Parole administrator reassigned pending investigation, Kauai study shows glyphosate in honey, Maui school bus shortage reaches crisis, Big Island council members fly high on pCards, Ellison describes Lanai ag plans, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Wiki bikestand in Waikiki, courtesy U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz

You’ve seen the new Biki bikeshare stations around town but who are the people pedaling them? Hawaii Public Radio.

The state Department of Public Safety has temporarily reassigned longtime Paroles and Pardons Administrator Tommy Johnson pending the outcome of an internal investigation, according to Public Safety Director Nolan Espinda. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Department of Public Safety has temporarily reassigned longtime Paroles and Pardons Administrator Tommy Johnson pending the outcome of an internal investigation. Associated Press.

Robert K. Masuda has been appointed as First Deputy Director of the Department of Land and Natural Resources by Gov. David Y. Ige on Friday. Pacific Business News.

Gov. David Ige has joined 38 other governors in signing a cybersecurity compact in an effort to enhance state cybersecurity and develop the cyber workforce. Star-Advertiser.

As summer winds down, thousands of Hawaii students return to school. Hawaii News Now.

Nearly 40 Hawaii public school graduates have received the state’s first round of awards signifying they have mastered two languages. Star-Advertiser.

John H. Radcliffe, a retired Hawaii lobbyist who became, as he puts it, the “poster child” for legalizing medical aid in dying in Hawaii, got some astounding news last month. His inoperable cancer was deemed operable. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Former city Community Services Director Pam Witty-Oakland returns to the post effective Oct. 1, Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s office announced Friday. Star-Advertiser.

Junk Cars Are Piling Up On Oahu. As scrap yards close or start charging to take derelict vehicles, it’s often cheaper to ditch a worn-out car than legally dispose of it. Civil Beat.

Couple OK’d as foster parents despite marred past. Star-Advertiser.

A judge ruled Friday that statements an Army medic made to an investigator after his wife was found dead were coerced. Star-Advertiser.

Cleanup of Ala Wai has start in Manoa. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu condo prices climb: Previously owned Oahu condos sold for a median $425,000, increasing 6.3 percent from $400,000 in July 2016, according to resale figures released Sunday by the Honolulu Board of Realtors. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Some County Council members are flying high on the taxpayers’ dime. The council spent $58,453 on travel during the first seven months of the two-year term, almost twice the monthly average of prior years, according to a West Hawaii Today analysis of purchasing card and travel records. West Hawaii Today.

Mayor Harry Kim claims to be a “pretty dull guy,” and his purchasing card and travel expenses seem to reflect he’s no social butterfly. West Hawaii Today.

The Big Island Invasive Species Committee has declared victory in its effort to remove axis deer from Ka‘u, nearly eight years since they were introduced. Tribune-Herald.

It's official. Axis Deer are no more on Hawaii Island. Big Island Video News.

Lance Niimi, the Hawaii County's assistant housing administrator, has been sleeping among the homeless at the Hale Kikaha tent-city. Big Island Video News.

The Hilo Drag Strip is set to reopen by the end of 2017 after being closed nearly two years for renovations. Tribune-Herald.

It didn’t take long for a mishap to befall the beleaguered Mass Transit department’s new buses, which were just donated to the Big Island from the City and County of Honolulu. Big Island Video News.

A Hawaiian Paradise Park woman and her two young children were uninjured after being involved in a minor collision with a reportedly stolen Hele-On bus in Hilo Saturday afternoon. West Hawaii Today.

State emergency officials want public schools to be prepared for a possible North Korea missile attack, though Hawaii’s education leaders aren’t planning any drills specific to nuclear detonations just yet. Tribune-Herald.

The state land department is accepting proposals to move forward with a carbon credit system that will fund forest restoration on the Big Island. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa, the Department of Education, and one of Hawaii’s largest school bus providers met Friday to try to fix the Valley Isle school bus crisis, but to no avail. KHON2.

Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa said the county's bus service can't accommodate the 250 students whose school bus service has been cut because of a driver shortage. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii State Department of Education advises parents and guardians of students at Lahainaluna High and Baldwin High who depend on school bus routes exclusively serving grades 9 to 12 to find alternate rides. Maui Now.

Power grid showing its age as more renewable energy produced. Maui News.

Community input is being sought on a proposed light industrial and commercial business park at Pulehunui in Central Maui, the state Department of Land and Natural Resources announced. Maui News.

The Iao Valley State Monument has reopened, at least temporarily, after sustaining severe damage from a massive flood in September. Associated Press.

Kauai

Another study looking at pesticides in beehives is underway in Hawaii. And results are showing a connection between agriculture-dense areas and an increase in the chemical glyphosate — the active ingredient in Roundup — in honey. Garden Island.

Taxes and establishing bus stops will be discussed at the Kauai County Council meeting Wednesday. Councilmembers are expected to approve two bills relating to taxes. Garden Island.

The project to eradicate the rats on Lehua Island won’t be starting on Tuesday, according to Scott Enright, director of the state’s Department of Agriculture. Garden Island.

Forum ends with consensus: Seek ways to preserve marine species. Garden Island.

Lanai

Tech billionaire Larry Ellison sees potential for agriculture on Lanai. Star-Advertiser.

Polystyrene foam ban resurfaces in Honolulu, Maui police deny excessive force in telescope protester arrests, Big Island mayor cancels geothermal health studies, Kona homeless get new tent city, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Polystyrene lunch plate © 2017 All Hawaii News

An effort to bar Oahu businesses from using foam takeout containers has been renewed, this time by a Honolulu City Council member who said she opposed a similar proposal in 2004. Star-Advertiser.

‘Biocontrol Agents’ Could Be Used To Kill Albizia In Hawaii. Moths, mites, weevils, beetles, even a fungus, are under consideration as a way to stop the spread of the invasive tree in the islands. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s college graduates are managing student debt better than their peers anywhere else in the country, according to a new WalletHub report released this week. Tribune-Herald.

More than eight months after issuing a request for landowners in Hawaii willing to host renewable energy projects, Hawaiian Electric Co. said this week that it has compiled a list of potential sites, but it’s not saying where they are. Pacific Business News.

Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc.’s earnings fell 12 percent in the second quarter, as its utilities saw a decrease in profits. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc. reported second-quarter net income of $38.7 million, or 36 cents per diluted share, compared to net income of $44.1 million, or 41 cents per diluted share, for the same quarter a year ago. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

The number of mumps cases at Oahu Community Correctional Center has more than doubled in less than a month, accounting for nearly 10 percent of the state’s outbreak, which now tops 200 cases. Star-Advertiser.

Fast-acting work crews prevented a mainland bat from escaping a container ship docked at Honolulu Harbor on Monday, according to state officials. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council has sided with an advisory board and an overwhelming community view to reject a developer’s proposal to rezone farmland on the fringe of Haleiwa town for residential use. Star-Advertiser.

A midrise rental apartment building reserved for residents with incomes up to the median in Honolulu will begin accepting tenant applications Aug. 18 in preparation for an opening by the end of this month. Star-Advertiser.

Howard Hughes Corporation Kakaako Development Update. Ward Warehouse in Kakaako closed earlier this week and is scheduled to be torn down by the end of the year. Hawaii Public Radio.

City transportation officials told a Honolulu City Council committee Thursday they are looking at redesigning and reducing the size of 11 traffic bulb-outs in Chinatown that merchants, customers and residents have complained about. Star-Advertiser.

A pedestrian safety measure in Chinatown is irking area businesses, who say it's hurting their bottom line. Hawaii News Now.

A nonprofit wants turn a former fishing shed at Kewalo Basin into a cultural and educational center. Hawaii News Now.

The median price for condominiums on Oahu hit an all-time high of $425,000 in July, rising 6 percent from the same month a year ago, according to a report by Honolulu-based real estate firm Locations. Pacific Business News.

Dozens of community members gathered Thursday inside Kapolei High School's cafeteria to have their questions and concerns heard, as Congresswoman Colleen Hanabusa discussed the latest news out of the nation's capital. KITV.

The University of Hawaii Manoa student newspaper is hoping for a student fee increase to help it survive in the digital age. Civil Beat.

Former Honolulu police officer Jessie Laconsay,  who is already serving a 10 year sentence for sexually assaulting a teen, faces even more punishment. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

A bill that would allow Hawaii County to spend its geothermal royalties on “community health and safety projects” will be sent to the Planning Commission for review. Tribune-Herald.

Mayor Harry Kim has canceled two geothermal studies previously approved by the Windward Planning Commission. The studies would have looked at health impacts of geothermal development in Puna and dispersion of hydrogen sulfide during steam releases. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County Department of Parks and Recreation maintenance crews had their hands — and their trucks — full Wednesday, as they cleared out rubbish from the Old Airport Park in preparation for a cleanup effort set for Aug. 9-10. West Hawaii Today.

Some of those who were previously camping at Old Kona Airport have been relocated under tents next to Hale Kikaha. Big Island Video News.

There's nothing fancy about the Big Island's new homeless safe zone. It's just a row of pop-up tents, a few portable toilets and some showers. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

Roads leading to the summit of Haleakala are once again open to the public today. Park officials say the construction convoy delivering equipment for the new Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope was successful. This follows the latest round of protests against the solar telescope under construction. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui police said a preliminary review of reports and video from the arrest of a protester on Haleakala Wednesday shows that officers acted within department policy in forcibly restraining him before he fell unconscious in handcuffs. Star-Advertiser.

Police force on Maui has been questioned following an injury reported during an arrest of one of the demonstrators during the Kāko’o Haleakala protest early Wednesday morning. Maui Now.

Some are claiming that Maui officers used excessive force during a protest of the controversial Haleakala telescope project, and are pointing to cell phone video circulating online as evidence of their charges. Hawaii News Now.

The Maui County Council’s Land Use Committee unanimously voted against approval for a conditional permit to allow special events at the “Lona Ridge” property in Wailuku. Maui Now.

A shortage of bus drivers on Maui has forced state officials to suspend bus rides for students at three schools and limit rides for students at one school. Associated Press.

Frustration is mounting on Maui as parents learn new bus pickup times for their kids still aren’t set or are set too late. KHON2.

Kauai

Days from the first potential drop of 10 tons of rodenticide on Lehua Island, some are still demanding the state respond to unanswered questions. Garden Island.

The Navy announced today that it successfully tracked a medium-range ballistic missile target in flight off Kauai with the new AN/SPY-6(V) Air and Missile Defense Radar on July 27. Star-Advertiser.

When some Kauai County Councilmembers voted against funding to develop a Climate Action Plan, it was because they did not know what it hoped to accomplish. Garden Island.

Group sinks teeth into General Plan Update. Garden Island.

A Lihue man awaiting trial on charges of producing child pornography told Kauai police that he had sexually assaulted seven boys and girls over a span of eight or nine years, according to a recently unsealed U.S. District Court document. Star-Advertiser.

State finds $1M to battle rat lungworm, 6 arrested, one sent to ER in Maui telescope protest, Kauai rejects climate change money, Tokuda running for Lt. Gov., Hokulea plans 40-stop state tour, Honolulu gets state's first public hydrogen fueling station, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

The Mystery of Rat Lungworm Disease is an activity book designed by UH Hilo researchers to help local elementary-age children learn what to look for in their gardens and vegetables.

State officials are making a new push to combat rat lungworm disease, promising more public awareness efforts that urge vigilance in the cleaning of produce and planning to hire two workers dedicated to prevention. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. David Ige announced Wednesday that his administration is embarking on a two-year campaign aimed at curbing the spread of rat lungworm disease and soothing the public’s jitters over eating local produce. Civil Beat.

Hawaii health officials will use $1 million from the state Legislature to study rat lungworm prevalence in rats and fund a public information campaign targeting residents and tourists. Tribune-Herald.

The state has revealed its new strategy to battle a brain-infecting parasite. The Hawaii Department of Health didn't ask for funding to deal with rat lungworm disease during the last legislative session, but ended up receiving a total of $1 million for the next two years. Hawaii News Now.

The state is stepping up efforts to combat rat lungworm disease in Hawaii. KHON2.

Gov. David Ige, with the Hawai‘i Department of Health and the Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture announced today the state’s plans to place a stronger emphasis on the prevention of rat lungworm disease. Maui Now.

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State Sen. Jill Tokuda announced Wednesday she is running in what will likely be a crowded field of contenders next year seeking to be Hawaii’s next lieutenant governor. Star-Advertiser.

A state senator is making a move for the lieutenant governor seat. KHON2.

Sen. Jill Tokuda (D- Kaneohe) entered the race for Lieutenant Governor. She made the announcement at a campaign event at Honolulu YWCA Wednesday evening. KITV.

Sen. Jill Tokuda announce her candidacy for lieutenant governor during a campaign kickoff Wednesday at the Honolulu YWCA. Garden Island.

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Hawaii Gas requested rate adjustments Tuesday from the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission. Any changes are not expected to go into effect until mid-2018. Garden Island.

Hokulea, Hikianalia begin 40-stop cruise through the state. Maui News.

Oahu

The Honolulu City Council zoning committee deferred two bills Tuesday night that would have rezoned seven acres of agricultural land in Haleiwa to either residential or urban. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu Police Commission’s search for a new chief is expected to last through at least October, three months behind schedule. Star-Advertiser.

Servco Pacific Inc. officials and Gov. David Ige broke ground Wednesday for the first publicly accessible hydrogen fueling station on Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii is building its first public fueling station for hydrogen vehicles, which will enable the state to begin selling cars that only emit water vapor. Associated Press.

Hawaii Gas is seeking to increase a typical Oahu customer’s bills by nearly 20 percent. Star-Advertiser.

Holu Energy LLC, the Hawaii subsidiary of EnSync Energy Inc., has inked a 20-year power purchase agreement with Hawaii Pacific University to build a 310-kilowatt solar photovoltaic system on the roof of the Aloha Tower Marketplace in Downtown Honolulu. Pacific Business News.

Oregon-based energy storage company Powin Energy Corp. will install software and infrastructure to seven Hawaii sites, including the Boy Scouts of America's Honolulu headquarters and the Aqua Kauai Beach Resort, to maximize their bottom lines through storing solar energy not used during daylight hours. Pacific Business News.

More than a hundred people have signed a petition against a Biki Bike station planned for Kolowalu Park. KITV.

Special-duty officers look to thwart potential trespassers on Haiku Stairs. KHON2.

A mid-rise hotel slated to open on the outskirts of downtown Kapolei in late October can expect some close competition in a couple of years. Star-Advertiser.

Prior crew found plane unsafe before it crashed. Star-Advertiser.

HART to pay for repaving of OCCC's parking lot, raising questions from critics. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Mayor Harry Kim declared a state of emergency Tuesday to pave the way for the relocation of several homeless individuals residing at the Old Airport Park who had been told they must vacate the premises by that date. West Hawaii Today.

The day before the county will enforce a no-camping policy at the Old Airport Park in Kona, Mayor Kim issues an Emergency Proclamation regarding the Hale Kikaha Project. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii County Council members thought something just didn’t smell right when reviewing the latest list of change orders for county projects. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

After a handful of activists were arrested Tuesday in protests against a controversial telescope planned for Haleakala, some are claiming Maui police officers used excessive force despite a peaceful demonstration. Hawaii News Now.

Showdown in Pukalani. Protesters attempt to stop telescope convoy; 6 people arrested. Maui News.

Law enforcement officers arrested a total of six individuals early this morning at the site of a demonstration held to protest ongoing construction of a telescope atop Haleakalā. One individual was also injured and was taken off site by paramedics during the incident for treatment at the hospital emergency room. Maui Now.

Maui police arrested six people Wednesday after they allegedly tried to block trucks hauling equipment for the Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope project at Haleakala. Star-Advertiser.

Six arrests were made when protesters tried to block an equipment convoy for a solar telescope being built on a Hawaii mountain held sacred by some Native Hawaiians. Associated Press.

Maui Police arrested six protestors involved in demonstrations against a contested solar telescope project on Haleakala summit. KITV.

Police arrested two women and four men early Wednesday morning as they tried to block the passage of a large vehicle convoy carrying equipment to the summit of Haleakala for construction of the Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope, according to an announcement from the state Department of Land and Natural Resources. Maui Now.

=====

Plans for further development on South Maui have been rejected at least for the moment. The latest proposal would have included housing, office and retail space on 75 acres in North Kīhei. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Department of Education is facing criticism for its handling of a bus driver shortage that will affect students on Maui. KHON2.

Kauai

Kauai County Council members have rejected $100,000 in private donations to fund a climate action plan for their rural island, which is particularly susceptible to rising sea levels, stronger storms and other effects of climate change. Civil Beat.

After reflecting on a decision to freeze vacant county positions for six months, Ken Shimonishi, director of finance, said it was not practical. Garden Island.

Molokai


A meeting is being held today on Molokai to discuss plans for a former bombing range. Hawaii Public Radio.

Telescope battles on two islands, school bus driver shortage forces route cancellations, former Honolulu reporter snarled in Fox News Trump allies lawsuit, 'Fat Leonard' bribery case involves Hawaii's Seventh Fleet, gun range plan advances, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Haleakala protest screenshot from FB live, Barbara Heil Barry

How the world’s largest solar telescope rose on Maui while nearby protests derailed a larger scope. Science.

Several arrests were made early this morning as members of the group Kāko’o Haleakalā demonstrated overnight, attempting to block a convoy transporting large loads to the Daniel K Inouye Solar Telescope atop Haleakalā on Maui. Maui Now.

Several arrests were made early Wednesday as police cracked down on dozens of activists blocking the road leading to the summit of Haleakala in protest of construction of a four meter telescope. Hawaii News Now.

Dozens of protesters of all ages waved signs along Kula Highway Tuesday evening to voice their opposition toward building the Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope. KITV.

The narrow winding road leading up to Haleakala National Park was scheduled to be closed to traffic for several hours late Tuesday during a planned delivery of materials to the Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope site — where protesters opposed to the project were expected. Star-Advertiser.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources Chair today announced that it will implement a temporary closure of unencumbered lands on Haleakalā to protect public safety during the equipment convoy that starts today. Maui Now.

With materials for the controversial solar telescope on Haleakala still hours away, more than 80 protesters prepared to confront the delivery trucks on a grassy triangle outside King Kekaulike High School on Tuesday evening. Maui News.

=====

Office of Hawaiian Affairs trustees say they will sue the University of Hawaii and the state for alleged mismanagement at Mauna Kea. Hawaii News Now.

A Native Hawaiian fisherman is asking an environmental court to stop Hawaii officials from issuing commercial fishing licenses to those who aren’t legally admitted into the United States. Associated Press.

The Hawaii Medical Service Association is seeking to boost health insurance rates next year by an average 27.1 percent, while Kaiser Permanente is proposing a 19.9 percent rate hike, together affecting nearly 33,000 residents covered by the federal Affordable Care Act. Star-Advertiser.

Former Hawaii journalist Malia Zimmerman is at the center of a growing firestorm over a Fox News story about Democratic leaks and an unsolved killing. Hawaii News Now.

A lawsuit filed Tuesday lays out an explosive tale of Trump allies, the White House, Fox News and a former Hawaii journalist conspiring to push a false story about Democratic leaks and an unsolved killing to distract attention from the Russia investigation that has been swirling around the president. Associated Press.

New Hawaii Schools Chief’s First Priority: Listening. Christina Kishimoto plans on visiting all the islands in her first six months to talk with educators and students. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Department of Education welcomed its new leader Tuesday, less than one week before the start of the new school year on Aug. 7. KHON2.

Christina Kishimoto began her new job Tuesday as superintendent of Hawaii public schools, promising state education leaders she will visit schools throughout the state in the coming months and work to fill vacant positions in her executive staff. Tribune-Herald.

The state said Tuesday it has installed air conditioning units in 796 classrooms in the islands, and hopes to reach 1,000 by the end of the month. Hawaii News Now.

Former Navy Officer Isn’t Rolling Over In The Fat Leonard Bribery Case. The widening criminal investigation into Malaysian defense contractor Leonard “Fat Leonard” Francis has already ensnared dozens of top naval officers, many from the Hawaii-based Seventh Fleet. Civil Beat.

Members of the United Public Workers union are voting this week on a tentative agreement for a new four-year contract that includes raises and bonuses for union members. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii personnel assisting in search for missing sailor in South China Sea. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Plans for an expansion of Hawaiian Memorial Park Cemetery won a key approval from a Honolulu City Council committee Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Kicked out of parks and off sidewalks, some 'innovative' homeless take to the water. Hawaii News Now.

The state Department of Public Safety has announced that eight inmates at a Hawaii correctional center have mumps. Associated Press.

Next spring, students at the University of Hawaii’s William S. Richardson School of Law will have a state-of-the-art building to advise their own clients. Civil Beat.

On Wednesday, Servco Pacific Inc. Chairman and CEO Mark Fukunaga and Hawaii Gov. David Ige will be among the officials scheduled to break ground on the company's hydrogen station, the first such station to be built on Oahu. Pacific Business News.

Damage from the July 14 high-rise fire at the Marco Polo condominium project has been estimated to exceed $100 million in one of the most destructive fires in Honolulu’s recent history, a Honolulu Fire Department spokesman said Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Damage from the seven-alarm fire that killed three people and injured five at the Marco Polo Apartments high-rise in Honolulu last month exceeded an estimated $100 million, one of the most destructive fires in modern history in Hawaii, officials said. Pacific Business News.

The Marco Polo high-rise fire that killed three people July 14 and caused at least $100 million in damage was not intentionally set, but investigators continue to search for the cause, the Honolulu Fire Department said Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Fire Department has released new details as it continues to investigate a 7-alarm fire that killed three people in the Marco Polo high-rise on July 14. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

A study of locations for one or more shooting ranges was advanced Tuesday by a County Council panel that voted unanimously to endorse the concept and support a working group to create a report. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii Electric Light Company held a public meetings Monday night on its plans to upgrade the Big Island power grid. Big Island Video News.

First homeless sweep of Old Airport Park cleanup begins. West Hawaii Today.

Mayor Harry Kim has made it a priority to clean up a West Hawaii Park where many homeless have been living illegally. Hawaii Public Radio.

The state has issued a gag order in a case involving the death of a 3-year-old Hawaii island boy in foster care. KHON2.

The sale of Mauna Lani Bay Hotel &Bungalows and other assets closed Tuesday, with DiamondHead Land officially taking ownership of the properties. West Hawaii Today.

The new owners of the Mauna Lani hotel and golf courses on Hawaii island rehired all employees when the deal closed Tuesday and said they plan to invest between $70 million and $90 million upgrading the resort. Star-Advertiser.

A joint venture between an affiliate of California-based real estate company ProspectHill Group and longtime Hawaii hotel executive Pat Fitzgerald has closed on its acquisition of the Mauna Lani Bay Hotel & Bungalows on Hawaii’s Big Island from a subsidiary of Japan-based Tokyu Corp. Pacific Business News.

Brightly colored and uniquely designed license plates featuring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Haleakala National Park hit the Big Island on Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

School bus riders at Lahainaluna High, Baldwin High and Iao Intermediate schools will be riding the Maui Bus instead of their regular yellow buses when school starts next week due to a “crisis” shortage of bus drivers for a new transportation provider, the state Department of Education said. Maui News.

As a new school bus vendor on Maui struggles to find credentialed drivers before the school year begins Monday, the Department of Education says it will halt bus routes for nearly 400 students and issue bus passes for use on the island’s public transportation. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii State Department of Education today announced route modifications to school bus service for students at Maui High, Lahainaluna High, Baldwin High and ʻĪao Intermediate. Maui Now.

The Hawaii Department of Education is taking drastic action due to a shortage of school bus drivers on Maui. KHON2.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources opened up the gates across Iao Valley Road to allow participants in the Iao Valley 10K to run to the Iao Valley State Monument, which has been closed since massive floods in September. Maui News.

The Maui Department of Fire and Public Safety welcomed New Deputy Fire Chief, Lionel Montalvo to the post during a swearing-in and badge pinning ceremony on Friday. Maui Now.

Kauai

While it’s certain that the upcoming school year for public schools on Kauai begins next week, what’s still up in the air is how each student who rides a school bus will get to class on time. Garden Island.

Work on restoration of the Ae Kamali‘i Preschool started as the mercury teased the 90-degree mark Monday at the facility on Kress Street adjacent to Lihue Christian Church. Garden Island.

Two meetings are slated next week on a project designed for safe access to the Hanalei National Wildlife Refuge. Garden Island.

Wailua condo association wants to clean heiau. Condo association looks to clean up heiau blanketed by weeds, grass, trees. Garden Island.

Hawaii certifies first medical marijuana lab, old hand picked as new Honolulu transit chief, telescope protest planned for Maui, Kauai police chief wins attorney fees, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Marijuana plant, courtesy Pixabay Commons

The state Department of Health today certified Hawaii’s first marijuana testing laboratory. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii approved its first laboratory to begin testing samples of medical marijuana 17 years after use of the drug was legalized in the state. Associated Press.

Dispensaries Closer To Opening As State Certifies First Cannabis-Testing Lab. A Honolulu laboratory can begin testing the products that will be sold to medical marijuana patients. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Department of Health on Monday granted Steep Hill Hawaii a provisional certification to begin testing medical cannabis from the state’s medical marijuana dispensaries and registered patients and caregivers. Pacific Business News.

The state Department of Health on Monday approved its first laboratory to begin testing medical marijuana, putting Hawaii’s dispensaries one step closer to being able to open. Tribune-Herald.

A private laboratory on Oahu has been certified by the state Department of Health to begin testing medical cannabis products, a long-awaited next step that brings Hawaii's eight dispensaries closer to completing their first sales, which could be as early as mid-August. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu lab first to conduct medical cannabis testing for Hawaii dispensaries. KITV.

The Hawaii Department of Health granted Steep Hill Hawaii, a private independent laboratory on Oahu, a provisional certification Monday after the laboratory passed and met requirements that demonstrate it has the capacity and proficiency to test cannabis and manufactured cannabis in compliance with state law. Maui Now.

Political candidates contemplating running for elected office in 2018 will be allowed to file nomination papers in 6 months. The Republican Party of Hawaii hopes to is resolve ongoing internal issues by then. Hawaii Public Radio.

Christina Kishimoto begins her new job leading Hawaii public schools today, ahead of Monday’s start of the 2017-18 school year. Star-Advertiser.

Public school students head back to class in a week, but the Department of Education says if it doesn’t find more bus drivers before then, there could be issues. KHON2.

Black people have a long history in Hawaii dating back to the 19th century. The state’s more than 21,000 blacks make up a little over 3 percent of the population. That compares to a national average of 13 percent and ranks Hawaii 39th among all state in the percentage of its population that is black. Hawaii Public Radio.

Matson Inc. sailed over a shallow trough of lower Hawaii cargo shipments to produce a 33 percent profit gain in the second quarter largely driven by enhanced business in China and Alaska. Star-Advertiser.

Mary Ann Barnes, who started as an intensive care unit nurse on the night shift with Kaiser Permanente in San Diego and rose through the ranks in a 43-year career to become president of Kaiser Foundation Health Plan and Hospitals Hawaii Region, will retire in September. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation has selected Andrew Robbins as the next, permanent executive director to lead the island’s financially challenged rail transit project. Star-Advertiser.

HART Board Chooses A New Executive Director. Andrew Robbins will take over as the city and state struggle to fully fund the 20-mile project, which has an estimated $3 billion shortfall. Civil Beat.

Oahu's beleaguered rail project has a new head. Hawaii News Now.

The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART) has named Andrew “Andy” Robbins as its new executive director Monday morning. KHON2.

The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation board on Monday voted to hire Andrew Robbins, an executive with Bombardier Transportation, to oversee the construction of Honolulu’s $10 billion rail transit project. Pacific Business News.

Andrew Robbins was a key member of the Oahu Transit Group that was working on the city’s rail project in the 1990s when it was killed by a Honolulu City Council vote, an outcome he called “a huge disappointment.” Star-Advertiser.

Scrutiny of Oahu company grows after it's tied to 2 recent plane crashes. Hawaii News Now.

How A Diamond Head Pitchman Eludes A Crackdown. The state says to compete with illegal sales of “I Climbed Diamond Head” certificates, it will sell its own souvenirs at the summit. Civil Beat.

Honolulu City Councilwoman Ann Kobayashi says she’s been receiving complaints about homeless setting up camp along streams in her district. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

A switch to cost-saving LED streetlights has saved Hawaii County enough money to pay for upgrades to traffic signals islandwide. Tribune-Herald.

Waiaha Deepwell’s return to service derailed by malfunction, cable break. West Hawaii Today.

Auto thefts have long been a concern on the Big Island. As of late, however, court documents describing some of these crimes have narratives that seem to be lifted from the script of a made-for-TV movie. Tribune-Herald.

Gov. David Ige has received a list of nominees from the Judicial Selection Commission for the vacancies created by the retirement of former Big Island circuitjudges Glenn S. Hara and Ronald Ibarra. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui Health System, the Kaiser Permanente Hawaii entity that took over operation of three state-owned hospitals in Maui County earlier this month, has named Michael Rembis CEO and hospital administrator. Pacific Business News.

Just a month after Maui Health System assumed operations at Maui County hospitals, the Kaiser affiliate and its parent company have announced changes in top leadership. Maui News.

A peaceful protest of a slow-moving wide load of telescope parts for the Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope atop Haleakala is planned at King Kekaulike High School in Pukalani tonight and into Wednesday. Maui News.

Sovereignty Restoration Day marked with kalo-pounding event. Maui News.

After more than a century, taro is now once again growing in Kahoma Valley on Maui. Hawaii News Now.

Hokulea Coming to Honolua, Aug. 19. Maui Now.

Kauai

Darryl Perry, chief of the Kauai Police Department, was recently reimbursed over $12,000 for attorney fees after he filed a complaint against the county. Garden Island.

A survey for the Kauai Bus Short-Range Transit Plan will be open until Sept. 4. Garden Island.

Local divers are hosting a public meeting to discuss the preservation of Kauai’s popular dive sites at 6 p.m. Thursday at the Lihue Public Library. Garden Island.

Tax hikes loom as state spends more than it collects, universal basic income debated, dock strikes unlikely, snorkel deaths studied, Honolulu official leaving in wake of critical audit, Big Island biomass gets PUC approval, Kauai Syngenta changes hands, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii state Capitol, courtesy Charles Freedman

For the second time in five years, the state is being warned that its tax collections likely won’t be enough to cover its costs in the years ahead, which may mean tax increases in Hawaii’s future. Star-Advertiser.

Commentary: Recently, some very notable people including Mark Zuckerberg of Facebook have been championing the idea of “universal basic income,” which basically is a payment from the government to individuals simply for being alive. Our Legislature latched onto that idea, passing House Concurrent Resolution 89. West Hawaii Today.


Ocean safety advocates are working on ways to gather more data to determine why so many more visitors die snorkeling in Hawaii than local residents. Civil Beat.


With the impacts of climate change bearing down on Hawaii, government officials and community members need to make some important decisions about the islands’ iconic coastlines, said Dolan Eversole, a coastal hazards expert with the University of Hawaii’s Sea Grant program. Civil Beat.

A political scientist, acting as an agent for the government of the Hawaiian Kingdom in international proceedings, believes the time is right to go forward with an International Commission of Inquiry at the Hague. Big Island Video News.

The International Longshore and Warehouse Union said that early West Coast election results show an existing labor contract with waterfront employers represented the Pacific Maritime Association will be extended by three years. Pacific Business News.

New cases of mumps statewide have risen by close to 40 percent since late June, prompting health officials to continue monitoring the infection and encourage vaccinations. Star-Advertiser.


Oahu

An audit of the Section 8 Tenant-Based Assistance Program administered by the city finds key deficiencies in several areas but says it generally meets federal requirements. Star-Advertiser.


City Community Services Director Gary Nakata is resigning from his post at the end of the week, Honolulu Managing Director Roy Amemiya said in a memorandum to Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s Cabinet officials late Friday. Star-Advertiser.

When the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission issued an order earlier this month accepting Hawaiian Electric Co.’s long-term plan for supplying power to customers, one part of the plan stood out: a 44 percent rate increase on Oahu over 10 years. Civil Beat.

A Hawaiian Electric Co. pilot program meant to encourage customers to shift energy use to the daytime has seen little interest. Star-Advertiser.

A leak in the basement of Honolulu’s Daniel K. Inouye International Airport may be a pricey problem to fix. Star-Advertiser.


The Fight To Save Ancient Hawaiian Archeological Sites. Fearing future development of a Leeward valley rich with cultural history, some community members are pushing for preservation. Civil Beat.

After months of fielding complaints from residents, the Nanakuli-Maili Neighborhood Board wants to stop what it sees as overuse of the Waianae Coast by commercial tour groups that locals say clog the beaches and prevent easy public access. Civil Beat.


A third Oahu neighborhood will be getting a restricted parking zone. KHON2.

Friday night's plane crash above Kunia is the latest incident in a string of single engine aircrafts that have gone down in Hawaii over the last year. Hawaii News Now.


The plane that went down is the second plane from Aircraft Maintenance and Flight School Hawaii to crash on Oahu in the last month. KITV.


The bodies of Dean Hutton, Gerrit Evensen, Heather Riley and Alexis Aaron were discovered late Saturday afternoon at the wreckage of the aircraft in the Waianae Mountains above Kunia. The Beech 19A, manufactured in 1969, took off from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport for a sunset flight Friday. Star-Advertiser.

For months, Hawaii store owners and residents have prepared for the end of Ward Warehouse — and now it's finally here. Hawaii News Now.

Hotel executive Kelly Hoen has managed six Hawaii hotels in a career that now sees her as area general manager for Outrigger. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

The state Public Utilities Commission approved Hawaii Electric Light Co.’s contract with a half-built biomass facility on the Big Island on Friday. Star-Advertiser.

The state Public Utilities Commission informed Hu Honua Bioenergy on Friday that it approved its amended and restated power purchase agreement with Hawaii Electric Light Company. Tribune-Herald.

The state Land Board will hear oral arguments on a hearings officer’s recommendation in favor of the Thirty Meter Telescope land use permit Sept. 20 in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

A long-awaited public gun range for Hawaii Island may finally get a shot at success, depending on how the County Council handles a resolution up for vote next week. West Hawaii Today.

International competition and retirements are decreasing the number of commercial orchid growers in Hawaii. Tribune-Herald.

Once a $90 million project expected to wrap up in September, phase two of the Queen Kaahumanu Highway widening has grown to a $105 million project now planned to be substantially completed next August. West Hawaii Today.

Access to the shoreline park at Kohanaiki should be easier, now that a new frontage road has been completed by developers of a luxury community there. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County and a property owner have been unable to agree on a purchase price for a large parcel in Hakalau Valley. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui hospital raises fee but retreats after moms protest. The hospital raised the price for a private room to $672 from $152 on July 1 when Maui Health System, a subsidiary of Kaiser Permanente Hawaii, assumed control of operations of Maui Memorial, Kula Hospital & Clinic and Lanai Community Hospital in the largest privatization in state history. Star-Advertiser.

Construction costs could hit as much as $75 million for the Wailuku Parking and Events Facility, which includes a multilevel parking structure and three-story building for retail, Maui County offices and special events space. Maui News.

Maui Electric Co. has been given the green light to expand its “Fast Demand Response” program from four to a projected 13 Maui businesses, which would receive bill credits to reduce their energy use with 10 minutes’ notice to stabilize the grid when demand exceeds generation. Maui News.

At least four repair projects are planned for sections of Piilani Highway in the vicinity of Kaupo, and one of them — the repair of Waiopai Bridge — has the remote community concerned because work could close the road for a month or more, according to Jonathan Starr, a board member of the Kaupo Community Association. Maui News.


Kauai

About three months after announcing a six-month freeze on filling new vacancies in county jobs, the administration is changing course. Garden Island.

Hartung Brothers take over Syngenta Kekaha operations. Garden Island.

A new affordable housing project in Poipu has an aggressive construction timeline. Garden Island.

Kauai’s strong tourism season seems to be good for some, but not all, businesses. Garden Island.

The U.S. Department of Veterans’ Affairs approved lease agreements to build community-based outpatient clinics on Kauai and Maui. The project construction will total $9.9 million. Garden Island.

Molokai

Molokai’s south shore is knee-deep in invasive algae. A new report from a team of scientists and volunteers provides a ‘good reality check for the community’ Maui News.

Engineers to present plan for ex-bombing range on Molokai. Public comment will be accepted during meeting scheduled for Kaunakakai. Maui News.

Visitor arrivals and spending increase, Honolulu mayor signs pedestrian crosswalk cellphone ban, bones unearthed at Kona park, Kauai man claiming kuleana land cleared of trespassing, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki beach beauties © 2017 All Hawaii News

Visitor arrivals and spending grew for the 13th straight month in June, setting new monthly and midyear records and keeping tourism on track for a blistering full-year finish. Star-Advertiser.

Visitor spending increased 8.7 percent to $8.4 billion during the first half of 2017, while arrivals increased 4.3 percent to 4.6 million, compared to the same period last year, according to preliminary statistics released Thursday by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Pacific Business News.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority says spending by visitors surged nearly 9 percent during the first half of the year compared to last year. Associated Press.

Visitors in the first half of 2017 spent a total of $8.4 billion in the Hawaiian Islands, an increase of 8.7% compared to the first half of 2016, according to preliminary statistics released today by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Maui Now.

A report conducted by the Outdoor Industry Association shows that the outdoor recreation economy in Hawaii directly contributes 68,000 jobs, annually generates $7.8 billion in consumer spending, as well as $604 million in state and local tax revenue. Pacific Business News.

Save Beaches Or Property? Climate Change Will Force Tough Choices. A coastal hazard expert briefs Hawaii officials and others about the need to adapt to rising sea levels and warmer temperatures. Civil Beat.

An infusion of more than $1 million in federal money has been promised to support research on marine species in the Pacific Ocean. Garden Island.

The U.S. Pacific Fleet commander said Thursday he would launch a nuclear strike against China next week if President Donald Trump ordered it, and warned against the military ever shifting its allegiance from its commander in chief. Associated Press.

The mental health of alleged terrorist sympathizer Ikaika Kang, a U.S. army sergeant from Waimanalo, is under scrutiny at a time when the deep psychological wounds of war are getting more attention across the country. Civil Beat.

Transgender Army vet deplores president’s messages. Star-Advertiser.

Public comments are sought on the State Environmental Council’s preliminary draft of revised administrative rules for the preparation of environmental impact statements. Maui News.

More than 20 years have passed since the first charter school was authorized here in Hawai’i. Since then, public charter schools have fueled educational innovation to offer students and parents school choice. Next month, two more charter schools will open their doors. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Public Radio’s Board of Directors capped their first meeting of the fiscal year on July 24 by approving a 2017-2018 budget showing revenue of $5.49 million. Garden Island.

The latest forecast for Tropical Storm Irwin and Hurricane Hilary has them staying far to our east, and eventually crossing paths and becoming one storm. It's something called the Fujiwhara effect. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Pedestrians on Oahu can still talk on their cellphone while crossing the street, but texting or using other electronic devices in a crosswalk is no longer allowed under a bill signed into law Thursday by Mayor Kirk Caldwell. Star-Advertiser.

It's official. Beginning in October, looking at mobile devices while crossing the street will be illegal. Hawaii News Now.

If you have a habit of using your phone while crossing the street, you might want to rethink soon. KITV.

Make sure you put your phones away when crossing the street. KHON2.

The Honolulu rail board is in final talks to hire as its new top executive a rail technology firm manager who once battled the city over its most expensive rail contract, according to multiple sources familiar with the situation. Star-Advertiser.

Contractor bails on multiple projects, costing city, state millions. Hawaii News Now.

Solar energy projects with the combined capability of powering more than 17,900 homes have been approved to connect to Hawaiian Electric Co.’s grid. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric Co. has gotten the green light from the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission for its application to purchase energy generated by three solar farms being built by Houston-based NRG Energy Inc. Pacific Business News.

Efforts to bring the Miss Universe pageant to Honolulu this year — the 20th anniversary of when Hawaii’s Brook Lee was crowned — ended this week after pageant officials determined that the Neal S. Blaisdell Arena did not meet the event’s structural requirements. Star-Advertiser.

New details emerge as fire officials review response to deadly Marco Polo high-rise fire. KHON2.

The Honolulu Fire Department has revised the alarm status of the fatal fire at Marco Polo condominium to a 7-alarm fire from a 5-alarm fire after further review. Star-Advertiser.

The estate of prominent lawyer Gary O. Galiher is suing to block a new entity comprising the late attorney’s employees and associates from taking the records and files of the Galiher law corporation. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Bones found in Kailua-Kona park. A cultural impact assessment for the Kailua Park master plan from 2010 indicated that ancient, undiscovered burial sites likely still existed in multiple areas within Old Kona Airport Park. West Hawaii Today.

A 3rd Circuit Court judge Thursday dismissed a lawsuit filed by a Kapaau man fighting his housing project’s ban on smoking, which includes smoking medical marijuana. West Hawaii Today.

Judge Riki May Amano's recommendation TMT organizers proceed with obtaining construction permits from the state land board has rattled those in opposition of the controversial project atop Mauna Kea. KITV.

Ownership of the Puna Kai shopping center property in Pahoa is expected to change hands this week, and the new owner says construction will begin within days. Tribune-Herald.

Parents who want to homeschool their kids don't encounter any resistance — not even if they're under investigation by state Child Protective Services, a Hawaii News Now investigation has found. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

Dealing with feral animals at small-boat harbors and amendments to dive-flag rules were among the subjects testifiers addressed during a Wednesday evening hearing on proposed rule changes to boating laws and rules at small-boat harbors. Maui News.

Since the beginning of the year, DLNR Division of State Parks maintenance staff on Kaua‘i have gathered, bagged, and airlifted 10.92 tons of rubbish from the Kalalau section of the Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park. Maui Now.

A “Talk Story with Gov. David Ige” event, hosted by the Hawaii State Teachers Association, will be held from 2:30 to 4 p.m. Saturday in the Baldwin High School Multipurpose Room in Wailuku. Maui News.

Kauai

A man who claimed kuleana land on the North Shore is no longer facing a criminal trespass charge. Garden Island.

Questions about the Lehua Island rat eradication and restoration project were rampant at a Tuesday meeting in Waimea. Garden Island.