Ige's approval rating tanks in poll as more voters oppose Thirty Meter Telescope on Mauna Kea, flag flap at Keaau high school, Honolulu council seeks corruption audit, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaiian cultural practitioners on Mauna Kea ©2019 All Hawaii News

Public support for TMT drops sharply, according to a new Honolulu Star-Advertiser poll. Public support for the Thirty Meter Telescope has declined sharply after more than two months of peaceful but determined protests on Mauna Kea, and most voters now oppose the idea of using force to reopen Mauna Kea Access Road to allow construction to move forward, according to a new Honolulu Star- Advertiser poll. Star-Advertiser.

Ige’s job approval rating tanks amid TMT debacle. Gov. David Ige’s job approval rating has sunk to a new low amid the ongoing standoff over the Thirty Meter Telescope on Mauna Kea, though Hawaii voters have an even lower opinion of the Legislature. Star-Advertiser.

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Tulsi Gabbard Earns Spot In October Debate. The Hawaii congresswoman will be back on the stage after missing the September debate. Civil Beat.

Audit: DOE misses millions in revenue. State auditors found that the Hawaii Department of Education has failed to collect millions of dollars in fees over the past decade and has no written policies or procedures in place to implement the process necessary to do so in the future. Garden Island.

Frustration, Desperation As Teachers Convene To Discuss Pay Issues. Consultants hired by the Hawaii Department of Education are meeting with educators around the state, seeking ways to improve compensation. On the first night they heard from many barely hanging on. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Police commissioner calls out city council during talk on public corruption scandal. Honolulu city council members want an audit done of local law enforcement agencies including the Honolulu Police Department, prosecuting attorney’s office and the ethics commission. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu officer charged with failure to report in urinal licking case. A Honolulu police officer has been charged with covering up for another officer in a case that involved forcing a homeless man to lick a public urinal. Hawaii News Now.

FBI raid of city records tied to Kealoha case, lawyers say. Members of a Honolulu City Council committee were told Tuesday that a raid of city computer servers earlier this year involved emails apparently tied to the federal corruption case that centered around former Police Chief Louis Kealoha and his wife, former Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Katherine Kealoha. Star-Advertiser.

Another Candidate Running For Manahan’s Council Seat. Jacob Aki is currently chief of staff to the Senate majority leader. Civil Beat.

Councilmembers question affordability of $773 million Blaisdell makeover. County lawmakers pressed for answers today on whether the city can afford to take on a $773 million redevelopment of Honolulu’s Neal S. Blaisdell Center. KHON2.


How much of the Blaisdell’s redevelopment will taxpayers pay for? The city isn’t sure. The city say plans for the projected $772 million redevelopment of the aging Blaisdell Center are moving along, and officials are working to secure a public private partnership for the project. Hawaii News Now.

Rent high? Don't blame short term rentals said expert. Oahu's shortage and higher costs of housing have been blamed on illegal short term rentals, but expects said that is not the case. KITV.

Chinatown Neighborhood Board Chair wants city to pack yellow bag rule. The Downtown-Chinatown rule for businesses to use new thick yellow trash bags isn’t popular among some in the community. KHON2.

Slopes of Diamond Head cleared of squatters in 2-week-long sweep.  After months of complaints, squatters are being forced off of the Diamond Head State Monument. Hawaii News Now.

Group elaborates on ideas to fix Koko Crater Trail. A non-profit group revealed its $100,00 plan to temporarily fix the dilapidated Koko Crater Trail. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Keaau High causes social media backlash after telling students not to wear flags as clothing. Officials at Keaau High School caused a stir online Monday after telling students not to wear Hawaiian Kingdom or Hawaii state flags on campus. Tribune-Herald.

Honua Ola gets go-ahead to drill deeper. The state Department of Health granted approval to Honua Ola Bioenergy, formerly known as Hu Honua Bioenergy, to drill three underground injection control wells to 800 feet at its power plant under construction at Pepeekeo. Tribune-Herald.

Is Aina Lea finally ready to be built? A South Kohala developer says it is moving forward with the Town of Aina Lea, while the county is reminding the company that all requirements must be met should the long-delayed project actually want to get off the ground. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Molina Addresses ‘Crisis-Level’ Affordable Housing Need. Councilmember Michael J. Molina has a new plan that might expand affordable housing opportunities for Maui families. Maui Now.

2 Dolphins Euthanized After Stranding On Maui Beach. There was another mass stranding in the same area less than a month ago. Civil Beat.


Two More Stranded Whales Euthanized Near Maui Beach. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration scientists euthanized two pygmy killer whales Tuesday after the mammals stranded themselves on Sugar Beach in Kihei, Maui. Hawaii Public Radio.

Two whales in separate pod euthanized after Sugar Beach stranding. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration confirmed that two pygmy killer whales stranded at Kihei’s Sugar Beach on Tuesday morning had to be euthanized based on their health. Maui News.

Two Stranded Whales Euthanized, Second Stranding Incident in Recent Weeks. Maui Now.

Wildlife officials euthanize 2 whales that were stranded on Maui beach. Hawaii News Now.

NOAA Fisheries responds to stranded pygmy killer whales near Sugar Beach. NOAA Fisheries responded to two pygmy killer whales (a member of the oceanic dolphin family) stranded on shore near Sugar Beach, Maui on Tuesday. KITV.

ABC Stores to build distribution center in Maui Lani Village. Owner purchases 40,000-square-foot lot for about $2M. Maui News.

A&B seeks 30-year water lease. It would allow EMI to divert water from East Maui streams. Maui News.

Kauai

Mayor heads delegation to Japan. A contingent from Kauai led by Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami is headed on a good-will mission to Japan. Garden Island.

Council to meet today. Among the agenda items, it will consider a resolution to accept a public access easement to Kauapea Beach. Garden Island.

New poll shows Ige leading governor's race, Green surges ahead for lieutenant governor; Yoshimura named to Senate seat; warden called to court in mistaken release of murder suspect, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

David Ige, Colleen Hanabusa

Civil Beat Poll: Ige Ahead Of Hanabusa In Hawaii Governor’s Race. Gov. David Ige, after trailing Congresswoman Colleen Hanabusa in a May poll, now leads by 9 percent among likely primary voters. Civil Beat.

Caldwell criticizes Hanabusa’s HART role. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell is wading into the Democratic primary for governor by publicly questioning U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa’s role as chairwoman of the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation, saying she failed to control the exploding cost of rail while she led HART. Star-Advertiser.

Civil Beat Poll: Josh Green Is Far Out Front In The LG Race. The Big Island senator garners lots of support from fans of former presidential candidate Bernie Sanders. Civil Beat.

Early walk-in voting started today at sites across the state. Hawaii Public Radio.

Preparations are underway at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam for the Wednesday repatriation to U.S. soil of presumed American remains from the Korean War turned over by North Korea. Star-Advertiser.

The State's August 1 test has been cancelled in observance of the ceremony on that day to repatriate the remains of U.S. Service personnel from North Korea. KHON2.

Teachers Question Modern Hawaiian History Curriculum. Hawaii Public Radio.

Voters could play major role in future of Hawaii's school system. KHON2.

A Chicago-based company that trademarked the name “Aloha Poke” has ignited a social media firestorm and calls for a boycott after sending cease-and-desist letters to local and mainland businesses with similar names. Star-Advertiser.

No aloha? Chicago eatery goes after poke shops for trademark infringement. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

A Surprise Challenge On The North Shore And Other Intriguing Senate Races. Open seats provide opportunities, while a longtime legislator is challenging to get his state Senate post back. Civil Beat.

Gov. David Ige appointed Jon Yoshimura to the seat previously held by former Sen. Will Espero on Monday. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu City Councilwoman Carol Fukunaga is seeking a second term to represent Makiki to Aiea, but first she'll have to defend her seat against three ambitious challengers who say more needs to be done to address issues like homelessness and affordable. Hawaii News Now.

New proposal aims to reverse Oahu's new "bag fee" that charges 15 cents per bag. Though the bag fee has only been in effect since July 1st, Honolulu City Councilman Trevor Ozawa thinks it's time for a change. KHON2.

A $136 million affordable rental housing project is underway in Kapolei after a delay of almost three years. Star-Advertiser.

Construction kicked off Monday on a new, 320-unit affordable housing complex in Kapolei. Hawaii News Now.

Affordable family rental community in east Kapolei breaks ground. KHON2.

More than a year after the city conducted a homeless sweep along the Moanalua Stream, many of them have returned — much to residents' dismay. Hawaii News Now.

Photographer challenges Hawaii Taser ban on 2nd Amendment grounds. Hawaii News Now.

After its first year of operation, Honolulu’s Biki bikeshare program exceeded its ridership goals and is hoping to expand into Iwililei, the University of Hawaii at Manoa and as far east as Kapiolani Community College by the end of the year. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

The state House District 1 Democratic primary race pits a 10-year legislator against a community activist who’s running for office for the first time. Tribune-Herald.

A 3rd Circuit Court judge has ordered the Hawaii Community Correctional Center warden to court to explain how a pre-trial murder suspect was erroneously released last week. West Hawaii Today.

Ongoing Kilauea eruption shatters previous record for longest in lower east rift zone. Hawaii News Now.

Businesses unite to try to attract visitors in the midst of Kilauea disruption. Experience Volcano Hawaii, an organization intended to boost tourism to Volcano, launched Monday during a small event at local art gallery, cafe and cottage Volcano Garden Arts. Tribune-Herald.

Lava-related brush fire claims four homes. Four houses were destroyed Saturday by a brush fire along Kilauea volcano’s lower East Rift Zone. Tribune-Herald.

'There really is a Pele': Big Island eruptions spur cultural revival. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii County on Friday awarded a bid for the Lono Kona sewer project to Honolulu-based contractor Nan Inc., which is now tasked with transitioning the neighborhood known locally as “Hamburger Hill” away from large-capacity cesspools. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Construction begins on a new high school in Kihei. KITV.

Maui County hotel numbers top most state categories for 2018’s first half. Occupancies lag, but room revenues increase in half-year. Maui News.

Ranch planting koa trees to ‘shade out’ invasive gorse. Its other secret weapon — a herd of hungry cattle — can eat the thorny shrub only when it’s young. Maui News.

A Maui ranch has planted thousands of acacia koa trees to help stave off the spread of an invasive plant species. Associated Press.

Kauai

The Kauai Chamber of Commerce will be presenting the Governor’s Forum at the Aqua Kauai Beach Resort near Hanamaulu from 6 to 7:30 p.m. to night to allow voters an opportunity to get to know the candidates better before casting their votes. Garden Island.

The Hanalei post office reopened its doors following repairs to damage caused by flooding from the record-breaking rainfall in April. Garden Island.

Uncertainty surrounded the future of the St. Regis Princeville Resort after weekend media reports said it had been purchased by a Miami-based hotel investment company, but the company denied on Monday that it had done so. Garden Island.

Gov. Ige, Tupola, pull ahead in poll, Trump support rises, Kauai mayor mulls suspension of vacation rental ban, 29-year-old wins $1M in Safeway contest, lava nears Big Island beach park, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. David Ige, U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa

The commanding 20-percentage-point lead that U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa enjoyed over Gov. David Ige in the Democratic primary for governor just four months ago has evaporated, with Ige pulling ahead one month before election day, according to a new Honolulu Star-Advertiser Hawaii Poll. Star-Advertiser.

New voter poll shows shift in support for gubernatorial candidates. Hawaii News Now.

New poll numbers are out in the race for governor, and they include some dramatic reversals. The new front-runners were once the underdogs. KITV.

A plurality of Democratic voters think Gov. David Ige is the most trustworthy candidate running this year and also rate him highest for leadership ability in the new Honolulu Star-Advertiser Hawaii Poll. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Governor’s Race: Clear Differences On Energy Policy. Among the biggest splits between the two Democratic contenders is whether natural gas should be part of the state’s energy future. Civil Beat.

Reaching the homestretch in her bid to upset Gov. David Ige in the Aug. 11 Democratic primary, U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa mused last week about what she calls a “fascinating statewide campaign” and on what she’s learned on the campaign trail, especially from millennials. Maui News.

State Rep. Andria Tupola has surged ahead of her opponent, attorney and former state Sen. John Carroll, in the Republican primary for governor, according to the latest Hawaii Poll. Star-Advertiser.

Support for President Donald Trump has risen to 91 percent among Hawaii Republicans — up from 73 percent in March — according to the latest Honolulu Star-Advertiser Hawaii Poll. Star-Advertiser.

OHA At-Large Candidates Have Raised Little Money So Far. None of the three incumbents — Lei Ahu Isa, Rowena Akana and John Waihee IV — reported spending any money this year and two are in debt. Civil Beat.

Australia adds to amphibious capabilities at RIMPAC. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Following The Money In Oahu Legislative Races. Fresh faces are raising and spending more than some longtime lawmakers with better name recognition. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation awarded a $25.9M construction contract for the first phase of its Kamehameha Highway resurfacing project to Road and Highway Builders LLC. Pacific Business News.

Kawananakoa records secret despite Supreme Court directive. Star-Advertiser.

Long-time TV newsman Jai Cunningham leaving to join HART. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu woman wins $1 million in Safeway contest. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu inflation slowed in the first half of the year as the state economy continued to see modest growth. Star-Advertiser.

The office vacancy rate in Downtown Honolulu reached an all-time high of 19.4 percent in the second quarter, and landlords looking to increase income are boosting parking rates for downtown spots, according to the second quarter office market report by CBRE. Pacific Business News.

Chick-fil-A plans Hawaii debut. A national fast-food chain largely known for a simple yet highly adored fried-chicken sandwich and commercials featuring cows plans its first Hawaii restaurant on Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Lava about half-mile from Isaac Hale park. The southern boundary of the flow front at the ocean entry of lava from Kilauea volcano’s lower East Rift Zone remained a little more than a half-mile away from Isaac Hale Beach Park and Pohoiki boat ramp on Sunday evening, according to Hawaii County Civil Defense. Tribune-Herald.

A small island has appeared offshore from where lava from fissure 8 enters the ocean. Tribune-Herald.

Pohoiki, Overflows, & The Tiny Lava Island. Big Island Video News.

Explosions, eruptions continue inundating the Big Island. Hawaii News Now.

The state Attorney General continues to provide no updates or shed further light on the status of a stolen drug evidence case involving the Hawaii County Police Department. West Hawaii Today.

Developers, businesses and single-home builders aren’t supposed to construct new cesspools anywhere in Hawaii, but a labor shortage within one Hawaii County department creates what is essentially a loophole, leaving open the possibility to do just that on the Big Island. West Hawaii Today.

Sudden shutdown displaces charter school’s students and teachers. Star-Advertiser.

Woman’s death from heroin overdose leads to dismantling of homeless camp. West Hawaii Today.

There’s one thing to understand right away about the root of the opioid crisis — there is no one thing. West Hawaii Today.

Once every decade, a commission is created to review and propose amendments to the county’s fundamental governing document, its county charter. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The best and not-so-best worlds:Looking at Maui’s hospital changeover, a year later. 1 year after hospital transition – growing pains: A more nimble hospital system is still facing employee and doctor recruitment challenges. Maui News.

Seabury Hall looking for new head of school. Board chooses not to renew contract of previous headmaster. Maui News.

Kauai

Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. is considering lifting a ban on legal transient vacation units on Kauai’s flood-­ravaged north shore if the owners agree to house some of the 15 families displaced when their homes were destroyed by severe flooding and landslides in mid-April. Star-Advertiser.

While coffee farmers throughout the state are getting their feet wet with new technology, Kauai Coffee Company is working on creating it. Garden Island.

The Mayor’s Advisory Committee for Treatment and Community Integration will host “Drug Addiction 101,” a community meeting at Kapaa Missionary Church from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Tuesday. Garden Island.

Hanabusa has 20-point lead over Ige in poll, Green leading Lt. Gov. race, Kim and Chin tied in #HI01, public strongly favors Thirty Meter Telescope, Maui mayor pushes $900M budget, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

David Ige, Colleen Hanabusa

U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa has a 20-percentage-point lead over incumbent Gov. David Ige less than five months away from the Democratic primary, with 47 percent of likely Democratic voters saying they would vote for Hanabusa if the election were held today, according to a new Hawaii Poll by the Honolulu Star-Advertiser. Star-Advertiser.

According to a new poll by the Star-Advertiser, Hawaii voters may be leaning towards electing a new governor. Hawaii News Now.

Many Hawaii voters are still undecided on who should be the state’s next lieutenant governor, but state Sen. Josh Green of Hawaii island has an early edge in the crowded race, according to the latest Hawaii Poll. Star-Advertiser.

Kim, Chin tie in race for U.S. House. Veteran lawmaker Donna Mercado Kim and Lt. Gov. Doug Chin are in a near tie in the race to represent urban Honolulu in the U.S. House, according to the latest Hawaii Poll, which shows the two front-runners each attracting roughly 30 percent of likely Democratic primary votes. Star-Advertiser.

Most see homeless problem getting worse. Registered island voters, in general, do not believe Hawaii’s homeless problem has improved over the last year, and 62 percent support the idea of so-called “safe zones” for homeless people to live without fear of getting swept. Star-Advertiser.

Nearly 20 years after Hawaii legalized medical marijuana, a slim majority of local residents support full legalization for recreational use of the federally illegal drug. Star-Advertiser.

A proposal to legalize medically assisted death for terminally ill patients cleared its last major hurdle at the state Legislature on Friday, paving the way for a full vote by the Senate, where the bill is expected to pass comfortably. Star-Advertiser.

The Last Committee: Medical Aid In Dying Bill Now Goes To Full Senate. The measure has been fast-tracked through the Hawaii Senate after coming over from the House earlier this month with additional safeguards. Civil Beat.

DOH Food Safety Branch says placard program working but hand-washing still an issue. It appears the state Dept. of Health's color-coded placard program is working, but even after three years since its launch, the number one problem is getting employees to wash their hands. KHON2.

Paying the Price of Technology Failures. High-profile failures of local government technology often make headlines in Hawaii. But there’s an everyday cost to those failures that are paid by businesses and citizens around the state. Hawaii Public Radio.

About 1 in 24 homes in Hawaii is a vacation rental, which is contributing to the state’s shortage of affordable housing, according to a report by an advocacy group. Associated Press.

State begins training Hawaiian language interpreters for courtrooms. Over the weekend, the state became one step closer to ensuring Hawaiian language interpreters are available for all courtrooms. Hawaii News Now.

Coast Guard crews located eight people in a life raft in waters hundreds of miles away from Hawaii Island Sunday. The Coast Guard says the eight people were part of the crew from a commercial fishing vessel named The Princess Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

A bill that would allow for a limited number of new bed-and-breakfast permits to be issued on Oahu while establishing stiffer fines for unlawful vacation rentals soon will go before the City Council. Star-Advertiser.

A hotel and condominium tower on Kapiolani Boulevard and mostly modest-priced homes on farmland in Waialua are a step closer to being developed after a Honolulu City Council committee vote Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Biki has increased the size of four existing Biki stops and installed two brand new ones. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu students lend voices as marches across country publicly decry gun violence. Star-Advertiser.

Students, teachers, parents march through downtown Honolulu to end gun violence. An estimated 5,000 people converged on the state Department of Education and then back to the state capitol. KHON2.

City and County of Honolulu offices will be closed Monday, March 26, 2018, in observance of Prince Jonah Kuhio Kalaniana‘ole Day, a state holiday. KITV.

Hawaii Island

On the eve of a court ruling that could determine the fate of the Thirty Meter Telescope in Hawaii, public support for the stalled $1.4 billion project has never been stronger. Star-Advertiser.

Kim says balanced budget isn’t enough. West Hawaii Today.

Creation of Hilo homeless facility in ‘very preliminary’ stages. Roy Takemoto, an executive assistant to Mayor Harry Kim, told the Tribune-Herald last week that the county is in the initial stages of acquiring access to two adjoining land parcels at the old airport in Hilo — located about 850 feet from Access Road — where it is looking to possibly erect tents and domes. Tribune-Herald.

There are opposite takeaways from this week’s sudden closure of Hawaii’s only homeless, government-sanctioned “ohana zone,” Camp Kikaha in Kailua-Kona. Star-Advertiser.

The County of Hawaii has ordered Hilo Farmers Market to remove the tarps and the tents that have been its primary structures for over 33 years or face $4,000 in fines for each day they remain in place. Big Island Now.

Pace of Kolekole Beach Park lead testing frustrates residents. State officials are going out to bid for more soil sampling at Kolekole Beach Park, which closed almost a year ago due to lead contamination. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Island’s natural beauty and seemingly endless opportunities for adventure have earned it a spot among TripAdvisor’s top destinations in the United States. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui County Mayor Alan Arakawa is asking the Valley Isle's council members to approve a $900 million budget for fiscal year 2019. The mayor is also proposing a new three-tiered progressive property tax structure, which he said would allow rate adjustments to generate the revenue required to maintain services and infrastructure. Pacific Business News.

Mayor’s final budget proposal calls for $820 million for fiscal year 2018-19. Spending would increase by $114.8 million, or 16.3%, over current period. Maui News.

Mayor Alan Arakawa’s budget proposes a tiered scheme for property taxes designed to increase income from second homes and investment properties, a growing trend that many say aggravates Maui County’s housing crisis. Maui News.

Maui County fiscal 2018-19 budget highlights. Maui News.

The Budget and Finance Committee received Mayor Arakawa’s proposed fiscal year 2019 budget today and will begin its review with committee meetings commencing on March 29. Maui Now.

Five Wailuku residents have checked out nomination papers to seek the Central Maui 8th House District held by two-time speaker and longtime Rep. Joe Souki. Maui News.

Kauai

Prince Kuhio Park expands. Tom Shigemoto of A&B Properties announced that the deed for 16 additional acres to the existing five-acre Prince Kuhio Park is nearly done, and turnover of the land to the Royal Order should be complete by year’s end. Garden Island.

You can now get a digital camera to help out with whale and dolphin research on Kauai, but there are only five available so the waiting list could be long. Garden Island.

The county will begin relocating the Poipu lifeguard tower on Tuesday morning. The tower will be moved 75 yards east of its current location. Garden Island.

Hawaii poll mixed on Trump immigration enforcement, Tulsi Gabbard says Hawaii in North Korea 'crosshairs,' Oahu poll shows airport authority opposition, resistance to pay more for rail, Green mulls lieutenant governor post, Kauai police chief seeks Honolulu job, Maui mayoral candidate in car crash, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard in Windward Oahu, courtesy Gabbard congressional office

U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard faced a rowdy crowd in Kailua on Saturday night for one of seven town hall meetings that she’s holding throughout the islands. Star-Advertiser.

Gabbard Focuses On North Korea Amid Questions About Syria. At her most contentious of three town hall meetings so far, the congresswoman tells her Kailua audience that Hawaii is in the “crosshairs.” Civil Beat.

Despite assertions of widespread consensus, Hawaii appears to be divided over whether the state should be spending money challenging President Donald Trump’s revised ban on travel to the United States by individuals from certain countries. Star-Advertiser.

Should Hawaii Defy Trump On Immigration Enforcement? Lawmakers are debating whether Hawaii should join communities balking at cooperating with the crackdown on criminal immigrants. Civil Beat.

The chairmen of Hawaii’s House and Senate tourism committees expect to meet in the upcoming week to resolve differences over vacation rental tax bills that have passed their respective chambers. Associated Press.

When compared with four international vacation destinations, Hawaii hotels were more expensive and less occupied during the month of March. Pacific Business News.

State lawmakers are hoping to alleviate the cost of college for some students with House Bill 1594. The proposed legislation would set up a new scholarship program called "Hawaii Promise." KITV.

State Sen. Josh Green has already laid out an ambitious project he’d take on as lieutenant governor. The only thing he hasn’t quite done yet is announce he’s running. West Hawaii Today.

The Fight Over Papahanaumokuakea Just Escalated. It’s not just Wespac that’s lobbying President Trump to undo marine monument protections in the Pacific. Civil Beat.

The solar industry continues to contract on the neighbor islands. Star-Advertiser.

Four Marine Corps Ospreys are expected to fly nearly 6,000 miles from Hawaii to Australia this week, refueling in midair and stopping a couple of times — while demonstrating again the long range, speed and versatility of the unique tilt-rotor aircraft, the Corps said. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

The latest Hawaii Poll by the Honolulu Star-Advertiser suggests a majority of likely Oahu voters want the city’s rail project to reach Ala Moana Center but are reluctant to pay more taxes to do so. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu residents are not particularly pleased with the condition of Honolulu International Airport, but a majority of them oppose the plan to create a new airport authority to try to better manage and maintain the state’s airport system. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu residents generally think homeowners should be able to rent part or all of their homes to visitors, but results of the latest Hawaii Poll were evenly split on whether online travel booking sites like Airbnb should collect taxes for clients. Star-Advertiser.

A bill introduced by two Honolulu City Council members would eliminate the city’s controversial Residential A tax category. Star-Advertiser.

A deadline has passed, but Gov. David Ige still could fill two upcoming vacancies on a state board regulating development in Kakaako using a controversial list of candidates from the Honolulu City Council. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Gas Co. said recently it expects to act on plans to integrate biogas from the city’s Honouliuli Wastewater Treatment Plant into its pipeline. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii State Department of Education will receive a $70 million grant from the U.S. Department of Defense’s Office of Economic Adjustment to make major improvements to Solomon Elementary School at Schofield Barracks in Central Oahu. Pacific Business News.

Many beachgoers in Lanikai returned to their vehicles on Easter Sunday with tickets left on their windshields. Hawaii News Now.

Commentary: Rail-financing controversy sure to take politicians’ futures for a ride. Star-Advertiser.

Commentary: As the Legislature nears its crunch, key lawmakers are showing signs they finally mean what they say about holding Honolulu rail accountable for incessant mismanagement and budget deficits. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Tests find no depleted uranium threat: But critics file petitions challenging Pohakuloa Training Area radiation monitoring. Tribune-Herald.

Major Kahaluu development draws concerns. West Hawaii Today.

A Hilo-based aerospace agency is on the chopping block as lawmakers sort out the state’s budget. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County collaborators are working on several fronts — making sure at least half of all police patrol vehicles per shift carry an automated external defibrillator, or AED, which can shock a heart back into normal rhythm — and teaching high school students hands-only CPR. Tribune-Herald.

VIDEO: Merrie Monarch Festival Begins In Hilo. Big Island Video News.

Merrie Monarch Festival schedule. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Mayor Alan Arakawa took 34 county-funded trips costing about $33,800 in 2016. Maui News.

A $28 million Maui estate that hosted celebrities such as Michael Jackson, Prince and Mel Gibson has been listed by Hawaii Life. Pacific Business News.

The median price of a single-family home in Maui County soared to $769,000 in March, the highest monthly benchmark in more than a decade, the Realtors Association of Maui reported this week. Maui News.

Former Maui County Councilman and mayoral candidate Mike Victorino was involved in a collision Thursday night in Kahului that sent two teenagers to the hospital with nonlife-threatening injuries. Garden Island.

Lettuce and kale sales have dipped in recent weeks in response to an unusual number of rat lungworm cases on Maui that have left many visitors and residents questioning where produce is grown. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai Police Chief Darryl Perry wants to return to Oahu to run a department that he believes is in need of competent leadership after years of scandal. Civil Beat.

The federal government and the state have taken a step back on the regulation of the restricted-use pesticide chlorpyrifos, but activists on Kauai aren’t giving up. Garden Island.

Vehicles are now using the new steel bridge over Keahua Stream on “Loop Road” — and a few people have found it creates an advantage for them. Garden Island.

The state’s planned 4-foot-wide aluminum pedestrian bridge over Hanakapiai Stream on Kauai’s North Shore is up for discussion — a community meeting will be held Tuesday in Hanalei. Garden Island.

A young green sea turtle was reportedly attacked and injured by a man Thursday at Nawiliwili Harbor. Garden Island.

Tropical Storm Darby leaves Hawaii, state Democrats split at convention, new marijuana magazine begins, cost of Maui special session, hot classrooms to greet returning students, audit find sloppy records at Big Island Parks&Rec, pollster predicts Kim lead for mayor, OHA threatens Mauna Kea lawsuit, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Tropical Storm Darby cleanup in Puna, courtesy Sen. Russell Ruderman

Darby swept through the state over the weekend as a tropical storm, but it weakened to a depression early Monday. The Tropical Storm Warning has been dropped for all islands as it moved away from Kauai. Hawaii News Now.

The 70-foot Spirit of Kona vessel grounded and sank early Sunday near Kukailimoku Point in Kailua-Kona. The coastline was closed from King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel to Kukailimoku Point until further notice. West Hawaii Today.

Political conventions usually strive to project an image of unity, but Hawaii’s rough-and-tumble primary race this year caused a rift in the party that is reflected in the divided Hawaii delegation. Based on vote totals, Sanders secured 17 Hawaii delegates while Clinton won eight. That means most of the Hawaii delegates traveling to Philadelphia prefer Sanders, including newly elected Hawaii Democratic Party Chairman Tim Vandeveer, U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard and Democratic National Committeeman-elect Bart Dame. Star-Advertiser.

A new statewide publication called The New Leaf aims to provide comprehensive information on all aspects of Hawaii’s emerging cannabis industry. Pacific Business News.

Next Monday, Hawai‘i public school students will return to classrooms across the state. And chances are, many of those school rooms will be hot. Hawaii Public Radio.

According to dockets filed with the Hawaii state Public Utilities Commission on Wednesday, NextEra Energy Inc. (NYSE: NEE) has filed to withdraw from its ongoing projects in Hawaii. Pacific Business News.

Big Risks Led To Big Losses For Hawaiian Electric. Hawaiian Electric leaders tried to turn an electric utility into an investment powerhouse. It didn’t quite stick. Civil Beat.

Oahu

The Federal Transit Administration has agreed to give city officials more time to come up with a plan to either find the money to finish the Honolulu rail project as originally planned or end it at Middle Street. Civil Beat.

Although the Federal Transit Administration has granted an extension until the end of the year for the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation and the city to develop a recovery plan for the Honolulu rail project, it's not as much time as Mayor Kirk Caldwell had requested. Pacific Business News.

The state is moving forward with plans to build a community of more than 200 affordable housing units in Honolulu as part of an effort to address Hawaii's homelessness problem. KITV.

Frustrated Hawaii health officials say they have faced a number of challenges trying to identify the source of a hepatitis A outbreak that has affected at least 74 people on the island of Oahu. Associated Press.

Hawaii

The Department of Parks and Recreation has plugged a leak in its cash-handling procedure following an audit that pointed to lax security. It’s not known how much money might not have found its way into the county coffers that should have been deposited there. West Hawaii Today.

It may not be the most scientific survey, but George Yokoyama said his political polling hasn’t been wrong in the 40 years he’s been doing it. Yokoyama’s latest poll, mailed to 3,000 Big Island households in early June, showed former Mayor Harry Kim leading former county Managing Director Wally Lau by double digits, Yokoyama confirmed this week. West Hawaii Today.

Accusing the state and University of Hawaii of having “grossly mismanaged” Mauna Kea, the state Office of Hawaiian Affairs has been working behind the scenes for months in a move to gain some control over the summit of Hawaii’s tallest mountain. Now, having been rebuffed in its attempts, OHA is threatening to go to court over the issue. Star-Advertiser.

Now, it’s time for Hilo voters to decide who will be their state senator. The District 1 seat is up for grabs after the death of Sen. Gil Kahele last January at age 73.  Tribune-Herald.

Greggor Ilagan, a Hawaii County councilman, is seeking to unseat state Sen. Russell Ruderman in the Democratic primary. And the race is getting heated. Tribune-Herald.

Democrats voting in the District 2 state House primary race have three vastly different choices. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

The dollar amount to help public employees at three Maui-area hospitals is not yet known, but the cost to taxpayers to hold a special legislative session was at least $10,000. Civil Beat.

A cascading waterfall surrounded by vibrant green grass and palm trees at the airport will be the new gateway for visitors arriving and leaving Maui starting today. Maui News.

Young Brothers is proposing a 4.4 percent general increase to its shipping rates that the company says would make up for rising expenses and low cargo growth, but some Maui County residents fear it would create hardships on agriculture and small businesses. Maui News.

A consent order between Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Co. and the state Health Department over air quality and reporting violations that calls for the sugar plantation to pay $600,000 in fines and other remedies has been finalized. Maui News.

Kauai

Former state land surveyor Thomas Oi is challenging incumbent state Rep. James Tokioka for the District 15 seat. Star-Advertiser.

In March, something unexpected happened. State Rep. Derek Kawakami gave up his secure spot in the House after a five-year stint and decided to run for the Kauai County Council. The rare open seat has spurred a three-way race to represent District 14, which runs from Wailua on the east side through Hanalei on the north shore. Civil Beat.

Lanai

Hawaii’s seasonally adjusted jobless rate fell in June to 3.3 percent, down from 3.6 percent during the same month last year. However, Lanai saw a tripling of its unemployment rate. Pacific Business News.

Ige job approval at 48 percent, one year into office; homelessness big issue as legislative session begins Wednesday; no indication 12 Marines used life rafts but were wearing special gear; feral parakeets damage crops; Molokai ferry suffering from cutbacks; aerial hunting begins on Maui; more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. David Ige © 2016 All Hawaii News

About half of Hawaii voters have a favorable impression of Democratic Gov. David Ige, but just one year into his administration, a significant chunk of people say he is not doing a good job. A statewide survey of registered Hawaii voters found that 48 percent approve of the job Ige is doing, while 41 percent disapprove. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s rampant homelessness clearly has the attention of island voters who aren’t pleased with how Gov. David Ige is handling the crisis, according to the latest Hawaii Poll. The poll found that 56 percent of registered voters statewide say Ige is not doing a good job on homelessness, while 34 percent approve of his handling of the crisis. Star-Advertiser.

Rep. Gene Ward, a Republican representing Hawaii Kai in the state House, is urging his colleagues to oppose the position of House leadership and Gov. David Ige regarding payments to the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands. Civil Beat.

The list of entities interested in becoming charter school authorizers in Hawaii is growing, as the state Board of Education prepares to weigh in on the increasingly contentious relationship between charter schools and the commission created in 2012 to oversee them. Civil Beat.

With the GOP presidential nomination still up for grabs, some say Hawaii's Republican Party could wind up having a greater say in who gets the nod. Hawaii News Now.

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Military personnel were working around the clock Monday, still on the search for the 12 missing Marines off Oahu's north shore. Recently three of four life rafts that were aboard the aircrafts were retrieved -- but the outcome is the same -- no survivors spotted. KITV4.

The 12 Marines missing after two choppers crashed off Oahu were wearing sophisticated life-saving gear that's being factored into how long officials think they can survive in the open ocean. Hawaii News Now.

All four life rafts confirmed to be aboard the two aircraft have been recovered. There is no indication from the sightings that any survivors have been aboard any of the life rafts. KHON2.

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People living in Hawaii, California and New York are the most likely to live paycheck-to-paycheck, even though the states have among the highest income levels. Star-Advertiser.

No one in Hawaii seems to have calculated the combined direct and indirect costs of all energy consumption for island farmers. But Matthew Loke, a visiting researcher at UH-Manoa’s Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Management, cited data from the 2012 Agricultural Census indicating that direct energy costs made up 9.3 percent of farm production costs in Hawaii. Civil Beat.

Rising parakeet population imperils farms, native plants. Associated Press.

Three Hawaii hotels on Maui and the Big Island retained their Five Diamond rating from AAA on the organization’s 2016 list of the 118 hotels that have earned the rating, including six hotels that earned the rating for the first time this year. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

A new Hawaii Poll done in December and earlier this month shows Oahu voters are most concerned now with homelessness, the city’s rail project, the economy and traffic, in that order. Star-Advertiser.

Enforcement of city codes to crack down on illegal vacation rentals on Oahu will escalate with the hiring this month of five inspectors to form a unit tasked with investigating housing and zoning code violations. Star-Advertiser.

A number of Honolulu-based high-tech startup companies opened their doors last week to attendees from the 2nd annual East Meets West Conference. Hawaii Public Radio.

A local nonprofit is seeking a special liquor license for Queen’s Beach in Waikiki to speed up possible approval for a National Football League event slated for Jan. 29-30. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

As they prepare for the regular legislative session that starts Wednesday, state lawmakers representing West Hawaii are balancing their priorities between statewide and local issues. West Hawaii Today.

The 2016 legislative session doesn’t begin until Wednesday, but a couple of East Hawaii lawmakers appear to be getting a head start. Tribune-Herald.

As Hawaii Island’s dengue fever outbreak marches on, some isle residents have been critical of efforts by state and county agencies to contain the mosquito-borne virus. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Public access to some state forest reserves and natural area reserves on Maui will be restricted while the state conducts aerial shooting to control populations of feral cattle, pigs, goats and deer. Maui News.

Kauai

The final version of a plan to manage the monk seal population in the Hawaiian Islands has been released by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, but officials on Kauai have been using many of the strategies outlined in the plan for years. Garden Island.

Kauai County is looking at solidifying rules as enforcement officials shut down transient vacation rentals operating illegally. Six illegally operating single-family transient vacation rentals have been closed outside the visitor destination area so far this year. In fiscal year 2015, officials shut down 71. Associated Press.

Molokai

Since the Molokai ferry began cutting its routes last September, the athletes and local commuters who once rode the boat now have mostly turned to air travel. Maui News.

Gov. Abercrombie loses popularity, Schatz-Hanabusa neck-and-neck, gay marriage bill filed, union contracts, hospital money added to special session, Monsanto calls for crop controls, Maui High band invited to Rose Parade, Waikiki's Royal Hawaiian Center for sale, buyer for Naniloa, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. Neil Abercrombie file photo (c) 2013 All Hawaii News

A majority of registered Hawaii voters who plan to vote in the Democratic primary — 51 percent — do not like the way Gov. Neil Abercrombie has been doing his job, according to a new poll. Just 39 percent said they approve of the governor's job performance, while 10 percent said they are unsure. Abercrombie's numbers have worsened since a Civil Beat Poll in June showed 48 percent of registered voters disapproved of his job performance while just 45 percent approved.

Hawaii's Senate primary is a pure toss-up, according to a new poll. Sen. Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) leads Rep. Colleen Hanabusa (D-Hawaii) by 38 percent to 36 percent, according to the poll conducted for the Honolulu Civil Beat. The Hill.

The state Senate's draft of a gay marriage bill would carve out a narrow exemption to the public accommodations law for churches that do not make religious facilities or grounds available to the general public for weddings for a profit. State lawmakers have been reluctant to interfere with the public accommodations law, which prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation, but lawmakers are interested in finding a balance between marriage equality and religious freedom. Star-Advertiser.

The "Hawai'i Marriage Equality Act of 2013" bill was officially filed Tuesday.  Senate officials confirm they will introduce the bill next week Monday, October 28 at the start of the same-sex marriage special session. Hawaii News Now.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie has asked the Hawaii State Legislature to expand the agenda for the upcoming special session to include measures relating to health services on Kauai and the funding of two recent collective bargaining agreements. Hawaii Reporter.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie has asked the Legislature to expand the agenda for the special session that begins Monday to include measures relating to health services on Kauai and the funding of two collective bargaining agreements for United Public Workers and Hawaii Government Employees Association. Abercrombie ordered lawmakers back to work to take up same-sex marriage legislation. Civil Beat.

State lawmakers will take up new contracts for public workers and emergency money for public hospitals on Kauai in addition to gay marriage during a special session. Star-Advertiser.

State lawmakers spend thousands of taxpayer dollars each year on refreshments for themselves, their staffs and guests at the Capitol. Civil Beat.

Monsanto Co. is calling for more controls on agrochemicals, including its Roundup line of glyphosate-based weedkillers, in response to an Associated Press report about concerns that illegal pesticide applications are harming human health in Argentina.Monsanto and other large agricultural firms have recently been the target of protests against, and legislation controlling, the use of pesticides and GMO crops in Hawaii. Associated Press.

State roundup for October 23. Associated Press.

Oahu

Kamehameha Schools said Tuesday that it is putting the buildings at the Royal Hawaiian Center on the market in a leasehold sale expected to raise hundreds of millions of dollars for Hawaii’s largest private landowner, which would retain ownership of the underlying lands. Pacific Business News.

Waikiki's biggest shopping center is for sale, and the price likely will be big. Really big. Perhaps the second-biggest price ever for a retail property in Hawaii. Kamehameha Schools announced Tuesday that it will seek a buyer for Royal Hawaiian Center in a deal that includes the mall buildings but not the underlying land. Star-Advertiser.

This time next year, a new owner may have control over the retail heart of Waikiki. Kamehameha Schools announced Tuesday that it is planning to sell the buildings that make up the iconic Royal Hawaiian Center, a mall that spans three blocks in Hawaii’s tourism center. Civil Beat.

Kuykendall Hall, a major hub for students at the University of Hawaiʻi at Manoa sits in disrepair when it could have been a model for sustainable architecture, planning and design in the state. Hawaii Independent.

Kahala residents say their neighborhood is looking better, since A&B Properties bought a number of homes from Japanese billionaire Genshiro Kawamoto. KHON2.

Reynolds Recycling's Hauula redemption center closed its doors to the public Tuesday after the city put up "no trespassing" signs on the Kamehameha Highway property. The 20,000-square-foot property is the focus of a long-running dispute between the city and real estate agent Choon James, who bought the property in 2006. Star-Advertiser.

With its success running a private, all-girls school for nearly 150 years, the St. Andrew's Priory School for Girls' board has approved plans to open an elementary school next fall tailored to the educational needs of young boys. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Hawaiian Airlines is trying again for Kona-Tokyo direct flights. Airline officials on Tuesday announced their intent to apply Thursday with the U.S. Department of Transportation for operating slots at Tokyo International Airport at Haneda that American Airlines intends to return later this year. West Hawaii Today.

America Asia Travel Center Inc. submitted the top bid for the Naniloa Volcanoes Resort last week, according to documents filed in federal bankruptcy court. The Los Angeles-based travel company is offering $3.5 million for the 383-room hotel and nine-hole golf course on Hilo’s Banyan Drive. Tribune-Herald.

Despite a mountain of bad press, a tangled heap of creditors and a political firestorm over the management of its lease, the troubled Naniloa Volcanoes Resort may soon have a buyer. Big Island Now.

About 100 people, many sporting red-and-white palaka armbands symbolizing their support for 24-hour public access to Papaikou Mill Beach, met Tuesday night with the area’s council member and the county’s top civil attorney. Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Nine hardworking contestants are dedicating time and talent as they vie to represent Kona’s specialty crop as Miss Kona Coffee. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Those who work in the juvenile criminal justice system say that there's a need for more youth services, including a safe house on Maui for girls, who constitute an increasing percentage of admissions to the Hawaii Youth Correctional Facility on Oahu. Maui News.

Arrivals of South Korean tourists on Maui are growing by the thousands each year, and the Valley Isle offers a perfect match for these visitors and what they are looking for, tourism officials said Monday. Maui News.

Maui High School's Saber Marching Band & Color Guard has been invited to the 126th Annual Rose Parade in California. KITV.

All 10 people aboard a small Cessna commuter aircraft, including eight passengers and two pilots, were uninjured after the plane made an emergency landing on the Piʻilani Highway in South Maui last night. Maui Now.

A single-engine Mokulele Airlines plane with 10 people aboard turned Piilani Highway into a makeshift runway, making an emergency landing safely in the northbound lane on the normally busy South Maui thoroughfare Monday night. Maui News.

An investigation has been launched into eight suspicious brush fires reported early this morning in Lahaina. Maui Now.

Kauai

Gov. Neil Abercrombie asked legislators Tuesday to consider a bill that would provide emergency funding for Kauai’s two public hospitals when the Legislature convenes for a special session on same-sex marriage next week.   The request comes less than a week before the House and Senate are set to begin talks and at a time when Hawaii Health Systems Corporation officials are working to ease financial woes across the state public hospital system. Garden Island.

In 1995, the Hanalei River bank broke down in a bad way. Today, the state Department of Land and Natural Resources is proposing to return the river back to its original form to the tune of nearly $2 million. Garden Island.

Hawaii voters like Schatz, Maui Dems release names but not finalists for House seat, more bones found on Honolulu rail route, Oahu ballot shortage questions remain, state to get $150M from travel sites, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Brian Schatz with Gov. Neil Abercrombie file photo

Hawaii voters generally think Gov. Neil Abercrombie was right to pick his former lieutenant governor, Brian Schatz, to replace the late U.S. Sen. Daniel K. Inouye, according to a new Civil Beat Poll conducted last week. Civil Beat.

Hindus now have a fellow believer in Congress. Associated Press.

Steady revenue growth from Hawaii's tourism-driven economic recovery may tempt state lawmakers this session to satisfy some of the pent-up demand for state spending since the recession, but lawmakers do not have enough confidence in the economy for much of an expansion. Star-Advertiser.

Teachers who organized the so-called "work to the rule" protests that spread to schools statewide are planning a rally at the State Capitol this week for legislation that the teachers' union says it does not support. Hawaii News Now.

The investigation of widespread ballot shortages that plagued Oahu voters on Election Day is finished, but the thoroughness of the probe is now being brought into question. KITV4.

A judge has ordered some online travel sites to pay the state roughly $150 million for a decade’s worth of back taxes and interest. Associated Press.

The Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources is mounting a renewed push for long-term funding for the protection of the state’s critical watershed areas. Civil Beat.

A Civil Beat poll found 80 percent of respondents had both cell phones and landlines, 11 percent said cell phone only and 9 percent said landline only. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Electric Co.’s Robbie Alm said Thursday that Hawaii will meet, and probably even exceed, its preliminary mandate of achieving 15 percent clean energy by 2015. Pacific Business News.

Of 27 movies, Elvis Presley made 3 in the islands. Star-Advertiser.

Ben Jay, the new athletics director at the University of Hawaii, will spend his first official day on the job in Manoa on Monday. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu
Archaeologists for the city’s rail transit project unearthed another set of human remains Sunday as they worked on one of two remaining trenches in the proposed downtown corridor. Star-Advertiser.

A company that leases more than 35 acres from the state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands to operate a racing facility in Leeward Oahu has been hit with more than $100,000 in property-related violations, is several months behind on its rent and is under investigation by DHHL for allegedly clearing land outside the parcel's boundaries and possibly damaging historically significant sites, according to public records and information from city and state agencies. Star-Advertiser.

Former Honolulu Mayor Peter Carlisle announced he would be an international business adviser for the law firm O’Connor, Playdon & Guben. Civil Beat.

Nearly a dozen people woke up early Saturday morning to take a stand against animal cruelty, specifically cock fighting. KHON2.

Hawaii

Former veteran lawmaker from Hilo Jerry Chang has been named to replace Gerald De Mello, the longtime University of Hawaii at Hilo public relations chief. Big Island Now.

A Big Island landowner has racked up a sizable tab with the Hawaii County Planning Department. Tribune-Herald.

After nearly a year of inaction, some South Kona residents are frustrated by the county’s apparent inability to fix a broken solar heating system for its public swimming pool at Konawaena High School. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui Democratic Party releases names of seven qualified applicants for the state House seat vacated by Gil Keith-Agarn, but didn't reveal the three finalists sent to Gov. Neil Abercrombie. Maui News.

A dedication ceremony was held on Friday for the new $26 million science building at the University of Hawai’i Maui College campus in Kahului. Maui Now.

Members of the community last week objected to the proposed removal of concrete modules that were mistakenly dropped on coral within the Keawakapu artificial reef three years ago, citing cost issues and the possibility of creating more problems. Maui News.

Maui County has disclosed it paid $40,000 last year to settle a federal lawsuit filed by a Maui woman who was shot by a Taser gun by one of four police officers in 2006 at her Wailuku home. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai
On Sunday, less than two weeks after being sworn into office, U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (D-District 2) made her first visit to Kaua‘i since the election. Garden Island.

One month and one week after taking office on December 3, the new Kaua‘i Prosecuting Attorney Justin Kollar said the staff is coming together more quickly than he expected. Garden Island.

If all goes smooth, one of the best skate parks in the state will be ready by the end of the year in Hanapepe, thanks to a partnership between a hardcore group of community members, do-it-yourself skateboarders and local government. And that’s just the first of a series of planned skate facilities. Garden Island.

Molokai

Molokai’s Native Hawaiian Library is sponsoring an Open House and Event, Ua Mau Ke Ea: Sovereignty Endures on Thursday, Jan. 17 from 4 to 6 p.m. Molokai Dispatch.