Military feeds Hawaii economy, Army identifies crew lost in Black Hawk crash, PETA asks Omidyar to cease Kauai dairy plans, Honolulu rail special session nears, mumps hits Big Island school, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Pearl Harbor aerial view © 2017 All Hawaii News

Military Buildup Is A Boost For Pearl Harbor Shipyard. Amid rising tensions in Asia, hundreds of workers are being hired and aging dry dock facilities are being replaced. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Dredging Construction Co. Inc. on Monday was awarded a contract of more than $60.6 million from the U.S. Department of Defense for the construction of two facilities at the Marine Corps Base Hawaii at Kaneohe Bay. Pacific Business News.

Cultural access to military training grounds in Mākua Valley began in a court battle between the military and the native Hawaiian community. Nearly two decades later, the cultural access program has begun to foster a transformation in mutual understanding and relationship building. Hawaii Public Radio.

Officials announced Monday that they have suspended the search for five Army soldiers who were in a helicopter crash during offshore training in Hawaii last week. Associated Press.

Army families in North Carolina, Alabama, Texas, Kentucky and Tennessee on Monday received the news they had been dreading: The search for the crew of a downed Black Hawk helicopter off Kaena Point on Oahu had ended with no recoveries. Star-Advertiser.

The Army said they are committed to recovering the remains of the missing aviators. After five days of searching, only four helmets were recovered. KITV.

Legislators eye Honolulu general excise tax surcharge extension plus increase in transient accommodations taxes for rail. Star-Advertiser.

Why Hotels Will Likely Get Stuck With Honolulu Rail Tab. State lawmakers also want a thorough audit of the beleaguered project. Civil Beat.

Public frustrated over rail's price tag, management ... but they still want to see it finished. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii’s new school superintendent says she’s not going to tell school leaders how to do their jobs or second-guess decisions they’ve made about what’s best for students. Civil Beat.

Hawaii hotel executive Elliot Mills has been named to a five-year term on the board of trustees for Kamehameha Schools, the educational trust supported by a multibillion-dollar endowment. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

The Sierra Club is suing the state Department of Health over leaks from the Navy’s fuel storage facility at Red Hill. Star-Advertiser.

The city is expected to begin work on an $85.7 million sewer rehabilitation project in Nuuanu Valley next summer. Civil Beat.

A Honolulu City Council Committee will conduct a public hearing Tuesday on a bill to retrofit older high rises with fire sprinkler systems. Hawaii Public Radio.

Honolulu Police Commissioner Loretta Sheehan sent a letter Monday to HPD's Acting Chief Cary Okimoto, saying the public has a right to know about the termination of Darren Cachola, a former sergeant, who is trying to get his job back. Hawaii News Now.

Abigail Kawananakoa’s former attorney and now trustee of her $200 million estate formally asked the court Monday to appoint a neutral party to investigate the legal issues and circumstances surrounding the Campbell Estate heiress and to authorize independent medical examinations. Star-Advertiser.

The city Monday added Pacific Street in Iwilei and several areas from Victoria to McCully streets to the long list of commercial areas where people can no longer sit or lie. Star-Advertiser.

Pearl City High School is reaching out to the community for help controlling the population of feral cats that call the school grounds home. KHON2.

The erosion at Kuhio Beach in Waikiki has reached a new level. KHON2.

Ala Moana Center plans to add another collection of dining establishments at Hawaii’s largest shopping mall in October with the opening of what it is calling The Lanai @ Ala Moana. Star-Advertiser.

After Waikiki's Shore Bird Restaurant and Beach Bar at the Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort closes its doors on Sept. 30, the hotel will refresh the space and quickly open a new restaurant, called the Reef Bar and Market Grill. Pacific Business News.

After 38 years, Waikiki's popular 'Shore Bird' restaurant set to close. Hawaii News Now.

The number of luxury homes in escrow at the end of July increased 14 percent from last year, according to Coldwell Banker Pacific Properties, offsetting decreases in activity that occurred in May and June. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Water usage restrictions applied to all of North Kona banning residential irrigation and the recreational washing of boats and vehicles will persist for at least two more months. West Hawaii Today.

A statewide mumps outbreak has hit a Ka‘u classroom. West Hawaii Today.

A Hilo businesswoman who filed a lawsuit last year against Hilo Lanes Inc., claiming its owners reneged on a signed deal to sell the property to her, has added a defendant to her lawsuit — the parent company of Cost-U-Less, the business next door to the long-vacant bowling alley. Tribune-Herald.

Sunday's passing storm brought rain and thunder, and apparently some snow, to the Big Island of Hawaii. Big Island Video News.

Maui

The Haiku Community Association will host a public meeting from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the Haiku Community Center for a panel discussion of a proposal to amend the Paia-Haiku Community Plan. Maui News.

Armstrong Development recently held a topping off ceremony at its Keala o Wailea development on Maui, marking a milestone in construction as the roof was added to the seventh and final building. Maui Now.

Kauai

PETA urges Ebay founder to call off plans for Kauai dairy farm. In a letter to eBay's founder Pierre Omidyar, an animals rights group called upon the billionaire to scrap plans for a Kauai dairy farm citing environmental and animal safety concerns. Hawaii News Now.

Pierre Omidyar’s plan to put an industrial dairy farm on Kauai has been detailed in national rags, and most recently an Aug. 13 article in The New York Times gave some space to the controversy. The dairy is being proposed as a 699-cow operation that could be expanded to a herd of 2,000 pregnant dairy cows on about 557 acres in Mahaulepu Valley near Poipu. Garden Island.

The Kauai County Housing Agency Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program will be accepting applications for its Section 8 HCV waiting list during the open period from 8 a.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 6, to 4 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 8. Garden Island.

KCC enrollment rises. Classes begin same day as eclipse. Garden Island.

Hokulea begins statewide mahalo tour, red flags in Honolulu rail audit, Maui police say cams justify actions during telescope protest, marijuana dispensaries reopen, census to count Micronesians, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hokulea farewell stop at Hilo Bay © 2017 All Hawaii News

Hokulea, the traditional Polynesian canoe replica left Sand Island on Wednesday afternoon for Maui’s Honolua Bay, kicking off its “Mahalo Hawaii” statewide sail. Star-Advertiser.

The Mahalo, Hawaii sail kicks off this afternoon, and the Polynesian Voyaging Society has a lot to mahalo. For most of its 40 plus years in existence, PVS has been a small budget operation until now. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hokulea set off on a brand new voyage Wednesday afternoon. The canoe left O'ahu bound for the Valley Isle in what's being called its 'Mahalo, Hawai'i Sail.' KITV.

The Hokulea departed the Marine Education Training Center at Sand Island today, Aug. 16, to begin the six-month Mahalo, Hawaii Sail. Maui Now.

Hokulea’s arrival at Honolua Bay today will mark the start of the voyaging canoe’s Mahalo, Hawai’i Sail and kick off a weekend of events celebrating the canoe’s return after a three-year world tour. Maui News.

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Two federal agencies announced Wednesday that they will conduct a census of Micronesians living in Hawaii and three island territories. Civil Beat.


A Joint Legislative Committee conducted another informational hearing on Affordable Housing today. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii is facing a crisis because of a lack of affordable housing. So lawmakers met with a number of developers to find out what they can do get construction going. KITV.

Days after of running out of supply due to high demand, the state's two medical cannabis dispensaries have reopened. Hawaii News Now.

State revives program to review child deaths, inspire changes to reduce them. KHON2.

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The search for five crew members from an Army Black Hawk helicopter that went down off Oahu’s Kaena Point on a nighttime training mission stretched into a second night Wednesday as the Coast Guard remained on the scene and soldiers held out hope that the missing would be found. Star-Advertiser.

A multi-agency team scoured the ocean off Hawaii on Wednesday for five soldiers aboard an Army helicopter that went down during a nighttime training exercise. Associated Press.

After more than 30 hours, the massive air and sea search continues for five missing soldiers who were on board an Army chopper that crashed late Tuesday off Oahu. Hawaii News Now.

Two pilots and three crew members were on board an Army helicopter that crashed off Hawaii. Associated Press.

Search and rescue crews from the U.S. Coast Guard, Army, Honolulu Fire Department, and Ocean Safety have entered their second day in looking for a downed Army UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter approximately two miles west of Kaena Point, Oahu, Thursday. KHON2.

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A state representative is speaking out after receiving a strongly worded, vulgar letter from a person who she says is a self-proclaimed Trump supporter. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii Medical Service Association reported net income of $6.3 million for the quarter ending June 30, a 48 percent decrease from 2016’s comparable period, which saw net income of $12.3 million. Pacific Business News.

Depending how the legal fight over Abigal Kawananakoa’s $215 million fortune turns out, the 91-year-old princess’s foundation could enter the pantheon of Native Hawaiian trusts that today wield tremendous wealth and power on the islands. Civil Beat.

Scholarship money from the Office of Hawaiian Affairs will be going only to students at the University of Hawaii system this academic year, officials said. Associated Press.

Gov. David Ige will provide opening remarks at the 2017 Hawaii Annual Code Challenge (HACC) Kickoff on Aug. 26, welcoming hundreds of anticipated computer programmers, software developers and tech-minded innovators to launch the four-week, hackathon-inspired competition. Garden Island.

Hawaii’s household debt per capita was $68,500 in 2016, the highest among the 50 states but lower than the District of Columbia, according to the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. Pacific Business News.

According to data released by the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism, international students had an estimated direct, indirect and induced impact of $484 million during academic year 2017. This is 25 percent less than 2016, when international students contributed $649 million. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii’s nonprofit arts and culture sector is a more than $200 million industry, according to a study released by Americans for the Arts. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Auditor says probe of rail agency raised ‘red flags.' While he found no evidence of fraud while conducting an audit of the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation last spring, “the red flags were there” to suggest there may have been. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council's Budget Committee on Wednesday approve a resolution calling for a follow-up audit of the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation, whose management was slammed by a similar audit last year. Hawaii News Now.

Smaller units, more housing, less space. That's the idea behind a new micro-unit apartment building proposed for Kakaako. Hawaii News Now.

A state board overseeing development in Kakaako is one step closer to overhauling its affordable-housing production requirements after a hearing Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Concrete removal mixed with high tides lead to brown water in Waikiki. The water near the Duke Kahanamoku statue raised concerns from environmentalist and beach goers this week after murky clouds were seen just off shore. Hawaii News Now.

Servco Pacific Inc. and Toyota have partnered to launch a smartphone-controlled car rental service in Honolulu. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

The Kailua Village Design Commission Tuesday deferred taking action on a proposed four-story hotel on Henry Street after commissioners raised concerns about the building’s color scheme and topography of the area where it would be built. Tribune-Herald.

Former police officer pleads no contest in road rage incident, receives 6 months probation. West Hawaii Today.

The Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel will become The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort next year after Mauna Kea Resort LLC signed a franchise agreement with Westin Hotels &Resorts. West Hawaii Today.

Officials with the Hawaii Electric Light Company gave a presentation to the Hawaii County Council’s Agriculture, Water & Energy Sustainability Committee on Tuesday. Big Island Video News.

Maui

A preliminary review of police body camera footage during a protest against a convoy of telescope materials headed to the Haleakala summit shows officers followed procedures and acted properly, Police Chief Tivoli Faaumu said Wednesday. Maui News.

The county water department’s call for voluntary water restrictions Upcountry moved into its fourth week this week with the department reporting Wednesday that “there has been no noticeable decline in consumption overall.” Maui News.

Kauai

The state is looking into a mysterious, tar-like substance reported in the tidepools on the eastern side of Mahaulepu. Garden Island.

Search on for five crew members of downed Black Hawk off Kaena Point, Ige downplays budget surplus, Honolulu council to consider rail audit, Hawaii representatives jump into Trump fray, Kauai rat eradication on hold, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. David Ige

The state government ended the last fiscal year with a near-record budget surplus of more than $893 million, but Gov. David Ige’s administration is downplaying that seemingly cheery snapshot of the state’s finances. Star-Advertiser.

The U.S. Coast Guard and the Honolulu Fire Department are searching this morning for five crew members of an Army Black Hawk helicopter that went down off Oahu’s Kaena Point late Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Rescue crews are searching for an Army UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter with five people aboard that crashed about two miles off Kaena Point late Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

Coast Guard, Army and Honolulu Fire Department crews are responding to a report of a downed Army UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter with five crew aboard approximately two miles west of Kaena Point, Oahu, Wednesday. KHON2.

Debris Field of Downed Army Helicopter Spotted off Oahu. Maui Now.

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The Hawaii Attorney General’s Office is entering the legal fight over who controls the $200 million trust of Abigail Kawananakoa so that it can protect the interests of Native Hawaiians who are in line to receive a large share of the money when she dies. Civil Beat.

A trustee of Abigail Kawananakoa's estate is calling on the state to investigate allegations of physical abuse of the 91-year-old Hawaiian royalty descendant by her longtime partner. Hawaii News Now.

Members of Hawaii’s congressional delegation were among a growing number of elected officials distancing themselves Tuesday from President Donald Trump following the president’s remarks that again blamed “both sides” for the deadly violence over the weekend at a white supremacist rally in Charlottesville, Va. Star-Advertiser.

Sen. Brian Schatz: Trump Is ‘Not My President’ The Hawaii Democrat tweeted, “As a Jew, as an American, as a human, words cannot express my disgust and disappointment.” Civil Beat.

Bob McDermott, candidate for Hawaii governor, is sticking up for President Trump as the commander-in-chief takes heat for his remarks over the violence in Charlottesville, Virginia this weekend. Hawaii News Now.

U.S. Deputy Secretary of the Interior David Bernhardt on Tuesday announced more than $500,000 is headed to Hawaii state wildlife agencies through the State Wildlife Grants program. West Hawaii Today.

Uncertainty surrounding Obamacare dragged down the financial results last quarter of the state’s two largest health insurers. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

A resolution calling on city Auditor Edwin Young to conduct an economy and efficiency audit of Honolulu’s troubled rail project is to be taken up during a special meeting of the City Council Budget Committee at 9 a.m. today. Star-Advertiser.

As lawmakers grapple with how to pay for a $3 billion shortfall for Honolulu's rail project, supporters are trying to influence them with a new survey and public relations campaign. Hawaii News Now.

The city’s bulky-item pickup program is badly in need of an overhaul, according to a scathing report issued Monday by city Auditor Edwin Young. Star-Advertiser.

Employees of the city’s garbage service abuse overtime, sick time and paid time off, according to a city audit of the Department of Environmental Services bulky item collection service. Civil Beat.

Starting today, those seeking building permits on Oahu might need to pay additional fees and do additional work as new water quality rules take effect, according to a release issued by the Department of Planning and Permitting this week. Star-Advertiser.

Surf, scuba schools skirting the boundaries? KITV.

After community outcry, the Kahala Resort and Hotel has pulled its environmental assessment to expand wedding venue options. Hawaii News Now.

Tension escalates on Haiku Stairs after trespassing hiker reportedly shot by pellet gun. KHON2.

Chinatown Has A New Shelter For The Homeless Mentally Ill. Not everyone is happy about the relocation of the Safe Haven shelter to a new spot four blocks away. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu Zoo’s endangered Sumatran tiger, Berani, was euthanized Monday. Star-Advertiser.

Embassy Suites by Hilton, one of three hotels planned for West Oahu and the second of its kind in Hawaii, will open in October. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii County

Endangered coots and stilts that call the Kealakehe sewer treatment plant home will get a little extra protection, thanks to a business seeking to offset bird losses on its own site. West Hawaii Today.

The preservation of Hawaiian Stilts and Hawaiian Coots nesting in the lagoons of the Kealakehe Wastewater Treatment Plant was on the agenda for the Hawaii County Council Environmental Management Committee Tuesday. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii County Council members advanced a resolution Tuesday supporting a skate park in Hilo after hearing from skateboarders and Paradise Roller Girls members disappointed with years of delays. Tribune-Herald.

Kona spaceport plan yet unfit for takeoff. West Hawaii Today.

A Kohala Hospital nurse is suing the hospital on claims of discrimination and a hostile work environment. West Hawaii Today.

The Seattle developer that built a Holiday Inn Express & Suites on Hawaii’s Big Island is planning a similar hotel project on a four-acre parcel in Kailua-Kona. Pacific Business News.

Maui

A plan to reduce flood risks at a Maui river isn't sitting well with some who are concerned over the site's historic value. Hawaii News Now.

State Representative Angus McKelvey of Maui is renewing his call for a specific timeline for resolution of the school bus crisis on Maui as frustrated parents want to know when the situation will be resolved. Maui Now.

A typical 10-minute drive to school has morphed into hourlong traffic jams for Lahaina students as the state Department of Education and its new school bus contractor Ground Transport continue to struggle to find bus drivers. Maui News.

It's been just over a month since Kaiser Permanente took over operations at three Maui County hospitals. But the new chief executive officer of the hospitals is already moving on. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai

The Lehua Island rat eradication project is on hold pending two permits, and the state permitting agency wants to make sure details are ironed out before giving the go-ahead. Garden Island.

Kauai Island Utility Cooperative on Monday said it filed a proposal with the state Public Utilities Commission that would provide customers with two new options to receive credit when installing a solar system. Pacific Business News.

Officials, residents worry over North Korea threat, first marijuana dispensary opens, gag order rescinded in foster care death, endangered monk seal pup to be moved, Honolulu homeless sweeps continue, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

North Korea missile test, photo released by government

As the heated rhetoric between President Donald Trump and North Korea reaches a boiling point, the chances of Hawaii, with its large military bases, being pulled into the conflict are increasing as well. Civil Beat.


Two members of Hawaii’s congressional delegation expressed faith in the head of U.S. Pacific Command and the U.S. military Tuesday and called for diplomacy as North Korea threatened a missile strike on Guam. Star-Advertiser.


In a live interview with Hawaii News Now Tuesday, U.S. Congresswoman Colleen Hanabusa said she believes the threat from North Korea to Hawaii is minimal. Hawaii News Now.


Concern from former residents of Guam about what the threat from North Korea could mean for their family still living there. KITV.

Hawaii bankruptcy filings remained at historically low levels last month as they fell 8.3 percent to the smallest July total in 10 years. Star-Advertiser.

Matson Inc. said Monday that it will introduce service to Tahiti, providing twice a month arrivals from the U.S. Mainland and Honolulu to French Polynesia. Pacific Business News.


Oahu

The City Council is expected to vote Wednesday on making it easier for the Honolulu Board of Water Supply to transfer the Haiku Stairs to another government agency — a key step if the popular but legally off-limits trail atop the Koolaus is to be saved. Civil Beat.

A bill that would create a new, low-cost spaying and neutering option for feral or community cats is scheduled for a final vote by the Honolulu City Council today. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu’s Neuter Now program helps pet owners sterilize their cats and dogs at reduced rates and costs taxpayers $500,000 annually. Now some members of the Honolulu City Council want a portion of that money to fund the effort to sterilize Oahu’s feral cat population. Civil Beat.

Government officials have decided to relocate an endangered Hawaiian monk seal pup from a popular beach in Waikiki to a remote, undisclosed shoreline on Oahu amid safety concerns for the animal and the public. Civil Beat.

Kaimana, the Hawaiian monk seal pup officially known as PO3, will be moved to a “remote, undisclosed shoreline area” so she can grow up wild and with less human interaction than she’s having in Waikiki, state officials announced today. Star-Advertiser.

Kaimana, the monk seal to be relocated to remote Oahu beach. KITV.

A Hawaii marine park's purchase of Kina, a 40-year-old false killer whale long used in echolocation research, has reignited a debate about captive marine mammals and the places that care for them. Associated Press.

At the Waikiki Neighborhood Board Meeting Tuesday night, community members voiced concerns over the future of the state's largest boat harbor. Hawaii's Land and Natural Resource's Division of Boating and Ocean Resources is looking at ways to redevelop the Ala Wai Small Boat Harbor and generate additional revenue. Hawaii News Now.

A North Shore preservation group initiated state hearings this week to force the developer of a 25-megawatt wind facility to improve its habitat conservation plan for the endangered Hawaiian hoary bat. Star-Advertiser.

A special city clean-up crew Tuesday began dismantling dozens of homeless encampments on Navy land fronting Blaisdell Park from Hawaiian Electric Co.’s Waiau power plant to Waimalu Stream. Star-Advertiser.

The City began clearing homeless encampments along the Pearl Harbor Bike Trail today fronting Neal Blaisdell Park. Hawaii Public Radio.

City says Topgolf interested in possible partnership at Ala Wai Golf Course. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

A family court judge has rescinded a gag order in the case involving 3-year-old Fabian Garett-Garcia, who died while in foster care last month. West Hawaii Today.

Several Hawaii Island lawmakers are opposed to having neighbor island taxpayers shoulder some of the burden for Honolulu’s cash-strapped rail system. Others are taking a wait-and-see approach. West Hawaii Today.

A Hu Honua Bioenergy official says construction of its biomass power plant near Pepeekeo is moving “full speed ahead” and is on track to be complete in December 2018. Tribune-Herald.

Hilo is on pace to have one of its drier years on record, and July’s rainfall totals brought little if any relief to drought-affected areas of the Big Island, according to the National Weather Service in Honolulu. Tribune-Herald.

Efforts to maintain and restore the Kawaihae watershed will get a funding boost from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Big Island Video News.

Hilo Hattie is returning to the Big Island of Hawaii next month with a new store in Kailua-Kona. Pacific Business News.

Maui

Hawaii history was made today with the first legal sale of marijuana, nearly two decades after the state approved the use of pot for medical purposes. Star-Advertiser.

First Hawaii Dispensary Approved For Medical Marijuana Sales. Maui Grown Therapies gets the green light from the state Department of Health. Civil Beat.

Dispensary sales of medical marijuana in Hawaii are beginning after patients waited 17 years for a legal way to purchase the drug. Associated Press.

Hawaii’s first medical cannabis dispensary has received the green light from the state Department of Health to begin selling products to registered patients, 17 years after its legalization. Pacific Business News.

Maui Wellness Group, LLC dba Maui Grown Therapies is the first licensed medical cannabis dispensary in the state to receive the green light from the Hawai‘i Department of Health to begin selling medical cannabis to registered patients and their caregivers. Maui Now.

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Maui Judge Rhonda Loo today ruled against plaintiffs in a lawsuit that challenged the handling of rule changes made by the Liquor Control Commission. Maui Now.

Parents with children attending Lahainaluna High School on Monday called the suspended school bus service “messed up” and wondered how long it would last. Maui News.

Maui police responded to 77 burglaries, 87 vehicle thefts and 140 vehicle break-ins in Maui County for the month of July. Two of the burglaries happened on Lānaʻi and one of the vehicle thefts and break-ins occurred on Molokaʻi. Maui Now.

Kauai

Shorelines change on Kauai throughout the year as currents and other factors move the sand around, raise tides and cause occasional flooding. But these routine changes in the environment are getting turbocharged, according to scientists. Garden Island.

Governor Ige attends NTBG fundraiser. Gov. Ige attends Moonlight & Music at McBryde Garden. Garden Island.

The Kapaa Public Library is temporarily closed until further notice, due to the unexpected death of one of its staff members. Garden Island.

Polystyrene foam ban resurfaces in Honolulu, Maui police deny excessive force in telescope protester arrests, Big Island mayor cancels geothermal health studies, Kona homeless get new tent city, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Polystyrene lunch plate © 2017 All Hawaii News

An effort to bar Oahu businesses from using foam takeout containers has been renewed, this time by a Honolulu City Council member who said she opposed a similar proposal in 2004. Star-Advertiser.

‘Biocontrol Agents’ Could Be Used To Kill Albizia In Hawaii. Moths, mites, weevils, beetles, even a fungus, are under consideration as a way to stop the spread of the invasive tree in the islands. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s college graduates are managing student debt better than their peers anywhere else in the country, according to a new WalletHub report released this week. Tribune-Herald.

More than eight months after issuing a request for landowners in Hawaii willing to host renewable energy projects, Hawaiian Electric Co. said this week that it has compiled a list of potential sites, but it’s not saying where they are. Pacific Business News.

Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc.’s earnings fell 12 percent in the second quarter, as its utilities saw a decrease in profits. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc. reported second-quarter net income of $38.7 million, or 36 cents per diluted share, compared to net income of $44.1 million, or 41 cents per diluted share, for the same quarter a year ago. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

The number of mumps cases at Oahu Community Correctional Center has more than doubled in less than a month, accounting for nearly 10 percent of the state’s outbreak, which now tops 200 cases. Star-Advertiser.

Fast-acting work crews prevented a mainland bat from escaping a container ship docked at Honolulu Harbor on Monday, according to state officials. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council has sided with an advisory board and an overwhelming community view to reject a developer’s proposal to rezone farmland on the fringe of Haleiwa town for residential use. Star-Advertiser.

A midrise rental apartment building reserved for residents with incomes up to the median in Honolulu will begin accepting tenant applications Aug. 18 in preparation for an opening by the end of this month. Star-Advertiser.

Howard Hughes Corporation Kakaako Development Update. Ward Warehouse in Kakaako closed earlier this week and is scheduled to be torn down by the end of the year. Hawaii Public Radio.

City transportation officials told a Honolulu City Council committee Thursday they are looking at redesigning and reducing the size of 11 traffic bulb-outs in Chinatown that merchants, customers and residents have complained about. Star-Advertiser.

A pedestrian safety measure in Chinatown is irking area businesses, who say it's hurting their bottom line. Hawaii News Now.

A nonprofit wants turn a former fishing shed at Kewalo Basin into a cultural and educational center. Hawaii News Now.

The median price for condominiums on Oahu hit an all-time high of $425,000 in July, rising 6 percent from the same month a year ago, according to a report by Honolulu-based real estate firm Locations. Pacific Business News.

Dozens of community members gathered Thursday inside Kapolei High School's cafeteria to have their questions and concerns heard, as Congresswoman Colleen Hanabusa discussed the latest news out of the nation's capital. KITV.

The University of Hawaii Manoa student newspaper is hoping for a student fee increase to help it survive in the digital age. Civil Beat.

Former Honolulu police officer Jessie Laconsay,  who is already serving a 10 year sentence for sexually assaulting a teen, faces even more punishment. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

A bill that would allow Hawaii County to spend its geothermal royalties on “community health and safety projects” will be sent to the Planning Commission for review. Tribune-Herald.

Mayor Harry Kim has canceled two geothermal studies previously approved by the Windward Planning Commission. The studies would have looked at health impacts of geothermal development in Puna and dispersion of hydrogen sulfide during steam releases. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County Department of Parks and Recreation maintenance crews had their hands — and their trucks — full Wednesday, as they cleared out rubbish from the Old Airport Park in preparation for a cleanup effort set for Aug. 9-10. West Hawaii Today.

Some of those who were previously camping at Old Kona Airport have been relocated under tents next to Hale Kikaha. Big Island Video News.

There's nothing fancy about the Big Island's new homeless safe zone. It's just a row of pop-up tents, a few portable toilets and some showers. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

Roads leading to the summit of Haleakala are once again open to the public today. Park officials say the construction convoy delivering equipment for the new Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope was successful. This follows the latest round of protests against the solar telescope under construction. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui police said a preliminary review of reports and video from the arrest of a protester on Haleakala Wednesday shows that officers acted within department policy in forcibly restraining him before he fell unconscious in handcuffs. Star-Advertiser.

Police force on Maui has been questioned following an injury reported during an arrest of one of the demonstrators during the Kāko’o Haleakala protest early Wednesday morning. Maui Now.

Some are claiming that Maui officers used excessive force during a protest of the controversial Haleakala telescope project, and are pointing to cell phone video circulating online as evidence of their charges. Hawaii News Now.

The Maui County Council’s Land Use Committee unanimously voted against approval for a conditional permit to allow special events at the “Lona Ridge” property in Wailuku. Maui Now.

A shortage of bus drivers on Maui has forced state officials to suspend bus rides for students at three schools and limit rides for students at one school. Associated Press.

Frustration is mounting on Maui as parents learn new bus pickup times for their kids still aren’t set or are set too late. KHON2.

Kauai

Days from the first potential drop of 10 tons of rodenticide on Lehua Island, some are still demanding the state respond to unanswered questions. Garden Island.

The Navy announced today that it successfully tracked a medium-range ballistic missile target in flight off Kauai with the new AN/SPY-6(V) Air and Missile Defense Radar on July 27. Star-Advertiser.

When some Kauai County Councilmembers voted against funding to develop a Climate Action Plan, it was because they did not know what it hoped to accomplish. Garden Island.

Group sinks teeth into General Plan Update. Garden Island.

A Lihue man awaiting trial on charges of producing child pornography told Kauai police that he had sexually assaulted seven boys and girls over a span of eight or nine years, according to a recently unsealed U.S. District Court document. Star-Advertiser.

Telescope battles on two islands, school bus driver shortage forces route cancellations, former Honolulu reporter snarled in Fox News Trump allies lawsuit, 'Fat Leonard' bribery case involves Hawaii's Seventh Fleet, gun range plan advances, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Haleakala protest screenshot from FB live, Barbara Heil Barry

How the world’s largest solar telescope rose on Maui while nearby protests derailed a larger scope. Science.

Several arrests were made early this morning as members of the group Kāko’o Haleakalā demonstrated overnight, attempting to block a convoy transporting large loads to the Daniel K Inouye Solar Telescope atop Haleakalā on Maui. Maui Now.

Several arrests were made early Wednesday as police cracked down on dozens of activists blocking the road leading to the summit of Haleakala in protest of construction of a four meter telescope. Hawaii News Now.

Dozens of protesters of all ages waved signs along Kula Highway Tuesday evening to voice their opposition toward building the Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope. KITV.

The narrow winding road leading up to Haleakala National Park was scheduled to be closed to traffic for several hours late Tuesday during a planned delivery of materials to the Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope site — where protesters opposed to the project were expected. Star-Advertiser.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources Chair today announced that it will implement a temporary closure of unencumbered lands on Haleakalā to protect public safety during the equipment convoy that starts today. Maui Now.

With materials for the controversial solar telescope on Haleakala still hours away, more than 80 protesters prepared to confront the delivery trucks on a grassy triangle outside King Kekaulike High School on Tuesday evening. Maui News.

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Office of Hawaiian Affairs trustees say they will sue the University of Hawaii and the state for alleged mismanagement at Mauna Kea. Hawaii News Now.

A Native Hawaiian fisherman is asking an environmental court to stop Hawaii officials from issuing commercial fishing licenses to those who aren’t legally admitted into the United States. Associated Press.

The Hawaii Medical Service Association is seeking to boost health insurance rates next year by an average 27.1 percent, while Kaiser Permanente is proposing a 19.9 percent rate hike, together affecting nearly 33,000 residents covered by the federal Affordable Care Act. Star-Advertiser.

Former Hawaii journalist Malia Zimmerman is at the center of a growing firestorm over a Fox News story about Democratic leaks and an unsolved killing. Hawaii News Now.

A lawsuit filed Tuesday lays out an explosive tale of Trump allies, the White House, Fox News and a former Hawaii journalist conspiring to push a false story about Democratic leaks and an unsolved killing to distract attention from the Russia investigation that has been swirling around the president. Associated Press.

New Hawaii Schools Chief’s First Priority: Listening. Christina Kishimoto plans on visiting all the islands in her first six months to talk with educators and students. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Department of Education welcomed its new leader Tuesday, less than one week before the start of the new school year on Aug. 7. KHON2.

Christina Kishimoto began her new job Tuesday as superintendent of Hawaii public schools, promising state education leaders she will visit schools throughout the state in the coming months and work to fill vacant positions in her executive staff. Tribune-Herald.

The state said Tuesday it has installed air conditioning units in 796 classrooms in the islands, and hopes to reach 1,000 by the end of the month. Hawaii News Now.

Former Navy Officer Isn’t Rolling Over In The Fat Leonard Bribery Case. The widening criminal investigation into Malaysian defense contractor Leonard “Fat Leonard” Francis has already ensnared dozens of top naval officers, many from the Hawaii-based Seventh Fleet. Civil Beat.

Members of the United Public Workers union are voting this week on a tentative agreement for a new four-year contract that includes raises and bonuses for union members. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii personnel assisting in search for missing sailor in South China Sea. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Plans for an expansion of Hawaiian Memorial Park Cemetery won a key approval from a Honolulu City Council committee Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Kicked out of parks and off sidewalks, some 'innovative' homeless take to the water. Hawaii News Now.

The state Department of Public Safety has announced that eight inmates at a Hawaii correctional center have mumps. Associated Press.

Next spring, students at the University of Hawaii’s William S. Richardson School of Law will have a state-of-the-art building to advise their own clients. Civil Beat.

On Wednesday, Servco Pacific Inc. Chairman and CEO Mark Fukunaga and Hawaii Gov. David Ige will be among the officials scheduled to break ground on the company's hydrogen station, the first such station to be built on Oahu. Pacific Business News.

Damage from the July 14 high-rise fire at the Marco Polo condominium project has been estimated to exceed $100 million in one of the most destructive fires in Honolulu’s recent history, a Honolulu Fire Department spokesman said Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Damage from the seven-alarm fire that killed three people and injured five at the Marco Polo Apartments high-rise in Honolulu last month exceeded an estimated $100 million, one of the most destructive fires in modern history in Hawaii, officials said. Pacific Business News.

The Marco Polo high-rise fire that killed three people July 14 and caused at least $100 million in damage was not intentionally set, but investigators continue to search for the cause, the Honolulu Fire Department said Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Fire Department has released new details as it continues to investigate a 7-alarm fire that killed three people in the Marco Polo high-rise on July 14. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

A study of locations for one or more shooting ranges was advanced Tuesday by a County Council panel that voted unanimously to endorse the concept and support a working group to create a report. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii Electric Light Company held a public meetings Monday night on its plans to upgrade the Big Island power grid. Big Island Video News.

First homeless sweep of Old Airport Park cleanup begins. West Hawaii Today.

Mayor Harry Kim has made it a priority to clean up a West Hawaii Park where many homeless have been living illegally. Hawaii Public Radio.

The state has issued a gag order in a case involving the death of a 3-year-old Hawaii island boy in foster care. KHON2.

The sale of Mauna Lani Bay Hotel &Bungalows and other assets closed Tuesday, with DiamondHead Land officially taking ownership of the properties. West Hawaii Today.

The new owners of the Mauna Lani hotel and golf courses on Hawaii island rehired all employees when the deal closed Tuesday and said they plan to invest between $70 million and $90 million upgrading the resort. Star-Advertiser.

A joint venture between an affiliate of California-based real estate company ProspectHill Group and longtime Hawaii hotel executive Pat Fitzgerald has closed on its acquisition of the Mauna Lani Bay Hotel & Bungalows on Hawaii’s Big Island from a subsidiary of Japan-based Tokyu Corp. Pacific Business News.

Brightly colored and uniquely designed license plates featuring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Haleakala National Park hit the Big Island on Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

School bus riders at Lahainaluna High, Baldwin High and Iao Intermediate schools will be riding the Maui Bus instead of their regular yellow buses when school starts next week due to a “crisis” shortage of bus drivers for a new transportation provider, the state Department of Education said. Maui News.

As a new school bus vendor on Maui struggles to find credentialed drivers before the school year begins Monday, the Department of Education says it will halt bus routes for nearly 400 students and issue bus passes for use on the island’s public transportation. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii State Department of Education today announced route modifications to school bus service for students at Maui High, Lahainaluna High, Baldwin High and ʻĪao Intermediate. Maui Now.

The Hawaii Department of Education is taking drastic action due to a shortage of school bus drivers on Maui. KHON2.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources opened up the gates across Iao Valley Road to allow participants in the Iao Valley 10K to run to the Iao Valley State Monument, which has been closed since massive floods in September. Maui News.

The Maui Department of Fire and Public Safety welcomed New Deputy Fire Chief, Lionel Montalvo to the post during a swearing-in and badge pinning ceremony on Friday. Maui Now.

Kauai

While it’s certain that the upcoming school year for public schools on Kauai begins next week, what’s still up in the air is how each student who rides a school bus will get to class on time. Garden Island.

Work on restoration of the Ae Kamali‘i Preschool started as the mercury teased the 90-degree mark Monday at the facility on Kress Street adjacent to Lihue Christian Church. Garden Island.

Two meetings are slated next week on a project designed for safe access to the Hanalei National Wildlife Refuge. Garden Island.

Wailua condo association wants to clean heiau. Condo association looks to clean up heiau blanketed by weeds, grass, trees. Garden Island.

Visitor arrivals and spending increase, Honolulu mayor signs pedestrian crosswalk cellphone ban, bones unearthed at Kona park, Kauai man claiming kuleana land cleared of trespassing, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki beach beauties © 2017 All Hawaii News

Visitor arrivals and spending grew for the 13th straight month in June, setting new monthly and midyear records and keeping tourism on track for a blistering full-year finish. Star-Advertiser.

Visitor spending increased 8.7 percent to $8.4 billion during the first half of 2017, while arrivals increased 4.3 percent to 4.6 million, compared to the same period last year, according to preliminary statistics released Thursday by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Pacific Business News.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority says spending by visitors surged nearly 9 percent during the first half of the year compared to last year. Associated Press.

Visitors in the first half of 2017 spent a total of $8.4 billion in the Hawaiian Islands, an increase of 8.7% compared to the first half of 2016, according to preliminary statistics released today by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Maui Now.

A report conducted by the Outdoor Industry Association shows that the outdoor recreation economy in Hawaii directly contributes 68,000 jobs, annually generates $7.8 billion in consumer spending, as well as $604 million in state and local tax revenue. Pacific Business News.

Save Beaches Or Property? Climate Change Will Force Tough Choices. A coastal hazard expert briefs Hawaii officials and others about the need to adapt to rising sea levels and warmer temperatures. Civil Beat.

An infusion of more than $1 million in federal money has been promised to support research on marine species in the Pacific Ocean. Garden Island.

The U.S. Pacific Fleet commander said Thursday he would launch a nuclear strike against China next week if President Donald Trump ordered it, and warned against the military ever shifting its allegiance from its commander in chief. Associated Press.

The mental health of alleged terrorist sympathizer Ikaika Kang, a U.S. army sergeant from Waimanalo, is under scrutiny at a time when the deep psychological wounds of war are getting more attention across the country. Civil Beat.

Transgender Army vet deplores president’s messages. Star-Advertiser.

Public comments are sought on the State Environmental Council’s preliminary draft of revised administrative rules for the preparation of environmental impact statements. Maui News.

More than 20 years have passed since the first charter school was authorized here in Hawai’i. Since then, public charter schools have fueled educational innovation to offer students and parents school choice. Next month, two more charter schools will open their doors. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Public Radio’s Board of Directors capped their first meeting of the fiscal year on July 24 by approving a 2017-2018 budget showing revenue of $5.49 million. Garden Island.

The latest forecast for Tropical Storm Irwin and Hurricane Hilary has them staying far to our east, and eventually crossing paths and becoming one storm. It's something called the Fujiwhara effect. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Pedestrians on Oahu can still talk on their cellphone while crossing the street, but texting or using other electronic devices in a crosswalk is no longer allowed under a bill signed into law Thursday by Mayor Kirk Caldwell. Star-Advertiser.

It's official. Beginning in October, looking at mobile devices while crossing the street will be illegal. Hawaii News Now.

If you have a habit of using your phone while crossing the street, you might want to rethink soon. KITV.

Make sure you put your phones away when crossing the street. KHON2.

The Honolulu rail board is in final talks to hire as its new top executive a rail technology firm manager who once battled the city over its most expensive rail contract, according to multiple sources familiar with the situation. Star-Advertiser.

Contractor bails on multiple projects, costing city, state millions. Hawaii News Now.

Solar energy projects with the combined capability of powering more than 17,900 homes have been approved to connect to Hawaiian Electric Co.’s grid. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric Co. has gotten the green light from the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission for its application to purchase energy generated by three solar farms being built by Houston-based NRG Energy Inc. Pacific Business News.

Efforts to bring the Miss Universe pageant to Honolulu this year — the 20th anniversary of when Hawaii’s Brook Lee was crowned — ended this week after pageant officials determined that the Neal S. Blaisdell Arena did not meet the event’s structural requirements. Star-Advertiser.

New details emerge as fire officials review response to deadly Marco Polo high-rise fire. KHON2.

The Honolulu Fire Department has revised the alarm status of the fatal fire at Marco Polo condominium to a 7-alarm fire from a 5-alarm fire after further review. Star-Advertiser.

The estate of prominent lawyer Gary O. Galiher is suing to block a new entity comprising the late attorney’s employees and associates from taking the records and files of the Galiher law corporation. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Bones found in Kailua-Kona park. A cultural impact assessment for the Kailua Park master plan from 2010 indicated that ancient, undiscovered burial sites likely still existed in multiple areas within Old Kona Airport Park. West Hawaii Today.

A 3rd Circuit Court judge Thursday dismissed a lawsuit filed by a Kapaau man fighting his housing project’s ban on smoking, which includes smoking medical marijuana. West Hawaii Today.

Judge Riki May Amano's recommendation TMT organizers proceed with obtaining construction permits from the state land board has rattled those in opposition of the controversial project atop Mauna Kea. KITV.

Ownership of the Puna Kai shopping center property in Pahoa is expected to change hands this week, and the new owner says construction will begin within days. Tribune-Herald.

Parents who want to homeschool their kids don't encounter any resistance — not even if they're under investigation by state Child Protective Services, a Hawaii News Now investigation has found. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

Dealing with feral animals at small-boat harbors and amendments to dive-flag rules were among the subjects testifiers addressed during a Wednesday evening hearing on proposed rule changes to boating laws and rules at small-boat harbors. Maui News.

Since the beginning of the year, DLNR Division of State Parks maintenance staff on Kaua‘i have gathered, bagged, and airlifted 10.92 tons of rubbish from the Kalalau section of the Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park. Maui Now.

A “Talk Story with Gov. David Ige” event, hosted by the Hawaii State Teachers Association, will be held from 2:30 to 4 p.m. Saturday in the Baldwin High School Multipurpose Room in Wailuku. Maui News.

Kauai

A man who claimed kuleana land on the North Shore is no longer facing a criminal trespass charge. Garden Island.

Questions about the Lehua Island rat eradication and restoration project were rampant at a Tuesday meeting in Waimea. Garden Island.

Hawaii's worker shortage, state at odds over voter info, Schofield soldier in court, 'Peter Boy' father gets 20 years, Kauai seeks to save native birds, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki restaurant worker © 2017 All Hawaii News

There Just Aren’t Enough Workers To Go Around In Hawaii. The state labor director calls it a “perfect storm” as restaurateurs and retailers struggle to recruit — and keep — employees. Civil Beat.

A federal judge has cleared the way for President Donald Trump’s commission on election fraud to resume collecting detailed voter roll information from the states, but at least one election official in Hawaii says he won’t comply with the federal request. Star-Advertiser.

A U.S. Army soldier based in Hawaii pleaded not guilty Monday to charges of attempting to support the Islamic State group. Associated Press.

A Schofield soldier accused of trying to provide support for ISIS has pleaded not guilty. KHON2.

A federal judge Monday scheduled a trial date in September for Wheeler Army Airfield soldier Ikaika Erik Kang on four counts of trying to provide support to the Islamic State, also known as ISIS. Star-Advertiser.

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A trustee with the Office of Hawaiian Affairs has accepted nearly $16,000 from a Native Hawaiian heiress to pay for legal fees in her battle against fellow trustees. Civil Beat.

Native Hawaiian waterman Malama Chun of Maui filed a petition with the state Board of Land and Natural Resources on April 12, 2017, challenging the DLNR Division of Aquatic Resources’ practice of issuing licenses to foreign fisherman who have been refused permission to land in Hawai’i by US authorities and have been ordered deported. Maui Now.

Royal Hawaiian Macadamia Nut Inc. said Monday that the company’s petition to claim that consuming macadamia nuts can help reduce the risk of coronary heart disease under certain circumstances has officially been approved by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration. Pacific Business News.

Two of the three storms in the Eastern Pacific strengthened overnight. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines said Monday it will add three new daily routes between the neighbor islands and the U.S. West Coast in early 2018. Star-Advertiser.

A robust economy continued to boost Bank of Hawaii’s double-digit loan growth in the second quarter, with earnings per share exceeding analysts’ expectations. Star-Advertiser.

Wailuku artist Kirk Kurokawa’s “most significant” project in his artistic collection — the official painting of former Gov. Neil Abercrombie — was unveiled last week on Oahu. Maui News.

Oahu

Mayor Kirk Caldwell on Monday signed into law a bill that bans nearly all plastic bags distributed at Oahu retail checkout counters starting Jan. 1, 2020. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council is considering a bill that would expand the city’s sit-lie ban another few blocks in the Ala Moana-Sheridan area. Civil Beat.

Honolulu’s Potholes Cost Drivers — And Taxpayers — Millions. A 2016 study found the city had the 11th-worst roads among large urban areas, and residents pay more than the national average for related car repairs. Civil Beat.

The police presence in Oahu’s main tourist hub could be getting a boost thanks to a gift that puts more boots on the ground. A Waikiki business group wants to give $85,000 to the city. KHON2.

The July Fourth Waikiki “floatilla” attracted a crowd of about 9,000 partyers, led to at least 30 alcohol-related injuries and cost the city and state more than $12,000 to police, so it’s little wonder officials want to halt alcohol use at future floatillas. Star-Advertiser.

The executive director of the Hawaii Community Development Authority said since April the number of illegal campers in Kakaako parks under HCDA supervision has nearly doubled. Hawaii News Now.

Bill to ban electronic devices for crossing pedestrians represents latest push to make roads safer. Bill 6, which is awaiting the mayor’s approval, would make it illegal to look at a phone, tablet, gaming device, or anything electronic while crossing the street. KHON2.

The Queen Kapiolani Hotel, a 312-room property across the street from Kapiolani Park, is starting a $30 million makeover. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Peter Kema Sr. was sentenced Monday in Hilo Circuit Court to 20 years in prison for the 1997 death of his 6-year-old son, Peter Kema Jr. Tribune-Herald.

Peter Kema Sr. was sentenced to 20 years in prison this morning for the manslaughter of his 6-year-old son, Peter Boy, whose fate remained a mystery for two decades until his parents recently acknowledge their roles in his death. Star-Advertiser.

20 years. That is how long it's been since Peter Boy Kema's death. It's also the sentence handed down to his father on Monday, for killing the Big Island boy. KITV.

Hawaii County Prosecutor Mitch Roth said he’s using lessons learned from the Peter Kema Jr. case to propose changes in the laws governing child abuse and home schooling and to advocate for a longer statute of limitations period for manslaughter. Tribune-Herald.

A lawyer for the estate of the late Peter Kema Jr. and the siblings of “Peter Boy” sent a cease-and-desist letter to a senior vice president of Amazon.com, attempting to persuade the online merchandising giant to pull the Kindle book series “Peter Boy: Hawaii’s Most Notorious Case of Child Abuse and Murder” from its website. Tribune-Herald.

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Major changes are coming to boating and harbor rules, but those most affected say the state hasn’t consulted with them, or even made the rules readily available prior to public hearings scheduled for Thursday and Friday. West Hawaii Today.

PA system installed at popular Kailua-Kona beach park. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaiian Airlines will add a new year-round flight from Los Angeles to Kona starting early next year. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Ulupalakua Ranch on Maui is best known for its winery and cowboy culture, but not its Hawaiian dry forest. A 20-year forest restoration project on Ranch lands is changing that. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui Electric Co. is seeking approval by the state Public Utilities Commission to refurbish one of its 21-megawatt petroleum-fired turbines at the Maalaea Power Plant, which will cost an estimated $2.6 million. Maui News.

Three months after being forced to vacate its longtime dance studio in the Old Kula Community Center, the Alexander Academy of Performing Arts has found a new home in Haliimaile that will allow it to add classes, teachers and more studio space in the coming months. Maui News.

Maui’s electronic recycling program should reopen August 5th after being closed for several weeks. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaiian Airlines will add a new non-stop daily route between Portland and Maui, starting Jan. 18. Maui Now.

Move over, Kona. Maui coffee is getting much stronger. Maui News.

Kauai

Noisemakers and motion sensors are just a few of the new tools scientists and conservationists are combining with traps to reduce predators in remote endangered seabird nesting areas. Garden Island.

There are nearly 400 predator traps scattered throughout Kauai's Hono O Na Pali Natural Area Reserve. Hawaii News Now.

The county Housing Agency will be hosting a community meeting Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Koloa Neighborhood Center to discuss plans for a new workforce housing development. Garden Island.

Boardwalk from Kawaihau Road to highway is open. Garden Island.

Niihau

State officials say they're moving ahead with a second attempt at eradicating rats from a tiny island near Niihau, but critics of the plan say they're worried about the potential risks to the marine environment. Hawaii News Now.