U.S. Supreme Court upholds Hawaii reapportionment, Abercrombie's State of the State today, Hanabusa opens headquarters, former Maui mayor to run for state House, corruption crackdown at prison, Health Dept. refutes metals found in Hanalei Bay, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

undersea cable courtesy photo

State regulators are looking into whether an undersea power cable between Maui and Oahu would be in the public’s interest. The Hawaii Public Utilities Commission is inviting the public to comment on the cable at meetings today at Farrington High School in Honolulu and Thursday at Pomaikai Elementary School in Kahului. Associated Press.

The U.S. Supreme Court has upheld Hawaii's reapportionment plan that leaves out some military personnel and students when calculating population and determining state legislative districts. The justices affirmed a lower court ruling without comment today. Associated Press.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie will address the Legislature this morning in his fourth State of the State address, in which he is expected to tout Hawaii's economic recovery while setting the stage for his re-election bid this year. The speech, set to begin at 10 a.m. in the House chamber of the state Capitol, will likely include Abercrombie's proposal to raise the state's minimum wage and for state-funded preschools. Star-Advertiser.

Governor Neil Abercrombie will lay out his administration's focus for the next year during the State of the State Address Tuesday morning, and one of the key issues he's expected to touch on is Hawaii's rapidly growing elderly population. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii lawmakers last week started hearing bills to boost government transparency, improve elections and hold public officials more accountable. In the first week of the 2014 legislative session, one of the many so-called good-government bills has already cleared its final House committee and is headed to a final vote before all the reps. House Bill 1072 would make public the financial disclosure reports filed by the University of Hawaii Board of Regents. Civil Beat.

Lawmakers Seeking to Outlaw 'Conversion Therapy' in Hawaii. Civil Beat.

Hanabusa

U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa, who's trailing her Senate Democratic primary opponent U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz by 2-to-1 in fundraising, got some high-powered help Monday when she opened her campaign headquarters along Beretania Street in Chinatown. Hawaii News Now.

With the announcement Saturday of former state Sen. Russell Kokubun as Big Island campaign chairman, U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa increased her Hawaii Island presence in a Democratic battle for U.S. Senate that has captured national attention. West Hawaii Today.

The recent death of a 3-year-old girl who went into a coma after visiting the dentist’s office raises questions about the regulation of children's dentistry in Hawaii and whether the state is doing enough to prevent a similar incident from happening in the future. Civil Beat.

Three Hawaii resorts on Maui and the Big Island and two restaurants in Honolulu have earned AAA Five Diamond ratings for 2014, while 20 hotels and resorts and eight restaurants have been given with the organization’s Four Diamond rating. Pacific Business News.

People talk about Hawaii as a racial melting pot but for many years club bigotry was common. Civil Beat.

Consumers who selected a health or dental plan through the Hawai'i Health Connector by Wednesday are reminded about upcoming premium payment deadlines for coverage that begins Feb. 1. Maui News.

Oahu

The crack down on corruption at Halawa prison will likely mean more arrests. Hawaii News Now has learned that up to a dozen workers at the state's maximum security prison are being targeted. That comes on the heels of the recent arrest of prison guard James Sanders, who is accused of smuggling in crystal meth to prisoners.

North Shore residents affected by coastal erosion braced themselves Monday for what could be the largest ocean swell in a decade. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii tourism is expected to fly higher this year with the addition of scheduled nonstop service from Beijing to Honolulu. Air China, founded in 1988, brought its first group of 270 visitors, including top airline officials, travel agents and Chinese media, to Hawaii on Monday. Star-Advertiser.

The Army is studying a potential biofuel-capable power plant at Schofield Barracks. The public has an opportunity to provide input on alternatives, potential environmental impacts and other issues of concern that should be included in an environmental impact study. Public scoping meetings will be held Feb. 5 at Mililani Mauka Elementary School and Feb. 6 at Wahiawa District Park. Associated Press.

If you live on Oahu, you may not think it's that out of the ordinary. But Honolulu is the only county left in the state where you'll still see plastic bags used in grocery stores. An estimated tally finds 400 million plastic bags are used each year on the island of Oahu. KHON2.

Some city officials want to flip the "pave paradise, put up a parking lot" notion on its head by transforming on-street stalls into parks and plazas. Resolution 13-290, asking the Caldwell administration to establish a demonstration project for "parklets" around Oahu, was approved by the City Council's Transportation Committee on Thursday. The full Council will vote on it Jan. 29. Star-Advertiser.

The rhino beetle has surfaced on Oahu. They're ugly to look at, and what they do to palm trees is even uglier. KITV4.

A senior Pearl Harbor shipyard manager says he was falsely accused of espionage, taken off the job in March and has not been paid since July — even though an investigation cleared him of the "foreign influence" allegations. Gerald "Gino" Palermo, a former submariner who has worked in the shipyard since 1981, most recently in the "Code 930" mechanical group as a process manager, said he was cleared in June of allegations involving contact with several Chinese women and a Japanese female. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

A Hawaii House member from the Big Island is introducing five bills designed to keep hunting lands intact and promote the culture of hunting to children and others. Rep. Cindy Evans, North Kona and Kohala, said Friday that hunters should be recognized as conservationists who care about the land and wildlife. Associated Press.

It’s been a whirlwind first week for newly minted state Rep. Richard Creagan, who was appointed Jan. 10 to the District 5 post vacated by former state Rep. Denny Coffman. West Hawaii Today.

Drug reform in Hawaii will be the topic of two talk-story sessions on the Big Island. Hosted by the Drug Policy Action Group and Medical Cannabis Coalition of Hawaii, the meetings are intended to highlight marijuana-related legislation before the state Legislature and take input on ways to improve the Aloha State’s medical marijuana program, according to the groups. Tribune-Herald.

It’s been several years since a group of more than 20 Waikoloa residents gathered in the home of state Rep. Cindy Evans to ask for a library, but plans for the community’s first library are finally under way for 2014. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County Mayor Billy Kenoi joined 280 of the nation’s mayors at the U.S. Conference of Mayors 82nd Winter Meeting on Monday in Washington, D.C. Kenoi, chair of the Hawaii Conference of Mayors, will the meeting with Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell, Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa, and Kauai Mayor Bernard Carvalho. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Longtime politician and former Maui County Mayor James "Kimo" Apana has announced his intent to run for the state House District 9 seat, which covers parts of Central Maui and is now occupied by political newcomer Justin Woodson. Maui News.

When the Hawaii Center of Independent Living shuttered all five of its Neighbor Island offices in July, Nani Watanabe, an independent living specialist working at the Wailuku office, thought, "Here we go again." Maui News.

Public input is being sought on a Community Wildfire Protection Plan for the West Maui Community. The non-profit Hawaiʻi Wildfire Management Organization, in collaboration with the West Maui Fire Task Force, is hosting a series of meetings this month to gather comments and suggestions. Maui Now.

Kauai

The County of Kaua‘i Division of Purchasing has issued a professional services solicitation to procure pro bono legal representation in a lawsuit filed against the County relating to Ordinance 960, regulating pesticides and GMOs. Hawaii Reporter.

The Hawaii Department of Health is refuting a study that reportedly found high levels of metals found in sediment samples in and around Hanalei Bay. Dr. Roger Brewer, a senior geologist with the DOH’s Hazard Evaluation and Emergency Response Office, said there is no indication of any contamination in the samples. Garden Island.

Retired sugar industry executive and former Office of Hawaiian Affairs trustee Donald Bruce Cata­luna has died at the age of 77, leaving a legacy of service beyond the plantation. Born in Koloa, Kauai, Cata­luna worked almost every job on the sugar plantation, from taking care of the pack mules to managing some of the largest plantations in the islands. He spent his career with C. Brewer & Co., becoming one of the industry's first part-Hawaiian plantation managers. Star-Advertiser.

A storyteller, public servant, family man and instructor whose mind was a trap for details. Friends and family reflected on the life of Donald Bruce Cataluna on Monday after the retired sugar industry executive and Kauai native died Saturday from natural causes. Garden Island.

Waikiki International Marketplace shutting down, German tourist loses arm in Maui shark attack, federal agent murder trial goes to jury today, state plans juvenile justice reform, Hawaii council to mull ag tourism bill, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki International Marketplace (c) 2013 All Hawaii News

Hundreds of tenants at the soon-to-be redeveloped International Market Place in Waikiki recently received lease termination notices from landowner Queen Emma Land Co., which say that they must vacate the property by New Year’s Eve at 8 p.m., Pacific Business News has learned.

The State launched a bi-partisan, multi-departmental effort today to analyze and develop legislation to curb juvenile crime and reduce cost for taxpayers. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie, Hawaii Supreme Court Chief Justice Mark Recktenwald, and state lawmakers Sen. President Donna Mercado Kim and Rep. Mele Carroll Wednesday announced the launch of a bipartisan probe of the state’s flawed juvenile justice system. Star-Advertiser.

Innovative justice can create surprising bedfellows. On Wednesday, the Hawaii chief justice, Mark Recktenwald — a Republican appointee to the court — praised the Democratic governor, Neil Abercrombie, for supporting the state's 2-year-old justice reinvestment initiative. Civil Beat.

The goal of a new initiative launched today is to improve Hawaii's troubled juvenile justice system by reducing crime while cutting costs. Roughly 5,000 youth are currently incarcerated in Hawaii. According to experts, about 80% of them have a substance abuse problem. Hawaii News Now.

The nonprofit assigned to establishing Hawaii’s new health insurance marketplace expects to enroll as many as 300,000 island residents, including 100,000 who are uninsured, by the end of next year. Hawaii is one of 15 states setting up its own health insurance exchange to match qualified individuals to subsidized health plans. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Supreme Court, in a ruling that was thorough and reasoned, opted against invalidating a Maui zoning decision but ultimately sent a message that county and state officials should heed: The Sunshine Law means that the public must have access to government when key decisions are made. Star-Advertiser.

It is a challenge that farmers around the islands are very familiar with. The dramatic rise in electricity costs in Hawaii has been cutting into their profits — or adding to their losses — and increasing local food prices. This makes it difficult for them to compete with large, mainland and foreign farm operations. Civil Beat.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie has named two people to the Hawaiian Homes Commission, filling two of three vacancies on the nine-member panel that oversees the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands. Abercrombie appointed Wallace A. Ishibashi Jr. to represent East Hawaii County and Patricia W. Sheehan to the Kauai seat. Star-Advertiser.

State roundup for August 15. Associated Press.

Oahu

Tens of thousands of native sea urchins have been marshaled in the fight against invasive seaweeds threatening patches of reef in Kaneohe Bay. The sea urchins, Tripneustes gratilla or hawa‘e, serve as a biological control after most of the invasive seaweed is removed by a suction machine. Star-Advertiser.

Attorneys are expected to deliver closing arguments to jurors who will decide whether a federal agent is guilty of murder in a 2011 Waikiki shooting. Associated Press.

A jury of eight men and four women who heard 20 days of testimony through  more than a month will listen to closing arguments today before deliberating the fate of State Department special agent Christopher Deedy in the death of a Kailua man. Star-Advertiser.

After taking about a week off, the murder trial of Christopher Deedy is about to wrap up. Closing arguments are set for Thursday. KHON2.

The U.S. Army has finalized its plan to study marine resources at Makua Beach and surrounding areas. Hawaii Reporter.

Campbell High School teacher Corey Rosenlee encourages his students to break the rules. A social studies teacher, Rosenlee has his 11th and 12th graders playing "crazy robot." Civil Beat.

Hawaii
The U.S. Supreme Court could decide whether Hawaii Island gets to keep its fourth state Senate seat, after opponents of how the state redrew its legislative boundaries filed an appeal Friday with the nation’s highest court. West Hawaii Today.

A bill that would relax regulations for tourism operations on farm land is coming back before the Hawaii County Council’s Planning Committee. West Hawaii Today.

An effluent pump malfunction led to the discharge Tuesday afternoon of about 7,600 gallons of wastewater into the ocean from the Papaikou Wastewater Treatment Plant. Dora Beck, the county’s Wastewater Division chief, said the shoreline area near the facility’s outfall was closed “as a precaution” between Kekiwi Point and Waipahi Point. Tribune-Herald.

VIDEO: HI-SEAS crew emerges from isolated habitat dome. Big Island Video News.

Six researchers have spent the past four months living in a small dome on a barren Hawaii lava field at an elevation of 8,000 feet, trying to figure out what foods astronauts might eat on Mars and during deep-space missions. Associated Press.

Researchers have been living inside a remote habitat 8,000 feet atop Mauna Loa. They’re part of a NASA-funded study to simulate what it’s like to live on Mars. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui

A visitor from Germany was critically injured and lost her right arm in an apparent shark attack Wednesday afternoon at a Makena beach in South Maui. It was the fifth shark attack so far this year in Maui waters, where a jump in attacks was seen. Star-Advertiser.

A woman visiting from Germany lost her right arm in a shark attack at Palauea Beach in Wailea and was in critical condition at Maui Memorial Medical Center on Wednesday night after the second shark incident in two days off Maui. Maui News.

A 20-year-old woman from Germany remains hospitalized in critical condition, after her right arm was severed in a shark attack at Palauea Beach, also known as White Rock in Mākena, on Wednesday afternoon, county officials confirmed. Maui Now.

Officials have closed two miles of beaches in Makena following a shark attack on a snorkeler at Palauea Beach, also known as "White Rock." Hawaii News Now.

An arbitration award for Maui County police officers will cost $2.75 million more this fiscal year and a grand total of $26.6 million more over four years, according to Budget Director Sandy Baz. Maui News.

Maui County and the Maui Police Department have reached a monetary settlement with a woman, who was the victim of false arrest and imprisonment and extorted for sex by police officers in 2008, attorneys involved in the case said in a joint statement Tuesday. Maui News.

The state Board of Land and Natural Resources waived a $1,000 fine last month that the department had initially imposed on Maui Ocean Activities for "unauthorized commercial activities" conducted at Wailea Beach, according to a department spokeswoman. Maui News.

Kauai

More than 900 Kauai businesses and homeowners — especially oceanfront property owners — who benefit from federal flood insurance subsidies could see rate increases because of a law signed by President Barack Obama in 2012. Garden Island.

There was a time when Hanamaulu Beach Park was the crown jewel of Hanamaulu, a mostly residential community built to house sugar plantation workers from the Lihue Plantation decades ago. Not anymore, according to some area residents. In response to rampant crime and vandalism, the county will close the park from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. daily, starting Monday. Garden Island.

Kauai County's Liquor Control Commission has named acting director Gerald T. Rapozo as the permanent replacement for former director Eric Honma, who retired in April. Star-Advertiser.

Lanai

Silicon Valley tycoon Larry Ellison, the founder of Oracle, defended the National Security Agency’s controversial domestic surveillance on Tuesday, saying it was needed to protect the public from terrorism. “It’s great. It’s essential,” said Ellison during an interview with CBS News. Civil Beat.

Hawaii 'Mars' researchers come down to Earth, reapportionment foes appeal to U.S. Supreme Court, state spends $24M more on software bid, WWII vet fights for benefits, Honolulu asks feds for garage space, murder only choice for Deedy jurors, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Researchers emerge from HI-SEAS isolation dome (c) 2013 All Hawaii News

The Aloha State's unique and historic role in training for space exploration took another giant leap Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Six space researchers who spent four months in isolation in a bright white dome perched on the northern flank of Mauna Loa emerged Tuesday squinting into the sunshine and marveling at the clear air in their nostrils, the cool breeze caressing their flesh and the lava rock crunching underfoot. West Hawaii Today.

See photos of the crew and the habitat here

Hawaii's drawn-out process to settle on its political district boundaries isn't quite finished. On Friday, the plaintiffs who are suing the state Office of Elections over its 2011 reapportionment plan appealed their case to the U.S. Supreme Court. Civil Beat.

Advocates for immigration reform will bring half a birthday cake Thursday to the local offices of U.S. Reps. Colleen Hana­busa and Tulsi Gabbard, marking the anniversary of a federal policy offering undocumented youth a reprieve from deportation. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Department of Human Services awarded a $90 million contract for software to comply with the Affordable Care Act to a multi-billion dollar consulting firm, KPMG, rather than a smaller company, EngagePoint, that has previously secured similar jobs in other states. But EngagePoint's bid would have cost taxpayers $24 million less. Civil Beat.

A World War II veteran is fighting to save his Social Security benefits after allegedly being called a traitor for protesting an over payment claim. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii Supreme Court last week articulated an expansive view of the public’s “right to know” and the open meeting requirements of the state’s Sunshine Law that should make openness advocates giddy. Civil Beat.

A Hawaii scientist has found a fly species whose bulging middle legs bear a resemblance to the spinach-fueled forearms of the cartoon sailor Popeye. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

A multi-billion-dollar rail system faces another legal hurdle Thursday before the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco. Hawaii Reporter.

Honolulu's City Transportation Director Mike Formby has appealed to a top Federal Transit Administration official to allow hundreds of city employees to park in a $19 million new parking garage that is nearly empty. Hawaii News Now.

The Department of Veterans Affairs plans to break ground around November on a project to put in 7,000 more columbarium "niches" for cremated remains at Punchbowl cemetery. Star-Advertiser.

The solar photovoltaic industry, one of the fastest growing sectors in Hawaii, may be showing signs of slowing down — July was the third straight month showing a year-over-year decline in permits issued on Oahu, according to new statistics collected by Marco Mangelsdorf, president of Hilo-based ProVision Solar. Pacific Business News.

After being battered by government officials and the media, a nonprofit at the center of a scandal involving millions of dollars in federal grant funds is fighting back. Civil Beat.

The jury in State Department special agent Christopher Deedy's murder trial will not have the option of convicting him on the lesser charge of manslaughter. Star-Advertiser.

Tucked behind Barber's Point, newcomer Road and Highway Builders has taken the unprecedented move of shipping in their business: 55,000 tons of crushed rock every three months. KITV4.

Some Kailua residents are upset about a state landscaping project they were never told about. The state chopped down a bunch of trees on a heavily used road. KHON2.

A Waikiki hotel is receiving more than $119,000 as a reward for installing energy efficient air conditioning systems and lights. Associated Press.

Hawaii

In written responses to an online survey, Hawaii Police Chief Harry Kubojiri said he is aware of his department’s “need to improve our visibility and response time.” Tribune-Herald.

The state Narcotics Enforcement Administration is flying marijuana eradication missions on the Big Island through today, a Hawaii Police Department spokeswoman said Tuesday. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Public Radio’s decision to take over KAHU-FM means Ka‘u residents will end radio silence in the district. The Federal Communications Commission last week approved a transfer of ownership of the station from Ka‘u Community Radio Inc. to Hawaii Public Radio for the station, which airs at 91.7 FM. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Following in the footsteps of his predecessor, the late U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye, U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz pledged Monday to continue pursuing the goal of federal government recognition of Native Hawaiians as an indigenous group, similar to Native Americans and Alaskans. Maui News.

Home of Maui's alii, capital of the Hawaiian kingdom, rest stop for whaling ships, missionary headquarters, plantation town, popular visitor destination — "there are so many layers to Lahaina's story, from ancient times to the present," said Theo Morrison, executive director of the nonprofit Lahaina Restoration Foundation. "It's one of very few places that have been significant in all of Hawaii's major historical eras." Star-Advertiser.

Despite its boisterous name and affiliation with rock 'n' roll's Gene Simmons, owners of the proposed Rock & Brews restaurant Monday assured Paia residents that they are "one of the most family-friendly restaurants." Maui News.

Maui hotel occupancy for June rose 2.3 percentage points over last June to 69.7 percent, the only island in the state to register a gain for the month, according to Hospitality Advisors and Smith Travel Research. Maui News.

A new solar array at the Maui Coast Hotel in Kīhei is expected to generate enough energy annually to reduce electric costs by 30%, according to a company announcement. Maui Now.

Kauai

After two motions to withdrawal and amid threats of lawsuits Tuesday, the Kauai Planning Commission unanimously voted to contract a hearings officer for a contested case on the county’s request. The officer will hear a case regarding permits to accommodate tour boat activities at Black Pot Beach Park in Hanalei. Garden Island.

A retired car dealer who pleaded no contest to reckless endangerment in a deadly Kauai dam breach has billed the state $240,000. James Pflueger demanded the state pay for water it has been selling from his dam to local farmers for the past 20 years. Associated Press.

Last week’s incident involving a 74-year-old Kapaa resident operating a school bus under the influence was a first for Complex Area Superintendent Bill Arakaki. KPD reported Koth was not under the influence of alcohol. Garden Island.

Hawaii reapportionment upheld, federal judges oppose Honolulu rail route, race becomes issue in Deedy trial, Schatz and Hanabusa raise campaign cash, roving state reps get free trips, police raise to cost millions, Kauai missile range greets new commander, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

The Hawaii Reapportionment Commission’s justification in redrawing legislative districts so Hawaii Island received a fourth Senate seat embodied “rational, legitimate and substantial state policies,” a federal court panel said Thursday in dismissing a lawsuit challenging the new maps’ constitutionality. West Hawaii Today.

A federal three-judge panel has ruled in favor of the reapportionment plan Hawaii used during the most recent general election. Associated Press.

The 2012 reapportionment and redistricting plan does not violate the Equal Protection Clause of the U.S. Constitution, a three-judge panel of the U.S. District Court said in upholding its previous decision to deny an injunction sought by a group of voters that challenged the plan. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii does not have to count some 108,000 “nonpermanent residents" — mostly students and military — when drawing the boundaries of state districts, according to a federal court order issued today. Civil Beat.

A typhoon is barreling toward Taiwan where a group of Hawaii residents are visiting this week. Governor Neil Abercrombie was on that tour, but cut his trip short and raced home a day earlier to miss the storm. KHON2.

U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa opened her Democratic primary campaign against U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz with $500,000 in fundraising, her campaign announced Thursday, well below the mark set by Schatz. Star-Advertiser.

Gift disclosure statements filed last month by two state lawmakers revealed an unexpected and intriguing donor from half a world away: The Republic of Azerbaijan. The thriving oil-fueled nation just north of Iran flew Reps. Rida Cabanilla and Mark Takai halfway across the world for the U.S.-Azerbaijan Convention in May. Civil Beat.

State employees and legislators receiving free golf perks from companies that do business with the state have caught the attention of the Hawaii Ethics Commission. Associated Press.

CNBC has released its report America's Top States for Doing Business 2013. No surprise to business owners in Hawaii that the 50th state came in dead last in the annual ranking and is considered the worst place to do business in the country. Hawaii Reporter.

Occupancy dipped a little at Hawaii hotels in May, which hoteliers say will probably be their worst-performing month of the year. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii hotels experienced double-digit increases in occupancy during the week of July 4 when compared to the same week last year, while occupancy changes were mixed across the four major islands, according to the latest report from Hospitality Advisors LLC and Smith Travel Research. Pacific Business News.

Hiroshima Still Echoes in Hawaii Nearly 70 Years After Atomic Bomb Blast. Civil Beat.

State roundup for July 12. Associated Press.

Oahu

The federal District Court in Hawaii took renewed aim this week at the planned route for the city's rail line, saying it fails to meet the $5.26 billion project's stated purpose by ending at Ala Moana Center — a shopping mall — instead of the University of Hawaii's Manoa campus. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Chief U.S. District Judge Susan Oki Mollway has blasted the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation’s decision to run the proposed rail transit route to Ala Moana Center and urged the agency to reconsider an alternate route that would include a tunnel under Beretania Street. Pacific Business News.

All 11 of Hawaii’s federal judges have submitted a letter to The Federal Transit Administration and the city’s Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation that opponents of the city’s elevated steel rail project are calling a “bombshell” and “unprecedented.” Hawaii Reporter.

In a time of tight budgets, a new Hawaii police union contract will cost the City and County of Honolulu an additional $200 million over the next four years, according to a memo Mayor Kirk Caldwell sent to the city council earlier this week. Civil Beat.

An unanticipated expense in the arbitrated four-year contract awarded the police officers union will cost Oahu taxpayers about 36 percent more than city officials had originally anticipated. Star-Advertiser.

Prosecution raises race as issue in Deedy trial. Hawaii News Now.

Racial overtones surfaced during State Department special agent Christopher Deedy's murder trial Thursday with testimony from a McDonald's restaurant customer who supposedly was racially harassed and a fellow agent who testified that he told Deedy some "locals" don't like mainlanders. Star-Advertiser.

Audit of UH Culinary Arts programs uncovers lax accounting, oversight of food inventory. KITV4.

Hawaii

The USDA will spend $1 million to combat coffee berry borer on Hawaii Island, officials said Thursday morning. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii island coffee farmers are getting a $1 million boost from the federal government to help in their fight against the coffee berry borer, an invasive species that is "devastating" their operations. Star-Advertiser.

A spokesman for Mayor Billy Kenoi said the county will “have to find the money within the current year’s budget” to fund raises for police officers. Tribune-Herald.

The state Department of Human Services has suspended the operating license of a Kailua-Kona day care center for the second time this year, the state announced Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

There's been lots of discussion throughout the state about the need to have more farmers and to have more of our food grown right here at home. On Hawaii Island, there's a program to develop new farmers--and they're looking for candidates. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hilo nurse honored for efforts to curb infections. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Many of Maui's nonprofit social and human service agencies are facing uncertainty as they move into the fifth month of the federal budget cutbacks--known as "sequestration"--that went into affect on March 1. Maui Weekly.

Both Hawaiian Commercial and Sugar Company on Maui, and Monsanto Company on Molokaʻi were cited by the Hawaiʻi Department of Health Clean Air Branch after the agency received dust complaints, officials said. Maui Now.

Mayor Alan Arakawa recently visited Hangzhou, China, capital of eastern China's Zhejiang Province, where he attended the Second Annual World Cultural Forum from May 17 to 19. Maui Weekly.

After a morning of presiding over court cases, 2nd Circuit Judge Richard Bissen walked across the street from the courthouse to his doctor's office for his regular checkup. Just hours later, after undergoing an electrocardiogram at the doctor's office and being sent to Maui Memorial Medical Center for more testing to examine his heart activity, Bissen was taken to the operating room for emergency heart surgery. Maui News.

Kauai

In grand style, the Pacific Missile Range Facility welcomed its new commander — and bid farewell to his predecessor — Thursday inside the facility’s base operations hangar. Garden Island.

The three defendants named in the civil rights lawsuit filed by Kauai County Councilman Tim Bynum have filed motions to dismiss the case this week, according to county officials. Garden Island.

Attorneys Kyle Smith and Gerard Jervis, who represent the Kauai’s Westside community in an ongoing lawsuit against Pioneer Hi-Bred International, have compiled a list of chemicals used by the company. They will disclose the information during a public meeting beginning at 2 p.m. Saturday at Waimea Canyon Middle School. Garden Island.

A few hours after being posted online Wednesday afternoon, the “Save Coco Palms” petition was pulled without explanation. Garden Island.

Molokai

A year after a fire destroyed Hotel Molokai’s kitchen , Hula Shores restaurant and bar is one step closer to repairing and reopening its dining facilities. Hotel Molokai was approved for repairs at the June 26 Molokai Planning Commission meeting, securing their ability to begin construction soon. Molokai Dispatch.

Kahoolawe

Funds for the cleanup and restoration of Kahoolawe are expected to run out in 2016, yet only 13 percent of the job has been done, according to a report issued Thursday by the state legislative auditor. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii hotels raking it in; Legislature mulls Medicaid gap, minimum wage, reapportionment, rock climbing; Hirono's gay joke goes viral; Hawaii County seeks to buy more land; tsunami debris washes up on Maui, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii hotel pool (c) 2013 All Hawaii News

Hawaii’s hotel industry kicked off 2013 in record-setting fashion, reaching new highs for average room rates and total revenue. Star-Advertiser.

The House Judiciary Committee is planning to consider a bill today to include all military members when drawing district lines for state Senate and House seats. Associated Press.

Roughly 21,000 people in Hawaii who were previously covered under Medicaid will need to buy their own health insurance once President Barack Obama’s sweeping federal health care overhaul takes effect next year, the chief executive of the Hawaii Primary Care Association told a state Senate committee Monday. Associated Press.

Allowing Hawaii residents who earn up to 200 percent of the federal poverty level to return to the state’s Medicaid program could save more than $20 million in health care costs, health care providers told state senators Monday. West Hawaii Today.

The state House of Representatives’ Labor and Public Employment Committee will vote today on a bill that would raise the state’s minimum wage by $2 over the course of two years, with the first increase in July 2014. Garden Island.

One third of the tsunami warning buoys that Hawaii and others rely on for advance notice of impending waves aren't working or sending data, federal officials say. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Gets a C on Transparency Report Card. Hawaii Reporter.

In 1995, the Hawaii Legislature passed a bill that made secret the names of county police officers who had been suspended for misconduct. Less than two years later, the Hawaii Office of Information Practices wrote a formal opinion that undercut that law, saying the public has a fundamental right know about cops who were getting in trouble. Civil Beat.

A state lawmaker is now launching Senate hearings into whether the Department of Public Safety is capable of keeping inmates like Cyril Chung safe. Hawaii News Now.

Dangers at Hawaii's correctional facilities are hurting not just the inmates involved, but also are racking up costs for taxpayers. KHON2.

A student dressed as an Oompa Loompa from "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory" was seen walking the state Capitol halls Monday, encouraging legislators to limit youth access to tobacco products. Star-Advertiser.

The state Legislature hit halftime last week, sealing the fate of bills that failed to pass the House or Senate by mid-session. Tribune-Herald.

The Department of Defense could start furloughing civilian employees April 26, including 19,000 people in Hawaii. Pacific Business News.

Federal budget cuts affect military jet flyovers. Hawaii Air National Guard forced to trim Memorial Day flybys. KITV4.

State Legislature Focus on Rock Climbing. Hawaii Public Radio.

Months after cracking a joke on the campaign trail, that joke has launched Hawaii's newest U.S. senator to ‘viral status' in the world of social media. Hawaii News Now.

State roundup for March 12. Associated Press.

Oahu

The USS Freedom, an aluminum-and-steel warship that will chart the Navy's future in the shallows where shipping and people are prevalent, pulled into Pearl Harbor on Monday on its way to history as the first ship in its class to head to Singapore on rotational deployments. Star-Advertiser.

The long-awaited Ewa Mahiko Gym opened to park-goers over the weekend, more than 18 months behind schedule and $600,000 over budget. Star-Advertiser.

Graduate students at UH Manoa haven’t received a raise in nearly a decade. This low pay combined with Hawaii’s high cost of living is making life for graduate students in Hawaii a struggle … forcing many to get second jobs to supplement their income. Hawaii Public Radio.

A report issued last month by the city's Department of Facility Maintenance pinpoints which Honolulu City Council districts have the worst roads on Oahu. KITV4.

Down to Earth Organic & Natural said its five stores in Hawaii will begin requiring foods with ingredients containing genetically-modified organisms to be labeled as such by 2018, following Whole Foods Market's announcement last week that it will do the same. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

Having acquired almost 1,000 acres for protection since its inception in 2006, the Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission is asking the public to nominate more parcels for consideration. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii Farmers Union is asking state legislators to restore $1 million to fund research into the coffee berry borer situation on Hawaii Island. West Hawaii Today.

Stop calling it "the Big Island." That's the request of the Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau, the top marketing arm of the state's Hawaii Tourism Authority. Civil Beat.

The Mokupapapa Discovery Center in downtown Hilo is getting a new home just in time for its 10th anniversary in June. Big Island Now.

The Three Fat Pigs and The Thirsty Wolf, a new restaurant and gastropub by 24-year-old Waimea chef Philip “Ippy” Aiona, is a foodie fairy tale come to life. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Council committees on Maui are finalizing items this week before the Fiscal Year 2014 Budget Session begins at the end of the month. Maui Now.

The state Senate has approved a bill to establish a daily, around-the-clock special emergency services medical response vehicle based at Maalaea, but the amended version includes no specified funding and wouldn't go into effect until 2050. Maui News.

A refrigerator-sized piece of ocean debris, possibly from the Japanese earthquake/tsunami two years ago, was removed by helicopter from the Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve shoreline Monday. Maui News.

Kauai

A trial date has been set for former state Rep. Roland Sagum III, accused of stealing rocks from a heiau on Kauai. Star-Advertiser.

What do they wish you to do? The question was posed by the Rev. Noriaki Fujimori of the Waimea Higashi Hongwanji Sunday during the Japan Disaster Memorial Service and Concert, in memory of the 2011 tsunami in Japan. Garden Island.

Mainland tourists returning to Hawaii, reapportionment lawsuit headed to court, spike in shark attacks, Oahu beach smoking ban advances, new AD to be named at UH, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii tourists returning (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Despite economic uncertainty and lagging consumer confidence, North American leisure and business travelers are expected to make more trips to Hawaii next year. Star-Advertiser.

A lawsuit over the 2011 drawing of political boundaries that resulted in Hawaii Island getting a fourth state senator will be heard next month in U.S. District Court. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii-born President Barack Obama recognized retiring U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka today during the president's remarks at the Tribal Nations Conference in Washington D.C. Star-Advertiser.

After reviewing a consultant's study that some hoped would be the silver bullet to bring down soaring student transportation costs, state lawmakers left a legislative briefing Wednesday still wondering how much money the Department of Education will be able to save through the recommended policy changes. Civil Beat.

Hawaii's elderly may be victims of the upcoming congressional budget deal, according to an analysis done by the American Association of Retired People. Civil Beat.

University of Hawaii officials say they expect to announce the name of a new athletics director either late Thursday or Friday. Pacific Business News.

Wil Okabe, president of the 13,500-member Hawai‘i State Teachers Association, issued a statement Wednesday in response to the state’s definition of “work to rule.” Garden Island.

For the past two years and four months, a detachment of the Montana Air National Guard has been watching over Hawaii’s skies as part of an air defense “alert” mission, with two pilots ready to fly 24 hours a day, seven days a week in the event of an emergency. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Prohibitions on smoking are becoming more commonplace around the world and a ban on lighting up at popular Honolulu beach parks would have little impact on tourism, supporters of such a measure told the Honolulu City Council on Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Newly re-elected Honolulu Prosecutor Keith Kaneshiro says he's beefing up his staff dedicated to fighting elderly abuse in Hawaii and laying the groundwork to put pimps behind bars. Civil Beat.

Within days of his election in 2010, Mayor Peter Carlisle traveled to Washington, D.C., to meet with Federal Transit Administration officials to pledge support for the previous administration's rail transit project. Star-Advertiser.

A $200 million high-rise condominium project that would create 635 affordable homes at the former Hono­lulu Advertiser property in Kakaako was unanimously approved Wednesday by the Hawaii Community Development Authority. Star-Advertiser.

A $50,000 donation to the University of Hawaii Cancer Center from UH President M.R.C.Greenwood and her longtime partner, Patricia Johnson, has earned the couple prominent recognition at the front entrance of the new center. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii

The Big Island is continuing to have problems activating all of its 71 Civil Defense sirens following the Oct. 27 tsunami warning. Tribune-Herald.

A proposal to make West Hawaii the lone area in the state to ban scuba spearfishing sparked contentious debate at a public hearing in Kona that was still going at press time Wednesday. West Hawaii Today.

Biomass fuel could eventually replace oil at one of Hawaii Electric Light Co.’s power plants, HELCO President Jay Ignacio said Tuesday. Tribune-Herald.

A handful of Hawaii Island residents brought suggestions for Hawaii Electric Light Co. to consider as the company pursues a state-mandated Integrated Resource Plan. West Hawaii Today.

The Windward Planning Commission today will reconsider the fate of a popular performing arts center in Kalapana Seaview Estates. Tribune-Herald.

The Hoppa-on, Hoppa-off bus was hoppin’ along for a few days last week until the lack of a pesky permit put the brakes on the operation. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

A 2nd Circuit judge on Wednesday granted a request by the state Attorney General's Office to have Wailuku Main Street Association and its board chairman, Thomas Cannon, to comply with a subpoena to turn over various association documents as well as for Cannon to appear for sworn testimony. Maui News.

The Wailuku Main Street Association is refusing to comply with an additional subpoena, calling it "unreasonable and oppressive" and adding that a state attorney is just "fishing" for information to "harm us." Maui News.

Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa will be among the dignitaries present during the Hawaii Presidential Center Inaugural Gala on Jan. 19 in Washington, D.C., according to an announcement. Maui News.

Kauai

A shark bit a 60-year-old surfer off Kauai’s west shore Wednesday, raising the attack total for Hawaii to 11 this year, an exceptionally active period for the ocean predators. Star-Advertiser.

Many award recipients honored Tuesday during a Transportation Security Administration ceremony were with the organization when it rolled out at the Lihu‘e Airport, said Monika Mali of the TSA. Garden Island.

Hawaii filing deadline reveals instant winners, paired incumbents; Supreme Court justice named; school bus plan stalls; Kaiser Permanente named safest hospital; all out for transit of Venus; more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Former state Sen. Lorraine Inouye checks election maps (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Democratic candidates for the Hawaii Legislature are fielding more than double the number of Republican candidates in the 2012 elections — 121 to 56. Civil Beat.

Incumbents are facing off in redrawn districts. Several Democratic leaders are competing against either each other or former lawmakers. Star-Advertiser.

Statewide candidate filing report from the Office of Elections.

Citing his reputation as a "judge's judge," Gov. Neil Abercrombie appointed Circuit Judge Richard Pollack on Tuesday to a 10-year term on the Hawaii Supreme Court. Star-Advertiser.

Circuit Judge Richard Pollack has been appointed to the Hawaii Supreme Court by Gov. Neil Abercrombie. Hawaii Reporter.

Judge Richard W. Pollack has been nominated to the Hawaii Supreme Court by Gov. Neil Abercrombie. Pacific Business News.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie wants to change the state law that requires Hawaii judges and justices to retire at age 70. Civil Beat.

More than half of Hawaii hospitals were rated average or worse in a new patient-safety survey that already is under attack by the industry. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii school board members on Tuesday rejected the Department of Education's plan to plug a $17 million shortfall for student transportation services that includes eliminating 190 buses. Civil Beat.

The Board of Education is asking schools Superintendent Kathryn Matayoshi to dig deeper to cover a shortfall for student transportation and wants service cuts to affect no more than 4,300 student riders. Star-Advertiser.

A proposal from the state Department of Education for the state Board of Education to discontinue certain school bus routes hit a wall Tuesday, and will now be revisited in an upcoming board meeting. Garden Island.

Yesterday the Islands provided one of the best places to view the rare Transit of Venus. Hawaii Public Radio.

The daylit side of the world paused Tuesday to mark the transit of Venus across the sun, an event that won’t be seen again for 105 years. Tribune-Herald.

Hundreds of people seized their last chance in a lifetime to watch Earth’s sister planet do its slow march across the sun Tuesday in Waimea. West Hawaii Today.

Oahu

The Honolulu City Council plans to hammer out operating and capital improvement spending plans Wednesday, and there are several items that could stir debate. Civil Beat.

The city's "white bin" program, which allows schools and clubs to earn money for programs by inviting neighbors to dump their recyclables at specially marked containers, will continue under the City Council's $1.95 billion operating budget up for a final vote today. Star-Advertiser.

For the second straight budget, a sewage treatment project is a major source of friction between Mayor Peter Carlisle and the Honolulu City Council. Civil Beat.

Officials said Tuesday that federal firefighters acted quickly Monday to contain a small brush fire at Naval Magazine Lua­lua­lei that got away from firefighters and grew to a 1,200-acre brush fire that likely affected endangered plants, possibly damaged structures and forced Wai­anae Valley residents to evacuate two days in a row. Star-Advertiser.

Former award-winning journalist Gregg Takayama today filed as a Democratic candidate for the State House representing Pearl City’s new 34th District (Momilani-Pacific Palisades). Hawaii Reporter.

Experts predict fewer storms than usual in the Central Pacific during this year's hurricane season. That is good news for Hawaii, but emergency response teams are still preparing for a potential disaster. Hawaii News Now.

Kahala residents say they've been noticing more homeless people living on the beach and squatters taking over vacant mansions. KHON2.

Hawaii
The election is over before it even began for two Big Island state representatives and two County Council members who won their respective races as of the 4:30 p.m. Tuesday filing deadline. West Hawaii Today.

Seven East Hawaii school bus routes affecting a total of 158 students are likely to be discontinued this academic year. Tribune-Herald.

The U.S. Commerce Department is awarding a $3 million grant to the Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaii Authority to support the development of alternative energy sources and biotechnology. Associated Press.

Family members cried as a federal judge told Cannibus Minister Roger Christie that he'd have to remain behind bars. Hawaii News Now.

Big Island single-family home and condominium sales were down slightly in May, but median sale prices for both rose when compared to the same period last year, according to statistics from Hawaii Information Service. Pacific Business News.

Maui

A County Council committee Monday approved removing eight sites in Makena from protected area designation, after the Planning Department cited the potential for legal issues and county reimbursements for the impediments to development with the designation. Maui News.

More than a handful of residents and property owners of Anuhea Place near the Kulamalu Town Center in Pukalani asked County Council committee members Monday to place their land in a rural growth boundary so that they could freely put up homes for themselves and their children. Maui News.

A remake of the 1980 movie classic, “The Blue Lagoon,” which was filmed partially on Maui, is scheduled to air on June 16th on the Lifetime Network. Maui Now.

Kauai

Single-family home sale prices dropped 19 percent on Kauai in May, to a median price of $483,750. But condominium prices were up 22 percent to $264,500 last month when compared to the same period last year, according to statistics from Hawaii Information Service Inc. Pacific Business News.

The Hawai‘i National Guard and a unit from Nevada are on Kaua‘i this week for the Makani Pahili 2012 disaster communications exercise in support of the County of Kaua‘i and County Civil Defense. Garden Island.

Federal court denies reapportionment injunction, Hawaii Democrats work behind the scenes to kill party neutrality resolution, Arizona satisfied with Obama birth certificate, Abercrombie requires union labor on all state projects, Oahu tops in traffic jams, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

U.S. District Court Honolulu

Hawaii elections will proceed as scheduled this year as a federal panel of judges Tuesday refused to intervene and stop the state from moving forward with a reapportionment and redistricting plan approved in March. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's elections can move ahead as planned under political boundaries that exclude nonresident military personnel, a panel of federal judges ruled Tuesday. Civil Beat.

Three federal judges say a constitutional challenge to Hawaii’s redistricting plan isn’t strong enough to go forward and risk jeopardizing the state’s primary and general elections this year. Associated Press.

A three-judge panel, which included U.S. District Judges Michael Seabright and Leslie Kobayashi from Hawaii and U.S. Circuit Judge Margaret McKeown from San Diego, has refused to grant a motion for preliminary injunction that would have forced the Hawaii Reapportionment Commission to redraw its 2012 plan so it included 108,000 non permanent resident military and their dependents and non permanent resident students. Hawaii Reporter.

In a 55 page decision, a three-judge panel of the U.S. District Court in Honolulu has ruled against a group of plaintiffs who had sought to delay Hawaii's upcoming elections over a constitutional challenge. KITV4.

See the reapportionment decision here.

The state of Hawaii has verified President Barack Obama's birth records to Arizona's elections chief after a nearly three-month back and forth that Arizona officials said could have ended without the incumbent's name on its November ballot. Associated Press.

A resolution demanding party neutrality until after the primary elections will be debated at the Democratic Party of Hawaii convention this weekend is causing quite a stir among party members – even in the highest political circles. Hawaii Reporter.

Candidates running as Democrats in Hawaii this year must pay $500 a minute to address party delegates at the annual convention this week. Civil Beat.

A new poll shows Ed Case and Mazie Hirono neck-and-neck in the Democratic primary for U.S. Senate. KHON2.

The fight to represent the Democratic Party in the upcoming November elections for Hawai‘i’s second U.S. Senate seat is stuck on a technical tie, according to the latest poll results by a private company. Garden Island.

Former U.S. Rep. Ed Case said Tuesday that U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono has not adequately outlined her public-policy positions and is avoiding debates in their Democratic primary for U.S. Senate. Star-Advertiser.

Republican Rep. Barbara Marumoto, the second most senior member of the state House of Representatives behind Speaker Calvin Say, will not return to the chamber after her term expires this year. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie issued a directive to use project labor agreements for major state projects. KHON2.

Scientists at the University of Hawaii have created a new type of anti-cancer drug that's taken orally. Hawaii News Now.

An environmental group on Tuesday filed a lawsuit against the National Marine Fisheries Service to force a decision on whether it will put a population of rare dolphins living near Hawaii on the endangered species list. Associated Press.

Oahu

Honolulu had the worst traffic congestion among American cities in 2011, with drivers wasting an average of 58 hours stuck in gridlock, according to a study released Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

City attorneys worry that a bill designed to ban commercial activity at two beach parks in Kailua might violate the separation of powers doctrine and be vulnerable to legal challenges. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu mayoral candidate Kirk Caldwell is calling for a "critical last look" at the downtown and Kaka­ako portions of the city rail proj­ect, including possible last-minute design revisions to answer residents' concerns about the elevated rail guideway. Star-Advertiser.

Former acting mayor and longtime rail proponent Kirk Caldwell called reporters to his Nimitz Highway headquarters Tuesday afternoon for what his campaign promised would be a "major statement" on the proposed 20-mile system. Civil Beat.

Eight years of continuous war in Iraq and Afghanistan are over for the 3rd Marine Regiment's 3,000 Marines at Kaneohe Bay, officials said. Star-Advertiser.

Surveillance videos at a Waikiki McDonald's restaurant show a State Department special agent identifying himself as a law enforcement officer before he was attacked by the man he's charged with murdering, the special agent's lawyer said Tuesday in urging a state judge to make public the video and defense court documents. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu city officials have repeatedly fined Kahala's most famous real estate investor for violations at his Kahala Avenue properties. Civil Beat.

State officials on Tuesday granted the developer of a proposed 12,000 home master-planned community in Ewa extra time to file legal documents, pushing back what was supposed to be a major decision on the controversial development's fate. Civil Beat.

Hoku Corp. said Tuesday that it halted construction at its Idaho polysilicon plant last month and laid off 100 employees there as it explores “restructuring alternatives.” Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

Drilling at Puna Geothermal Venture is almost done. Tribune-Herald.

Nearly 9,400 acres of pristine Paauilo ranch land is up for sale at an asking price of $16.8 million. Tribune-Herald.

Council Chairman Dominic Yagong is taking up the cause of local game hunters who are feeling increasingly pushed aside as wilderness is fenced off and game animals are shot from the sky. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County’s Mass Transit Agency estimates that its $1 bus fare enacted last July will raise about $500,000 this fiscal year, down slightly from original projections. Tribune-Herald.

Even if the trend of a quiet Central Pacific hurricane season continues in 2012, forecasters are again cautioning residents not to be complacent. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui County Mayor Alan Arakawa is set to sign a bill establishing new regulations for short-term rentals. Maui News.

Community groups and a South Maui resident have filed appeals with state and county agencies to put the brakes on two megamall shopping complexes planned in Kihei, mauka of the Piilani Highway-Kaonoulu Street intersection. Maui News.

The state Land Use Commission voted 6-1 Monday to approve a reclassification of a little more than 545 acres in Central Maui to make way for A&B Properties' plans to develop the Wai'ale master-planned community. Maui News.

Maui County Council Member Mike White filed nomination papers Monday for re-election to his Makawao, Haiku and Paia residency seat. Maui News.

Kauai

After reviewing the results of water quality tests on Kalapaki Beach over the last four days, state Department of Health officials have approved a partial reopening of the beach. Garden Island.

Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. announced Tuesday the appointment of Frederick Kamuela Cobb-Adams, a former executive with the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL), as the county’s new housing director effective June 1. Garden Island.