Hawaii Supreme Court requires anti-TMT nonprofit bank records turned over to Attorney General, 2 Hawaiian Airlines flights turned back when passengers act out, Ironman takes a year in Utah, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaiian oli on Mauna Kea ©2021 All Hawaii News

Supreme Court partially approves subpoena into bank records of group opposing TMT on Mauna Kea. The Hawaii Supreme Court has ruled in favor of a subpoena to access the bank records of a nonprofit organization that has opposed the construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope, but the ruling also further limits the scope of the subpoena. Star-Advertiser.

2 separate Hawaiian Airlines flights return to Honolulu Airport after two unruly passenger cases. One incident involved an alleged unprovoked attack against a flight attendant on an interisland flight bound for Hilo, while the other involved a passenger who allegedly defied the federal face mask mandate on a flight to Seattle. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now. Maui Now.  Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Hawaii officials seek workers statewide for Safe Travels program. The state is seeking to hire 100 people to help verify Safe Travels program documents at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport on Oahu, the Hilo and Kona International Airports on Hawaii Island, Kahului Airport on Maui, and Lihue Airport on Kauai. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Video News. Garden Island.

Hawaii’s economy is expected to resume recovery in November. According to a new report by University of Hawaii economists, the Nov. 25 Thanksgiving holiday is likely to be around when the main driver of the local economy — tourism — starts to make a significant recovery after a big tumble tied to the towering delta wave of COVID-19. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s High Cost Of Living Just Keeps Getting Higher. Rising gasoline and housing prices are driving up living costs for isle families, offsetting wage gains that had appeared to offer a bright spot in a tepid economic recovery. Civil Beat.

Vacation rental supply only two-thirds back to pre-COVID days. Vacation rental occupancy across the state was down about a third in August, while hotel supply was almost at the pre­-pandemic level that it was two years ago. Star-Advertiser.

Hospital rewrites the rules so loved ones can say goodbye at COVID patients’ bedsides. Partnership between Adventist Heath Castle and Bristol Hospice is allowing exceptions so family members can be at the bedside during those final moments. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii records 12 new coronavirus-related deaths, 445 additional infections. new confirmed and probable infection count by island includes 267 new cases on Oahu, 52 on Maui, 81 on Hawaii Island, 30 on Kauai, seven on Molokai and eight Hawaii residents diagnosed outside the state. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

US House Passes Bill With Enhanced Standards For Red Hill Fuel Tanks. The bill passed ahead of a highly anticipated decision by the Hawaii health director on the World War II-era tanks, which have leaked into the area’s groundwater. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Police Commission Seeks Public’s Help In Search For New Police Chief. The Honolulu Police Commission is urging the community to send in presentations and testimony regarding the search for the new police chief. Civil  Beat.

With city vaccine exemptions pending approval, councilwoman proposes alternatives to firing. Andria Tupola has introduced a resolution calling for alternatives to firing and is asking city officials to be clearer about the exemption policies. Hawaii News Now.

Iwilei homeless shelter scrambled to identify and isolate COVID-19 cases. The outbreak affected twenty-six residents and a dozen of its 28 staff, forcing the remaining workers to jump into action. KITV4.

Police Officer Falsely Accused Former State Senator Of Being At Massage Parlor Raid. Officer Chester Desiderio faced an undisclosed administrative action for Facebook comments he made about former Sen. Will Espero. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Ironman World Championship moving to Utah, officials plan Kona return in October 2022. The Ironman World Championship will be held outside of Hawaii for the first time in its 40-plus history, race officials announced Thursday. West Hawaii Today. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

Collaboration allows students to use Hele-On pass to get to school. Hawaii County has formed a partnership with the state Department of Education to help alleviate student transportation issues on Hawaii Island caused by a shortage of school bus drivers and routes. Star-Advertiser.

Water reservior project moves foward: Final EA released for 10 million gallon tank in Kohala. The Hawaii County Department of Water Supply proposes to build the 36-foot-tall prestressed concrete water tank on property currently owned by Parker Ranch. West Hawaii Today.

Big Island COVID patient's family wants court to force hospital to give him Ivermectin. The fight to give Ivermectin to coronavirus patients now goes before a state judge. A Big Island man is is "on death's doorstep," according to his family. Now they hope to force the hospital to give him an experimental drug. KITV4.

Maui

Big changes to Wailuku town development rules proposed. Saying they’re up against a wall, Maui County Council members on Wednesday recommended approval for sweeping changes to nearly 70 acres of downtown Wailuku in a step to evade long-term litigation. Maui News.

6th Hawaiian monk seal found dead on Molokai. Wildlife officials reported the death of another Hawaiian monk seal on Molokai, the isle’s sixth so far this year, which they said is unprecedented. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now.

'It's very devastating': activists decry removal of Maui's largest homeless encampment. The sweep made way for the Department of Transportation to restore a nearby wildlife sanctuary. KITV4.

Kauai

Kaua‘i to move away from tier system. The County of Kaua‘i will be moving away from its six-tiered system, Mayor Derek Kawakami announced Thursday, but will continue to enforce strict COVID-19 safety measures. Garden Island.

Project seeks to boost local egg production. Farmers have an opportunity to add fresh eggs to their list of wares next year, with tools provided by nonprofit Malama Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

Vicky Cayetano weighs gubernatorial bid, Hawaii prices climb, Ige speaks out against harassing monk seals, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Vicky Cayetano PC:Hawaii News Now from video

Former Hawaii first lady Vicky Cayetano weighs bid for governor. Former Hawaii first lady Vicky Cayetano is considering a run for governor next year to bring a “fresh perspective” to the position.
 Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. Civil Beat.

Hawaii residents feel the burden of rising prices as pent-up demand drives up costs. The latest local data from May showed inflation in Honolulu at a rate of 3.8%. Hawaii News Now.

Other States Have Tough Police Standards Boards. Hawaii’s Is Still Struggling. Almost every other state has professional staff and funding dedicated to overseeing law enforcement. Hawaii has neither. Civil Beat.

Gov. David Ige warns that visitors who touch Hawaiian monk seals ‘will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law’. The widely circulated videos of the two visitors touching monk seals have angered many Hawaii residents. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is investigating the recent incidents. Star-Advertiser. KHON2. KITV4.

Several state bills protecting resources signed into law. The 2021 legislative session has ended with nearly a dozen new laws protecting natural and cultural resources in the state. Tribune-Herald.

The Rev. Bob Nakata, a former Hawaii legislator, was advocate for the needy. The Rev. Bob Nakata, who served single terms in both the state House and Senate and helped lead the fight for affordable housing on Oahu, died Monday at the age of 80 after suffering a stroke two years ago.  Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

Hawaii astronomers ‘frustrated’ by wild speculation about ‘Oumuamua. There is still much that scientists do not know about ‘Oumuamua, the interstellar object that was discovered passing through our solar system in 2017. But most agree that it probably isn’t the work of aliens. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii sees 48 new coronavirus cases, bringing statewide total to 38,653. Today’s new confirmed and probable infection count by island includes 25 new cases on Oahu, seven on Maui, six on Hawaii Island, two on Kauai and eight Hawaii residents diagnosed outside the state. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu's pedestrian plan will be finalized soon. Have an idea of how to make your walk safer? Let the City and County of Honolulu know, because it will soon finalize its "pedestrian plan". KITV4.

Navy request for 5-year permit to operate underground Red Hill fuel tanks raises red flags. State environmental regulators said this week that the Navy has not proved it can safely operate its underground Red Hill fuel tanks, which in recent years have been the subject of mounting concerns over leaks and groundwater contamination. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Fire truck goes up in flames. A fire truck from Pohakuloa Training Area caught fire Wednesday morning on Saddle Road. West Hawaii Today. Big Island Now.

Brush Fire Burns In North Hawaiʻi, Closes Kawaihae Road. A brush fire lit up the sky in North Hawaiʻi late Tuesday night into early Wednesday morning, and forced the closure of Kawaihae Road. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

Removal of Invasive Vegetation to Temporarily Close Historic Park. The park is slated to be closed on Monday, July 26. Big Island Now.

Maui

Proposal looks to change council districts, election of members. Commission to begin vetting changes to County Charter. Proposals that would redraw Maui County Council districts and alter the way members are elected are among dozens of potential changes to local government that the Maui Charter Commission will vet over the next six months. Maui News.

New Long-Term Rental Exemption and Classification in Effect Jan. 1. Effective Jan. 1, 2022, real property occupied as a long-term rental, with a signed contract to lease for 12 consecutive months or longer to the same tenant, may qualify an owner for an exemption of up to $200,000. Maui Now.

Councilmember Says Upcountry Maui Water Restrictions Not Related to Resorts. Drought conditions on Maui have led county officials to declare a water conservation alert for Upcountry residents, sparking some controversy among those who thought nearby hotels should be asked to conserve water as well. Hawaii Public Radio.

FONSI Filed for Proposed Hale Pilina Family Affordable Rental Housing Project in Kahului. A Final Environmental Assessment with a Finding of No Significant Impact determination was made for the Hale Pilina Family Affordable Rental Housing Project proposed for development in Kahului, Maui. Maui Now.

Lanai May Finally Get An Affordable Housing Project. It Might Even Get 2. Two affordable housing projects proposed by Maui County and Pulama Lanai could boost the island’s low-income housing stock for the first time in nearly three decades. Civil Beat.

Kauai

Wailua wastewater effluent exceedance in effect. The county Department of Public Works Wastewater Management Division advised that a wastewater effluent exceedance occurred Tuesday at the Wailua Wastewater Treatment Plant. The measured enterococci level has exceeded the permitted limit. Garden Island.

Vehicle-disposal-fee waiver in effect until Aug. 2. Residents may continue to waive junk-car-disposal fees if proper paperwork is presented to the Department of Finance Motor Vehicle Registration division. Garden Island.

Ige to extend COVID precautions through summer, real estate booms, tax collections soar, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. David Ige

Gov. David Ige to maintain COVID guidelines as isle businesses grow frustrated. Gov. David Ige is holding strong to his target of fully vaccinating 70% of Hawaii residents before dropping the majority of the state’s COVID-related safety restrictions, including indoor mask mandates. Ige plans to extend his emergency proclamation suspending various laws and mandating safety protocols, which is set to expire Aug. 6. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald. Hawaii News Now.

State Tax Collections Soared Back To Pre-Pandemic Levels In The Past Year. The stunning rebound in general treasury tax revenue was driven by increased state income tax collections. The unexpected bump in tax collections last year means the Ige administration is suddenly holding about $740 million in un-budgeted cash, and lawmakers said Monday they will be watching closely to see what the administration has in mind for that money. Civil Beat.

DOE to identify schools with COVID-19 cases, but lack of testing could skew data. A new law requires the DOE release details of COVID-19 cases reported on its campuses, including the name of the school, the date the positive test result was reported, and the date the COVID-positive individual was last on campus. KITV4.

TSA prepares for unruly travelers as complaints of disruptive passengers increase. As rising COVID-19 vaccinations bring more visitors to Hawaii, the Transportation Security Administration restarted flight crew self-defense training this month after a 62% increase in unruly and aggressive passenger complaints during the first six months of 2021, including physical attacks and verbal confrontations over enhanced safety measures brought on by the pandemic. Star-Advertiser.

Hospitalizations, ICU beds, case numbers, and positivity rate increase statewide as Delta variant spreads. The state health department has detected 53 new Delta cases statewide in two weeks. KHON2.

Hawaii reports 63 new COVID cases; no additional fatalities. Of the new infections, 28 were on Oahu, 15 on Hawaii Island, seven on Kauai, and six on Maui. There were also seven residents diagnosed out-of-state. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Real estate bidding wars driving up home prices. The median price of a single family home on Oahu is just shy of a $1 million, but realtors said the bidding war is going strong. It is not expected to ease any time soon. KHON2.

Miske Case Rocks Stagehand Union After Executive Board Member’s Guilty Plea. The ripple effects from the federal criminal prosecution of former Honolulu business owner Michael Miske Jr. are now rocking Local 665 of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees after a member of its executive board admitted he took part in drug trafficking, armed robberies and at least one murder-for-hire scheme as a member of a racketeering organization that Miske controlled and directed. Civil Beat.

Honolulu police chief candidates’ names not released. The names of the 24 individuals who applied to serve as Honolulu’s 12th police chief will remain confidential after the Honolulu Police Commission denied a Honolulu Star-Advertiser public-records request for the applicants’ names, calling the disclosure a violation of privacy that would prejudice the selection process. Star-Advertiser.

Slowing pace of vaccinations prompts state, UH to consider capacity limits for UH football games. While the University of Hawaii is planning for a packed house in the stands for its first football game at the newly renovated Clarence T.C. Ching Athletic Complex, a slowing pace of vaccinations and a rise in Delta variant cases could mean the season opens to a smaller group. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Home sales soar on isle. Big Island homes are selling almost as soon as they hit the market as the real estate industry rebounds from the COVID-19 pandemic. Tribune-Herald.

Mahukona preservation advances. A plan to preserve 644 acres of Mahukona land of historical and cultural significance has taken a big step forward with the County Council’s unanimous approval of a resolution authorizing sale negotiations. West Hawaii Today.

ʻAlalā Exhibit In Hilo Is Only One In The World. The endangered Hawaiian crow now has a home at the Panaʻewa Rainforest Zoo. The exhibit opens to the public next week. Big Island Video News. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now.

Maui

Maui Median Home Price in June Was More Than $1.1M. The highest median price for a single-family home in Hawai‘i last month was in Maui County at more than $1.1 million. Kaua‘i's median was $1.1 million, O‘ahu's was $978,000 and the Big Island's was $465,000, according to data from Hawai‘i Information Service and Honolulu Board of Realtors. Associated Press. Maui News.

Maui High Performance Computing Center Names New Executive Director. The center is part of the Applied Research Laboratory at UH and supports the US Air Force’s Maui High Performance Computing Center, one of five Department of Defense Supercomputing Resource Centers nationwide. Maui Now.

Kauai

Protesters call for reopening of county offices, meetings. Around 11 a.m. Monday, about three dozen people arrived just outside the Lihu‘e Civic Center Mo‘ikeha Building rotunda, unable to get in due to a closed gate. Garden Island.

North Shore shuttle service seeks to curb congestion, crowding. The end of the road is just the beginning for nonprofit organizations Hui Maka‘ainana o Makana and The Hanalei Initiative, which took over management and operation of the North Shore Shuttle from Waipa to Ha‘ena State Park last Sunday. Garden Island.

Visiting couple regret touching monk seal after video goes viral on social media. A Louisiana couple has apologized and will pay a fine after a TikTok video shows a woman touching an endangered Hawaiian monk seal at a Kauai beach. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii COVID-19 cases top 1,000, Senate staffer, Summer Fun worker test positive, Kauai man arrested for refusing to wear mask, voter registration deadline nears, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Yellow tang on Hawaii reef, story below  ©2020 All Hawaii News

Hawaii Senate worker tests positive for coronavirus but legislative session to resume Monday. The Hawaii State Senate will reconvene on Monday, despite learning Saturday that a Senate staff member had tested positive for COVID-19. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s COVID-19 cases top 1,000 as lifting of some lockdowns leads to more spread. Coronavirus infections in Hawaii topped 1,000 on Sunday, the fourth day in a row with more than 20 new cases. Star-Advertiser.

Green urges caution, mask-wearing as COVID-19 case count hits 1,023. As Hawaii surpassed 1,000 COVID-19 cases Sunday, Lt. Gov. Josh Green said he is concerned about a potential surge in cases following this weekend’s holiday festivities. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii continues to see double-digit spikes in COVID-19 cases amid growing concern about community spread. Hawaii saw another double-digit spike in new COVID-19 cases Sunday, with 25 new infections — all on Oahu. The cases put the statewide total at 1,023. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Gov. David Ige warns that without more federal aid, public worker pay cuts or furloughs are inevitable. Gov. David Ige is planning to borrow money from the federal government to raise cash to navigate the budget crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic, but said layoffs, pay cuts or furloughs of Hawaii public employees are inevitable if Congress and President Donald Trump don’t come through with more help. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Among Airlines To Reach Loan Agreements with US. American Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines and three smaller carriers have reached agreement with the government for billions more in federal loans, a sign of the industry’s desperate fight to survive a downturn in air travel caused by the virus pandemic. Associated Press.

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Public will have a chance to weigh in on the major overhaul of election rules. A big overhaul of election rules is on the table, and the public has a chance to weigh in on Monday, July 6. KHON2.

Voter registration deadline approaching. New Hawaii voters have until Thursday, July 9, to register to vote in the 2020 Primary Election. West Hawaii Today.

State elections office to hold drive-thru voter registration events. Voter registration can be done online at the state Elections website, through a Voter Registration Applications at the county election office, or through one of several drive-thru registration events this week. Hawaii News Now.

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Kahele Can’t Campaign For Congress Right Now. Does It Matter? The Democrat has to sit it out while on active National Guard duty, but he doesn’t face much of a threat anyway — something that has dumbfounded political observers. Civil Beat.

State seeks to give health director power to declare public health emergencies. The state wants to give the state Health director the authority, with the governor’s blessing, to declare public health emergencies to battle the coronavirus and future pandemics. Hawaii News Now.

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Federal judge rules Hawaii’s quarantine is reasonable during coronavirus pandemic. A U.S. judge will not stop Hawaii from enforcing a quarantine on arriving travelers, saying in a ruling that the emergency mandate is reasonable during the public health crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic. A group of Hawaii, California and Nevada residents tried to stop the quarantine by filing a lawsuit alleging it is unfair and unnecessary. It violates the fundamental right to travel freely, they argued. Associated Press.

Full order from federal court upholding Hawaii's quarantine policy found here.

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Hemp production bill advances, but fate uncertain. A bill that would fully legalize hemp production throughout Hawaii is only a few steps away from becoming law, although many are unhappy with its final form. Tribune-Herald.

Ways and Means passes measure banning flavored tobacco products. The state Senate Ways and Means Committee on Thursday unanimously advanced a bill banning flavored tobacco products. West Hawaii Today.

Proposed solar farms could power 200,000 Hawaii homes. About a dozen solar farm developers are preparing to soon hold community meetings about plans that could power around 200,000 Hawaii homes with photovoltaic panels covering more than 3,000 acres on three islands. Star-Advertiser.

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Breakthrough could boost yellow tang. Scientists in Hawai‘i have made breakthroughs in studies of the popular yellow tang aquarium fish that could lead to a shift to aquaculture for procurement instead of wild catching. Garden Island.

Roi, the misunderstood fish. Research reveals more about disliked, introduced species. Over the years, roi have been labeled as a culprit for the declining fish populations and reef health, but marine specialists say these fish may not be as bad as they seem. Maui News.

18 endangered monk seals born in main Hawaiian islands so far in 2020. A total of 18 monk seal pups have been born in the main Hawaiian islands so far this year, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Star-Advertiser.

Beach Cleanups Prove Popular And Purposeful During Pandemic. People want to help or just stretch their legs, and groups are organizing events with safety guidelines in mind. Civil Beat.

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Hawaii Updates: State Exceeds 1,000 COVID-19 Cases; Summer Fun Worker Tests Positive. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaiʻi COVID-19 Updates For Sunday, July 5: 25 New Cases. All of those new cases were reported on Oʻahu, bringing the cumulative total on that island to 744. Big Island Video News.

Number of COVID-19 cases in Hawaii is now over 1,000. Twenty-five new cases reported on Sunday, July 5, by the state Department of Health brings the statewide total to 1,023. KHON2.

Oahu

Waipahu Summer Fun employee tests positive for COVID-19. A city park employee who works at a Summer Fun site in Waipahu and had “minimal” contact with participants has tested positive for COVID-19, authorities said. Hawaii News Now.

City park staff member tests positive for COVID-19. The city has confirmed a staffer in the Department of Parks and Recreation has tested positive for COVID-19. KHON2.

Summer Fun employee tests positive for COVID-19. KITV4.

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‘Open Street Sundays’ in Waikiki extended through July. Kalakaua Avenue will continue to be closed to vehicle traffic on Sunday mornings, as the city has announced an extension of the ‘Open Street Sundays’ program. Hawaii News Now.

Envisioned vertical public school in Kakaako faces new delays. Three years after unveiling images of what Hawaii’s first vertical public school could look like, the pioneering project envisioned for Kakaako is in limbo. Star-Advertiser.

Kakaako condo tower construction upended by COVID-19. Production of a mainly midpriced Kakaako condominium tower has run into trouble because of COVID-19, but the developer believes several planned changes that include pricing more units for less will overcome setbacks. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Ola Brew expands to mainland: Company’s hard seltzers now available across Southern California. At a time when many businesses are seeing markets shrink, Kailua-Kona’s Ola Brew Co. has managed to extend its reach to the mainland. West Hawaii Today.

Puna retreat’s grant request delayed as pandemic stifles state funding. A battle between a group of Puna residents and a Puna retreat is delayed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Half of jobless filers had not received checks. More than half of Maui County residents who applied for unemployment benefits as of mid-May had not received payments and nearly half of Maui County households reported a decline in income since the COVID-19 pandemic took hold, a Bank of Hawaii Foundation survey released Thursday showed. Maui News.

Kahului Airport’s Runway 2-20 to Temporarily Close for Taxiway Construction. The Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation advises Maui residents of the closure of Runway 2-20 for a taxiway reconstruction project scheduled to take place at the Kahului Airport on weekends from July 4 to Aug. 1. Maui Now.

More park space and fewer gentleman’s estates. Draft community plan covering next 20 years finished. Designating 500 more acres in West Maui for parks and open space and restricting gentleman’s estates and fast-track affordable housing projects in certain West Maui areas, are some of the highlights of the updated draft of the West Maui Community Plan. Maui News.

Kauai

Man arrested after refusing to wear face mask. Kaua‘i police arrested Ryan Buley, 34, of Kapa‘a, Saturday afternoon, for terroristic threatening and harassment following his refusal to wear a mask in a North Shore store. Garden Island.

Kauai man arrested for harassment after refusing to wear a mask. Kaua‘i police arrested Ryan Buley, 34, of Kapa‘a, Saturday afternoon for terroristic threatening and harassment following his refusal to wear a mask in a North Shore store. KITV4.

Kauai County, Airbnb Inc. agree to limit rentals. Kauai County has partnered with Airbnb Inc., the online travel platform, to help weed out illegal vacation rental properties on the Garden Isle. Star-Advertiser.

Cat disease killing endangered monk seals, Schatz slams coronavirus test kit delays, Ala Moana park plan approved, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Man feeds feral cats at Hilo bayfront park ©2020 All Hawaii News

Cats blamed for ‘debilitating’ disease striking Hawaiian monk seals. In just the first month this year, two Hawaiian monk seals have been killed or sickened by a disease that is released into the environment by cat feces. Star-Advertiser.

Endangered Hawaiian monk seal sickened by toxoplasmosis, which is spread in feces of cats. Officials from NOAA want the public to know that if cats were kept indoors, toxoplasmosis would not spread through the landscape and kill monk seals and other native species. KHON2.

Study: Marine Monuments Aren’t Hurting Hawaii’s Tuna Fishermen. The commercial longline industry made more money after the feds expanded the protected areas around Papahanaumokuakea and the Pacific Remote Islands. Civil Beat.

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Clean Energy Advocates, Auto Industry Disagree Over How To Promote Electric Vehicles. More than two dozen bills at the Hawaii Legislature aim to increase the use of electric vehicles, but auto dealers and green energy proponents are supporting different approaches. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii lawmakers again propose raising car rental tax. State lawmakers for the second straight year are proposing to increase the state’s daily car rental tax as a way to fund more highway construction projects that would hopefully reduce traffic congestion. Star-Advertiser.

Uber And Lyft Are Fine With Hawaii Regulating Them — Just Not Too Much. The ride-hailing companies take issue with parts of a House bill that gives the state Department of Transportation more power to investigate them. Civil Beat.

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Experts: Hawaii tourism likely to take a hit amid coronavirus fears. Airlines that serve the Asia-Pacific region are bracing for a possible 13% drop in passenger traffic, according to the International Air Transport Association. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii officials ponder new coronavirus’ economic impact. State officials, alarmed about the rapidly spreading new coronavirus, are grappling with how to prevent an outbreak in the islands as tourists from Japan and other countries continue to travel to Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Schatz: Repeated delays of coronavirus test kits for Hawaii ‘unacceptable’. The botched coronavirus test kits that were sent to Hawaii now have to be re-manufactured. U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz says he’s been told by CDC that the new test kits won’t be ready until mid-March. Hawaii News Now.

Number of People Being Monitored For Coronavirus In Hawaii Is Dropping. As of Thursday, the Hawaii Health Department had yet to identify any suspect coronavirus cases in Hawaii, but continues to investigate the Hawaii vacation of a Japanese couple who later fell ill. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Ala Moana park plan OK’d without playground or dog park. The Honolulu City Council this week gave Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s administration a permit for a host of improvements at Ala Moana Beach Park but made sure the list of projects doesn’t include an “inclusive” playground, dog park or changes to the parking on the mauka side of Ala Moana Drive. Star-Advertiser.

How Much Should It Cost To Ride Rail? Honolulu officials are seeking public input on setting rates. Civil Beat.

Public can weigh in on how much transit fares should cost. The Honolulu Rate Commission is asking the public to weigh in on how much they think transit fares should cost. KHON2.

Series of coastal engineering projects underway amid race to save Waikiki Beach. A series of coastal engineering projects aimed at saving Waikiki Beach is underway, and one of the projects that kicked off three months ago is performing well so far. Hawaii News Now.

Applicants sought for affordable rental complex for seniors in Kapolei. A random drawing for units at Hale Moena Kupuna will be held March 5. Hawaii News Now.

Lottery to open in March for Kapolei senior affordable rentals. A lottery is scheduled for March 5 for Hale Moena Kupuna, 153 senior affordable rentals in Hale Moena Kupuna, the first phase of Highridge Costa Cos. and Coastal Rim Development’s mixed-use project in Kapolei. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Mike Ruggles Running For Hawaii County Mayor. Medical cannabis advocate Mike Ruggles filed paperwork on Thursday in order to officially run for Hawaiʻi County mayor. Big Island Video News.

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Thurston Lava Tube set to reopen. After more than a year of closure, the Thurston Lava Tube in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is once again open for visitors today. Tribune-Herald.

Thurston Lava Tube reopens to the public. Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park’s Thurston Lava Tube will open to the public this morning for the first time since it was knocked out of action by the Kilauea eruption nearly two years ago. Star-Advertiser.

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Date for removal of two Maunakea telescopes pushed back. Two telescopes on Maunakea scheduled for decommissioning are expected to be removed from the summit by 2023. Tribune-Herald.

Telescope Take-Down Update Given To UH Regents. University officials say the decommissionings of the UH Hilo Hōkū Ke‘a and the Caltech Submillimeter Observatory on Maunakea are tentatively scheduled to be completed by 2023. Big Island Video News.

Operating rooms of the future: Kona hospital unveils $6M renovation project. Kona Community Hospital unveiled its newly remodeled state-of-the-art operating rooms Thursday morning. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Kanaha closed to remove illegal encampments. Maui County departments and Maui police removed illegal encampments at Kanaha Beach Park, which was closed from Tuesday to this afternoon. Maui News.

Application Period Opening for Hale Mahaolu Ewalu II Senior Housing in Pukalani. Hale Mahaolu will accept applications for Ewalu II, the second phase of its senior housing complex in Upcountry Maui, from Feb. 24 through 4 p.m. on March 6, 2020. Maui Now.

Maui man who traveled on Westerdam returns home. Health officials say coronavirus risk low; quarantine not needed. Maui News.

Mainland, Big Isle eyed for endangered bird move. In the wake of a highly-anticipated translocation project that saw all but one of its 14 birds die on Haleakala, experts are mulling whether to move critically endangered kiwikiu to the Mainland or to the Big Island to save them from extinction. Maui News.

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Mahi Pono Enters Majority Partnership with Maui Cattle Company. Mahi Pono today announced that it has become the majority partner of Maui Cattle Company, a kamaʻāina company. Maui Now.

Mahi Pono becomes majority partner of Maui Cattle Co., acquires slaughterhouse. Mahi Pono, the farming venture that bought 41,000 acres of former sugar cane land on Maui from Alexander & Baldwin, said Thursday that it is now the majority partner of Maui Cattle Co., a collaborative between five family owned ranches on the Valley Isle, and is also the new owner of Maui Cattle Co.’s slaughterhouse and USDA-certified processing facility. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

KIUC ballots are on their way. Ballots will be mailed out for Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative’s board of directors election within the next week. Garden Island.

Kauaʻi Council Advances Polysytrene Container Ban Proposal. Similar to other county bans, Bill 2775 would prohibit the sale and use of styrofoam containers in the county. Hawaii Public Radio.

Community safety meetings kick off. Tuesday was the first in a series of County of Kaua‘i’s safety meetings, “Keeping Your Community Safe,” at the state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands Anahola clubhouse. Garden Island.

Kahoolawe

State money still needed for Kahoolawe restoration. The Kahoolawe Island Reserve Commission is asking the state Legislature for financial support in its ongoing mission to restore an island that remains wounded from decades of abuse in the form of military bombing practice. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii airports among the worst, Health Department says stop vaping, Caldwell off to European climate summit, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Daniel K. Inouye Honolulu International Airport ©2019 All Hawaii News

Satisfaction study ranks Hawaii airports among the worst. Daniel K. Inouye International Airport nearly tops a list of this year’s worst airports for customer satisfaction, mainly because of construction, which tends to delay passengers and sour their travel experiences. Star-Advertiser.

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Hawaii Health Department Is Prepared To Ban E-Cigs If Needed. After the second confirmed case of a vaping-related illness in the islands, the state health department is urging the public to stop vaping. Civil Beat.

Second lung patient cited as officials call for halt to vaping in Hawaii. Everyone in Hawaii should stop vaping until more is known about how it is triggering serious lung illnesses, officials announced Monday as they began investigating a second possible case here. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Health Officials Advising All E-Cigarette Users To Stop Vaping. The Hawaii Department of Health is advising all e-cigarette users to immediately stop vaping until more is known about its health impacts. Hawaii Public Radio.

State urges anyone who vapes to stop immediately, but decides against a ban. The state Health Department has issued a broad new advisory urging anyone who vapes to stop immediately until more is known about why people across the country who use vaping devices are getting gravely sick and even dying. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Department of Health issues public health advisory urging everyone to stop vaping. KHON2.

Department of Health: ‘Stop vaping’. The state Department of Health issued what it called a “health advisory” Monday, urging everyone to stop vaping, no matter the substance or source, until current nationwide investigations are complete. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Issues Public Health Advisory Urging Everyone To Stop Vaping. The Department of Health wants everyone to stop vaping until current nationwide investigations into illness are complete. Big Island Video News.

State: Stop vaping. The Hawaii State Department of Health has issued a health advisory urging everyone to stop vaping, no matter the substance or source, until current nationwide investigations are complete. Garden Island.

Health Advisory Urges Public to Stop Vaping. The Department of Health today issued a health advisory urging everyone to stop vaping, no matter the substance or source, until current nationwide investigations are complete. Maui Now.

Lawmakers planning to crack down on underage vaping. In light of the latest vaping-related illnesses, lawmakers are hoping to crack down on underage vaping in the next legislative session by making it harder for them to purchase e-cigarette products. KHON2.

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FBI: Violent crimes in Hawaii fall in recent years despite rise in rapes. A new report from the Federal Bureau of Investigation shows a drop in violence in Hawaii recently. Hawaii News Now.

FBI: Property crimes and thefts on the rise in Hawaii. The latest data from the FBI shows property crimes and thefts are on the rise in Hawaii, especially on Oahu. KHON2.

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The state Public Safety Department’s top trainer appears to be off the hook — for now. The state Labor Board is dropping its request for Marte Martinez’s personnel file after fierce resistance from two other state agencies defending her: Public Safety and the state Attorney General’s Office. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Struggling To Find Out If Full-Face Snorkel Masks Are Dangerous. The counties have been unable to collect enough data on the type of mask worn in drowning incidents to draw any conclusions yet. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Coffee Farmers: State Policy Is Putting Crops At Risk. Growers want Hawaii to adopt a strict federal policy designed to protect Hawaii coffee from invasive species. Civil Beat.

DOE awarded $50M federal grant to boost literacy skills in kids. The state Education Department has been awarded a five-year, $50 million federal grant to boost literacy development at Hawaii public schools. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Land Use Commission again will convene to determine landfill’s fate. The city finally might win its long-running quest to win state approval to extend the life of Oahu’s only municipal landfill, but not if neighbors of the West Oahu facility have anything to do with it. Star-Advertiser.

Proposed Bill could force non-union workers to pay union dues. Bill 37 is up for a vote in Wednesday's City Council meeting. KITV.

Councilmember calls for delay of Kakaako parks transfer to city. Honolulu City Councilmember Kymberly Pine is asking the city administration to delay taking over Kakaako Waterfront Park and other nearby parcels in a handoff from the state slated for this fall. KHON2.

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Caldwell On Business Trip To Denmark, Germany And France. The Honolulu mayor is attending a climate conference, among other things. Civil Beat.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell left Oahu Monday morning for a two-week business trip to Europe. Caldwell will visit Denmark, Germany and France during his trip, with his first stop in Copenhagen to attend the C40 World Mayors Summit to provide an “island perspective.” Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Invited To Climate Summit With World's Largest Cities. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell is off to Denmark this week for a global gathering of big city mayors. Their goal is to tackle the major challenges of climate change. Hawaii Public Radio.

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Two young monk seals found dead on Oahu’s North Shore, NOAA says. On Monday, Hawaii Marine Animal Response officials revealed the deaths of two young Hawaiian monk seals in recent months. Hawaii News Now.

Waikiki doctor pleads guilty to filing nearly $1M in false medical claims. Dr. Sung Yang admitted to filing fraudulent claims amounting to nearly $1 million to government and private insurance agencies. Hawaii News Now.

'Golf ball' radar leaves Pearl Harbor after $24M upgrade. The towering Sea-Based X-Band Radar is back at sea after nearly four months in Pearl Harbor, during which $24 million in repairs and upgrades were made, the Missile Defense Agency said. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Why Dismantling of Mauna Kea Telescopes Raises Questions. The state’s commitment to remove five existing telescopes on Mauna Kea to build the Thirty-Meter Telescope remains part of the effort to resolve the protest on the mountain. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kupuna meet with Kim, reject proposal for TMT. A group of kupuna, or elders, from the movement opposed to the Thirty Meter Telescope being built on Mauna Kea met with Hawaii County Mayor Harry Kim on Monday to discuss Kim’s plan for resolving the dispute, which proposed that the TMT would be the last telescope built on the mountain. Star-Advertiser.

A bill banning the county’s use of toxic herbicides has resurfaced at the County Council. Bill 101, sponsored by Kona Councilwoman Rebecca Villegas, will be heard Oct. 15 by the council sitting as the Agriculture, Water, Energy and Environmental Management Committee. West Hawaii Today.

Court order calls for property owners to clear homeless camp. A Hilo judge signed an order last week that would compel two Big Island property owners to clear a homeless camp from downtown Hilo, but they can still appeal the court’s decision. Tribune-Herald.

Legacy Hilo files for bankruptcy; Nursing facility also being sold. Legacy Hilo Rehabilitation and Nursing Center filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and entered into a contract to sell the facility to Hilo SNF. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Comments on East Maui Water Lease, Draft EIS Due by Nov. 7. Alexander & Baldwin Inc. and its East Maui Irrigation Company, Limited subsidiary have filed a Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the proposed lease of water in the East Maui areas of Nāhiku, Keʻanae, Honomanū, and Huelo. Maui Now.

Opening of new Kihei High School could be delayed 3 to 4 years. Andrew Beerer’s two children were just starting elementary school when he joined the campaign to build a public high school for their fast-growing Kihei community. Star-Advertiser.

NOAA Needs Help Counting Hawaiian Monk Seals. NOAA Fisheries is calling on marine life enthusiasts to help survey Mauiʻs shores for endangered Hawaiian monk seals. Maui Now.

Maui Brush Fire Fully Contained But Public Asked To Avoid Burn Area. A fire that burned in the Maalaea Mauka area and forced evacuations and road closures has been 100% contained as of Monday morning, Maui Fire Department said. Hawaii Public Radio.


Kauai

Take a number. The County’s Drivers License Division is piloting a take-a-number system that started Monday to make acquiring licenses and permits for drivers of motor vehicles and customers seeking Hawaii Identification Cards more efficient and comfortable. Garden Island.

No answers in duck deaths. Near the end of September, Kilauea resident and avid golfer Barbara Trombley visited Wailua Golf Course to feed some domestic ducks dumped in the area. Garden Island.

Molokai

Original Hawaiian Homes Leases Near 99-Year Mark. The first leases awarded through the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act are approaching their 99-year limit. According to the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands in a press release sent out today, beneficiaries in Kalamaʻula and Hoʻolehua on the island of Molokaʻi can submit requests to extend their leases for an additional 100 years. Maui Now.

UN honors Molokai group for fishery conservation. Hui Malama o Mo‘omomi receives its prize in NYC. Maui News.

DLNR claims TMT protesters destroying endangered species, Augie T. mulls council bid, state cracks down on CBD, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Pu'u Huluhulu near Mauna Kea protest campsite ©2019 All Hawaii News

State warns of damage to endangered plants at TMT protest site. State conservation enforcement officers are investigating the destruction of four endangered Hawaiian vines in the Mauna Loa Forest Reserve near Puu Huluhulu, the site where protesters have been blocking Mauna Kea Access Road for the last two months. Star-Advertiser.

DLNR is concerned Mauna Kea demonstrations may be harming native plants. State wildlife officials are concerned about native plants and animals being harmed during the ongoing demonstrations at Mauna Kea. KHON2.

DLNR: Endangered vines destroyed at protest site. The state Department of Natural Resources reported Thursday that four endangered vines have been destroyed during the occupation of Pu‘u Huluhulu. Tribune-Herald.

State Raises Puuhuluhulu Impact Concerns, Kanaka Rangers Respond. The DLNR says it is investigating environmental impacts, while the Kanaka Rangers say they are closing the guided educational walks of the kipuka. Big Island Video News.

Officials Express Concern About Protestors’ Impact on Maunakea Environment. The Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement (DOCARE) is investigating the possible destruction of four, endangered Hawaiian ʻānunu vines in the Mauna Loa Forest Reserve, a Sept. 12, 2019, press release from the DLNR disclosed. Big Island Now.

DLNR: Mauna Kea protectors impacting endangered plants, animals. During a press conference on Thursday, the State Department of Land and Natural Resources announced claims demonstrators on the mountain are negatively impacting endangered plants and animals. KITV.

Ige hits back at Mauna Kea telescope protesters over flag ‘tactics’. Nearly a week after state crews used a saw to cut through the door of an illegal structure at a Mauna Kea protest camp, Governor Ige has accused activists of baiting law enforcement crews with the Hawaiian flag that had been affixed to the building. Hawaii News Now.

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State officials cracking down on unregulated CBD products. Growing national concern over the safety of unregulated CBD is prompting state health officials to target retailers selling products appealing to children and marketed for vaping. Star-Advertiser.

Experts tell lawmakers: Localize Hawaii’s CBD industry to safeguard consumers. On Thursday, lawmakers were given an education on the benefits and dangers of the increasingly popular drug that’s now flooding the marketplace. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Residents Report Low Rates of Food Insecurity, The Reality May Be Much Different. Fewer Americans are struggling with hunger than at any point since 2007, according to federal statistics. But local anti-hunger organizations say that data doesn’t tell the full story. Hawaii Public Radio.

State: Don’t buy rape kit. Hawaii’s attorney general added her voice to the growing number of state attorneys general speaking out against the MeToo rape evidence collection kit.  Tribune-Herald.

Report: Poor Kids Have Less Access To Sports In Hawaii. A lack of programs throughout the state contributes to inability to participate in high-quality sports experiences for many kids. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Comedian Augie T. Eyes Honolulu City Council Run. Augie Tulba is raising cash in a possible bid for Ron Menor’s seat. Civil Beat.

Pay Hikes For Water Board Engineers Outpace Other City Officials. And check out what we’re paying Honolulu City Council members and other employees of the city’s legislative branch. Star-Advertiser.

Prosecutor’s, Public Defender’s offices team up to offer homeless services. A deputy prosecutor and a deputy public defender, normally adversaries in court, have joined forces with the growing number of police officers and outreach workers taking to the streets, sidewalks and parks to make personal contact and offer services directly to the homeless in tackling one of Oahu’s most intractable problems. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

USDA Offers Disaster Assistance For Hawaii Farmers, Meetings Set. Disaster losses - including those from lava and VOG from the the Kīlauea eruption, as well as Hurricane Lane - will be eligible for assistance. Big Island Video News.

TMT traffic enforcement: 24 arrests, 2,237 tickets. The four-week-long campaign of enhanced traffic enforcement on Daniel K. Inouye Highway near the Thirty Meter Telescope protest and encampment site has netted 2,237 traffic citations and 24 arrests for 39 offenses, the Hawaii Police Department said Thursday. Tribune-Herald.

4 endangered Hawaiian monk seals admitted to Ke Kai Ola. Four endangered Hawaiian monk seals rescued from the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands are receiving care at Ke Kai Ola in Kailua-Kona. West Hawaii Today.

4 rescued monk seal pups thriving at Big Island’s Ke Kai Ola. our malnourished monk seal pups rescued from Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument are now doing well in the care of Ke Kai Ola, The Marine Mammal Center’s monk seal hospital in Kailua-Kona. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

Mayor begins county budget hearings for fiscal year 2020-21. Maui County Mayor Michael Victorino and his administration are presenting a series of community meetings this month and next month — beginning Monday — to receive public comments and suggestions on the proposed budget for fiscal year 2020-21. Maui News.

PUC OKs Hana Water System refund proposal. Hana Water Systems’ proposal to refund nearly $17,000 to customers who were overcharged for water services was approved Friday by the state Public Utilities Commission. Maui News.

Mayor Hannibal Tavares Community Center to Close for 12 Months Starting Oct. 1. Maui Now.

Kauai

South Shore rezoning bill stalls. A bill that would restore zoning within specific areas of Kalaheo and Koloa has been deferred. Garden Island.

Ride the bus for free Sept. 20. The county Transportation Agency announced that all ride The Kauai Bus free on Friday, Sept. 20, Ride the Bus Day. Garden Island.

Monk seals, sea turtles thriving, cannabis unprofitable, Senate plans special session for confirmations, Maui mayor criticizes injection well settlement plan, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honu sea turtle at Hawaii park ©2019 All Hawaii News

NOAA scientists report good news on monk seals and sea turtles. A team of researchers recently returned to Honolulu with positive news on Hawaiian marine life in the remote Papahanau­mo­kuakea Marine National Monument 1,500 miles northwest of Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Special Session Planned On Hawaii Court Nominees. The Hawaii Senate is scheduled to convene Sept. 16 in special session to review nominees to the state courts. Hawaii Public Radio.

Pakalolo profits have yet to light up in Hawaii. Two years after Hawaii’s first medical marijuana dispensary opened on Maui, the legal pot industry in Hawaii has yet to achieve profitability. Star-Advertiser.

UH Will Ask The Legislature For Money To Build, Demolish And Consolidate. A Board of Regents committee on Thursday OK’d a $236.5 million proposal for 2021 as part of a six-year modernization effort. Civil Beat.

New law requires Hawaii’s private schools to be licensed or accredited. All private schools in Hawaii will need to be licensed or accredited by July 1, and students attending schools that do not comply will be considered truant under a bill signed by Gov. David Ige. Star-Advertiser.

Retired Judge Appointed To Prison Oversight Commission. Mike Town, who retired in 2010, was appointed by Senate President Ron Kouchi. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s 129 Judges Are The Top Paid Judiciary Employees. They’re getting smaller raises these days, which concerns the chief justice who says qualified judges are hard to find. Civil Beat.

Why Is Tulsi Gabbard Paying This Obscure Consultant Big Bucks? Kris Robinson grew up in the same controversial religious sect as Gabbard. Now, he’s one of the top-paid vendors on her 2020 presidential campaign. Civil Beat.

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Social media post attempts to link Gov. Ige to impropriety with TMT. A social media post from Mauna Kea activists goes on the offense against the Governor and his wife Dawn. The governor denies the allegation. KITV.

2 Arrested As State Demolishes Structure Built By TMT Opponents On Mauna Kea. A protest leader said the house was constructed as an education space for kids, but the builders knew it wasn’t legal or sanctioned by anti-TMT leaders. Associated Press.

Overall costs of Mauna Kea law enforcement remain hazy. The Attorney General’s Office continues to withhold information about the overall costs of the state’s law enforcement efforts on Mauna Kea, where demonstrators have been blocking the road leading to the construction site of the Thirty Meter Telescope for nearly two months. Star-Advertiser.

TMT opponents go mobile with protest along Oahu roadways. Hundreds of vehicles driving from Hawaii Kai to Maili Beach Park on Sunday in opposition to the planned Thirty Meter Telescope on Hawaii island were greeted along the way with signs, Hawaii flags and people pushing their thumbs and forefingers together in a symbol of support for Mauna Kea. Star-Advertiser.

Hundreds of Mauna Kea protectors led convoy from Hawaii Kai to Waianae. Hundreds of Kiai or protectors of Mauna Kea took their cause to Oahu's roads Sunday morning for a convoy. KITV.

Ku Kiai Mauna leads Mauna Convoy from Maunalua Bay to Maili Beach Park. KHON2.

Government denies rumors of Monday sweep of TMT demonstrators. The Big Island Mayor's office denies rumors of a law enforcement sweep before dawn on Monday morning at Mauna Kea. KITV.

TMT opponents expecting sweep this week. About 1,000 opponents of the Thirty Meter Telescope massed at Mauna Kea Access Road by early afternoon Sunday as protest organizers summoned their supporters to prepare for a possible law enforcement sweep of the road as early as today. Star-Advertiser.

Native Hawaiian activists threaten legal action over Mauna Kea Access Road. Some Hawaiian Home Lands beneficiaries say the state acted illegally by allowing the building of the Mauna Kea access road, which they allege is theft of Hawaiian Home Lands. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

DHHL, city land swap for rail stirs questions. Another pending land swap involving the state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands is raising questions about whether the agency’s Native Hawaiian beneficiaries are getting the short end of the deal. Star-Advertiser.

Plans for new stadium taking shape. Incrementally constructing the new Aloha Stadium on the site of the present facility while tearing down the old one is among three preliminary concept options laid out in a just-released report for the Stadium Authority. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Mass Transit Administrator Brenda Carreira is asking the County Council to fast-track approval for a three-year contract for Hele-On bus service, although she doesn’t plan to disclose the vendor or the contract amount until after the matter is approved. West Hawaii Today.

Rain, no vog appear to be helping Kona coffee crop, though diseases and labor shortage present challenges. A combination of above-average rainfall and vog-free skies appears to have set up Kona coffee farmers for a better season this year, but a couple challenges are cropping up. West Hawaii Today.

Big Island’s coffee belt sees record rainfall in August. August was a very wet month for the Kona coffee belt. Tribune-Herald.

UH-Hilo planning for the future. Last updated nearly a decade ago, the University of Hawaii at Hilo is working to redo its strategic plan. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui Mayor 'Disappointed' In County Committee Backing Of Settlement In Wastewater Case. Maui Mayor Michael Victorino on Sunday criticized a decision by a County Council committee to recommend acceptance of a settlement proposal with environmental groups that sued over the use of injection wells. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui County Committee Agrees To Settle Injection Well Case. Maui County officials have recommended settling with environmental groups that sued over the use of injection wells. Associated Press.

Planning Department to be Short-Staffed During Statewide Conference. The County of Maui Planning Department will be hosting the annual Hawaii Congress of Planning Officials from Sept. 11 to 13. Maui Now.

County leaders draw names, excitement in home program. The County of Maui in August collected applications for its First-Time Home Buyers Down Payment Assistance Program. Maui News.

Kauai

Abandoned vehicles on the rise. In fiscal year 2019, the Kauai Police Department had 653 vehicles towed, and currently has more than 270 pending complaints. Garden Island.

Sediment sentiment. Periodically the state Department of Land and Natural Resources contracts a company to remove sand from the river mouth and restore flow back into the ocean, but the results never seem to last long. Garden Island

Ohia seed collection a success. A team of volunteers, state officials and county organizations combating rapid ohia death has just finished their first-ever seed-collecting event, and organizers are hailing it as a success. Garden Island.