Showing posts with label sex scandal. Show all posts
Showing posts with label sex scandal. Show all posts

Friday, April 26, 2019

Trump Jones Act waiver could save Hawaii shipping billions, scrambling at state Capitol as legislative session nears end, UH volleyball coach Wade accused of sexual misconduct, Maui mulls $832M budget, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Matson shipping courtesy photo
Possible Trump waiver to Jones Act watched closely. The Trump administration is said to be considering a 10-year waiver to the Jones Act to allow foreign-flagged vessels to deliver natural gas to Puerto Rico — and possibly nationwide — creating the latest dust-up over the controversial century-old maritime law. Star-Advertiser.

A Flurry Of Deal-Making At The Hawaii Legislature As End Of Session Looms. Stay tuned. More decisions are coming Friday, the deadline for bills to clear conference committee. Civil Beat.

State Senate poised to accept a proposal to allow vacation rental platforms to collect Hawaii taxes. The state Senate appears poised to accept a bill tonight that would authorize vacation rental platforms such as Airbnb to collect taxes on behalf of the state, a development that triggered a last-minute lobbying push at the state Capitol today by the hotel industry and the hospitality workers union Unite HERE Local 5 to try to block the measure. Star-Advertiser.

Bill to Expand DUI Law Dies. State lawmakers chose to kill a bill that proposed expanding Hawaii’s impaired driving laws after they failed to reach an agreement on the measure in the waning hours of conference committee hearings Thursday. Civil Beat.

Stricter DUI penalties may be on the horizon. The Legislature is set to pass a bill that would significantly stiffen penalties for drunken driving offenses, including making it a felony if a driver is convicted three times of driving under the influence within 10 years — a charge that carries the possibility of up to five years’ imprisonment. Star-Advertiser.

State lawmakers agreed to $19.7 million of extra funds for positions and other programs at state departments over the next two fiscal years. The agreement reached Thursday in House Bill 116 is in addition to a $16 billion spending plan lawmakers approved in March. Civil Beat.

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Funding passes for multiple construction projects. Hawaii lawmakers unveiled a state construction budget for the next two years that totals more than $3.4 billion in projects to be funded with state, federal and other funds, including injections of funding into affordable housing, airport projects and school construction. Star-Advertiser.

$3.4 billion budget agreed for renovations, repairs, construction, land acquisition statewide. Over $3.4 billion was agreed on by the House Finance and Senate Ways and Means Conference Committee today. The bill for the 2020-2021 fiscal years will now move to the full House and Senate for a final vote. KHON2.

House & Senate Committee Agree on $3.4 Billion CIP Budget. The bill now moves to the full House and Senate for a final vote. Big Island Now.

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Fight Over Coffee Labeling Stalls at State Capitol. Hawaii’s coffee farmers have failed again to gain additional protections for their crop. Hawaii Public Radio.

Internal affairs case opened after Public Safety’s head trainer accused of puffing up resume. The Public Safety Department has launched an internal investigation the head of training for more than 1,000 deputy sheriffs and corrections officers statewide. Hawaii News Now.

As HMSA Changes Doctors' Pay To Lower Costs, State Isn't Monitoring. Some of Hawaii doctors say they are struggling financially under the Hawaii Medical Service Association's new payment model, arguing it is exacerbating the state's serious physician shortage and extending wait times for patients. Hawaii Public Radio.

The leadership team of the Sovereign Council of Hawaiian Homestead Associations held a roundtable with Lieutenant Governor Josh Green on April 23, 2019 at the State Capitol. Lieutenant Governor Josh Green asked Hawaiian homeland leaders to identify two sites per island where his office and homestead associations can collaborate to build kauhale, or transitional group homes and affordable rentals. Maui Now.

Ed Case: Some PAC Money Is OK As Long As He Knows Where It’s Coming From. As Democrats renounce corporate PACs, the Hawaii congressman still takes their cash so long as their interests align with his own. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Hawaii Volleyball Coach Accused Of Sexual Misconduct. A nonprofit organization that investigates sexual misconduct for the U.S. Olympic Committee has been looking into allegations that University of Hawaii men's volleyball coach Charlie Wade engaged in sexual misconduct with a former female player. Associated Press.

University of Hawaii stands by volleyball coach accused of misconduct. The University of Hawaii is standing by volleyball coach Charlie Wade as it reviews allegations of misconduct against him. Star-Advertiser.

'Bows volleyball coach ‘strongly denies’ allegations of sexual misconduct. The head coach of the University of Hawaii men’s volleyball team “strongly denies” decades-old allegations of sexual misconduct that have resurfaced in recent days. Hawaii News Now.

UH Manoa responds to allegations against men's volleyball coach. A week ahead of the National Championship tournament, UH men's volleyball head coach Charlie Wade is accused of possible misconduct against a female athlete. KHON2.

UH men's volleyball head coach under investigation for sexual misconduct. Trouble for the head coach of the top-ranked UH Manoa men's volleyball team. Charlie Wade's under investigation by the U.S. Center for SafeSport regarding an allegation of misconduct with a female athlete. KITV.

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Cost of repairing convention center’s roof soars to $50M. That’s almost double what Hawaii Tourism Authority had anticipated it would cost to complete the circa-1998 center’s largest deferred maintenance project. Star-Advertiser.

Waimanalo split over changes to park. Waimanalo residents are being asked to show up at a community meeting tonight to voice support or opposition for athletic fields and other planned improvements at the 75-acre Waimanalo Bay Beach Park, also known as Sherwood Forest. Star-Advertiser.

Estranged wife sues Honolulu police officer and HPD. The estranged wife of a Honolulu police sergeant charged with abuse has filed a civil lawsuit against him and the Police Department. Star-Advertiser.

Over 8 years, nearly 62,000 more people left Oahu for other counties than came in. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Lifeguards have been funded for Kua Bay. Six years after legislators began the effort to bring full-time life-saving personnel to the North Kona state beach known for its beauty and danger, funding was included in the state budget for lifeguards at Kua Bay. West Hawaii Today.

Cardiac funding bill stalls. A bill that would further fund Hilo Medical Center’s interventional cardiac program has stalled in the final stages of the legislative process. Tribune-Herald.

Charter Commission rejects special election. Citing the cost and prospect of a low turnout, the Charter Commission on Thursday rejected the idea of a special election devoted to charter amendments. West Hawaii Today.

Here’s how to watch Merrie Monarch 2019 on air or online. The biggest event in the hula community is here. This week, hula halau across the state will take the stage and compete for top honors in three nights of competition at Merrie Monarch 2019. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

Council committee releases $832M budget and tax proposals. Budget invests in environmental programs, tourism impacts, is $51M more than mayor’s. Maui News.

Maui County hotels led the state overall in revenue per available room at $337, with an average daily rate of $428 and an occupancy rate of 78.6%. The first quarter of 2019 data was compiled in the latest Hawaii Hotel Performance Report published by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Maui Now.

Kauai


Tourism takes downward turn. Kauai had 123,730 visitors in March, down 1.3 percent from March 2018. For the first three months of the year, Kauai has welcomed 333,961 visitors, down 1.4 percent from the first three months of 2018. Garden Island.

Friday, December 1, 2017

Tourists flocking to Hawaii, nuclear attack siren test today, state tax officials told consultant to alter report, Jim Nabors mourned, Uber and Lyft allowed to pickup at Honolulu airport, Kauai natives claim title, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2017 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Waikiki beach beauties © 2017 All Hawaii News
Hawaii posts solid tourism gains in October. Hawaii tourism continued its blistering pace in October, kicking off the fourth quarter ahead of forecasts with further gains expected. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii sees big gains in tourism spending. Visitor spending in Hawaii increased 4.4 percent last month to $1.3 billion, while year-to-date spending rose 6.8 percent to $13.8 billion, according to preliminary statistics released Thursday by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Pacific Business News.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority says the number of visitors to the state rose nearly 3 percent in October compared to the year before. Associated Press.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority says the number of visitors to the state rose nearly 3 percent in October compared to the year before. Garden Island.

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Emergency sirens will blast new ‘attack’ warning in first test. Today, sirens will blast in wavering unison to a sound not heard in Hawaii since the Cold War — an “attack warning.” Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Revives Cold War Relic: Test System For Nuke Attack. The siren will be tested Friday. It includes a wailing sound in the middle to distinguish it from the storm siren. Civil Beat.

Get ready, Hawaii. For the first time since the Cold War, an "attack warning" siren with a wavering tone will sound Friday across the state. Associated Press.

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Firm says state tax officials told it to alter report on $60M computer project. A consultant hired by the state to oversee the $60 million modernization of the Department of Taxation’s computer systems was instructed by state tax officials on which subjects “should and should not” be addressed in its supposedly independent monitoring reports to lawmakers and the public, according to a new report. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii has a critical need for more infant and toddler care, and some rural areas are “child care deserts” with few options for working parents, according to a report released Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Study: Child care in Hawaii is pricey and in short supply. Hawaii News Now.

Emotions 101: Why Hawaii Schools Are Focusing On Feelings. Hawaii schools have joined a growing educational movement that emphasizes “whole child” development, not just academics. Civil Beat.

Among Kamehameha Schools alums, no consensus on how to handle sex abuse case. Hawaii News Now.

A state program helping Hawaii consumers and businesses conserve electricity said it delivered record energy savings last fiscal year despite a 29 percent budget cut and fewer incentives. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines will unveil two changes today by launching a new meal program in the main cabin for its North American routes and debuting uniforms by Hilo-based designer Sig Zane across its network. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s 2017 hurricane season officially ended Thursday as one of the quietest yet. Tribune-Herald.

Jim Nabors, 87, dies at Diamond Head home. Hawaii friends of beloved entertainer Jim Nabors say he wasn’t far removed from the gentle, amiable television character, Gomer Pyle, that first brought him fame in the 1960s. Star-Advertiser.

Legendary singer and actor Jim Nabors being remembered around the world. He died at his Diamond Head home early Thursday morning at the age of 87. KITV.

'It wasn't a facade': Friends, fans remember Jim Nabors' talent, wit and folksy charm. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

The Honolulu Police Department is reviewing a controversial policy that requires legal marijuana patients to turn in their firearms. Star-Advertiser.

A unanimous Hawaii Supreme Court ruled last week that the Honolulu Police Department conducted an illegal search when, acting on an anonymous tip, it made several helicopter flights in October 2012 over a Waipahu home and spotted a number of marijuana plants growing alongside the house. Civil Beat.

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Uber, Lyft OK’d to pick up at airport. Several Hawaii taxicab companies are objecting to an agreement between the state Department of Transportation and ride-hailing services to allow pickups at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu. Star-Advertiser.

Starting Friday, ride-hailing services Uber and Lyft will be able to pick up passengers at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. Civil Beat.

Uber and Lyft have been granted a temporary three-month permit beginning Friday to pick up passengers from the Honolulu International Airport for a pilot program announced Thursday by the Hawaii Department of Transportation. Pacific Business News.

Starting Dec. 1, Uber and Lyft can pick you up at the airport. KITV.

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Rent for a 2-bedroom apartment in Honolulu drops 11%, Zumper report finds. The median rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Honolulu is $2,110, which is 11 percent less than the same time last year, when it was $2,370, according to the Zumper report, which analyzed rental data from more than 1 million active listings in the U.S. available in the month prior to publication. Pacific Business News.

City to spend $46M to replace street lamps with energy-efficient LEDs. The city is finally ready to kick off a project to convert all 53,500 street lights on Oahu to energy-efficient LED lamps. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu is going to get brighter. The city plans to convert 53,000 street lights island-wide into LED lights. KITV.

City’s bright idea aims to save millions of tax dollars each year. KHON2.

KouWork, a co-working space that recently opened in the ground floor of a two-story, 6,000-square-foot building at 814 Ilaniwai St., has brought in such tenants as The Wedding Café, Brue Bar and its parent company, HonBlue. Pacific Business News.

Stevenson teacher wins $100,000 to set up campus technology hub. Hundreds of students erupted in raucous cheers at Stevenson Middle School as teacher Patricia Morgan was named Thursday as a national winner of a $100,000 grant to set up an “Imaginerium” on campus. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island


The Hawaii Police Department has a letter it sends to medical marijuana patients seeking a gun permit that’s similar to a letter sent by the Honolulu Police Department which has cannabis advocates up in arms, so to speak. Tribune-Herald.

Hilo selected as one of the best places for snowbirds. Hilo has been named among the “20 best places for snowbirds this winter” by the travel site Expedia. Tribune-Herald.

Two California men who posted photos of themselves on social media holding an endangered green sea turtle have been fined. KHON2.

A man and woman were arrested on drug charges after a search of a homeless housing unit Tuesday afternoon. West Hawaii Today.

Flood Warning Prompts Shelter Opening, East Hawaii Parks Closed. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Maui Police Captain Enters Not Guilty Plea in Sex Assault Case. Maui Police Capt. Stephen Orikasa was charged with fourth degree Sex Assault for an alleged incident reported in October 2017. Maui Now.

Councilmember Yuki Lei Sugimura will introduce a resolution at the Maui County Council’s meeting on Friday, Dec. 1, urging the Governor and the State Legislature to mandate the Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement, to proactively administer the state statute relating to the preservation of historic properties and native Hawaiian burials. Maui Now.

Work continues on Lahaina bypass extension. Maui News.

Visitor spending on Maui grew (+7.6% to $368.3 million) in October 2017, boosted by increased daily spending (+5.6% to $219 per person) and growth in visitor days (+1.9%), according to preliminary data released today by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Maui Now.

Hospice Maui’s new land parcel blessed. Maui News.

Kauai

More than 20 people claim interest in quiet title suit. Judge Randal Valenciano’s courtroom was full on Thursday as more than 50 people filed in to be a part of quiet title proceedings related to land on Kauai’s Westside. Garden Island.

Postal service pledges vigilance as Kauai woman sentenced for drug packages. A Kauai woman was sentenced Thursday to 10 years in prison for smuggling drugs in the mail. KHON2.

Tuesday, November 28, 2017

Inouye, Kamehameha Schools sex scandals revisited, huge raises for Hawaii County officials, no new landfill for Oahu, Maui group sues DLNR over boat traffic, mental hospital escapee fights extradition, Kauai whale beaching hearing held, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2017 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
File photo: late U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye © 2017 All Hawaii News
Would Dan Inouye Have Survived 1992 Sex Allegations Today? Accusations against the revered Hawaii senator didn’t generate much of a public outcry 25 years ago. Civil Beat.

The Kamehameha Schools administration in the 1990s dropped the ball by not investigating allegations of sexual abuse against a psychiatrist who had treated hundreds of students from the late 1950s to the early 1980s, a board member from that period told the Honolulu Star-Advertiser on Monday. Star-Advertiser.

Kamehameha Schools sex abuse victims: 'Monster' stole our childhoods. Hawaii News Now.

Kamehameha Schools responds to sex abuse scandal. Hawaii News Now.

PHOTOS: Hidden Betrayal: Kamehameha Schools Scandal. Hawaii News Now.

‘Attack’ siren to sound Friday. Schoolchildren statewide won’t be scurrying for shelter Friday when officials sound an “attack warning” siren in the first test of its kind in decades. Star-Advertiser.

State Hospital escapee fights extradition to Hawaii. Hawaii State Hospital escapee Randall Saito today contested extradition to Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Island Air just one of several airport tenants that owe the state rent money. KHON2.

Craigslist: Where Desperate Hawaii Renters Plead For Help. Online postings show the dire straits would-be renters face in one of the nation’s most expensive housing markets. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Project to provide 160 homes for Native Hawaiians. More than 100 Native Hawaiians are inching closer to homeownership as the state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands works to complete a long-planned subdivision in Kapolei. Star-Advertiser.

The judge in the federal criminal case against former Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha, his prosecutor wife, Katherine Kealoha, and four former members of the Honolulu Police Department’s Criminal Intelligence Unit has pushed back the trial by six months. Star-Advertiser.

New Kealoha Defense Tactic: Going After ‘Mainland Prosecutors’ A federal judge pushed back the trial date until June due to the complexity of the case and sheer volume of the evidence. Civil Beat.

City wants to extend landfill’s life. The city will move forward with its plan to continue using the Waimanalo Gulch Sanitary Landfill into the near future with the hope that it won’t need a new location down the line, Mayor Kirk Caldwell announced Monday. Star-Advertiser.

Despite new rankings for alternate landfills, mayor opposes opening new site. The city released a consultant's report on Monday that includes new rankings for the 11 sites identified as possible alternatives to the Waimanalo Gulch Sanitary Landfill. Hawaii News Now.

A new report shows the Waimanalo Gulch Landfill may only have 20-years left, but Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell said Monday afternoon, he does not want another landfill on Oahu. KITV.

Accessory dwellings touted as alternative to ‘monster’ homes. The leader of the Honolulu Board of Realtors said Oahu homeowners looking to help family, friends or even strangers with housing should look into the idea of creating an accessory dwelling unit on their properties. Star-Advertiser.

Many huge homes not illegal under current city laws. While they’re getting a ramped-up number of complaints from Oahu residents about the large-scale houses that are creeping into their neighborhoods, Honolulu City Council members are learning that existing zoning and building laws allow for much more than people think. Star-Advertiser.

A public hearing will be held Tuesday in the hearing room of the Mission Memorial Building on the Honolulu Hale municipal ground to discuss quiet times at the 17 campsites the city maintains across Oahu. KHON2.

Tempers fray over parking fees, maintenance on private Kakaako roads. Hawaii News Now.

Retail plan near Sharks Cove advances. The public has another opportunity to comment on a developer’s plan to build a “rural” retail complex on Oahu’s North Shore as part of a state environmental review. Star-Advertiser.

Two More Condo And Hotel Towers Proposed For Ala Moana. The city planning department has given the green light to the builders as long as they add more community benefits. Civil Beat.

Ex-officer gets 6-month sentence for seeking sex to fix case. Former University of Hawaii volleyball player and fired Honolulu police officer Maulia LaBarre is going to jail for six months for offering to help a woman get her prostitution case dismissed in exchange for sex. Star-Advertiser.

Ex-Cop Sentenced For Helping Prostitute In Exchange For Sex. Judge cites “abuse of your position of power” in sentencing Maulia LaBarre to six months behind bars. Associated Press.

A former University of Hawaii volleyball player and former Honolulu Police Department officer was sentenced Monday to 6 months in prison for federal wire fraud. KITV.

OCCC clearing out contraband. KITV.

Sleep Number to open first Hawaii store in December. U.S. mattress and bedding brand Sleep Number will open its first Hawaii store on West Oahu. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas for some top county officials who will see double-digit raises as high as 39.7 percent. West Hawaii Today.

An underground leak slowed motorists Monday but didn’t create a significant impact on the water-sensitive region. West Hawaii Today.

Six Rescued From Sinking Vessel Off Hawaii Island. The Coast Guard, and good Samaritans rescued six fishermen from the 57-foot fishing vessel, Jane, reportedly taking on water 110 miles southeast of the Big Island of Hawaii on Monday. Big Island Now.

Prominent San Diego couple, George and Gladys Novinger, swept away in Wailuku River. The couple owns Vineyard Hacienda, a Spanish hacienda-style inn on a 9-acre property with a Bordeaux wine grape vineyard in Rancho San Diego. Tribune-Herald.

Winter arrives on Big Island summits. Snow fell Monday on the summits of Mauna Loa and Maunakea after the National Weather Service declared a winter storm warning. Tribune-Herald.

A winter wonderland! Mauna Kea sees heavy snow (and more is on the way). Hawaii News Now.

Coffee Theft on Hawaii Island. Agriculture theft has been a problem on Hawaii Island for decades. Hawaii Public Radio.

Most Hilo locations already sold out of cut Christmas trees. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

A lawsuit has been filed against the state Department of Land and Natural Resources over the current permitting system for tour boat operators off of Kaanapali Beach. Maui Now.

Fire-damaged Kahului school to reopen Thursday. Kahului Elementary School will remain closed to students until Thursday as staff work to cope with the aftermath of a suspected arson fire. Star-Advertiser.

Kahului Elementary Remains Closed Until Thursday, Nov. 30. Maui Now.

Kahului Elementary School remains closed today after a suspicious fire Friday night burned six classrooms, damaged the school’s waterlines and left parents and students frustrated and saddened. Maui News.

Kauai

A briefing to discuss findings regarding the October beaching of pilot whales on Kauai is scheduled at 10 a.m. today at the State Capitol building. Garden Island.

Samples taken from 45 mullet-like fish found in Lehua tide pools during the summer 2017 rat-eradication project are too degraded to point to what killed the animals. Garden Island.

Loop Road in Wailua has been closed past the point known as “Jurassic Gate” temporarily, after recent rains created muddy conditions and caused trees to fall over the dirt road. Garden Island.

More abandoned dogs being found at Kokee kennels. Garden Island.

Monday, November 13, 2017

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.

Wednesday, June 7, 2017

Navy corruption probe widens in Hawaii, state is first to sign onto elements in Paris Accord, Hawaii County property taxes raised, Maui first to ban 'Styrofoam' containers, Honolulu mayor wants plastic bag ban, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

U.S. Navy Cmdr. Dave Kapaun, right, with Republic of Singapore Navy Major Danny Tan, left, and Republic of Singapore Major H .C. Lim at a reception on board the U.S. Navy dock landing ship USS Rushmore, July 4, 2001, Kevin H. Tierney/U.S. Department of Defense
 Navy’s Widening Bribery And Sex Scandal Has Many Hawaii Connections. A former Seventh Fleet commander from Oahu pleads guilty in Honolulu for concealing his relationship with a Malaysian defense contractor. Civil Beat.

A retired U.S. Navy commander in Hawaii charged in a growing corruption scandal pleaded guilty today to lying about his relationship with a Malaysian defense contractor known by the nickname “Fat Leonard.” Associated Press.

Two distinctive missile telemetry ships are in Honolulu Harbor after participating in a first-of-its-kind test intercept of an intercontinental ballistic missile target high over the Pacific on May 30. Star-Advertiser.

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Gov. David Ige today signed a bill into law to document sea level rise and set strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, aligning the state’s goals with the Paris climate accord. Associated Press.

Hawaii became the first state in the nation to enact portions of the Paris climate agreement into law Tuesday with Gov. David Ige signing Senate Bill 559. Star-Advertiser.

Hawai‘i’s elected officials gathered in Honolulu on Tuesday to show their support for the Paris Climate Accord, following President Trump’s announced withdrawal from the international agreement. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii is the first state in the nation to implement parts of the Paris Climate Agreement. Hawaii Public Radio.

In a show of support for the Paris climate agreement, Gov. David Ige and Hawaii’s county mayors and representatives gathered for the signing of two bills and a mayors’ agreement that support the commitments and goals of the Paris climate accord. KHON2.

Gov. David Ige  and the county mayors gathered Tuesday for the signing of two environmental bills and a mayors' agreement that support the commitments and goals of the Paris climate accord. KITV.

Hawaii's governor said Tuesday that the state has become the first in the nation to enact legislation that implements portions of the Paris climate accord, which the Trump administration rejected last week by pulling the United States out of the multi-nation agreement. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii was the first in the nation to commit to goals outlined in the Paris agreement Tuesday. Garden Island.

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Gov. David Ige gives himself a seven out of 10 for his work since taking office in 2014. Garden Island.

Nearly two-thirds of Hawaii voters who responded to The Civil Beat Poll want the Legislature to pass a bill next year to legalize medical aid in dying for terminally ill adults. Civil Beat.

Hawaii public school students are expected to spend less time taking standardized assessments next school year under efforts announced Tuesday to move away from a testing culture some educators have called toxic. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

The city’s troubled $10 billion rail project faces another critical vote today in the Honolulu City Council. Star-Advertiser.

City council to hold final vote on several tax, fee increases. KHON2.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell today urged the Honolulu City Council to pass a bill banning all plastic bags from retail checkout counters, and threatened to veto any measure that falls short of that. Star-Advertiser.

Get ready drivers: Rates for street parking are poised to go way up starting this summer. Hawaii News Now.

City Prosecutor Keith Kaneshiro's request for $75,000 to fund a retrofitted van for his office won't be approved any time soon. Hawaii News Now.

A federal jury found the company and its top manager involved in a deadly 2011 fireworks explosion in a Waikele bunker not guilty today of permit violations for storing and treating hazardous waste. Star-Advertiser.

Medical Marijuana Dispensary To Open Without Any Marijuana. Licensed companies are still waiting for the Department of Health to certify labs to test the products before they can start selling. Civil Beat.

The Kahala Hotel’s New Shoreline Plan Could Reduce Public Beach Access. The high-end resort wants a long-term easement allowing it to hold more weddings and other events that could take up more of the public beach. Civil Beat.

Former Kapolei raceway becomes illegal, potentially toxic, dump site. Hawaii News Now.

Permit numbers for solar systems on Oahu continue to fall, dropping 62 percent in May compared with the same month last year. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority and the Hawaii Convention Center recognize University of Hawaii for securing over $170M in convention business. Pacific Business News.

Sales of single-family homes and condominiums on Oahu rose by double digits in May, as prices posted single-digit gains, according to statistics release Monday by Honolulu real estate firm Locations. Pacific Business News.

Aiming to replicate the water quality impact of oysters on places such as Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay, the state Division of Aquatic Resources on Tuesday announced the expansion of its own oyster-growing experiment with the target of helping to clean up Pearl Harbor. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Property tax rate hikes passed by the Hawaii County Council late Monday pack a wallop for residential and apartment properties, while sparing homeowners and affordable rentals from increases. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County Council members spent an entire day, working deep into the night, trying to find the right mix of Big Island property tax increases across the different classes in order to balance the budget for the 2017-18 fiscal year. Big Island Video News.

As Hawaii County considers large increases to the fuel tax, should any of that extra revenue go to help improve substandard private roads? That was a question raised Tuesday as the Hawaii County Council considered a resolution seeking to authorize grants for private roads used as main thoroughfares, such as in large subdivisions, during a Finance Committee meeting. Tribune-Herald.

The Hamakua Soil and Water Conservation District voted Tuesday to rescind the conservation plan for Big Island Dairy and others that weren’t signed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii County Wastewater Division posted warning signs near the Pua sewage pump station and the Pacific Aquaculture and Coastal Resource Center in Keaukaha after tests with dye suggested repairs made to pipe joints were ineffective. Tribune-Herald.

Alexander & Baldwin Inc. said Tuesday it has paid $10 million to acquire five multi-tenant industrial buildings within the Honokohau Industrial Park, the Honolulu-based company’s first industrial properties on the Big Island. Pacific Business News.

Police have wrapped an internal probe into an Aug. 4, 2016, police pursuit of a stolen vehicle in Hilo that concluded with a two-car crash that resulted in the deaths of a 17-year-old boy and a 20-year-old woman in the stolen car and critical injuries to a 39-year-old woman driving the other vehicle. Tribune-Herald.

Sales of homes on the Big Island rose last month, with the number of condominiums sold jumping by 40 percent, even as prices dropped by 20 percent, compared to the same month last year, according to statistics provided by Hawaii Information Service on behalf of Hawaii Island Realtors. Pacific Business News.

Maui

Maui County Mayor Alan Arakawa signed into law Monday a bill banning foam polystyrene food service containers, which include the popular plate lunch container and certain types of coffee cups. Maui News.

Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa signed Bill 127 into law on Monday relating to restricting the use and sale of polystyrene foam containers in Maui County.  The law is set to go into effect on Dec. 31, 2018. Maui Now.

Polystyrene foam containers will be banned on Maui beginning Dec. 31, 2018. Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa signed a bill on Tuesday making the sale and use of polystyrene food containers illegal. Maui is the first Hawaii county to ban foam containers. Associated Press.

County prepares as liability coverage for lifeguards ends. Maui News.

Maui Grown Therapies will hold an open house and a job fair this week to answer questions and recruit employees for the company’s production center and dispensary. Maui News.

Kauai

After five years of renovations, Diamond Resorts International is re-opening The Point at Poipu Resort on Kauai. Pacific Business News.

The median price of a single-family home on Kauai shot up by nearly 50 percent in May, compared to last year, while the number of sales rose by nearly as much, according to statistics provided by Hawaii Information Service on behalf of the Kauai Board of Realtors. Pacific Business News.

Four-hundred-year-old coral fragments in Kauai’s Makauwahi Cave appear to have been left there by a tsunami generated by a magnitude 9 earthquake in the Aleutian Islands, according to a team who recently re-examined the cave. Garden Island.