Hawaii Supreme Court blocks early inmate release, data shows COVID much more deadly than flu, Hawaii County to consider lodging tax, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Corrections officer at Hawaii jail ©2021 All Hawaii News

Hawaii Supreme Court blocks the early release of certain prisoners. The state Supreme Court denied a third request by the office of the Public Defender to release certain classes of prisoners early to help alleviate the crowded conditions that help COVID-19 spread, noting rising inmate vaccination rates and a declining number of infections in Hawaii’s jails and prisons. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Tribune-Herald.

Race expanding for Hawaii’s next lieutenant governor. The 2022 race for the open seat of Hawaii’s next lieutenant governor is heating up for a job that has no clear day-to-day responsibilities but has served as a recent platform to the governor’s mansion and the U.S. Senate. Star-Advertiser.

Ikaika Anderson Launches Campaign For Hawaii Lt. Governor. The former Honolulu City Council chair is the second Democrat so far to seek the office in 2022. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii House Panel Warns It May Hold The State Auditor In Contempt. Rep. Della Au Belatti tells Les Kondo she wants audit documents by the end of business Wednesday, or else. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Home Lands Residents May Be Out Of Luck When It Comes To Help With Broadband Bills. A federal pandemic subsidy program offers discounts to homesteaders. But the company that provides the service says it won’t participate. Civil Beat.

University of Hawaiʻi economist says state economy on the upswing. A University of Hawaiʻi economist told state lawmakers he’s cautiously optimistic about the future outlook for the state’s economy even though he’s expecting statistics to show thousands of jobs were lost during the recent COVID-19 Delta variant surge. Hawaii Public Radio.

Health officials debunk false report, saying COVID is far deadlier than the flu. The statistic that is causing issue is 859, which the state Health Department said is how many people in Hawaii have died in the last year from pneumonia and influenza. The state said only one of those deaths was actually due to influenza — the rest were related to pneumonia and the vast majority were COVID-related. Hawaii News Now. Maui Now.

Hawaii doctors urging pregnant women to get vaccinated against COVID-19 due to high risks. Women who are pregnant and recently pregnant are at an increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Additionally, pregnant women who contract the virus are at increased risk for preterm birth and other adverse pregnancy outcomes, including stillbirth. Star-Advertiser.

‘Zip code matters’: Experts say pandemic highlighted troubling health inequalities statewide. Hawaii’s healthcare and business leaders say the pandemic exposed troubling inequalities among ethnic and economic groups across the state. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii sees 49 new coronavirus cases, bringing statewide total to 81,663. The new confirmed and probable infection count by island includes 36 new cases on Oahu, two on Maui, six on Hawaii Island, four on Kauai and one on Molokai. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Some outdoor events now allowed on Oahu as part of mayor’s larger plan of easing restrictions. Some outdoor events are allowed on Oahu starting Wednesday as part of Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s larger plan of easing restrictions over the next two weeks. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

New body cam video shows bizarre encounter before fatal police shooting in Nuuanu. On April 14, an hour before a fight with police officers in Nuuanu, Lindani Myeni had a strange encounter with police in the parking lot of Kewalo Basin. Hawaii News Now.

New community around stadium could start to rise in about a year. Residential and commercial construction on state land around Aloha Stadium could begin in late 2022 or early 2023 without a projected timetable for replacing the largely condemned 50,000-seat facility. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. KHON2. KITV4.

Former workers of Love’s Bakery are now suing the company. The International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) are suing Love’s Bakery, alleging the company shorted health trust fund contributions after they say an audit uncovered about several hundred thousand dollars in discrepancies. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Lodging tax hike looms: Council to discuss adding 3% to TAT. On the heels of the governor and Legislature scooping up the counties’ share of a tax on hotels and short-term rentals, County Council members next week will discuss imposing their own. West Hawaii Today.

Police Recover 600 Pounds in Stolen Bananas. The two suspects were identified and the bananas were recovered, however, the owners of the produce remain unknown. Big Island Now. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Puna Geothermal Venture to discuss operations with public. Officials with PGV, Hawaiian Electric Co. and the County of Hawaii will give updates on the geothermal plant's operations in the first such meeting since July. Pacific Business News.

Maui

Mayor Anticipates Approval for Loosened Restrictions on Maui. While the mayor said he has obtained a verbal okay from Governor David Ige, he’s holding back on calling loosened restrictions official until the Governor puts his signature on paper. Maui Now. KITV4.

Charter Commission Adopts Proposal To Establish Independent Nomination Board. At last Thursday’s Maui County Charter Commission meeting, proposals were adopted that would significantly change the selection process and requirements for people serving on County boards and commissions. Maui Now.

US Rep. Kai Kahele Tours Maui Economic Opportunity. US Representative Kai Kahele toured Maui Economic Opportunity’s Wailuku offices Monday, Oct. 11, meeting staff, learning about programs offered by the nonprofit agency whose mission is to alleviate poverty, discussing the need for affordable child care for young families, hearing aids for kupuna and the spending bills being hammered out in Congress. Maui Now.

‘E ho’i ka wai. Return the water’: In ongoing battle, Kalo farmer finds water source locked up. The battle over water continues on Maui as some famers say their access to water has been abruptly shut off. Wailuku farmer Robert Street says water to his taro patch stopped on Monday without any explanation. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Photographer complies with DLNR. A commercial wedding photography company previously called out for its practice of allegedly taking photos without necessary permits has removed photos from its website taken within closed areas without proper permitting at the behest of the state Department of Land and Natural Resources. Garden Island.

KPD primed and ready for explosive threats. The next time something that could go “boom” needs to be dealt with on Kaua‘i, police won’t be stuck waiting for help to be flown in from Honolulu or the mainland. Garden Island.

Democratic candidates for governor, lieutenant governor and vacant congressional seat square off in debates, Honolulu short $134M for rail project; thunder, lightning, whirlwinds as Kilauea eruption creates its own weather, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hanabusa, Ige debate PC: Hawaii News Now screenshot

Gov. David Ige faced off against his Democratic challenger, U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa, on Monday, seeking to point to his record — and suggest she doesn't have one. Hawaii News Now.

Ige, Hanabusa Spar Over LG, Special Interests And False Missile Alert. A televised debate between the leading Democratic candidates for governor offered familiar rhetoric mixed with lively jabs over fresh topics. Civil Beat.

Hanabusa and Ige debate immigration, environment. The forum was sponsored by the Hawaii Lodging &Tourism Association, Waikiki Improvement Association, Retail Merchants of Hawaii and Waikiki Neighborhood Board. Star-Advertiser.

Two of Hawaii's top Democratic contenders vying to be the next governor squared of in Waikiki on Monday. Both candidates agreed to disagree on how to sustain the state's record setting tourism industry. KITV.

Top gubernatorial candidates differ on ohana zones for homeless. Star-Advertiser.

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The five Democrats vying for the second-highest position in state government kept things upbeat and friendly Monday evening at a forum sponsored by Hawaii News Now, stressing their qualifications and avoiding any criticism of one another. Star-Advertiser.

Here’s How These 5 LG Hopefuls Would Make That Office Relevant. The five Democratic candidates for Hawaii’s lieutenant governor spent an hour Monday evening trying to win over voters. Civil Beat.

In debate, candidates for lieutenant governor point to their experience, priorities. Hawaii News Now.

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Tension erupted at times as six candidates vying for the congressional seat being vacated by U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa worked to set themselves apart from each other Monday night during a debate hosted by Hawaii News Now. Star-Advertiser.

Democratic Contenders For Congress Duke It Out. A debate Monday featured sharp attacks on the candidates’ records, as well as disagreements about the scale of the military presence in Hawaii. Civil Beat.

In heated debate, candidates for Congress seek to differentiate themselves — and one another. Hawaii News Now.

Super debate attendees weigh in on what they heard from the candidates. Hawaii News Now.

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How Capitol Connections Helped A Nonprofit Win A State Grant. Two Hawaii lawmakers voted to give public money to an animal support organization while sitting on its board of directors. Civil Beat.

Specific kinds of sunscreens are disappearing from the shelves this summer in preparation for the 2021 Hawaii oxybenzone ban, which Gov. David Ige is expected to sign into law today. Garden Island.

A new campaign is seeking to raise awareness about prostitution and sex trafficking during RIMPAC, world's largest maritime exercise. Hawaii News Now.

The largest containership ever built in the United States was christened Saturday and soon will be on its way to Hawaii where it will regularly deliver merchandise from the mainland. Star-Advertiser.

Cincinnati Bell completed its acquisition of Hawaiian Telcom on Monday and named a new top executive for the Hawaii phone, TV and internet service provider. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

The latest report on Honolulu’s troubled rail project by independent consultant Jacobs Engineering Group estimates the project will cost $8.3 billion, about $134 million more than the city’s current forecast, and possibly be fully operational nine months later than has been projected. Star-Advertiser.

Feds: Honolulu Rail Is Still Short By $134 Million. A new federal report on the transit project’s risks pushes its completion back nearly a year and says it needs even more cash. Civil Beat.

Federal report estimates rail cost at $8.3 billion with completion in 2026. KHON2.

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Parking complaints at Hanauma Bay spotlight larger concerns. Hawaii News Now.

City to hold hearing on potential changes to surf contest permit process. A hearing on whether the city should change its rules when it comes to surf contests will be held Tuesday. KHON2.

Charter School Principal Calls It Quits After A Year. Principal Jeff Vilardi is the latest in a series of staff departures at Kamalani Academy. Civil Beat.

Community outrage over the death of hammerhead sharks sparks a $5,000 reward. The state says this is the first time concerned groups have offered a reward for the taking of hammerhead sharks. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

New Emergency Proclamation Divides Lower Puna Into Areas A, B. Big Island Video News.

In the Leilani Estates subdivision, Hawaiian Volcano Observatory field crews monitoring fissure 8 captured this video of a whirlwind above the lava channel. Tribune-Herald.

Fissure Whirlwind, Lava Boats & Volcanic Thunderstorms Explained. Big Island Video News.

Eruptions on the Big Island are so vigorous they're creating weather. Hawaii News Now.

Access to parts of lower Puna will improve today with the reopening of Highway 130 between Pahoa and Kalapana. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii volcano that’s been erupting in a residential neighborhood for the past two months has built a cone that’s now about the height of 10-story Aloha Tower. Associated Press.

Unable to operate their nonprofit park stores following the May closure of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the Hawaii Pacific Parks Association has opened a new store location in Prince Kuhio Plaza. Tribune-Herald.

Church leaders meet to organize aid efforts. Tribune-Herald.

Maybe the 31st time will be the charm. After evaluating 29 sites, Hawaii County is looking at two more possibilities for a sewer plant in Naalehu. West Hawaii Today.

Four state parks will close early on the Fourth of July, the Department of Land and Natural Resources’ Division of State Parks said Monday. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Cochran seeks to extend Central Maui moratorium on sand mining. The legislation has a July 19 expiration date. Maui News.

Last call today for changes to charter. Committee will review final set of amendments. Maui News.

A Families Belong Together sign waving rally was held on Maui on Saturday, June 30, 2018 to support the reunification of migrant children with their parents. Maui Now.

Kauai

County officials announced that refuse collection services for residents affected by the April flood in the Wainiha and Haena area will continue through July 31. Garden Island.

Nine teen students recently completed the three-day MyPI, or Hawaii Youth Preparedness Initiative, Teen Community Emergency Response Team training. Garden Island.

The Department of Taxation announced dates for its 2018 Tax Workshop to be held across the state this month. Garden Island.

Future of Maunakea telescopes mulled, more shenanigans in Takai campaign account, Ige touts accomplishments, Maui mayor running for council, not lieutenant governor, Honolulu homeless woes, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Telescopes atop Maunakea ©2018 All Hawaii News

Kim finalizing Maunakea committee: Mission statement emphasizes Native Hawaiians’ connection to the mountain, exploration. Tribune-Herald.

The University of Hawaii is restarting its effort to gain a new master lease for Maunakea that would allow observatories to continue beyond 2033. Tribune-Herald.

Senate Bill 3090, establishing the Mauna Kea Management Authority, will be heard on February 12. Big Island Video News.

Greg Chun has been appointed as senior advisor to University of Hawaii President David Lassner and UH Hilo Chancellor Marcia Sakai in overseeing the fulfillment of the responsibilities of the entire UH System on Maunakea. Hawaii 24/7.

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The presumably dormant re-election campaign for the late U.S. Rep. Mark Takai has paid out close to $5,000 over the past year to purchase data from a Washington, D.C.-based campaign software vendor that tracks voter information. Star-Advertiser.

Five candidates for lieutenant governor who took part in an early forum at Democratic Party of Hawaii headquarters Saturday vowed to make the job more meaningful for the people of the state. Star-Advertiser.

Candidates for Lieutenant Governor face off in public forum. KITV.

Ige opens campaign offices. Supporters often praise Gov. David Ige, 60, for his soft-spoken, humble leadership style. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Ige uses launch of campaign headquarters to highlight success of term. Hawaii News Now.

Political candidates react to #MeToo sexual harassment issues in Hawaii. KITV.

Another Delay Sought For Surprise Care Home Inspections. Advocates for the elderly say unannounced inspections are long overdue but state officials foresee problems. Civil Beat.

Proposal to reduce frequency of safety checks works its way through Legislature. KHON2.

It might be game over for certain video games in Hawaii after state lawmakers introduced legislation to limit the implementation of electronic gambling systems within the popular pastime. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii’s Resistance To Trump Enters Cyberspace. A bill to encourage net neutrality envisions the possibility of a taxpayer-owned internet service provider. Civil Beat.

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Hawaii’s visitor industry, caught flat-footed in the aftermath of the false missile alert on Jan. 13, is partnering with the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency to prepare for future situations that could impact visitors. Star-Advertiser.

Nearly a month after a Hawaii Emergency Management Agency employee sent out an alert that a ballistic missile was headed to Hawaii, the agency is still trying to correct the record about what really plunged the isles into 38 minutes of needless panic and fear. Star-Advertiser.

One thing that was clear following the Jan. 13 missile scare in Hawaii is that the state does not have enough hospital capacity to handle a nuclear attack, which could involve mass casualties. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaiian Electric Cos. are asking the state Public Utilities Commission for approval to seek new renewable projects for Oahu, Maui and Hawaii island. Star-Advertiser.

Modernizing Hawaii’s Electric Grid For Less Than $1 A Month. Hawaiian Electric Co. needs to upgrade its distribution system to accommodate mushrooming rooftop solar. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Growing Waianae homeless camp at center of dispute at harbor. State and city lawmakers once looked at one of Oahu’s biggest homeless encampments — Puuhonua O Waianae next door to the Waianae Small Boat Harbor — as a potential model for what government-sanctioned homeless “safe zones” could look like across the islands. Star-Advertiser.

State Department of Land and Natural Resources officials believe the state-owned land beneath the Puuhonua O Waianae homeless encampment contains ancient burial sites, pre- and post-contact rock walls that have been destroyed, and a rare “Waianae lineage” of half-inch-long shrimp living in an underground cave system. Star-Advertiser.

City officials have received complaints that homeless people from a large encampment are dumping human waste into Pokai Bay, among other issues. Associated Press.

There are strict rules regulating daily life inside Puuhonua O Waianae — and those who repeatedly violate them are kicked out. Star-Advertiser.

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Cries over ‘poor door’ ignore worse segregation in affordable housing. Star-Advertiser.

Affordable housing: Like all Hawaii real estate, it’s gotten more expensive. It’s also getting incredibly smaller. Star-Advertiser.

Woman receives $72 ticket after honking her horn at a police vehicle. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

North Kona Councilwoman Karen Eoff, the primary sponsor of a bill limiting vacation rentals on the island, has come under fire for her ownership of a vacation rental condo in Kailua-Kona. West Hawaii Today.

Picking fruit on some West Hawaii farms is more than just precarious. As soon as the trees start shaking, farmers and field workers are as likely to get an armful of little fire ants as a handful of coffee berries. West Hawaii Today.

Kona coffee farmers want label law expanded. Star-Advertiser.

Funding for Big Island Veterans Treatment Court is making headway in the state Legislature. West Hawaii Today.

The opening of the Big Island’s first medical marijuana dispensary has been delayed. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County Mayor Alan Arakawa has submitted a candidate organizational report to the state Campaign Spending Commission showing his intention to run for the County Council’s Kahului residency seat. Maui News.

Maui County mayoral candidates file campaign spending reports. Guzman has the most cash on hand, with Victorino and Cochran next in line. Maui News.

Essential air service contract to expire. Anxiety in Kalaupapa rises as feds take new round of bids, including one with no subsidy. Maui News.

Haleakala National Park will hold a public meeting on Monday, Feb. 12, 2018, to outline a proposed fee increase for the tri-park annual pass. Maui Now.

Maui’s only neurosurgeon, Dr. Thomas Rogers, has been unavailable for the past few months because of a health-related issue, forcing all patients needing examination or surgery to fly to Oahu for treatment, Maui Memorial Medical Center officials said. Maui News.

Kauai

Kani Wildlife Control offers solutions for eradicating unwanted wildlife. Garden Island.

Bikes on Rice begins monthly rides Tuesday around Lihue. Garden Island.

Molokai

A tangle of fishing nets the size of a large SUV washed ashore on the Northeast side of Molokai in Halawa Valley. KHON2.

AG Chin accepts lieutenant governor post while campaigning for Congress, House to wait on sexual harassment probe of former speaker, fired 'button pusher' to sue state, Maui loses injection well case, Ige pans Kakaako affordable housing plan, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Attorney General Doug Chin, courtesy photo

State Attorney General Doug Chin announced today that he will continue to campaign for Congress while agreeing to fill out the remaining term of Lt. Gov. Shan Tsutsui, who resigned effective Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Democrat Doug Chin to succeed Shan Tsutsui as Lieutenant Governor of Hawaii. Chin will continue his campaign to serve Hawaii’s First district in the U.S. House of Representatives. KHON2.

Hawaii Attorney General Doug Chin will take over as lieutenant governor after Shan Tsutsui abruptly resigned from the post on Wednesday. Hawaii News Now.

Commentary: Shan Tsutsui didn’t just step down as lieutenant governor. He bolted. Star-Advertiser.

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The leadership of the state House of Representatives will await the outcome of an investigation into a sexual harassment complaint against state Rep. Joseph Souki before deciding whether to take any action against the 84-year-old lawmaker, according to House Speaker Scott Saiki. Star-Advertiser.

The former head of Hawaii’s Department of Human Services confirmed Thursday that she filed a sexual harassment complaint against former House Speaker Joe Souki. Associated Press.

The former director of Hawaii's Department of Human Services has filed a formal complaint with the State Ethics Commission that accuses state Rep. Joe Souki of sexual harassment. Hawaii News Now.

Longtime Wailuku state representative and two-time House Speaker Joe Souki is facing a sexual harassment complaint from the former head of Hawaii’s Department of Human Services. Maui News.

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Emergency worker behind false missile alert to file lawsuit against the state. The emergency worker fired by the state for sending a false missile alert has hired an attorney, and plans to sue the state for defamation. KHON2.

Missile Attack: House Proposes Laws for Businesses. State lawmakers are considering legislation to protect businesses and homeowners in the event of a missile alert. Hawaii Public Radio.

Lawmakers want to prohibit businesses from turning people away if missile threat is real. Hawaii News Now.

This Nuke Plan Would Have Turned Hawaii Upside Down. During the Cold War, attack preparations were proposed that called for interisland evacuations and commandeering of property. Civil Beat.

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A new bill aims to better protect domestic violence victims by adding a petty misdemeanor offense option for perpetrators and making it easier for the victims to obtain protective orders. Civil Beat.

Bills could make failure to report child abuse a felony. Tribune-Herald.

Audit blasts OHA for lavish spending, awarding grants to those who know 'who to ask'. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiian Language Thrives While the Law Strives to Catch Up. Nearly 40 years ago, the Hawaiian language was recognized as one of two official languages in the state. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Ige balks at Kakaako affordable-housing rule amendment. The governor said one of the provisions in revised rules crafted by the Hawaii Community Development Authority intended to preserve inventory of affordable homes built by developers is too extreme and might actually reduce production of such homes. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Gov. David Ige on Thursday said he won't sign the 2017 proposed amendments to the Hawaii Community Development Authority rules regarding reserved and workforce, housing in Kakaako, saying he didn't believe the proposed 30-year restriction would result in more homes for first-time buyers. Pacific Business News.

Areas Around Schools And Libraries May Be Next For Sit-Lie Ban. The Honolulu City Council approved a bill to prohibit lying down at bus stops, but postponed action on schools and libraries. Civil Beat.

HPD investigating officer-involved shooting in Waipahu. Hawaii News Now.

State regulators Thursday ordered Spectrum Cable to delay rolling out its all-­digital cable system on Oahu because of inaccurate information on its notice to subscribers. Star-Advertiser.

Miles-long debris field spotted off Oahu just a 'small piece' of the problem. Some 4,000 pounds of tangled fishing nets were removed from the ocean off Waikiki on Thursday morning, and state Department of Land and Natural Resources officers say there's a chance it may have come from a two-mile long debris field first spotted on Saturday in the Kaiwi Channel. Hawaii News Now.

An extremely heavy ball of derelict fishing nets reported near a popular surf break known as “Pops” in front of the Royal Hawaiian Hotel in Waikiki was removed this afternoon. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

The 2018 election season kicked off in earnest Thursday morning with the beginning of candidate filing. West Hawaii Today.

Lava tour turns deadly: Guide leading hike in Kalapana area dies after noxious steam engulfs group. Rain falling on a lava flow in the Kalapana lava viewing area Thursday morning caused a noxious steam cloud that overcame four people hiking on a guided tour, according to the Hawaii Fire Department. Tribune-Herald.

Four persons were trapped in a noxious steam cloud on the lava field during a guided hiking tour, and one person died. Big Island Video News.

Two tour operators are being fined $2,500 each for providing illegal tours on Maunakea. Tribune-Herald.

Wave of questions: County, nonprofit field concerns to surf school proposal. West Hawaii Today.

An application for a Use Permit to allow the construction of a new, non-manned telecommunication facility in Hawaiian Paradise Park was delayed at a Windward Planning Commission meeting on Thursday, although a Hawaii County Councilmember representing Puna was still able to testify. Big Island Video News.

The public is invited to comment on a proposed fee increase from $30 to $50 for the Tri-Park Pass, an annual pass that allows visitors unlimited entry to the three fee-charging national parks in Hawaii: Hawaii Volcanoes and Haleakala National parks and Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park. Tribune-Herald.

T.J. Maxx to open in March. T.J. Maxx representatives handed out applications Thursday at the store’s future location at Prince Kuhio Plaza as contractors prepared for a grand opening next month. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

A panel of the 9th US Circuit Court of Appeals ruled today that the County of Maui’s Lahaina Wastewater Reclamation Facility has been violating the US Clean Water Act since the facility was first put into operation in the early 1980s. Maui Now.

Maui County is reviewing its legal options after losing its appeal to the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals of a ruling that the county’s use of injection wells at the Lahaina Wastewater Reclamation Facility since the early 1980s violates the federal Clean Water Act. Maui News.

The woman accused of murdering her identical twin sister by deliberately driving off a cliff on Maui was acquitted today. Star-Advertiser.

Saying evidence showed a driver’s hair was being pulled by her passenger to cause her to lose control of a vehicle that went over a cliff near Hana, a judge Thursday found the woman not guilty of second-degree murder in the crash that killed her twin sister. Maui News.

A woman accused of 2nd degree murder in the May 29, 2016 death of her twin sister has been acquitted of the charge.  Judge Peter Cahill handed down the ruling on Thursday in Maui District Court following closing arguments which were held earlier in the afternoon. Maui Now.

Kauai

Tax cuts stall in committee. Two bills aimed at reducing the county fuel and vehicle weight taxes were killed at the county committee this week. Garden Island.

No Sign Of Authorities Yet As Occupation Of Kauai Resort Continues. The landowners request state assistance as Native Hawaiian protesters remain at the Coco Palms resort site. Civil Beat.

The Pentagon confirmed today that a key missile defense test off Kauai failed early Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Rare plants on Kauai will get a boost from the expansion of the Lyon Arboretum’s Micropropagation Laboratory on Oahu, which was completed at the end of January. Garden Island.

Recap of Trump's Hawaii visit, Navy to hold sonar scoping meetings this week, lieutenant governor race gets more crowded, Honolulu police to test body cams, sewage causing Maui reef ills, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Trump wears lei in Hawaii PC: Anthony Quintano/Civil Beat

Trump’s Hawaii Visit Inspires Supporters, But More Opponents. A lonely contingent of Honolulu Tea Party members were in a welcoming mood that wasn’t shared by people at a Capitol rally. Civil Beat.

Trump departs Hawaii for Japan after a short but busy visit. While in Hawaii, Trump did spend time talking to Hawaii’s government leaders and top military brass. On Friday, he met with the governors of Hawaii, Alaska and the Pacific U.S. territories. Trump and his advisers also attended a Friday briefing at Camp Smith with the commanders of Pacific Air Forces, U.S. Army Pacific, Marine Forces Pacific and other brass. He also got a private briefing later in the day. Star-Advertiser.


President Donald Trump visited one of his Trump-branded properties in Hawaii on Saturday shortly before he was scheduled to depart for Japan amid his 13-day trip to Asia. Politico.

President Donald Trump paid a solemn visit Friday to Pearl Harbor and its memorial to the USS Arizona, a hallowed place he said he had read about, discussed and studied but had never visited until just before opening his first official visit to Asia. Associated Press.

President Donald Trump is naming two of his local campaign supporters, Allen Frenzel and Gigi N. Jones, to oversee much of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s operations in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

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Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell is quietly putting his political weight behind the re-election campaign of Gov. David Ige in an alliance that appears to have already shifted some key Caldwell campaign staffers into the Ige camp. Star-Advertiser.

Former BOE member running for lieutenant governor. Former Board of Education member Kim Coco Iwamoto announced Sunday she is running for lieutenant governor to bring “courageous, compassionate leadership” to the office and “to set a tone of accountability that we are listening to the people.” Star-Advertiser.

Kim Coco Iwamoto announces bid for Lieutenant Governor. KITV.

The federal government wants to designate critical habitat for the endangered main Hawaiian Islands population of false killer whales. Garden Island.

U.S. Navy Holding Statewide Meetings. Navy officials will be presenting a draft environmental impact statement reevaluating potential impacts associated with ongoing military activities. Including: active sonar use and explosives while employing mitigation measures to protect marine life. Hawaii Public Radio.

The state’s largest health insurer says it has an estimated $20 million a year in “excessive and unnecessary” costs due to nonprofits paying health insurance premiums for patients, some of whom are on dialysis and could be covered by government health plans. Star-Advertiser.

Congressional Crackdown On The Shark Fin Trade. Harvesting shark fins has long been prohibited but loopholes in their sale has allowed an underground trade to continue. Civil Beat.

Upgraded Website Provides Updates on Beach Water Quality. Big Island Now.

New advocacy group aims to put kids first in educational policy. Star-Advertiser.

Quarrel at PUC meeting sparks discussion on conduct. An an unusual use of taxpayer money, the state Public Utilities Commission met Thursday to discuss an argument that broke out between a state worker and an attorney at an informal industry meeting Oct. 11. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Ruth’s Chris restaurants changing ownership. Ruth’s Hospitality Group Inc. said Friday it is acquiring the six Hawaii Ruth’s Chris Steak House locations from franchise partner Desert Island Restaurants for about $35 million. Star-Advertiser.

Ruth’s Hospitality Group Inc. said Friday that it is acquiring six Hawaii Ruth’s Chris Steak House restaurants from franchisee Desert Island Restaurants for approximately $35 million in cash. Pacific Business News.

Real estate firm Coldwell Pacific buys rival. The firm announced Friday that it acquired the Oahu operations of Century 21 All Islands Fine Homes & Estates, which includes four offices and about 150 agents. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

The Navy is holding a public meeting today as it re-evaluates the environmental impacts of training, research and testing — particularly from sonar and explosive sound effects on marine animals — over a wide swath of ocean between Southern California and the Hawaiian Islands. Star-Advertiser.

HPD to start bodycam pilot program. Honolulu Police Department's body camera pilot program is set to begin Monday following an initial delay. Hawaii News Now.

Explosive Motion Calls For Ouster Of Kealoha Attorneys. The Justice Department claims conflicts of interest should disqualify defense attorneys Myles Breiner and Kevin Sumida. Civil Beat.

Officer Charged In Corruption Case Challenges Police Commission. Minh-Hung “Bobby” Nguyen says the city should be paying for his legal defense against a related lawsuit. Civil Beat.

Missing School Has Become A Huge Problem in Hawaii. A Waianae school, where 40 percent of students are chronically absent, is trying home visits and a partnership with family court to keep kids in class. Civil Beat.

Public comments sought for Blaisdell Center face-lift. City officials are inviting the public to a third and final workshop next week for commenting on a plan to improve Blaisdell Center by renovating some parts and redeveloping other parts of the 53-year-old complex. Star-Advertiser.

Flashing lights, raised curbs among added pedestrian safety improvements in Waimanalo. Hawaii News Now.

'Dear Mayor': Students write letters asking for new lights at North Shore park. KITV.

A large fishing boat that ran aground off Waikiki three weeks ago is again raising concerns about safety. KHON2.

No Water For The Homeless At The Waianae Boat Harbor Camp. A repaving project at the boat harbor has been long planned but no one told homeless campers next door their water was being shut off. Civil Beat.


Home sales on Oahu saw a “healthy uptick” in the number of sales in October, compared to the same month last year, as the median price of a single-family home and condominium nudged up slightly, according to a report by Honolulu-based real estate firm Locations LLC. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Vacation house rules in works: Regulating ‘unhosted’ rentals seen as way to preserve housing for residents. Tribune-Herald.

Kawa revisited: Community groups, county grants in play five years after Lui eviction. West Hawaii Today.

Online auction and sales giant eBay has removed numerous listings advertising the sale of sand purported to be from Hawaii beaches, including iconic Papakolea Beach — also known as Green Sands Beach — after the Tribune-Herald inquired about the sand sales. Tribune-Herald.

State evaluates West Hawaii roads, says 4 miles classify as ‘poor’. On a given day, more than 16,000 cars come along this road, bringing travelers along the Mamalahoa Kona Heritage Corridor as it winds its way along the slopes of Hualalai through towns like Kainaliu, passing by historic buildings through Kona’s coffeelands. West Hawaii Today.

Nonemergencies put strain on hospital ER. Nearly one of every three Hilo emergency room patients isn’t actually experiencing a medical emergency. Tribune-Herald.

A Kona coffee farmer organization is complaining to state regulators that a California company is misleading consumers over the quantity of premium-priced Kona beans in a line of cold-brew coffee drinks. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s only exotic animal sanctuary receives full re-accreditation. Hawaii News Now.

A year-long, $4.2 million, capital improvement construction project is underway at Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Study links treated sewage to reef degradation. A new study by federal scientists has found that discharge from a sewage treatment facility in West Maui for years has been drastically undermining the coral reefs off Kahekili Beach Park. Star-Advertiser.

Affordable Housing Bill Introduced on Maui. A new bill has been introduced to the Maui County Council, proposing that housing be kept affordable for an extended period through deed restrictions. Maui Now.

Property tax bills move forward. The Maui County Council gave first reading approval Friday to two bills that would affect property tax classifications for short-term rentals, which some fear could lead to higher taxes. Maui News.

Rep. Kaniela Ing to Announce Run for Higher Office. State Representative Kaniela Saito Ing of Maui will hold a press conference on Monday to officially announce his 2018 candidacy for higher office. Maui Now.

Census says: Maui population growing, aging, working longer. Maui County’s population increased 17 percent from 2006 to 2016 with Hispanic and Latino people representing the fastest growing race, according to 2016 U.S. Census Bureau surveys released recently. Maui News.

Kauai

Navy meeting is on environmental impacts of testing, training. The Navy is taking another look at how training exercises are affecting the Pacific environment, and a meeting is set for Wednesday in Lihue to talk about it. Garden Island.

Kauai Island Utility Cooperative’s renewable energy project is taking another step forward, as KIUC has issued a request for qualifications for services and equipment supplies for the Pu‘u Opae Energy Project. Garden Island.

Kauai Island Utility Cooperative has issued a request for qualifications — called an RFQ — from companies that can provide services and equipment for the Pu‘u ‘Opae Energy Project. The RFQ is intended to draw responses from as many interested parties as possible for engineering, equipment supply and construction services. Star-Advertiser.

The Kauai Island Utility Cooperative will receive a loan of more than $60 million from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to build and upgrade more than 70 miles of powerlines and support smart grid and other projects. Garden Island.

The sterilization clinic at Kauai Humane Society is opening its doors back up to the public on Tuesday. Garden Island.

Honolulu picks first female police chief, prosecutors prepare to seize former chief's house, legislative leaders pick rail board members, lieutenant governor race gets crowded, Monsanto drops Molokai land plan, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu Police Chief Susan Ballard

Maj. Susan Ballard became Honolulu’s first female police chief today, taking over a department mired in a scandal that deposed her predecessor and cast a cloud over the entire force. Star-Advertiser.

Susan Ballard, a major with three decades of policing experience, will be the new chief of the Honolulu Police Department, the first woman to hold the top job in its 85-year history. Civil Beat.

'A new day': HPD major selected to lead department in crisis. Hawaii News Now.

Police Major Susan Ballard has been chosen to become the next Honolulu Police chief. KITV.

Four Honolulu police commissioners have selected the City and County’s next chief of police: Maj. Susan Ballard. KHON2.

Video: Honolulu Police Chief Selection Press Conference. Civil Beat.

In picking Maj. Susan Ballard as the island’s new police chief, the Honolulu Police Commission chose someone who’s been a commander within the Honolulu Police Department but — by several accounts including her own — was outside of the inner circle that flanked now-indicted and retired Chief Louis Kealoha. Star-Advertiser.

Maj. Susan Ballard: A closer look at Honolulu's next police chief. Of the seven finalists chosen for the Honolulu police chief position, current Maj. Susan Ballard was the only applicant currently still employed with HPD. Hawaii News Now.

Excitement surrounds pick for Honolulu’s next chief of police. KHON2.

Federal prosecutors are moving forward to have the Hawaii Kai home of former Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha and his city prosecutor wife Katherine Kealoha forfeited to the government. Star-Advertiser.

Covert Honolulu Police Unit Has Long History Of Troubles. The CIU is again under scrutiny, with five officers recently arrested as part of a federal investigation into police corruption. Civil Beat.

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Race for lieutenant governor gets more crowded, while congressional race remains quiet. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. announced today he will run in what is shaping up to be a crowded race for lieutenant governor next year. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai Mayor Wants To Be Hawaii’s Lieutenant Governor. Stressing education and family issues, Bernard Carvalho Jr. joins a crowded field of candidates for the state’s No. 2 job. Civil Beat.

Kauai Mayor Bernard Carvalho announced his candidacy for 2018 lieutenant governor of Hawaii in front of the State Capitol on Wednesday. Garden Island.

Kauai Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. has his eye on a new job. He announced Wednesday that he’s planning to run as a Democrat for lieutenant governor in 2018. KHON2.

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Legislative picks to sit on HART board announced. State Legislative leaders have announced their four picks to serve as nonvoting members on the volunteer Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation board, a provision of the $2.4 billion rail-bailout package they approved in September. Star-Advertiser.

Legislative Leaders Appoint Four People To Honolulu Rail Board. The state budget director and others are tasked with bringing more accountability to the project, even though they’re nonvoting members. Civil Beat.

State makes its 4 picks for HART board appointees. Under the rail funding bill that passed in the state legislature earlier this year, state leaders were tasked with appointing a total of four non-voting members to the HART board. Hawaii News Now.

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Southwest could face legal hiccup in Hawaii expansion. A union on the mainland is threatening to block the airline's expansion to the islands citing ongoing disputes. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii astronomer discovers ‘odd’ space object. A University of Hawaii astronomer discovered what appears to be the first near-Earth space object to have arrived here from beyond our solar system, the university announced Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s Filipino veterans and delegates finally get recognized. Star-Advertiser.

Filipino Veterans Presented Congressional Gold Medals. Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard and Senator Mazie K. Hirono joined other US Congressional leaders to present the Congressional Gold Medal to Filipino World War II veterans today at the US Capitol. Maui Now.

Hawaii Nonprofit Seeks A Statewide Effort To Fight Hunger. One in five children in the islands deals with hunger, according to a recent report. Civil Beat.

What if the Great Mahele Wasn't a Foreign Imposition? The concept of private property was introduced to Hawaii with the Great Mahele of 1848. That action is often blamed for a lack of land ownership among native Hawaiians…a situation that lasts to this day. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

City projects mark 1 year of housing homeless families. While state sheriff’s deputies swept more than 300 chronically homeless people from state land in Kakaako and below the H-1 freeway viaduct this month, the city quietly marked the first anniversary of two housing projects — one in Waianae and one in town — that provide permanent housing for homeless families. Star-Advertiser.

These Kalihi Streets Are A Big Hazard For Bike Riders. Honolulu DOT has plans for improving safety in the area, including repaving North King Street and adding shared-use lanes. Civil Beat.

'Good law' or 'dumb law'? Opinions on new distracted walking measure vary.  Hawaii News Now.

A 55-year-old, male teacher who was fired from all-girls Sacred Hearts Academy in Kaimuki has been arrested on suspicion of two counts of fourth-degree sex assault and three counts of third-degree sex assault, police said. Star-Advertiser.

A former Honolulu private school teacher who was fired after allegations of "inappropriate conduct" with students has been charged with two counts of sexual assault, police say. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Trash talking: Panel to decide solid waste direction for the decade. It’s time for the county to update its integrated solid waste management plan, a document required by state law every 10 years to ensure local governments keep on top of their trash, green waste, compost and recycling issues. West Hawaii Today.

Moon base prototype may be built on Big Island. The United States and other countries are planning to return to the moon. And the road back to the lunar surface may go through Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

Kamehameha Schools deliberate in removal of old Keahou Beach Hotel. West Hawaii Today.

North Hawaii Community Hospital is moving forward with a $25 million emergency room expansion. West Hawaii Today.

Maui


Tuesday morning’s severe thunderstorm and floods continued to erode Wailuku River and nearly destroyed a maintenance bridge regularly used by the Hawai’i Nature Center for educational programs in Iao Valley. Maui News.

Lights are back on after largest outage in a decade. More than 160 Maui Electric Co. workers and two contracted crews responded to the county’s biggest power outage in more than a decade early Tuesday morning in the wake of a thunderstorm that rolled through Maui County. Maui News.

The Department of Water Supply announced it has ended its declaration of a Stage 1 water shortage in the Upcountry district as the forecast indicates that probabilities favor above average rainfall for the upcoming wet season. Maui Now.

Kauai

School boundary changes draw fire. Many have questions about how it could affect students, families. Garden Island.

AES Distributed Energy Inc. and SunPower Corp. are developing a new solar-plus-storage facility on the Garden Isle, set to be the largest in the state. Pacific Business News.

Plastic storage pau. Surfrider Kauai looking for place to store marine debris. Garden Island.

The State Commission on Water Resource Management will be holding a public hearing at the Lihue Civic Center on Nov. 17 on proposed amendments to its administrative rules pertaining to water use, wells and stream diversion works. Garden Island.

Molokai

Monsanto withdraws request to preserve Molokai farmland. The corn seed producer notified the state Land Use Commission on Wednesday that it has withdrawn a petition to designate 1,084 acres for protection under a state law intended to preserve prime farmland. Star-Advertiser.

State finds $1M to battle rat lungworm, 6 arrested, one sent to ER in Maui telescope protest, Kauai rejects climate change money, Tokuda running for Lt. Gov., Hokulea plans 40-stop state tour, Honolulu gets state's first public hydrogen fueling station, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

The Mystery of Rat Lungworm Disease is an activity book designed by UH Hilo researchers to help local elementary-age children learn what to look for in their gardens and vegetables.

State officials are making a new push to combat rat lungworm disease, promising more public awareness efforts that urge vigilance in the cleaning of produce and planning to hire two workers dedicated to prevention. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. David Ige announced Wednesday that his administration is embarking on a two-year campaign aimed at curbing the spread of rat lungworm disease and soothing the public’s jitters over eating local produce. Civil Beat.

Hawaii health officials will use $1 million from the state Legislature to study rat lungworm prevalence in rats and fund a public information campaign targeting residents and tourists. Tribune-Herald.

The state has revealed its new strategy to battle a brain-infecting parasite. The Hawaii Department of Health didn't ask for funding to deal with rat lungworm disease during the last legislative session, but ended up receiving a total of $1 million for the next two years. Hawaii News Now.

The state is stepping up efforts to combat rat lungworm disease in Hawaii. KHON2.

Gov. David Ige, with the Hawai‘i Department of Health and the Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture announced today the state’s plans to place a stronger emphasis on the prevention of rat lungworm disease. Maui Now.

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State Sen. Jill Tokuda announced Wednesday she is running in what will likely be a crowded field of contenders next year seeking to be Hawaii’s next lieutenant governor. Star-Advertiser.

A state senator is making a move for the lieutenant governor seat. KHON2.

Sen. Jill Tokuda (D- Kaneohe) entered the race for Lieutenant Governor. She made the announcement at a campaign event at Honolulu YWCA Wednesday evening. KITV.

Sen. Jill Tokuda announce her candidacy for lieutenant governor during a campaign kickoff Wednesday at the Honolulu YWCA. Garden Island.

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Hawaii Gas requested rate adjustments Tuesday from the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission. Any changes are not expected to go into effect until mid-2018. Garden Island.

Hokulea, Hikianalia begin 40-stop cruise through the state. Maui News.

Oahu

The Honolulu City Council zoning committee deferred two bills Tuesday night that would have rezoned seven acres of agricultural land in Haleiwa to either residential or urban. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu Police Commission’s search for a new chief is expected to last through at least October, three months behind schedule. Star-Advertiser.

Servco Pacific Inc. officials and Gov. David Ige broke ground Wednesday for the first publicly accessible hydrogen fueling station on Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii is building its first public fueling station for hydrogen vehicles, which will enable the state to begin selling cars that only emit water vapor. Associated Press.

Hawaii Gas is seeking to increase a typical Oahu customer’s bills by nearly 20 percent. Star-Advertiser.

Holu Energy LLC, the Hawaii subsidiary of EnSync Energy Inc., has inked a 20-year power purchase agreement with Hawaii Pacific University to build a 310-kilowatt solar photovoltaic system on the roof of the Aloha Tower Marketplace in Downtown Honolulu. Pacific Business News.

Oregon-based energy storage company Powin Energy Corp. will install software and infrastructure to seven Hawaii sites, including the Boy Scouts of America's Honolulu headquarters and the Aqua Kauai Beach Resort, to maximize their bottom lines through storing solar energy not used during daylight hours. Pacific Business News.

More than a hundred people have signed a petition against a Biki Bike station planned for Kolowalu Park. KITV.

Special-duty officers look to thwart potential trespassers on Haiku Stairs. KHON2.

A mid-rise hotel slated to open on the outskirts of downtown Kapolei in late October can expect some close competition in a couple of years. Star-Advertiser.

Prior crew found plane unsafe before it crashed. Star-Advertiser.

HART to pay for repaving of OCCC's parking lot, raising questions from critics. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Mayor Harry Kim declared a state of emergency Tuesday to pave the way for the relocation of several homeless individuals residing at the Old Airport Park who had been told they must vacate the premises by that date. West Hawaii Today.

The day before the county will enforce a no-camping policy at the Old Airport Park in Kona, Mayor Kim issues an Emergency Proclamation regarding the Hale Kikaha Project. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii County Council members thought something just didn’t smell right when reviewing the latest list of change orders for county projects. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

After a handful of activists were arrested Tuesday in protests against a controversial telescope planned for Haleakala, some are claiming Maui police officers used excessive force despite a peaceful demonstration. Hawaii News Now.

Showdown in Pukalani. Protesters attempt to stop telescope convoy; 6 people arrested. Maui News.

Law enforcement officers arrested a total of six individuals early this morning at the site of a demonstration held to protest ongoing construction of a telescope atop Haleakalā. One individual was also injured and was taken off site by paramedics during the incident for treatment at the hospital emergency room. Maui Now.

Maui police arrested six people Wednesday after they allegedly tried to block trucks hauling equipment for the Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope project at Haleakala. Star-Advertiser.

Six arrests were made when protesters tried to block an equipment convoy for a solar telescope being built on a Hawaii mountain held sacred by some Native Hawaiians. Associated Press.

Maui Police arrested six protestors involved in demonstrations against a contested solar telescope project on Haleakala summit. KITV.

Police arrested two women and four men early Wednesday morning as they tried to block the passage of a large vehicle convoy carrying equipment to the summit of Haleakala for construction of the Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope, according to an announcement from the state Department of Land and Natural Resources. Maui Now.

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Plans for further development on South Maui have been rejected at least for the moment. The latest proposal would have included housing, office and retail space on 75 acres in North Kīhei. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Department of Education is facing criticism for its handling of a bus driver shortage that will affect students on Maui. KHON2.

Kauai

Kauai County Council members have rejected $100,000 in private donations to fund a climate action plan for their rural island, which is particularly susceptible to rising sea levels, stronger storms and other effects of climate change. Civil Beat.

After reflecting on a decision to freeze vacant county positions for six months, Ken Shimonishi, director of finance, said it was not practical. Garden Island.

Molokai


A meeting is being held today on Molokai to discuss plans for a former bombing range. Hawaii Public Radio.