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.

Hawaii not as tolerant as believed, nuclear attack email sends UH into tizzy, state again fights Trump travel ban, Honolulu Police Commission chairman recused from chief vote, $316.5M Saddle Road completion celebrated, first whale of season spotted off Maui, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waiting for the bus in Honolulu © 2017 All Hawaii News

After decades of tracking socioeconomic and educational statistics and trends, a UH Manoa professor charges that people in Hawaii appear to be quite tolerant of ethnic inequality.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Lawyers representing Hawaii asked a judge Tuesday to stop the Trump administration from enforcing the latest version of its travel ban. Associated Press.

The state of Hawaii asked U.S. District Court Judge Derrick Watson on Tuesday to block the Trump administration from enforcing the third version of its travel ban, saying it “replicates all of the legal flaws evident in its precursors.” Civil Beat.

Gov. David Ige says a U.S. senator who has been questioning Hawaii’s Medicaid spending under Obamacare is using a “flawed analysis” and has his facts all wrong. Star-Advertiser.

A University of Hawaii email that went out Monday with the subject line, “In the event of a nuclear attack,” generated international media attention and an apology from a school spokesman today. Star-Advertiser.

A University of Hawaii spokesman is apologizing for “needless attention” from an email sent to faculty, staff and students systemwide Monday with the subject line, “In the event of a nuclear attack.” Tribune-Herald.

As N. Korea threat spurs disaster planning, schools and others discuss the unthinkable. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority is giving more than $3.5 million to 124 Hawaii programs that perpetuate Hawaiian culture, protect natural resources and showcase community events in 2018. Pacific Business News.

The Last Hawaiian Princess? At 91, Abigail Kawananakoa has been a significant benefactor of Native Hawaiian culture and causes throughout a life of privilege and drama. But controversy still haunts her. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Honolulu Police Commission Chairman Max Sword announced this afternoon that he will recuse himself from the search for a new police chief. Star-Advertiser.

The announcement Tuesday by Honolulu Police Commission Chairman Max Sword that he is recusing himself from the selection process for a new police chief, due to a conflict of interest, means all four other sitting commission members will need to agree on who should lead the Honolulu Police Department. Star-Advertiser.

The chairman of the Honolulu Police Commission has recused himself from the selection process for the new police chief. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Police Commission Chairman Max Sword announced he will recuse himself from the police chief vetting and selection process. KITV.

The chairman of the Honolulu Police Commission is recusing himself from all proceedings relating to the search for Honolulu’s new chief of police. KHON2.

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Crews rescued 20 fishermen from a boat that ran aground off Kaimana Beach late Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

Twenty fishermen were rescued and transported to shore from their boat that grounded about half a mile off Waikiki early Wednesday morning. KHON2.

Food inspections among new security measures at Honolulu airport. KHON2.

Councilman: Contraflow Lane Is Doing More Harm Than Good. Honolulu should stop prohibiting so many left turns during the afternoon rush hour, says Trevor Ozawa. Civil Beat.

Homeless cleared from Kakaako sidewalks. More than a dozen homeless people broke down their tents and tarps on Ohe and Olomehani streets after the crew from the Department of Facility Maintenance, accompanied by police, arrived Tuesday morning near the Hawaii Children’s Discovery Center. Star-Advertiser.

Surfers balk at state's closure of popular Kakaako parks. The Kakaako homeless sweeps are creating an unexpected conflict on the waterfront, pitting the state’s duty to ensure public safety in its parks with the public’s right to access the shoreline. Hawaii News Now.

A multi-million dollar upgrade is in the works for historic Haleiwa. During a meeting Tuesday, residents weighed in on the city's long-awaited plan to add walkways and other improvements to the town's commercial hub. Hawaii News Now.

Over a year since the state learned of toxic conditions under a Kalihi road, crews are finally addressing the problem. Hawaii News Now.

The main driver’s license center at Kapalama Hale will start opening Saturday mornings to handle a surge in the number of renewals. Star-Advertiser.

Hadley Properties, the Seattle-based owner of the leasehold Airport Industrial Park near Honolulu International Airport, has secured $165 million to refinance the 1.3 million-square-foot mixed-use complex that is home to the headquarters of Hawaiian Airlines. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

The late Sen. Daniel Inouye’s vision fulfilled; Officials, community celebrate completion of Saddle Road project. The project culminates years of improvements to the cross-island highway that have spanned 48 miles and cost $316.5 million. West Hawaii Today.

A crowd of dignitaries and project officials gathered under a big white tent placed in the middle of an empty Saddle Road on Tuesday morning to dedicate newly finished east-side leg of the cross island highway. Big Island Video News.

A portable fiberglass shelter on the County of Hawaii lawn, 25 Aupuni St. in Hilo, is on loan from the First Assembly of God in Moanalua on Oahu after a Wednesday faith-based homelessness summit. Tribune-Herald.

The same group that has been caring for the public land area at the Waipio Lookout has again come before the Hawaii County Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission in the hopes of continuing their work. Big Island Video News.

A local entrepreneur is leading the charge in making Hawaii Island the site for an international MoonBase prototype a reality. West Hawaii Today.

Celestial honor: Asteroid named after county traffic engineer. Tribune-Herald.

Big Island real estate sales this year have outstripped last year’s sales figures as the final quarter of 2017 begins. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Group calls for restoration of water to streams. State water panel heard arguments to return to East Maui streams water diverted over decades for sugar. Maui News.

Pacific Whale Foundation had their first humpback whale sighting of the season this morning, Oct. 10, 2017, at 9:32 a.m. off the coast of Kapalua in West Maui. Maui Now.

Some priceless Niihau shell lei return home. Police theft investigation is ongoing. Maui News.

Kauai

A little, cracked boat has washed up near Anini Beach and the life on it could be some of the more than 50 alien species landing on Kauai shores from the 2011 Japan tsunami. Garden Island.

Four adult nene have been killed by cars in the span of four days this month along Kilauea Road. Garden Island.

The Club at Kukuiula has named Nicholas Gold as general manager of the Kauai luxury real estate community. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii infrastructure worst in nation, Maui water rights stir controversy, DOE ups teacher requirements, Kakakaako homeless moved from park to sidewalks, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Saddle Road construction work © 2017 All Hawaii News

Shoddy and unsafe conditions plaguing the state’s roads, bridges and dams helped earn Hawaii the dubious distinction of having the worst infrastructure in the country, according to a new report. Star-Advertiser.

As boats and other debris from continue to wash up on Hawaii's shores after the 2011 Tsunami in Japan, it's bringing some unexpected visitors. According to a study in "Science Magazine," nearly 70 different species made its way to the islands. KITV.

Hawaii farmers raising plants for landscaping had a good year in 2016 and led the state’s flower and plant nursery industry in a sales rebound, according to a new report. Star-Advertiser.

In an effort to staff classrooms with more qualified teachers, the Hawaii Department of Education will include only certified instructors when it reports the number of teacher positions filled to the state Board of Education at the start of each school year. Civil Beat.

Two pottery pieces labeled “Atomic Ware” were delivered to Japan last week. The unique artifacts were found during a garage sale in Hawaii Kai. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

State sweeps homeless from Kakaako parks. State sheriffs were stationed at entry points at Kakaako Waterfront Park early today after the state closed the park indefinitely for safety reasons. Star-Advertiser.

Within 12 hours of Kakaako Waterfront park closing indefinitely, the sidewalks surrounding the nearby Children's Discovery Center were overrun with tents. Hawaii News Now.

Three parks in Kakaako are now closed indefinitely for major maintenance and improvements: Kakaako Waterfront, Gateway, and Kewalo Basin parks. KHON2.

Commentary: Give Us Back Our Parks. Gov. David Ige says he hopes to create a new sheriff’s division to consistently enforce trespass laws while helping link people to social services. Civil Beat.

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Mayor Kirk Caldwell said Monday that Police Commission Chairman Max Sword should recuse himself from deciding who will be Honolulu’s next police chief. Star-Advertiser.

A new proposal before the Honolulu City Council would offer a tax break to ocean-friendly restaurants using compostable takeout containers. KHON2.

New Airport Shuttle Service Won’t Deliver On Promises, Suit Claims. Robert’s of Hawaii submitted a winning proposal calling for a fleet of new buses and islandwide service. Civil Beat.

City facing a shortage of lifeguards for pools. Honolulu is looking for more part-time, contract lifeguards to fill various hours at its 21 pools throughout Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu’s second marijuana dispensary, Noa Botanicals, will open Wednesday at the former Krazy Karaoke building at 1308 Young St. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu-based Noa Botanicals will begin selling medical marijuana products on Wednesday after being cleared by the Hawaii State Department of Health. Pacific Business News.

Seminars touting vacation rentals draw protests. A flyer advertising three 90-minute seminars called “Make Money With Airbnb” recently went out to thousands of Oahu homes. Run by Lindon, Utah-based Response LLC, whose registered agent is Response Marketing Group LLC, the event promised that participants would learn how to build wealth by cashing in on the Airbnb craze. Star-Advertiser.

Biki, Honolulu’s first bike-share program, said it logged 180,272 rides during the three-month period between June and September in its first release of quarterly data Monday. Star-Advertiser.

Nearly a thousand people form different groups turned up to the 33rd annual Pacific Rim International Conference on disability and diversity at the Modern Honolulu and Hilton Hawaiian Village this week. KITV.

Hawaii Island

A long awaited widening and realignment project on Daniel K. Inouye Highway, also known as Saddle Road, is complete. State and government officials are hosting a dedication ceremony today to celebrate the opening of the final phase of reconstruction on the east side of the highway. Tribune-Herald.

Consultants examine Hawaii County’s utility model. West Hawaii Today.

Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Commissioners got an earful from a handful of testifiers over the plan to provide grant funding to groups interested in stewarding Kawa. Big Island Video News.

University of Hawaii at Hilo researchers have shown they can decrease the birth rate of rats. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii to Be Site of First Moon Base Prototype. The International MoonBase Summit was held from Oct. 1 to 5, on Hawaii Island, where global industry leaders, representatives from academia, government leaders and representatives from the student community worked together collaboratively to lay the groundwork for the world’s first permanent human settlement on the moon. Maui Now.

The state Land Board is scheduled to decide Friday whether Sean Pagett should pay a $10,000 fine for holding two “Peaman” biathlons without marine ocean water event permits. West Hawaii Today.

With the Ironman World Championship days away, the Hawaii Police Department is preaching the importance of individual safety plans in light of a fatal mass shooting that occurred just over a week ago in Las Vegas. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Tempers flared in the latest chapter of the long-standing battle over Maui water rights. Dozens of people crowded into the Haiku Community Center for final arguments in the contested case hearing before the State Commission on Water Resource Management on Monday night. Hawaii News Now.

A new $12 million two-story classroom building at Lahainaluna High School is expected to be ready for the 2020-21 school year, according to a draft environmental impact statement for the project. Maui News.

Maui will soon join the ranks of U.S. cities being served by a major online-based grocery delivery service. Maui News.

Kauai

Areas that are normally off-limits to the public within the Kauai National Wildlife Refuge Complex will be open for tours starting today, in celebration of National Wildlife Refuge Week. Garden Island.

The Rats Of Lehua Appear To Have Taken The Bait. Rats appear to be gone from the island after officials dropped poison bait in an effort to help bird populations that had been threatened. Civil Beat.

Drag queen pageant fights back after hotel tries to cancel event. A Kauai hotel is being accused of discrimination for allegedly trying to cancel a pageant for drag queens. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu, Monsanto, spar over land preservation; Legislature asked to comply with Sunshine Law; mixed reviews for Maui hospital transition; no sheriffs for Big Island evictions; overfishing on Molokai, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Monsanto Hawaii  Facebook photo

A city agency focused its effort to preserve prime farmland on Oahu earlier this year, but one large landowner, Monsanto, doesn’t like the plan and wants to preserve less of its land than the city recommends. Star-Advertiser.

Unhappiness with the recent special session to bail out the Honolulu rail project has prompted all three neighbor island county councils to advance resolutions urging the Hawaii Legislature to finally comply with the state’s Sunshine Law. Star-Advertiser.

Frustrated by a deal state lawmakers struck behind closed doors to bail out the Honolulu rail project, all three neighbor island county councils are urging the Legislature to follow Hawaii’s open meeting laws. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii County Council is poised to become the third in the state to send a resolution to the Legislature, asking that body to comply with the state Sunshine Laws governing open meetings. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii County Council wants state lawmakers to be more transparent. Big Island Video News.

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A federal judge on Friday said he would give Hawaii an opportunity to make its case that it should be allowed to challenge the Trump administration’s latest travel ban. Associated Press.

Hawaii is one of the worst places to pay taxes in the U.S., according to Kiplinger’s 2017 Tax Map. Pacific Business News.

The Hawaii State Energy Office will host a series of community meetings across the state next week to solicit community input for a study being done on future models for utility ownership and regulation in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii State Energy Office on Thursday said it will host a series of community meetings next week to gather public input for a study about future utility ownership models and regulatory approaches. Pacific Business News.

The U.S. Department of Energy on Friday said two Hawaii businesses will receive close $1.5 million in federal funding to develop offshore seaweed as a potential clean energy source. Pacific Business News.


Pearl Harbor shipyard is Navy’s most backlogged. The Navy’s four public shipyards, including Pearl Harbor, whose oldest dry dock was built in 1919, are in poor condition, contributing to inefficiency that is robbing the Navy of ship and submarine time at sea, according to a government report. Star-Advertiser.

The Pentagon agency that recovers missing American war dead made a record 201 individual identifications during fiscal 2017, meeting for the first time a benchmark set by Congress in 2010, officials said. Star-Advertiser.

The former executive director of the Democratic Party of Hawaii, Flo Kong Kee, has died. Hawaii News Now.


Hawaii officials are grappling with how to control rats, snails and slugs that are known to carry roundworm parasites, which can cause significant harm to people. Associated Press.

Commentary: Little medical scrutiny in medical pot screenings. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Acting Police Chief Cary Okimoto announced Friday that he will retire at the end of the month, capping a 33-year career at the Honolulu Police Department. Civil Beat.

Farming and suburban living often peacefully coexist in Hawaii. But in Royal Kunia, residents are clashing with recent buyers of vacant land behind roughly 300 homes where a golf course was once planned. Star-Advertiser.

Structures once intended for survivors of the Japan tsunami are now providing relief for homeless families in Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

Urban Honolulu's largest park closed Sunday night following safety concerns and a growing number of illegal homeless campers. Hawaii News Now.

A Honolulu councilman is proposing a measure that would create a special fund to attract developers to build along the rail. KHON2.

Home sales on Oahu soared in September on slight price gains, compared to the same month last year, while the median price of a condominium jumped 11 percent to tie with the record set over the summer, according to statistics released Friday by the Honolulu Board of Realtors. Pacific Business News.

Dead honu entangled in fishing line found in Kailua. Hawaii News Now.

Hundreds celebrate life of entertainer Roland Cazimero. Star-Advertiser.


Hawaii Island

An internal review of the eviction process for the sheriff’s division on Hawaii Island has led to benching deputies from assisting in evictions. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County is seeking permission to repair Ahalanui Beach Park infrastructure in Puna. Tribune-Herald.

Being priced out of paradise is one reason island residents find themselves houseless. Big Island Video News.

A key component in the plan for the future Village 9 homeless shelter in Kealakehe is set to be decided this week. Big Island Video News.

Room to romp: With fundraising goal reached, community to reconstruct Anuenue Playground. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County Council members unanimously adopted a resolution Friday to refer to county planning commissions a bill to protect dune areas with potentially culturally sensitive sites from sand mining other than for on-site construction. Maui News.

At 100 days: Hospital transition has some hiccups. Island physicians give mixed reviews for Maui Health System’s first three months. Maui News.

Piilani Highway’s closure over three weeks next summer for bridge repairs is not sitting well with East Maui residents who rely on the road to get to medical appointments and do grocery shopping in Central Maui. Maui News.

The Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center, which has been closed since May 2014 due to issues with environmental controls in the building, will be reopening Tuesday, just in time for National Wildlife Refuge Week. Maui News.

Kauai

Film to be made on Kauai gets funding. Kauai-made film will feature local actors. Garden Island.

The Lihue Business Association’s 11th annual meeting is set for Oct. 26 at Duke’s Canoe Club in Kalapaki, from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. Hawaii Gov. David Ige will be the keynote speaker. Garden Island.

KCC program offers healthcare skills. Community Health Workers program helps students, island. Garden Island.

Molokai

Study: Overfishing has less impact on Molokai. Maui News.

Snorkeling dangers, Hawaii attorney general seeks to challenge latest Trump travel ban, UH auditor recommends tighter travel policies, Hawaii County demonstrates igloos for homeless, Queens becomes state's first Level 1 trauma center, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Snorkel selfie © 2017 All Hawaii News

Snorkeling is the most deadly ocean activity in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

The state of Hawaii will seek permission Friday in U.S. District Court in Honolulu to file an amended complaint to challenge the legality of President Donald Trump’s latest travel ban. Star-Advertiser.

The State of Hawaii is challenging the third and latest version of President Trump's travel ban Thursday. KITV.

Two sub-hunting and surveillance Navy jet planes have reached Hawaii with a mission of protecting the isles. Associated Press.

The University of Hawaii’s internal auditor is recommending the university tighten its travel policies after reviewing more than $13 million UH spent on travel last year, covering travel and advances for some 8,500 authorized trips mostly for university employees. Star-Advertiser.

Fewer students enrolled in Hawaii colleges this year, but for those attending, the rate of graduation increased. University of Hawaii campuses have made strides over the last decade to improve graduation rates. Garden Island.

The biggest challenge ahead for Hawaii's new head of public schools could be conflicts over how to handle special education. Hawaii News Now.

More homes were bought on Hawaii Island and Kauai in September compared with the same month last year, according to industry data released Thursday that also showed more divergence in median prices. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu Police Commission Chairman Max Sword is asking the city Ethics Commission whether he should recuse himself from at least part of the police chief selection process because one of the finalists is his wife’s relative. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Officials To The Homeless: Go Away. An islandwide ban on sitting or lying on public sidewalks is among a slew of new bills aimed at moving homeless people out of public places. Civil Beat.

The Queen's Medical Center said Thursday it received the verification as the first and only Level I Trauma Center in Hawaii and the Pacific. Pacific Business News.

Scientists, educators, and space explorers all converged on the Hawaii Convention Center on Thursday. And their conversation focused on, among other things, the educational possibilities of the Thirty Meter Telescope slated for Mauna Kea. Hawaii News Now.

A female Hawaiian monk seal paid a visit to the shores of Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve early this morning, which was a rare occurrence, according to state officials. Star-Advertiser.

Retail market on the rise as vacancy rates decline. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

The county is looking to rent the former Safeway space at Prince Kuhio Plaza, despite some concerns about occupying one of only a few large empty retail spaces in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

“Igloo” Style Shelter For Homeless Demonstrated In Hilo. Big Island Video News.

Although two of West Hawaii’s five failed water wells have been repaired and emergency water use restrictions have been lifted for North Kona customers, county council members still want to audit the Department of Water Supply. Big Island Video News.

Emergency remodel: Revamped department at Kohala Hospital already making a difference. West Hawaii Today.

Some parents on the Big Island say their kids are being rushed to eat school lunch. KHON2.

A group of divers is trying to save  tiger shark  — estimated at about 12 feet long and weighing about 1,000 pounds — that has a rope taut around it, into a gill and the bottom of the animal’s fatty area.. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The Hawaii Public Utilities Commission has proposed scaling back sewer rate increases sought by Hawaii Water Service Co. for nearly a thousand customers that include Pukalani residents, businesses, community facilities and schools. Maui News.

Wearing a hard hat, a bright orange safety vest and dark sunglasses, Gov. David Ige inspected the work in progress at Kahului Airport’s $340 million consolidated rental car facility Thursday afternoon as sky-high cranes hoisted construction materials in place and workers prepared forms and rebars for concrete pours. Maui News.

Kauai

Council member Derek Kawakami is taking his vision for Kauai to the next level and is throwing his hat in the running for Kauai County Mayor in the 2018 election. Garden Island.

The Kauai Police Department is reminding residents and businesses to register or renew their alarm systems in order to comply with the Kauai County Code. Garden Island.

House majority leader ousted over rail vote, tour helicopter foes sue FAA, public supports retired major for Honolulu police chief, Singapore routes coming, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Rep. Cindy Evans with late Hilo powerbroker George Yokoyama © 2017 All Hawaii News

House Majority Leader Cindy Evans is being removed from her leadership post after voting against the bailout bill for the Honolulu rail project last month. Star-Advertiser.

Rep. Cindy Evans stepped down as House majority leader in the wake of a tense special session putting the state on the hook for Honolulu’s troubled $9 billion rail project. West Hawaii Today.

UH video seeks to reassure international students concerned over travel bans. The video posted on the UH website is part of the #YouAre WelcomeHere campaign underway at more than 300 colleges and universities. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric Cos. has launched a new online tool for customers that is expected to streamline the application process for the installation of private rooftop solar systems. Civil Beat.

Hawaii is back on Singapore’s radar for the first time in 25 years. Scoot, the low-cost, long-haul subsidiary of the Singapore Airlines Group, said Tuesday it plans to fly to Hono­lulu at the end of this year to mark its first foray into the United States. Star-Advertiser.

Asian low-cost airline Scoot said Tuesday it will launch a new service to Hawaii later this year. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

If the selection of a Honolulu police chief were a popularity contest, retired HPD Maj. Kurt Kendro would have won the job on Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Public Input Favors Retired HPD Major’s Candidacy To Be Police Chief. But it’s unclear how much impact the spoken and written support for Kurt Kendro will play in the selection process. Civil Beat.

Overwhelming support for one of seven finalists up for the job of Honolulu Police Chief at the police commission meeting Wednesday afternoon. KITV.

Overtime Costs Keep Going Up For Honolulu City Government. The expense of paying workers time and a half increased 30 percent in the last five years, reaching $67 million in fiscal year 2017. Civil Beat.

It remains to be seen if the latest move in the years-long battle to permanently dismantle homeless encampments in Kakaako by shutting down the waterfront park and others nearby for safety reasons will rid the area of one of Oahu’s most intractable homeless populations. Star-Advertiser.

Attorneys: Hawaiian royalty descendant Abigail Kawananakoa's wife took some of $200M fortune. In court papers filed last week, attorney James Wright said Veronica Gail Worth, who married Kawananakoa on Sunday, took $65,000 “without permission” to pay for her own legal bills. Hawaii News Now.

Proposal aims to stop illegal ‘apartment homes’ by adding caps, requirements. KHON2.

New hillside developments triggering rockfall fears in Palolo. KITV.

State lawmakers want answers from the Honolulu Police Department as to why it allowed a rave party to continue for more than two hours, even after officers responded to the scene. KHON2.

A Navy maritime patrol presence that extends back to the 1920s on Oahu is continuing — albeit in reduced capacity — with the arrival of two P-8A Poseidon jets whose job includes a Hawaii homeland defense mission. Star-Advertiser.

State business regulators are alleging that local developer Lawrence “Larry” Stogdell bilked investors in a planned downtown Kapolei retail and office building. Star-Advertiser.

Manoa Valley will be the first community to receive free ohia trees by the hundreds. Hawaii News Now.

Nonprofit Bikeshare Hawaii, which manages Honolulu's bikeshare program, Biki, named five members to its board of directors on Tuesday. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii residents and an organization representing federal workers sued the Federal Aviation Administration Wednesday to force it to do something about tour helicopters buzzing their communities and national parks around the U.S. Associated Press.

U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz wants the Federal Aviation Administration to meet with Hawaii residents frustrated by tour helicopter noise. Tribune-Herald.

A small but vocal group of commercial fishermen from West Hawaii voiced their opinions Wednesday night on a proposed amendment to Hawaii Administrative Rules that would hike the annual fee for commercial fishing licenses from $50 to $150, while requiring fishermen to provide more extensive reporting on marine life. West Hawaii Today.

The Ka’u Community Development Plan was approved by the Hawaii County Council on final reading Wednesday. Big Island Video News.

The former county finance director is about to take the helm of the department once again. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Per direction by the state Legislature, hearings on future electric utility ownership models for each island in Maui County will be held Monday to Wednesday on each island. Maui News.

Another old Maui business has left the scene with the sale of the century-old Ah Fook’s Supermarket in the Kahului Shopping Center. Maui News.

A former Baldwin High School teacher is facing charges alleging he sexually molested a student. Maui News.

Kauai

Of the more than 100 people who attended the Kauai County Council’s General Plan Update hearing Wednesday, it was the voices of Kauai’s youth that echoed throughout the Kauai War Memorial Convention Hall. Garden Island.

In an effort to curb truancies on Kauai, the Truancy Court Collaboration pilot project has been created to improve student attendance and family engagement. Garden Island.