Sunscreen's link to coral decline, money a factor in vacation rental bill, homeless problems in Hilo, Kahului and Waikiki, vehicle dumping on Maui, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Cauliflower coral in Hawaii ©2019 All Hawaii News

How Scientists Discovered the Link Between Sunscreen and Coral Reef Death. It’s now commonly known that many chemicals commonly found in sunscreen are harmful to coral reefs. But that link wasn’t established until 2015 and many challenges to mitigating the negative effects remain. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii climate modeling company expects less risk this hurricane season. The Central Pacific Hurricane Center predicted an above-normal tropical cyclone activity this hurricane season; however, a Hawaii- based climate forecasting and risk management company anticipates a below- normal season. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric’s Ambitious Plan To Quit Using Coal Is A ‘Moon Mission’. To replace a coal plant set to close in 2022, HECO is seeking private developers to build  new wave of renewable energy generation and storage facilities around the islands. Civil Beat.

Money may determine fate of vacation rental measure. The measure, Senate Bill 1292, would generate an estimated $46 million in extra tax collections next year, and key lawmakers said they need that cash to pay the bills. Star-Advertiser.

Conflicts, Lax Oversight Shroud This Secretive Fisheries Fund. A federal fisheries oversight council has stymied inquiries by congressmen, journalists and others over the past few years. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Council panel discusses sliding fee scale for vacation rentals. Vacation rentals in areas that command the most bookings would be hit with higher permit fees under a proposal being considered by one City Council member as a way to address the proliferation of illegal units on Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

City, state moves ahead with seawater air-conditioning project. A really, really big plastic straw for sucking up sea water several miles off Kakaako might be ready for deployment next year as part of a system to air-condition 40 or so buildings mostly downtown. Star-Advertiser.

City begins bulky trash collection through appointment-based pilot program. In a bid to rein in ballooning costs for handling trash, the city is moving Urban Honolulu’s bulky item pickup to an appointment-based system starting Monday. Hawaii News Now.

Developer helping produce accessory dwelling units. When the city allowed construction of small rental units on single-family house lots in 2015 to help ease Oahu’s housing crunch, homeowners were expected to build these accessory dwelling units. Star-Advertiser.

Waikiki pavilions might be converted to deter homeless. The city pavilions in Kuhio Beach park on Kalakaua Avenue were built so local residents and tourists could pause awhile to bask in the beauty of Waikiki’s sandy shores and aquamarine waters. Star-Advertiser.

Business owners say months-long Pali Highway closure is seriously hurting sales. The thoroughfare has been shut down since the rockfalls in February and its packing a major punch to local businesses. Hawaii News Now.

Veterans meet with congressman to discuss issues facing their community. Congressman Ed Case sat down with local military veterans this weekend to learn more about the issues they experienced after their service. Hawaii News Now.

Marine biologist worried about coral health on Oahu's North Shore. Marine biologist Terry Lilley claims bad coral health correlates with erosion. Millions of people visit Hanauma Bay in East Honolulu every year but one marine biologist says those outer reefs are healthier than the ones on Oahu's North Shore where fewer people swim. KITV.

Hawaii Island

Growing the budget: Final council reading Wednesday. The County Council has already added $1.1 million to Mayor Harry Kim’s record-setting $573.5 million operating budget. On Wednesday, council members are poised to add even more. West Hawaii Today.

Firefighter raises, bonuses questioned. A pay plan for firefighters that includes raises as well as bonuses and other perks could be on shaky ground, with Mayor Harry Kim opposed and the County Council offering only tepid support. West Hawaii Today.

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Homeless get the boot from Mooheau; guards stationed at two locations. The deep cleaning was a reaction to the steadily worsening conditions at the park. Homeless communities lingering at the park led to increasingly unsanitary conditions, with trash and human waste accumulating throughout the park. Tribune-Herald.

Homeless Cleared As Mooheau Park Gets A Cleaning. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii County closes Hilo park favored by homeless, citing cleaning and safety. Associated Press.

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Proponents of new gun law say it will help police, protect owners; others say it’s obtrusive. Hawaii County’s police chief said a recently enacted law — requiring gun owners to report a lost, stolen or destroyed firearm to county police within 24 hours of discovery of the loss — shouldn’t have been necessary. Tribune-Herald.

PGV eyes new wells. The state Department of Land and Natural Resources is reviewing applications for two new geothermal wells at Puna Geothermal Venture. Tribune-Herald.

Proposed rules to manage Mauna Kea stir worry in the Native Hawaiian community. The University of Hawaii is asking for public feedback on its latest draft rules to improve management of Mauna Kea. Hawaii News Now.

Council seeks to tweak polystyrene law. Bill 74 removes the requirement that alternative containers to polystyrene must be recyclable under the county’s recycling program. Instead, the new law will simply require them to be recyclable. West Hawaii Today.

Interior Secretary: Firm Decision On Volcano Observatory Location Months Away. A final decision on where the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory will be located remains months away, U.S. Interior Secretary David Bernhardt said last week during a visit to the Big Island. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kona Village Rezone Gets PONC Site Visit. Neighbors opposed to a planned 450 unit development in Kailua-Kona are reaching out to a Hawaii County commission in the hopes of keeping it in open space. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Maui police plan for isle homeless aims to divert instead of arrest. Pilot is modeled after successful Seattle program. Maui News.

Kahului’s homeless crisis gets an unflattering comparison: It’s starting to look like Honolulu’s. It’s a scene that’s relatively new for Maui: Homeless campsites popping up along the roadside in Kahului. Hawaii News Now.

Dumping of cars on Maui on rise; illegal sites cropping up. County trying to deal with issue of disposal cost. The illegal dumping of cars along Maui’s highways has grown by at least three times in six years, and the county official who handles their removal attributes some of the increase to the cost of disposal. Maui News.

Vehicle disposal program aims to reduce car dumping on Maui. A county in Hawaii has established a free vehicle disposal program in response to car dumping. Associated Press.

Kauai

Next stop — growing ridership. The Kauai Bus ridership for fiscal year 2019 has nearly eclipsed 2018’s total of 760,415 total passengers. Garden Island.

County conducting fair market rent survey. Residents recently received a letter from the Kauai County Housing Agency, requesting them to fill out a 20-question survey in order for the agency to obtain data on what Kauai families are actually paying for rent. Garden Island.

Cocaine missing from evidence prompts indictment of two veteran police officers, 4 others; rural broadband coming to Hawaii; Honolulu council overrides property tax veto; bird poop threatens rail workers, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii police on parade ©2019 All Hawaii News

Two retired police officers charged with drugs, conspiracy offenses. Two separate indictments were filed Monday against two retired police officers, each with more than 20 years of service. West Hawaii Today.

A grand jury has indicted two retired Hawaii Police Department officers in a case involving stolen drug evidence, according to court records. Associated Press.

Two retired Big Island police officers indicted for gambling, drug-related crimes. KITV.

Two retired police officers have been indicted. KHON2.

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FCC grants Hawaii counties $18.1M to expand rural broadband services. The Federal Communications Commission on Tuesday authorized more than $18.1 million in funding to expand broadband services to over 3,900 unserved rural homes and businesses in Hawaii’s four counties over the next decade. Star-Advertiser.

High speed internet coming to rural Hawaii. The Federal Communications Commission wants to expand services to areas like Hawaiian Acres on the Big Island, Hana, Maui, Hanapepe, Kauai, and Kahuku on Oahu. KITV.

The Navy has awarded the University of Hawaii a contract worth up to $77 million over five years for its defense-related Applied Research Laboratory. The Hawaii lab’s focus includes ocean environmental effects of natural and man-made underwater noise sources on littoral, or nearshore, anti-submarine warfare, as well as marine life. Star-Advertiser.

UH Wants To Cut Tuition For Some Grad Students — Especially Out-Of-Staters. Proposed new tuition rates being considered by the Board of Regents seek to reverse declines in graduate student enrollment. Civil Beat.

Bank of Hawaii is finally exiting American Samoa — 6-1/2 years after putting its plans on hold following a plea by the U.S. territory’s governor. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

City Council overrides mayor’s veto of a bill that will lower property taxes. Hawaii News Now.

How Honolulu Property Tax Decisions Could Affect Owners. The Honolulu City Council on Tuesday overrode Mayor Kirk Caldwell's veto of a bill that increases the standard home exemption on property taxes while advancing his proposal to hike the tax rate on hotels and resorts. Hawaii Public Radio.

Council committee again tosses out trash pickup fee. The Honolulu City Council Budget Committee on Tuesday again rejected Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s plan for a trash pickup fee, but approved proposals to raise rates in the hotel-resort and nonowner occupant property tax categories. Star-Advertiser.

City Council Overrides Caldwell Veto On Tax Break. The Honolulu mayor prefers a bill providing targeted property tax exemptions. Civil Beat.

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HART Poised To Approve $1.4 Million To Combat Bird Droppings. Rail officials say so many pigeons and other birds are nesting inside the transit line’s cavernous concrete guideway that it’s become a health hazard to workers. Civil Beat.

Turf war brewing in Waikiki as beachboys spar over contract obligations. A year after it awarded lucrative Waikiki beachboy concessions to Dive Oahu, the city said its revenues have nearly doubled. Hawaii News Now.

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With jury selection for Kealoha trial underway, attorneys now look to get an advantage. KHON2.

Hawaii News Now: Kealohas Are Retaliating Against Our Reporter. Lynn Kawano of Hawaii News Now says in court records that the Kealohas are trying to stop her from covering the trial because of her investigative reports. Civil Beat.

Commentary: Stories of misdeeds and corruption have helped shape Hawaii’s history, going back to a royal opium scandal that contributed to efforts to overthrow the monarchy. Civil Beat.

Commentary: How I Became A Witness In The Kealoha Corruption Trial. Civil Beat.

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First-time homeowners handed the keys to new affordable housing towers in Kakaako. A two-bedroom affordable unit in Ke Kilohana measures about 750 square feet and prices start at around $473,000. Hawaii News Now.

Howard Hughes opens Ke Kilohana workforce tower: Slideshow. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii Electric Light Co.’s agreement with Puna Geothermal Venture to rebuild power transmission lines and related infrastructure will require state Public Utilities Commission approval and a public hearing. Hawaii Electric Light Co.’s agreement with Puna Geothermal Venture to rebuild power transmission lines and related infrastructure will require state Public Utilities Commission approval and a public hearing. Tribune-Herald.

The controversial geothermal power plant in Pohoiki must hold a public hearing and win the approval of the state Public Utilities Commission before it can rebuild transmission lines that were wiped out by last year’s Kilauea eruption. Star-Advertiser.

Puna Geothermal, HELCO Agreement Pushes Rebuild Forward. Big Island Video News.

Polystyrene ban coming. The convergence of two unrelated events has food vendors crying foul and may lead to changes in the county’s polystyrene ban. West Hawaii Today.

County steps up action against Hilo encampment’s landowner. The owners of a downtown Hilo property on which a homeless commune has been established owe the county nearly $6,000 in fines. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui Residents Push Back On Loosening Liquor Laws. Allowing restaurants to sell take-out booze is the latest in a series of controversial proposals. “We don’t want Maui to turn into Las Vegas,” says one critic. Civil Beat.

Maui Mayor Michael Victorino toured the old University of Hawaii Maui College dormitory site on Tuesday afternoon with Lt. Gov. Josh Green and Maui County Council Member Tasha Kama, chairwoman of the council’s Affordable Housing Committee. Maui Now.

Kauai

Waiting is the hardest part. According to the Hawaii Department of Transportation, the Lihue-bound lane of Kuhio Highway will remain closed for the duration of the slope stabilization, which is expected to take between four to five months to complete. Garden Island.

U.S. Supreme Court to hear Hawaii Clean Water Act cesspool case, Trump seeks to pull California rail funding over wall lawsuit -- could that happen to Honolulu? Plus, legislators want more Capitol security, county preps for foam food container ban, more top news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii's green Big Island ©2019 All Hawaii News

The U.S. Supreme Court will consider limiting the reach of the Clean Water Act, agreeing to hear a case from Hawaii centering on treated wastewater that ends up in the Pacific Ocean. Bloomberg.

Supreme Court to decide if Clean Water Act limits Hawaii’s underground waste water dumping. The Supreme Court agreed Tuesday to hear an important case on the Clean Water Act and decide whether environmentalists can sue to block Hawaii’s disposal of waste water that flows underground into the Pacific Ocean. Los Angeles Times.

The Supreme Court is set to take up a critical debate over the scope of federal water protections. The justices today agreed to hear what amounts to the biggest environmental case of this year: a dispute over which types of pollution discharges trigger the Clean Water Act. E&E News.

The U.S. Supreme Court has agreed to hear a case centered on how Maui County treats its wastewater. KHON2.

The U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday agreed to consider limiting the scope of a landmark law aimed at curbing water pollution in a dispute pitting an environmental group against local authorities in Hawaii over a wastewater treatment plant. CNBC.

U.S. Supreme Court County of Maui v. Hawaii Wildlife Fund docket.

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Could this happen to Hawaii? Trump wants California to pay back billions for bullet train. The Trump administration said Tuesday that it plans to cancel $929 million awarded to California’s high-speed rail project and wants the state to return an additional $2.5 billion that it has already spent. Associated Press.

Border wall declaration could divert $300M appropriated for Hawaii programs. State Attorney General Clare Connors says Hawaii “has a lot to lose” if the president diverts federal funding for his border wall as part of a national emergency declaration. Hawaii News Now.

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Lawmakers want State Capitol to be safer after deadly shooting. Lawmakers are in shock that a shooting involving a Sheriff's deputy took place at the state capitol. KHON2.

The fatal shooting by a sheriff’s deputy Monday night of a 28-year-old man at the state Capitol was the second in the area in the last four months. Star-Advertiser.

Man Dies After 'Extreme Struggle' With Deputy Sheriff Outside Hawaii Capitol. The man was shot in the torso after he attacked the officer, said state Public Safety Director Nolan Espinda. Civil Beat.

A man who was killed in an officer-involved shooting at the state Capitol on Monday night was “physically combative" with a sheriff’s deputy despite numerous warnings, state Public Safety officials said. Hawaii News Now.

The state Department of Public Safety says the deputy sheriff was conducting routine patrols at the Capitol in downtown Honolulu Monday night when he encountered a man with a bottle of alcohol. Hawaii Public Radio.

Public Safety Director addresses shooting at State Capitol. The director of the Department of Public Safety, Nolan Espinda, held a news conference to address the shooting at the State Capitol. KHON2.

Public Safety Department seeking body cams and tasers for sheriffs after a deadly shooting at the State Capitol. KITV.

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The state agency that oversees Hawaii’s jails and prisons would be required to submit a report to the governor within 48 hours of the death of an inmate or employee of a correctional facility under bills being considered by the Legislature this year. Star-Advertiser.

Sex-trafficking bills opposed by new prostitution lobby. A newly formed prostitution lobby in Hawaii is pushing back against bills in the Legislature that seek to combat sex trafficking in Hawaii, arguing that the executive director of the state agency that is seeking the measures wields a “radical feminist agenda” that doesn’t take into account the views of local sex workers. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii aquaculture industry struggles to compete with foreign fish imports. Hawaii shrimp and fish farmers said the most significant barrier to new enterprises are choking state and federal regulations--a bureaucratic structure that largely doesn’t apply to foreign imports. Hawaii News Now.

Alala poised to breed this year in the wild. Since late 2017, 21 alala, or Hawaiian crows, have been released into the wild under monitoring by the Alala Project, a joint effort between the state Department of Land and Natural Resources, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and San Diego Zoo Global to revitalize the critically endangered species. Tribune-Herald.

Oahu

Police Union Goes To Court To Overturn Labor Board Ruling On Officer Transfers. The State of Hawaii Organization of Police Officers challenged the right of Police Chief Susan Ballard to reassign officers. Civil Beat.

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Traffic nightmare on Pali Highway could last the rest of the week. Traffic was snarled Tuesday on Oahu’s Windward side in the wake of Monday’s multiple landslides that closed Pali Highway in both directions. Star-Advertiser.

Old Pali Road remains unstable, shifted 18-inches since landslide. Hawaii News Now.

Landslide Closes Pali Highway And Seriously Injures Woman. The road was completely closed Tuesday and portions will remain shut down all week while the area is surveyed. Associated Press.

The Honolulu-bound lanes of the Pali Highway are expected to remain closed through next Monday following landslides yesterday that shut down the road. Hawaii Public Radio.

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Judge turns down request to disqualify prosecutors. A state judge refused Tuesday to disqualify the Honolulu Department of the Prosecuting Attorney from presenting a criminal case due to a pending petition to suspend prosecutor Keith Kaneshiro. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu’s cost of living is challenging for a lot of residents, but it’s especially tough for young adults who are just getting started and trying to build careers. Adults aged 25 to 34 are facing higher college tuition, higher rents and bigger housing prices than previous generations. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii Island’s ban on polystyrene — also known as Styrofoam — food containers goes into effect in less than five months, and an educational program for businesses and the public is about to begin. West Hawaii Today.

Council Advances Hilo Water Bottling Zoning Request. A controversial proposal to draw water from an artesian water source within the Mauna Kea aquifer sector and sell it as bottled water went before a Hawaii County Council committee on Tuesday. Big Island Video News.

Bank of Hawaii plans to build a new branch in Hilo. The proposed location is at 1339 Kinoole St., at the northeast corner of the intersection with Lanikaula Street. Tribune-Herald.

A bill funding a study for a new boat ramp in Puna cleared the Senate Ways and Means Committee on Tuesday. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Crews Respond to Entangled Humpback off Maui. A team of trained responders is attempting to locate and assist a humpback whale that was first reported entangled off the coast of Maui over the weekend. Maui Now.

Plans move ahead for new hotel on old Maui Palms site. Construction could start by the end of the year if permits granted. Maui News.

The public is invited to offer ideas and comments for the Baldwin Beach Park Master Plan during an open house held by the Department of Parks and Recreation on Wednesday, March 6, at the Kaunoa Senior Center. KHON2.

Scent of Extinct Maui Mountain Hibiscus Revived by Science. The Hau Kuahiwi was found in the ancient lava fields of Auwahi in Kahikinui on the southern slopes of Haleakala in 1910 by horticulturist Gerrit Wilder. Maui Now.

Kauai

Pacific Seabird Group to host annual meeting on Kauai. Kauai is hosting a meeting of the minds this month, a gathering of researchers and experts who will be swapping stories, discussing discoveries and talking technique at the 46th annual meeting of the Pacific Seabird Group. Garden Island.

Styrofoam ban advances, sports gambling considered, judge rules against non-solar water heaters, shipping costs rise, Mauna Kea ski video rankles, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Polystyrene 'styrofoam' takeout ©2019 All Hawaii News

Statewide styrofoam ban advances. A bill to ban styrofoam containers for take-out food -- statewide. KHON2.

The House Judiciary Committee today will consider a bill to legalize and regulate sports betting in Hawaii, which is now one of only two states in the nation that has no form of legalized gambling. Star-Advertiser.

Bail-reform legislation, seven years in the making, is moving rapidly through the Legislature. The bills would require public safety officials to make it easier for people to gain release if they are arrested for nonviolent crimes and are not a flight risk, requires consideration of a defendant’s financial situation before setting bail, and eliminates money bail for low-risk offenses. Civil Beat.

Judge: DBEDT must adhere to solar water heater mandate. Environmentalist and renewable energy advocates are hailing a court decision Tuesday ordering the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism to follow state law mandating all new single-family homes include solar water heaters and to consider variances for gas water heaters only on a case-by-case basis. Tribune-Herald.

Court Ruling On Water Heaters Will Help ‘Protect The Climate’. The state has been wrongly approving too many gas hot water heaters in new homes, a judge says. Civil Beat.

Effort To Pump Up Voter Interest In Elections Goes Nowhere In Legislature. It looks like there will be no hearings for bills that would have advanced the top two primary vote-getters to the general election regardless of political party. Civil Beat.

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Legislature Seeks to Reform OHA Elections. State legislators have taken the first step toward overhauling the elections process for Office of Hawaiian Affairs trustees. The Senate Hawaiian Affairs Committee started with campaign funding and the way candidates' names are listed on the ballots. Hawaii Public Radio.

The attorney for former Office of Hawaiian Affairs Trustee Rowena Akana said Wednesday his client will appeal a state Ethics Commission complaint that imposes a fine of more than $23,000 for 47 ethics violations. Star-Advertiser.

Former OHA Trustee Rowena Akana Hit With $23K Ethics Fine. Akana, who served on the Office of Hawaiian Affairs Board of Trustees for nearly 30 years, may also have to pay back more than $21,500 in gifts. Civil Beat.

Ex-OHA trustee who used office allowance for cable bills slapped with hefty fine. Former OHA trustee Rowena Akana must pay more than $23,000 in fines for accepting legal fees from Hawaiian heiress Abigail Kawananakoa and misusing her annual office allowance. Hawaii News Now.

Former Office of Hawaiian Affairs trustee Rowena Akana must pay more $23,000 in fines. The State's ethics commission found that she committed 47 ethics violations. KITV.

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It was Agriculture Day at the State Capitol today inside committee rooms and outside on display tables. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii lawmakers want to fight mosquitoes ... with more mosquitoes. But introducing new insects could have adverse affects. Hawaii News Now.

Young Brothers LLC announced Wednesday it has received approval from the state Public Utilities Commission for its first significant rate increase in six years. Garden Island.

Rate increase for interisland service. The 4.3% rate increase is critical to allow Young Brothers to reinvest in its business and upgrade equipment to continue providing essential interisland cargo transport services. KHON2.

Gabbard Takes Heat On MSNBC Over Russia, Assad. As the Hawaii congresswoman escalates her bid for president, she’s already facing stiff questions from journalists on a number of issues. Civil Beat.

Gabbard on defense after more bad publicity. On national television on Wednesday, she was questioned about her positions on Syria and Russia and even the Ku Klux Klan. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Manoa board calls for pause in Ala Wai Flood Control Project. The Manoa Neighborhood Board unanimously passed a resolution Wednesday calling for a halt on an Ala Wai Canal flood control project to give stakeholders an opportunity to give feedback on a plan to add detention and catchment basins to the upper reaches of Manoa, Palolo and Makiki. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu home, condo prices, sales all declined in January for first time since 2010. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu housing inventory up, prices down. KHON2.

Developers to receive incentives. The Honolulu City Council is proposing a new bill that would ease building requirements for developers in an effort to increase affordable housing options. KHON2.

City seeks landowner incentives to build hundreds of affordable rentals. As skyscrapers were added to Honolulu’s skyline and “monster homes” sprouted up in residential neighborhoods, low rises in Makiki and Moiliili have decayed. Hawaii News Now.

City begins to condemn Palolo properties damaged by severe erosion. Hawaii News Now.

Mysterious Manoa Tree Hackers May Be Peddling Hallucinogenic Bark. Large gashes in acacia trees, whose bark is reportedly hallucinogenic, were first noticed in December by Manoa residents. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu Police Department met for its monthly Commission meeting and one of the topics that came up was recreational marijuana. KITV.

Sewer spills were at a historic low last year amid ongoing monitoring and proactive measures taken by the City and County of Honolulu’s Department of Environmental Services. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

A bill to provide state funding for restoring lava-covered portions of Highway 132 cleared its first committee Wednesday at the state Capitol. The Senate Committee on Transportation voted unanimously in favor of Senate Bill 1298, which provides $15 million for restoration. Tribune-Herald.

At the request of the state Department of Health, legislators have shelved a bill that would have funded two ambulances for Hawaii Island, including one at the Makalei Fire Station. West Hawaii Today.

Pahoa pool reopens to the delight of area residents. For the first time in months, swimmers glided through the water at the Pahoa Community Aquatic Center on Wednesday morning. Tribune-Herald.

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Lawmakers and The Office of Maunakea Management said they were disturbed by a recent social media video that shows three individuals skiing and snowboarding on Puu Poliahu on Maunakea on University of Hawaii managed lands. West Hawaii Today.

Snowless Skiing On Mauna Kea Denounced. Big Island Video News.

The Office of Maunakea Management condemned a video posted to social media showing three individuals skiing and snowboarding down a revered volcanic cone on Mauna Kea that is managed by the University of Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Video of skiers, snowboarders on Mauna Kea sparks outrage. KITV.

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People packed the room at the Grand Naniloa Resort to hear about the proposed Pacific Spaceport Complex-Hawaii and the environmental assessment process. Big Island Video News.

Dozens of residents crowded into a public meeting on Wednesday to learn about a proposal to build a satellite launch facility on the east side of the Big Island. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

A council committee on Tuesday advanced a recommendation of Michele McLean as director of the Department of Planning, but voted down the mayor’s appointment of Pat Wong as Corporation Counsel. Maui Now.

Planning’s McLean gets preliminary OK. Committee 5-4 vote comes amid claims of ‘prescripted’ process. Maui News.

Panel votes against Wong confirmation. Corporation Counsel choice second to go down in panel. Maui News.

A House committee holds a hearing on Friday to consider the holdover of revocable water permits, allowing for the continuation of water leases authorized in previous legislation. Maui Now.

VA one-stop facility is ‘progressing’. Still, local veterans have waited for more than a decade. Maui News.

Kauai

Bolstering the bridge. For weeks, Hawaii Department of Transportation workers in their yellow coats have been floating their barge through yellow barriers around the base of the bridge over Wailua River. Garden Island.

Obama encourages next generation at East-West Center, former Lt. Gov. Tsutsui to head Maui farm venture, Ige works to fill Cabinet, Jim Nabors' home sold, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Former President Barack Obama, courtesy Obama Foundation.

Former President Barack Obama stressed the importance of cultivating the next generation of leaders during a speech Sunday night at the East-West Center that harked back to his roots as a community organizer in Chicago. Star-Advertiser.

Obama: ‘We Have A Deficit of Leadership And We Need New Blood’. The former U.S. president launched a program in Hawaii this weekend aimed at nurturing future leaders in the Asia-Pacific region. Civil Beat.

Former President Obama speaks at UH Manoa for launch of foundation’s Asia-Pacific leadership program. Former President Barack Obama spoke at a private gathering Sunday at the East-West Center, his foundation's first major event in Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

Facebook video of Obama's address. Star-Advertiser.

Tulsi Gabbard Is A Rising Progressive Star Despite Her Support For Hindu Nationalists. A possible run for president has prompted the Hawaii congresswoman to publicly distance herself while continuing to court them in private. Civil Beat.

Gov. Ige’s New Cabinet Is Still Almost Half Empty. He has made 11 appointments so far, and nine of the department heads are carryovers from his first term. Civil Beat.

The private money that’s keeping Hawaii’s national parks open is running out. Hawaii News Now.

Vacation rentals in Hawaii appear to have displaced timeshares as the third most sought-after lodging choice behind hotels and condominiums in 2018. Star-Advertiser.

The state Department of Public Safety violated federal law when it ignored a Halawa Correctional Facility inmate’s requests to engage in certain Native Hawaiian religious practices, according to a court ruling. Star-Advertiser.

Task Force Criticizes ‘Punitive Mentality’ Of Hawaii Criminal Justice System. The group opposes the construction of a bigger Oahu Community Correctional Center and calls for a new focus on rehabilitation. Civil Beat.

The Law Enforcement Standards Board is asking the state Legislature for additional time and money to create and implement statewide standards for training and certification of county and state law enforcement officers. Tribune-Herald.

State senators on Friday questioned why Gov. David Ige’s administration chose to file lawsuits over President Donald Trump’s immigration policies but declined to join in class- action litigation against drug manufacturers and distributors that are being blamed for the opioid epidemic across the country. Star-Advertiser.

Humane Society backs bill allowing dogs at restaurants. The Humane Society, along with its fellow animal rescue organizations on neighbor isles, is pushing for a bill this legislative session that would give restaurant owners the discretion to adopt dog-friendly policies. Star-Advertiser.

A new rule bans feeding and abandoning feral animals at small boat harbors statewide. Governor David Ige approved the rule in December 2018 in an effort to help protect native and endangered species being threatened by feral animals. KHON2.

The state Department of Accounting and General Services' annual small claims report shows the state paid $179,148.77 to resolve 174 claims during the last fiscal year. KHON2.

Oahu

Oahu home prices hit 2018 records amid slowing sales. The annual median price paid for a single-family home rose nearly 5 percent to a high of $790,000, and the annual median price paid for a condominium increased nearly 4 percent to a record $420,000. Star-Advertiser.

Deadline to Appeal Property Tax Assessments Approaching. Properties in several districts saw value increases around or above 10% last year, resulting in a higher tax bill for homeowners. Hawaii Public Radio.

A state senate candidate who's challenging his election loss calls Hawaii's recount law "unconstitutional." Matt LoPresti still holds out hope for a recount and he submitted a response to the Hawaii Supreme Court Friday. KITV.

State and city officials plan to temporarily postpone homeless sweeps a week before — and during — the upcoming annual Point in Time Count to try and ensure an accurate census of Oahu’s homeless population. Star-Advertiser.

Veggies Really Are Cheaper In Chinatown — If You Know How To Shop. The secret to bargain prices: An alternative network of local suppliers, low overhead, selling out daily and less fussiness about the perfect-shaped fruit or vegetable. Civil Beat.

New medical cannabis dispensary opening in Kaneohe. A new medical marijiana dispensary will be opening on the Windward side. KITV.

The sale of an oceanfront estate near Hawaii’s Diamond Head that belonged to the late Jim Nabors closed on Friday for $12 million to an undisclosed buyer. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Some $6.8 million in new fuel tax money barely survived a close County Council vote last month, but its future seems more assured now that the Department of Public Works has released a working list of resurfacing projects to be completed with the money. West Hawaii Today.

Keaau isn’t the only place the state has explored the idea of establishing a spaceport in recent years. Tribune-Herald.

A development expected to bring 450 units to Kailua-Kona is moving forward. Developers expect to file an application related to the project with the county’s Planning Department this week. West Hawaii Today.

The Thirty Meter Telescope keeps coming up in conversations at the Hawaii State Capitol. Big Island Video News.

National park closure creates sprawling consequences in, around Honaunau Bay. West Hawaii Today.

Developers seek to build 30-megawatt solar farms. The agreements require approval of the state Public Utilities Commission, and the documents were submitted for review Dec. 31. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Twenty-one businesses have asked the county to delay enforcement of the ban on foam containers until after they sell the last of their affected noodles, such as the popular Cup Noodles and Maruchan Instant Lunch. Maui News.

Mahi Pono could generate 1,000-plus jobs. Former lieutenant governor joins company, set to begin farming on 41,000 Maui acres, as new vice president. Maui News.

Former Hawaii Lieutenant Governor Shan Tsutsui will join Mahi Pono, LLC, as its Senior Vice President of Operations and will lead the farming venture on Maui. Maui Now.

Former Hawaii Lt. Gov. Shan Tsutsui has been named senior vice president of operations of Mahi Pono LLC, the company that recently purchased 41,000 acres of former sugar cane land from Alexander & Baldwin Inc. Pacific Business News.

The Nisei Veterans Memorial Center on Maui is naming former state Sen. Jill Tokuda as its new executive director. Associated Press.

New Kahikinui renewable energy proposals sought. Process restarts after NextEra, Sempra efforts failThe Department of Hawaiian Home Lands is again seeking applicants for renewable energy projects in Kahikinui in southeast Maui after previous proposals, including one from a NextEra subsidiary, fell through. Maui News.

Kauai

Tourists Keep Coming To Queen’s Bath Despite The Deadly Danger. The county and a community association try to discourage visitors, especially during the wettest months, but tour books point the way. Civil Beat.

Anaina Hou Community Park’s new playground is open for business and already popular with local families, according to organizers. Garden Island.

The National Tropical Botanical Garden and Kauai Community College present their first collaborative event of 2019 in the ongoing Earth Matters public lecture series at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday with a panel discussion, “Building Resilience in the Face of Climate Change.” Garden Island.

Hawaii Supreme Court weighs in on Honolulu council race, complaint filed over GOP campaign finance, media weigh in on top 2018 stories, new laws for 2019, more top state and local government news from all the Hawaiian islands

Diamond Head aerial view ©2018 All Hawaii News

No fishing at Waikiki to Diamond Head shoreline in 2019. Environmental advocates like the idea of a closure, but think the time frame needs to be longer for it to be effective. KITV.

More than two years after Gov. David Ige’s administration unveiled a 10-year, $378 million plan to escalate the state’s fight against invasive species, much of it remains unfunded and the governor plans to ask the Legislature to provide only a fraction of what was envisioned for the next two fiscal years. Star-Advertiser.

A longtime critic of the Hawaii Republican Party is alleging top state GOP leaders violated federal campaign spending laws by illegally funneling excess contributions to Cam Cavasso during his campaign for the U.S. House this year, but Republican Party Chairwoman Shirlene Ostrov says the party assistance to the Cavasso campaign was legal. Star-Advertiser.

A new law that goes into effect Tuesday aims to put a tighter leash on dog owners who fraudulently try to pass their pets off as service animals. Star-Advertiser.

With the 2018 hurricane season now behind us, the state has mailed out surveys to some Hawaii residents asking how prepared they are to face a major hurricane. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Ceded Lands Revenue Debate Simmers At Capitol. Big Island Video News.

Ahi prices are up as tradition is coming at a higher cost. KHON2.

The year that was 2018 might best be known in Hawaii for its explosions — the ones that did happen and the big one that didn’t. Star-Advertiser.

As the year comes to an end, Hawaii News Now takes a look back at the impressive and unforgettable stories of 2018 in this digital documentary. Hawaii News Now.

Star-Advertiser photographers pick their photos of the year. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

State Supreme Court to decide fate of City Council race with razor-thin win. Nearly eight weeks after the general election, one of the closest races still hasn’t officially been decided. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Supreme Court says elections of Ozawa, Fevella uncertified. On Friday, the five Justices ordered state and city election officials to provide the following to Waters and LoPresti: information setting forth the margin of error for the electronic vote counting machines when applying the tabulation procedures, and -information setting forth how the intent of the voter is ensured in a close election without a hand count. KHON2.

Impeachment Waits While City Considers Paying Kaneshiro’s Legal Fees. A judge puts the case on hold to give the City Council time to decide if taxpayers must provide the prosecuting attorney with a lawyer. Civil Beat.

The petition to oust Honolulu Prosecutor Keith Kaneshiro is being described as uncharted waters. KHON2.

A new report by Honolulu Auditor Edwin Young concludes that a ban on foam or polystyrene food containers on Oahu would not reduce litter on the island, but would negatively affect some smaller businesses. Star-Advertiser.

More than 100,000 residents and visitors are expected to view the annual Fireworks by Grucci display that will begin at 11:55 p.m. tonight from a barge in waters off Waikiki Beach. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Leilani Estates residents are giving up on a lawsuit they filed against Hawaii County that would have returned a security checkpoint to the neighborhood devastated by lava. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii County Council is being asked to add projects related to damage caused by recent disasters to the capital budget and accept funds for a recovery plan for Puna. Tribune-Herald.

The partial closure of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park does not appear to be keeping tourists away from Volcano, to the relief of businesses that depend on them. Tribune-Herald.

With a new year just around the corner, improvements at the Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole continue. West Hawaii Today.

Aloha, 2018! The Tribune-Herald’s top stories of the year. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Fate of Fong land in Keokea now up in the air. Dispute over water meters, subdivision puts Grandma’s site in question. Maui News.

Applications and proposals for a recycling grant program through the county Department of Environmental Management are being accepted for the next fiscal year, which begins July 1. Maui News.

A project to honor Maui County’s Mayors and Managing Directors was unveiled Thursday afternoon featuring a Wall of Mayors and a Wall of Managing Directors on the 9th Floor of the County Building in Wailuku. Maui Now.

Kauai

Peter Ingram, Hawaiian Airlines president and CEO, will be the keynote speaker at the Jan. 15 meeting of the Kauai Chamber of Commerce at the Aqua Kauai Beach Resort. Garden Island.

Top 10 stories: A look back at 2018. Garden Island.

Hawaii Supreme Court overturns public records exemption, feral cat feeding at harbors banned, Honolulu rail meets federal deadline, Maui Styrofoam ban to begin, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Feral cat feeding in Hawaii ©2018 All Hawaii News

 Gov. David Ige has approved new rules for the state’s small boat harbors that prohibit camping and the feeding of feral cats at the harbors. Star-Advertiser.

The backlog of repair and maintenance projects at Hawaii’s public schools is an estimated $868 million, roughly three times worse than what legislators were told in January. Star-Advertiser.

For the first time since statehood in 1959, Hawaii’s population declined for two consecutive years with fewer births, more deaths and a greater number of residents moving to the mainland. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii and Japan have signed a memorandum of cooperation for a reciprocal partial exemption of driver’s license exam requirements. Star-Advertiser.

Former President Barack Obama back in Hawaii. When Barack Obama was President of the United States, it was an annual tradition to spend the holidays in Hawaii. It looks like that tradition is continuing. KHON2.

Oahu

Hawaii Supreme Court Overturns 30 Years Of Government Secrecy. The ruling says that the city of Honolulu — as well as many other government agencies — have withheld public records for decades using an excuse that doesn’t exist in state law. Civil Beat.

In win for transparency, state Supreme Court overturns restrictions on public records. Hawaii News Now.

Gov. David Ige is pushing forward on plans to relocate Oahu’s overcrowded jail in Kalihi to Halawa Valley, inserting $5 million into his proposed budget for fiscal year 2020 for studying financing options for the facility, which is estimated to cost about $525 million. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Meets Federal Demands On Rail Project. City and rail officials satisfied federal requirements that they spend $44 million in local funds on the project, pursue a public-private partnership and update their financial recovery plan. Civil Beat.

The Federal Transit Administration said all requirements have been met in order for it to proceed with a review of the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation’s revised recovery plan on Thursday. Pacific Business News.

Partners In Care — the group organizing January’s six-day census of Oahu’s homeless — needs hygiene products and volunteers in every community. Star-Advertiser.

Christmas Eve homeless sweep upsets civil liberties groups. The city gears up for a Christmas Eve homeless sweep in Waikiki. Before dawn, crews will enforce the Sidewalk Nuisance Ordinance and the Stored Property Ordinance, and civil liberties groups are upset at the timing. KITV.

Coast Guard welcomes Cutter Kimball, the first of its kind to call Hawaii home. Hawaii News Now.

A Hawaii historian is looking to preserve an old Quonset hut on Oahu that was possibly part of a segregated encampment for black laborers and enlisted men during World War II. Star-Advertiser.

Aulani lauded for embracing Native Hawaiian language. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

The Big Squeeze: an analysis of tax and fee increases island residents are expected to pay. West Hawaii Today.

The Big Squeeze, Part 1: Five county taxes and fees are increasing. West Hawaii Today.

The Big Squeeze: Part 2, the state. West Hawaii Today.

The Big Squeeze: Part 3, utilities. West Hawaii Today.

Lava rock could lay foundation for basalt industry. The Big Island produced a lot of new lava rock this year, and some of it could be the raw material for a new local industry, according to a report commissioned by a state agency. Star-Advertiser.

The bikeshare program in Kailua Village is doubling from three to six bike stations, thanks to action Wednesday by the County Council. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Plate lunches soon will need a new plate. New law bans foam takeout containers starting Dec. 31. Maui News.

Old post office for bus hub land exchange is approved. Final council meeting of term: Lease pact involves old Wailuku Post Office. Maui News.

Officer Involved Shooting in Wailuku Under Investigation. Maui Now.

Kauai

The Kauai Island Utility Cooperative Nominating Committee has selected three candidates for its Board of Directors election on March 23, all of them incumbents: Calvin Murashige, Jan TenBruggencate and Peter Yukimura. Garden Island.

Kauai forestry experts have been operating at elevated levels on Kauai since a more virulent form of rapid ohia death was found on the island for the first time last week. Star-Advertiser.

Rep. Tulsi Gabbard tests presidential waters, state sued over autistic student services, Honolulu Styrofoam food container ban proposed, Lingle to address Maui crowd, coquis come to Kauai, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard ©2018 All Hawaii News

Is This The Beginning Of Tulsi Gabbard’s Bid For President? The congresswoman will travel from a high-profile event for Bernie Sanders progressives in Vermont to New Hampshire, where she’ll participate in a pre-presidential meet and greet. Civil Beat.

Colleen Hanabusa Is Now The Legislature’s Attorney In Case Against The State. Two nonprofits filed a lawsuit in September to improve government transparency in the lawmaking process. Civil Beat.

State sued over services for autistic students. Lawyers for the Hawaii Disability Rights Center filed a lawsuit in U.S. District Court Wednesday against the state Department of Education and Department of Human Services. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Climate Commission Pushes For State Carbon Tax. The group of state and county officials said it’s the most effective method to reduce emissions from cars, trucks and buses. Civil Beat.

Is Ocean Warming Causing A Decline In Hawaii Whale Sightings? Researchers and wildlife officials meet in Honolulu to discuss the “unprecedented” decrease in sightings throughout the islands. Associated Press.

The 2018 Central Pacific hurricane season will end Friday much like it started — with a couple of months of smooth sailing and no tropical cyclones on the horizon. It was the middle part that got rather dicey. Star-Advertiser.

Strike-ending deal means 5 hotels down, about 15 more to go. As striking hotel employees begin returning to work today at five Marriott-managed hotels, the focus shifts to about 15 other major Hawaii hotels where union members soon will be pushing for better wages and benefits. Star-Advertiser.

The largest container ship ever built in the U.S. sailed into Honolulu Harbor on Wednesday. Matson says the “Daniel K. Inouye,” named for the late U.S. senator, is the most efficient and fastest ship in its fleet. Hawaii News Now.

Largest container ship built in US arrives in Hawaii. Named in honor of Hawaii's late senior U.S. senator, the Daniel K. Inouye is the first of four new ships being built for Matson that will be introduced in Hawaii over the next two years. KHON2.

‘Inouye’ arrives in Honolulu as newest, biggest, fastest Matson ship. The largest containership ever built in the United States cruised into Honolulu Harbor Wednesday after three years of construction and an initial voyage from Philadelphia to California via the Panama Canal earlier this month. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

New proposal introduced to ban styrofoam containers. The proposed bill would ban restaurants from using polystyrene foam or styrofoam containers. KHON2.

Measure to speed building permit approval becomes law. A bill aimed at speeding up the processing of building permits will become law despite Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s lingering concerns about it. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor Caldwell Unveils Plan to Issue Residential Permits in 60 Days. The Honolulu City Council passed Bill 64 two weeks ago to speed up the permitting process for residential homes. Today, the Mayor announced his own plan. Hawaii Public Radio.

Caldwell allows Honolulu building permit bill to become law, unveils new plans to speed permit process. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell on Wednesday said he will allow a bill requiring building permits for one- and two-family homes to be issued within 60 days to become law without his signature, and announced seven initiatives to speed the building permit process, including one requiring all third-party-reviewed permits to be issued without re-checking and another that will close one-stop building permit centers to new applications one day a week. Pacific Business News.

City rolls out new initiatives aimed at speeding up permitting process. After a flurry of complaints, the city has kicked off some new initiatives to speed up the permitting process. Hawaii News Now.

New law reduces wait time for certain building permits. But there are specific requirements when it comes down to fast-tracking the application process. KITV.

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Abigail Kawananakoa asks court to amend trust, give $40M to wife. Court records show Abigail Kawananakoa has changed her trust to ensure that her wife receives $40 million and all her personal property, including her Chihuahua “Girlie Girl.” Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Princess Amends Trust To Ensure Wife Gets $40 Million. The action by Abigail Kawananakoa’s legal team comes during a court battle over her capacity to make decisions about her fortune. Associated Press.

Amid questions about her health, Heiress Kawananakoa seeks to amend trust to give wife $40M. The battle over Heiress Abigail Kawananakoa’s $215 million fortune is intensifying. Hawaii News Now.

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Privately Funded, ‘Destination’ Playground Proposed For Ala Moana Park. A nonprofit would oversee building the free, fenced-in site featuring zip lines, fountains, a snack concession and a police office. Civil Beat.

Ride Sharee works with City Council to draft rules for dockless bike parking. When you rent a bicycle from Ride Sharee, there isn't a bike rack to return it to. That's because the bikeshare is dockless. KITV.

HFD responding to possible chemical leak at Island Energy Service. Honolulu firefighters are responding to reports of a fire and chemical leak at a refinery on Oahu’s Leeward side. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Commission gives positive recommendation to sewer fee hike bill. The Environmental Management Commission on Wednesday sent the Hawaii County Council a positive recommendation on a measure that would nearly double sewer fees over the next three years. West Hawaii Today.

Commission rules against Waikoloa Highlands developer. The state Land Use Commission Wednesday voted to revert more than 700 acres in South Kohala from rural district to an agricultural land classification after determining that the developer of a planned 398-lot residential subdivision did not substantially get the project off the ground. West Hawaii Today.

SBA Disaster Recovery Center Opens In Hilo. Assistance for Hawaii businesses and residents affected by Hurricane Lane is now available, U.S. Small Business Administration officials say. Big Island Video News.

Waipio Valley residents concerned for safety after permits revoked. Morgan Toledo's family has lived in the heart of Waipio for generations. KITV.

Maui

Former Governor Linda Lingle to Speak at Nisei Veterans Memorial Center. Former Governor Linda Lingle will speak at the Nisei Veterans Memorial Center’s Leadership Series Luncheon on Sunday, Dec. 16, 2018 at 1:30 p.m. at the Kahili Golf Course Nahele Ballroom. Maui Now.

Planning commission defers action on Paia Inn. Panel reviews permit denial for 9-bedroom vacation rental. Maui News.

A proposed education and outreach center dedicated to Kahoolawe’s history got approval from the Maui Planning Commission on Tuesday. Maui News.

The Maui Energy Conference returns to the Maui Arts Cultural Center March 27-28, 2019 with a new name. Maui Economic Development Board announced today that the conference would be renamed the Hawaii Energy Conference. Maui Now.

Kauai

Coqui have arrived. Since September, six coqui frogs have been captured in Kapahi, rousing the attention of invasive species groups dedicated to keeping them off of Kauai. Garden Island.

Lunch is served, finally. Malama Kauai’s Farm-to-School program just opened its commercial kitchen trailer at the school and Chef Barbara Kaauwai is serving lunch for the school every day. Garden Island.