Turtle Bay to be sold, AG Chin could run for Congress, Kauai man gets one year for stabbing turtle, Honolulu rail price tag questioned, Hawaii unemployment close to all-time low, former HPD chief prepared for arrest, Maui moves to mail newspaper delivery, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Turtle Bay Resort courtesy photo

Turtle Bay Resort looks likely to be sold for $350M. A giant real estate investment firm and former owner of major Hawaii hotels has made a deal to buy Turtle Bay Resort. As part of a preservation deal, the state in 2010 paid $45 million for 53 acres fronting Kawela Bay plus an easement prohibiting development on 568 acres that includes land below and around Turtle Bay’s golf courses. Star-Advertiser.

A New York-based real estate investment firm has struck a deal to buy the Turtle Bay Resort. According to a report by Real Estate Alert, investment firm Blackstone is paying $330 million for the hotel. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii’s unemployment rate is flirting with making state history. The seasonally adjusted number dipped to 2.5 percent in September and is now one-tenth of a percentage point away from its all-time low, according to U.S. Labor Department data that go back to 1976. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate dropped to 2.5 percent in September, from 3 percent during the same month a year ago, the state Department of Labor and Industrial Relations said Thursday. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii has joined 11 other states and the District of Columbia to argue in federal appeals court that all states must be allowed to continue to impose their own customized restrictions on firearms. Star-Advertiser.

Commentary: Doug Chin Sure Sounds Like He Might Run For Congress. The AG’s dominance of the headlines may be scaring off potential candidates for outgoing Rep. Colleen Hanabusa’s seat. Civil Beat.

The highest-ranking Republican elected official in Hawaii plans to run for governor in 2018. Rep. Andria Tupola, the minority leader in the state House of Representatives, said she will make a formal announcement next month. Civil Beat.

Can School Gardens Get Kids To Eat Their Vegetables? More than 80 percent of Hawaii schools have some kind of garden, part of a booming, nationwide farm-to-school movement. Civil Beat.

More than 40 percent of Hawaii children have experienced trauma including the death, divorce or incarceration of a parent, and violence, drug abuse or mental illness in the home, a federal study shows. Star-Advertiser.

How A UH Scientist Hopes To Improve Early Kidney Disease Detection. The research is particularly vital for Hawaii, where one in seven residents have chronic kidney disease. Civil Beat.

Island Air lost the use of two of its five planes, cut its flights by more than 40 percent and placed some employees on reserve with reduced pay prior to filing for bankruptcy protection this week. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines parent Hawaiian Holdings Inc. (Nasdaq: HA) posted a 27 percent decline in profit during the third quarter of 2017 compared to last year, while revenue increased 7.1 percent to $719.6 million, according to earnings released Thursday by the Honolulu-based company. Pacific Business News.

Hawaiian Airlines achieved record revenue in the third quarter but saw its net income decline 27 percent after taking two charges totaling $50 million. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii will receive about $1.2 million as part of a $120 million nationwide settlement with General Motors over allegations the Detroit-based carmaker hid safety issues related to faulty ignition switches in its vehicles. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

A federal grand jury tasked with deciding whether criminal charges should be brought against retired Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha, wife and Deputy City Prosecutor Katherine Kealoha and other HPD officers, wound up two years of hearings Thursday, with U.S. attorneys mum about whether any indictments will be handed down. Star-Advertiser.

No Criminal Indictment Yet In Federal Police Corruption Probe. An attorney for the former Honolulu police chief and his prosecutor wife say the couple are prepared to be arrested by the FBI. Civil Beat.

After two years, the federal grand jury investigating public corruption in the Honolulu Police Department has finally wrapped up. Hawaii News Now.

Thursday is the last day for a federal grand jury that has been meeting for two years on a public corruption probe. KITV.

In its most recent report, the federal contractor overseeing Honolulu rail says it is “not confident” the project’s total construction price tag will remain at $8.2 billion.Star-Advertiser.

Ilikai Hotel workers belonging to Unite Here Local 5 walked off the job Thursday to protest high workloads, low wages and stagnant contract negotiations. Star-Advertiser.

Hotel workers at odds with management are picketing in front of the Ilikai Hotel and Luxury Suites in Waikiki. The workers walked off the job Thursday morning. KITV.

Monster homes are gobbling up communities — and it's all legal. Hawaii News Now.

Some streets in Waipahu may be getting a makeover as part of the city's effort to make them safer. Hawaii News Now.

The University of Hawaii notified students today that it has confirmed three cases of mumps on its Manoa campus. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's mumps outbreak hits 500 cases; 3 reported at UH. Hawaii News Now.

Students who only had 15 minutes to eat lunch are being given a little more time to eat. But parents say it’s still not enough. KHON2.

Animal advocates are moving out more than 90 dogs from an entrenched homeless camp under the airport viaduct that's set to swept next week. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu startup accelerator Elemental Excelerator has selected 12 startups to participate in next year’s cohort. Pacific Business News.

Reef Capital Ventures has received a $275,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce, through its Economic Development Administration’s Regional Innovation Strategies program. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

It’s back to the drawing board in the search for a mass transit administrator, after Mayor Harry Kim decided the advertised salary isn’t high enough to attract the best candidates. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County is keeping its options open as it looks for new office space in Hilo. In addition to negotiating a lease for the former Safeway space at Prince Kuhio Plaza, the county also is seeing if it’s feasible to buy a building at 1055 Kinoole St., where the Office of Aging rents space. Tribune-Herald.

The state Department of Transportation will extend four lanes on Highway 130 to Shower Drive over the next month as it restripes a 2-mile stretch of pavement. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County officials hope to heighten security with surveillance cameras at baseyards around the island in light of continued thefts. West Hawaii Today.

The Honomu Park banyan tree that fell Sunday will cost the county tens of thousands of dollars, Hawaii County’s managing director said. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii County Council adopted a resolution Wednesday urging a peaceful solution to the conflict with North Korea. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Beginning Monday, November 13, home delivery to Maui News subscribers will be via the United States Postal Service. Maui News.

Kula woman is working to help mother on Puerto Rico. Maui group collecting goods and donations to send to people trapped on island. Maui News.

Water can be a contentious subject, especially in East Maui, where streams have long been diverted for sugar. Now, a battle to restore these streams is coming to an end. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai

A 36-year-old Lihue man has been sentenced to a year in jail for attacking an endangered sea turtle on Kauai. Star-Advertiser.

Lance Kaaumoana, 36, was sentenced this week to serve one year in jail for attacking an endangered Pacific green sea turtle in April. Garden Island.

The initial investigation into the deaths of five pilot whales at Kalapaki Beach last Friday showed “no obvious cause of death.” Garden Island.

Wildlife officials are still unsure what caused seven pilot whales to beach themselves along a Kauai beach. Associated Press.

Preliminary necropsies for five whales that died in a mass stranding on Kauai last week showed "no obvious cause of death" for the animals. Hawaii News Now.

The Kauai Police Department’s Fugitive Apprehension Strike Team along with members of the state of Hawaii Sheriff Division conducted a special mission of the Kapaa area on Wednesday, which led to multiple arrests. Garden Island.

Kamalani Kai Playbridge will get sprucing up and a new name. Garden Island.

Death threats against Hawaii judge who blocked Trump travel ban, former HPD Chief Kealoha targeted in FBI probe, state socks away money for rainy day, Kauai mulls general excise tax hike, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Federal courthouse in Honolulu © 2017 All Hawaii News

Hawaii judge who blocked new Trump travel ban gets death threats. U.S. District Judge Derrick Watson has been assigned a 24-hour protection detail after receiving numerous death threats for blocking President Trump's latest travel ban. Hawaii News Now.

Watson

Hawaii state government has tucked away enough in cash reserves to weather the next “moderate” recession, according to the economic research firm Moody’s Analytics. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Superferry? Hawaii Economic Association Panel Says, "No." It’s been nearly a decade since the Superferry made its inaugural voyage to Kahului, Maui.   And, the feasibility of another interisland ferry came up during the Hawai’i Economic Association annual conference last week. Hawaii Public Radio.

Why Does This Guy Make Hawaii Sen. Brian Schatz Nervous? Barry Myers is Trump’s nominee to head NOAA but the Hawaii senator says he is “questionable choice.” Civil Beat.

Hawaii has the 27th most competitive tax code in the nation, according to the Tax Foundation’s 2018 State Business Tax Climate Index. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii’s timeshare industry contributed approximately $5.3 billion in consumer and business spending in 2016, according to a recent study conducted by Ernst & Young for the American Resort Development Association Hawaii. Pacific Business News.

Romano’s Macaroni Grill filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection Wednesday, but the Hawaii franchisee says the filing has nothing to do with the two local restaurants. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s two Romano’s Macaroni Grill franchises won’t be impacted after the national chain filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection Wednesday. West Hawaii Today.

Oahu

Search warrant executed at Kealoha homes amid corruption probe. Criminal investigators with the Federal Bureau of Investigation executed search warrants at homes belonging to former Honolulu police chief Louis Kealoha and his deputy prosecutor wife Katherine Wednesday morning, the latest turn in a years-long federal investigation into public corruption at some of the highest levels of Oahu's law enforcement. Hawaii News Now.

FBI executes search warrant of Kealohas’ home as third police officer arrested this week. Federal authorities are making their case even more clear. KHON2.

Court documents filed by federal attorneys Wednesday indicate they intend to charge retired Honolulu police Chief Louis Kealoha and his wife, city Deputy Prosecutor Katherine Kealoha, as part of their two-year-long case alleging a criminal conspiracy at the Police Department. Star-Advertiser.

Key points in criminal filings. The criminal complaint filed Wednesday against Honolulu police Lt. Derek Hahn clearly identify retired police Chief Louis Kealoha and his wife, city Deputy Prosecutor Katherine Kealoha, as alleged co-conspirators in the federal investigation into corruption within the Honolulu Police Department. Star-Advertiser.

An FBI affidavit unsealed in U.S. District Court today details how officers close to the former chief of the Honolulu Police Department allegedly conspired to frame the uncle of his wife. Star-Advertiser.

FBI Reveals New Details About The Alleged Honolulu Police Conspiracy. A police lieutenant is the latest arrest in the unfolding story of alleged corruption in the Honolulu Police Department. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Police Lt. Derek Hahn was released on a $50,000 signature bond this afternoon several hours after being arrested by FBI agents in connection with the federal investigation of retired HPD Chief Louis Kealoha and his wife, Katherine. Star-Advertiser.

The FBI arrested Honolulu police officer Derek Hahn on Wednesday in connection with an ongoing federal corruption investigation targeting Hawaii law enforcement. Civil Beat.

Police Commission Chair is optimistic HPD will have new chief by end of month. Despite Police Commission Chair Max Sword recusing himself from the selection process, he was front and center Wednesday in reassuring the media that HPD will be under the command of a new chief by the end of the month. Hawaii News Now.

Nominees to Honolulu Police Commission will not help choose new chief. Five days before the first day of interviews for the seven finalists for Honolulu Police Chief, Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell announced two nominees to fill the vacancies on Honolulu Police Commission. KITV.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell nominated Wednesday two businesspeople to serve on the Honolulu Police Commission. Karen Chang and Gerard “Jerry” Gibson were nominated to fill the vacancies left by Luella Costales and Marc Tilker. Star-Advertiser.

Caldwell Names Two New Honolulu Police Commissioners. But the two won’t be on board in time to help with the selection of a new police chief, under the current timeline. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell has nominated Jerry Gibson and Karen Chang to serve on the volunteer Honolulu Police Commission, pending confirmation by the Honolulu City Council. Pacific Business News.

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Stranded Waikiki fishing vessel raises illegal immigration concerns. Federal immigration officials are now investigating the fishing boat that ran aground with 20 people on board in Waikiki last week. Hawaii News Now.

Video: Honolulu rail cars go on test run. Local transit officials have released footage of Honolulu’s rail cars running under their own power for the first time on the elevated guideway. Star-Advertiser.

One of the city's four-car rail trains reached 40 miles per hour in a speed test Wednesday. And officials are optimistic that it will be able to soon reach its top speed. Hawaii News Now.

Another new condominium tower has opened in Kakaako as the wave of development continues to break over the urban Honolulu area. Star-Advertiser.

The Howard Hughes Corp. on Wednesday marked the completion of the 317-unit Anaha in Honolulu, its second luxury mixed-use condominium tower in the developer’s Ward Village in Kakaako, with a traditional Hawaiian blessing. Pacific Business News.

Target opened its newest Hawaii store at Ala Moana Center on Wednesday. Pacific Business News.

Honolulu-based construction company Tunista Services LLC on Wednesday received a $7.4 million contract from the U.S. Department of Defense for operations, maintenance and support services at Melrose Air Force Range in New Mexico. Pacific Business News.

Pride month hits Honolulu promoting equality, celebrating love. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

The board charged with hiring the county Human Resources director will seek applications from the public, rather than limit its search to current county employees. West Hawaii Today.

A County Council resolution wants United States leaders to use diplomacy in dealing with the crisis on the Korean Peninsula. Big Island Video News.

Airbnb use growing exponentially for Ironman. Altogether, the company reported, arrivals to the island for the weekend netted Hawaii Island hosts $584,000 — about $350 for the typical host — with hosts in West Hawaii collectively earning $483,000, or $430 for the typical host during the event. West Hawaii Today.

Five more alala were released into the wilderness near Hilo last week, joining the six young Hawaiian crows that were introduced to the forest there at the end of September. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

Former worker slaps county with $1.63M discrimination suit. Robert Straub alleges he was fired when 71 years old and replaced by ‘substantially younger person’ Maui News.

A discrimination complaint involving an alleged denial of reasonable accommodation for an employee with a disability was settled for $35,000 in July. Maui News.

Pharmlab Hawaii LLC in Kahului became the second independent laboratory in Hawaii certified to test medical marijuana produced by licensed dispensaries and is expected to begin analyzing material for content and safety by the end of the week, according to state Health Department and lab officials. Maui News.

The County of Maui Department of Finance announced it will be holding a real property tax sale on Tuesday, Nov. 14, 2017 and will continue the sale on Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2017 if necessary. Maui Now.

Kauai

At Wednesday’s county council committee meeting, members discussed the possibility of increasing the general excise tax by a half percent to provide essential funding for rebuilding infrastructure, repairing roads, reconstructing bridges and improving public transport. Garden Island.

Kauai Powerlines Are Killing 1,800 Seabirds A Year. An analysis by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service predicts that all colonies of two endangered bird species on the island could vanish as early as 2050. Civil Beat.

Shearwaters, Hawaiian Petrels could be wiped out in 30 years. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service released an analysis that estimates 1,800 endangered seabirds on Kauai are killed by collisions with power lines every year. Hawaii News Now.

Three ao released at Lydgate Park. The ‘a’o, or Newell’s shearwater perched on Hana Montgomery’s hands flew right into the sand four or five times before it took to the skies Wednesday morning. Garden Island.

A scientific analysis completed for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and obtained by the Center for Biological Diversity estimates that 1,800 endangered seabirds are killed by collisions with power lines on Kauai every year. KITV.

The U.S. Navy has scheduled a public meeting on Kauai regarding its proposal for training and testing that includes the use of sonar and explosives. Garden Island.

Hawaii judge blocks Trump travel ban; Hawaii AG sues Homeland Security, Department of Education; Honolulu police chief candidate has spotty record; Spam now under lock and key; released inmate allegedly sets fire to old Hilo jail, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hula on Honolulu palace lawn © 2017 All Hawaii News

Honolulu has been named one of the top cities in NerdWallet's new quality of life ranking. Hawaii's state capital ranked 18th out of 177 U.S. cities with a population of more than 150,000. Pacific Business News.

A federal judge in Hawaii blocked most of President Donald Trump’s latest travel ban Tuesday, just hours before it was set to take effect, saying the revised order “suffers from precisely the same maladies as its predecessor.” Associated Press.

Federal District Judge Derrick K. Watson today ordered a nationwide injunction against President Donald Trump’s third travel ban. Maui Now.

See the judge's full temporary restraining order on Trump's travel ban here.

Hawaii’s missile defense urged as North Korean threat persists. Although the United States has been stymied in reining in North Korea’s nuclear program, a former U.S. Pacific Command deputy commander said President Donald Trump’s tough words can be matched with real action by enhancing the defense of Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Months after President Donald Trump declared – by Tweet – that he would ban transgender individuals from serving in the U.S. military, Democratic-led states are joining together in opposition. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii Joins 10 States Suing Homeland Security Department. Attorney General Doug Chin joined a coalition of 10 attorneys general in suing the U.S. Department of Homeland Security today for its failure to respond to a request for information relating to the detention and deportation of immigrants. Maui Now.

Discussions underway over where Trump should stay during Oahu visit. Sources say there are discussions underway about whether to put the president up at the Marine Corps Base Hawaii or in Waikiki during his stay Nov. 3. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Is Still Falling Short In Its Inspections Of Health Care Facilities. The state has been doing better at inspecting nursing homes, but lack of staff means other inspections take a back seat. Civil Beat.

A statewide coalition of health professionals, educators, business and community representatives are teaming up to record oral health data in Hawaii. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii sues US Department of Education. Attorney General Doug Chin on Tuesday joined a coalition of 18 states led by Maryland Attorney General Brian E. Frosh and Pennsylvania Attorney General Joshua Shapiro in suing the U.S. Department of Education and Secretary Betsy DeVos for refusing to enforce the Gainful Employment Rule, a federal regulation designed to protect students from predatory for-profit schools. KITV.

The state Department of Agriculture said Tuesday it began airing three public service announcements promoting agricultural food safety in the community. Star-Advertiser.

Just days before Island Air filed for bankruptcy protection, it was in a pitched battle with the owner of three of its five planes to prevent the turboprops from being repossessed. Star-Advertiser.

After a (really dry) dry season, Hawaii's about to see a wetter, wet season. From October through April, the National Weather Service predicts more rain than what the state normally gets during Hawaii's "wet season," but it's forecast to fall mostly over windward areas. Hawaii News Now.

Wet season expected to be rainy but uneven across isles. The National Weather Serv­ice released its annual wet-season forecast Tuesday, saying an above-­average rainy season is likely for the windward areas of the islands, while signals remain cloudy as to whether leeward areas will see more rain than usual. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Finalist for police chief defends integrity after criminal trial 24 years ago. Retired federal agent Thomas Aiu is being forced to defend himself after questions have been raised regarding his testimony in a 1992 tax fraud case, United States v. Harada. Hawaii News Now.

2 tentatively agree to serve as city police commissioners. The Honolulu Police Commission could soon have a full complement of seven members again, but likely not before the panel picks a new chief. Star-Advertiser.

City officials said enforcement of a new ban on smoking in cars with keiki will begin immediately without any educational or warning period. Star-Advertiser.

Former accountant gets 20-year term for embezzlement. State sheriff deputies took the former managing partner of what was one of Hawaii’s largest accounting firms into custody today after a state judge sentenced him to prison for stealing more than $400,000 from the company. Star-Advertiser.

Patrick Oki, the former managing partner of accounting firm PKF Pacific Hawaii LLP, was sentenced to 20 years in prison on Tuesday for stealing more than $400,000 from the company. Pacific Business News.

A 45-year-old woman whose job it was to collect payment from advertisers in Hawaii Magazine, Honolulu Magazine and Hawaii Business magazine admitted Tuesday in U.S. District Court that she deposited checks worth more than $3.8 million into her own bank accounts instead of the account of her employer. Star-Advertiser.

Sacred Hearts Academy, an all-girls Catholic school in Kaimuki, has fired a teacher after two high school students reported “inappropriate behavior,” according to a letter sent to alumnae on Friday. Star-Advertiser.

Homeless accused of siphoning gas, vandalizing moving company's trucks. A moving company in Mapunapuna has become the repeated target of theft and vandalism. Hawaii News Now.

A private helicopter, which was headed to help in the search for a downed chopper off Molokai, lost power and made an emergency landing at the Waipio Soccer Complex in Central Oahu at around 1 p.m. Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Why It’s So Difficult To Clean Up This Honolulu Hoarder House. The city is seeking a court order to clean up a house where decades of piled trash have provided a haven for rats and feral cats. Civil Beat.

A Hawaii family with over 1,600 acres in the Waianae mountains is on a mission to restore the natural forest, one sapling at a time. Hawaii News Now.

Target’s seventh store in Hawaii is getting ready to welcome customers. There are high hopes for the new location at Ala Moana Center. KHON2.

Get ready — Target is about to open in Ala Moana Center. The largest Target store in Hawaii is set to open this weekend. Hawaii News Now.

Commentary: Why Spam Is Now Under Lock-And-Key At Oahu Stores. The popular canned meat is a favorite target of thieves in Honolulu, who sometimes sell the goods for quick cash to buy drugs. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

A man released from jail Monday is suspected of intentionally starting a fire at the old Hilo jail hours after his release. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County Police have more information on Monday night’s fire at the old Hilo jail, which they are investigating as a burglary and arson, and the 33-year-old male that was arrested at the scene. Big Island Video News.

The days were numbered for the old Hilo jail before a former inmate allegedly set it on fire Monday evening. Toni Schwartz, spokeswoman for the state Department of Public Safety, said the unoccupied building will be torn down next year. Tribune-Herald.

Authorities are investigating the theft of two county vehicles later found torched in South Kona. West Hawaii Today.

During a public meeting held Monday night in Keaukaha, the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands introduced beneficiaries to a new plan to Subsistence Agriculture Lots for homesteaders in Honomu. Big Island Video News.

Maui

The Army Corps of Engineers will repair nearly 4,000 linear feet of levees in Wailuku River that almost collapsed due to last year’s 100-year flood. Maui News.

The state has certified Maui’s first medical marijuana laboratory to test the purity of the drug for Hawaii’s dispensaries. Star-Advertiser.

Maui-based Pharmlabs Hawaii LLC is the state’s second laboratory to be given the greenlight to begin testing for medical cannabis, according to the Hawaii State Department of Health, which oversees the state’s medical marijuana program. Pacific Business News.

Maui Lab Gets Green Light on Medical Marijuana Testing. Pharmlab Hawaii LLC, a private independent laboratory on Maui, has been given the green light to begin testing medical cannabis from Hawaii’s licensed medical cannabis dispensaries and registered patients and caregivers. Maui Now.

Kauai

The state Department of Education reports that seven qualified school bus drivers are still needed on Kauai. Garden Island.

The state’s account of the project to rid Lehua of invasive rats will be aired on KFVE-TV (K5) in a half-hour documentary this weekend. The program was produced by the state Department of Land and Natural Resources with support from the Lehua Island Restoration Steering Committee, which represents organizations and agencies involved in the project. Garden Island.

First whale sighted off Kauai. Visitor documents first humpback sighting near Kauai. Garden Island.

Kauai police are warning the public to be aware of a financial letter scam being circulated to Kauai residents. Garden Island.

Kauai students help release 3 shearwaters into the wild. Keiki from Kauai's Island School released three Newell Shearwaters into the wild at the shore near Lydgate Park Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

Molokai

Flight instructor, student missing after helicopter goes down off Molokai. The U.S. Coast Guard and the Maui County Fire Department continued to search for two people today from a helicopter that went down Monday night off the northwest coast of Molokai.  Star-Advertiser.

Still no sign of 2 on board downed chopper near Molokai. Rescue crews continued their search Tuesday for a downed chopper near Molokai by air and sea, but the whereabouts of the two on board remain unknown. Hawaii News Now.

The National Transportation Safety Board released their final accident report of a Cessna that went down near Molokai in December 2016 with three friends on board. Hawaii News Now.


Lanai
 The Lanai Landfill will close early, at 1 p.m., today through Saturday because of insufficient staffing, the county Department of Environmental Management’s Solid Waste Division announced. Maui News.

Felonies charged in FBI probe of Honolulu police, no source determined in Marco Polo condo fire, helicopter crashes off Molokai, Navy says sonar didn't cause whale beaching, Oahu prepares for Trump visit, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu Police file photo, courtesy HPD

A current police officer and a retired police major were both released from federal custody on $50,000 signature bonds Monday, a day after they were arrested in connection with a public corruption case tied to the investigation of the alleged theft of retired Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha’s mailbox. Star-Advertiser.

Two Honolulu police officers have been charged with felonies in connection with the ongoing federal corruption investigation into the Honolulu Police Department, its former chief and his deputy prosecutor wife. Civil Beat.

A Honolulu police officer and a retired major are among those who participated in framing a man for stealing a mailbox from the home of the department's former chief, federal prosecutors said Monday. Associated Press.

Unpaid leave for officer charged in mailbox case. Associated Press.

A Honolulu police officer and retired major appeared in court Monday after being charged as part of the years-long federal investigation into public corruption at some of the highest levels of Oahu's law enforcement. Hawaii News Now.

Attorneys claim arrests made to compel cooperation in alleged corruption investigation. A retired Honolulu police major and current officer are out on bond after being arrested as part of an alleged corruption investigation involving Honolulu’s former chief of police. KHON2.

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President Donald Trump’s first official trip to Hawaii and Asia will include a stop at Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial, the White House said Monday. Star-Advertiser.

Pro-Rail Groups Spent $200K On Special Session Lobbying Blitz. Most of the money came from developers, laborers and contractors with a stake in the Honolulu rail project. Civil Beat.

Astronomy’s ‘discovery of the century’ helps explain ‘cosmic bling’. Confirmation of the collision, the first ever detected kilonova, was announced Monday following a blitz of science throughout two months. Tribune-Herald.

Researchers from the University of Hawaii were part of a major scientific discovery, after they were able to confirm the observation of a binary neutron star merger and resulting kilonova explosion. Pacific Business News.

Pan-STARRS Observatory captures cosmic event. On the evening of Aug. 17, astronomers atop Haleakala were preparing to train the world’s largest digital camera onto a spot in the sky where, hours earlier, teams on the U.S. Mainland and in Chile had detected strange bursts of energy. Maui News.

'An example of aloha': Akaka reflects on his legacy, retirement and staying active. Surrounded by family and friends, former U.S. Sen. Dan Akaka last month celebrated his 93rd birthday at Chef Chai. Hawaii News Now.

Island Air, which brought in a new fleet of larger aircraft this year amid its aggressive expansion strategy, filed Monday for Chapter 11 reorganization bankruptcy. Star-Advertiser.

Island Air announced Monday it is filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. KHON2.

Honolulu-based Island Air said Monday it is filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection to continue normal operations while dealing with legal challenges recently presented by the airline’s aircraft lessors. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Investigators have been unable to determine the cause of the Marco Polo condominium complex fire, city officials announced today, more than three months after the July 14 blaze, which left four people dead and caused more than $100 million in damage. Star-Advertiser.

Three months after a fire swept through the upper floors of the landmark Marco Polo condominium in Moiliili, killing four people and causing more than $100 million in damage, city officials still cannot say precisely what caused the largest structural fire in Honolulu history. Civil Beat.

Fire investigators have not been able to determine the source of the deadly Marco Polo fire. Hawaii Public Radio.

After an exhaustive analysis, the mayor says the cause of the massive, Marco Polo blaze continues to elude investigators.  Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell and Fire Chief Manuel Neves say the cause of a deadly, seven-alarm fire at the Marco Polo high-rise building could not be determined. KHON2.

The cause of the 7-alarm fire at the Marco Polo is still unknown following a three-month investigation. Pacific Business News.

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Questions Surface Over Integrity Of HPD Chief Candidate. A well-known former Hawaii judge is raising a red flag about Honolulu police chief finalist Tommy Aiu. But no one will talk about what’s behind it. Civil Beat.

At least 180 squatters living under Nimitz viaduct prepare to move out. More than a dozen outreach workers canvassed the area beneath the Nimitz viaduct Monday morning alerting squatters to an upcoming sweep. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Police are increasing patrols in Waikiki after a recent string of crimes in the area. KITV.

A former high-ranking FBI official in Honolulu is under fire after a local nonprofit accused him of stealing more than $33,000. Hawaii News Now.

Weather delays salvage efforts for grounded fishing vessel in Waikiki. The Coast Guard made another attempt Monday to remove a fishing vessel that's been stuck in shallow waters off Waikiki for about a week, but salvage efforts will be delayed again. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Economic Association Panel: International Cargo Ships Too Big for Honolulu Harbor. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaiian Airlines has finished tens of millions of dollars in fixes to “defects, deficiencies and incompletions” in a new maintenance and cargo hangar at the Daniel K. Ino­uye International Airport in Honolulu, and its chief executive officer, Mark Dunkerley, is calling for a state investigation to determine how the long-delayed project got so far off track. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric Cos. said Monday that the typical HECO bill in October for an Oahu household using 500 kilowatt-hours was $139.91, or 25.9 cents a kilowatt-hour, up 17 cents from $139.74 in September when the effective rate was also 25.9 cents a kilowatt-hour. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii County’s Camp Kikaha was offered as an example of a successful homeless safe zone at a meeting in Honolulu last week of a state panel charged with studying the concept. The camp is the only government-sanctioned temporary homeless neighborhood in Hawaii. West Hawaii Today.

An individual at Chiefess Kapiolani Elementary School in Hilo has been infected with the mumps virus, the school confirmed in a letter Monday. Forty-two documented mumps cases in Hawaii County have been confirmed since Thursday. Tribune-Herald.

A fire at the old Hilo jail building at the corner of Waianuenue Avenue and Komohana Street was extinguished Monday evening and one man was arrested, according to the Hawaii Department of Public Safety. Big Island Video News.

Big Island Drug Court graduates 13. The drug court program continues to increase the number of graduates since its inception in 2011. West Hawaii Today.

Five captive-reared alala, or Hawaiian crow, were released into the wild last week, part of conservationists’ second attempt in the past year to replenish the population of the critically endangered bird in its native habitat. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Eleven East Maui residents have filed a petition to intervene in the Nahiku Community Center project, which currently is undergoing permit and land use change reviews by the Maui Planning Commission. Maui News.

Kauai

Navy rules out sonar use as cause of mass whale stranding on Kauai. In a statement, the Navy confirmed it does not have any reports of any sonar use within five nautical miles or 24 hours of Friday's incident that left five whales dead at Kalapaki Beach. Hawaii News Now.

A conservation official says Hawaii's plan to eradicate a small crescent-shaped island's rat infestation via air drops of poison has worked, with no signs of negative impact on marine life. Associated Press.

The County of Kauai has scheduled an eight-hour water shutdown for customers in the Kalepa Village Apartments on Kalepa Circle and Kale Place in Hanamaulu on Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., weather permitting. Garden Island.

Molokai

The Coast Guard is continuing to search for two people from a downed helicopter off of Molokai. Star-Advertiser.

Rescue crews continue searching for missing helicopter off Molokai. Hawaii News Now.

Pearl Harbor warships drill with South Korea, North Korea threat not scaring Hawaii tourists, Trump to visit Hawaii, FBI makes first arrests in Honolulu Police probe, gubernatorial candidates gather endorsements, chicks and not rats on Lehua, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Beached pilot whales on Kauai PC:DLNR

No additional pilot whales beached at Kalapaki Beach Friday night or Saturday, reported the Department of Land and Natural Resources. Garden Island.

Five pilot whales died after several beached themselves Friday morning at Kalapaki Bay. A strong volunteer response to push them back to deep water may have saved others. Garden Island.

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A sizable number of Pearl Harbor warships will be heading to the Western Pacific or are already in the region that’s being bulked up with Navy firepower amid an ongoing showdown with North Korea. Star-Advertiser.

South Korean and U.S. troops began five days of naval drills on Monday after North Korea renewed its threat to fire missiles near the American territory of Guam. Associated Press.

North Korea Nuclear Threat: Viral Headlines Aren’t Scaring Hawaii Visitors Away. But a defense industry lobbyist wonders if Hawaii is waiting too long to raise the alarm. Civil Beat.

President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump are scheduled to stop in Hawaii during an upcoming trip to Asia in November. Hawaii News Now.

President Trump will travel to Japan, the Republic of Korea, China, Vietnam, the Philippines, and Hawaii, from November 3-14. KHON2.

Council resolution to Trump, Kim seeks peace with North Korea. All they are saying is give peace a chance. West Hawaii Today.

Commentary: Hawaii’s preparation for possibility of North Korea nuclear bomb is MADness. Star-Advertiser.

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Hawaii’s elder statesmen are choosing sides in what is shaping up as a hard-fought gubernatorial primary next year between Gov. David Ige and U.S. Rep. Colleen Hana­busa, and those early endorsements seem to signal a splintered Democratic party. Star-Advertiser.

‘Aging in place’ facilities trigger debate. Over the past two years, dozens of unlicensed residential facilities offering elder care have opened in neighborhoods around Hawaii, embracing a new model that its proponents herald as safe, effective and the wave of the future. Star-Advertiser.

New HMSA rules cut back women’s cancer screenings. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines, which has survived two bankruptcies during its 88 years of operation, caught the investment public by surprise Friday when it announced plans to offer its first-ever dividend. Star-Advertiser.

A group of former Hawaii residents who now make their homes in Las Vegas on Saturday joined others who still live in the islands to bring the city’s people a special lei braided with leaves from a plant they consider sacred in a gesture they hope will bring peace and healing after the deadliest mass shooting in modern U.S. history. Associated Press.

Commentary: Big Questions About Hawaiian ‘Princess’ Coverage. Is the media telling you the real story of Abigail Kawananakoa or a fawning fairy tale? Civil Beat.

Oahu

The FBI has arrested a Honolulu Police Department officer and a retired HPD major who have connections to a federal probe surrounding retired Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha, his wife, Deputy Prosecutor Katherine Kealoha, and other officers. Star-Advertiser.

A Honolulu police officer and retired major were arrested by the FBI on Sunday in relation to an ongoing federal corruption investigation into Hawaii law enforcement. Civil Beat.

A Honolulu Police officer and former Honolulu Police major have been arrested in the much anticipated federal investigation into public corruption at some of the highest levels of law enforcement. Hawaii News Now.

A retired Honolulu police major and a current Honolulu Police Department officer are in federal custody. KHON2.

The FBI on Sunday arrested one current and one former police officer in connection to a probe into the Honolulu Police Department. Associated Press.

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Honolulu police to increase presence in Waikiki. While crimes against visitors reported to the Visitor Aloha Society of Hawaii fell 6 percent during the first nine months of the year from the same period in 2016, some violent categories — including assaults and robberies — rose. Star-Advertiser.

A multimillion-dollar cleanup aims to address health and safety concerns under the Nimitz Highway viaduct. KHON2.

Three dead shearwaters were found at a Windward Oahu beach on Sunday. Hawaii News Now.

Waikiki eatery Herringbone is cleared to reopen. At least 45 people became ill after dining at a popular Waikiki restaurant at the International Market Place, state Department of Health officials said Friday. Star-Advertiser.

An affiliate of developer Coastal Rim Properties opened applications for 77 affordable studio units at The Block 803 Waimanu on Sunday, while 10 market-rate units in the Honolulu condominium project also went on the market for sale. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

The state Board of Land and Natural Resources on Friday approved a management right of entry for Hawaii County onto a parcel of land known as Village 9, which Mayor Harry Kim plans to use first as a temporary homeless camp before developing it into a long-term housing site replete with social services for Kona’s homeless population. West Hawaii Today.

The Board of Land and Natural Resources on Friday dismissed a proposed $10,000 fine against Sean “Peaman” Pagett, whom the department said was in violation of state rules for races he hosted in Kailua Bay. West Hawaii Today.

The Board of Land and Natural Resources voted to dismiss the fine against Kona resident Sean Pagett, who was in hot water for organizing alleged "unpermitted fitness swimming events in Kailua Bay." Big Island Video News.

The state Land Board has dismissed a $10,000 fine against Peaman Biathlon promoter Sean Pagett. Former Big Island Mayor Billy Kenoi testified on Pagett's behalf as his lawyer. Hawaii News Now.

A problematic banyan tree that was recently trimmed next to Honomu Park fell over Sunday morning, covering the road, engulfing a vehicle, and knocking out power for 286 HELCO customers. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Maui Mayor In Political Hot Water Over Money To Nonprofits. The state’s campaign finance watchdog says Mayor Alan Arakawa gave thousands of dollars to nonprofits in violation of state law. Civil Beat.

Normal school bus service has been restored to two previously consolidated routes that were disrupted earlier this year when bus routes were suspended because of a shortage of drivers with commercial driver’s licenses, the state Department of Education reported Friday. Maui News.

Contrary to rumblings in the community, Maui County itself is not moving to privatize its swimming pools or charge for their use, a county spokesman said Thursday. Maui News.

Sea turtle biologist Cheryl King has been hired to direct the Turtle Island Restoration Network’s Hawaii program, the marine conservation organization announced. Maui News.

Maui condominium sales and prices surged in September as homebuyers pursued more affordable housing options. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

Some of Kauai’s homeless are finding homes. Kauai Economic Opportunity has successfully repatriated four homeless individuals to their family on the Mainland and is working on returning two more. Garden Island.

Rat-less? Lehua update: No rats, plenty chicks. Not a single live rat has been reported on Lehua since the rat eradication project’s three aerial applications of rat poison in August and September. Garden Island.

State mulls homeless problem, Kakaako park suffers $500K damage, Maui mayor's wife drawn into campaign spending investigation, DOT Director Director Fuchigami moved to Governor's Office, raises coming to Hawaii County officials, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Homeless igloo demonstration in Hilo ©2017 All Hawaii News

A legislative working group tasked with recommending possible sites for “safe zones” for homeless encampments on state land in Honolulu will expand its search islandwide — and potentially statewide — after ruling out a few vacant parcels in the city’s urban core. Star-Advertiser.

A growing number of state and county officials are talking about safe zones, designated areas where homeless people could camp legally. Civil Beat.

Just days after closing Kakaako Waterfront Park indefinitely, state crews are assessing the damage left by homeless campers. And they say it's worse than they expected. Hawaii News Now.

Officials show off park damage blamed on homeless campers. Repairs to dozens of broken fixtures and other vandalism throughout Kakaako Waterfront, Gateway and Kewalo Basin parks will total an estimated $500,000. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Community Development Authority's decision to close Kakaako Waterfront Park to the public has frustrated park users. On Thursday, HCDA took local media on a tour of the state park to point out why the closure was necessary. The state agency manages the park and said illegal campers racked up at least $500K in hazardous damage. KITV.

Prescribing Hope: A small Hawaii team is helping the hardest to house. There are more than 200 homeless people who suffer from severe mental illness on Oahu. They are among the hardest to help off the streets. But the state’s only psychiatric street medicine team, launched in January, is seeing successes with these seemingly impossible cases. Hawaii News Now.

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State Transportation Director Ford Fuchigami will leave his job for the new post of administrative director for Gov. David Ige beginning Nov. 1, the governor’s office announced Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. David Ige has hired Department of Transportation Director Ford Fuchigami as his administrative director. Civil Beat.

The state is hosting a Telehealth Summit this week with the goal of developing statewide coverage. Telehealth connects a patient and a doctor using computer technology through the internet. Hawaii Public Radio.

The U.S. military’s love-hate relationship with China was recently on display with the Pearl Harbor destroyer USS Chafee at the center of it all. Star-Advertiser.

There’s space for Southwest at isle airports, state says. A state Department of Transportation official said Thursday the previous day’s announcement that Southwest would begin selling tickets to Hawaii next year “is already generating tremendous excitement." Star-Advertiser.

Glenn Hong, head of Young Brothers Ltd., the state’s largest interisland cargo carrier, is leaving the position to join parent company Saltchuk on Jan. 1. Star-Advertiser.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has established a hotline accessible from any island to take reports of Hawaiian monk seals, sea turtles, dolphins and whales in need of emergency assistance. The 24-hour number is (888) 256-9840. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Contractors continued work Thursday to safely remove fuel and other pollutants from a grounded 79-foot fishing vessel off Kaimana Beach in Waikiki — and the Coast Guard aims to have the entire craft removed from the area today. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu police teamed with Hawaii Pacific University Thursday night to spread the message of safety. KHON2.

A popular new Waikiki restaurant in the International Market Place voluntarily closed today due to suspected norovirus, Department of Health spokeswoman Janice Okubo said. Star-Advertiser.

The popular Waikiki eatery Herringbone shuttered its doors on Thursday after several diners reported falling ill after having patronized the restaurant. Hawaii News Now.

The second Hawaii Embassy Suites by Hilton, hotel which opened three weeks ago, aims to accommodate business travelers and individuals looking for another lodging option in Kapolei. Pacific Business News.

Commentary: Why Is It So Hard To Find Police Commissioners? The Caldwell administration says people are turning down the offer but some commissioners say the mayor isn’t willing to fully open the selection process. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Raises are coming to top county officials, but exactly how much was a topic of some debate at a Salary Commission meeting Wednesday. West Hawaii Today.

Students and faculty are protesting the prospect of cuts to the University of Hawaii at Hilo’s performing arts and humanities programs, which they say includes a proposal to eliminate the campus’ popular jazz orchestra. Tribune-Herald.

Despite a heavy downpour, more than 300 people came out Thursday for the Puna Kai shopping center groundbreaking in Pahoa. Tribune-Herald.

Bongs And Bare Breasts Outnumber Cellphones At This Beach. A drum circle is only one of the Sunday attractions at a Big Island beach where millennials and ageless hippies mingle. Civil Beat.

Maui

A Campaign Spending Commission complaint against Mayor Alan Arakawa alleges that his wife, Ann Arakawa, contacted nonprofit and community groups to get them not to cooperate with the commission’s two-year investigation into the mayor’s campaign expenditures from Nov. 5, 2014, to Dec. 31, 2016. Maui News.

Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa is accused of breaking campaign spending laws by misrepresenting more than $6,000 in advertisements that his campaign bought. Associated Press.

Maui Electric proposed a 9.3% increase in base rates, or $30 million, to help pay for operating costs, including system upgrades to increase reliability, integrate more renewable energy, and improve customer service. Maui Now.

Maui Electric Co. is proposing a 9.3 percent increase to its base power rates — its first such increase in nearly six years — to help pay for operating costs, including system upgrades to increase reliability, integrate more renewable energy and improve customer service, the utility announced. Maui News.

The State Commission on Water Resource Management heard final arguments on a petition to establish minimum flow standards for more than 20 streams diverted by Alexander & Baldwin subsidiary East Maui Irrigation. Maui Now.

Kauai

A sewage spill released about 50,000 gallons of wastewater in an unoccupied area off Keoniana Road on Wednesday, and some could have gotten to the shoreline. Garden Island.

DMK & Associates LLC will resume roadwork in the Ulu Mahi Subdivision from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on weekdays, from Oct. 16 through Nov. 17. Garden Island.

Back to nature. Huleia refuge tour one of many events during National Wildlife Refuge Week. Garden Island.

Lanai

The Lanai Landfill will be closed at 1 p.m. today and Saturday because of insufficient staffing, the Department of Environmental Management’s Solid Waste Division said. Maui News.

Hawaii climate change report discussed, more than 3k students homeless, pidgin in schools, Campaign Spending Commission investigates Maui mayor, Honolulu council passes smoking ban, Ironman clogs Kona roads, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Queen Liliuokalani Gardens flooding PC: K.T. Cannon-Eger

Draft Hawaii Sea Level Rise Report Briefed. The State’s Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission conducted its first meeting today and received a briefing on a draft sea level rise report. Hawaii Public Radio.

More than 3,000 public school students in Hawaii reported that they were homeless at the start of the 2017 school year, new state figures show. Hawaii News Now.

Pidgin Belongs In Hawaii Schools, Educators Say. The language that emerged from Hawaii’s blending of cultures “is something we have to embrace,” says a high school principal. Civil Beat.

Pidgin English could be used someday in the classroom. KITV.

OHA trustees eliminate 'middle man' charged with managing school funds. The Council for Native Advancement would have received $136,000 per year for the two-year contract to manage the school grants. Hawaii News Now.

How Hawaii Fits Into The Changing World Of Seed Corn Production. A UH researcher lays out the history of the seed corn industry in Hawaii. Civil Beat.

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Southwest confirms it plans flights to Hawaii — and maybe interisland. Southwest President Tom Nealon and Gov. David Ige made the joint announcement late Wednesday afternoon via satellite from Waikiki Beach behind the Royal Hawaiian Resort to an estimated 10,000 Southwest employees at a company party at Universal Studios in Los Angeles. Star-Advertiser.

Southwest Airlines announced Wednesday that it will enter the Hawaii market with ticket sales beginning in 2018. Pacific Business News.

Southwest Airlines finally ended years of speculation, promising low fares for its new service to Hawaii. The company made the official announcement to thousands of employees first during a gathering in Los Angeles. Hawaii News Now.

Southwest Airlines announced Wednesday it will begin service in Hawaii. KITV.

Southwest Airlines announced Wednesday it plans to begin selling tickets in 2018 for service to Hawaii. KHON2.

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August broke a string of big reductions in new foreclosure lawsuits filed in Hawaii during the first seven months of this year. Statistics from the state Judiciary show that lenders and other creditors initiated 111 foreclosure cases in August, or 3 percent more than the 108 cases filed in the same month last year. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Three bills that would dramatically expand Honolulu’s ban on sitting or lying down on public sidewalks passed their first hurdle at a City Council meeting Wednesday, but not without criticism from testifiers who argued the measures criminalize people without homes. Civil Beat.

A city crew from the Department of Facility Maintenance accompanied by police arrived Wednesday morning in Kakaako, where for a second day they cleared tents and tarps on the Ewa end of Ilalo Street near the University of Hawaii John A. Burns School of Medicine. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell is expected to sign a bill approved by the Honolulu City Council making it illegal on Oahu to smoke in automobiles when children are present. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council passed Bill 70 in a unanimous vote Wednesday, which would make it illegal to smoke in a vehicle with someone under 18 inside. KHON2.

Bills that would allow a nonprofit to set up parking fees, oversee freight and passenger deliveries, and make other traffic rules in Waikiki won final passage from the Honolulu City Council on Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council is looking at ways to pay back organic farmers and eco-friendly eateries through two bills that would provide tax incentives to certified businesses. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu City Clerk Wants Big Increase In The Price Of Voter Data. A new measure would also dramatically raise the price for certifying documents and providing proof of voter registration. Civil Beat.

The U.S. Coast Guard rescued 19 foreign fishermen and their American captain from a 79-foot U.S.-flagged commercial fishing vessel that ran aground off Waikiki on Tuesday night. Associated Press.

No lights means no pool for Waialua High swim team. Hawaii News Now.

The head of Hawaii Pacific University maintains the school is in solid financial shape despite concerns raised about the tens of millions of dollars the private college borrowed to redevelop Aloha Tower Marketplace amid declining student enrollment. Star-Advertiser.

Jack in the Box has purchased the land beneath one of its leasehold stores in Honolulu from an entity owned by the daughter of the late Hawaii U.S. Sen. Hiram Fong. Pacific Business News.

Sanjiv Hulugalle is leaving his position as general manager of the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina to take on a leadership role with The Resort Group, master developer of Ko Olina Resort. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii County Civil Defense is working on emergency response protocols in the unlikely event of a nuclear attack, although details are scarce at the moment. Big Island Video News.

Repair work underway at Akaka Falls State Park, which will be closed Oct. 16-20. Tribune-Herald.

Akaka Falls trail to close for repairs totaling almost $300K. Hawaii News Now.

The Board of Land and Natural Resources on Friday will consider a request to set aside more than 35 acres of state land in Kealakehe for the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corp. for the purpose of “affordable housing and related purposes.” West Hawaii Today.

Papaikou Democrat Heather Kimball plans to challenge state Sen. Lorraine Inouye for the District 4 seat representing Waikoloa, Waimea, Kohala, Hamakua and parts of Hilo and Kona. West Hawaii Today.

Flags were flying high on Alii Drive Tuesday afternoon as athletes from around the globe came out for the Ironman Parade of Nations in some wet weather. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

A two-year Campaign Spending Commission investigation of post-election expenditures reported by Maui County Mayor Alan Arakawa’s campaign from Nov. 5, 2014, to Dec. 31, 2016, found 59 “advertising” expenditures to 41 nonprofit and community organizations amounting to more than $47,000. Maui News.

Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa went before the state Campaign Spending Commission Wednesday to vigorously defend himself against allegations he broke campaign spending laws. Hawaii News Now.

The first annual review of the performance of county Liquor Control Director Glenn Mukai — who has drawn heavy criticism from residents and community groups for actions by his department — is set for the Liquor Control Commission’s next meeting on Nov. 8, commissioners said. Maui News.

A new grocery delivery service will launch for Central and South Maui residents on Thursday, Oct. 12, that will provide everyday essentials and groceries right to their door in as little as one hour. Maui Now.

Three Maui restaurants were among the top 25 restaurants in the nation honored with TripAdvisor's 2017 Traveler’s Choice awards for the best fine dining in the United States. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

County seeks homeless solutions. The County Housing Agency reported there are a minimum of 412 homeless individuals living on the island, with 115 of them sheltered. Garden Island.

The potential relocation of the Rice Street post office to the carrier annex by the airport is still up in the air. Garden Island.