Associated Press.

Emergency officials are keeping a close eye on Highway 11 after cracks appeared Wednesday on the road near the entrance to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. KHON2.

Kilauea’s summit was rocked by shallow earthquakes Wednesday as the volcano’s caldera inside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park subsides along with its magma chamber. Tribune-Herald.

Volcanic gas emissions remain elevated throughout the area downwind of the fissures, and magma continues to be supplied to the lower East Rift Zone. Big Island Video News.

Geologists: Kilauea is no Mount St. Helens. Hawaii News Now.

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A petition urging Hawaii Gov. David Ige to sign a bill into law that would prohibit the sale of sunscreens containing certain ingredients found to be harmful to marine life is gaining traction, having garnered close to its goal of 40,000 signatures. Pacific Business News.

New Super PAC With Pro-Rail Ties Emerges In Hawaii Elections. The group, All Hawaii Stand Together, has ties to the pro-rail Pacific Resource Partnership that has been a big player in past elections. Civil Beat.

The late U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka will lie in state at the Capitol rotunda Friday and Saturday and be eulogized during two public services and one private service before being laid to rest at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific at Punchbowl. Star-Advertiser.

The family of the late Sen. Daniel Akaka released new information on Wednesday concerning the schedule for his memorial service. Hawaii News Now.

Plans for the construction of a new Hawaii State Hospital facility were unveiled today. Hawaii Public Radio.

Architects, designers and state health officials Wednesday pledged that a new Hawaii State Hospital in Kaneohe would be more secure, safer for staff and better suited to help patients with mental health issues who are court ordered for treatment. Star-Advertiser.

Security upgrades planned at State Hospital in wake of high-profile escape. Hawaii News Now.

Press Release: Governor David Ige and the Hawaii Department of Health today unveiled the security features for a new, $140 million, state-of-the-art Hawaii State Hospital building to enhance the safety of patients, employees and the community. Governor's Office.

Health department director Dr. Virginia Pressler looks forward to retirement. Dr. Virginia Pressler announced last week that she will be retiring after three and a half years with the state Department of Health. KHON2.

Oahu

Lawsuit: Managers Took Bribes At Low-Income Rentals. Executives at a Hawaii property management company say the allegations are false and upsetting. Civil Beat.

Pacific Office Properties considering shutdown. A local company that owns three Honolulu office tower properties lost more money in the first quarter and let investors know its board is considering alternatives that could include dissolution. Star-Advertiser.

‘Lime’ Rental Scooters Invade Honolulu With Mixed Results. The new motorized rental scooters are appearing on sidewalks in Honolulu, but the mayor is not pleased. Civil Beat.

Honolulu home prices rose by 4 percent in April, and Hawaii’s largest market was one of the few in the United States where inventory is growing, according to the May National Housing Report from Re/Max. Pacific Business News.

“Faith Betrayed,” a Honolulu Civil Beat story about Guam’s reckoning with the torturous legacy of decades of sexual abuse by local priests, has been awarded the Sally Jacobsen International Perspective Award from the Associated Press Media Editors. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Lava burning up tourism: Economic impact to Hawaii Island could be worse than thought. West Hawaii Today.

No-Entry Zone Established for Hawaii Electric Light Crews in Leilani Estates. Big Island Now.

No-entry zone established for Hawaii Electric Light crews in Leilani Estates. KHON2.

The eruptions in lower Puna won't seem to let up as several older fissures continue to reignite, shooting lava into the air. Hawaii News Now.

Cultural practitioner performs oli (chant) in honor of goddess Pele. While the eruptions along the East Rift Zone and volcanic activity at Halemaumau Crater are awe-inspiring, they are also significant to the Hawaiian culture. KHON2.

The Hawaii Tribune-Herald donated warehouse space to the American Red Cross for its ongoing lava disaster relief efforts. Tribune-Herald.

Oahu Publications Inc., the parent company of the Honolulu Star-Advertiser and the Hawaii Tribune-Herald, is providing warehouse space to the American Red Cross in Hilo for the storage of goods to be used at its shelters. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

Preparing to serve up environmentally friendly plate lunches. Ban on polystyrene foam products takes effect Dec. 31. Maui News.

Vodka maker purchases Maui pineapple farm. Principals of a California-based maker and distributor of distilled spirits have bought a pineapple farm on Maui that was once part of a more than 100-year-old plantation. Star-Advertiser.

New ownership announced for Haliimaile Pineapple Co. Company acquisition ensures Maui Gold pineapple will continue. Maui News.

The owners of Haliimaile Distilling Co. have purchased Haliimaile Pineapple Co., producers of Maui Gold pineapple in Hawaii. Pacific Business News.

Hawaiian Airlines started new daily nonstop flights Wednesday between Maui’s Kahului Airport and San Diego International Airport. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

The County Council approved the purchase of property along the Hanalei River Wednesday. Garden Island.

Water quality has cleaned up in some areas on Kauai’s North Shore after the April floods, but the state Department of Health still has a brown water advisory for some places on the island. Garden Island.

Mud is smothering the coral in Hanalei Bay, according to one resident who explored the reef there Saturday. Garden Island.

Kauai's legislators are slated to be at the Lihue Business Association meeting 7:30 to 9 a.m. May 24 at Duke’s Canoe Club. Garden Island.

Kilauea spews ash as lava eruptions continue, Legislature mulls special session to help residents in volcano crisis, Akaka to lie in state Friday, Waikiki beachboys don't give up, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Ash spews from Kilauea volcano PC: J. Wei

Hawaii Legislature might reconvene to address lava crisis. The housing and transportation crisis caused by lava from Kilauea volcano have some state legislators considering a special session to find and fund potential solutions. Tribune-Herald.

As ash billows from summit, geologists say ‘big one’ still possible. An enormous ash cloud towered above Kilauea’s summit Tuesday and dusted downwind communities, but the expulsion was short of the “big one” that could eject boulders inside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Tribune-Herald.

Plumes of ash shoot miles into air at summit crater, but 'big one' hasn't happened yet. Hawaii News Now.

The Kilauea summit stole the show Tuesday as volcanic activity within Halemaumau Crater launched an ash cloud that sent debris 12,000 feet into the air and prompted warnings for aircraft in the area. Star-Advertiser.

Ashfall Advisory For Kau Lingers Into Wednesday. Big Island Video News.

The number of fissures related to the ongoing eruption of the Kilauea volcano on Hawaii's Big Island increased to 20 on Tuesday, while authorities issued an ashfall advisory for a second consecutive day for the area on the island southwest of the volcano's summit amid concerns about air quality. Pacific Business News.

Live webcam photos from Halemaumau Crater at Kilauea Volcano. Star-Advertiser.

Don't believe the rumors, officials say major tsunami 'extremely unlikely'. KHON2.

Eruption-induced tsunami unlikely, experts say. The threat of a deadly tsunami — to residents of Hawaii island and the rest of the state — appears to be the least of the concerns amid eruptions, spewing lava and all of the seismic activity rocking Lower Puna. Star-Advertiser.

==More VOLCANO news under Hawaii Island category below==

Late U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka to lie in state before private burial. Senator Akaka will lie in state in the Hawaii State Capitol rotunda for 24 hours, from Friday, May 18 at 10 a.m. until Saturday, May 19 at 10 a.m. KHON2.

Hawaii’s largest public pension fund rode out the recent stock market correction with a 0.7 percent loss in its fiscal third quarter to remain on track to hit its 7 percent investment target for the fiscal year. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii firearm permits, registrations decreased by over 20 percent in 2017. Hawaii News Now.

Firearms registered statewide dropped nearly 24 percent last year and mirrored national statistics, the state Attorney General’s Office reported Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

HMSA loses $17.6M in quarter; Kaiser posts smaller profit. Hawaii Medical Service Association continues to blame its financial losses on the federal Affordable Care Act, which has expanded the number of people with health insurance across the nation. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu City Council leaders have hashed out a plan to cover the city’s $44 million share of rail costs next year, with a budget maneuver they say will spare Oahu from millions of dollars in service cuts and appease the transit project’s federal partners. Civil Beat.

Honolulu rail officials explore public-private partnership options for project. Pacific Business News.

Latest city budget draft includes new positions. Funding to hire additional paramedics, firefighters, zoning inspectors and stream cleaners is included in the latest draft of the city’s $2.61 billion operating budget, which was passed Tuesday by the City Council Budget Committee. Star-Advertiser.

City Council Budget Committee Funds Ambulance, Pensacola Bike Lane and DPP Inspectors. The Honolulu City Council conducted a special budget committee meeting on the executive branch financial plan today. Hawaii Public Radio.

Supporters of two operators of Waikiki beachboys stands held a peaceful protest this morning after the city ordered them to vacate their concessions. Star-Advertiser.

'We're going to fight': Beach boys defy city's order to leave Kuhio Beach. Hawaii News Now.

East Oahu residents say city failed to document dozens of flood-damaged homes. Hawaii News Now.

Electric scooter rental company Lime continued a fourth day of Honolulu operations with a depleted fleet Tuesday along with a hope that police will stop impounding the vehicles Lime leaves on sidewalks for rent. Star-Advertiser.

Sales of luxury properties on Oahu — defined as single-family homes and condominiums selling for $1.5 million and more — nearly doubled in April, when compared to the same month in 2017, according to a report by Coldwell Banker Pacific Properties. Pacific Business News.

Ward Village developer breaks ground on central plaza. Star-Advertiser.

Former Delaware death row inmate Isaiah McCoy told a federal judge Tuesday that he will not pursue the insanity defense in his upcoming trial for sex trafficking after all and that he wants the judge, not a jury, to decide his case. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Volcano blasts through county budget. It’s all hands on deck during a lava emergency, and there’s plenty of overtime, too. West Hawaii Today.

The Volcano Is Wiping Out Property Values And County Coffers. Losses are mounting in the hundreds of millions of dollars as Kilauea pushes molten lava through neighborhoods. Civil Beat.

Big Island businesses face layoffs, losses as visitor cancellations mount. Hawaii News Now.

The Latest: Updates from the Kilauea Volcano eruption. KITV.

DOT: Highway 130 partially reopened past Malama Street. Tribune-Herald.

6 pm Eruption Update: Fissure 6 Near Leilani And Pohoiki Active Again. Big Island Video News.

7 P.M. UPDATE: Civil Defense Update on Kilauea Eruption. Big Island Now.

Displaced residents at Red Cross shelter make do in tents. Star-Advertiser.

As lava destroys Hawaii homes, owners ask, Am I covered? Associated Press.

The state Board of Land and Natural Resources voted Friday to approve administrative fines against Henry K. Pomroy, Bill A. Fujimoto and Ho‘okupu Fish Co. LLC, regarding instances of illegal commercial lava boat tours on Hawaii Island. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui Firearm Permits Down 26%, Registrations Drop 27%. Maui Now.

The Hawaii Department of Health has identified a case of mumps in a Maui resident who reportedly traveled to Oahu. Maui Now.

Kauai

The discovery of Rapid Ohia Death on Kauai has kicked up the timing on statewide surveillance efforts, and invasive species groups across the main Hawaiian Islands are increasing the time spent on research into the disease. Garden Island.

Meeting eyes 253-lot subdivision. A program on Kealia Mauka Homesites is on tap for Saturday. Garden Island.

Kauai War Memorial Convention Hall is set to reopen Friday, for limited use. Garden Island.

Flood insurance policy holders impacted by the recent disaster are getting answers about their claims. Garden Island.

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson immediately put his hands to work when he landed on Kauai last week, helping with flood relief efforts. Garden Island.

Kauai faith leaders, along with Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr., met Tuesday afternoon at Aloha Church to unload a gift for flood victims. Garden Island.

Legislative committees begin budget negotiations, Ige picks Hashimoto to fill Souki's House seat, Molokai leprosy memorial project approved, Kauai taxpayers get tax filing relief as they dig out from floods, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Monk seal pup with knife PC: Hawaii DLNR

Endangered monk seal pup spotted with knife; but all is OK. West Hawaii Today.

The state House and Senate on Tuesday began public discussions on next year’s budget, which is expected to total more than $14 billion. Star-Advertiser.

State Office of Information Practices: Funding Denied, Again. The State Budget is in a joint conference committee this week to work out Senate and House differences. Hawaii Public Radio.

Lawmakers May Expand Definition Of Drugged Driving. A measure to ensure that driving under the influence of marijuana remains illegal also addresses other substances. Civil Beat.

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Gov. David Ige has appointed Troy Hashimoto, former chairman of the Maui Democratic Party, to the Maui House seat vacated by Joseph Souki, who resigned last month to resolve sexual harassment allegations. Star-Advertiser.

Governor Selects Replacement For Vacant Hawaii House Spot. Troy Hashimoto will take former speaker Joe Souki’s Maui post. Associated Press.

Governor David Ige picked Troy Hashimoto to replace Joe Souki in the State House of Representatives Tuesday. KITV.

Ige appoints Hashimoto to serve remainder of Souki’s House term. Appointment follows Souki’s resignation in late March over sexual harassment charges. Maui News.

=====

With less than four months until the primary election, three candidates vying for the U.S. House seat representing urban Honolulu raised more than $200,000 each in the first three months of the year. Star-Advertiser.

The late U.S. Sen. Daniel K. Akaka will lie in state at Hawaii’s Capitol rotunda prior to his memorial services next month. Star-Advertiser.

Late U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka to lie in state before private burial. KHON2.

Whose Side Is This Workers’ Comp Doctor On? Chris Brigham has exerted major influence on how Hawaii’s insurers treat injured workers claims. Critics say he has mostly made it easier to slash benefits. Civil Beat.

Oahu

State lawmakers passed a bill Tuesday aimed at remedying a sore spot among drivers and businesses in Kakaako. The measure, House Bill 2275, would require that owners of private roads in the area pay to conform with city standards if they charge for parking on those streets. Star-Advertiser.

City Council Planning Chairman Ikaika Anderson said Tuesday he is looking at introducing legislation giving city officials clear authority to tear down structures that are built while under a stop-work order for constructing without a building permit. Star-Advertiser.

New Waikiki senior apartments blessed. A nonprofit developer with heavy government financing held a blessing Tuesday for a new affordable rental apartment building expected to welcome its first residents early next month. Star-Advertiser.

Man released after deadly shooting in Ewa Beach, but will self-defense claim hold?  KHON2.

Olomana Golf Links owed the state of Hawaii more than $110,000 when the operator of the 18-hole Windward Oahu golf course closed last week without notice. Pacific Business News.

Dennis “Bumpy” Kanahele, head of the sovereign Nation of Hawaii, envisions Olomana golf course as site for homeless. Star-Advertiser.

3 Oahu homes destroyed, dozens more damaged in Oahu flooding. At least 67 Oahu homes were seriously impacted by the weekend's heavy rains that caused flooding in several areas on the east side of the island. Hawaii News Now.

The Board of Water Supply crews are working tonight to repair a 24-inch water main break near the entrance to Waimanalo Gulch Landfill in the westbound shoulder of Farrington Highway. Star-Advertiser.

Whole Foods sets opening date for new Kakaako location. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

If each man, woman and child living on the Big Island dug into a pocket and handed over his or her share of the cost of operating county government, that amount would be $2,449. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii County Council Committee on Finance began its week of department budget and program reviews on Tuesday in Hilo, starting with the traditional opening presentation from the mayor. Big Island Video News.

The state attorney general’s office executed a search warrant at Ka'u Learning Academy on Tuesday morning, school leaders confirmed Tuesday. Tribune-Herald.

Residents packed a public meeting on Saturday to sound off on satellite launch project representatives who were eyeing Ka'u as a potential location. Big Island Video News.

Police officers and staff at the Kealakehe police station have been working on a plan to remove feral chickens as their presence has become annoying. West Hawaii Today.

The restroom facilities at Glenwood Park on the Big Island have been temporarily closed after thieves stole utility equipment from the park site. Hawaii News Now.

Kilauea Volcano Showing Signs of Increased Activity. Big Island Now.

Maui

The southern terminus of the Lahaina bypass will open about 6 a.m. Monday, the state Department of Transportation announced. All northbound traffic will be routed to the bypass at the southern terminus, which starts at “cut mountain” near Olowalu. Maui News.

High Enterococci Bacteria Count at Hanakaoo. Maui Now.

Environmental assessment is approved for memorial project honoring the 8,000 people sent to Kalaupapa. Completion and opening targeted for October 2020. Maui News.

Kauai

Gov. David Ige has directed the state Department of Taxation to provide relief for Kauai residents affected by the devastating floods and landslides. Garden Island.

Kauai residents get extension to file state tax returns. Hawaii News Now.

It could be weeks before roads on Kauai's north shore reopen. Hawaii News Now.

State explains what needs to happen before Kuhio Hwy. can reopen on Kauai. KHON2.

The devastation is all around in hard-hit Wainiha, but so is hope. Garden Island.

Hanalei residents cleaning up, assessing damage. Garden Island.

Westside ohana boats in supplies to flood victims. Garden Island.

Molokai

Environmental assessment is approved for memorial project honoring the 8,000 people sent to Kalaupapa. Completion and opening targeted for October 2020. Maui News.

Agribusiness Development Corp. resists audit, cracking down on unlicensed elder care homes, former AG Bennett welcomed by U.S. Senate, Thirty Meter Telescope future up in the air, Kauai to sue Big Pharm over opioid abuse, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hilo Farmers Market ©2018 All Hawaii News

State Agribusiness Agency Says It’s Too Busy To Be Audited. Lawmakers may expand the power of the Agribusiness Development Corp. even as its officials try to stave off a review of its operations. Civil Beat.

Bill Would Allow Crackdown On Unlicensed Care Homes. The unauthorized facilities proliferated while the Health Department failed to establish rules on which ones need licenses. Civil Beat.

The House Health and Human Services Committee is trying to pass a bill to put illegal care homes out of business. Civil Beat.

New bill looks to close complicated loophole for kupuna care facilities. Hawaii News Now.

The 6th Kupuna Power Day will be held at the State Capitol Thursday. This year's event is dedicated to the late Sen. Daniel Akaka who was a champion for kupuna care across Hawaii. KHON2.

=====

A controversial bill that has the astronomy community on edge might have violated the state Senate’s own rules since it was crafted without time for a public hearing. But that might have little consequence since legislators say the chamber can bend or ignore them essentially at will. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii lawmakers discuss sexual harassment complaint reforms. Women lawmakers at the Hawaii state Capitol want the House and Senate to update rules on handling sexual harassment complaints — a push that comes amid high-profile misconduct allegations nationwide and after a former Hawaii House speaker resigned after acknowledging inappropriate behavior toward women. Associated Press.

Trump’s Federal Judge Nominee For Hawaii Gets Warm Reception In DC. Mark Bennett, the former state AG under Hawaii’s last Republican governor, received bipartisan accolades during his Senate confirmation hearing. Civil Beat.

Sen. Schatz Introduces Court of Appeals Nominee Mark Bennett. Big Island Now.

Hawaii Senators participated in the questioning of Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg in Washington on Tuesday. Big Island Video News.

While a few governors have said they oppose President Donald Trump’s plan to send up to 4,000 National Guard troops to the border with Mexico, Hawaii Gov. David Ige’s office said he’s taking a wait-and-see approach and that no such request has come in. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Department of Health officials confirmed Wednesday there were two additional rat lungworm disease cases in the state. The cases involve an adult Maui resident and an adolescent visiting Hawaii island from New York. Star-Advertiser.

Rat Lungworm Confirmed in Maui and Mainland Resident. Maui Now.

Luxury homes on Hawaii’s Kona Coast sold faster and for a higher average price than on other islands last year, while Oahu has seen a reduction in prices and an increase in the number of days those high-end homes are on the market, according to a market index report by Concierge Auctions. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Council Leaders, Mayor Caldwell Will Talk With Feds In DC About Rail Funding. Honolulu Council Chair Ernie Martin and Budget Chair Trevor Ozawa, who proposed big cuts in the city budget to raise rail funds, will travel with the mayor to the Capitol. Civil Beat.

Oahu farmland purchased by state in 2013 site of massive dump site. Hawaii News Now.

Officials from the city, state, Kamehameha Schools and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration unveiled a dramatic, 10-foot high banner at the steps of Honolulu Hale Wednesday to hammer home the threat that tsunamis can wreak across the islands at any moment. Star-Advertiser.

Some riders of TheBus will begin today to help the city determine if switching to electric buses makes sense. Star-Advertiser.

A demonstration at Iolani Palace Wednesday showcased electric buses that could be considered when the state looks to implement passenger shuttles between the terminal and rental car facility at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport later this year. KHON2.

3-foot tall concrete wall that snakes along Kalakaua Avenue fronting the old Waikiki 3 theater will be knocked down Thursday morning. Police and businesses say the wall has been a magnet for criminal behavior. Hawaii News Now.

The federal government’s dispute with the city for its handling of abandoned vehicles is officially over. A U.S. District judge dismissed the federal government’s lawsuit against the city Monday. Star-Advertiser.

Lawsuit dismissed after changes made for vehicles of active-duty service members. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Bolstered by a state recalculation that shows a half-cent general excise tax surcharge would give the county twice what was originally thought, Mayor Harry Kim has resumed lobbying the County Council to pass it. West Hawaii Today.

TMT decision faces delay. The TMT International Observatory board, which for months has been saying it would decide by April whether to build the Thirty Meter Telescope in Hawaii, is meeting at its Pasadena headquarters this week. Newspapers in Spain and the Canary Islands — home to TMT’s backup site — last month reported that members of the TMT governing board assured local officials that the decision about where to build the $1.4 billion observatory would be delayed until November. Star-Advertiser.

Employees at Royal Kona Resort aren’t on strike — yet. A few dozen staff members clad in red and waving picket signs rallied on Kahakai Road fronting the hotel Wednesday afternoon. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Large mound of nets that washed up on Maui's Black Sand Beach to be removed. Hawaii News Now.

The state plans to close Waianapanapa State Park in Hana, Maui, on Thursday morning to remove a large pile of cargo nets that washed ashore about two weeks ago during a recent northeast swell, according to the Department of Land and Natural Resources. Star-Advertiser.

East Maui residents at odds over new Paia bypass proposal. Many prefer the use of old cane roads owned by A&B instead of the DOT’s proposed route. Maui News.

A measure vastly different from the one initially introduced that puts the onus on Maui County to recoup government funds expended on the Front Street Apartments affordable housing project passed the state House on Tuesday. Maui News.

Maui High’s day care, teen parents programs in limbo. Nonprofit offers a $20,000 grant, but portable buildings top $100,000. Maui News.


Kauai

The County of Kauai is planning to sue the manufacturers, marketers and distributors of opioids. Reminiscent of lawsuits against big tobacco companies, Kauai County will be the first county in Hawaii to pursue this type of litigation.  Garden Island.

Kauai County is the first in the state to take legal action against the makers, marketers and distributors of opioid pain medications. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai County's "opioid litigation" aims to sue prescription drug companies. KITV.

The Kauai Rural Health Association is bringing the conference “Opioid Crisis: What You Should Know” to Kauai Community College on Thursday, May 17. Garden Island.

KCC Medical Assistant Program gains national approval. Garden Island.

Molokai

Oral Arguments Set on 1993 Water Use Permit for Molokai Ranch Subsidiary. Maui Now.