Hawaiian Airlines has best record for not kicking people off plane, Tulsi Gabbard big hit on Big Island, House passes Oahu rail tax extension, 100 rally against Maui 24/7 alcohol law, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaiian Airlines interior © 2017 All Hawaii News

In 2016, Hawaiian Airlines had an involuntary denied boarding rate of 0.05 per 10,000 passengers, the best out of the 12 reporting U.S. carriers, while United Airlines came in at No. 5 with a rate of 0.43, according to the 2016 Air Travel Consumer Report. Pacific Business News.

© 2017 All Hawaii News

Under Fire In DC, Tulsi Is Still A Hit On The Big Island. About 400 people turn out for Congresswoman Gabbard’s town hall, and seem unconcerned about her controversial stands on Syria. Civil Beat.

Rep. Tulsi Gabbard held true to her unpopular doubts and criticisms surrounding war crimes in Syria and President Donald Trump’s military response at a town hall meeting at Kealakehe Intermediate School Tuesday night. West Hawaii Today.


Hundreds packed into the Kealakehe Intermediate School to hear from Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, as the Democratic representative began her statewide Town Hall Tour during the April District Work Period. Big Island Video News.

The Hawaii Senate zipped through a pile of bills ahead of a major legislative deadline looming Thursday, addressing airport contract reforms, jurisdictional issues with disputed roads and treating mentally ill patients against their will. But the House was a different story, with members tussling Tuesday over a measure to scale back pensions for state judges. Civil Beat.


A bill that decriminalizes the possession or sale of drug paraphernalia — downgrading the offenses from a felony to a civil violation — is sailing through the Legislature, despite fierce opposition from state and county prosecutors. Civil Beat.

Commentary: Why Condo Associations Are Sweating After A Judge’s Ruling. Improper foreclosure procedures were sometimes used, a federal judge found, and the stakes could be staggeringly high. Civil Beat.


Attorneys representing Hawaii in the state's challenge to President Donald Trump's revised travel ban are asking that the full panel of a federal appeals court hear the case. The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals is scheduled to hear the case May 15. Associated Press.

Incoming Hawaii seventh-graders will need to schedule health checkups sometime before the 2017-18 school year begins in August. Tribune-Herald.

Oahu

House lawmakers easily approved a two-year extension of the excise tax surcharge on Oahu on Tuesday to help bail out the financially strapped Honolulu rail project, but some charged that Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s dire warnings about raising property taxes to fund rail amount to “threatening” or even “blackmail” of the state Legislature. Star-Advertiser.


State lawmakers advanced a measure today to provide more money for Honolulu’s Rail Transit Project. Hawaii Public Radio.


The city’s nascent Office of Climate Change, Sustainability and Resiliency is on the chopping block pending the state’s approval of additional rail funding. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu’s Office of Climate Change, Resilience and Sustainability hasn’t opened yet, but it’s already on the City Council’s chopping board. Civil Beat.


Ancient human skeletal remains, or iwi, have been discovered at The Howard Hughes Corp.’s 466-unit Aeo mixed-use condominium site in the Honolulu neighborhood of Kakaako that includes Hawaii’s flagship Whole Foods Market, an executive with the Texas-based developer confirmed to Pacific Business News.


In a deal that state officials hope will be the first of more to come, the Coca-Cola Co. has agreed to contribute financially to a public project aimed at helping to protect a remote watershed area that feeds the aquifer that serves a majority of Oahu’s drinking water. Star-Advertiser.


Mayor Kirk Caldwell has allowed a City Council bill permitting live Christmas trees in Honolulu Hale to become law without his signature, but said he will ask city departments to continue using artificial trees during Honolulu City Lights, citing safety concerns. Star-Advertiser.

A former Campbell High School softball player has filed suit against state Department of Education Superintendent Kathryn Matayoshi and six school officials and athletics personnel, alleging that she was sexually assaulted by an assistant coach. Star-Advertiser.


Hawaii Island

As Mayor Harry Kim kicked off three days of department-by-department budget reviews Tuesday, he and members of the County Council Finance Committee agreed that some tax or fee hikes are probably inevitable. West Hawaii Today.


When it comes to government revenues and appropriations on Hawaii Island, its a wait-and-see situation. Big Island Video News.


Two former inmates at Hawaii Community Correctional Center are suing the state Department of Public Safety, alleging they were incarcerated longer than a judge ordered. Tribune-Herald.


Hawaii County police have arrested a school booster club leader for allegedly staging a burglary in a plot to steal money meant for kids. Hawaii News Now.

More than 7 tons of derelict fishing nets and fishing lines collected on Hawaii Island are being sent to Oahu to be converted into energy for the City and County of Honolulu, thanks to ongoing cleanup efforts by the nonprofit Hawaii Wildlife Fund. Tribune-Herald.


Maui

A public sign waving took place this afternoon in Kahului to oppose Maui County’s new 24-hour alcohol sales law. Nearly 100 residents showed up to repeal the law, including the founder of the Mothers Against Drunk Driving Hawaiʻi and a representative of the State of Hawaiʻi Organization of Police Officers. Maui Now.

About 100 people representing law enforcement, youth and substance abuse treatment organizations demanded that the Maui County Liquor Control Commission repeal new laws allowing the retail sale of alcohol 24/7 on Tuesday afternoon outside Queen Ka’ahumanu Center. Maui News.

Makena State Beach Park could lose its Maui County lifeguards if a law protecting them and the county from personal injury lawsuits isn’t extended by the state Legislature. Maui News.


A Maui County employee was assigned to non-driving duties after he was arrested for allegedly driving under the influence of drugs Friday morning in a county Jeep. Maui News.

Maui County has inked a $1-a-year lease for 65 years with the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corp. for 20 acres adjacent to the Lahaina Civic Center, Mayor Alan Arakawa announced Tuesday. Maui News.


The sudden increase in rat lungworm disease cases on Maui is already hitting some farm sales hard, and spurring growers to look for new ways to protect their crops from contamination. Hawaii News Now.


Maui Land &Pineapple’s comeback efforts pay off. Shares of Maui Land stock have been surging over the past two months following a long slog after tumbling sharply in 2008. Star-Advertiser.


Kauai

Kauai Police Department closed access to the Port Allen Marina Tuesday afternoon following a bomb threat. Garden Island.

Kauai Humane Society has temporarily halted its spay and neuter program following the deaths of two feral cats in March. Garden Island.

Bill to criminalize trespassing on state land, Lt. Gov. Tsutsui 'pretty certain' he'll leave post, Hawaii County seeks to limit public in contested case hearings, H-POWER worker killed, state cooperates on immigration holds, rat lungworm worries Maui, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Pohulu Valley lookout

The Hawaii House of Representatives approved a bill to make it a crime to trespass on all state lands despite concerns it could harm homeless people, cultural practitioners, protesters and hikers. Associated Press.

Hawaii Cooperates With Feds On Immigration Holds, Even As Other States Balk. A recent study shows that Hawaii is one of just seven states that fully complied with federal requests to hold immigrants in custody beyond their release dates without a warrant. Civil Beat.

University of Hawaii at Manoa researchers have found that life expectancy in the Aloha State exceeds averages, and continues to increase, compared to those who live on the mainland. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

The state has agreed to pay $875,000 to settle a lawsuit filed in connection with the death of 4-year-old Zion McKeown, a known victim of child abuse who was killed after state Child Welfare Services staff returned him to his family. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu police are investigating the death of a 41-year-old man at the H-POWER plant Thursday. Hawaii News Now.

The company behind H-POWER says an employee was killed in an accident at the facility. KHON2.

Some 182 acres overlooking the rugged East Oahu coastline have been conveyed from the Trust for Public Land to the nonprofit Livable Hawai‘i Kai Hui, which will oversee stewardship of the Ka Iwi Coast land, officials said. Star-Advertiser.

After four decades, efforts have paid off for people trying to protect a beloved East Oahu shoreline. Thursday, City and State Representatives announced the purchase of Ka Iwi Coast Mauka Lands. KITV.

A man is facing deportation to China after being convicted of trafficking Chinese women to work as prostitutes in Hawaii massage parlors. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Attorney General Doug Chin is reviewing the 2015 assault of a toddler at an Ewa Beach day care after Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney Keith Kaneshiro declined to pursue the case, saying he had received no new information from the Honolulu Police Department despite the department taking a fresh look. Civil Beat.

Despite its reputation as a safe snorkeling spot, Hanauma Bay is actually one of Hawaii's deadliest beaches. Hawaii News Now.

The median price for both condominiums and homes on Oahu increased 4 percent last month, while interest rates are up almost 12 percent from last year. Pacific Business News.

The $1 billion, 217-unit Park Lane Ala Moana luxury condominium project in Honolulu opened on Wednesday to its first residents, an executive with one of the developers of one of the most luxurious condos in Hawaii confirmed to Pacific Business News.

More details have been revealed regarding the planned medical marijuana dispensary at the former Bank of Hawaii branch on Kapahulu Avenue in Honolulu with ties to well-known Hawaii businessman Colbert Matsumoto, including why the company behind it chose this location. Pacific Business News.

Wet’n’Wild Hawaii is changing owners again. EPR Properties, a Kansas City, Mo.-based specialty real estate investment trust, said Thursday it is buying the Kapolei water park from CNL Lifestyle Properties Inc. as part of a $455.5 million deal involving the Northstar California Ski Resort, 15 water and amusement parks, and five small family entertainment centers. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

New rules for the Planning Department would reduce public participation in contested case hearings, while increasing public participation in planned unit developments. West Hawaii Today.

Hilo moved one step closer to having the state’s first Neighbor Island community economic district on Thursday after a bill creating the district cleared its final committee in the state Senate. Tribune-Herald.

Big Island homes and condominiums ended the first quarter on a high note, with prices up 20 and 33 percent, respectively, according to Hawaii Island Realtors. Pacific Business News.

Maui

On Thursday, Lt. Gov. Shan Tsutsui, the 45-year-old Wailuku resident and former Senate president confirmed that he’s “pretty certain” he won’t seek re-election as lieutenant governor, and he’s thinking about running for mayor. Maui News.

The Maui County Council will be holding a public hearing on the proposed budget for the next fiscal year at 6 p.m. April 18 in Council Chambers on the eighth floor of the county building in Wailuku. Maui News.

The chairman of the Maui County Council’s budget committee said Thursday that he is not looking to close the Waiehu Municipal Golf Course, but added that privatization could be an option. Maui News.

A meeting in the remote East Maui community of Hāna to discuss the threat of rat lungworm disease, drew a standing room only crowd to Helene Hall on Thursday evening. Maui Now.

Maui health officials said six cases of rat lungworm disease have been reported over the past three months after the island had seen just two cases of the disease in the previous decade. Associated Press.

Kauai

Cooperation between residents and government, environmental impacts of planes and quality education were concerns voiced at a community meeting Thursday hosted by Gov. David Ige. Garden Island.

Hawaii Dairy Farms has agreed to write a $125,000 check for streambank restoration and endangered species protection at the Makauwahi Cave Reserve. Garden Island.

Kauai real estate sales dropped in March, while median sales prices increased, with condominium prices jumping nearly 20 percent. Pacific Business News.

Molokai

Community-based subsistence fishing area designation sought for Molokai. ‘Our resources are depleting’ Maui News.

Tiny house draws big interest in accessory dwelling units, Maui to close power plant, Mauna Kea limits stargazing, subsistence fishing on Molokai, sewer spill on Big Island, Aloun Farms to offer ag plots, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Accessory dwelling unit at Capitol grounds, courtesy Hawaii Association of Realtors

Affordable housing advocates have erected a small home on the grounds of the Hawaii state Capitol. Associated Press.

State and city officials Monday urged people to walk through a 408-square-foot accessory dwelling unit temporarily erected on the grounds of the state Capitol to see whether it could help them generate rental income while easing Oahu’s housing shortage. Star-Advertiser.

A little home that was recently constructed on the State Capitol lawn is attracting lots of attention. Hawaii News Now.

A tiny house on the lawn at the State Capitol is attracting some big attention. Lawmakers are hoping it'll stir up enough talk to get homeowners to seriously consider purchasing accessory dwelling units, or ADU's. KITV.

An accessory dwelling unit (ADU), or tiny home, has been built on the Hawaii State Capitol lawn to raise awareness about statewide housing needs. KHON2.

Affordable housing advocates fear the Legislature won’t allocate enough money this year to have a meaningful effect on Hawaii’s housing shortage. Civil Beat.

Hawaii drivers arrested on a repeat DUI offense would have to agree to stop drinking alcohol for at least 90 days and wear an ankle bracelet that would alert a private company if they have a drink if they want to be released from jail on bail, under a bill that has so far this year sailed through the Legislature. Star-Advertiser.

A key Senate committee passed a bill Monday that sets a goal of having all ground transportation in Hawaii run on renewable fuel by 2045. Star-Advertiser.

State Rep. Andria Tupola on Monday confirmed her intent to run for chair of the Republican Party in Hawaii, setting up a showdown for the seat Republicans hope will help resuscitate the party before the 2018 mid-term elections. Hawaii News Now.

U.S. government attorneys want Hawaii’s lawsuit challenging President Donald Trump’s travel ban paused while a ruling blocking key sections is appealed. Associated Press.

Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard announced the schedule for her statewide Town Hall Tour during the April District Work Period, which includes meetings on Kauai, Oahu, Maui, Molokai, Lanai, and in Hilo and Kona on Hawaii Island. Garden Island.

The University of Hawaii was awarded a $1.4 million grant to support minority students in science, technology, engineering and math programs. Pacific Business News.

Commentary: Legislators lay groundwork for local 5G phone service. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines' nonstop service between the Aloha State and New Zealand has generated more than $247 million in total visitor spending over the past four years, according to the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Aloun Farms is announcing today that it is offering to sell 427 acres carved up into 35 farmland “condominiums” in Wahiawa that buyers can use themselves, lease back to Aloun or have Aloun farm under a service contract. Star-Advertiser.

Lawsuit: Police Officers, Union Tried To Cover Up Bar Shooting. At least 10 Honolulu police officers were disciplined for their failure to properly investigate a high-profile shooting that involved a colleague. Civil Beat.

HPD Major Retires Amid Justice Department Corruption Probe. Gordon Shiraishi was a part of an elite surveillance unit at the center of the federal case involving Honolulu’s former police chief. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Police Chief Applications Are Rolling In. The number of candidates is in the “double-digits,” but details won’t be revealed until the Police Commission meets Wednesday. Civil Beat.

A jury has found a woman guilty of bribing federal agents in exchange for protecting her Hawaii massage parlor from prostitution raids and help with the U.S. citizenship test. Associated Press.

Kailua Beach sand project gets underway, triggers stream pollution fears. KITV.

The former executive director of a nonprofit organization that shelters and helps homeless people in Leeward Oahu find permanent housing is going to jail for a year for stealing more than a half-million dollars from the organization. Star-Advertiser.

At least 135 students and staff at Waipahu High will be tested after coming into contact with someone who was diagnosed with tuberculosis. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

Gov. David Ige made the 4:30 p.m. Friday deadline to submit nominations for three seats on the University of Hawaii Board of Regents to the state Senate for confirmation. But he missed one important to the Big Island.  West Hawaii Today.

A blocked sewer pipe sent an estimated 41,000 gallons of untreated sewage into the Wailuku River and Hilo Bay on Monday, causing the closure of the entire bay area to fishing, swimming and other water activities until further notice. Tribune-Herald.

Old Airport Cleanup Postponed, County Must Relocate Homeless. Big Island Video News.

Citing costs of operating the popular program each night, the Maunakea Observatories Support Services announced Monday it will limit guided stargazing to four nights a week starting April 17. The visitor center at 9,200 feet will remain open until 10 p.m. each night. Tribune-Herald.

Citing public safety and budget concerns, the free program at the Visitor Information Station will be reduced from seven nights a week, to four nights a week. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Maui Electric Company has filed an Environmental Impact Statement Preparation Notice as it plans for the retirement of its Kahului Power Plant and a modernization of its grid to accommodate more renewable energy. Maui Now.

Approximately 4,125 gallons of wastewater overflowed on Alamaha Street in Kahului on Monday. Maui Now.

The leasehold interest in the Westin Maui Resort & Spa, which sits on 12 oceanfront acres along Ka’anapali Beach, has sold for approximately $317 million. Star-Advertiser.

A Maui woman says she was in more pain than childbirth after getting sick from rat lungworm disease. KHON2.

Kauai

In the first test of its kind, the Navy’s “next generation” ship-based air and missile defense radar, known as the SPY-6, successfully tracked a short-range ballistic missile target launched from Kauai last month, Naval Sea Systems Command said. Star-Advertiser.

If the Lihue post office is moved, new owners wanting to make changes to the Rice Street building would be subject to a review process. Garden Island.

Plants, bugs and other pests will be in the spotlight at the Courtyard Marriott at Coconut Beach on April 20 and 21 at the first Hawaii Invasive Pest Symposium. Garden Island.

Molokai

A proposal to set aside an area on the north shore of Molokai for subsistence fishing will be heard during a public scoping meeting this week, the state Department of Land and Natural Resources announced. Maui News.

Lanai

A long-planned 100-acre agricultural park on the island of Lanai, which is owned by Oracle Corp. billionaire founder Larry Ellison, is finally starting to gain some traction. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii tourism agency targets NYC, state battles occupiers of iconic Coco Palms resort, Maui coffee bonds advance, Ige bolsters state building code, groups fight over seal protection, more money sought in Honolulu police cases, tax on Amazon purchases coming, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki beach scene © 2017 All Hawaii News

Tourists in Hawai’i spend $33,000 a minute. That’s up 8 percent in average visitor spending from the same time last year, according the Hawai’i Tourism Authority.  Nearly three-fourths are return visitors, so the marketing strategy for the mainland is to focus on the “Never Beens.” And that market’s New York. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii will host its largest incentive travel group from China next month, but roughly 40 percent of Nu Skin’s top distributors won’t be joining their peers because their visa applications were rejected. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. David Ige has updated the state’s building codes and standards, requiring new construction to be more energy-efficient. Star-Advertiser.

The state of Hawaii could save more than $14 billion in energy costs during the next 20 years under a new building code recently signed by Gov. David Ige. Pacific Business News.

Worried about the state’s anemic voter turnout, two Senate committees unanimously approved legislation Thursday to implement voting by mail for all Hawaii counties by 2020. Civil Beat.

Startup technology companies boosted by government funds in Hawaii boosted the amount of taxes they paid the state last year by 74 percent, according to a recent survey. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s incubator and manufacturing companies contributed $619.6 million to the state’s economy in 2016, according to the results of an annual survey conducted by the High Technology Development Corp. Pacific Business News.

Gov. David Ige nominated Tom Gorak to be confirmed as a commissioner of the state panel responsible for regulating public utilities, after having served as interim commissioner for nine months. Star-Advertiser.

It’s not exactly a Christmas holiday-level deluge, but the U.S. Postal Service is seeing a significant boost in the number of Amazon packages shipped to Hawaii in advance of the giant online retailer collecting the state’s general excise tax here starting Saturday. Star-Advertiser.

Amazon tax: Burden or boon? Hawaii consumers, retail industry divided on added charge. Tribune-Herald.

The Trump administration filed a notice Thursday to appeal U.S. District Court Judge Derrick Watson’s nationwide stay against the president’s revised executive order on immigration. Civil Beat.

President Donald Trump’s administration on Thursday appealed the latest court ruling against his revised travel ban to the same court that refused to reinstate the original version. Associated Press.

Lawmakers Urge Medical Help For Micronesian Veterans. Service members from Palau, the Marshall Islands and the Federated States are not eligible for U.S. care. Civil Beat.

Some Hawaii lawmakers are pushing to criminally charge people who leave their dog tied up too long. Garden Island.

Oahu

Proposed Increases In Honolulu Taxes And Fees Will Be ‘A Tough Sell.' City officials say the cost of government operations is growing — including salaries, pensions and other benefits. But some council members are pushing back. Civil Beat.

A private security officer who shot a pet dog in the head in front of its owner at Honolulu Airport Tuesday night is being investigated for reckless endangering in the second degree and was previously fired as a civilian police officer for the Army “for pulling a gun too much,” according to state Sen. Will Espero. Star-Advertiser.

State releases nearly 400-page airport security contract with Securitas. KHON2.

Ten women have filed a lawsuit alleging they were sexually assaulted and harassed by four guards and one Department of Public Safety worker while incarcerated at the Women’s Community Correctional Center in Kailua. Star-Advertiser.

City seeks more funding for firms to fight lawsuit filed by former Police Chief Louis Kealoha and his family. Star-Advertiser.

Another Honolulu police officer, high in the ranks, has retired while being examined for his role in a federal public corruption case. Hawaii News Now.

Beach confrontations over the critically endangered Hawaiian monk seals are spilling over into Hawaii's courtrooms. In a lawsuit filed in state Circuit Court, a woman known for helping rescue seals said she's being harassed by volunteers for a nonprofit group that works with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which monitors monk seals in Hawaiian waters. Hawaii News Now.

The long-vacant Queen Emma Building in Downtown Honolulu could be redeveloped into a 71-unit affordable rental housing project that also would include units for housing homeless families, Pacific Business News.

The city is moving forward on its $1 million makeover of historic Thomas Square, but not everyone is on board with the changes. Hawaii News Now.

Got cauliflower? Field Day highlights potential Hawaii crop. These trials are a step toward the governor's goal of doubling our food production so Hawaii don’t have to rely so much on imports. KITV.

Hawaii

Hawaii Island residents received no immediate solutions to the problem of helicopter tour noise pollution during a meeting Thursday afternoon, but were assured that their voices were heard as federal officials once again attempt to address the issue. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Island residents, especially those living in Puna subdivisions who are fed up with the constant noise from low flying tour helicopters visiting the volcano, had a chance to take their complaints directly to the feds on Thursday. Big Island Video News.

A former school campus at Mauna Lani resort could see new life as a shopping plaza, if the County Council approves rezoning the property from agriculture to mixed commercial/industrial. West Hawaii Today.

TMT International Observatory signed a hosting agreement Thursday that would allow construction of its giant telescope on the Spanish island of La Palma. The site is part of the Canary Islands and is the developer’s backup plan should it not be able to resume construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope on Mauna Kea by April 2018. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The Maui Memorial Medical Center is on track to transition to Kaiser on July 1, as part of a public/private partnership approved by the state in 2015. Maui Now.

A bill to authorize a special purpose revenue bond for as much as $13 million to help MauiGrown Coffee Inc.’s expansion to the lower slopes of Haleakala has cleared the state Senate Ways and Means Committee. Maui News.

E.K. Fernandez Shows’ cancellation of next week’s Maui County Carnival threw a cloud over the Maui Fair as well. Maui News.

Kauai


Kauai police and the prosecutor's office are debating whether to take action against some people who have been camping out at the abandoned Coco Palms Resort — some for as long as a year. Hawaii News Now.

Owners of the iconic Coco Palms resort on Kauai are working to remove residents who they say have been living on the property illegally. Associated Press.

State officials say a group occupying land on a historic hotel site is trespassing. Garden Island.

A second informational meeting has been set for the public to hear about the state’s plan to eradicate rats on Lehua Island with poison this summer. Garden Island.

Hawaii Senate panel advances budget, judge continues blocking Trump travel ban, shave ice as state snack, tour companies could get monopoly over Maunawili Falls hike, airport investigates dog shooting, Sunshine Law complaint over Maui liquor rules, protest over Pohakuloa Training Area bombing, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Ways and Means Committee on Wednesday, courtesy Hawaii Senate majority

 Senate Committee Unveils A Streamlined State Budget. The general fund spending plan approved by the Ways and Means Committee is $114 million lower than what the governor proposed. Civil Beat.

Senate Committee Adds $628M to State Biennium Budget. Hawaii Public Radio.

A federal judge in Hawaii decided Wednesday to extend his order blocking President Donald Trump’s travel ban, preventing the government from suspending new visas for people from six Muslim-majority countries and halting the U.S. refugee program. Associated Press.


A federal judge in Hawaii decided Wednesday to extend his order blocking President Donald Trump’s travel ban. U.S. District Judge Derrick Watson issued the longer-lasting hold on the ban just hours after hearing arguments. Associated Press.

The Hawaii judge who blocked President Donald Trump’s revised executive order on immigration two weeks ago extended his nationwide stay Wednesday, brushing aside the administration’s argument that the scope of his ruling was too broad. Civil Beat.

A resolution that at least one state legislator says is tantamount to rendering Hawaii a sanctuary for undocumented immigrants was adopted by the Hawaii House of Representatives Wednesday. West Hawaii Today.

President Donald Trump’s executive order pumping up coal production and undermining climate change regulations is being roundly criticized in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Women in Hawaii may soon be able to obtain birth control pills and other forms of hormonal contraceptives directly from a pharmacist, cutting out the need to make a doctor’s appointment to obtain a prescription and increasing access to birth control for women with limited access to health care providers. Star-Advertiser.


It’s a favorite among locals and tourists, now some state lawmakers want to designate shave ice as the official snack of Hawaii. KHON2.


While the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands moves forward with housing plans, the relatively new Homestead Housing Authority says it can help, too. Civil Beat.

Fueled by an 11.5 percent increase in total daily spending, total visitor spending in Hawaii rose 8 percent in February, despite a modest gain of 2 percent in total arrivals, according to preliminary statistics released by the Hawaii Tourism Authority Wednesday. Pacific Business News.


Visitors to Hawaii in February rose nearly 2 percent to 700,426 and spending increased nearly 8 percent to $1.3 billion, according to preliminary data released Wednesday by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii visitor spending outpaces inflation. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority says average daily spending by visitors jumped 11.5 percent last month compared to the year before. Associated Press.

Despite years of talks between the two ridesharing companies and the Hawaii State Department of Transportation, Uber and Lyft are still not allowed to do business at any of Hawaii’s airports. Pacific Business News.

For the past three years, Hawaii residents have paid a small surcharge on their electric bill for clean energy funding. Now lawmakers want to make modifications because they feel the GEMS program has lost its luster. KITV.

Scientists Race To Help Hawaii Corals Survive. Some corals are starting to rebound on their own and scientists have plans to help other species survive global warming. Civil Beat.


Protest against Native Hawaiian items up for auction in Paris. KITV.

Oahu


Legislators in the state Senate are proposing that the state build a new prison and a new jail at Halawa to ease overcrowding in the correctional system, earmarking $66 million in the Senate draft of the state budget to jump-start that plan. Star-Advertiser.

Reservations to hike? Proposal limits Maunawili Falls trail access. Hawaii News Now.

It’s getting harder for Hawaii employers to find good help. With the state’s jobless rate now tied for the second lowest in the nation at 2.8 percent, about 150 employers set up booths Wednesday at the Neal Blaisdell Center Exhibition Hall hoping to find a few good men and women. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Department of Transportation says it is launching an investigation after a security guard at Honolulu International Airport shot a passenger’s dog during an incident at the airport’s interisland terminal on Tuesday evening. Pacific Business News.

The shooting of a family dog by a Securitas private security officer at Honolulu International Airport is another black eye for the private security company paid $35 million a year by the state, a state lawmaker said. Hawaii News Now.

Leisha Ramos was looking forward to her return to her home island of Oahu after living on the Big Island, when a series of events led to a security guard fatally shooting her dog Kai’ele at Honolulu International Airport Tuesday night. Star-Advertiser.

Marriott has opened its newest Hawaii property under its Autograph Collection Hotel brand, the Laylow Hotel, after completing a $60 million renovation. Pacific Business News.

The shuttered 30-room Waikiki Prince budget hotel near the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa is reopening in July, its owner confirmed to Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

The developer of the Thirty Meter Telescope signed a 75-year agreement with officials in the Canary Islands Wednesday giving the international consortium the right to construct and operate the giant telescope on the island of La Palma if Mauna Kea doesn’t work out. Star-Advertiser.

Their oli were loud, but the teeth-rattling boom of sporadic mortar rounds was louder, as more than 50 protesters employed Native Hawaiian chants to express their opposition to the latest series of training exercises at the U.S. Army garrison. West Hawaii Today.

A group of Native Hawaiians, environmentalists and peace activists gathered at the gate of Pohakuloa Training Area along Saddle Road on Wednesday. Big Island Video News.

Ookala residents concerned about pollution from the large dairy farm mauka of the village have gotten the attention of the state Department of Agriculture. Tribune-Herald.

Hilo physician fights to prove he is a primary care provider. Tribune-Herald.

The Kona Community Aquatic Center is a victim of its own success. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

A Sunshine Law complaint has been filed against the Maui County Liquor Control Commission for allegedly providing insufficient notice to the public about recent rule changes that include eliminating dry hours for liquor sales at retail stores countywide. Maui News.

The Maui County Council may choose not to fund 12 percent pay raises for Mayor Alan Arakawa, his department heads and deputies. Maui News.

Council panel mulls sale of Maui Lani lots. Bulk sale of 51 lots won in legal settlement could boost affordable housing fund. Maui News.

The 2nd Annual Maui County Carnival that was scheduled for April 6-9, 2017, has been cancelled. Representatives from E.K. Fernandez Shows say that the shipping rates for neighbor island fairs and carnivals have risen over 40% in the past three years, making it almost impossible to ship the equipment necessary to produce these events. Maui Now.

Kauai

With a royal land patent in his hand, Noa Mau-Espirito said he walked into the Coco Palms last spring to make claim of the property. Almost a year later, Mau-Espirito, who says he is a descendant of King Kaumualii, and a group of about 25 of his formerly homeless family members, continue to live on 17 acres of land in Wailua on Coco Palms property. Garden Island.

A study released Tuesday by the Wood Johnson Foundation and the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute has named Kauai County as the healthiest in state. Hawaii News Now.

Do you know what moku and ahupua‘a you live in? You will soon find out, as ahupua’a signs are now being installed along Kaua‘i’s roadways. Garden Island.

Visitors to Kauai are spending more money. Lots more. Garden Island.

University of Hawaii unveils longevity drug, Trump travel ban back in Honolulu court today, Marines digging up WWII remains, protestors camp at Kauai Coco Palms site, state taxpayers get low ROI, Kakaako development controversy, Maui hospital money may return to budget, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

David Watumull, Cardax Pres and CEO; Bradley Willcox, MD; Richard Allsopp, PhD. during news conference, courtesy University of Hawaii

A gene associated with longevity shifted into high gear in mice fed a diet rich in astaxanthin, a pigment and antioxidant, holding out promise of a possible anti-aging therapy for humans, University of Hawaii medical school researchers announced Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

The University of Hawaii’s John A. Burns School of Medicine and Honolulu-based life sciences company Cardax Inc. have announced the results of an animal study evaluating the effectiveness of the naturally-occurring chemical astaxanthin that holds promise in anti-aging therapy. Pacific Business News.

University of Hawaii

Researchers at the University of Hawaii John A Burns School of Medicine believe they've cracked the code as to why some live longer than others. KITV.

University of Hawaii researchers are touting a potential breakthrough in the study of aging. UH researchers and a local business teamed up to find out if a natural compound could affect the so-called "longevity gene" in mice. Hawaii News Now.

University of Hawaii reports Astaxanthin can activate the FOX03 “Longevity Gene” in mammals. News Release .

=====


President Donald Trump’s reversal of President Barack Obama’s Clean Power Plan does not bode well for Hawaii’s burgeoning renewable energy industry. Pacific Business News.

A federal judge in Hawaii who temporarily blocked President Donald Trump’s revised travel ban planned to hear arguments Wednesday on whether to extend his order until the state’s lawsuit works its way through the courts. Associated Press.

Hawaii will be back in federal court Wednesday to argue against President Donald Trump's revised travel ban. Hawaii News Now.

A House bill that would eliminate the use of fossil fuel vehicles on Hawaii’s roadways by 2045 hit a speed bump in the Senate on Tuesday. The Senate Committee on Ways and Means deferred HB 1580, which would establish the 2045 target. Star-Advertiser.

Military and Veterans Affairs officials are digging up the remains of 94 unidentified Marines and sailors killed on a remote atoll in the Pacific during one of World War II’s bloodiest battles. Star-Advertiser.

State struggles to provide services to students with autism. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii is one of the worst states in the country for taxpayer return on investment, according to a new report by WalletHub. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

More than 100 concerned citizens have asked Gov. David Ige to reject a list of nominees sent to him by the City Council for filling two board seats on a state agency regulating development in Kakaako, following an unusual selection process last week. Star-Advertiser.

Several dozen people attended a public hearing held Tuesday on proposed changes to rules for producing affordable housing in Kakaako, but the state board contemplating the overhaul wasn’t there to listen. Star-Advertiser.

The state agency in charge of managing development in Kakaako held a public hearing Tuesday to take testimony on highly criticized proposed rule changes that seek to make housing in the urban district more affordable. There was just one problem: Not a single board member showed up. Civil Beat.

The state is proposing to change affordable and work force housing rules for Kaka’ako. Hawaii Public Radio.

Honolulu police, SWAT, fire fighters and paramedics responded to a barricade situation just before sunset Tuesday, to house on Paakai Street in Honakai Hale on Oahu's leeward coast. KITV.

A security guard at Honolulu International Airport fatally shot a family's dog on Tuesday evening, after the pet apparently got loose in an open area. Hawaii News Now.

Nesting native bird delays multimillion-dollar project in downtown Honolulu. KHON2.

Large-scale Hawaii sugar cane farming ceased in December after 181 years with the closure of a Maui plantation that once was among more than 150 in the islands. But deep in a Windward Oahu valley, a vestige of the industry remains deeply rooted. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii State Federal Credit Union, one of the largest credit unions in the state, is selling the former Acme Fender & Paint Shop property it purchased in 2014 in the Honolulu neighborhood of Kakaako that was supposed to be its flagship branch, Pacific Business News has learned.

Demand for the Waikiki Community Center’s preschool has grown so much that the nonprofit is closing its longtime thrift store next month to allow its keiki program to expand. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii


The Coast Guard is requiring boaters to keep their distance from the Kamokuna Kilauea lava ocean entry where lava flows into the sea. Tribune-Herald.

A significant segment of Kona coffee farmers and the largely immigrant population they employ are unnerved by recent reports of increased U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement activity on Hawaii Island. West Hawaii Today.

A national comparison of counties released early this morning reveals troubling news about Hawaii County’s teenagers and young adults. Seventeen percent of 16- to 24-year-olds in the county are not in school or employed, according to the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, which funded the report. Tribune-Herald.

The county Water Board gave preliminary approval Tuesday to a $54.2 million operating budget and $26.3 million capital improvement budget after a public hearing where no members of the public testified. West Hawaii Today.

Contracts for three different water well repair projects in North Kona were approved by the Hawaii County Board of Water Supply on Tuesday. Big Island Video News.

The 82-year-old owner of Ahualoa goat farm puts it up for sale. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

State lawmakers said Tuesday that funds for the future operation of three Maui County hospitals under Kaiser Permanente likely will be returned to the budget, after the House Finance Committee removed it earlier this month, concerning hospital officials. Maui News.

The most recent little fire ant infestation in Kapalua in November appears to be under control as the ant population has not spread to nearby areas, an official with the Maui Invasive Species Committee said Wednesday. Maui News.

A groundbreaking scientific data collection program to expand the measuring of water quality off 18 West Maui shoreline sites has been forged between the state Department of Health and Maui community groups involved in the protection of the island’s nearshore waters. Maui News.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources has issued a notice of animal control activities and temporary closures of Maui forest reserves and natural area reserves on six dates. Maui News.

Commentary: Plan to close golf course spells doom for Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

A group has taken up residence on the Coco Palms property, saying they are descendants of people who once called the area home. The  unexpected protesters are not expected to delay the project. The $175 million hotel is expected to open by the end of 2018. Garden Island.

The state is looking into another dumping ground for Kauai’s waste this week after numerous reports and complaints. The spotlight is on an unencumbered state parcel at Wainiha on Route 560 between mile marker 7 and Alamihi Road, and some are dubbing the area “The Wainiha Landfill.” Garden Island.

Kauai residents say the General Plan needs to address affordable housing and future growth. Garden Island.

Allan Smith, James Mayfield and Dee Crowell were installed Tuesday as directors for Kauai Island Utility Cooperative. Each will serve a three-year term and join six other board members governing Kauai’s energy cooperative. Garden Island.

Gov. Ige slashes budget, Oahu loses population in census estimate, protection for Hawaii travel ban judge, House loses rare Republican after Trump criticism, rail tax survives, Honolulu tax hikes ahead, fighter jets coming, electricity increases, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Ige with schoolchildren, courtesy photo

Budget cuts hit construction, schools. Gov. David Ige has proposed a package of spending cuts for the next two years that includes slashing the state construction budget financed with general obligation bonds to $1 billion from $1.5 billion during the next two years. Star-Advertiser.

Census: Oahu loses population for first time in a decade, while Hawaii Island hits national growth benchmark. Hawaii Island led the state in several measures of population increases, according to estimates released late Wednesday by the U.S. Census Bureau. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii judge who blocked travel ban gets protection detail. The U.S. Marshals Service has flown in about a dozen deputies from the mainland to provide 24-hour protection for U.S. District Judge Derrick Watson. Hawaii News Now.

=====

Fukumoto says aloha to GOP. Rep. Beth Fukumoto announced today that she is leaving the Republican Party, citing, in part, its failure to condemn elements of racism and sexism within its base. She will seek membership in the Democratic Party. Star-Advertiser.

Ending months of speculation, state Rep. Beth Fukumoto made it official Wednesday: She resigned from the Hawaii Republican Party and announced that she will seek membership in the Democratic Party of Hawaii. Civil Beat.

A Hawaii lawmaker who says she was pressured to give up her leadership post at the statehouse after criticizing President Donald Trump resigned Wednesday from the Republican Party. Associated Press.

Rep. Beth Fukumoto announced on Wednesday that she will be leaving the Republican Party and seeking membership with the Democratic Party.  At a press conference, she cited racism and sexism as the core reasons why she's leaving the GOP. KITV.

=====

Lawmakers consider charging prepaid wireless users a 911 fee. A bill in the state Legislature would charge a fee of 1.2 percent on pre-paid wireless plans or cards, with the revenue going into the Enhanced 911 Fund.  Hawaii News Now.

Electricity bills increase across isles. The cost of electricity in the state is double the national average, as Hawaii residents paid an average of 27.68 cents a kilowatt-hour for electricity in December. The national average was 12.21 cents in the same month, according to the latest figures from the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Energy, the ratepayer-funded energy conservation and efficiency program for Honolulu, Hawaii and Maui counties, accounted for more than $325 million in lifetime savings for its customers in its last program year, its top executive said Wednesday at an industry event on Maui. Pacific Business News.

Why Hawaii Must Become More Energy Resilient. Speakers at the Maui Energy Conference posed questions about what type of life the state wants to create for its citizens as it adapts. Civil Beat.

Iwase glad he rejected NextEra. Eight months after the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission rejected Florida-based NextEra Energy Inc.’s $4.3 billion bid to buy the state’s dominate electric utility, Commission Chairman Randy Iwase said he feels good about the decision. Star-Advertiser.

Randy Iwase, head of the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission, said he is very comfortable with the state agency’s decision to reject Florida-based NextEra Energy Inc.’s $4.3 billion deal to buy Hawaiian Electric Co. Pacific Business News.

Fighter jets flocking to Hawaii for combat exercise. An increase in fighter aircraft activity will be seen beginning next week as part of a new round of the recurring Sentry Aloha exercise, the Hawaii National Guard said. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Mayor’s budget plan, tax and fee hikes get initial OK by Council. Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s $2.45 billion operating budget proposal and an accompanying slate of measures raising various taxes and fees won initial approval from the Honolulu City Council on Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu City Council gives preliminary approval for increased bus and garbage fee.  The council voted in favor of increasing bus prices beginning January of next year.  Single fares would jump 25 cents to $2.75. KITV.

Council OK’s Bill Eliminating Cap On Rail Money. The Honolulu City Council approved a measure Wednesday to eliminate the $4.8 billion cap on how much general excise tax money can be used to build the city’s 20-mile rail project. Civil Beat.

Legislators differ on rail-tax extension. A rail-tax extension is back in play at the state Capitol — but the proposal will likely face more tough scrutiny and hurdles in the weeks ahead. Star-Advertiser.

House Restores Honolulu Rail Tax — For Now. For the mayor of Honolulu, a state legislative hearing this week on a bill to pay for rail was a bit of déjà vu.. Civil Beat.

House Transportation Committee Extends GET Surcharge for Rail Transit for an Unspecified Period. State funding for the Honolulu Rail Transit project cleared a critical hurdle in the House today. Hawaii Public Radio.

Honolulu Area for Rapid Transportation posts job ad for new CEO. The Honolulu Area for Rapid Transportation posted a job ad for a new chief executive officer last month. Pacific Business News.

City salaries reveal some employees make more than department heads. KHON2.

State clears homeless encampments from Diamond Head. Following six months of warnings, state law enforcement officers early Wednesday morning swept through 40 or so homeless encampments on the slopes of Diamond Head, where seven people had remained atop the Hawaii landmark. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii law enforcement agents have cleared dozens of homeless camps in Oahu's Diamond Head State Monument and issued citations to seven people who refused to leave despite weeks of warnings. Associated Press.

A private contractor hired by the state on Wednesday hauled away tons of trash from illegal homeless camps on Hawaii’s iconic Diamond Head crater.  Civil Beat.

A 78-year-old business could shut down due to problems after a homeless encampment moved into the neighborhood. KITV.

Sewage spill in Halawa prompts $465,000 fine. The state Department of Agriculture has been ordered to pay a $465,000 fine for discharging sewage into Halawa Stream on Oahu for two months last summer. Star-Advertiser.

State to dispute fine for massive Halawa sewage spill that lasted 2 months. Hawaii News Now.

Did Honolulu Cops Issue Fake Tickets Or Did The Honolulu Prosecutor Make Up The Story? Several defense lawyers who specialize in drunken driving cases are hoping to use Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney Keith Kaneshiro’s own words against him in an attempt to beat various DUI charges that have been filed against their clients in Oahu District Court. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

Telescope foes criticize slew of objections. Thirty Meter Telescope foes are crying foul after lawyers with the University of Hawaii at Hilo and the TMT International Observatory board filed numerous objections to exhibits entered in the contested case proceedings. Star-Advertiser.

Start of $75M Kona airport expansion celebrated. State and airport officials are moving forward with the facility’s first expansion to accommodate the 3 million people now filtering through the airport annually. West Hawaii Today.

County to negotiate for purchase of Hakalau valley land. The Hawaii County Council authorized negotiations for the purchase of an 83-acre parcel in Hakalau valley in a 9-0 vote Wednesday. Tribune-Herald.

Scientists Say There’s Hope For Dying Ohia Trees. Researchers are closer to understanding a fungus that has infected 50,000 acres of Big Island ohia forest in little more than a handful of years. Civil Beat.

Second ride-hailing company begins operations on Big Island; Lyft goes live today. Less than a week after ride-hailing first arrived on the shores of the Big Island, a new transportation startup is set to begin operations. Tribune-Herald.

Senior Produce Program to cease operations after 10 years. The Food Basket, Hawaii Island’s food bank, announced its decade-old Senior Produce Program has ended. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Haiku group sues county over housing project. Developer included in lawsuit that alleges an attempt to bypass public review, ag laws. A group of more than 200 Haiku residents has filed a lawsuit against the County of Maui and a proposed workforce housing development in Pauwela and is claiming that the project has circumvented public review and violated state and county agriculture laws, their attorney said last week. Maui News.

Panelist: ‘Food, water and energy must all intersect in agriculture’. Lack of coordination, inconsistent laws keep them out of sync, says sustainability expert Jonathan Koehn. Maui News.

Public input sought on MPD accreditation. Telephone and written comments will be accepted on the Maui Police Department’s ability to meet accreditation standards, and an assessment team from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies will be on Maui from March 27 to 30 to examine the department’s policies and procedures, management, operations and support system. Maui News.

Final birds from captive-breeding program released. Event marks the successful end to the recovery of the puaiohi birds into their native habitat. The final trio of endangered puaiohi birds bred in captivity — including on Maui — has been released to the wild on Kauai, the state Department of Land and Natural Resources said Tuesday. Maui News.

The Road To Hana Is Sometimes Paved With Bad Intentions. Some vehicles left behind by motorists with car trouble are vandalized. To make matters worse, emergency call boxes frequently don’t work. Civil Beat.

Kauai

Council begins budget process. The Kauai County Council began work Wednesday on Mayor Bernard Carvalho, Jr.’s proposed $204 million operating budget for fiscal year 2017-2018. Garden Island.

Post office resolution rejected. Kauai County Councilmembers may not want to see the Lihue post office change sites, but some say it’s out of their control. Garden Island.

Mohihi Camp road, bridge completed. A $2.4 million project to replace three bridges along the Mohihi Camp 10 access road in Kokee State Park was finished two months ahead of schedule. Garden Island.

Coral New growth at Waipa. Coral cover could be increasing around Kauai’s North Shore. Garden Island.

KCC could be smoke-free. Kauai Community College may join the University of Hawaii at Manoa as a smoke-free campus. Garden Island.