Drier climate threatens Hawaii forest birds, Honolulu police conquering rape kit backlog, Damien band director fired over girl's sex assault allegations, telescopes pro and con, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Iiwi PC:Lucas Behnke USGS

Drier climate seen as threat to isle forest birds. A new study by U.S. Forest Service researchers suggests that the impact of climate-related changes on native Hawaiian birds may be even more substantial than previously understood. Star-Advertiser.

Immigrants add billions to Hawaii’s economy, report says. As Hawaii continues to be a thorn in the side for President Donald Trump and his immigration policies, a new report underscores how much immigrants mean to the islands. Star-Advertiser.

GOP tax plan would hit isle taxpayers hard. The evolving picture of the Republicans’ proposed changes to the federal tax code does not bode well for many of Hawaii’s taxpayers, with lawmakers considering reducing or even abolishing some deductions that are particularly important to local tax filers. Star-Advertiser.

As Republicans on Capitol Hill refine their plans on tax reform, one point under consideration is eliminating a tax credit for electric vehicles. And that would be likely to have a broad impact here in Hawaii. Hawaii Public Radio.

The plaintiffs in a long-running class-action lawsuit over long waits for Department of Hawaiian Home Lands homestead lots have scored what they consider another crucial victory in court. Star-Advertiser.

Isle homeless advocates cite gains in cutting numbers needing shelter. Despite lingering encampments across the state, social workers and state and city officials insist Hawaii is making progress reducing the nation’s highest per capita rate of homelessness. Star-Advertiser.

Allegiant Air ends service to Hawaii. The discount carrier, which at one time served Hawaii on 10 routes from nine mainland cities, quietly ended its lone remaining service with a flight from Honolulu to Las Vegas on Oct. 28. Star-Advertiser.

Alexander & Baldwin Inc. has created a new image for its nickname, A&B, to go along with its new structure as a real estate investment trust. Star-Advertiser.

Commentary: Congressional race will reveal Democratic Party’s divide and future course. The uncertainty and disunity within the dominant Hawaii Democratic Party is showing up as the race to replace U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa in Hawaii’s 1st Congressional District begins. Star-Advertiser.

Commentary: Why Would Anyone Want To Run For Congress? Maybe because it pays well, there are lots of perks and it’s possible — just possible — to do some good. Civil Beat.

Oahu

The Honolulu Police Department says that by the end of November it will clear a backlog of nearly 1,400 sexual assault evidence kits, some dating back more than two decades, and will send out all of about 200 more recent kits in the department’s possession for testing by the end of the year. Star-Advertiser.

Recycle Or Incinerate? The Battle Of The Blue Bins. Burning more discards could save money as recycling gets more expensive, but environmentalists say it’s the cost of caring for the planet. Civil Beat.

"Complete Streets" solutions needed for Honolulu's urban core. Aiming to make the streets of Honolulu's urban core safer, the city is turning to the community for their input. KITV.

City invites community input on Complete Streets solutions. The city wants to hear from you on how to make streets safer. KHON2.

UH Cancer Center projects an end to budget deficit. The University of Hawaii Cancer Center is projecting a balanced budget this year for the first time since opening its $130 million Kakaako facility in 2013. Star-Advertiser.

Uber's food delivery platform UberEATS to launch in Hawaii this month. Ridesharing platform Uber confirmed to Pacific Business News that it will launch its food delivery service program, UberEATS, in Honolulu on Nov. 15. Pacific Business News.

Former Damien Memorial band director shocked by sexual assault charges. The Damien Memorial School band director who lost his job after his arrest last week for investigation of sexually assaulting a girl says he is stunned by the charges.Star-Advertiser.

Damien Memorial School band director fired after being charged with sexual assault. The president and CEO of Damien Memorial School released a statement Sunday that the band director has been fired after being arrested and charged on eight counts of sexual assault. KITV.

Tribute marks 100th anniversary of Queen Liliuokalani's death. A large crowd marked the 100th anniversary of the death of Hawaii's last reigning monarch. The tribute to Queen Liliuokalani took place in front of the statue of the beloved monarch near Iolani Palace. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

One mauna, many perspectives: Native Hawaiians discuss spiritual, cultural connections to Maunakea. Before it became known as the world’s premier place for astronomy, Maunakea had long inspired reverence. Tribune-Herald.

Special section: Celebrating 50 years of astronomy on Maunakea. Tribune-Herald.

Army seeks public comment on Pohakuloa cultural resources. The U.S. Army Garrison, Pohakuloa, is seeking public comments on its plan to manage cultural resources on its 132,000-acre training site tucked in the saddle between Maunakea and Mauna Loa. West Hawaii Today.

The East Hawaii Regional Board of Directors of Hawaii Health Systems Corp. showed Puna community members Thursday night that the district’s health care is one of its top priorities. Tribune-Herald.

The ongoing legal dispute between Big Island Dog Rescue and Hawaii Island Humane Society showed little signs of resolution last week as both parties were unwilling to compromise on any of the motions brought before a 3rd Circuit Court judge. West Hawaii Today.

Lending a hand: Nonprofit initiative offers path out of debt spiral. West Hawaii Today.

To celebrate a queen: Liliuokalani memorial service features powerful portrayal of beloved monarch. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui Committee to Hear From Experts on Sunscreen and Coral Reef Damage. The Maui County Council’s Infrastructure and Environmental Management Committee will receive presentations from two toxicologists about the effects of oxybenzone and octinoxate on Maui’s coral reefs and marine life at its Nov. 13 meeting. Maui Now.

Couch considering a run for state House. Former Maui County Council Member Don Couch appears to be making a run for political office again, eyeing the South Maui state House of Representatives seat now held by Rep. Kaniela Ing, according to Couch’s campaign website and state documents. Maui News.

Community members offer ideas for state lands in W. Maui. Charging nonresidents a user fee, restoring native habitats and installing more portable toilets were some ideas floated at a community open house Wednesday night on the future of state lands in the Honolua Bay and Lipoa Point areas. Maui News.

Maui residents say A&B is wasting water its diverting from streams. Some Maui residents say a big corporation is wasting water that it's diverting from streams and that the state needs to take action. Hawaii News Now.

BLNR approves A&B’s continued E. Maui stream water diversions. Company will have access to up to 80 million gallons daily for a year. Maui News.

Maui residents can enjoy hotel amenities for a fee. Maui residents will soon have the opportunity to live like hotel guests in Wailea, the state’s top luxury market — for a price. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

Lori Stitt joins Malama Mahaulepu. Malama Mahaulepu is welcoming a new outreach and project coordinator, and advancing a new survey — all at the same time. Garden Island.

Navy rescues Honolulu women after months lost at sea, homegrown pot tainted, audit says burning Honolulu recyclables cheaper than recycling them, vacation rentals irk neighbors, Kauai mayor wannabes line up, rail begins airport leg, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Women lost at sea rescued, courtesy U.S. Navy

After five months adrift, two women are saved by the U.S. Navy. Two Honolulu women and their dogs survived powerful storms, shark attacks and bouts of hopelessness while drifting at sea for five months aboard a 50-foot sailboat that broke down during their sail from Hawaii to Tahiti. Star-Advertiser.

U.S. Navy

Two Honolulu women and their dogs have been rescued after being lost at sea for months while trying to sail from Hawaii to Tahiti. Associated Press.

Two Hawaii women and their dogs have been rescued after spending months lost at sea in the Pacific Ocean. The pair, Jennifer Appel and Tasha Fuiava, survived off of water purifiers and a year’s worth of dry food, like pasta and oatmeal. Hawaii News Now.

The U.S. Navy released a video of its recent rescue at sea. A pair of Hawaii women and their dogs were stuck on board their sailboat in the Pacific Ocean. KITV.

Growth in visitor numbers outpaces spending. Arrivals last month increased 5 percent year-over-year to 701,833 visitors, and spending rose to $1.2 billion — up nearly 2 percent from September 2016, according to preliminary statistics released Thursday by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Star-Advertiser.

Visitor spending increased 7.1 percent to a total of $12.56 billion through the third quarter of 2017 in Hawaii, according to preliminary statistics released Thursday by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Pacific Business News.

Visitors to the Hawaiian Islands spent a total of $12.5 billion in the first three quarters of 2017, an increase of 7.1 percent compared to the same period last year, according to preliminary statistics released Thursday by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Garden Island.

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Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen is expected to arrive today for a short visit on her first official trip to Hawaii on what is technically labeled a “transit.”  Star-Advertiser.

Vigilance required for public pensions to reach full funding. 9.4 percent of Hawaii residents are part of the state Employees’ Retirement System. Maui News.

Cannabis Curriculum a Grassroots Effort in Hawaii. The number of patients registered under Hawai’i’s medical cannabis program has grown by 54 percent since 2015. Hawaii Public Radio.

Most homegrown marijuana tainted, lab reports. Most of the homegrown pakalolo tested by Hawaii’s first medical marijuana laboratory is tainted with pesticides and other dangerous contaminants. Star-Advertiser.

Human remains stolen from burial caves in Hawaii more than a century ago are finally returning to their resting place. Hawaii News Now.

High Surf Warning issued as waves of 35 feet forecast. A High Surf Warning has been issued for north- and west-facing shores of Oahu, Niihau, Kauai and Molokai, and north-facing shores of Maui. Hawaii News Now.

Southwest Airlines officials say starting service to Hawaii is now their primary focus, interisland flying is being seriously considered and they don’t plan on using red-eye flights from the mainland to the islands. Star-Advertiser.

Island Air filled two key employment positions Thursday, even as its long-term fate remains up in the air in federal Bankruptcy Court. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Audit: Honolulu Could Save Millions By Burning Recyclables For Energy. Sorting and selling recyclables hauled away in blue bins no longer makes economic sense, the audit found. Civil Beat.

Auditor urges city to get some cash for its trash. Many of the recyclables collected in Honolulu residents’ blue bins could eventually wind up at the city’s HPOWER plant in Kapolei instead of overseas, based on the recommendations of a new city auditor’s report. Star-Advertiser.

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After hearing more than four hours of sometimes emotional testimony from supporters and detractors of vacation rentals, the City Council Zoning and Housing Committee on Thursday voted to advance four proposals aimed at addressing the complicated issue. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council is once again trying to get control of the growing vacation rental industry and crack down on illegal units. Hawaii News Now.

A battle over vacation rentals and illegal bed-and-breakfasts is brewing before the city council. On Thursday, members of the Committee on Zoning and Housing took up four resolutions that addressed the issue. KHON2.

Operators, neighbors clash over plans to curb vacation rentals. The online booking platforms for vacation rentals have created issues in neighborhoods no one ever expected. KITV.

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First, it was a law that bans lying down on city sidewalks. Now a city councilman wants to take it a step further, by making it illegal for people to lie down at bus stops. KHON2.

HPD Corruption Case: Who Is Alison Lee Wong? The feds say Honolulu prosecutor Katherine Kealoha used the alias of “Alison Lee Wong” to help carry out alleged crimes. Civil Beat.

Years in the making: How prosecutors built their case against the Kealohas. It's the biggest abuse of power case in modern Hawaii history. Hawaii News Now.

Former Honolulu Prosecutor Peter Carlisle: Fed's Case Against the Kealohas Solid. Honolulu’s former police chief and his city deputy prosecutor wife pleaded not guilty to federal charges Friday. Hawaii Public Radio.

Rail work kicks off airport leg. The joint venture Shimmick, Traylor and Granite is being paid $875 million to build Phase 3 of the 20-mile Honolulu rail line. Hawaii News Now.

Rail pillars are going up for the airport section of Honolulu's Rail Transit Project. Contractors used heavy machinery to drill its first holes for the 5-plus mile stretch of that phase of the project, which runs from Aloha Stadium to Middle Street. KITV.

Star-Advertiser Employees Rally To Protest Layoffs. More than 30 newsroom staffers -- about a quarter of the staff -- have lost their jobs at Hawaii’s biggest newspaper in the past year amid ongoing contract negotiations. Civil Beat.

A restaurant in the Shirokiya Japan Village Walk at Ala Moana Center was shut down for interfering with a state Department of Health inspection to follow up on food safety violations. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Department of Health Sanitation Branch has posted a red “closed” placard at Mazesoba Ono-ya inside Ala Moana Center for refusing to cooperate during a follow-up health inspection to correct eight outstanding critical food safety violations. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Construction continues on the former Sports Authority storefront at Prince Kuhio Plaza, with new tenants — T.J. Maxx and Petco — expected to open early next year, according to the mall. Tribune-Herald.

Lava Inundation Zones Mapped On Mauna Loa. Mauna Loa is not erupting, but scientists with the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory are watching it closely. Big Island Video News.

Kua O Ka La students learning about ‘what’s happening in their ocean’ by participating in eDNA study. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui Police Officer Arrested for Domestic Abuse. Maui police responded to a Kahului residence on Tuesday night after receiving a call for a domestic violence complaint involving a 26-year-old female and an off-duty Maui Police Department officer. Maui Now.

State pension system still considering golf course development. As questions circled around plans for the Kaanapali Golf Course, the executive director of the state Employees’ Retirement System, which owns the golf course, said it’s too early to tell how much the project will cost and whether it will prove beneficial for the agency and the community. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai County Department of Parks and Recreation director announces run for mayor. Kauai’s Lenny Rapozo announced Thursday that he’ll be entering the race for county mayor. Hawaii News Now.

Gov. David Ige covered a lot of ground in his 40-minute talk Thursday morning at the Lihue Business Association. Garden Island.

State Rep. Andria Tupola, recently chosen as House Minority Leader, will be at Lihue United Church Parish 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday. Tupola is running for governor. Garden Island.

The Department of Water recently held a blessing ceremony to commence the Koloa Well 16 A and 16 B Site and Building Improvements Project in Koloa. Garden Island.

State and county high-rise laws face changes in wake of fatal condo fire, Hurricane Fernanda threat lessens, Maui mayor cleared, Kauai salt makers react to climate change, Big Island couple pleads not guilty to starving 9-year-old, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hurricane Fernanda track NOAA

Fernanda continued to weaken overnight but remained a Category 2 hurricane. Hurricane Fernanda is packing maximum sustained winds near 100 mph while moving northwest at 9 mph. It’s located about 1,460 miles east of Hilo. Star-Advertiser.

Hurricane Fernanda continues to weaken as it churns toward the Central Pacific. Hawaii News Now.

The fire at the Marco Polo has put the spotlight on Act 53, formerly known as Senate Bill 611, which makes it illegal for any county to require single-family homes or duplexes to have sprinklers for the next 10 years. It’s a question of whether homeowners should be required to spend thousands of dollars to prevent potential tragedies, and whether raising the already-high price of housing in Hawaii is worth preventing loss of life. Civil Beat.

The Building Industry Association of Hawaii planned, then canceled, a celebration of a bill that prevents counties from mandating single-family homes have sprinklers. Civil Beat.

Lawmakers on the state and county level, as well as Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell, want to make sure a deadly high-rise fire, like the one that broke out Friday in the Marco Polo building, doesn’t happen again. KHON2.

Hundreds of older high-rise apartment buildings in Honolulu aren’t required to have sprinkler systems, but city officials are pushing for change in the wake of Friday’s deadly 26th-floor blaze. Associated Press.

Three days after a major fire killed three people at the Marco Polo condominium complex, Mayor Kirk Caldwell has sent the City Council a proposal to require high-rise residential buildings without automatic fire sprinklers to install them. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell today introduced a bill that would require all residential buildings over 75 feet high to install sprinkler systems. The Honolulu Fire Department estimated there are about 300 highrise apartment buildings on Oahu that don't have sprinkler systems. Hawaii News Now.

Fire investigators said Monday the apartment where a deadly fire began in a Honolulu high-rise was near the two units on the 26th floor where the bodies of three victims were found, but they’re still working to determine the cause. Associated Press.

The Marco Polo fatal high-rise fire did not begin in the condominium units of the three people who died in the Friday five-alarm blaze, Honolulu fire investigators have determined. Star-Advertiser.

Commentary: Does The Risk Justify The Cost Of Sprinklers In Older High-Rises? Until now, the answer has been “no.” But the tragic fire in the Marco Polo condominiums could change the equation. Civil Beat.

Commentary: There are no easy answers to draw from Friday’s tragic fire that killed three people at the Marco Polo condominium tower. There is, however, one necessary answer: Heed the calls to retrofit older buildings with fire sprinkler systems. Star-Advertiser.

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The State Department Monday expanded its definition of “close family” to include grandparents and other relatives that constitute a bona fide U.S. relationship for visa applicants and refugees from six mainly Muslim nations, in response to a Hawaii federal judge’s order last week. Associated Press.

Medical Aid In Dying Dealt Another Blow In Hawaii. An Oahu circuit judge on Friday dismissed a lawsuit asking the court to prevent existing Hawaii criminal laws from being applied to medical aid in dying practices. Big Island Video News.

The state Public Utilities Commission has accepted an updated plan submitted by Hawaiian Electric Cos. detailing how it will reach the state’s goal of 100 percent renewable energy five years ahead of schedule. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric rates could rise 44% under plan OKed by state regulators. Pacific Business News.

Costco Wholesale Corp. paid a fine last week of nearly $5,000 for violating Hawaii's beverage container deposit requirements, the Hawaii State Department of Health said Monday. Pacific Business News.

They can’t quite top Bernie Sanders, but Hawaii U.S. Sens. Brian Schatz and Mazie Hirono both rank among the three most popular senators in the nation, according to a recent poll by survey research company Morning Consult. Star-Advertiser.

Food safety inspectors will begin stepping up enforcement of a new law that bans the use of latex gloves in restaurants. KHON2.

Oahu

Kaimuki charter school finds site to share. SEEQS — the School for Examining Essential Questions of Sustainability — will be sharing a campus with Kaimuki High School, 2 miles away. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii County is taking another crack at property tax reform. Fresh from raising taxes on most property types, county officials say they are convening an internal working group to recommend changes to the tax code. Tribune-Herald.

Public Works Director Frank DeMarco has decided to retire. West Hawaii Today.

Keith Okamoto, Hawaii County Department of Water Supply manager and chief engineer, came to Kona on Monday to offer a presentation on the area’s water emergency to the Hawaii County Council’s Agriculture, Water and Energy Sustainability Committee. West Hawaii Today.

Both parents accused of starving a 9-year-old Hilo girl to death last year pleaded not guilty Monday to second-degree murder. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

State officials are dropping a complaint against Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa that accused him of using campaign funds for personal purposes by sponsoring a softball team. Star-Advertiser.

A bill aiming to regulate and look into sand extraction in Maui County is undergoing changes, as a Maui County Council committee continues to mull the measure that arose from an uproar over a recent sand excavation and export case in Maui Lani. Maui News.

A new system will help forecast the effects of sea level rise and waves in West Maui. The University of Hawaii at Manoa’s Pacific Islands Ocean Observing System has received a grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to develop the model. Hawaii Public Radio.

A Stage 1 water shortage declaration for Upcountry, which calls for voluntary cutbacks by consumers, goes into effect today due to drier-than-normal trade wind flows so far this summer. Maui News.

Trilogy Excursions announced it has outfitted all six of its sailing catamarans with sunscreen that is free of reef damaging chemicals. Maui Now.

Kauai

A community of traditional salt makers on Kauai is navigating the impacts of climate change on the generations-old practice. Hawaii Public Radio.

Swells could reach 8 feet on the Eastside today as the initial impacts of Hurricane Fernanda begin to reach Kauai. Garden Island.

The Department of Land and Natural Resources is seeking new projects for its Hawaii Forest Legacy Program that will protect important working forest lands from the threat of conversion to non-forest uses. Garden Island.

Ige pushes early inmate release, 16% pay raise for lifeguards, Honolulu mayor, council battle over recycling fees, Big Island lead cleanup to cost $6M, Kauai mayor seeks 3.4% budget bump, federal money for displaced Maui sugar workers, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

ohia flower © 2016 All Hawaii News

In years past, hula students would make pilgrimages into ohia forests on Hawaii’s Big Island to gather blossoms and leaves from the trees to adorn dancers’ lei, hair, hands and feet for the world’s most prestigious hula competition. But at this year’s upcoming Merrie Monarch Festival, the red and yellow blossoms that normally adorn dancers will be missing. Associated Press.

Gov. David Ige is asking legislators to allow the state correctional system to grant “early release” to misdemeanor criminal offenders as a way to ease overcrowding in Hawaii jails. Star-Advertiser.

Hundreds of Hawaii inmates could be released from jail to help ease overcrowding issues. That’s if a bill making its way through the State Legislature becomes law. KHON2.

Hawaii lifeguards are set to receive a 16 percent pay raise starting July 1 under a new two-year union contract. Negotiations between the Hawaii Government Employees Association and state and county officials reached an impasse, but a neutral arbitrator took up the matter and issued an award in February. Civil Beat.

Industry experts say there are a lot of chemicals that could contaminate Hawaii's medical marijuana. Dispensaries are set to open in Hawaii in July, and state lawmakers are pushing a broad bill to address many of the obstacles the industry is facing. One is how to regulate marijuana testing. Associated Press.

A statewide series of public hearings will be held from March 28 to May 5 on proposed University of Hawaii tuition increases of up to 6 percent over three years. Star-Advertiser.

The number of public school employees on leave after being accused of misconduct has dropped substantially after a push to ensure cases are resolved faster and discipline is appropriate. Star-Advertiser.

Three major problems with the ʻAha Native Hawaiian constitution. Hawaii Independent.

Oahu

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell on Tuesday again urged the City Council to stop a bill that he describes as a form of “corporate welfare” because it would largely help one recycling company: Schnitzer Steel Hawaii Co. The Council is scheduled to hold an override vote today on Bill 50, which would give metal recyclers a 25 percent discount on refuse disposal fees at the landfill or the city’s HPOWER waste-to-energy incinerator plant. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell wants the City Council to consider a proposal aimed at helping locally owned recycling companies instead of overriding his veto of another measure that would subsidize all recycling businesses that bring large amounts of solid waste to the landfill. Civil Beat.

Honolulu rail project's chief architect departs, warns of project's future. Pacific Business News.

Across the board, Oahu residents have fewer preventable deaths than the rest of the state — especially compared to Hawaii County. Civil Beat.

Rising Seas Could Displace Thousands Of Ewa Beach Residents. A new report demonstrates the vulnerability of the Oahu coastline from climate change and beach erosion. Civil Beat.

The State is relocating its Data Center from the flood-zoned Kalanimoku Building in Downtown Honolulu to one on higher ground. Hawaii Public Radio.

More than 200 emergency planners and government officials from across the Pacific are attending a conference on natural disaster planning this week at the Hawai‘i Convention Center. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism has announced the 2016 season of its Creative Lab Hawaii Accelerator Program after receiving $550,000 in funding. Pacific Business News

Hawaii

According to the monitor of a bid process for a Big Island geothermal facility, poor planning by Hawaiian Electric may have undermined the idea from the start. Pacific Business News.

The bad news is, it’s going to cost at least $6 million to clean lead from the Kealakehe scrap yard. The good news, Hawaii County can borrow the money at a 1 percent interest rate. West Hawaii Today.

A former county employee who embezzled more than $30,000 from the Department of Finance Vehicle Registration and Licensing Division will serve a short jail sentence and her conviction will be wiped clean if she stays out of trouble for five years. Tribune-Herald.

State and federal wildlife agencies are creating an “encyclopedia” of sorts they hope will guide future efforts to control invasive mongooses and rodents in Hawaii and better protect native species. But first, they want input from the public. Tribune-Herald.

The man involved with the “Freedom Ride” movement, which holds that licenses and registration are not needed for private vehicles, did not show up to court regarding his traffic ticket on Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui County Mayor Alan Arakawa called the state of Maui County "one of perpetual change" Monday night, as he lauded recent developments in parks and transportation and laid out plans for dealing with new issues, such as the end of the sugar industry, as well as recurring issues such as affordable housing. Maui News.

Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa delivers his 2016 State of the County Address tonight before a full house at the McCoy Studio Theater at the Maui Arts and Cultural Center saying the state of Maui County “is one of perpetual change.”  The address highlights the County’s achievements in 2015, as well as plans for the coming year. Maui Now.

In Monday night's State of the County address, Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa highlighted the Valley Isle's growing homeless problem. Help for some could be on the way---a proposal to purchase housing units is awaiting council approval. KITV4.

Millions in federal dollars are expected to be available soon to displaced Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Co. workers to help them support their families while they train and educate themselves for new jobs, U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz and Gov. David Ige announced Monday. Maui News.

Maui Electric Co.'s fossil-fuel generation costs, lowered by declining oil prices worldwide that have benefited customers, have dipped below the fixed price the utility pays for wind power. Maui News.

Kauai

A preliminary 2016-17 county budget released this week by Kauai Mayor Bernard Carvalho, Jr. proposes a $188.8 million spending plan — an increase of about 3.4 percent from the current $182 million budget. Garden Island.

Island Air bid farewell to Kauai nine months ago amid a companywide restructuring. On Tuesday the state’s second-largest carrier returned with a new ownership group to a festive welcome. Star-Advertiser.

Welcome Flight 109. Cheers, praise greet Island Air’s return to Kauai. Garden Island.

Marines still hold hope for survivors following collision of helicopters carrying 12; Hillary Clinton, Duke Aiona, Thirty Meter Telescope, Honolulu rail tops in polls; Maui mulls private electric utility; Kauai recycling challenged, Banyan Drive redevelopment plans; more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Window washers at Hawaii Convention Center © 2016 All Hawaii News

Over the past two decades taxpayers have paid about $450 million toward the cost of the Hawai‘i Convention Center, but lawmakers were told last week the Hawaii Tourism Authority still owes almost as much for the center as when the state first started paying for it in 1995. Star-Advertiser.

The search continues for 12 missing marines after two military helicopters crashed late Thursday off O‘ahu’s north shore. Coast Guard Captain Jim Jenkins said there are no plans to call off the mission and still believes there’s hope for survivors. Hawaii Public Radio.

The search for 12 Marines who were on board two helicopters that collided off Oahu's North Shore has entered its fourth day on Monday, with rescuers scouring a widening search area in hopes of finding survivors.  Hawaii News Now.

The ongoing search for 12 Marines who are missing after two helicopters crashed off Hawaii entered the third day with no plans Sunday to call off or suspend the massive effort, the Coast Guard said. Associated Press.

Federal, state, and county officials are searching for a third day today for 12 Marines who are missing after the two helicopters they were in crashed off Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Far beyond Hawaii's shores, family and friends of the Marines refuse to give up hope. KITV4.

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Creating more affordable housing, helping the homeless and seeking greater fiscal accountability top the Legislature’s 2016 agenda.  On Friday, House and Senate leaders provided more details of their agenda this session. Civil Beat.

Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton is clearly the most popular candidate for president among Hawaii voters early in the 2016 election season, with 35 percent of those surveyed saying they would cast their ballot for her if the election were held today, according to a new Hawaii Poll. Star-Advertiser.

A substantial majority of Hawaii residents supports the construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope, while a plurality opposes a convention that aims to form a Native Hawaiian government. But it’s a different story for Native Hawaiians, most of whom oppose the telescope while a narrow majority supports the Na‘i Aupuni convention, or aha. Star-Advertiser.

A state legislator is taking issue with comments made at a legislative hearing Wednesday by a top state land department official that implied the agency’s law enforcement officers need semi-automatic weapons to guard against fishermen from the Philippines and Indonesia working in local waters who may be Muslim. Civil Beat.

Opposition to NextEra Energy Inc.’s proposed $4.3 billion purchase of Hawaiian Electric Industries is growing among Hawaii residents, according to the latest Hawaii Poll. Star-Advertiser.

More people are working in Hawaii than ever before, and the additional income being generated is keeping card machines whirling. Star-Advertiser.

The final quarter of 2015 was the 24th consecutive quarter of growth in credit and debit sale transactions in Hawaii, meaning sales in the state were up 7 percent for the year, according to First Hawaiian Bank’s Business Activity Report. Pacific Business News.

Commentary: Bishop Museum is selling off land. HC&S is ending sugar operations. The University of Hawaii is shelving plans for a building in Sen. Dan Inouye’s honor. More stark reminders of what Hawaii is like without Inouye. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Former Hawaii Lt. Gov. James “Duke” Aiona insists he has not made up his mind about running for Honolulu mayor, but the latest Hawaii Poll may give him encouragement. Aiona, who on Friday acknowledged that he is considering a run, came out on top in a three-way poll question asking registered voters whom they’d select as mayor if the election were to occur today, beating out incumbent Kirk Caldwell and the second-most powerful person at Honolulu Hale, City Council Chairman Ernie Martin. Star-Advertiser.

With nearly 300 concrete columns planted firmly in the ground from East Kapolei through Central Oahu and nearly six miles of guideway built on top of them, most Oahu residents now say they think rail construction should proceed, the latest Hawaii Poll shows. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell is scheduled to leave tonight to attend the United States Conference of Mayors annual winter meeting in Washington, D.C. and to meet with federal officials on homelessness and the Honolulu rail project. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu voters might have the chance to enact meaningful police reform when they cast their ballots this November. On Friday, the Honolulu Charter Commission was supposed to make decisions on several measures that would toughen up police oversight in the city. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

Candidates can start pulling papers for this year’s election in just two weeks, but who plans to run for the county’s most important seat is still a big question mark. West Hawaii Today.

A few thousand dollars here, a few thousand there. Pretty soon it starts to add up. In the case of a special County Council fund for contingencies, it adds up to $900,000. Each council member at the beginning of the fiscal year received $100,000. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County Planning Director Duane Kanuha announced the state and local governments have entered into a cooperative agreement that will enact a Banyan Drive redevelopment agency, similar to the Hawaii Redevelopment Agency that helped Hilo recover following the 1960 tsunami. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii County is looking to take the wheel on revitalizing Hilo’s beleaguered Banyan Drive with a new planning agency that could largely take over the state’s role in overseeing leases and development on the Waiakea Peninsula. Tribune-Herald.

Access to Waipio Valley could remain restricted for 8-12 weeks even after no new cases of dengue fever have been confirmed in the area, according to Hawaii County Civil Defense officials. Tribune-Herald.

A state-funded project to upgrade the Big Island’s largest port facility has reached its final phase. On Friday morning, state Department of Transportation officials and lawmakers broke ground on the interisland cargo terminal of Hilo Harbor’s Pier 4 project. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii state Office of Aerospace Development is anticipating that environmental assessment for Kona International Airport will be completed in the coming weeks. Pacific Business News.

Torrential summer rains knocked out construction work for several weeks, and the discovery of shabby fill material on Highway 11 sent a 500-foot retaining wall back to the drawing board to the tune of $900,000. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Homelessness, energy, public school infrastructure needs - such as cooling hot classrooms - the economy, health care issues, penal reform and perhaps even a statewide lottery are among top issues expected to confront Maui County's state lawmakers in this year's lawmaking session that kicks off Wednesday. Maui News.

An independent operator should run Maui County’s power utility — not Hawaiian Electric, according to a study of utility ownership models released on January 15. Civil Beat.

A consultant hired by the administration of Mayor Alan Arakawa recommended that Maui County seek a new private entity to oversee Maui's electric grid while leaving power generation and transmission in the hands of Maui Electric Co. Maui News.

The owner of a plantation on Maui who is looking to turn the property into a development with small businesses and more than 1,400 homes expects for the project's environmental impact statement to be submitted for review this week. Hawaii News Now.

The developer of Waikapu Country Town, a development of more than 1,000 homes and acres of farmland surrounding the Maui Tropical Plantation, expects to submit the project's draft environmental impact statement to the state Land Use Commission this week. Maui News.

With approval for the site plan in hand and many procedural hurdles already cleared, the physical work on West Maui's long-awaited hospital is soon to begin. Maui News.

Kauai

Citing rising costs and inadequate funding, Reynolds Recycling is making cuts around the island. Garden Island.

The seawall fronting the Pono Kai Resort in Kapaa has been dedicated — below budget and ahead of schedule. Garden Island.

Incoming ninth-graders and their parents got a surprise recently when they learned advanced classes will not be offered at Kapaa High School next year. Garden Island.

Legislative panel criticizes medical marijuana rules, Obama visit spurs tourism spike, Scott Walker coming to GOP Lincoln Day dinner, sunrise peekers cram Haleakala summit, upheaval in Honolulu TV, drug tests ended following ACLU lawsuit, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Medical marijuana permits sign © 2015 All Hawaii News

Hawaii lawmakers criticized top Department of Health officials on Monday over new rules governing the growth and sale of medical marijuana, saying that health officials may have overstepped their statutory authority by prohibiting the use of greenhouses and excluding official retail outlets from selling rolled marijuana cigarettes and certain smoking paraphernalia. Star-Advertiser.

The state may have unintentionally created a tax loophole when it wrote the rules for its new medical marijuana dispensaries system, a Hawaii lawmaker said Monday. Associated Press.

With barely two weeks to go before prospective medical-marijuana business owners can apply for dispensary licenses at the Department of Health, some state lawmakers see some big problems with new rules the department announced earlier this month. Civil Beat.

Why are greenhouses outlawed, medical marijuana joints banned, and cannabis baked goods forbidden in Hawaii? State lawmakers peppered the Hawaii State Department of Health with questions at an informational briefing on the state’s first medical cannabis dispensary system at the capitol Monday afternoon. Pacific Business News.

Next summer Hawaii will debut its first medical marijuana dispensary system. But lawmakers say there are still many issues that need clarification. Hawaii Public Radio.

DNA tests urged for homestead applicants. One of the only times blood quantum is relevant is for applying for a homestead lease. Those with at least 50 percent Hawaiian blood quantum can apply for a 99-year lease for $1 a year. Associated Press.

The Hawaii Republican Party says that Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker will be its keynote speaker for the local GOP’s 2016 Lincoln Day Dinner on Feb.16. Civil Beat.

Steve Rodgers, Bank of Hawaii's chief investment officer, predicts a rising interest rate environment should not hinder the state’s growing municipal bond sales in the coming years. Pacific Business News.

Many Hawaii residents may be unprepared for the expenses incurred as they and their family members grow older, according to the results of a new survey. Tribune-Herald.

Environmental groups are considering their options after a judge rejected their effort to cut how many bigeye tuna Hawaii longline fisherman can catch. Civil Beat.

The leader of the free world is becoming one of the most effective pitchmen for Hawaii's no. 1 industry. Tourism marketing experts said it would cost Hawaii's visitor industry millions of dollars to match the annual televised news coverage of the president and his family enjoying the great weather at local golf courses and other outdoor and fine dining activities here. Hawaii News Now.

President Barack Obama kept tabs on events in Texas and Iraq on Monday as he spent the 10th day of his annual Hawaiian vacation in the gym and on the links. Star-Advertiser.

A drone flew near the president’s motorcade as it left Kailua for Alan Wong's on Monday evening. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

At least 50 people continue to camp along the parks and sidewalks of Kakaako makai despite ongoing efforts by state and city officials to move the homeless elsewhere. Star-Advertiser.

Upheaval At A Local Television Station. New owners of Hawaii ABC affiliate KITV are upgrading technology — but cutting personnel. Some industry veterans fear for the future of local TV news. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Electric Co. gifted Oahu households roughly $1 on their electrical bills this month, continuing the downward trend after November marked the lowest price in more than five years. Star-Advertiser.

The number of beverage container redemption centers on Oahu has dropped significantly this year as the price of aluminum plummeted by about 22 percent. Star-Advertiser.

Less Dog Duty for HPD after an increase in staffing at the Hawaiian Humane Society.  The Hawaiian Humane Society has expanded its services thanks to some much needed funding from the city. KITV4.

Through the benefit of extra funding, Mayor Kirk Caldwell announced Monday that the Hawaiian Humane Society will immediately resume providing convenient animal services to the community, such as picking up non-dangerous stray dogs and responding to barking complaints. KHON2.

Hawaii

After being sued for requiring drug tests of prospective employees, the Hawaii County Department of Human Resources is changing its rules and modifying which successful applicants will be screened for drug use before being hired. West Hawaii Today.

Following a year of a setbacks, from protests to lawsuits, the astronomy community in Hawaii might have something to look forward to in 2016 as the oldest observatory on Mauna Kea gets a major makeover. Tribune-Herald.

Maui
The state Department of Transportation has announced plans for work on roadways in Upcountry, Haiku and Wailuku this week. Maui News.

Officials at Haleakalā National Park are reporting very heavy traffic for sunrise viewing at the summit during the holidays. Maui Now.

MPD juvenile counselor retiring after 22 years. ‘You wish you could save them all, but you can’t’ Maui News.

Kauai

Voters on Kauai elect their County Council members at-large. That means all seven members represent the entire island.  But every other county in Hawaii has some form of district voting and Kauai may be about to move in that direction. Hawaii Public Radio.

Sue Kanoho, executive director of the Kauai Visitors Bureau, works toward overcoming the state’s biggest competitors in the tourism industry, and promoting Kauai’s warm weather during the winter. Garden Island.

Ige focused on Kakaako homeless woes, raises sought for UH administrators, Kenoi's role in hiring campaign manager questioned, new water treatment plant for Maui, lasers keep birds off Kauai light poles, West Hawaii to be short on water, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

University of Hawaii courtesy photo

The University of Hawaii president is seeking approval of pay raises totaling $1 million for nearly 200 of its nonunionized executives in positions the university says have not seen a salary increase in seven years. Star-Advertiser.

Editorial: The generations-old push to re-establish U.S. recognition of the sovereignty and government of the Native Hawaiian people reached a milestone last week when the Department of the Interior announced it will soon publish a draft rule that would allow Native Hawaiians to leverage that recognition. Civil Beat.

Oahu

A planned August sweep of the Kakaako homeless encampment is on hold as Gov. David Ige and Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell pore over disheartening data that show the 293 people living in tents and tarps near the University of Hawaii’s medical school and Hawaii Children’s Discovery Center have few housing options. Star-Advertiser.

More than 40 percent of the people in a homeless encampment in Honolulu's Kakaako district are families, according to a new survey released by Hawaii Gov. David Ige on Monday. Associated Press.

Less than half of homeless individuals living in a camp in Kakaako are families, and the majority of them are Native Hawaiian or Polynesian, a new study has found. Pacific Business News.

The Governor’s Leadership Team on Homelessness met again today to go over the data collected by social service agencies on the homeless encampment at Kaka’ako. Hawaii Public Radio.

The city's homeless village at Sand Island is very quickly starting to take shape. KITV4.

Oregon-based Schnitzer Steel would save nearly $1.3 million each year if the Honolulu City Council approves a subsidy for scrap metal recycling that would cost the city more than $1.45 million in annual revenue. Bill 50, introduced by Chair Ernie Martin, would impose a 65 percent discount on the disposal fee that companies pay when they deliver solid waste to the landfill. The city created the subsidy in the 1990s, but it was discontinued two years ago. Civil Beat.

Citing safety concerns, state regulators want to shift where enthusiasts can ride their personal watercraft at Keehi Lagoon — but the proposal already faces resistance from many local canoe paddlers. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii regulators have denied the applications for power purchase agreements between three large proposed solar energy farms, including Florida-based NextEra Energy Inc.'s 15-megawatt Ka La Nui project in Waianae in Leeward Oahu, and Hawaiian Electric Co., according to public documents. Pacific Business News.

The state Public Utilities Commission said Monday it denied three utility-scale solar projects on Oahu due to concerns about cost-effectiveness and the location of the facilities. Star-Advertiser.

Residents who were invited to choose a color for the refurbished Magic Island pathway have selected reddish-brown. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

Although the Hawaii County Board of Ethics last month cleared Mayor Billy Kenoi of wrongdoing in the hiring of his campaign manager to a top-paying government position, documents obtained by West Hawaii Today raise questions about his role.

If North Kona were built up to the full extent that current land uses allow, the developments would draw 28 million gallons of water a day from the Keauhou aquifer — slightly less than twice what is drawn now. West Hawaii Today.

The State Commission on Water Resource Management (CWRM) held a meeting at the West Hawaii Civic Center on Monday. Once again, agenda items were primarily related to the U.S National Park Service’s petition to designate the Keauhou Aquifer System Area as a Ground Water Management Area, which the County of Hawaii opposes. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii County is considering ways to make the Waipio Valley Access Road safer and will discuss options at a meeting next week in Honokaa. Tribune-Herald.

After nearly eight years of talk-story groups, committee meetings, readjustments and revisions, county planners and a steering committee of residents are close to finalizing the draft of a document that will guide future planning decisions for the entire Ka‘u District. Tribune-Herald.

Exonerated of fraud charges for a second time, Hilo's welfare doctor is now seeking payments from the state and insurers that accused him of bilking Hawaii's Medicaid program.  Hawaii News Now.

Maui

Maui County has received approval from the state to begin construction of a water treatment plant that will nearly double the capacity of the existing facility. Associated Press.

Beginning next summer, Maui County hopes to begin work on a new $12 million to $15 million Iao water treatment plant that will nearly double the amount of water handled by the current plant, according to documents filed with the state. Maui News.

A bill that seeks a ban on smoking at county bus stops will be considered by the Housing, Human Services and Transportation Committee this week. Maui Now.

The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands is moving forward with plans to build a 17-acre recreational park and community center in Kula. Maui News.

This Thursday, Aug. 20, Maui residents can talk story with U.S. Senator Brian Schatz at a Town Hall Meeting at Pomaikai Elementary School. MauiTime.

The batteries and transmitters that are a critical part of the Palikea Stream flood-warning system at Seven Sacred Pools were stolen last week, prompting Haleakala National Park to close the famous pools at Oheo. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

Kauai Island Utility Cooperative is continuing to experiment with highly concentrated beams of light from low powered lasers attached to transmission poles and the use of bird diverters on power lines as part of its ongoing effort to protect endangered seabirds. Garden Island.

The start of a planned renaissance of the long-shuttered Coco Palms Resort will take a little bit more time than expected. Garden Island.

In observance of Statehood Day, County of Kauai offices will be closed on Friday, along with all refuse transfer stations, the Kekaha Landfill, and Kauai Resource Center. Garden Island.

Abercrombie prison plan failing, more teachers staying, Maui to put lobbyist list online, Big Island flood zone maps changing, homelessness isn't child neglect, liquor in Chinatown, Coco Palms gets extension, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Oahu Community Correctional, courtesy Hawaii Department of Public Safety

Measures aimed at overhauling Hawaii’s troubled criminal justice system by making it more efficient and shifting resources to efforts that promote rehabilitation and reduce recidivism — under a program called the Justice Reinvestment Initiative, was projected to help reduce the state’s inmate population by more than 900 by the end of fiscal year 2015 — and eventually lead to a reduction of 1,010 inmates by fiscal year 2018. But, as of May 31, Hawaii’s inmate population stood at 5,998 — merely 62 fewer inmates than in June 2012. Civil Beat.

A growing number of beginning teachers in Hawaii public schools are staying on the job longer, past the critical five-year mark experts say most likely determines whether a teacher will stick with or part with the profession. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Board of Education will be broadcasting live audio of its Tuesday meeting, a new initiative aimed at increasing the accessibility and transparency of meetings. Civil Beat.

The Federal Communications Commission has interrupted the monthly subsidy payments it has provided to Hawaii telecommunications company Sandwich Isles Communications Inc. for more than a decade in the wake of federal criminal convictions of company founder Albert Hee, according to federal records. Star-Advertiser.

Tom Yamachika Commentary: A Classic Example of Procurement Run Amok. The Hawaii Department of Health doesn’t seem too worked up over a finding that it allowed an original bid of $76,400 to balloon into a $525,000 final bill. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Those overseeing Honolulu’s rail project worked on multiple occasions — and with various advocates — to sharpen their message for an eventual rail-tax extension well before it was publicly announced that the transit project faced a nearly $1 billion budget shortfall, documents show. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transit (HART) trumpets a reduction in traffic congestion on Honolulu’s crowded streets and clogged freeways as the primary benefit to the multi-billion dollar rail project. But, while the project is still years away from completion, statistics on the contributing factors show that congestion will only get worse in the mean time. Hawaii Independent.

Noise levels would determine whether a bird owner in a residential zone should be penalized for creating a public nuisance under a new proposal being offered by City Councilwoman Carol Fukunaga. Star-Advertiser.

Some merchants in Chinatown want to increase business by serving alcohol in public places.   But a number of residents strongly opposed the measure and it appears the Honolulu City Council is on their side. Hawaii Public Radio.

Children growing up on the street is unfortunately becoming a common sight across our island.  An issue that has many wondering why these kids are allowed to live this way. Hawaii News Now.

While the homeless situation in Kakaako is getting much attention, there is a business off Nimitz Highway that’s faced the problem for years. KHON2.

The Honolulu City Council is urging the Hawaii Community Development Authority to uphold its "glass rule" for projects in Kakaako with regard to San Diego-based developer OliverMcMillan's Symphony Honolulu mixed-use condominium tower, according to public documents. Pacific Business News.

A ban on smoking at the University of Hawaii at Manoa campus is in effect starting Monday, according to school officials. Hawaii News Now.

Movie Theaters Inspecting Bags, Packages. The policy appears to have been prompted by recent attacks on the mainland over a two-week period in July and August. Civil Beat.

A Hawaii agency is moving ahead with its plan to go entirely off the electrical grid by developing its own microgrid system, according to public documents. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

Big changes are coming to Hawaii County’s flood zone maps following a multi-year effort by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency to update the maps to better reflect flood risk. West Hawaii Today.

In an unusual confrontation between established island Democrats, two-term County Councilman Greggor Ilagan from Puna is running for the state Senate seat now held by Russell Ruderman, setting up a potentially fierce primary contest that would be a study in political contrasts. Star-Advertiser.

Demand for dental services at the new West Hawaii Community Health Center in Kealakehe has been so brisk in a single month that Kevin Nietzer, the facility’s dental director, said it’s time to look into hiring more staff. West Hawaii Today.

When it reopens sometime this fall as the “Market at Kalani,” customers will be able to find everything from locally grown produce to home and health products, with the retreat leveraging its buying power with vendors to make it an affordable and abundant shopping center. Tribune-Herald.

Maui
The public can soon expect to have a much easier time finding out who is a registered lobbyist in Maui County. The Board of Ethics voted unanimously last week to post the list on its website. It’s unclear when that will start. Civil Beat.

Another wide-load convoy carrying telescope equipment is expected to head to Haleakala next week, with protesters apparently planning some kind of "action" again after 20 people were arrested two weeks ago during another wide-load transport. Maui News.

The Maui County Liquor Control Commission has until Oct. 1 to define dancing at establishments that serve alcohol, providing hope for dance enthusiasts who have been fighting restrictions for nearly a decade. Maui News.

Maui County is seeking $160,000 from condo, vacation rental and timeshare owners to help fund a study into ways to keep their beachfront property from washing away. Star-Advertiser.

The leaky Old Wailuku Pool is showing its age and may require an expensive repair job, the county Department of Parks and Recreation director said Friday. Maui News.

Kauai

The Kauai Planning Commission has voted unanimously to approve a request from an investment group for a time extension to submit demolition permits to rebuild the shuttered Coco Palms Hotel on Kauai. Star-Advertiser.

Environmental regulators will solicit public input in Hanalei this week about a new management plan for Haena State Park that calls for controlled entry, a 900-person daily visitor cap and beach access by way of an elevated boardwalk. Garden Island.

Kauai Community College’s newest satellite location stands among the taro fields below the green, waterfall-covered mountains of Hanalei. Garden Island.

Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard is the featured speaker at the next Kauai Chamber of Commerce luncheon. Garden Island.