Hawaii educators lay out school reopening guidelines, mayors unclear on pre-travel COVID-19 testing, Caldwell looks to loosen Honolulu lockdown, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Public schools will make ‘gradual’ transition to blended learning in October. Public school parents should prepare for distance learning to continue into the second quarter, but schools will slowly transition to a blended model that includes some in-person instruction starting in mid-October, schools Superintendent Christina Kishimoto announced Thursday. Hawaii News Now.

Some students could return to Hawaii public schools after fall break. Some public schools may offer blended learning later this fall under new Health Department benchmarks, but families should expect to start the second quarter Oct. 12 still in distance learning. Star-Advertiser.

New Guidance Shows When Hawaii Schools Should Go In-Person, Blended Or Learn-From-Home. Under the new guidance, Hawaiʻi island schools would return to in-person learning for elementary school students and blended learning for secondary students. Big Island Video News.

State unveils metrics for school reopening. There is still no set reopening date for classrooms in Hawaii, but the state health and education departments on Thursday provided metrics for how they plan to handle instruction based on the COVID-19 infection rate on each island. Tribune-Herald.

DOH Provides Metrics on HIDOE’s Learning Parameters for Second Quarter. The Hawai‘i State Department of Education will use newly released guidance from the Hawai‘i State Department of Health to plan for appropriate learning models for the remainder of the academic year. Big Island Now.

HIDOE: COVID-19 benchmarks in place for gradual transition to blended learning. It follows guidance developed by the Department of Health and applies to both public and private schools. KITV4.

Gradual Rollout of Blended Learning Expected in 2nd Quarter at Hawai‘i Schools. Governor David Ige joined superintendent Dr. Christina Kishimoto with the state Department of Education and Dr. Sarah Kemble, Asst. Hawai‘i State Epidemiologist today in announcing updated COVID-19 guidance for Hawai‘i’s schools. Maui Now.

Islands to decide on school reopenings. Via Gov. David Ige’s Thursday press conference, the state Department of Education announced they will use a newly released guidance from the state Department of Health to plan for appropriate learning models for the remainder of the current school year. Garden Island.

HSTA Against New District Metrics Presented by HIDOE, DOH. The Hawai‘i State Teachers Association is adamantly against the new metrics presented by the Department of Health Thursday, which provide guidance for appropriate learning models for the remainder of the academic year. Big Island Now.

=====

Governor Ige looking into establishing 'international travel bubbles'. On Thursday Governor Ige said he's still looking into establishing "international travel bubbles." KITV4.

Hawaii Will Reopen Without Quarantine To Those Who Test Negative But Some Think It's Unsafe. Mainland travelers may be able to avoid quarantine if they get a negative COVID-19 test before arriving in Hawaii starting October 15th. But some say the one-test plan is unsafe for Hawaii. Hawaii Public Radio.

A day after announcing the launch of a testing program on Oct. 15 for trans-Pacific travelers, the governor said he is working with county leaders on inter-island travel. An inter-island quarantine continues through at least Sept. 30, but is expected to be extended. Hawaii News Now.

Plans for interisland travel unclear as state poised to welcome back visitors. The governor said he is looking to launch a pilot pre-testing program for interisland travel, but is concerned about testing capacity across the islands. KITV4.

Neighbor island mayors say more details needed before pre-testing program begins. The inter-island quarantine remains in effect through Sept. 30, just two weeks before the pre-travel testing program is set to begin. KHON2.

=====

Civil Beat Economy Panel: ‘We Don’t Survive’ Without Reopening Tourism. Hawaii may not see 10 million tourists in a year land on its shores again soon — or ever — but the economy won’t fully recover until at least some tourists return, a panel of tourism and business leaders said Thursday. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Airlines to cut one-third of workforce. Hawaiian Airlines’ pre-pandemic payroll will be cut by one-third, or 2,501 jobs, as of the start of next month. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines says more furloughs could come if pre-travel testing program is extended again. A total of 2,501 jobs were cut from Hawaiian Airlines. KHON2.

Qualified workers in Hawaii to get extra week of unemployment benefits from FEMA. Hawaii workers eligible for an additional $300 per week in unemployment benefits from the Federal Emergency Management Agency will receive an extra week of benefits. Star-Advertiser.

State launches its loss wage assistance program. New unemployment numbers released on Thursday show nearly 80,000 people were without a job in August. KITV4.

=====

University of Hawaii athletic department counts 4 positive test results. Out of 373 tests conducted for the University of Hawaii athletic department, there have been four positive results to date, the school’s Board of Regents was told on Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

VIRUS TRACKER — Sept. 17: 160 New COVID-19 Cases And 5 Deaths In Hawaii. At least 120 people have died from the virus in Hawaii to date, though the state’s official tally is lower because of reporting lags. Civil Beat.

DOH Reports 160 Cases, 4 New COVID-Related Deaths. The total number of cases statewide since the pandemic began now stands at 11,105. Big Island Now.

Oahu

Mayor: New order will allow small household gatherings on beaches, parks. The city’s stay-at-home order remains in effect for another week, but the mayor is pledging to ease some restrictions on gatherings and businesses with his next proclamation. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu City Council chairman’s departure and search for his replacement stirs ethics complaints. City Councilmembers calling for more transparency surrounding the departure of Council Chairman Ikaika Anderson have filed complaints with the Honolulu Ethics Commission and have asked to pause the search for his replacement. Star-Advertiser.

Councilwoman Files Ethics Complaints Over Chair’s Departure To Union Job. Councilwomen Heidi Tsuneyoshi and Kym Pine are requesting a more open process to choose Anderson’s replacement. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Rail P3 Bidder Wants More Than $2 Billion For The Final Stretch. Local officials have remained tight-lipped on what’s happening with the long-anticipated award for the project’s final leg. Civil Beat.

=====

Mayor Caldwell announces additional $75 million in grants for Oahu small businesses. Mayor Kirk Caldwell has announced an additional $75 million in additional financial support for small businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Offering Additional $75 Million In Aid To Businesses. Up to $50,000 is available to individual local businesses. Civil Beat.

City makes an additional $75M in aid available to struggling Oahu businesses. Since the fund launched in May, it has distributed more than $50 million to over 5,500 small businesses. Hawaii News Now.

Additional $75 million in grants soon to be available for Oahu's small businesses. This is a reimbursement program, and the city wants business owners to know that every invoice they submit needs to come with a receipt and proof of payment to qualify. KITV4.

=====

Sewage leak forces temporary closure of Sand Island Beach Park.  The state has temporarily closed the Sand Island State Recreation Area due to a large sewage spill. The state Health Department said the spill came from a broken line connecting a pump station at the park to the Sand Island Wastewater Treatment Plant. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Ballots to be mailed Oct. 7. The Hawaii County Elections Division announced Thursday that it will begin mailing ballots for the Nov. 3 general election on Oct. 7. West Hawaii Today.

Hilo’s Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home has history of problems. The Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home was a source of concern for federal regulators even before the pandemic, earning an overall “below average” rating and a citation for failing to provide and implement an infection prevention and control program. Star-Advertiser.

Long-awaited hydrogen buses on the way: Transit administrator predicts first bus in service by end of year. It’s been a long road, but the county’s first hydrogen bus — and possibly even three buses — should be traveling Kona streets before the year is out. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui Businesses Continue to Close and Struggle as Pandemic Drags On. At least 15 other Maui businesses, including eight restaurants, already have shuttered for good due to the economic woes of the pandemic. Maui Now.

Community clinic pharmacy to close for lack of patients. Malama I Ke Ola Health Center, which services the poor and those without health insurance, will be closing its pharmacy Wednesday, the community clinic announced Tuesday. Maui News.

Two solar power, battery storage projects are submitted to PUC. Price for renewable energy among the lowest on island. Two Maui solar and battery storage projects, which are slated to charge among the lowest rates for renewable energy on Maui, have been submitted to the state Public Utilities Commission for review and approval, Hawaiian Electric announced Wednesday. Maui News.

Kauai

Property tax exemptions, credits available. The County of Kaua‘i is announcing that 2021 real property tax exemptions or tax credits are available. Garden Island.

HDOH hopes UDSA federal funding will prevent food contamination. Earl Kashiwagi feels the $370,000 grant the state Department of Heath received from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to enhance Hawai‘i’s food emergency response network microbiology lab could benefit safety for food consumers. Garden Island.

Hawaii battles COVID-19 surge, government fights data release, entire H-3 freeway to become testing site, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii coronavirus cases on Aug 27, 2020, state Department of Health

U.S. Surgeon General warns spike will continue as COVID-19 cases climb above 300. Coronavirus infections in Hawaii reached their second-highest daily level Thursday as Oahu began complying with a two-week stay-at home order limiting business and activities on the island. Star-Advertiser.

Number of COVID-19 cases likely to spike again after testing surge, officials warn. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell likened Hawaii’s battle against coronavirus to ’war’ on Thursday, hours after the state Department of Health reported four new COVID-19 deaths statewide ― the most in a single day since the start of the pandemic. Hawaii News Now.

Lt. Gov. Green expects to see 'big surge' at Hawaii hospitals in next two weeks. Green compared the streak to hot spots like New York and Texas and predicted that some hospitals will see a "big surge" in the next two to three weeks. KITV4.

=====

State Asks Lawyers, Law Students To Help With Unemployment Claims Backlog — Pro Bono. Hawaii labor officials have been struggling to resolve thousands of unemployment claims with disputes over job separation. Civil Beat.

=====

Distance learning extended for Hawaii public schools, encouraged for private schools. Teachers and families have more clarity today after public schools extended distance learning through Oct. 2 and private schools got more specific guidance on operating during the shutdown. Star-Advertiser.

DOE extends distance learning through 1st quarter. The state Department of Education said Thursday that public schools will be limited to distance learning through the first quarter of the school year, but the union representing the state’s teachers claims that is still not enough to keep educators and students safe. Tribune-Herald.

=====

New Local Apps Will Help with Contact Tracing. Contact tracing helps fight the spread of COVID-19, but it is time consuming work that has overwhelmed the state Health Department. Two local apps designed to help contact tracers do their job faster and more effectively are in the works to combat this issue. Hawaii Business magazine.

HGEA leader blasting state response to coronavirus. The leader of the Hawaii Government Employees Association is blasting the state Department of Public Safety after a cluster of COVID-19 cases involving both employees and inmates at the Oahu Community Correctional Center. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Tourism Authority offers top post to John De Fries. Hawaii Tourism Authority today offered its top job to John De Fries, who upon acceptance would become the organization’s first Native Hawaiian chief. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii sees July visitor arrivals plummet 98% from a year ago. Only 22,562 visitors flew to Hawaii in July, which last year was Hawaii’s best tourism month. Star-Advertiser.

Women Were Already Struggling At Work. The Pandemic Is Making It Worse. Women are filing for unemployment and losing their businesses at higher rates than men. Civil Beat.

=====

Defense Secretary Visits Hawaii For RIMPAC. Mark Esper’s visit to the state was part of a broader tour of the Pacific that includes Guam and Palau in a signal to China. Civil Beat.

Vintage warbirds move to Wheeler Army Airfield for the 75th end-of-WWII aerial parades. Some of the airpower stars of World War II landed at Wheeler Army Airfield on Thursday, coming in from the Waianae Range side to touch down at the historic airport in preparation for three aerial parades in honor of the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II. Star-Advertiser.

Historic war planes to fly over Oahu in honor of WWII 75th anniversary. Historic war planes will fly over Oahu this weekend to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II. KHON2.

=====

The Latest: 4 Deaths, 306 New Cases; DOE Extends Learn From Home; Hundreds Line Up For Tests. A day after saying COVID-19 infections appear to be stabilizing, the Hawaii Department of Health today reported one of the state's worse daily counts in the pandemic: 4 deaths and 306 new cases. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaiʻi COVID-19 Updates For August 27: 306 New Cases, Four New Deaths. Big Island Video News.

VIRUS TRACKER — Aug. 27: 306 New COVID-19 Cases In Hawaii And 4 Deaths. Civil Beat.

4 new COVID-19 deaths in Honolulu as Hawaii sees 306 new cases on 1st day of Oahu lockdown. Department of Health officials reported four new COVID-19 deaths and 306 new coronavirus cases, bringing the statewide totals since the beginning of the pandemic in February to 7,566 cases and 55 fatalities. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Government workers who worked from home before now deemed essential Oahu government workers who were able to work from home during the first lockdown aren’t allowed to this time around. KHON2.

DOH Won’t Give Honolulu The Data It Needs To Detect Coronavirus In Our Sewage. Researchers need access to coronavirus test results by zip code in order to corroborate what they are finding in the island’s wastewater system. Civil Beat.

Payments From Honolulu’s $25 Million Hardship Fund Are Mired In Red Tape. Less than 10% of the money has been handed out in the past three months due to onerous application requirements and concerns about fraud. Civil Beat.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell announces additonal $25 million for COVID-19 small business relief. Mayor Kirk Caldwell announced today that the City and County of Honolulu will provide an additional $25 million for the city’s small business grant program started in response to the COVID-19 crisis. Star-Advertiser.

=====

State to use entire H-3 Freeway as COVID-19 testing site next week. State and city authorities are planning a full closure of the H-3 Freeway next week to help facilitate surge COVID-19 testing efforts on Oahu, the Department of Transportation announced Thursday. Hawaii News Now.

H-3 freeway eyed as site for COVID-19 surge testing next week. The H-3 freeway could be fully closed between Halawa Interchange and the Halekou Interchange to accommodate a COVID-19 surge testing location on Oahu, the state Department of Transportation reported today. Star-Advertiser.

State will shut down H-3 for two days; freeway will serve as COVID testing site. The Department of Transportation will shut down the H-3 freeway on September 1 and on September 3. KHON2.

H-3 freeway to close for COVID-19 surge testing next week. City and state officials are planning a full closure of the H-3 Freeway next week to continue COVID-19 surge testing on Oahu. KITV4.

=====

Candidates for Honolulu mayor land support of major unions ahead of election. Honolulu businessman Keith Amemiya and former television executive Rick Blangiardi each announced endorsements involving major Hawaii labor groups this week as the two prepare to face off in November’s general election. Hawaii News Now.

Details of rail P3 plan remain concealed. Details of negotiations between city officials and potential third-party entities that would help construct and operate the struggling $9.2 billion rail project remain shrouded in mystery, even to members of the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation, who sought to get some answers Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Judge intervenes in prison housing for alleged crime boss Mike Miske. A Honolulu businessman accused of leading a violent organized crime ring was segregated from other inmates at a detention center beyond the 14-days of quarantine to protect against the spread of COVID-19, until a U.S. judge intervened. Associated Press.

Bill would allow for more group living facilities. A bill allowing certain group living facilities to be exempted from needing to be 1,000 feet from each other was approved tentatively by the City Council Zoning, Planning and Housing Committee on Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii investor buys second Waikiki apartment property. The Hawaii investor who recently closed on the purchase of the fee-simple ground lease beneath the leasehold Laniakea Apartments in Waikiki also bought the High Tide Apartments, a small multifamily building next door, last month for $3 million. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Hilo a virus hot spot. State officials confirmed that as of Wednesday there were 94 active coronavirus cases in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

Number of COVID-19 patients hospitalized on Hawaii Island could soon test capacity. Since the pandemic began in March, the Big Island has reported a total of 253 cases. This week, though, the island has reported consecutive days of double-digit new cases. Hawaii News Now.

14 COVID-19 Patients Being Treated at HMC. The Hilo Medical Center reports a slight uptick of one COVID-19 patient now hospitalized in its facility bringing the total to 14. Big Island Now.

Planning director sends employees home: Close contacts of two employees test positive for COVID-19. The county Planning Department office in Hilo was closed to the public and operating Thursday with just two officials at the oars after close contacts of two employees tested positive for coronavirus. West Hawaii Today.

Map Tracks All The Places County “Bug Busters” Have Cleaned. The County provided interactive map that tracks the Bug Busters spraying locations. The map marks “essential businesses”, water spigots, bus shelters, and disinfection areas. Big Island Video News.

As jury service questionnaires are appearing in Big Island mailboxes amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Third Circuit Chief Judge Robert D.S. Kim offered assurance the Judiciary is doing everything possible to keep jurors safe. West Hawaii Today.

‘It’s the best we can do’: Courthouse manages influx of District Court cases amid pandemic. A line of people stretched from the entrance of Keahuolu Courthouse to the parking lot as 129 people waited to be checked in for Thursday morning’s Kona District Court calendar. West Hawaii Today.

Fixing Century-Old Breakwater Could Bring Marine Life Back To Hilo Bay. Hawaii County officials want the Army Corps of Engineers to do a new study that could pave the way for improved water quality. Civil Beat.

Maui

Contact tracing on Maui meeting need; more testing likely on horizon. Contact tracers in Maui County are “not overwhelmed” and increased testing may be on the horizon in the battle to contain the COVID-19 pandemic, Maui County Health Department officials said Wednesday. Maui News.

Prosecutors oppose release of about half on inmate list. Supreme Court order calls for freeing of inmates due to COVID-19. The Maui County prosecutor’s office is opposing the release of 53 inmates or about half the number eligible for release under a state Supreme Court order issued this week to address jail overcrowding amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Maui News.

=====

Pretrial detainee scales fence, escapes from Maui Community Correctional Center. A pretrial detainee from Maui Community Correctional Center escaped from the facility this evening, the state Department of Public Safety reported. Star-Advertiser.

Pre-trial detainee held on theft, drug charges escapes from MCCC. A pre-trial detainee being held on a slew of theft and drug charges escaped from the Maui Community Correctional Center on Thursday night, according to the state Department of Public Safety. Hawaii News Now.

Police searching for prisoner who escaped Maui Community Correction Center Thursday night. Police are asking the public’s help regarding the whereabouts of an escaped male prisoner from Maui Community Correction Center on Aug. 27. KHON2.

=====

Employee of Maui Police Department Tests Positive for COVID-19. An employee at the Maui Police Department has tested positive for COVID-19, according to a department press release. Maui Now.

Probation officer seeks telework due to COVID-19 risk. A senior probation officer, who was exposed to COVID-19 at work, is hoping the state Judiciary reexamines options for officers to work from home and to limit the number of workers in the Kahului office. Maui News.

Kauai

Keeping COVID spread at bay on Kaua‘i. While there have not been any new cases reported on Kaua‘i in about a week, yesterday, Mayor Derek Kawakami announced that the most recent case reported on the island had no known travel connection, and has been categorized community spread. Garden Island.

PUC says KIUC can’t cut off electricity for non-payment. In light of continued economic hardship for some members caused by the coronavirus pandemic, the state Public Utilities Commission has ordered the continued suspension of service disconnections for Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative members. Garden Island.

Hawaii poverty rate drops, legislators probe AI impacts, first vape lung case reported, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki sidewalk scene © 2019 All Hawaii News

High Costs Make Hawaii’s Poverty Rate Higher Than U.S. Average. New census data shows that the poverty rate is down from last year but that Hawaii residents still struggle with the high costs of housing and other necessities. Civil Beat.

Lawmakers discuss how artificial intelligence could impact Hawaii's workforce. Unite Here Local 5 tell KITV, members are concerned front desk positions will be among the first positions to go. KITV.

=====

Teen hospitalized with Hawaii’s first suspected case of vaping-linked respiratory illness. A teenage girl on the Big Island is hospitalized with what state health officials fear is the first case of a vaping-linked severe respiratory illness in Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

Health officials investigating state’s first vaping-related illness in Big Island youth. The Department of Health issued a warning Tuesday after a Hawaii island youth was hospitalized for a “serious lung injury” that may be linked to the use of e-cigarettes. Star-Advertiser.

State DOH investigating lung injury; incident could be related to vaping. A Big Island youth has a serious lung injury possibly related to the use of electronic smoking devices, or vaping, said state health officials Tuesday. Tribune-Herald.

Possible Severe Respiratory Illness From Vaping Investigated In Hawaii. The Hawai‘i Department of Health is investigating a case of severe respiratory illness related to e-cigarette use, state officials say. Big Island Video News.

Vaping Disease, Possible First Case in Hawaii. DOH is investigating the first report of this possible case in a Hawaii Island resident under the age of 18 years. Big Island Now.

Hawaii investigates vaping illness. The Hawaii Department of Health is investigating the state’s first report of a possible case of vaping-associated severe respiratory illness in a resident under the age of 18 on Hawaii Island. Garden Island.

State investigates first possible case of vaping-associated lung illness. The serious lung injury was reported earlier this week and health officials are aggressively gathering patient information to determine the cause of the illness. KHON2.

High percentage of high school teens vaping illegally. By Hawaii state law, it is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to have or use vaping products. However, studies show Hawaii has some of the highest numbers when it comes to underage users. KHON2.

=====

Hawaii Students Feel Safer At School, But Not Everywhere. The 2018-19 School Climate Survey from the Hawaii Department of Education shows a wide discrepancy in student safety responses among public high schools. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Leaders of a wind farm project on Oahu’s North Shore seek compromise but residents say ‘no more’. Another wind farm company tried to make a good impression on Oahu's North Shore Tuesday, but the critics aren't budging. Hawaii News Now.

State leaders and developers celebrated the completion of the largest block of grid-scale solar power in the state. Clearway Energy Group turned on the power at projects in Kawailoa, Waipio and Mililani on Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

Developer breaks ground on Waikiki rental tower. Dene Oliver, chief vision officer of mixed-use development for Canadian-­based Brookfield Properties, said the 28-story tower with 402 mostly market-priced apartments will feature a full-service grocery store affiliated with Foodland Farms, other retail tenants and a garden around an existing banyan tree at the Kuhio Avenue site occupied by a Food Pantry store and other businesses until recently. Star-Advertiser.

State’s largest solar block goes online. The sun was shining brightly in Mili­lani on Tuesday as officials welcomed the the state’s largest collection of solar farms, a trio of sun-powered projects that will generate enough electricity to light up nearly 18,000 homes. Star-Advertiser.

New cash smuggling allegations raised against Filipino mega-church officials. Felina Salinas, a Hawaii manager for the Kingdom of Jesus Christ Church, has been charged with trying to smuggle more than $300,000 in cash from Hawaii to the Philippines last year on the private jet of the church’s founder, Apollo Quiboloy. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Big Island mayor floats plan to transfer Mauna Kea governance. Hawaii county Mayor Harry Kim is proposing a long-range Mauna Kea management plan that would transfer governance of the mountain away from the University of Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

Kim Proposes Giving Native Hawaiians A Say In Managing Mauna Kea. The Hawaii County mayor’s plan would make the University of Hawaii share management with other groups in an umbrella agency. Gov. David Ige says he supports the idea but many details must be worked out. Civil Beat.

Hawaii to receive $12M in federal funds for roads damaged by eruption. Hawaii will receive more than than $12 million in federal funds to repair damaged roads, the U.S. Department of Transportation announced Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

Jury selection starts in accomplice case. Jury selection began Tuesday for the trial of three accomplices accused of aiding suspected cop killer Justin Waiki. West Hawaii Today.

Some vacation rental owners bow out before Sept. 30 permit application deadline. The deadline for vacation rental owners to apply for a permit to continue to operate draws near, but some owners already threw in the towel. Tribune-Herald.

The University of Hawaii at Hilo is the most ethnically diverse college campus, according to new rankings by U.S. News & World Report. Students at UH Hilo in fall 2018 reported being 22.4 percent Asian, 36.1 percent Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander, 22.5 percent white and 13.9 percent of two or more races. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Maui Schools on List of Those With Largest Enrollment. Maui High School was the fifth largest in the state with 2,082 students; Maui Waena is the fifth largest intermediate school in the state with 1,162 students; Kahului is the fourth largest elementary school with 933 students and Kīhei Charter School is the fifth largest charter school in the state with 689 students. Maui Now.

Maui sushi bar shut down by inspectors due to roaches, rats. State health officials announced Tuesday that a red placard has been issued to Asian Cuisine & Sushi Bar in Kahului, Maui, closing it down for extensive rodent and pest infestations. Star-Advertiser.

Red “Closed” Placard Issued to Asian Cuisine & Sushi Bar on Maui. The Hawaii Department of Health Sanitation Branch has posted a red “Closed” placard at Asian Cuisine & Sushi Bar located at 65 West Kaahumanu Avenue, #23 in Kahului on Maui for an “extensive rodent and pest infestation". Maui Now.

MECO set to take over 4 EVohana fast-charging sites. Number is 4 less than utility originally planned in March. Maui News.


Kauai

Rezoning the South Shore. A bill to be discussed at today’s county council meeting is essentially restoring the zoning of specific areas on the South Shore back to what it was before. Garden Island.

Kahoolawe

Kahoolawe trolling set this weekend. Trolling in the waters of the Kahoolawe Island Reserve will be allowed Saturday and Sunday and Sept. 28-29, according to the Kahoolawe Island Reserve Commission. Maui News.

Hawaii wins 3 of 10 TripAdvisor top spots, ballot issues plague Honolulu election, pay raises for state, Kauai, volcano alert lowered, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii luau dancers 2019 All Hawaii News

Hawaii makes TripAdvisor top 10 Travelers' Choice Destinations in the U.S. Three Hawaii islands were named among the top destinations in the country to travel to. According to TripAdvisor, Maui was the second top choice, followed by Oahu at third, and the Big Island as 10. KHON2.

HDOT audit finds discrepancies. The Hawaii Department of Transportation’s Highways Division in fiscal year 2018 did not review capital improvement projects in a timely manner, incorrectly classified federal expenditures and violated cash management requirements by drawing funds from a federal agency prior to paying a subcontractor, according to a report issued by the Hawaii State Auditor’s Office. Garden Island.

Our Care, Our Choice Act Part 2: Some patients are pushing to get the law changed. The assisted suicide bill passed in the Legislature and became law, in order for patients to get their life-ending prescription they need to request it from their doctor on three separate occasions. KITV.

State commission proposes pay raises for elected officials. Some leading lawmakers are supporting new recommendations by the state Salary Commission that would grant all members of the Legislature raises of 10 percent in 2021 and would further boost lawmakers’ salaries in additional steps over the following three years. Star-Advertiser.

Recruitment begins today for Conservation and Resource Enforcement Officers to fill vacancies across the state.  The positions do not require any previous law enforcement experience, however, there are limited spaces available. Maui Now.

Public Safety admits less-lethal options are on hand — but not for use in the field. The state has purchased at least 35 less lethal guns and eight pepperball guns in the last two years. But none of the less lethal options are available for use by deputies on patrol. Hawaii News Now.

Amid growing concerns that a new crisis is brewing between China and Taiwan, independence-leaning Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen is in Honolulu for an always controversial yet short visit. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Residents report more ballot abnormalities in hotly contested City Council race. The special election for east Honolulu’s City Council seat is causing confusion after several ballots were mailed to people who no longer live in Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

Rocky start to Special Election mail-in ballots raises eyebrows with some voters. Residents we spoke to are concerned because if extra ballots were to be in the hands of the wrong person, there might be an opportunity for some to vote twice. KHON2.

'Gross incompetence or worse’: Rail purchase of reinforced steel questioned. The federal grand jury that’s investigating the rail project is looking into how the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation spent millions of dollars to buy reinforced steel. Hawaii News Now.

Some West Oahu residents push for a bypass road to help ease traffic troubles. The alternate route would also be a lifeline in times of accidents or emergencies. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

We’re another day older and deeper in debt. The lyrics to the song made famous by Tennessee Ernie Ford continue to hold true today, as Hawaii County finds its debt load continuing to creep upward. West Hawaii Today.

Kilauea volcano is now the quietest it has been in about four decades. The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory lowered the volcano’s alert level Tuesday from “advisory” to “normal,” noting it has returned to a noneruptive, background state following last year’s lower East Rift Zone eruption. Tribune-Herald.

Today, the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory officially lowered the Kilauea Volcano Alert Level for ground-based hazards from ADVISORY to NORMAL, and the Aviation Color Code from YELLOW to GREEN. Big Island Video News.

Project leaders review draft EIS for wastewater treatment plant with public. West Hawaii Today.

Kona Pacific fights back against commission’s findings. A Kealakekua charter school is demanding the state commission that oversees charter schools rescind a vote kicking off a process that could close the school. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui County Mayor Michael Victorino proposed Monday a $781 million no-frills budget for the next fiscal year, which includes property tax, trash pickup and water rate increases; additional property tax money for affordable housing; and opening the Central Maui Landfill one Sunday per month, but it contains no new major capital improvement initiatives. Maui News.

Maui Car Rental Facility, Electric Train on Schedule to Open May 15. A major project at Maui’s Kahului Airport in less than two months from completion. Maui Now.

New Paia Elementary building up for environmental review. Structure would be located at the front of the school next to the cafeteria. Maui News.

Kauai

The county’s top officials might be getting a raise. Kauai County Councilmembers today will consider a proposal to increase their own salaries along those of 30 county executives, including the mayor, the managing director, the police and fire chiefs. Garden Island.

A federal jury on Friday awarded over $700,000 in damages to a Kauai resident who sued Wilcox Memorial Hospital after an incident in which hospital employees injected the man against his will with a high-dose cocktail of strong antipsychotic drugs that left him incapacitated for months after the incident. Garden Island.

Kauai Family Demands New Policies, Protections for Kuleana Landowners. In the wake of a closely watched kuleana land auction of part of Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg's estate last week, one faction of the family caught up in the property dispute is calling for change. Hawaii Public Radio.

Coco Palms resort for sale again. Coco Palms, featured in the 1961 Elvis Presley movie “Blue Hawaii,” has been closed since Hurricane Iniki slammed into Kauai in 1992, causing extensive damage to the property. Star-Advertiser.

Coco Palms Resort is up for sale again. The property is owned by Coco Palm Hui LLC, who had planned to re-open the resort after it closed due to damages caused by Hurricane Iniki. KHON2.

Election reform, involuntary psychiatric commitment, fireworks bills advance in Legislature, state auditor cancels rail contract, battle over taxpayer-funded ex-police chief defense, heavy metals found near East Hawaii schools, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Keiki day at the Capitol PC:House Majority Office

Keiki rallied at the Capitol Wednesday for children's issues. Advocates rallied at the Capitol Wednesday to support active bills regarding children's health, safety and education in the state Legislature. KHON2.

Hawaii parents, pushing to make it more affordable took their message to the State Capitol Wednesday morning calling on lawmakers to invest in our keiki and make early child care and pre-school available for all families. KITV.

=====

Hawaii’s economic growth expected to rebound. The ongoing slow growth of Hawaii’s economy is expected to pick up slightly this year after easing last year, according to a new state forecast. Star-Advertiser.

Economy Projected To Grow At Slower Pace Than U.S. Average. The latest economic growh report, released today by the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism, shows the state economy expanded by 0.7 percent from January to September, lower than the 2.8 percent for the U.S. average over the same time period. Hawaii Public Radio.

Read DBEDT's quarterly economic report.

=====

Hawaii lawmakers pass automatic recount, voter registration. Hawaii lawmakers have passed several bills to make it easier to vote and boost confidence in elections. Associated Press.

The State House of Representatives unveiled its election reform bills that crossed over to the Senate. Hawaii Public Radio.

Lawmakers in both houses of the Hawaii state Legislature appear ready to approve a proposal which would institute automatic recounts in closely contested elections. The legislation, which will require a constitutional amendment approved by voters, was pushed forward at the Capitol as a reaction to the state Supreme Court being thrust into action following the 2018 general election. Hawaii News Now.

Many Climate Change Bills Are Still Alive, Including A Carbon Tax. At the session’s halfway point, several new measures have support. But some current initiatives will expire if action isn’t taken. Civil Beat.

Fireworks bill targets property owners and allows video evidence. The use of illegal aerial fireworks has sky-rocketed in Hawaii. KHON2.

Bill Focuses On Revolving Door Of Involuntary Psychiatric Treatments. The measure would form a task force to find ways to make emergency mental health admissions more efficient, and better protect the public. Civil Beat.

Changes could make it easier to commit mentally ill to treatment. State lawmakers want to change the law, so that more mentally ill people can be forced into treatment. KITV.

Southwest Airlines has new fuel-efficient planes coming that would allow the carrier to add more destinations to its lineup of flights between Hawaii and the mainland, a spokesman said Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Kealoha lawyer seeks city funding for fees. An attorney for former Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha on Wednesday urged the Police Commission to use taxpayer money to pay for the lawyers representing him in two federal criminal cases. Star-Advertiser.

Deadline approaches for City Prosecutor Keith Kaneshiro to respond to petition calling for his suspension. 19 days ago, state Attorney General Clare Connors filed a petition for extraordinary with the Hawaii Supreme Court, writing that Kaneshiro should not be allowed to serve as city prosecutor -- at least for the time being -- given his serious conflicts of interest as the target of a federal probe. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii State Auditor has canceled a contract with a company that was supposed to review change orders for the $9.2 billion Honolulu rail project, and it is unclear whether that report will ever be completed. Star-Advertiser.

Federal Probe Has State Looking To Pull Back On Rail Audits. Proposed legislation would repeal the requirement for more audits. But added scrutiny has already led state finance officials to withhold $40 million from HART. Civil Beat.

A rail station was changed to save money. Now, a do-over could cost millions. Hawaii News Now.

The reason for Oahu’s 20% drop in sheltered homeless? Far fewer shelter beds exist. The sharp decrease -- which led to a 4 percent drop in Oahu’s overall homeless population -- is being blamed on the closure of a transitional shelter shelter in West Oahu and on new government regulations that forced the state’s largest homeless service provider to reduce capacity. Hawaii News Now.

State senator films Maili brush fire, police standoff while riding bus. State Sen. Maile Shimbukuro happened to be riding TheBus home from the state Capitol and took photos of the large brush fire as the bus slowly moved through congested traffic. Star-Advertiser.

Business incubator unveiled in Kakaako. The developer of the “Entrepreneur’s Sandbox” held a blessing for the $7.3 million state-owned business incubation center, which was paid for by federal, state and private funding. Star-Advertiser.

Argosy University Students Advised To Prepare For Possible Friday Closing. Hawaii Public Radio.

Argosy University could close as soon as Friday. KHON2.

Oahu home prices make modest February gains. The Honolulu Board of Realtors on Wednesday released sales data that showed roughly 2 percent increases for median sale prices of single-family homes and condominiums last month. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu home sales drop in February as median price posts gains. Home prices on Oahu posted modest gains in February, compared with a year ago, as sales of single-family homes declined by 4 percent and condominium sales dropped by 17 percent, according to the Honolulu Board of Realtors. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

The state Department of Education and Department of Health are implementing environmental hazard management plans at 18 East Hawaii schools after a study found elevated levels of contaminants such as lead, arsenic and chlordane in the soil at those facilities. Tribune-Herald.

The Department of Education has found elevated levels of lead, arsenic or chlordane in the soil at 18 of the 23 public schools it tested in eastern Hawaii island, mostly around the perimeters of old buildings. Star-Advertiser.

The Big Island’s only jail is going to get larger, but that’s just to better house its current population of inmates, not increase the inmate population. West Hawaii Today.

Opponents Will Try To Stop Geothermal Plant From Reopening. Even though the power facility damaged by last year’s lava flows is expected to be “operational” by year’s end, it’s facing challenges. Civil Beat.

More than a year after plans surfaced and fizzled for a pilot program to manage surf schools at Kahaluu Bay, businesses are still in the dark about how to get permits to teach wave riding at the popular spot. West Hawaii Today.

Home prices on Hawaii's Big Island jump in February. The median price of a single-family home on the Big Island in February was $382,000, an increase of 18.45 percent from $322,500 in February last year. Sales declined to 152 homes sold, 5 percent fewer than the 160 homes sold in February 2018. Pacific Business News.

Maui

Maui County’s state lawmakers were divided over their support of House Bill 1326 as the controversial measure on revocable water permits crossed over to the Senate on Tuesday. Maui News.

More than 15 soon-to-be released or furloughed inmates incarcerated at the Maui Community Correctional Center recently completed approximately 56 hours of workforce industry training from the Office of Extended Learning and Workforce Development at the University of Hawaii Maui College. Maui Now.

Grand Wailea plans appear before design board. Suggestions offered for saving chapel, masking parking structure. Maui News.

Kauai

Taxis in the terminal. A tentative agreement was recently reached between Lihue Airport administrators and taxi drivers who were threatening to strike if their demands for a curbside presence at the terminal continued to be ignored. Garden Island.

Kauai waits for Southwest flights. Flights to and from Kauai haven’t yet been announced. Tuesday, Southwest Airlines spokesman Brad Hawkins said that’s in the works. Garden Island.

Home sales on Kauai drop in February. There were only 26 single-family homes sold on Kauai last month, a 50.94 percent drop from 53 homes sold in February 2018. The median price of those homes was $689,000, a 4.97 percent decline from $725,000 in February 2018. Pacific Business News.

Molokai

Maui County wants to hold Molokai event to obtain, renew TWIC credentials. People who pick up shipments at state harbors, such as Kaunakakai Harbor, need to present a TWIC card, and the County of Maui Office of Economic Development is stepping up to offer an event to help people obtain or renew this credential. TWIC stands for Transportation Worker Identification Credential. KHON2.

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

Feral cat feeding in Hawaii ©2018 All Hawaii News

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

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

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

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

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

Oahu

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hawaii Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

Maui

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

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

Officer Involved Shooting in Wailuku Under Investigation. Maui Now.

Kauai

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

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

Mauna Loa mac nut products recalled, violent crime up, worst state in nation for teachers, trans health report released, rail costs rise, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Mauna Loa mac nuts ©2018 All Hawaii News

Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut recalls products following detection of E. coli. Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut has voluntarily recalled products produced at the company’s Keaau facility between Sept. 6 and 21 due to potential contamination of Eschericia coli (E. coli). Pacific Business News.

Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Corp. is voluntarily recalling all items produced from its facility in Keaau between Sept. 6 and 21 due to potential E. coli contamination, state health officials announced today. Star-Advertiser.

Full list of recalled Mauna Loa products can be found here.

Mauna Loa releases full list of mac nut products recalled over potential E. coli concerns. A variety of Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Company products produced on the Big Island earlier this month have been voluntarily recalled due to potential E. coli contamination, according to the state Department of Health. Hawaii News Now.

Voluntary recall issued for Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut products. A variety of Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut products produced Sept. 6-21 at the company’s Keaau facility were voluntarily recalled because of potential E. coli contamination, the state Department of Health announced Monday. Tribune-Herald.

Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut products have been recalled over possible E. coli contamination. KHON2.

Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut products produced at their Kea'au facility have been recalled, due to possible E. coli contamination. Detection of E. coli was found in the well water and distribution system supplying the facility in Keaau. KITV.

=====

Hawaii’s Crack Seed Shops May Be The Losers In Trump Trade Dispute. The iconic fruit snacks that have been enjoyed for generations were already getting hard to find. Star-Advertiser.

Violent crime ticked up in Hawaii last year, while number of property crimes declined. The number of violent crimes statewide last year ticked up, but the violent crime rate in Hawaii still remains well below the nation, according to newly-released figures from the FBI. Hawaii News Now.

Public sector workers stick to unions. Despite fears of an exodus in the wake of a Supreme Court ruling that government workers cannot be required to contribute to labor unions, Hawaii’s government workers have largely maintained their memberships in public sector unions. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Unions Say Little Has Changed Since Landmark Janus Decision. Union supporters had feared the opinion by U.S. Supreme Court’s conservative majority would erode union membership. Civil Beat.

This Ballot Measure Is Sparking Intense Debate Over Hawaii’s Schools. The proposed constitutional amendment is already one of the most contentious issues to go before voters in the 2018 election. Civil Beat.

Some school officials are getting a raise thanks to a Hawaii Board of Education decision to increase of wages for the deputy superintendent, assistant superintendents and complex area superintendents. Garden Island.

Study: Hawaii is Worst State in Nation for Teachers. Hawaii is ranked last in the nation, claiming the undesirable distinction as the worst state for teachers, according to a new study released today by the personal-finance website WalletHub. Maui Now.

Hawaii named worst state for teachers in U.S. Hawaii has been named the worst state for teachers in the country, according to a new study. Pacific Business News.

Trans youth at higher risk for health problems. Transgender youth in Hawaii are significantly more likely to use tobacco, alcohol and other drugs than their non-transgender peers, resulting in greater health issues, a new state report shows. Star-Advertiser.

Department of Health publishes first report focused on Hawaii transgender youth. KHON2.

The Hawaii Department of Health today released the Hawaii Sexual and Gender Minority Health Report 2018. This is the first state report with a special focus on health issues faced by Hawaii transgender youth. Three percent, or 1,260 public high school students statewide, self-identify as transgender. Maui Now.

The colorful pa'u riders are one of the most unique features of any parade here in the Hawaiian Islands. Draped in yards of brightly colored fabric and decked in lei, pa'u riders continue an old equestrian tradition. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

FTA tells HART to find extra $134M for rail. Honolulu must increase the official price tag for construction of the 20-mile rail project by another $134 million for the Federal Transit Administration to be satisfied that the city has enough money to complete the project, according to Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation Executive Director Andrew Robbins. Star-Advertiser.

HART CEO optimistic after meeting FTA officials. KHON2.

These Two City Council Candidates Are Political Worlds Apart. In the shadow of Honolulu rail, one envisions a future built around train stations. The other wants to rein in runaway rail spending. Civil Beat.

Upon closer inspection, corrosion may be eating away at Red Hill storage tanks. A new study suggests that the Navy's massive Red Hill fuel tanks are in worse shape than initially thought. Hawaii News Now.

A Pedestrian-Bicycle Bridge Crossing Proposed for Ala Wai Canal. The Ala Pono project is exploring the possibility of building a new bicycle and pedestrian bridge across the Ala Wai Canal. Hawaii Public Radio.

A large crowd gathered Monday night at Ala Wai Elementary School as residents heard from Mayor Kirk Caldwell about plans to build a bridge between the Waikiki, Ala Moana and McCully neighborhoods. KITV.

Sidewalk bill would also apply to mobile kiosk vendors. The debate over a bill that bars people from obstructing public sidewalks has focused largely on what it means for the homeless who camp there. Star-Advertiser.

HPD, city investigating claim DMV worker made unwanted advances during road test. Both the Honolulu Police Department and the city are investigating a sex assault claim made against a city DMV worker. KHON2.

More than 14K pounds of debris cleared from Makua in massive cleanup. An army of volunteers helped pull off the biggest beach cleanup in Makua history. Hawaii News Now.

Waipio raw sewage spill did not reach ocean, city officials say. City officials say a break to a wastewater force main late Saturday caused about 614,400 gallons of raw sewage to spill onto undeveloped Navy land near the Waipio Soccer Complex in Waipahu. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu ABC affiliate KITV's HQ for sale with no asking price. The commercial condominium unit at One Archer Lane, home to Honolulu ABC affiliate KITV, is on the market for sale with no asking price. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Public invited to provide input on Maunakea administrative rules. Monday, kicked off the first of four public hearings to discuss proposed rules for public and commercial activities atop Mauna Kea. KHON2.

Dozens attended a public hearing, on Monday evening, to weigh in on a set of proposed rules meant to regulate public and commercial activities on UH-managed lands atop Maunakea. KITV.

New UH-Hilo dorm struggling to fill. Preliminary numbers show a dip in the occupancy rate for the University of Hawaii at Hilo’s newest dormitory, Hale Alahonua, which has struggled to reach capacity since it opened in fall 2013. Tribune-Herald.

Robert Lindsey Gifts Sonny Kaniho Book To OHA. Staff handed out copies of Lindsey’s book, Sonny Kaniho: A Profile in Hawaiian Courage, which chronicles Kaniho’s efforts to bring about change and reform within the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands. Big Island Video News.

Forum set for developmentally disabled advocacy in West Hawaii. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Bond sale garners $113.9M for county. $12.1 million will be used to prepay and refund existing higher interest rate loans and bonds. Maui News.

Maui Family Support Services will receive a $1 million federal grant to support its Quality Care for Hawaiian Keiki Project, U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz announced Tuesday. Maui News.

Genetic testing offers hope to catch some cancers early. Napili retreat allows survivors to share their stories, learn healthy living alternatives. Maui News.

Kauai

Officials are throwing the spotlight on marine law enforcement with a new report called StoryMap, detailing and mapping nine completed marine protection investigations in Hawaii. Three of the nine cases are on Kauai, and they all involve monk seals. Garden Island.

It’s been months since historic flooding wreaked havoc on Kauai, but the impact of the flood-waters is still being felt by those living in the hardest hit communities on the island. Garden Island.