Tuesday, April 18, 2017

Schatz begins island town hall tour, Gabbard building campaign chest, state unveils mapping program, potholes pique Honolulu motorists, Bernie backers take over local Democratic Party, Maui council chairman cleared of ethics charge, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz, Facebook photo by Cynthia Pope Fritts
Hawaii's U.S. Senator Brian Schatz is in the islands offering his perspectives on everything from Trump to Syria. More than 500 community members packed a room at Chaminade University Monday for Schatz's first Honolulu town hall this year. KITV.

U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz nimbly fielded questions on a range of weighty policy issues ranging from internet privacy, health care, North Korea’s nuclear threat and the situation in Syria during a mid-day town hall meeting at Chaminade University’s Richard Mamiya Theatre in Kaimuki today. Star-Advertiser.

Should U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard choose to run for re-election next year — or for some other federal office — she’s already got $2 million to spend. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Police Agencies Struggle To Equip Officers With Body Cameras. Civil Beat.

The House of Representatives recently passed Senate Bill 174, which seeks to allow people to qualify for medical marijuana if they suffer from lupus, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis or arthritis. Garden Island.

A state House member is seeking input about legislation that would make vote-by-mail standard protocol in Hawaii. Tribune-Herald.

Maps identifying everything from the locations of homeless shelters to ahupuaa boundaries are now available online to the public thanks to a partnership between the state Office of Planning and the Office of Enterprise Technology Services. Star-Advertiser.

Federal grant money is being offered to Hawaii nonprofit organizations, public agencies and federally recognized tribal groups for initiatives that serve rural areas. Star-Advertiser.

North Korea tensions, disease not deterring isle tourists. Star-Advertiser.

Commentary: What Your Lawmakers Are Getting Away With. There are even more tax increases than usual making their way through the Hawaii Legislature. Civil Beat.

Hawaii chef Sam Choy is gearing up for another luau at Facebook’s Meno Park, Cali., headquarters next month after working with Google — another one of the world’s most influential companies — for many years. Pacific Business News.

Bank of Hawaii is pulling its ATMs out of McDonald’s systemwide after being a fixture in the fast-food restaurants for more than two decades. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Oahu’s streets get sorry marks from likely voters, with only 1 percent ranking them as “very good.” On the other end, 26 percent of those surveyed in the latest Hawaii Poll said Oahu streets are in “very poor” condition. Star-Advertiser.

Sales of single family homes doubled in parts of Honolulu this March. KITV.

Hawaii Island

Several Kona residents on Monday pushed back against a proposal to build a 306-unit condominium development in Kahaluu. West Hawaii Today.

Fueled by the 2016 Bernie Sanders movement, a new wave of leadership is taking over the Hawaii County Democratic Party. West Hawaii Today.

Planning for the last extension of Saddle Road is moving ahead, though it remains unclear when construction funds will be available. Tribune-Herald.

A bill aimed at increasing housing opportunities for Hawaii Island’s farm workers moves into conferencing this week, marking the latest hurdle cleared for the measure. Tribune-Herald.

The new attorney for "Peter Boy" Kema's relatives says the state's Department of Human Services should be held accountable for the decision to return the 6-year-old to his abusive parents 20 years ago, despite multiple warnings that the child's life could be in danger. Hawaii News Now.

A case of a harmful honey bee disease has popped up on the Big Island. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui

An ethics complaint against Maui County Council Chairman Mike White has been dismissed. Maui News.

A notice has been issued for the opening of applications for the affordable rental housing lottery at the County of Maui’s Kulamalu Hale. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kauai Police Chief Darryl Perry has his eyes set on leading the department in the city where his career in law enforcement began — Honolulu. Garden Island.

Monday, April 17, 2017

Hawaii poll mixed on Trump immigration enforcement, Tulsi Gabbard says Hawaii in North Korea 'crosshairs,' Oahu poll shows airport authority opposition, resistance to pay more for rail, Green mulls lieutenant governor post, Kauai police chief seeks Honolulu job, Maui mayoral candidate in car crash, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy Gannatd congressional office
U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard in Windward Oahu, courtesy Gabbard congressional office
U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard faced a rowdy crowd in Kailua on Saturday night for one of seven town hall meetings that she’s holding throughout the islands. Star-Advertiser.

Gabbard Focuses On North Korea Amid Questions About Syria. At her most contentious of three town hall meetings so far, the congresswoman tells her Kailua audience that Hawaii is in the “crosshairs.” Civil Beat.

Despite assertions of widespread consensus, Hawaii appears to be divided over whether the state should be spending money challenging President Donald Trump’s revised ban on travel to the United States by individuals from certain countries. Star-Advertiser.

Should Hawaii Defy Trump On Immigration Enforcement? Lawmakers are debating whether Hawaii should join communities balking at cooperating with the crackdown on criminal immigrants. Civil Beat.

The chairmen of Hawaii’s House and Senate tourism committees expect to meet in the upcoming week to resolve differences over vacation rental tax bills that have passed their respective chambers. Associated Press.

When compared with four international vacation destinations, Hawaii hotels were more expensive and less occupied during the month of March. Pacific Business News.

State lawmakers are hoping to alleviate the cost of college for some students with House Bill 1594. The proposed legislation would set up a new scholarship program called "Hawaii Promise." KITV.

State Sen. Josh Green has already laid out an ambitious project he’d take on as lieutenant governor. The only thing he hasn’t quite done yet is announce he’s running. West Hawaii Today.

The Fight Over Papahanaumokuakea Just Escalated. It’s not just Wespac that’s lobbying President Trump to undo marine monument protections in the Pacific. Civil Beat.

The solar industry continues to contract on the neighbor islands. Star-Advertiser.

Four Marine Corps Ospreys are expected to fly nearly 6,000 miles from Hawaii to Australia this week, refueling in midair and stopping a couple of times — while demonstrating again the long range, speed and versatility of the unique tilt-rotor aircraft, the Corps said. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

The latest Hawaii Poll by the Honolulu Star-Advertiser suggests a majority of likely Oahu voters want the city’s rail project to reach Ala Moana Center but are reluctant to pay more taxes to do so. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu residents are not particularly pleased with the condition of Honolulu International Airport, but a majority of them oppose the plan to create a new airport authority to try to better manage and maintain the state’s airport system. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu residents generally think homeowners should be able to rent part or all of their homes to visitors, but results of the latest Hawaii Poll were evenly split on whether online travel booking sites like Airbnb should collect taxes for clients. Star-Advertiser.

A bill introduced by two Honolulu City Council members would eliminate the city’s controversial Residential A tax category. Star-Advertiser.

A deadline has passed, but Gov. David Ige still could fill two upcoming vacancies on a state board regulating development in Kakaako using a controversial list of candidates from the Honolulu City Council. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Gas Co. said recently it expects to act on plans to integrate biogas from the city’s Honouliuli Wastewater Treatment Plant into its pipeline. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii State Department of Education will receive a $70 million grant from the U.S. Department of Defense’s Office of Economic Adjustment to make major improvements to Solomon Elementary School at Schofield Barracks in Central Oahu. Pacific Business News.

Many beachgoers in Lanikai returned to their vehicles on Easter Sunday with tickets left on their windshields. Hawaii News Now.

Commentary: Rail-financing controversy sure to take politicians’ futures for a ride. Star-Advertiser.

Commentary: As the Legislature nears its crunch, key lawmakers are showing signs they finally mean what they say about holding Honolulu rail accountable for incessant mismanagement and budget deficits. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Tests find no depleted uranium threat: But critics file petitions challenging Pohakuloa Training Area radiation monitoring. Tribune-Herald.

Major Kahaluu development draws concerns. West Hawaii Today.

A Hilo-based aerospace agency is on the chopping block as lawmakers sort out the state’s budget. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County collaborators are working on several fronts — making sure at least half of all police patrol vehicles per shift carry an automated external defibrillator, or AED, which can shock a heart back into normal rhythm — and teaching high school students hands-only CPR. Tribune-Herald.

VIDEO: Merrie Monarch Festival Begins In Hilo. Big Island Video News.

Merrie Monarch Festival schedule. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Mayor Alan Arakawa took 34 county-funded trips costing about $33,800 in 2016. Maui News.

A $28 million Maui estate that hosted celebrities such as Michael Jackson, Prince and Mel Gibson has been listed by Hawaii Life. Pacific Business News.

The median price of a single-family home in Maui County soared to $769,000 in March, the highest monthly benchmark in more than a decade, the Realtors Association of Maui reported this week. Maui News.

Former Maui County Councilman and mayoral candidate Mike Victorino was involved in a collision Thursday night in Kahului that sent two teenagers to the hospital with nonlife-threatening injuries. Garden Island.

Lettuce and kale sales have dipped in recent weeks in response to an unusual number of rat lungworm cases on Maui that have left many visitors and residents questioning where produce is grown. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai Police Chief Darryl Perry wants to return to Oahu to run a department that he believes is in need of competent leadership after years of scandal. Civil Beat.

The federal government and the state have taken a step back on the regulation of the restricted-use pesticide chlorpyrifos, but activists on Kauai aren’t giving up. Garden Island.

Vehicles are now using the new steel bridge over Keahua Stream on “Loop Road” — and a few people have found it creates an advantage for them. Garden Island.

The state’s planned 4-foot-wide aluminum pedestrian bridge over Hanakapiai Stream on Kauai’s North Shore is up for discussion — a community meeting will be held Tuesday in Hanalei. Garden Island.

A young green sea turtle was reportedly attacked and injured by a man Thursday at Nawiliwili Harbor. Garden Island.

Friday, April 14, 2017

Taking out the trash in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, state House, citing Korea threat, seeks fallout shelter plans, Honolulu airport spending probed, Maui water woes, Kauai police cams protect officers, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

NOAA photo
Monk seal on fish nets, courtesy NOAA
100,000 Pounds Of Debris Hauled Out Of Papahanaumokuakea. The marine junk from the reefs and shores of Midway and Kure atolls was brought to Honolulu, where it will be incinerated. Civil Beat.

Agencies join to ship 50 tons of trash from atolls. The charter vessel Kahana arrived here last week carrying 12 shipping containers filled with derelict fishing gear, old nets, faded plastics and lots of other junk. Star-Advertiser.

courtesy NOAA
NOAA
Derelict Fishing Gear in the Pacific Northwest. NOAA blog.

Approximately 100,000 pounds of marine debris was removed from sites within the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. Maui Now.

Hawaii lawmakers want state officials to update plans for coping with a nuclear attack as North Korea develops nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles that can reach the islands. The state House public safety committee unanimously passed a resolution Thursday. Associated Press.

State lawmakers introduced a resolution this week urging the state Department of Defense to update disaster preparation plans for Hawaii in the event of a nuclear attack amid escalating political tensions between the United States and North Korea. Star-Advertiser.

Tensions are firing up with North Korea, and the situation is especially concerning for Hawaii given how close we are to the country. KHON2.

Rep. Matthew LoPresti says a revisiting of Hawaii’s disaster resilience plan has been a long time coming and is particularly crucial now in light of escalating threats of a North Korean nuclear attack on the state — or at least the escalating perception of such threats. West Hawaii Today.

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The chairwoman of a key committee involved in confirming Gov. David Ige’s controversial nominee for the state’s Public Utilities Commission indicated she will allow the governor’s choice to move ahead. Star-Advertiser.

Why Tom Gorak’s Appointment To The PUC May Be In Trouble. As the legislative session nears its end, a committee hearing has not been scheduled on the nomination. Civil Beat.

A pair of bills that would’ve changed Hawaii law in response to Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s “quiet title” actions filed against owners of small pieces of land, or kuleana lands, have been shelved. Pacific Business News.

Eight Hawaii hospitals received a top grade of "A" in the latest national hospital safety report from The Leapfrog Group. Pacific Business News.

More Hawaii public school students are expected to secure internships and apprenticeships during and after high school under a new initiative to better prepare graduates for high-demand jobs and expose them to potential careers. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

A consultant tasked with overseeing construction on a long-stalled $90 million maintenance and cargo project at Honolulu airport was later granted a $2.4 million contract extension by the state, and some lawmakers want to know why. Star-Advertiser.

The state will continue community meetings next week to discuss the future of the Oahu Community Correctional Center. KITV.

NRG Energy, the Houston-based company that took over bankrupt SunEdison’s renewable energy projects in Hawaii, plans to start construction on these three projects next year, according to public documents. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Council talks trash: West Hawaii landfill expected to last 150 years. West Hawaii Today.

The University of Hawaii at Hilo is employing drones to track the impact of rising sea levels on Hawaii Island shores. Tribune-Herald.

Will Popular Big Island Trail Someday Get Toilets? Big Island activists have for years unsuccessfully prodded officials to install toilets on the ancient Kaawaloa trail to the Captain Cook Monument. Civil Beat.

A massive “tree” is taking root on Kawailani Street in Hilo as a large cellular tower put in place earlier this year is covered with fake green branches. Tribune-Herald.

Report paves way for Peter Boy lawsuit: Probe finds state failed to follow its own rules. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The Numbers Behind the Upcountry Water Shortage. Maui Now.

Upcountry water users are using slightly less water several days after the county Department of Water Supply issued a directive calling for voluntary conservation due to recent low rainfall in a watershed. Maui News.

As required by the State Department of Health, the Department of Water Supply is informing the public of the continued use of Wākiu Well C, the new water source for the Wākiu area, Hāna School, Hāna Medical Center, Waiʻānapanapa area, and ʻUakea Road. Maui Now.

The Maui County Liquor Control Commission has tentatively scheduled a special meeting for May 9 to hear public testimony on new liquor rules that allow the retail sale of alcohol 24/7. Maui News.

Charge for threat on mayor dismissed. This is the second time count dropped against Wailuku man. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai police use body cam footage to clear officers of misconduct claims. Hawaii News Now.

The young seal removed from Lihi Canal in Kapaa has returned after being relocated to the Westside late last month, and experts aren’t going to move the seal again. Garden Island.

Kamalani Bridge at Lydgate Park will be closed from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday to allow a group of volunteers to spray paint the structure. Spearheading the project is The Friends of Kamalani and Lydgate Park. Garden Island.

Lanai

Despite heavy rain, about 100 people sloshed through the puddles to the community center in this tiny town for a chance to hear U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, who has become something of a media celebrity on national TV networks. Civil Beat.

Thursday, April 13, 2017

Lifeguard liability at issue, guided missile destroyers at Pearl Harbor, grid opens to more solar, transparency wins on Big Island, footbridge coming to Ala Wai, Kauai seeks police officers, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2017 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Hawaii lifeguards © 2017 All Hawaii News
City and county leaders warned Wednesday that Hawaii taxpayers will pay the price if state lawmakers refuse to pass a bill extending liability protection for lifeguards working at public beaches. Star-Advertiser.

County lifeguards will remain on state beaches even if the Legislature ends the protection they have had since 2002 from certain personal-injury lawsuits, a group of mayors and council members said Wednesday. Civil Beat.

Hawaii lifeguards may lose legal protections under amended bill. KHON2.

A bill that calls for generating education funding through a new surcharge on hotels and vacation properties has cleared the state House and is slated for conference. Tribune-Herald.

Nearly one year after the state chose its eight medical marijuana dispensaries, not one patient has actually been able to buy any cannabis. KITV.

Two guided missile destroyers stopped in Pearl Harbor as part of a relatively new ship grouping on their way to an increasing U.S. Navy armada — and a good deal of uncertainty — in the Western Pacific. Star-Advertiser.

Press release: Ships and units from the Sterett-Dewey Surface Action Group (Sterett-Dewey SAG) arrived at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, April 11, the first stop of the group's Western Pacific deployment. U.S. Navy.

A Native Hawaiian fisherman is asking a state board to declare that only people who are lawfully admitted to the United States can get commercial fishing licenses. The petition was filed Wednesday in response to an Associated Press investigation that found hundreds of foreign fishermen confined to boats and some living in subpar conditions. Associated Press.

A documentary film about a transgender woman in Hawaii that has received awards and won wide praise is being cited by a Republican congressman as a waste of government money and a reason to eliminate federal funding for public broadcasting. Civil Beat.

A state Senate confirmation hearing has not been set yet for Thomas Gorak, commissioner for the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission, who was nominated to serve a term until 2022 by Gov. David Ige late last month. Pacific Business News.

Hawaiian Electric said Wednesday the utility is opening up space for about 2,800 additional rooftop solar systems to connect to the grid. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric Co. has enough capacity on one of its rooftop solar energy programs to accommodate about 2,800 customers, the utility said Wednesday. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

The city is moving forward with design and planning work for a pedestrian and bike bridge across the Ala Wai Canal that would align with University Avenue and Kalaimoku Street. ​ Star-Advertiser.

Wind farm developers looking to build in agricultural or country zones on Oahu must host a public hearing, present details to the area neighborhood board or community association and notify nearby property owners of the pending permit application, according to rule changes adopted by the Honolulu Planning Commission. Star-Advertiser.

A $2 million fund aimed at helping business owners adversely affected by construction of the city’s contentious East Kapolei-to-Ala Moana Center rail project is included in the latest version of the city’s $2.45 billion operating budget. Star-Advertiser.

Many social service agencies rely on the Hawaii Foodbank to get meals to those who need them most. Hawaii News Now.

The UH Athletics Department is looking at ways to energize its area there in the quarry on the Mānoa campus. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

Several County Council members took Planning Director Michael Yee to task as he presented his budget plans Tuesday, after he listed public participation as one of the top three goals of his department. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County Council members hounded Mayor Harry Kim on two high-priced administration hires during Tuesday’s Finance Committee discussion on the proposed county budget. Big Island Video News.

More than 100 UH-Hilo students, staff exposed to TB; Testing clinics slated for next week; expert says risk of infection low. Tribune-Herald.

Four Hawaii Island residents are challenging Nuclear Regulatory Commission approval of Army monitoring plans for depleted uranium, or DU, at Pohakuloa. Big Island Video News.

A long-simmering threat to Hawaii Island’s honeybees has resurfaced. American foulbrood, a disease caused by bacteria that infect bee larvae, was discovered in a hive in Volcano last week. Tribune-Herald.

A 39-year-old woman will serve 90 days in jail for her role in the distribution of more than 3,700 hydrocodone pills over 10 months while a receptionist for a medical center. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The Maui County Liquor Control Commission has tentatively scheduled a special meeting for May 9 to hear public testimony on new liquor rules that allow the retail sale of alcohol 24/7. Maui News.

Maui veterans are calling for improvements to the Veterans Choice Program, an option that allows those who live far from Veterans Affairs medical facilities to seek care with civilian doctors. Maui News.

Piʻilani Highway near Kalepa Point in East Maui is now open following repairs conducted at a sink hole reported earlier today. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kauai Police Department is hiring, looking nationwide for potential candidates. KHON2.

The Kauai County Council took a stance against discrimination Wednesday by passing an amended resolution. Garden Island.

Over a week before a video surfaced of a man being dragged off a United Airlines flight went viral, a California man experienced a similar situation from the same airline before he departed Kauai. Garden Island.

Wednesday, April 12, 2017

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

copyright 2017 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
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.

copyright 2017 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
© 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.

Tuesday, April 11, 2017

Aquarium fish trade up for debate, police body cam bills die, Senate withholding public testimony, Oahu property taxes could spike to pay for rail, Ige meeting with bond rating agencies, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands


copyright 2017 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Lowfin chub and parrotfish © 2017 All Hawaii News
 During the next two weeks, Hawaii lawmakers will be negotiating the final details of a bill to limit fishing for the commercial aquarium trade — potentially capping a decades-old battle that has pitted fish collectors against conservationists and tour operators. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s Department of the Attorney General says the state Senate improperly denied a person’s constitutional protected right to submit testimony for legislative hearings. An attorney general opinion says legislators cannot censor public testimony about proposed bills. But they did just that. Civil Beat.

Legislative measures to increase accountability and transparency at the Hawaii Tourism Authority are dead this session, but lawmakers have attempted an end run by asking the state auditor to deliver the agency’s 2018 management audit by the start of next session. Star-Advertiser.

There won’t be a law this year requiring Hawaii’s police departments to purchase and use vehicle and body-worn video cameras. Tribune-Herald.

Gov. David Ige and other state government officials began two days of meetings Monday in San Francisco with the three major credit agencies in a bid to obtain favorable bond ratings that will allow the state to borrow money at reduced interest rates. Star-Advertiser.

Tulsi Gabbard’s stance on Syria puts her back in the hot seat. Star-Advertiser.

Ten “town hall” events are scheduled to take place in Hawaii in the next two weeks, including seven scheduled by U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, two by U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz and one conducted by U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Airlines’ stock soared more than 5 percent Monday after the company raised its revenue expectations for the first quarter. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Oahu property taxes would need to jump 8 to 14 percent for the city to pay the remaining tab on an East Kapolei-to-Ala Moana rail line if state lawmakers don’t agree to a 10-year extension on the general excise tax surcharge, city officials told the Honolulu Star-Advertiser.

The Division of State Parks has launched a high-tech campaign to prevent homeless campers from returning to the Diamond Head State Monument. Civil Beat.

A company that was declared in default and removed more than a year ago from a state project to build a new hangar at Hono­lulu Airport now says it was wrongfully terminated from the job by the state Department of Transportation. Star-Advertiser.

Hikers near the Kuliouou Ridge Trail are beginning to make some resident's homes their homes. Residents say they've been dealing with trash and even people trekking through front yards to borrow garden hoses. KITV.

One of two managers who was scheduled to go to trial next month on felony charges related to a fatal fireworks explosion in a former Navy munitions bunker in Waikele has pleaded guilty to a lesser charge in U.S. District Court. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu City Council members were briefed last week on plans to ease parking and delivery congestion in Waikiki. Hawaii Public Radio.

Transforming an empty Waikiki retail building that was once anchored by a NikeTown store into a seven-story hotel is projected to begin in 2018 and be complete in mid-2020. Star-Advertiser.

Michaels Development Co., one of the largest private sector affordable housing owners and developers in the United States, recently revealed details regarding its long-planned affordable housing project in Kapolei, including that the development could start construction by the end of this year. Pacific Business News.

Great Harvest Bread Co., a bakery and lunch restaurant in Downtown Honolulu, has closed for good. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

The state Land Board this week will consider approving a drone survey of forests affected by rapid ohia death and review proposed regulations that include restricting access to state forest reserves during emergencies. Tribune-Herald.

Alii bridge and culvert to be replaced at Kahului Bay. West Hawaii Today.

A $94,500 stewardship agreement for the county-acquired property by the Waipi’o Valley Lookout, Koaʻekea, will continue. Big Island Video News.

Debate rages in Waikoloa Village over homeowner subsidization of golf course. West Hawaii Today.

The agency charged with running Hawaii's small boat harbors blatantly mistreats and retaliates against residents who use the facilities, according to Hawaii County's prosecuting attorney. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

Members of a group opposed to new laws allowing the retail sale of alcohol 24/7 are expected to appear at the Maui County Liquor Control Commission meeting at 9 a.m. Wednesday in the Trask Building in Wailuku. Maui News.

The closing of Hawaii’s last sugar mill on Maui was the end of an era. But there’s a new cadre of innovative food startups and entrepreneurs hoping to write a new chapter for the Valley Isle’s agricultural story. Star-Advertiser.

Maui’s Kepaniwai Park at ʻĪao reopened today to increased visitor and residential traffic, after seven month closure. Maui Now.

County reopens Kepaniwai Park. Maui News.

Researchers are calling it an epidemic: a big spike in the number of people infected with rat lungworm disease in Hawaii. KHON2.

California couple contract rat lungworm disease during Maui honeymoon. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

A local cattle company that operates with 1,500 mama cows on the island recently received a six-figure investment from a Hawaii-based venture capital fund. Garden Island.

If all goes as planned, Lehua Island, a 284-acre state-designated seabird sanctuary less than a mile north of Niihau, will be rat-free in the near future. Civil Beat.

The concepts for five interpretive signs explaining the history and landscape of the Puna District will be unveiled at this year’s Earth Day celebration at Lydgate Beach Park. Garden Island.

AutoZone is opening its first store on the island of Kauai in the 8,575-square-foot former Blockbuster Video space at the Foodland-anchored Waipouli Town Center in Kapaa, the brokerage firm handling leasing for the center said Monday. Pacific Business News.

Monday, April 10, 2017

Lifeguard liability, high deductibles, gay fertility treatment mulled in Legislature, pot tax axed, Kaiser Permanente seeks Maui health-care workers, Kim unveils Maun Kea park plan, historic Ewa Battlefield trashed, more news from all the Hawaiian Island

copyright 2017 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Old lifeguard stand at Richardson Ocean Park © 2017 All Hawaii News
Counties Threaten To Pull Lifeguards Over Fear Of Lawsuits. The Legislature is debating whether to extend limited liability protections for lifeguards over the objections of a group of personal injury lawyers. Civil Beat.

Pot tax, car value tax, axed. Judging from the growing list of dead or dying bills, the 2017 session of the state Legislature is shaping up to be a relatively cautious, low-risk round of lawmaking. Star-Advertiser.

Members of Hawaii’s lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community are lobbying for equal access to the fertility treatment married, heterosexual couples enjoy under state law. Associated Press.

Hawaii employers may soon be allowed to offer workers high-deductible plans that critics say are financially risky health insurance plans that can result in families paying thousands of dollars out of pocket in any given year for medical care. Star-Advertiser.

A bill granting state agents access to private property to eradicate invasive species is headed for a floor vote in the Senate. Star-Advertiser.

A bill moving through the state Legislature aims to shake loose money frozen in a $150 million failed renewable-energy loan program and use it to offer rebates of up to $10,000 to residents who buy battery systems for their homes. Star-Advertiser.

Commentary: Is it possible that this is year the Legislature does mail-in ballots, something that has nearly universal support from both voters and government officials? Star-Advertiser.

Commentary: Lt. Gov. Shan Tsutsui’s announced intention to leave his post to run for Maui mayor — possibly before his term ends — exposes a flaw in the way our state government is structured at the top. Star-Advertiser.

A new national ranking of the best-run airports has good news for Maui, bad news for Honolulu. Hawaii Public Radio.

U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, D-Hawaii, will hold town hall meetings across the state in April. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii officials are looking to their counterparts in Puerto Rico for advice as they seek to rebound from December’s aborted alala release, when three of the native Hawaiian crows perished in the first week of freedom — two apparently picked off by the io, or Hawaiian hawk, and another that weakened after getting caught in a winter storm, according to necropsies. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Below the H-1 viaduct Wednesday morning, a kiawe-fueled fire burned below thousands of commuters — a daily event that has some Oahu lawmakers concerned about the possibility of a disaster under Honolulu’s highways and bridges. Star-Advertiser.

Should Honolulu’s New Police Chief Be An Insider Or An Outsider? The police union leader is pushing for someone already in the ranks. But others, including law enforcement experts, say new blood might be the best. Civil Beat.

Honolulu's chief medical examiner is asking city officials for more financial support as his office struggles to deal with a heavy workload. Associated Press.

Passengers traveling through Honolulu International Airport these days must put up with barriers and diversions, from construction barriers to closed walkways and orange construction signs everywhere, as the state of Hawaii's $1.3 billion upgrade of the airport drags on. Pacific Business News.

Bill would limit liability for volunteers maintaining dilapidated Pearl City cemetery. KHON2.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has settled a case with the Navy involving illegal cesspools at Pearl Harbor. Star-Advertiser.

Historic Ewa Battlefield becomes target of trash dumping. KITV.

Hawaii Island

Mayor Harry Kim on Saturday continued to promote his vision of a Mauna Kea “World Park,” announcing that Gov. David Ige has lent his support to the mayor’s vision for the mountain and that he is “pursuing how this can be done.” West Hawaii Today.

A debate over how Hawaii County Council members should use their discretionary money could be renewed as Mayor Harry Kim proposes to cut the expenditures in the next budget. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County Council members say their discretionary funds provide quick aid to nonprofit groups that provide services in their districts. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County has released sewage spill data in the aftermath of last Monday’s discharge into the Wailuku River and Hilo Bay, and a state microbiologist says the results are reassuring. Tribune-Herald.

As plans to upgrade the Kealakehe Wastewater Treatment Plant continue to materialize, so to do plans to develop a large regional park in the area. West Hawaii Today.

Hawai'i State Attorney General Doug Chin got a hero's welcome to North Hawaii, where he gave a 40 minute talk on his legal efforts to block the president's executive order. Big Island Video News.

An ironweed plant that grows wild on Hawaii island may offer new ways to combat deadly brain and breast cancers, and a University of Hawaii Cancer Center biologist has received $3 million in federal funds to study it further. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

Plenty of jobs need to be filled at Maui County’s three public hospitals, and Kaiser Permanente officials are encouraging residents not to wait until the state facilities become private July 1. Maui News.

Kaiser Permanente officials are encouraging Maui residents to apply for jobs at three public hospitals on the island as they scramble to fill positions before the state facilities become private this summer. Associated Press.

While the shortage of doctors statewide has improved, it grew worse on the Neighbor Islands in 2016, including Maui County, according to a University of Hawaii report to the state Legislature. Maui News.

Alexander & Baldwin is close to formalizing a partnership with a seed oil producing company on a 250-acre demonstration project to produce biofuels from the pongamia tree on old sugar fields with planting possibly to begin in mid-May. Maui News.

The County of Maui’s Kepaniwai Park at ʻĪao reopens Monday, according to a Parks Department announcement. Maui Now.

The county’s Kepaniwai Park in Iao Valley, which has been closed since the raging Wailuku River flooded the park and tore away a piece of the parking lot Sept. 13, will reopen Monday. Maui News.

A rescue tube initiative that started on the island of Kauaʻi in 2009 is now making its way to Maui as advocates combat alarming statistics surrounding ocean deaths in island waters. Maui Now.

Kauai

A coqui frog, a little problem with loud consequences was captured at a Lihue residence Monday, most likely a stowaway in a car recently bought from Hawaii Island. Garden Island.

Friday, April 7, 2017

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

copyright All Hawaii News all rights reserved
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.

Thursday, April 6, 2017

Another $1.2B for Honolulu rail, homeless program in jeopardy, Honolulu council nixes trash fee, 20-year-old Big Island murder case solved, Aloha Stadium downsizing, Maui council seeks to save golf course, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu rail project construction, by Musashi1600 - Own work via Wikipedia
The House Finance Committee voted late Wednesday to provide an additional $1.2 billion to financially bail out the Honolulu rail project, but Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell said that won’t be enough to get the job done. Star-Advertiser.

House Panel Ponies Up Another $1.2 Billion For Honolulu Rail. It’s not as much as the city wanted, but the Finance Committee chair said it should be enough to finish construction. Civil Beat.

A state-funded program that in less than a year helped 1,515 island families stay in their homes — or get off the street and into housing — faces an uncertain future on Friday. Star-Advertiser.

When it comes to one of the most high-profile issues before the Legislature — medical aid in dying — most House members are remaining silent about their position. The House Health Committee’s deferral of the bill let other members off the hook on making their position on the issue known to the public. Civil Beat.

Native Hawaiian Culture Overcomes Incarceration. Hawaii Public Radio.

Over the past decade, the Office of Hawaiian Affairs has transferred millions of dollars of its real estate holdings, including its ownership of Waimea Valley and a poi mill on Kauai to private, nonprofit companies that it controls. But critics say those nonprofits were created to shield OHA from public scrutiny, and to conceal mismanagement. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii has the second-highest individual tax burden in the U.S., behind New York, according to a study released Wednesday by WalletHub. Star-Advertiser.

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs is condemning the Paris auction of what is being billed as the world’s largest private collection of Hawaiian art and will ask the seller to stop or delay the sale in order to negotiate a “morally appropriate resolution.” Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii workers’ use of methamphetamine dropped slightly in the first quarter, but the use of synthetic urine rose. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

The Honolulu City Council Budget Committee rejected a bill that would have created a $10-a-month fee for residential curbside trash pickup, with members suggesting they’d rather look at raising property tax rates for the bulk of Oahu’s homeowners if there’s not enough money to pay for services.  Star-Advertiser.

Oahu residents worried about Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s proposal to make them start paying for trash collection can breathe a sigh of relief. Civil Beat.

A City Council committee gave tentative approval Tuesday to pay out an additional $300,000 to three downtown law firms to represent the city Ethics Commission, its former executive director and former commission investigator in a suit filed by former Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha. Star-Advertiser.

More than 30 qualified candidates have applied to become the Honolulu Police Department’s next chief, the Honolulu Police Commission said Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Police Commission will have at least 30 candidates to choose from for the next police chief, according to Chairman Max Sword. Civil Beat.

Oahu’s solar industry continues to tank, as bills designed to help revive it move through the state Legislature. Star-Advertiser.

The development of a new, smaller stadium that seats between 30,000 and 40,000 people, which would replace Aloha Stadium, along with the 2.6 million square feet of mixed-use development of the 100-acre site of the Honolulu stadium’s surrounding property could create $1.5 billion in economic output over 25 years, according to a new report released Wednesday. Pacific Business News.

Entering its 43rd year, Aloha Stadium has, “… served its useful life and is now a liability to fan experiences, a potential danger to public health and safety and a financial burden for maintenance and operations,” a consultant’s report warns. Star-Advertiser.

Video: Aloha Stadium Conceptual Redevelopment Report Press Conference. Civil Beat.

The CEO of a nonprofit organization that supports the National Park Service’s operations in Pearl Harbor has been suspended while the group’s board investigates allegations made in an anonymous letter. Associated Press.

Builder gets extension on year-late affordable homes. Star-Advertiser.

Pacific Business News has launched Crane Watch Honolulu to keep track of all of the development and construction taking place. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

Expressing frustration with what they called a lack of communication from Mayor Harry Kim over a multimillion-dollar composting contract, members of the County Council took unanimous action Wednesday on two measures to try to keep a hand in contract negotiations. West Hawaii Today.

The state Department of Health cleared all remaining Hilo Bay beaches still affected by a sewage spill Monday to reopen Wednesday afternoon after tests showed the water to be safe to enter. Tribune-Herald.

The father of Peter “Peter Boy” Kema Jr. pleaded guilty to manslaughter and hindering prosecution in Hilo Circuit Court today, accepting a plea deal in the murder of his young son two decades ago and agreeing to reveal where the body is located. Star-Advertiser.

Peter Kema Sr. pleaded guilty today to manslaughter and first-degree hindering prosecution in the death of his son. Tribune-Herald.

In a groundbreaking development to one of Hawaii's most well-known murder cases, Peter Kema, Sr. pleaded guilty to manslaughter on Wednesday for the 1997 death of his 6-year-old son, Peter Boy. Hawaii News Now.

A planned cleanup at Old Kona Airport Beach Park later this month has been postponed because a solution on where to move the homeless currently camping in the area has not yet been reached. West Hawaii Today.

The lava ocean entry once again can be seen up close from the sea after the Coast Guard granted four tour operators access within its temporary safety zone. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

A bill proposed by the Planning Department to regulate drive-through signs in Maui County for the first time was passed out of a council committee. Maui Now.

Several Maui County Council members say they want to find ways to keep the Waiehu Municipal Golf Course open, despite Mayor Alan Arakawa’s proposal to mull over the closure of the 87-year-old course due to millions of dollars of losses in the past decade. Maui News.

Medical marijuana products could be available by July at one of Maui’s two licensed medical marijuana dispensaries, a company official said Wednesday. Maui News.

The Maui Invasive Species Committee and state Department of Health will hold a community meeting Thursday night on rising concerns over a recent outbreak of rat lungworm disease in East Maui. Maui News.

There are four confirmed cases of rat lungworm disease on Maui. KHON2.

Kauai

A day after four men were arrested for trespassing, Wainiha community members and county officials met Wednesday to discuss community safety, kuleana lands and Native Hawaiian rights. Garden Island.

The County Republican Convention for Kauai is scheduled Saturday at the Lihue United Church parish hall. Garden Island.

Talking about climate change as a way to generate awareness and solutions is the goal of a new Kauai hui, the Kauai Climate Literacy Initiative. Garden Island.