Where's the GOP? Campaigns kick off after filing deadline, entire neighborhoods lost to lava, Gabbard signs book deal, Japanese royalty visits Oahu, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Lava fills Kapoho Bay PC:USGS

Late Moves Shake Up Hawaii Races For Governor, Congress. While half of the state legislative seats have just one candidate in the primary, many others will be competitive. Civil Beat.

Isle GOP’s collapse makes primary critical. In a state where one party dominates as much as the Democrats do in Hawaii, the next 67 days of campaigning leading up to the primary will decide just about everything. Star-Advertiser.

State Rep. Cedric Gates, the youngest state legislator in Hawaii, thinks the best way to get young voters to the polls is to put them in office. Hawaii News Now.

Ed Case joins crowded race for Congress, but some see him as a front-runner. Former Congressman Ed Case kicked off his campaign for Congress on Tuesday by sign waving in east Oahu. Hawaii News Now.

Former Democratic Congressman Ed Case has joined the race for the U.S. House of Representatives, an 11th-hour move that could shake up the contest for the seat being vacated by U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa, who is competing to become Hawaii’s next governor. Star-Advertiser.

Former Congressman Ed Case, a native of Hilo and a graduate of Hawaii Preparatory Academy, is lacing up his running shoes after six years on the political sidelines. West Hawaii Today.

Tulsi Gabbard Is Writing A Book. The Hawaii congresswoman has signed with a high-profile literary agency that says it represents “presidential contenders.” Civil Beat.

Hawaii has the ninth-worst state economy in the nation, according to a WalletHub report, “2018’s Best & Worst State Economies,” released Monday. Star-Advertiser.

While Hawaii has the lowest unemployment rate in the nation, its overall economy is the ninth worst among all 50 states and the District of Columbia, according to a new report. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

This Sludge Pit Plan Gets Little Love In Manoa. Critics question why the state didn’t conduct an environmental review for the Manoa Stream dredging project. Civil Beat.

Coco Palms developer Chad Waters was cited by the Department of Health in late March for a reported environmental infraction at his Sound Investments LLC development on Oahu. Garden Island.

Lawsuit filed against Zippy's restaurants after data breach. Associated Press.

Ride-hailing service Uber sent emails to customers and drivers urging them to reach out to the Honolulu City Council and push back on a bill that would place more restrictions on the transportation network company and similar operations. Hawaii News Now.

Federal investigators say the single-engine aircraft that crashed in a mountainous area on Oahu, killing all four people on board last year, was over its weight limit when it took off. Associated Press.

The Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii was full of hustle and bustle Tuesday in preparation for a morning visit by Prince Akishino, the second son of Japan’s Emperor Akihito, and his wife, Princess Kiko. Star-Advertiser.

Lime, the bike and scooter sharing company that created a stir in Honolulu before pulling out of the market, is raising about $250 million in a funding round led by Google Ventures. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

June 5 lava fountain PC:USGS

Gov. David Ige has signed a second emergency proclamation, focusing on housing needs and beefing up violations of emergency rules to criminal penalties during the ongoing Kilauea eruption. Star-Advertiser.

Big Isle mayor’s vacation home destroyed by lava, county confirms. Final confirmation came early this evening that Mayor Harry Kim’s Vacationland home has been destroyed, according to Hawaii island managing director Wil Okabe. Star-Advertiser.

After losing his Vacationland home the night before in the lava flow, Hawaii County Mayor Harry Kim spoke to the public at the weekly meeting in Pahoa about the ongoing eruption. Big Island Video News.

A massive river of lava covered hundreds more homes overnight as it poured into the sea, filling all of Kapoho Bay and decimating entire neighborhoods. Hawaii News Now.

'Hang in people': Big Island Mayor Harry Kim offers words of encouragement to lava evacuees. Hawaii News Now.

Lava claims hundreds of Kapoho-area homes; destruction assessments continue. County agencies continued their assessments Tuesday of the destruction around Kapoho after most of Kapoho Beach Lots and Vacationland were buried by lava Monday night. Tribune-Herald.

Hundreds Of Additional Homes Lost To Lava. Most were in Kapoho Beach Lots and Vacationland. Meanwhile, lava has completely filled Kapoho Bay. Civil Beat.

Overflight Video: Lava Torches Hundreds of Homes. Big Island Now.

Kapoho Beach Lots and Vacationland Inundated with Lava. Hawaii Public Radio.

The lava flow that caused the sudden loss of Kapoho Bay in the past 48 hours has taken away properties, livelihoods and an iconic shoreline. Hawaii News Now.

Officials Create Housing Solutions for Displaced Residents. Big Island Now.

With lava from Fissure 8 pouring into Kapoho Bay, the current eruptive phase at Kilauea is pressing into its fifth week, and its effects are taking a toll. Hawaii Public Radio.

Lava from fissure 8 continued to fountain Tuesday night to heights consistent with those observed earlier in the day. Star-Advertiser.

A bill to regulate short-term rentals on Hawaii Island will get another go before the Hawaii County Planning Committee after more amendments were proposed on Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

After Eruption, Vacation Rental Bill Discussion Changes. The Hawaii County Council Planning Committee took up Bill 108, the day after lava destroyed almost all of Kapoho. Big Island Video News.

Expect a papaya shortage as lava destroys more farms. The Puna area is one of the largest producers of papayas. With farms there either destroyed or cut off by the lava, the price of the popular fruit could soon double. KHON2.

Along with the homes being destroyed, the latest lava flows have also cut off or covered cultural sites, important habitats and even popular recreation sites. KITV.

W.M. Keck Observatory officials on Monday notified the state Department of Health that they detected “a small seepage of oil” from the hydraulic system supporting the Keck I telescope and acted to contain the oil, according to a news release from the observatory. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii island’s housing prices soared in May, but the real estate market has taken a back seat to the daily drama affecting the livelihood of its residents. Star-Advertiser.

Sales of single-family homes on Hawaii’s Big Island fell 17 percent last month, compared to May 2017, but the median price of those homes jumped by 26 percent, while the median price of a Big island condominium soared 45 percent on 19 percent fewer sales. Pacific Business News.

Maui
There will be some changes to the paratransit fares and passes beginning July 1, according to Maui Economic Opportunity, which has the Maui County contract for the transportation service. Maui News.

Kauai

By Tuesday’s filing deadline, 24 candidates had officially filed to run for the Kauai County Council, while seven filed for the mayor’s seat. Garden Island.

A political forum featuring candidates for the lieutenant governor’s seat is set for Thursday at 6 p.m. at the Aqua Kauai Beach Resort. Garden Island.

Sales of single-family homes on Kauai declined in May, while sales of Garden Island condominiums grew and prices dropped, according to statistics from Hawaii Information Service on behalf of the Kauai Board of Realtors. Pacific Business News.

Lava nears geothermal plant, Ige closes Hanabusa's lead in poll, teachers union backs Gabbard's opponent, tight race for lieutenant governor, Big Island taxes could increase to pay for volcano response, Section 8 housing opens on Oahu, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Active lava flow from Kilauea volcano PC:USGS

Workers at the Puna Geothermal Venture power plant found themselves in a race against nature Monday as they attempted to seal off a particularly troublesome, deep geothermal well while lava from Kilauea Volcano advanced from the south to a point uncomfortably close to the well pad area. Star-Advertiser.

As lava breached the southern boundary of Puna Geothermal Venture on Monday, the head of a task force created to mitigate potential hazards at the power plant said efforts were underway to neutralize the last “active” well on the property. Tribune-Herald.

Big Island Lava Flows Reach Site Of Geothermal Plant. A naturally occurring berm has so far halted the flow’s advance, but officials warn if the lava does hit the plant’s underground wells it could trigger the release of poisonous gases. Civil Beat.

As active lava begins to encroach on the Puna Geothermal Venture property, officials are working to finish quenching, and hopefully plugging, wells on the site. Big Island Video News.

Lava flow enters Puna Geothermal Venture power plant on Hawaii's Big Island as authorities attempt to kill active wells (Video). Pacific Business News.

Vigorous lava flows continue to cascade into the ocean in lower Puna, creating large plumes of "laze" — clouds of toxic gas, steam and tiny glass particles — that could force nearby residents to evacuate at a moment's notice, authorities warned Monday. Hawaii News Now.

Explosions continue at the summit of Kilauea, prompting authorities to warn area residents about the threat of ashfall. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiian Volcano Observatory reports that a new explosive eruption at Kilauea summit at 3:45 a.m. Tuesday. KHON2.

=====

Civil Beat Poll: Hanabusa Leads Ige By 6 As Primary Draws Closer. The congresswoman had a narrower gap than earlier polls showed but the governor is still in trouble. Civil Beat.

Civil Beat Poll: Carvalho Ahead In Lieutenant Governor Race. It’s a close contest in a crowded field, with many voters still undecided. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Teachers Union Backs Gabbard Opponent For Congress. In its endorsement of challenger Sherry Campagna, the union sharply criticized Gabbard’s human rights record because of her stance on Syria. Civil Beat.

State Supreme Court upholds use tax. CompUSA had challenged the state’s use tax as unconstitutional since it applies only to out-of-state sellers. Star-Advertiser.

A key Domestic Violence bill failed to pass in the State Legislature this session and supporters want to know why. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii has a shortfall of nearly 30,000 licensed child care slots, according to a study by Child Care Aware of America. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

State reopens section 8 housing waitlist for the first time in 4 years. The voucher program waitlist for section 8 housing on Oahu will be opened next month for the first time in more than 4 years. Hawaii News Now.

The City and County of Honolulu is opening the wait list for the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program. KHON2.

A company trying to build what would be the third wind farm on Oahu’s North Shore has obtained its last discretionary state approval after a contentious proceeding and almost five years of work. Star-Advertiser.

Dozens of trees in Manoa to get the ax as part of stream dredging project. Hawaii News Now.

University of Hawaii leadership is resurrecting efforts to recombine the University of Hawaii Travel Industry Management School with the Shidler College of Business Administration, a move that has been heavily debated over the last decade. Star-Advertiser.

Scientists are waiting for lab results to help determine what caused the recent death of three Hawaiian monk seals on Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Property tax hikes could be back on the table, as county expenses increase even as property values erode, thanks to lava inundation in Puna. West Hawaii Today.

Lava prompts election officials to mail absentee voting applications. Tribune-Herald.

Cruise ship Pride of America cancels Hawaii Island visits for second week. West Hawaii Today.

Puna farmers affected by the volcanic activity on Hawaii Island were set to meet Monday night to learn about the assistance programs that are being available to them lava damages their crops – and their bottom line. Hawaii News Now.

Poverty, illness compound problems for Puna community. Star-Advertiser.

Volcanic emissions drive up ER visits on Hawaii Island. Hawaii News Now.

As the Kilauea eruption continues to make national headlines, organizers of the Ironman are urging triathletes not to cancel their travel plans. Hawaii News Now.

Prosecutor talks challenges law enforcement faces. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui County’s jobless rate dropped to 2 percent in April, the same as the state’s overall rate, a record low, according to the state Department of Labor and Industrial Relations. Maui News.

Kauai

Medical marijuana is now available for the first time on Kauai. The new dispensary in Kapaa opened Monday and is called Have a Heart, operated by Green Aloha Ltd. Garden Island.

Flood, volcano ‘postpone’ popular Taste of Hawaii. Garden Island.

End of an era for last Hawaii sugar plantation, Hawaiian Electric seeks land, Ige touts $10M for innovation, Caldwell outspent Djou 4-1 in Honolulu mayoral race, state Supreme Court dings Hilo judge for closing records, uranium plan completed for Pohakuloa, Diamond Head homeless eviction sought, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Sen. Brian Schatz at sugar mill as harvest, Facebook photo by Gilbert Keith-Agaran

The 36,000-acre Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Co. plantation in Puunene on Maui held its last harvest Monday with hundreds of former and current workers, families, public officials and community leaders in attendance, and the head of Hawaii’s last major sugar plantation may have summed up the day best when he quoted a Hawaiian poet by saying, “it is what it is.” Pacific Business News.

It started with two horn beeps delivered by Fermin Domingo from the cab of an 80-ton Tournahauler on Monday morning, and then the final load of sugar cane that likely will ever be produced on a plantation in Hawaii was fed into the mill of Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Co. Star-Advertiser.

Sugar workers, retirees and company officials expressed sadness as well as pride as they witnessed “an end of an era” Monday with the delivery of the last load of sugar cane from the fields to the Puunene Mill. Maui News.

Workers delivered the final truckload of cane to the state's last remaining sugar mill on Monday. Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Company held a commemoration event at its Puunene factory with an estimated 700 employees, retirees and community leaders. Hawaii News Now.

The only remaining sugar mill in Hawaii is ending its final harvest. Associated Press.

Gilbert Keith-Agaran

Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Company commemorates its final sugar harvest today (Monday, Dec. 12, 2016) following months of transition work. Maui Now.

Hawai’i’s last sugarcane harvest ended on Maui today and state leaders are asking, “What Next?”   That was the focus of a panel discussion. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Commercial & Sugar held a ceremony Monday for its final harvest.  HC&S is the last sugar plantation in Hawaii. KITV.

It’s the end of an era for Hawaii’s sugar industry, as the final sugar harvest in our state took place Monday morning in Puunene on Maui. KHON2.

===========================

Gov. David Ige has pledged to propose $10 million of the state budget be used to help build the innovation sector. Ige said he would request the funds be used for the state-run HI Growth Initiative, which was created to attract private investment to innovation in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

State and county employers likely will have to contribute more money into the Hawaii Employees’ Retirement System as early as July 1. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. David Ige has appointed two state employees as the new deputy directors for the state Department of Budget and Finance and the Department of Human Resources Development. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric Co. said Monday it is looking for land to build more renewable-energy projects. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric Co. is looking to expand its renewable energy portfolio with more large-scale projects, the Honolulu-based utility said this week. Pacific Business News.

Hawaiian Electric Companies announced a search for land to house potential renewable energy production. The request for information comes from Hawaiian Electric, Maui Electric Company and the Hawaii Electric Light Co. Tribune-Herald.

Tulsi Gabbard For President? A reporter for The New Yorker suggests 13 women candidates for 2020. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Caldwell Outspent Djou Nearly 4-to-1 In Honolulu Mayor’s Race. The mayor raised $3.6 million, and a super PAC kicked in nearly $1 million more to support his re-election bid. Civil Beat.

The ZipMobile broke down for at least the third time in as many years Monday, snarling the early- morning town-bound traffic on the H-1 freeway. Star-Advertiser.

The state is planning to evict homeless campers from more than 40 tent and tarp encampments on the slopes of the Diamond Head State Monument. Civil Beat.

Beach erosion reveals scattered bones at Mokuleia. Hawaii News Now.

Judge denies early release for firefighter in H-1 crash that killed officer. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The Hawaii Supreme Court on Monday issued an opinion that took issue with the way a state judge sealed documents in a criminal case, with the justices underscoring the need to protect confidential information while ensuring the public’s right to access judicial proceedings and records. Star-Advertiser.

A site-specific Environmental Radiation Monitoring Plan has been finalized for the Pohakuloa Training Area. Big Island Video News.

Nonexplosive but designed to fool passers-by is how police described a suspicious device that caused businesses to close and traffic rerouted Friday in downtown Kailua-Kona. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The Maui Department of Water Supply is working to resolve pumping issues in Wakiu, Hāna. Maui Now.

Hawai‘i’s Board of Land and Natural Resources approved a one-year permit to Alexander and Baldwin that will allow them to continue diverting water from streams in East Maui. Hawaii Public Radio.

The 36,000-acre Hawaiian Commercial and Sugar Co. plantation on Maui, which will close on Dec. 23 and effectively end the era of the sugar industry in Hawaii, will soon begin to see a major expansion of cattle ranching on the former cane fields, a company executive told Pacific Business News.

Maui County single-family homes continued their climb in value in November, while condominium prices fell compared with the same month last year, according to statistics released last week by the Realtors Association of Maui. Maui News.

Kauai

Island School’s proposal to reclassify land took a big step forward as the school submitted its petition to the State Land Use Commission. Garden Island.

Larry Richardson hopes the loaner life jacket station will save lives Saturday at the Nawiliwili Small Boat Harbor launch ramp. Garden Island.

Molokai

With the ferry no longer operating, a U.S. Coast Guard crew helped the Salvation Army deliver 800 toys and clothes to Molokai children on Friday. Maui News.

Hawaii Supreme Court knocks down Mauna Kea lawsuit, Visitors Bureau loses $1M check, Abe won't apologize for Pearl Harbor, predetermined outcome in Tsuji replacement vote, Kim returns as Big Island mayor, Cochran to run for Maui mayor, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Snow-capped Mauna Kea seen from Hilo © 2016 All Hawaii News

Hawaii’s Supreme Court has dismissed an appeal by opponents of a giant telescope project on Mauna Kea. Associated Press.

Tulsi Gabbard Faced Tough Questions In Dakota About Hawaiian Issues. The congresswoman was challenged when she said the Thirty Meter Telescope issue was resolved. She later said she personally opposes the project. Civil Beat.

Mayor Harry Kim signaled his intent to shape the future of Mauna Kea during his first inauguration in 12 years. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau was the victim of fraud while trying to pay for an expensive mainland marketing campaign. Sources say the Honolulu Police Department is investigating after a check, written for more than $1 million, was stolen late last month. Hawaii News Now.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe won't apologize for Japan's attack when he visits the U.S. naval base at Pearl Harbor later this month, the government spokesman said Tuesday. Associated Press.

President Barack Obama and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will make history on Dec. 27 when they meet at Pearl Harbor 75 years after the Japanese attack that launched America into war. Star-Advertiser.

Nearly 30 Pearl Harbor survivors took an emotional boat cruise into history Monday, returning to the scene where they witnessed death and carnage 75 years ago. Star-Advertiser.

Sixty-six World War II veterans of Japanese ancestry were honored Monday for “fighting two wars” — at home and overseas. Star-Advertiser.

The December 7th attack on Pearl Harbor 75 years ago resulted in 54 civilian casualties on O’ahu mostly caused by friendly fire. Hawaii Public Radio.

A revised federal law will transfer some power to individual states to determine how their schools should be reformed – and Hawaii principals want a piece of the action. Civil Beat.

There will be a new security point man at the Hawaii state House come January. Rod Tanonaka will assume the job of sergeant-at-arms Jan. 3, replacing Kevin Kuroda who held the position since 2003. Civil Beat.

Embattled Hawaii telecommunications company Sandwich Isles Communications now faces more than $49 million in fines that are being proposed by the Federal Communications Commission for allegedly misusing federal funds, according to the agency. Star-Advertiser.

Pacific Tuna Commission Gets To Work On Fishing Policies. Civil Beat.

More than 1,000 electric customers across the state have signed up for Hawaiian Electric Companies’ new Time-of-Use rates program. Maui Now.

Oahu

The Honolulu City Council may be getting a new boss. Councilman Ron Menor has proposed a reorganization plan that’s expected to have the support of at least four of the nine Council members. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell says the financial plan for rail has changed dramatically. KHON2.

Interest in Hawaiian Electric Co.’s time-of-use pilot program is growing. Star-Advertiser.

The 15th annual Waikiki Spam Jam Festival to take place next year is expected to bring in 25,000 guests and local residents to Kalakaua Avenue. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

Hawaii’s New Mayor Passes Gavel To New Council Chair. Big Island Video News.

For the third time in his career as a public servant, Harry Kim has pledged to again serve the people of Hawaii County as their mayor. Hawaii News Now.

The slate of finalists sent to the governor to pick a replacement for the late state Rep. Clift Tsuji was already decided before the public interviews and votes, according to a screen-shot of a text message obtained by the newspaper prior to Saturday’s voting. West Hawaii Today.

A feasibility study on a non-commercial marine fishing registry, permit or license system that was released Friday has laid the most stable groundwork to date for moving forward with an RPL system in Hawaii. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Councilmember Elle Cochran (West Maui) revealed in public statements made at an event on Oahu that she intends on running for Mayor of Maui County in 2018. Maui Watch.

Marine Corps veteran Alan DeCoite was searching for a downed World War II-era plane when he stumbled upon a different set of military artifacts, the likes of which he’d seen nowhere else. Maui News.

Kauai

For Nadine Nakamura, finding solutions to the Kapaa crawl and affordable housing, preserving cultural lands and supporting education are priorities for the House of Representatives this term. Garden Island.

Those who knew Charles Kawakami say he was a consummate businessman who had a deep connection to the Garden Isle.Garden Island.

Most incumbents keep seats, state Senate loses sole Republican, Hawaii holds for Hillary, Caldwell re-elected Honolulu mayor, new face on OHA board, more election news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Voting in general election © 2016 All Hawaii News

Statewide election summary here.

Without a native son on the ballot for president, Hawaii’s voter turnout dropped below the last presidential election year in 2012. With all but a handful of votes counted, 412,282 ballots were cast statewide, about 55 percent of Hawaii’s 749,917 registered voters. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii voters grappled with long lines and frustrating equipment malfunctions statewide Tuesday, as a larger-than-expected turnout appeared to overwhelm a number of polling places. Hawaii News Now.

Schatz, Gabbard, Hanabusa Win Big In Congressional Races. Colleen Hanabusa will rejoin the congressional delegation after winning two races on the general election ballot. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Democrats in the congressional races made election wins look easy Tuesday night, with U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz, U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard and former U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa all seizing and holding commanding leads from the first election returns. Star-Advertiser.

Former Honolulu City Councilman Stanley Chang ousted the Senate’s lone Republican Sam Slom on Tuesday night, making Hawaii the only state in the nation with an entirely Democratic state Senate. Star-Advertiser.

Chang Tops Slom In Race To Unseat Hawaii’s Only GOP Senator. Other than Slom and Pouha, incumbents fared well in legislative races. Rhoads, Gates, Holt and Nakamura won open seats. Civil Beat.

Hawaii has become the only state in the nation to have an all-Democrat legislative body. Hawaii News Now.

Keli‘i Akina, president of the Grassroot Institute of Hawaii, seemed headed for a surprising victory over Office of Hawaiian Affairs veteran Haunani Apoliona, after trailing narrowly in early returns. OHA Chairman Robert Lindsey defeated challenger Mililani Trask, 44.6 percent to 32.5 percent, with almost all votes counted. Associated Press.

Voters Split On Making Changes To State Constitution. Voters narrowly agreed to a measure involving excess state funds but turned down an increase in the financial threshold for jury trials. Civil Beat.

Incumbents cruised to victory in the neighbor island County Council races Tuesday night, although a few lost their seats, including veteran Kauai County Councilman Gary Hooser and Maui County Councilman Don Couch. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Incumbent Kirk Caldwell defeated former U.S. Rep. and City Councilman Charles Djou in the battle for Honolulu mayor Tuesday night. With nearly all the ballots counted before midnight, Caldwell had 138,142 votes, or 52.3 percent, to Djou’s 125,945, or 47.7 percent. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell defeated challenger Charles Djou 51 percent to 46.5 percent Tuesday evening. Civil Beat.

Kirk Caldwell won his re-election bid Tuesday night, prevailing in a hard-fought battle against challenger Charles Djou to serve a second term as Honolulu's mayor. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu City Council members and city prosecutor were cruising comfortably to re-election Tuesday night. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Voters Say No To Longer Terms For Mayor, Council. But most of the other charter amendments were passing handily, including more police oversight and money for the Honolulu Zoo. Civil Beat.

A Honolulu City Charter amendment to give the Police Commission greater authority soared to approval with most of the vote counted Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Sue Lee Loy and Eileen Ohara cruised to victory in races for two open Hawaii County Council seats Tuesday evening. Tribune-Herald.

Two seats on the nine-member Hawaii County Council were decided in run-off elections Tuesday night. Big Island Video News.

Incumbents carried the day Tuesday in Hawaii Island’s state House races. Tribune-Herald.

State Sen. Kai Kahele will finish the remaining two years of his late father’s term in the Senate, Hilo voters decided on Tuesday. Tribune-Herald.

They’re tucked at the bottom and probably the least understood of everything on the ballot, but one change to the county charter passed, one change to the state constitution failed and another passed Tuesday night. West Hawaii Today.

A would-be voter in Hawaiian Ocean View Estates said she and four others were denied ballots because they weren’t listed in the system. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

In a come-from-behind victory, Aloha ʻāina candidate Alika Atay won the race for the Wailuku Council seat after trailing the entire night by a slim margin. Maui Now.

With a number of tight races getting down to the wire, there remained nearly 3,000 votes to count in Maui County, as of shortly before 11 p.m., according to Deputy County Clerk Josiah Nishita. Maui News.

Maui’s voter turnout improved from 52.7% in 2014 to 56.4% this year.  Of the 93,912 registered voters in Maui County, 52,969 cast ballots in the General Election.  This included a precinct turnout of 26,493 and an absentee turnout of 26,476, representing 28.2% of the vote each. Maui Now.

Maui voters turned out in greater numbers Tuesday, at least compared with anemic results during the Aug. 13 primary election, according to reports from polls at the Haiku Community Center, Maui High School, Kihei Community Center and Kihei Elementary School. Maui News.

Kauai

With all 16 precincts reporting, Derek Kawakami and Arthur Brun are the new faces of the Kauai County Council. Garden Island.

District 16 Incumbent Daynette “Dee” Morikawa will return to the state House after defeating Republican candidate Victoria Franks Tuesday. Garden Island.

It was a night of smiles and celebration for Nadine Nakamura even before the first printout was released on Tuesday night, and the celebrations continued once it was announced later that she was leading by a significant amount for the District 14 seat in the House of Representatives. Garden Island.

Election Day preview: Candidates and parties make last sweep, second Thirty Meter Telescope appeal to Hawaii Supreme Court, DNA to prove Hawaiian homestead eligibility, Army sued over cultural access, Maui candidate calls from jail, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Democratic Party rally © 2016 All Hawaii News

See our Facebook page for more Grand Rally photos!

Hawaii Democrats and Republicans staged last-gasp sign-waving sessions before the Democrats’ traditional Grand Rally in Hilo on Monday in the final buildup to today’s voting. Star-Advertiser.

Trump sign-wavers

United States Senator for Hawaii Mazie Hirono took to the stage of the Democratic Party Grand Rally in Hilo on Monday evening. Most of her comments were directed at the Clinton-Trump presidential election. Big Island Video News.

Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard was in Hilo Monday to take part in a Democratic Party election-eve tradition. Big Island Video News.

With a polarizing presidential race, an election to replace the late U.S. Rep. Mark Takai and the possibility of an all-Democrat state Senate, Hawaii voters face difficult choices at the polls. Associated Press.

Hillary supporters

Voter registration in Hawaii is at an all-time high, but that might not translate into higher turnout on Election Day, experts said. Hawaii News Now.

Here are some things to look for in this year’s general election in Hawaii. Associated Press.

Time to cast your ballot: What Hawaii voters need to know. Star-Advertiser.

Red flag raised on the absentee voting system. KITV.

Public access to health care inspection reports filled with delays, redactions. KHON2.

Native Hawaiians could soon be able to use DNA to prove eligibility for homesteads, under new administrative rules being proposed by the state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands. West Hawaii Today.

Oahu

On the eve of the election, Honolulu mayoral candidates Kirk Caldwell and Charles Djou are making their final push for votes. Hawaii News Now.

The U.S. Army is violating a court settlement by restricting access to cultural sites in a valley many Native Hawaiians consider sacred, a lawsuit filed today alleges. Associated Press.

Measures to pave the way for transit-oriented development projects along the rail corridor are advancing even though concerns over affordable-housing requirements persist. Star-Advertiser.

The state Department of Education wants to impose a school impact fee on all new residential development along a 4-mile stretch of the Honolulu rail line from Kalihi to Ala Moana to build or expand schools in the area. Civil Beat.

The state Department of Health announced Monday that there are 14 new cases of salmonella on Oahu and that they have been linked to limu poke, or cubed raw fish served with seaweed. Star-Advertiser.

A city worker who was depicted on live video allegedly propositioning a transgender probationer for sexual favors pleaded not guilty Monday in Oahu’s Circuit Court. Star-Advertiser.

Regulars at Sand Island Beach Park say that someone is bringing his dogs to the park to let them kill cats for sport. At least 15 cats have turned up dead in the last four months, including three on Friday. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

A group opposing the construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope on Mauna Kea is appealing to the state’s highest court for the second time. The group Mauna Kea Anaina Hou filed a notice of appeal with the Hawaii Supreme Court Tuesday evening. Hawaii Public Radio.

As of Saturday, 38,440 residents — or 34 percent of the county’s 113,355 registered voters — had made their voices heard at the ballot box, said Pat Nakamoto, Hawaii County elections division chief. Tribune-Herald.

Proving his political career is not over, outgoing Hawaii County Mayor Billy Kenoi gave the opening speech at the traditional Democratic Party Grand Rally in Hilo. Big Island Video News.

The word of the day in West Hawaii Monday was inconvenience, as a fiber-optic cable break caused major disruptions to the communications grid across the island’s leeward region. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Republican state House candidate Chayne Marten called The Maui News from jail Saturday night, insisting he’s innocent of sexual assault charges and vowing that he would be exonerated. Maui News.

The U.S. Marshals Service arrested a former Maui corrections officer Saturday who spent two years evading law enforcement officials after being charged with sexual assault against a female inmate, the U.S. Department of Justice announced Sunday. Maui News.

Kauai

Today’s the last day to cast your vote for your representation in government at all levels, including the next president of the United States of America. Garden Island.

Kenoi takes stand in own defense, new schools superintendent coming, congressional shoo-ins raise money, new director for embattled rail authority, Maui to mull polystyrene food containers, venture capitalist buys Kauai estate, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Mayor Billy Kenoi testifies during his trial Wednesday in Hilo Circuit Court. Pool photo HOLLYN JOHNSON/Tribune-Herald

Mayor Billy Kenoi testified during his own criminal trial Wednesday that he made personal purchases on his Hawaii County credit card but denied trying to steal public funds. Tribune-Herald.

Mayor Billy Kenoi spent four hours on the witness stand Wednesday defending alleged personal charges to his Hawaii County-issued pCard that Kenoi said were for legitimate county purposes at a time of economic uncertainty. Star-Advertiser.

The trial of Mayor Billy Kenoi entered its fifth day on Wednesday. The mayor – who in March was indicted by grand jury for two counts of felony theft, two additional counts of misdemeanor theft, and one count of false swearing – took the stand in his own defense this morning. Big Island Video News.

Big Island Mayor Billy Kenoi took the stand at his felony theft trial Wednesday, telling jurors that he thought it was OK to use his county credit card for personal charges as long as he paid taxpayers back. Hawaii News Now.

Hawai‘i Island Mayor Billy Kenoi testified in his own defense Wednesday. The criminal trial against the Big Island mayor for the alleged misuse of his government issued purchasing card entered its fifth day. Kenoi took the stand, appearing emotional, as he recounted his family and upbringing in Kalapana. Hawaii Public Radio.

Big Island Mayor Billy Kenoi's theft trial continued Wednesday in Hilo with several witnesses taking the stand, which included Kenoi. KITV.

Day five of testimony in Big Island Mayor Billy Kenoi's theft trial continued in Hilo Wednesday with the mayor taking the stand. KITV.

Hawaii Island Mayor Billy Kenoi took the stand in his own defense Wednesday. KHON2.

=======================

The state Board of Education will search for a new schools superintendent to succeed Kathryn Mata­yoshi when her contract ends June 30. Star-Advertiser.

Kathryn Matayoshi is apparently on her way out as superintendent of Hawaii’s public school system. Civil Beat.

Kathryn Matayoshi's tenure as the state schools superintendent appears to be coming to a close. Hawaii News Now.

More Hawaii public school students are meeting or exceeding national science benchmarks, but achievement levels on the exam known as the “Nation’s Report Card” still trail national averages, results released Wednesday night from 46 states show. Star-Advertiser.
 
Shoo-In Candidates For Congress Raise Nearly $1M, Spend More. Brian Schatz, Tulsi Gabbard and Colleen Hanabusa are not worried about losing this year, but they are making moves for their future. Civil Beat.

All three members of Hawaii’s congressional delegation scored high marks on the Food Policy Action’s National Food Policy Scorecard, which ranks lawmakers’ votes on issues relating to food safety and access, farm subsidies, animal welfare, labeling requirements and the effects of food production on the environment. Star-Advertiser.

Howard Hughes Corp. plans to distribute $1 million to Hawaii community organizations for a second time through a foundation it established in 2014 with an initial $1 million donation. Star-Advertiser.

U.S. commercial fishermen hauled in 2.5 million pounds more bigeye tuna last year than they did in 2014, landing almost all of it out of Honolulu, according to a federal report released Wednesday. Civil Beat.

Oahu

The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation’s new interim director, who’s expected to be announced today, will inherit a rail agency that has seen high turnover among managers and board members in the past two years. Star-Advertiser.

Valuable properties are left unused to make way for rail. According to a report from the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation, it wants to keep buying land, even though construction is still years away. KHON2.

Proposal Asks Voters To End Council Earmarks For Nonprofits. The Honolulu City Council approves millions in extra funding for nonprofits, but the mayor frequently holds back the money. Civil Beat.

Two key state lawmakers say they plan to try again to pass legislation requiring all moped riders to wear helmets in the wake of Tuesday’s fatal accident near the University of Hawaii at Manoa campus. Star-Advertiser.

An online map showing what areas on Oahu are experiencing power outages is live. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Members of the Banyan Drive Redevelopment Agency voted Wednesday to approve a draft conceptual plan that will guide future action on the Hilo peninsula, particularly in terms of developing additional hotel capacity. Tribune-Herald.

How ya gonna keep ‘em in prison, after they’ve worked down on the farm? West Hawaii Today.

A Big Island native and former editor of West Hawaii Today resigned from his CEO post of the U.S. Space Foundation on Monday, about three weeks after coming under fire for making crude Facebook comments about Hillary Clinton. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The use of reusable plastic bags and polystyrene food containers in the county will be considered on Monday, Oct. 31, at 1:30 p.m. in Maui County Council Chambers. Maui Now.

Native Hawaiian activists confronted U.S. Army Corps of Engineers officials about Wailuku Water Co. permits to repair damage in Iao Valley from the Sept. 13 flood at a forum in Wailuku and in a separate action requested that the agency revoke the water company’s permit for emergency work in the Wailuku River. Maui News.

The Maui Planning Commission on Tuesday approved a state Land Use Commission special permit for Lona Ridge in Wailuku Heights, an action that moves the property one step closer to being able to host commercial events, such as weddings, workshops and corporate and nonprofit receptions. Maui News.

Hospitals’ future a focus for both candidates in District 8 contest. Maui News.

Farming a primary concern in District 13 matchup. Maui News.
Kauai

An executive at one of the world’s largest and most active venture capital firms has purchased a Hawaii estate for $5 million, Pacific Business News has learned.

Rupert Rowe says the Kaneiolouma heiau complex in Poipu represents the storied history of Hawaii. Garden Island.

Kauai County Mayor Bernard Carvalho, Jr. will be the keynote speaker at the Lihue Business Association’s annual meeting at Duke’s Canoe Club today. Garden Island.

Jobs increase, Obama endorses Caldwell, Japanese flag donated to Pearl Harbor, text-to-911 announced, Maui to meet on hospital woes, Hilo Bayfront trails advance, money for Kauai homeless, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki street ©2016 All Hawaii News

The total number of jobs in Hawaii is forecast to increase 5.6 percent from 696,390 to 735,180 from 2014 to 2024, according to a report released Thursday by the state Department of Labor and Industrial Relations. Star-Advertiser.

State officials forecast Hawaii's job force will increase by more than 5 percent between 2014 and 2024. KITV.

Fishery Council Downplays Worker Abuses On Hawaii Ships. Council members say there are no serious issues in Hawaii’s longline tuna fleet, but the industry is taking action to make sure. Civil Beat.

A Japanese navy flag that flew on the battleship of the man who planned the attack on Pearl Harbor was donated Thursday to the National Park Service. Associated Press.

Folks in Hawaii can now text emergency requests to 911. The service was announced at a press conference with Gov. David Ige and state and other officials Thursday. Civil Beat.

Getting help during an emergency is now coming into the 21st century. You can now text 911 thanks to a new service launched Thursday. KHON2.

U.S. Rep Tulsi Gabbard received a scathing email from longtime Hillary Clinton supporters, including a former director of the Clinton Foundation, the day after she announced her resignation as a vice chairwoman of the Democratic National Committee in February to endorse Bernie Sanders’ bid for the presidency. Star-Advertiser.

Sales increase for homes and condominiums statewide. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell scored two key endorsements in his re-election bid this week, including a nod from the commander in chief. Star-Advertiser.

A big score for Kirk Caldwell came Thursday: The president of the United States endorsed the mayor’s re-election. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation, the city agency overseeing the more than $8 billion rail transit project, will foot the $4.7 million bill for relocating underground utilities that are in the path of the project, Pacific Business News has learned.

A former University of Hawaii student and Air Force veteran is suing the university and one of his professors — the chairwoman of the Manoa Faculty Senate — for allegedly attacking him with “violent outbursts and irrational verbal and physical abuse.” Star-Advertiser.

A foundering affordable rental high-rise project slated for state land in Kakaako is on a new path for development with two state agencies swapping control of the roughly $300 million plan known as 690 Pohukaina. Star-Advertiser.

For the past week outreach workers have gone tent to tent at Kakaako Waterfront Park alerting homeless campers of a coming sweep.  Despite being urged to go into shelter the majority of people haven't budged. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii’s Stanford Carr Development LLC has recently purchased 26 acres in Makaha in Leeward Oahu from a Japanese company with the intent of building a project featuring 120 single-family homes, a recreation center and other amenities, the developer’s top executive confirmed to Pacific Business News this week.

Hawaii

Mayor-elect Harry Kim has tapped another old hand for his Cabinet. Kim said this week that he’s chosen Frank DeMarco to head the Department of Public Works. West Hawaii Today.

The contested case hearing over the Thirty Meter Telescope is gearing up. It is set to begin in Hilo on Tuesday. Civil Beat.

After years on the drawing board and in the planning room, the Hilo Bayfront Trails project has made the leap to reality. Tribune-Herald.

Two developments intended to provide 170 affordable housing rental units for Kona families and seniors are expected to finish construction and start moving in new residents at the end of next year. West Hawaii Today.

A former police officer who allegedly struck and killed a bicyclist in what the Hawaii Fire Department called a hit-and-run collision last year in South Kohala has been indicted by a Kona grand jury. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

State lawmakers will get an informational briefing Monday on the fallout of the one-year delay in transferring Maui public hospitals to Maui Health System, a Kaiser Permanente-affiliated hospital system. Maui News.

The state Department of Transportation is moving forward with plans to tear down the 95-year-old condemned pier in Hana that residents say is a recreational hot spot, but that the department views as a safety hazard. Maui News.

Maui County Council Member Don Couch will need to wait a few days to learn the outcome of a Board of Ethics complaint against him. Maui News.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources will hold a public hearing next month in Kihei on proposed natural area reserve rule amendments, including parking fees for visitors and lot hours at ‘Ahihi-Kina’u. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai Economic Opportunity gets $25,000 for homeless. Hawaii Lodging & Tourism Association opens 189th General Membership Meeting in Poipu. Garden Island.

Commentary: Planning Conference Wasn’t About Freebies And Booze. The media didn’t actually cover the Hawaii Congress of Planning Officials. Too bad, because important work was done. Civil Beat.

Federal government to study Hawaii fish populations, Thirty Meter Telescope attorney quits, Native Hawaiians discuss sovereignty, ethics violation filed against Maui County Council member, mongoose captured on Kauai, Ige wants to change pension plan, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Oscar Elton Sette off Maui in 2004, courtesy NOAA

Federal officials are embarking on a study of seven Hawaii fish species to assess the overall health of their populations. Associated Press.

State and federal fishery officials have struggled for decades to determine how many deep-sea bottomfish like onaga and opakapaka are in Hawaiian waters, basing stock assessments on the amount of groupers and snappers caught by commercial fishermen. Civil Beat.

Gov. David Ige’s administration plans to propose changes in the public employees pension fund next year as part of a larger effort to reduce the unfunded liabilities in the pension and health funds. Star-Advertiser.

The latest batch of WikiLeaks references Hawaii’s own Tulsi Gabbard. Civil Beat.

President Obama's recent decision to support a unified Native Hawaiian government is just one of the hot button issues on the discussion table at this week's annual Native Hawaiian Convention in Waikiki. KITV.

Hawaii’s veterans are receiving health care more promptly than in the past, but the U. S. Department of Veterans Affairs continues to struggle to hire and retain enough medical staff to meet the burgeoning need for services, according to a recent government report. Civil Beat.

The Kaiser Permanente Fit Rewards program is offering Kaiser Permanente members a chance to earn a free gym membership in 2017. The program creates a financial incentive for members to meet their health and fitness goals for the year. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Mayor Kirk Caldwell formally thanked landlords who accepted some 860 homeless military veterans on Oahu as tenants in the past 18 months, but pushed them on Tuesday for even more help to rescue remaining homeless former service members. Star-Advertiser.

Forensic evidence collected from potentially hundreds of sexual assault victims may have been rendered inadmissible in court because the Sex Abuse Treatment Center in Honolulu has kept evidence kits at Kapiolani Medical Center for Women and Children rather than sending them to a law enforcement lab for storing. Star-Advertiser.

Lawmakers and advocates expressed outrage Tuesday after learning that HPD failed to disclose it's destroyed more than 1,000 untested sex assault evidence kits since 1992. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii Office of Environmental Quality Control has extended the commenting period for the state’s plan to build a replacement facility for the crumbling Oahu Community Correctional Center. Civil Beat.

About 25 personal memorials have been placed on land called sacred in Waianae and the state is having them removed by the end of the year. The Ku’ilioloa Heiau at Kane’ilio Point at Poka’i Bay once served as a school of navigation and a blessing site for voyagers. Hawaii News Now.

Ala Moana Center is taking a closer look at all its railings in the wake of a deadly fall. KHON2.

A video camera was found inside a staff-only restroom at Kapolei Middle School, according to the Hawaii Department of Education. KITV.

Hyatt Centric Waikiki Beach, a new hotel brand for the isles, is recruiting about 100 workers in preparation for its Dec. 8 opening in the former Waikiki Trade Center office building. Star-Advertiser.

A three-level suite at The Pinnacle is to be auctioned by Heritage Luxury Real Estate Auctions on Oct. 18. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

The six original petitioners in the Thirty Meter Telescope contested case will represent themselves in hearings that start next week after their attorney withdrew as counsel, citing scheduling conflicts. Tribune-Herald.

The case against the Thirty Meter Telescope suffered a setback after the attorney representing the Mauna Kea Hui petitioners walked away a week before the contested case hearing is set to begin. Star-Advertiser.

After almost 30 years of government work, Hilo County Councilman Dennis “Fresh” Onishi is ready to start his own business once he leaves the council in December. West Hawaii Today.

Construction has kicked off on an initial phase of a delayed affordable-housing project on Hawaii island where monthly rent for some apartments will be as low as $384. Star-Advertiser.

The state Department of Health announced Tuesday afternoon that the first laboratory-confirmed case of travel-related Zika virus was detected on the Big Island. Tribune-Herald.

Kona coffee farmers say a strong crop yield is likely despite an unusually dry winter brought on by the most recent El Nino and its stabilizing influence on weather patterns over the main Hawaii Islands. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

An ethics violation claim has been filed against Maui County Council Member Don Couch over questions about his qualifications for an affordable home he and his wife purchased in Kihei while also buying a market-priced home in Waikapu in a three-month span nine years ago. Maui News.

Kauai

A young mongoose that stowed away to Kauai aboard an Aloha Air Cargo shipment from Oahu was captured at Lihue Airport on Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Maluhia Road, from the Tree Tunnel to the Ala Kino’iki Road junction, will be closed on Saturday, Oct. 15, from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. to allow the Department of Public Works to do tree trimming and remove dead branches. Garden Island.

Lanai

The Lana’i Culture and Heritage Center has launched a website showcasing the island’s iconic landmarks and locations through history, photos and video. Maui News.