Relentless Kilauea volcano threatens more homes, emergency workers caught sleeping, Trump expands Oahu and Kauai emergency declaration, OHA trustee sues Ethics Commission, prostitution rises with RIMPAC, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

USGS scientist studies Kilauea volcano on June 25 PC: USGS

Fresh lava oozes in Kapoho Beach Lots, expands south along shoreline. Fissure 8 continues to be very active, feeding the lava channel flowing into the ocean in Kapoho. Star-Advertiser.

Fissure 8 Lava Flow is Expanding South. Hawaii Public Radio.

At least two more homes in Kapoho Beach Lots are expected to be damaged or destroyed today. Tribune-Herald.

Lt. Col. Charles Anthony, the voice and face of the state Department of Defense for nearly 24 years, is retiring and will become director of public affairs for Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam. Star-Advertiser.

Workers At Agency That Sent False Alert Were Seen Sleeping. Emails released by the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency also indicate concerns were voiced about how to cancel an alert. Associated Press.

The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency is holding open houses to educate the public on its plans for disasters such as hurricanes, tsunamis, severe flooding, and wildfires. KHON2.

The Trump administration has expanded its response to the April flooding on Kauai and Oahu to include federal disaster assistance for individuals. Star-Advertiser.

People whose homes were damaged or destroyed in April's historic flooding disaster will now be able to receive federal help. Hawaii News Now.

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Supreme Court Deals A Major Blow To Public Sector Unions. The high court rules that unions can’t force nonmembers to pay membership dues, saying it violates the First Amendment. Civil Beat.

Union leaders say they don't expect members to opt out after Supreme Court ruling. KHON2.

Economists: Public Employee Union Membership Is Bound To Drop. Compulsory union dues are a thing of the past due to a U.S. Supreme Court ruling. But some say a pro-union culture in the islands will prevail. Civil Beat.

The U.S. Supreme Court decision that government workers cannot be required to contribute to labor unions came as no surprise to the state’s largest union, the Hawaii Government Employees Association. Star-Advertiser.

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Political Intrigue: What This Consultant Is Doing In Hawaii Is A Mystery. Strategies 360 won’t reveal a single client or issue it’s supporting in the islands. But the company has assembled a stable of well-known local talent. Civil Beat.

Republican gubernatorial contenders’ views differ in debate. If there is one thing that Andria Tupola and John Carroll agree on it’s that Gov. David Ige did a poor job handling Hawaii’s now infamous false missile alert. Star-Advertiser.

'Message of change': Republican candidates for governor square off in debate. Hawaii News Now.

Office of Hawaiian Affairs Trustee Rowena Akana had vowed to fight ethics charges filed against her, and on Wednesday she did just that, filing a lawsuit that aims to block the effort. Star-Advertiser.

The state ethics commission is now facing a new lawsuit from an Office of Hawaiian Affairs Trustee. Hawaii News Now.

Are Hawaii's government computers ready for ransomware? IT departments wage a constant battle to keep cyber threats out, safeguarding sensitive information and preventing services from shutting down. KITV.

69 public schools offer free summer meals. But most kids don't claim them. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii pesticide ban. Chlorpyrifos is a pesticide that’s in wide use around the world; it’s legal in 49 US States, and its use was legal in Hawaii until a couple of weeks ago, when Hawaii became the first state in the nation to ban its use. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

The Honolulu City Council Budget Committee on Wednesday advanced a resolution urging Honolulu’s rail board to seek a private partner to help build the final segment of the 20-mile transit line. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu City Council is considering a resolution designating Chinatown as a slum. It sounds ugly and negative, but it could bring federal help if it’s done. KITV.

City leaders consider criminal charges for monster home violators. Hawaii News Now.

Demand for prostitution increases in Honolulu while RIMPAC is in town. Honolulu becomes a home base to military members from 25 nations during RIMPAC, the Rim of the Pacific. KITV.

Union kicks off hotel talks with rally. Organized labor took a beating on Wednesday in Washington, D.C., but you wouldn’t have known that by the show of force exhibited by the 1,500 Unite Here Local 5 hotel workers who kicked off bargaining talks with a rally Wednesday in Waikiki. Star-Advertiser.

Teacher Training on Houseless Students Conducted. There are an estimated 300 children in Hawaii believed to be houseless. Hawaii Public Radio.

Vietnam veterans to be recognized at Fort Shafter. Forty-six years ago this Friday, the 196th Light Infantry was the last U.S. Army combat brigade to leave Vietnam as part of the withdrawal from the war. Star-Advertiser.

A Pearl City restaurant shuts down after roach infestation discovered. The Department of Health has issued a red placard to Buzz's Original Steakhouse in Pearl City. Hawaii News Now.

Roach infestation shuts down popular Pearl City restaurant. KHON2.

Walmart is hosting a celebration at 7:45 a.m. today to recognize the grand opening of the Hawaii Walmart Academy and the program’s inaugural graduating class. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Looting and squatting in vacant houses is a growing problem in some of the Puna neighborhoods that have been evacuated and closed off to the public because of the Kilauea eruption, according to area residents. Star-Advertiser.

County mulls options for housing of lava evacuees as grassroots efforts continue. During public meetings in Pahoa, Hawaii County officials have mostly been vague about what a housing plan for those displaced by the Kilauea eruption might look like. Tribune-Herald.

Ige’s comments create confusion over possible lava viewing site. Gov. David Ige said at a news conference Monday that a much-discussed lava viewing area might be built outside of the Puna district — comments that were clarified Wednesday by Ige’s staff. Tribune-Herald.

Ocean Robots Collect Data From Kilauea Flow. Big Island Now.

Incredible video captures the rescue of stranded farm animals from isolation on the other side of the giant lava channel flowing in Puna. Big Island Video News.

A bill authorizing the county to pick up abandoned vehicles on private roads soon will be back before the County Council after a unanimous endorsement Wednesday by the Environmental Management Commission. West Hawaii Today.

“Love Activates” is the theme for Saturday’s Hawaii Island LGBTQ Pride Parade and Festival in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui Fire Chief Jeffrey A. Murray retires on June 30th, 2018, after 10 years at the helm of the department. Maui Now.

Maui Fire Department Chief Jeff Murray will retire Saturday after 29 years with the department. Star-Advertiser.

Maui County’s abandoned vehicles staff does not see many major problems with a new state law requiring counties to remove and dispose of abandoned vehicles along public roads within 10 business days of being declared abandoned. Maui News.

A new study includes two Maui locations on a top 10 list of the best ocean beach towns in the US. Maui Now.

Two Hawaii beach towns crack top 10 in new national ranking. Pacific Business News.

Maui County website lists legal vacation rental developments. Maui News.

Kauai

Biggest Local Election In A Generation. New political blood is assured as six candidates seek the mayorship and a whopping field of 24 seek posts on the County Council. Civil Beat.

Counseling, unemployment assistance and a Disaster Relief Center are all coming to Kauai, courtesy of the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Garden Island.

There was no shortage of heroes in the aftermath of the storm that dumped a record-breaking four feet of rain on Hanalei in April. Garden Island.

Ige signals he may veto 11 bills, lava toll now 657 homes, Honolulu city error stops drivers license offices statewide, plus lots of politics, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Screenshot of Gov. David Ige announcing possible vetoes

 Gov. David Ige is considering vetoing 11 bills passed by lawmakers this session, including a measure that would authorize the use of medical marijuana to treat drug addiction; a bill that would create minimum, statewide standards for law enforcement officers; and a bill that would allow motorcycles to drive in designated shoulder lanes.  Star-Advertiser.

Gov Ige to consider vetoing up to 11 new bills. KITV.

Gov. David Ige held a news conference in Honolulu today, after notifying lawmakers of his intent to veto 11 measures. Big Island Video News.

Gov. David Ige has notified legislative leaders and key lawmakers of his Intent to Veto list, which includes 11 measures. Maui Now.

Read the governor's full intent-to-veto list here.

Ige: Hawaii Not Ready For Police Standards Board. A bill to create the board passed unanimously, but if the governor follows through on his intent-to-veto list, Hawaii will remain the only state without one. Civil  Beat.

Governor rejects measures related to medical cannabis, motorcycles. Hawaii News Now.

Some members of the state’s visitor industry are applauding Gov. David Ige’s decision to place a bill that would have increased visitor taxes on his intent-to-veto list. Star-Advertiser.

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

There are a lot of choices in the race for lieutenant governor, and on Monday evening, five Democrats, two Republicans and one Green Party candidate tried to stand out from the crowded ballot during a forum sponsored by the League of Women Voters of Hawaii County. West Hawaii Today.

Commentary: Race Still Matters In Hawaii Politics. When an analyst said Ed Case has an advantage as the only white Democrat running for Congress, many of us were taken aback. We shouldn’t have been. Civil Beat.

Businessman Runs For Senate In Hawaii — And Several Other States. The California millionaire says he loves Hawaii, but he’s also running in Florida, Minnesota, Vermont, Washington and Wyoming. Civil Beat.

Hawaii leaders are weighing in on the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling on Tuesday to uphold President Donald Trump’s travel ban, a policy that put the state at the forefront of a months-long legal challenge. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency is inviting the public to submit input for the state's multi-hazard mitigation plan update in a series of open houses. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

City to double Saturday staff at some driver licensing centers, satellite city halls after outage. KHON2.

A widespread outage affected hundreds of people who wanted to renew their drivers licenses, get a state ID or pay their property taxes at the city's 10 satellite city halls Monday. Hawaii News Now.

City repairs outage at Honolulu satellite city halls and statewide driver’s licensing centers. Star-Advertiser.

A statewide computer outage Monday prevented Department of Motor Vehicle customers from obtaining driver’s licenses, state of Hawaii identification cards, registrations, renewals and titles. Garden Island.

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A 47-year-old woman changed her plea to "no contest" on Monday to first-degree theft charges for allegedly selling diabetic test strips on the black market. Hawaii News Now.

U.S. Army Hawaii will be hosting its 47th annual "4th of July Spectacular" event from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Independence Day. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii County Civil Defense Agency reported Monday that 657 homes have been destroyed by the massive volcanic flow that began May 3 in Lower Puna and has since covered 6,164 acres with lava. Star-Advertiser.

Ahalanui Beach Park might be the next area threatened by lava as the flow front in lower Puna inches southward toward Warm Ponds. Tribune-Herald.

Gov. David Ige announced Monday that he is considering opening up a new area for people to view the lava on Hawaii island. KHON2.

The ideal site to safely witness the ongoing Kilauea eruption may not even be close to the source in Hawaii island’s vast Puna district, Gov. David Ige said Monday. Star-Advertiser.

Helicopter Tours of Kilauea Volcano are Booked Solid. he Kilauea Eruption on the Big Island has carved a path of destruction in Pahoa but business is booming for tour companies offering an up-close view of the lava flow. Hawaii Public Radio.

State ready to offer financial support, but Hawaii County has to ask. Star-Advertiser.

The Kilauea eruption has taken a toll on many Puna flower farms, leading to limited availability and higher prices for certain items statewide. Hawaii News Now.

NASA has been using satellites to assist first responders dealing with the volcanic eruptions on the Big Island. KITV.

As management of the emergency resulting from the Kilauea volcano eruption that began May 3 transitions from response to recovery mode, the number of Hawaii Army and Air National Guard troops deployed to East Hawaii has declined dramatically. Tribune-Herald.

Inside and outside, Jaggar Museum sees big impacts of Kilauea eruptions. Hawaii News Now.

Kilauea lava channel transports 'lava boats'. Geologists captured this time-lapse video of the perched lava channel issuing from Fissure 8 on Kilauea’s lower East Rift Zone on Saturday. West Hawaii Today.

There will be a community meeting Thursday on the ongoing seismic activity at the summit and the continued closure of the Kilauea section of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Big Island Video News.

Congresswoman and candidate for Hawaii governor Colleen Hanabusa is calling for “immediate action to protect Puna residents’ voting rights”, and to avoid the sort of disaster-related upheaval she witnessed in 2014, in the wake of Hurricane Iselle, during her run for U.S. Senate. Big Island Video News.

Puna Councilwoman Jen Ruggles has withdrawn her candidacy for re-election, leaving two political newcomers as the voters’ choice for the District 5 council seat. West Hawaii Today.

$95M Kailua-Kona development project set for completion in 2020. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Mayor Alan Arakawa today announced the appointment of Planning Director Will Spence to serve as Director of the Department of Housing & Human Concerns, and Planning Deputy Director Michele McLean as Planning Director. Maui Now.

Housing summit set for landlords, rental managers. Focus aimed on renting to homeless, lower income people. Maui News.

The Maui Department of Environmental Management Wastewater Reclamation Division issued a reminder to customers today that the sewer user fee will increase by an average of 3%, effective July 1, 2018. Maui Now.

East Maui Sees Largest Stream Restoration in Hawaii History. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai

Hearing set on tax proposal. Shall 3 percent of real property tax revenues be earmarked for the purpose of affordable housing? Garden Island.

Former County Council member and former prosecuting attorney Shaylene Iseri has filed to run for the council again. Garden Island.

A recently approved solar-plus-storage project on Kauai will help the island achieve its 2030 renewable energy goals 10 years ahead of time. Pacific Business News.

Trump approves federal assistance for lava-struck homeowners, AG mismanaged asset seizure program, Honolulu ethics audit quashed by city, state settles special ed lawsuit, Hana pier to come down, scientists debunk gems from volcano stories, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Lava enters sea, June 14 PC:USGS

President Donald Trump approved on Thursday Gov. David Ige’s request for federal individual assistance programs to aid residents affected by the Kilauea eruption, just one day after the request was made. Tribune-Herald.

President Donald Trump has approved Hawaii’s request for individual assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency for Big Island residents whose homes have been lost or damaged due to the ongoing Kilauea Volcano eruptions. Star-Advertiser.

President Donald Trump approved Hawaii Gov. David Ige’s request for individual assistance for Hawaii County residents and businesses who lost homes and property in the ongoing eruption of the island's Kilauea volcano that began on May 3. Pacific Business News.

President Trump Approves Hawaii County Individual Assistance Request. Big Island Video News.

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The state agreed to pay $10.25 million to settle a federal lawsuit brought by the Hawaii Disability Rights Center and the parents and legal guardians of special-needs students whose public education was cut off at age 20 instead of 22 by a 2010 state law. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Will Pay $10.25 Million To Settle Special Education Lawsuit. The state violated federal law by denying services to disabled students before they reached the age of 22. Civil Beat.

There is a major payout from the Department of Education to settle a class-action lawsuit. There are 495 students who are part of the class action lawsuit. KHON2.

Auditor: Hawaii AG Mismanaged Asset Seizure Program. The AG failed to account for forfeited property and didn’t spend $2 million for drug prevention programs as required by law, the report found. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Gets $3.2 Million To Thwart Election Hacking. Russian hacking in 2016 prompted Congress to bolster state elections security with new funding. Civil Beat.

Hawaii will receive a portion of the federal Commerce, Science, and Justice Appropriations Bill, which the Senate Appropriations Committee passed on Thursday. Pacific Business News.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority has issued request for proposals to offer funding support to cultural and community organizations in 2019. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii’s unemployment rate is holding at its all-time low of 2 percent. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines and Japan Airlines, two major carriers serving the Hawaii market, are seeking to create a joint venture, which they say would provide consumers with lower fares, increased capacity and more choices. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines has possible joint venture with Japan Airlines. KHON2.

Three months after launching the first phase of their comprehensive partnership, Hawaiian Airlines and Japan Airlines have filed an application for antitrust immunity to create a joint venture. Pacific Business News.

Nearly 700 attendees are at VERGE-Hawaii, the Asia-Pacific Clean Energy Summit in Waikiki this week. One of the topics discussed was sustainable tourism. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Ethics Commission Audit Quashed On Advice Of City’s Lawyer. The Honolulu auditor was concerned its results might be “discoverable” in a lawsuit filed by Louis and Katherine Kealoha. Civil Beat.

Allegations surface of equipment misuse for profit by DLNR employees. Hawaii News Now.

Court reports mixed on Kawananakoa. The special master hired to advise the judge is recommending that Kawananakoa, 92, be declared mentally capable of changing or revoking her trust and also of removing and replacing the trustee. Star-Advertiser.

Stores mandated to charge 15-cents per plastic, paper bag. KHON2.

Power outage kept Ewa Beach community in the dark for more than 30 hours. KHON2.

Crafting a king: City commissioned statue of Kamehameha III to be completed ahead of La Hoihoi Ea. KITV.

Hawaii Island

Homeowners, renters, business owners and nonprofits that suffered losses in Hawaii island’s volcanic eruption that began May 3 can now start applying for federal monetary aid. Star-Advertiser.

The County of Hawaii announces that residents who suffered damage or losses from the recent Kilauea volcanic eruption and earthquakes, can now register for disaster assistance with the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Big Island Now.

The Hawaii Department of Health announced Thursday plans to install 10 new ambient air quality monitoring stations across Hawaii Island. West Hawaii Today.

Ashfall lowers air quality for residents of Ocean View. Star-Advertiser.

3 pm Eruption Update – Chemical Analysis, UH Says No Falling Gems. Big Island Video News.

Green gems raining from the sky at Kilauea? Well ... not exactly. Hawaii News Now.

DLNR provides emergency cinder resource vital for tropical floral businesses on Big Island. West Hawaii Today.

Survivors of past Hawaii lava recall despair and opportunity. Associated Press.

Now that a finding of no significant environmental impact has been published for a new resources management plan for South Point, the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands is ready to take up a project residents have requested for three decades — as soon as it finds the money. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The new head of the Office of Council Services for Maui County is Maria Zielinski, who resigned abruptly in December as director of the state Department of Taxation. Maui News.

Removal of the deteriorating Hana pier, which has been in the works since 2016, may not take place until 2021, according to the project’s final environmental impact statement. Maui News.

Energy office to hold meetings on utility ownership. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai residents rebuilding after the flood eligible for expedited permits. On Friday, Mayor Bernard Carvalho plans to sign an emergency ordinance to speed up the permitting process for impacted residents to rebuild over the next 60 days. Hawaii News Now.

Unemployment rate rises on Kauai. The unemployment rate for May on Kauai was 2.1 percent, up from 1.8 percent in April, but down from 2.5 percent in May 2017. Garden Island.

Molokai

A former manager of a defunct credit union on the island of Molokai has been sentenced to seven years in prison for embezzling more than $1 million with another employee. Associated Press.

Federal officials are investigating after a monk seal was found dead under suspicious circumstances on Molokai. Maui News.

State lawmakers tour lava zone as they mull special session, Ige seeks presidential disaster declaration for entire state, overnight rumbles predict more volcanic activity, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii lawmakers tour Kilauea lava flow PC: Sen. Kai Kahele

Gov. David Ige asked President Donald Trump to declare the state of Hawaii a major disaster area Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

White House, Hawaii In Contact Concerning Eruption. Big Island Video News.

Kilauea volcano is threatening to blow its top in coming days or weeks after sputtering lava for a week, forcing about 2,000 people to evacuate, destroying two dozen homes and threatening a geothermal plant. Associated Press.

Dozens of quakes overnight signal more lava outbreaks are 'likely'. Hawaii News Now.

Volcanic activity pauses along East Rift Zone, but more lava outbreaks expected. KHON2.

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Gov. David Ige has signed a bill setting aside $125 million for flood recovery efforts on Kauai and Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency has denied the state's request for federal funding after historic flooding destroyed parts of Kauai and Oahu. KHON2.

Hawaii's request for aid on Kauai was denied by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. KITV.

State Director of Health Dr. Virginia “Ginny” Pressler has announced her retirement, effective June 1, according to a statement released today by Gov. David Ige.  Star-Advertiser.

Virginia Pressler will retire on June 1 from her post as director of the Hawaii state Department of Health, a post she’s held since late 2014, Gov. David Ige’s office said Thursday. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii’s commercial swordfish fleet has been shut down for the rest of the year following a court order aimed at protecting endangered loggerhead sea turtles. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Swordfish Industry Shut Down To Protect Endangered Turtles. Environmental groups have been trying to restrict the taking of turtles by longliners for the past six years. Civil Beat.

Hawaii's longline fishing industry will have to stop fishing for swordfish because of court agreement designed to protect loggerhead sea turtles. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc.’s earnings jumped 17.7 percent in the first quarter even as the holding company’s utility shifted $9 million worth of tax reform net benefits to customers. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Access to the USS Arizona Memorial is again suspended until further notice, to “address the structural integrity of the facility.” Star-Advertiser.

Structural concerns mean visitors won't be able to disembark onto Arizona Memorial. Hawaii News Now.

An Oahu grand jury has indicted Randall Saito for escape and theft six months after he walked out of the Hawaii State Hospital and flew to California. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii State Hospital escapee Randall Saito has been indicted by a Honolulu Grand Jury on one count of Escape in the Second Degree and four counts of Identity Theft in the First Degree. KHON2.

Efforts to control a holiday 'floatilla' event has led to a civil rights complaint against the state Land Department. Hawaii News Now.

Concerned Citizens: Homeless Sweeps in Kakaako Don't Work. Hawaii Public Radio.

A federal jury found the owner and operator of a business that provides speech language therapy primarily to children of military service members guilty Thursday of multiple counts of wire fraud, identity theft and lying to receive payment of services that were never provided. Star-Advertiser.

For Tourists Only: This Hawaii Wedding Venue Won’t Host Locals. Some wedding venues only accept destination weddings to limit the number of guests and the effect on neighbors. Civil Beat.

Students, alumni and visitors of Hawaii Pacific University added $423.1 million in income to Oahu's economy for fiscal year 2015-16, according to an economic impact study conducted by Economic Modeling Specialists International. Pacific Business News.

The Hawaii State Department of Education held a groundbreaking ceremony for its new East Kapolei Middle School on Thursday. KHON2.

Retired Kailua auto dealer Mike McKenna, who appeared in newspaper and TV ads with his beloved golden retriever Hana Girl, has died. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Lower Puna waited for Pele to make her next move Thursday after going more than 24 hours without seeing magma surface. Tribune-Herald.

The pentane at Puna Geothermal Venture has been removed, but Civil Defense officials remain concerned about another hidden hazard. Tribune-Herald.

More than 200 people showed up at Pahoa High and Intermediate School on Thursday night to receive updates on Kilauea’s eruption. Star-Advertiser.

7 pm Eruption Update – Flyover Of Leilani Estates. Big Island Video News.

HVO: All 15 Fissures Have Paused. The eruption has destroyed at least 25 homes, and lava has covered more than 100 acres of land. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is now closed until further notice. The gates closed at 10 pm Thursday night. Big Island Video News.

Amid ongoing eruptions, Big Island faces a daunting new problem: A housing crisis. Hawaii News Now.

When a lava evacuee returned home to get his belongings, he found a man inside. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii County police charged a 29-year-old Pahoa man Thursday with burglary in connection with the suspected looting of homes in the Leilani Estates subdivision, which was under a mandatory evacuation order due to a lava eruption. Star-Advertiser.

Volcanic ash may contaminate the water supply for families with catchment systems. Hawaii News Now.

Commentary: Officials Need To Back Off When It Comes To Media Access To Hazardous Scenes. The disaster in Puna is dangerous, but the public has a right to know all that is going on — without government control. Civil Beat.

Commentary: Mayor Kim still the man to rely on during a crisis. Star-Advertiser.

Friends of former Mayor Billy Kenoi have planned a “worldwide prayer gathering” for noon Saturday. West Hawaii Today.

Big Island Dairy in Ookala has continued to discharge wastewater this week. Tribune-Herald.

The County Council made quick work Wednesday approving a $30.5 million bond issue for park improvements to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

A lawsuit was filed Thursday against the builders of the Front Street Apartments and the state housing agency to challenge the developer’s attempt to convert the complex to market-rate units before the end of its 50-year commitment to keep rents affordable for low-income tenants. Maui News.

Southern Connector Road Between Honoapiilani and Lahaina Bypass Opens Today. Maui Now.

Improvements continue at both ends of the Lahaina bypass, to be referred to for the time being as Route 3000, the state Department of Transportation announced Thursday. Maui News.

Several Maui residents Thursday expressed support for the embattled Office of Hawaiian Affairs chief executive officer, whose performance is being evaluated following a scathing state audit over use of funds. Maui News.

The Economic Development Administration will award $210,000 to the University of Hawaii for the Maui Food Innovation Center, which is used by agribusiness and food entrepreneurs to develop and manufacture products. Maui Now.

Kauai

Repairing Storm Damage Is A Chance To Solve Tourist Congestion. Fixing Kuhio Highway will be costly and complicated, but may provide impetus for a long-term plan limiting daily visitors in the area. Civil Beat.

More Victims Of The Kauai Flood — Tourist Vacation Rentals. Kauai County had already cracked down on hundreds of remote visitor rentals. The flood might have doomed many more. Civil Beat.

Wednesday, 32-year-old Bronson Nakaahiki of Kekaha was arrested for allegedly slicing a green sea turtle’s throat and harvesting its meat on Kekaha Beach. Garden Island.

Explosions expected at summit of Kilauea volcano, national park closing Friday, governor asks Trump for more help as geothermal plant at risk, Supreme Court sets Thirty Meter Telescope arguments, Kealoha trial scheduled, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Visitors at Kilauea volcano PC: J. Wei

The USGS issued an ominous warning Wednesday about Kilauea: Eruptions at the summit crater could trigger explosions so violent they fling 10-ton boulders as far as a half mile away and send ash columns miles into the sky. Hawaii News Now.

Geologists say the Big Island’s Kilauea volcano could erupt explosively and send boulders, rocks and ash into the air around its summit caldera in coming weeks. Associated Press.

Scientists with the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory told a packed Kilauea Visitor Center auditorium within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park that explosions are likely to occur at the summit in the near future. Big Island Video News.

Scientists update residents near Volcano on lurking dangers at Kilauea. KITV.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park will close Friday and until further notice because of the possibility of an explosive eruption that could blast steam, rock and ash from the Halemaumau lava lake crater at the summit of Kilauea Volcano. Star-Advertiser.

Scientists at the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory are warning that the steady lowering of the Halemaumau lava lake at Kilauea volcano’s summit overlook crater indicates that explosive eruptions are possible in the coming weeks. Star-Advertiser.

Most of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park will close Friday. Officials say it's possible for a steam-induced explosion to occur at the summit of Kilauea Volcano due to the receding lava lake. KHON2.

Scientists with the U.S. Geological Survey’s Hawaiian Volcano Observatory said Wednesday that a steady lowering of the lava lake at Kilauea volcano’s Overlook crater within Halemaumau “has raised the potential for explosive eruptions” that could happen as soon as next week, while officials from the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park said they would close the majority of the park on Friday in anticipation of such an event. Pacific Business News.

Gov. David Ige has asked President Donald Trump to declare a disaster declaration on the Big Island, which continues to grapple with ongoing quakes and lava flow from the Kilauea volcano. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Gov. David Ige on Wednesday signed a presidential disaster declaration request, in which he asked U.S. President Donald Trump to declare the state of Hawaii a major disaster as a result of the ongoing eruptions of Kilauea volcano. Pacific Business News.

Gov. David Ige has issued a supplemental emergency proclamation for the 2018 Kilauea eruption that, among other emergency management functions, establishes lines of authority that will enable a more comprehensive response to changing and unpredictable risks posed by the current eruption. Big Island Now.

With some 50,000 gallons of potentially explosive solvent still sitting at the Puna Geothermal Venture power plant, Gov. David Ige on Wednesday signed an emergency proclamation giving him the authority to do what’s necessary at the plant to protect the community. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Gov. David Ige on Wednesday signed a supplemental emergency proclamation due to the ongoing eruption of Kilauea volcano on Hawaii's Big Island that will, among other things, include the removal of hazardous material for Puna Geothermal Ventures. Pacific Business News.

Gov. David Ige issued a new emergency declaration Wednesday to move 60,000 gallons of high flammable chemicals from Puna Geothermal Venture by the end of tomorrow. Tribune-Herald.

Gov. David Ige took action Wednesday to mitigate risks to Puna Geothermal Venture in light of Kilauea Volcano's latest eruption. KHON2.

After helping with relief efforts following two major disasters in the past month, the Red Cross of Hawaii is dealing with complaints about the way it manages donations. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Former Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha and his deputy prosecutor wife Katherine Kealoha will stand trial on bank fraud charges in November, then stand trial again in March with four former members of the Honolulu Police Department’s elite Criminal Intelligence Unit on charges accusing them of staging the theft of their mailbox and lying about it. Star-Advertiser.

Taxi Companies vs Uber and Lyft Showdown at Honolulu City Council. The Honolulu City Council is considering a measure to regulate ridesharing companies. Hawaii Public Radio.

New law enacts tougher penalties for drift racing. Star-Advertiser.

A bill stopping the city from installing bulb-outs at two key Chinatown intersections won a narrow 5-4 approval from the Honolulu City Council Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s largest shopping center had been warned about unsafe conditions on its property 11 years before one young man was killed and another severely injured there in 2016, but it chose to do nothing about it, according to a lawsuit filed Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

The families of two men who fell through a railing at Ala Moana Center in 2016 are now suing the property owner for ignoring concerns they say could have prevented the incident. Hawaii News Now.

Lawsuit filed against Ala Moana in deadly railing accident. KHON2.

Honolulu police are on the verge of launching an urgent care clinic in Chinatown, where homeless people can see a doctor for free. Hawaii News Now.

Why This Church Breaks The Law Every Sunday. South Shore Christian Fellowship is racking up daily fines for operating in an agricultural area. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

There will be no county surcharge on the state general excise tax this year, following action Wednesday by the County Council. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii Supreme Court will hear oral arguments on June 21 regarding the appeal of the conservation district use permit for the construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope on the summit of the Big Island’s Mauna Kea. Pacific Business News.

Water system again down four wells, no restriction yet in effect for North Kona. West Hawaii Today.

State Representatives and Senators to visit Puna lava flow areas. KHON2.

Volcanic activity subsided in Puna on Wednesday evening, but there was little hope for a length reprieve amid new warnings about the potential of explosive eruptions at Kilauea's summit crater the likes of which Hawaii hasn't seen in nearly a century. Hawaii News Now.

A 15th fissure brought lava to the doorstep of Lanipuna Gardens on Wednesday while an ash cloud at Kilauea’s summit warned of more dangers to come. Tribune-Herald.

In addition to the threat of explosive eruptions at Kilauea’s summit, new vents and the wrath of lava, Hawaii island residents also have acid rain to worry about. Star-Advertiser.

Homeowners Face Insurance Dilemma in Lava Prone Areas. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island police arrested a Pahoa man in connection with the burglary of a home in the Leilani Estates Subdivision, which is an area covered by an Emergency Proclamation declared by the Mayor's Office as of May 3. KHON2.

5 Tips to Protect Your Lungs From Volcanic Ash. Maui Now.

A number of relief efforts are ongoing to support residents affected by the Kilauea volcano eruption in Leilani Estates. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii Community Foundation, together with Anderson-Beck Fund, Jack’s Fund and the Darrin & Darien Gee Family Fund, established the Hawaii Island Volcano Recovery Fund to aid Big Island residents impacted by the recent Kilauea volcano eruption. Pacific Business News.

A charter school near Leilani Estates is relocating to escape lava and fumes like the rest of its neighbors, and another charter more than 25 miles away in Hilo also decided to pick up and move because of the threat of tsunami. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

Haleakala Visitors Generated $69.8 Million for Maui Economy in 2017. Maui Now.

Too much of a good thing becomes invasive. Related to the common soybean, glycine was introduced to Hawaii after a massive kikuyu grass dieback in the 1970s, according to the Maui Invasive Species Committee. Maui News.

Kauai

The public had a lot to say Wednesday evening during a public meeting regarding improved bus service and the installation of new charging stations for electric cars across the island. Garden Island.

Renters and home and business owners with National Flood Insurance Program insurance have four chances to get questions answered about policies and claims starting Monday during meetings scheduled throughout Kauai. Garden Island.

The mid-April deluge that damaged hundreds of homes and halted tourism on the farthest reaches of Kauai’s North Shore has revived a red-hot debate over whether vacation rentals should be allowed to operate in hazardous zones. Civil Beat.

A man has been arrested for allegedly killing a green sea turtle on Kauai.  Hawaii News Now.

Kilauea activity resumes, sulfur dioxide levels a concern, Ige meets with FEMA, Trump signs emergency flood declaration for Oahu and Kauai, government among the least transparent, homeless get Waikiki apartments, state Supreme Court overturns county defamation lawsuit, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

News photographers emerge from steaming Kilauea volcanic gas. PC: Tom Callis

Ige meets with FEMA, expects eruption will qualify as major federal disaster. Star-Advertiser.

Price tag for back-to-back natural disasters unlikely to hurt state's economy. Hawaii News Now.

A possible new fissure opened in Leilani Estates, potentially bringing the number of fissures in the subdivision up to 15. Tribune-Herald.

The Kilauea eruption burst open two more vents at the northeastern edge of the Leilani Estates subdivision and consumed another home Tuesday afternoon, prompting an urgent evacuation order for residents in the adjoining Lanipuna Gardens subdivision. Star-Advertiser.

Two More Fissures Appear; Remaining Lanipuna Gardens Residents Being Told To "Evacuate Now". Hawaii Public Radio.

Lava from Kilauea Volcano covers 104 acres, destroys 36 structures in Leilani Estates. KHON2.

Police went door-to-door in Hawaii to roust residents near two new vents emitting dangerous gases in areas where lava has been pouring into streets and backyards for the past week. Associated Press.

Residents of a second subdivision on Hawaii’s Big Island were ordered to evacuate immediately Tuesday afternoon after county civil defense officials said two new fissures with lava from Kilauea volcano had opened. Pacific Business News.

VIDEO: 9 pm Eruption Update – Flyover New Lava Fissures. Big Island Video News.

Nearly a week since Kilauea volcano began releasing torrents of lava onto the roads and homes of Leilani Estates, large areas of the Puna neighborhood have started to resemble another world. Tribune-Herald.

Insurance companies have stopped issuing any new polices for those residents until the lava threat is over. KHON2.

Some Hawaii island residents were showing early signs of respiratory illness over the weekend as the lava from Kilauea Volcano expanded its footprint in the Leilani Estates subdivision. Star-Advertiser.

Alvin C. Bronstein, M.D., the Hawaii Health Department's Emergency Medical Services and Injury Prevention Systems Branch Chief, talks about the effects of sulfur dioxide. Big Island Video News.

Sulfur dioxide from eruption creating vog, possible acid rain. KHON2.

Rescue operations are underway to retrieve what could be hundreds of animals left in Leilani Estates and Lanipuna Gardens after their owners were forced to evacuate. Tribune-Herald.

Efforts to retrieve or rescue animals in Leilani Estates have become chaotic as residents and the Hawaii Island Humane Society work under evacuation orders and lava inundates the rural subdivision. Star-Advertiser.

Residents in evacuation shelters struggle with uncertainty as lava claims more homes. KHON2.

He lost his home and livelihood to lava, but his focus now is on helping others. Hawaii News Now.

Here's how to help those affected by the Big Island eruptions. Hawaii News Now.

PHOTOS: More homes destroyed in ongoing Kilauea eruption. Hawaii News Now.

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President Donald Trump has approved a Hawaii’s request for a major disaster declaration for the April floods, landslides and mudslides on Kauai and Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

U.S. President Donald Trump has approved a major disaster declaration that will provide public assistance for damages caused by severe flooding and landslides on Kauai and Oahu last month. Pacific Business News.

Federal relief is on the way for Kauai and Oahu after President Donald Trump declared recent flooding and landslides on Hawaii as a national disaster on Tuesday. Garden Island.

The recent flood on Kauai and lava eruption on Hawaii island have exposed a weakness in Hawaii’s disaster preparations: who will assist visitors staying in the growing number of vacation rentals. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Just Found A New Way To Fight Climate Change. Offsetting carbon emissions by doing things like planting trees is the vision, but it’s far from ready to be implemented. Civil Beat.

Business and environmental leaders joined state lawmakers at a Magic Island news conference Tuesday to urge Gov. David Ige to sign two bills aimed at committing Hawaii to achieve “carbon neutrality” by 2045. Star-Advertiser.

Lawmakers, business innovators, and community advocates celebrated the passage of H.B. 2182 Tuesday, which sets the goal of “sequestering more atmospheric carbon and greenhouse gases than the State produces as quickly as practicable, but no later than 2045.” KITV.

Hawaii is among the worst in the nation when it comes to being transparent about the way state government spends its money, according to a new study of state transparency sites. Civil Beat.

Full report: Following the Money 2018. How the 50 States Rate in Providing Online Access to Government Spending Data found here.

How Hawaii Schools Are Building Bridges To Micronesian Students. As enrollment expands, schools and community groups are trying new ways to close cultural and academic gaps. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Should The Mayor Choose Honolulu’s Police Chief? One Honolulu council member is pushing to amend the city charter to revamp how the chief and police commissioners are chosen. Civil Beat.

The city has acquired its first building in Waikiki with affordable units designated for Housing First tenants — a move greeted by many who have long complained about growing homelessness in their neighborhood. Star-Advertiser.

City & County of Honolulu Buys $7.5M Building in Waikiki. Hawaii Public Radio.

A thirty-three unit Waikiki building will soon represent a new start for some of Hawaii's homeless. KITV.

Hawaii Island

Being a good neighbor is one of the new requirements for vacation rentals in a rewrite of Bill 108 discussed Tuesday by the County Council Planning Committee. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii Supreme Court has overturned the dismissal of a defamation lawsuit filed by county Elections Administrator Pat Nakamoto and a former elections clerk against Hawaii County, former Councilman Dominic Yagong and a private investigator. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Island lands $256M in projects after lawmaking session. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii Police Department is awaiting delivery of 10 new marked police SUVs, the first addition to the department’s fleet in nearly a decade. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui County’s top civil attorney, Patrick Wong, got lucky again in Vegas last year, winning at least $26,000, although that’s not his highest winnings to date. Maui News.

The volunteer-based Hui O Ka Wai Ola ocean water quality testing program has expanded again, with the addition of 12 more testing sites in South Maui. Maui Now.

Haleakala National Park reported a 12 percent decline in visitors in 2017 compared to 2016, though park officials note that the numbers tend to fluctuate. Maui News.

Maui’s homeless population has decreased 2.6% since last year with a total of 873 homeless individuals tallied on Maui. Maui Now.

Overall, Maui is seeing a slight decline in homeless individuals, down 2.6 percent to 873 people this year compared with 896 last year. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai received more than $85.3 million Capital Improvement Project funding for fiscal year 2019 from bills in the 2018 legislative session. Garden Island.

Koloa Big Save Supermarket is sitting on a large-capacity cesspool that has drawn a civil penalty of $110,000 for violating the federal Safe Drinking Water Act. Garden Island.

Farmers that have been impacted by the recent record-breaking rains are invited to attend the Kauai Farmer Disaster One Stop Shop, May 19 from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Kauai Community College Office of Continuing Education and Training Room 106. Garden Island.

How much do we make? New study compares Hawaii to the rest of the U.S., plus lots of action as Legislature enters final 14 days, ballot initiative taxing investment property for education advances in House, too many emergency drills, opiates down, pot use rises, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hotel workers rally in Waikiki. That sector makes more than the national average. ©2018 All Hawaii News

The state has sized up the local workforce in a new report that shows Hawaii workers earned less on average compared with workers nationwide, largely because the biggest employment sector here is part of the relatively low-paying tourism industry. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s average labor earnings and wages, in general, are lower than in the rest of the United States, according to a new study released by the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism on Tuesday. Pacific Business News.

A study released Thursday by the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism shows some jobs related to tourism pay better in Hawaii than on the mainland, but for almost everyone else, the price of paradise is a lower paycheck. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii workers make less than their mainland counterparts in just about every industry, and the average earnings for Hawaii men are nearly $13,000 higher than those for women, according to a new study that further underscores the disparity between what people earn in the islands and what it costs to live here. Hawaii News Now.

Read full Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism jobs report here.

Gender pay gap in Hawaii is $12,921. Tuesday, April 10 is Equal Pay Day, dedicated to raising awareness of the gender pay gap. KITV.

City, state lawmakers mark 'Equal Pay Day'. State lawmakers are also considering a bill that could be a step toward improving equity in the work place. The bill would prohibit the enforcement of wage secrecy, as well as retaliation or discrimination against those who inquire about their or their co-worker's wages. Hawaii News Now.

National study finds Hawaii residents lead longer, healthier lives. The study, done by the Journal of the American Medical Association, analyzed death rates by state in 1990 and 2016, as well as the average number of years people live healthy lives. Hawaii News Now.

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Legislature Heading to Last 14 Days of Session. Hundreds of bills at the State Legislature passed critical floor votes in the House and Senate today.  But the work is far from over as lawmakers head into the last 14 days of the 2018 session. Hawaii Public Radio.

House lawmakers unanimously approved a bill to ask voters whether the state should be empowered to impose a tax surcharge on investment properties to help fund public education, and also voted Tuesday to impose a new tax on e-­cigarettes. Star-Advertiser.

Tactics To Revive Mauna Kea Bill Leave Even Senators Confused. Recesses in a public floor session to talk privately about the legislative maneuvering slow down “second crossover” day at the Hawaii Capitol. Civil Beat.

The state Senate will vote on two controversial bills affecting Maunakea later this week after making floor amendments on Tuesday. The amendments change the effective date of House bills 1585 and 1985 to Dec. 31, 2033. That’s when the University of Hawaii’s lease for the Maunakea Science Reserve ends. Floor votes are scheduled in the Senate for Thursday. Tribune-Herald.

Minor amendments were inserted into two controversial bills related to Mauna Kea during a floor session of the Hawaii State Senate on Tuesday, setting them up for a final vote in the same chamber on Thursday. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii Lawmakers Say They Want Better Sexual Harassment Rules — Just Not Yet. Legislative leaders say they need to study the issue and consult experts before making any changes. Civil Beat.

A bill that would establish regulations on users of restricted pesticides is on the cusp of being passed into law after the state House unanimously voted to pass it last week. Tribune-Herald.

Bills on Sunscreen, Gun Control, Family Leave Head to Senate before Second Crossover Deadline. Key measures that passed by the House today include a proposed amendment to the State Constitution to fund public education, stricter gun control policies, the establishment of paid family leave, and a ban on sunscreens containing oxybenzone. Maui Now.

Edibles Could Be Coming Soon To Medical Marijuana Dispensaries. Key Hawaii legislators in both chambers also support workplace protections for employees who consume medical cannabis. Civil Beat.

A House Bill that would authorize the issuance of special purpose revenue bonds to assist SpinLaunch Inc., with “the financing of the planning, design, and construction of a satellite launch system”, to be located somewhere in Hawaii, passed the State Senate on Tuesday. Big Island Video News.

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Botched Hawaii Missile Alert Prompts Advice On Drills. Avoid using the phrase, “This is not a drill,” the Federal Communications Commission says. Associated Press.

Botched missile alert inspires broad FCC recommendations. The Federal Communications Commission said future ballistic missile warning tests in Hawaii should not include words that hark back to the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor — specifically, “This is not a drill.” Star-Advertiser.

The FCC this morning released its full report on the false missile alert in Hawaii, finding a “combination of human error and inadequate safeguards” and issuing a lengthy list of recommendations. Star-Advertiser.

The feds say Hawaii has made strides in strengthening its emergency alert system, but urges more training after the Jan. 13 incoming missile alert that sent Hawaii scurrying for cover. Garden Island.

The FCC has released its final report on January's false missile alert. Among its findings, some people did not get the alert because they were probably in areas known as coverage dead zones. KHON2.

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The United States Senate unanimously passed a resolution today honoring the life of retired U.S. Sen. Daniel Kahikina Akaka, who died Friday at the age of 93. Star-Advertiser.

Opiate use among Hawaii workers dropped 50 percent during the first quarter of this year compared with the same time last year, according to workforce drug tests performed by the state’s largest laboratory. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii workforce drug testing results show opiate use down, marijuana use up. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii among the worst states for millennials, report says. WalletHub's "2018's Best & Worst States for Millennials" analysis has ranked Hawaii at No. 38, with a score of 44.61 out of a possible 100 points. Pacific Business News.

Three key military positions affecting the Pacific theater and involving top-ranking Hawaii-based commanders were announced by the Pentagon today. Star-Advertiser.

HECO grid study emphasizes real-time data for alternative energy integration. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Council Considers Big Cuts In Honolulu’s Climate Change Office. Voters created the office less than two years ago. Now Council Chair Ernie Martin wants to slice its budget in half. Civil Beat.

A contentious bill that would allow drivers to turn left during rush hour at two key Kapiolani Boulevard intersections on weekdays was vetoed Tuesday by Mayor Kirk Caldwell, an action that could lead to an interesting political showdown. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu is becoming a more bikeable city, but that comes at a price. The city confirms 184 on-street parking spaces have been removed to make way for bike lanes and the new bike share program, known as Biki. Hawaii News Now.

A state lawmaker fell victim to thieves while taking a family photo on a beach in Waikiki. Rep. Kaniela Ing (D, Kihei, Wailea, Makena) is now dealing with thousands of dollars worth of fraudulent debit card charges. KHON2.

High rise residents -- including House Speaker Scott Saiki -- stuck without elevators. KHON2.

The road at Kaena Point State Park has been closed for nearly eight weeks due to rainy weather and the muddy damage caused by off-road vehicles. Star-Advertiser.

A home on Oahu's North Shore is breaking sales records in the area after real estate agents closed a multi-million dollar deal Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

A North Kona park proposed several decades ago could be coming to fruition. Hawaii One1 Investors LLC will construct the first phase of the long-planned park on Laaloa Avenue off Alii Drive as part of its fair-share agreement in exchange for zoning and use permits from Hawaii County. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Community College is looking to redevelop its current Manono Street campus, foregoing costlier options to move to a larger site elsewhere in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

A critical audit of the county Human Resources Department has netted a national award for Legislative Auditor Bonnie Nims and her staff. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County police said police officer Christopher R. Kapua-­Allison’s serv­ice weapon, a 9-mm Glock, was found at the scene of the apparent murder-suicide at his Mountain View house on Sunday. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

Maui Ocean Users Sue Land Board Over 400 Foot Seawall. A lawsuit has been filed in Maui’s environmental court over a 400 foot seawall proposed for construction at Kahana Bay in West Maui. Maui Now.

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.

House passes Front Street Apartment bill. Measure puts burden on county to get funds back from developers. Maui News.

Chumbley offers to keep 8th House seat warm. Former state lawmaker says he won’t run in November, leaving spot open for candidates. Maui News.

Kauai

Chamber supports nene delisting. The federal government might remove nene from the endangered species list and the Kauai Chamber of Commerce is reminding everyone to comment on the proposal before it’s too late. Garden Island.

Study shows Puaiohi’s importance to the Alakai Plateau. Small and aloof, the Puaiohi songbirds of Kauai might stand only a few inches high but they have a big impact on their home ecosystem on the island’s Alakai Plateau. Garden Island.

Kauai’s newest charter school has received 113 student applications for the 2018-2019 school year. Garden Island.

Lanai

Four Seasons Resort Lanai has launched a daily private air charter service for hotel guests traveling from Honolulu, the resort announced Tuesday. Pacific Business News.

The ultraluxury resort on Lanai announced Tuesday that it has started its own charter flight service for guests traveling between Honolulu and the Four Seasons Resort Lanai. Star-Advertiser.