Monday, June 4, 2018

Lava continues toward Big Island neighborhood, volcano spawns earthquakes, ethics complaint filed in Honolulu City Council race, 2014 GMO controversy ignites Maui political races, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

PC: Kai Kahele
Lava fountain Sunday night PC: Kai Kahele
VIDEO: Lava flow from helicopter Sunday night. By Sen. Kai Kahele.

Growth in tourism is affecting Hawaii residents’ quality of life. The unprecedented arrivals growth means that about 1 in every 8 people statewide are now visitors. On Oahu more than 1 in 10 people are tourists and on Hawaii island it’s about 1 in 7. On Kauai and Maui, more than 1 in four people are visitors. Star-Advertiser.

Isle bankruptcies keep rising despite economic growth. Statewide filings in May soared 10.5 percent to mark the fourth time in five months they have exceeded the previous year’s total, according to data released Friday by the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, District of Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Here’s How Much Hawaii CEOs Make Compared To Their Employees. The gap between CEO pay and the median salaries of their employees for Hawaii’s publicly-traded companies is narrower than nationwide. Civil Beat.

Lobbying On Both Sides Of Medical Aid In Dying Bill Cost More Than $34K. Opponents spent nearly twice on lobbying and public relations as much as supporters in a failed attempt to derail the measure, according to state reports. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Honolulu City Councilman Trevor Ozawa has filed an ethics complaint alleging that one of Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s appointees used city resources to give Ozawa’s political rival a boost in the upcoming election. Star-Advertiser.

Proposed revisions to rules governing nearshore water events off city parks — anxiously awaited and debated in recent months by the North Shore community, surf meet organizers and the surfing public — were released Saturday by the Honolulu Department of Parks and Recreation. Star-Advertiser.

The city will be hosting a meeting in early July to discuss changes to permitting rules for surf and shore water events on Oahu. Hawaii News Now.

Some grave-site space opens at Punchbowl. Star-Advertiser.

Rents for two-bedroom apartments in Honolulu have significantly declined over the past year, but still rank among the highest in the nation, according to two new reports from Apartment List and Zumper. Pacific Business News.

Accidentally removed crosswalk in Hawaii Kai raises safety concerns. KHON2.

HPD: Suspect lunged at police with a large knife moments before deadly shooting. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

The leading edge of flow front is nearing the ocean as it moves through Kapoho on Sunday evening. Big Island Video News.

Lava is advancing along a half-mile-wide front toward the ocean at Kapoho Bay between Kapoho Beach Road and Kapoho Kai Drive, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. Star-Advertiser.

Hundreds of homes in peril as Kilauea lava flow nears Kapoho Beach Lots, Vacationland. A wide lava flow fanned out Sunday over farm lots as it edged closer to Kapoho Bay and threatened to bury hundreds of homes in Vacationland and Kapoho Beach Lots. Tribune-Herald.

Lava Traveling Through Kapoho Beach Lots, Moving Towards Ocean. Hawaii Public Radio.

A helicopter crew saved three Puna residents from the ravages of Kilauea on Sunday, hours before a magnitude-5.5 earthquake below the volcano’s summit sent an ash plume 8,000 feet skyward. Star-Advertiser.

Evacuation order came suddenly for Kapoho residents. Star-Advertiser.

Mandatory Evacuations Strain Residents and Responders. Hawaii Public Radio.

Three people trapped by lava from the isolated areas of Kapoho and Vacationland in lower Puna were airlifted out by county rescuers. Hawaii News Now.

The vent inside Halemaumau Crater is blocked with debris, preventing more large ash plumes for the time being. Kyle Anderson, a geophysicist with the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, said it’s not known if this spells the end for the summit eruption or could lead to another explosion. Tribune-Herald.

Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement officers cited an additional eight people Saturday for loitering in a disaster area. Tribune-Herald.

Department of Land and Natural Resources enforcement officers cited seven people Friday for violating area restrictions in order to get close-up views of lava flows in Lower Puna. Star-Advertiser.

Big Island man arrested after going around a road block, crashing truck in cooled lava. Hawaii News Now.

Residents affected by lava flow grateful for Hawaii National Guard. KHON2.

Record number of earthquakes recorded at Kilauea summit. More than 500 earthquakes were reported at the summit of Kilauea volcano in a 24-hour period ending at 11 a.m. today, according to a Hawaiian Volcano Observatory seismologist. Tribune-Herald.

There is NO tsunami threat to Hawaii after a 5.5 (preliminary magnitude 5.8) earthquake reported at 3:51 p.m. on Sunday, June 3, 2018, in the summit region of the Kilauea volcano, according to the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center. Maui Now.

Lava flows reignite debate over safety and future of Puna Geothermal Venture facility. Star-Advertiser.

Forestry managers on Hawaii island report one-third to one-half of the total acreage of the Malama Ki Forest Reserve has been impacted by the month-long East Rift Zone volcanic eruption. KITV.

Norwegian Cruise Lines suspends Hawaii Island ports indefinitely. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

A political movement born in the 2014 genetically modified organism moratorium vote has been gathering strength of late, inspiring a new group of candidates to run for elected office and perhaps upset the status quo in Maui County politics. Maui News.

Candidates file nomination papers. Maui News.

For the first time since deploying NARCAN kits to their front-line officers, the Maui Police Department recorded its first documented use of the kit in the field by one of its officers. Maui Now.

Fish stocks could increase by 250 percent on Maui and 350 percent on Molokai if fishing were not allowed in certain areas of the islands, according to a recently released study. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai Fire Department Chief Robert Westerman, 62, will hang up his hat and hose at the end of the year. Garden Island.

Kilauea resident Adam Roversi, 49, a deputy county attorney for the County of Kauai in the office’s litigation division, has filed to run for the County Council. Garden Island.

Learn about the impact cesspools are having on drinking water and sensitive surface waters at a Hawaii State Department of Health meeting scheduled for Aug. 1, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Kapaa Neighborhood Center. Garden Island.

Friday, June 1, 2018

Lava's effect on tourism, state auditor says rail agency interfering with audit, anti-Hee signs crop up in governor's race, volcano emergency costs pile up, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

photo by Andrew Richard Hara
Lava closes roadway PC: Andrew Richard Hara
Hawaii’s booming tourism market continued in April despite record rainfall that caused massive flooding midmonth on Kauai. Star-Advertiser.

University of Hawaii economists are taking a wait-and-see approach before projecting the potential impact on tourism that the natural disasters had on Hawaii island and Kauai. Star-Advertiser.

Anti-Clayton Hee signs taken down. Police took down two dozen banners and plastic signs which were posted on overpasses and city poles because they were illegally posted on public property. KHON2.

Group Ratchets Up Attack On Clayton Hee With Street Signs. A political action committee posts more than 100 signs linking the gubernatorial candidate to domestic violence — something he denies. Civil Beat.

Candidate for governor responds to signs that accuse him of domestic violence. Hawaii News Now.

Google said 5,300 Hawaii businesses generated $171 million in economic activity through the use of Google search and advertising tools, according to a new report by the Mountain View, Calif.-based tech giant. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

State Auditor Says Rail Agency Is Interfering With His Work. Les Kondo says HART’s insistence on recording auditor interviews with staff members “is akin to management sitting in.” Civil Beat.

A sophisticated radar to track North Korean missiles and better protect Hawaii might join the Kaena Point satellite tracking facility atop Kuaokala Ridge, whose antenna domes are a mountaintop landmark. Star-Advertiser.

Members Of Military Might Get A Property Tax Break. The Hawaii National Guard Enlisted Association helped Councilman Ernie Martin craft a bill to give military homeowners a $120,000 exemption. Civil Beat.

The city has ordered a builder of monster homes to stop work on 17 projects throughout Oahu. Hawaii News Now.

A major construction industry organization speaks out Thursday against a contractor without a license who it says it building "monster homes." KITV.

Without emergency funds, aging Aloha Stadium could be forced to consider closing areas of the facility in the event of additional deterioration in the future, the Stadium Authority was told Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

The Army and Hawaiian Electric Co. held a dedication Thursday to mark the completion of a new Schofield generating station that will strengthen Oahu’s electrical grid and pave the way for more renewables. Star-Advertiser.

A new power plant is expected to save $4M, and thousands of barrels of oil. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Evacuees face tough road ahead as 'staggering' costs of eruption mount. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii County is warning the dwindling number of people living closest to lava flows and fountains in the Leilani Estates subdivision that they are now subject to arrest if they remain after about noon today. Star-Advertiser.

Lower Leilani Estates holdouts given deadline to leave or possibly face arrest. Mayor Harry Kim issued the mandatory evacuation order Thursday for the area east of Pomaikai Street in the subdivision, much of which has been devastated by lava during the past month. Tribune-Herald.

Mandatory Evacuation Order Signed For Leilani Estates, East Of Pomaikai. Big Island Video News.

Mayor Kim Signs Mandatory Evacuation Order. Hawaii Public Radio.

A mandatory evacuation order has been issued for the lava-ravaged Leilani Estates subdivision, where eruptions that started four weeks ago are more vigorous than ever. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii mayor issues mandatory evacuation order, strict curfew for Leilani Estates. KHON2.

Mayor Signs Second Supplementary Emergency Proclamation. Big Island Video News.

It’s not official yet, but U.S. Geological Survey scientists are seriously debating whether the Leilani Estates eruption that began May 3 should be declared a “new” eruption that is distinct from the Puu Oo eruption on the flank of Kilauea Volcano, which began in 1983. Star-Advertiser.

Suspect Arrested After Shooting In Volcano Evacuation Zone. A resident allegedly fired shots after confronting people he apparently thought were trespassing, authorities say. Associated Press.

Man Charged in Leilani Estates Shooting Incident. Maui Now.

The gun-toting man accused of shooting at a lava evacuee during a heated confrontation captured on video was charged Thursday with multiple counts of reckless endangering and terroristic threatening. Hawaii News Now.

A 38-year-old California man was cited for using a drone near the eruption in lower Puna. Tribune-Herald.

The eastern side of Hawaii island has been a pyrotechnic spectacle for almost four weeks, producing fountains of lava and sky-high blasts of pulverized rock that have had devastating effects in the immediate area. But a community about 25 miles away is also suffering from the fallout. Star-Advertiser.

Fissure No. 8 in Leilani Estates continued to dominate the lower Puna eruption Thursday as it shot lava up to 260 feet into the air, creating a fountain of molten rock seen for miles. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Has 5 Other Active Volcanoes In Addition To Kilauea. Here’s a quick look at the islands’ active and inactive volcanoes. Associated Press.

Maui

The next step in the government review process for the Waikapu Country Town project will be Tuesday before the Urban Design Review Board. Maui News.

Maui High day care program squeezed out for lack of space. Teen parenting program will continue to be taught. Maui News.


Kauai

Visitors continued to come to Kauai and spend lots of money in the month of April. Garden Island.

A former Kauai police officer has been found guilty on cyberstalking charges according to the State Department of the Attorney General. Hawaii News Now.

A former police officer has been found guilty of using Kauai Police Department’s computer surveillance system to watch a co-worker while she arrived for work. KHON2.

The Lihue Kmart only has about four months left before it closes for good, according to a Thursday decision by owner Sears Holdings Corporation. Garden Island.

New Kauai shopping center constructed with recycled shipping containers. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island is wrapped in a veil of vog and covered in layers of Pele’s hair, but more than 300 miles away Kauai isn’t seeing a real uptick of any volcano-related health issues. Garden Island.

Molokai

A 25-year battle for water on Molokai continues today before the Hawaii Supreme Court.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Thursday, May 31, 2018

Prepping for RimPac, lava forces more evacuations, election signup deadline nears, $220M Honolulu airport addition planned, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

The Air Times Network http://www.airtimes.my/2018/05/25/kapal-tldm-mulakan-pelayaran-ke-hawaii-untuk-rimpac-2018/
Leaving Rumut, Malaysia, for RimPac. The Air Times Network
The Navy said Wednesday that 26 nations, 47 surface ships, five submarines and more than 200 aircraft and 25,000 personnel will participate in this summer’s big Rim of the Pacific exercises June 27 to Aug. 2, mainly in in Hawaii but also in Southern California. Star-Advertiser.

U.S. Pacific Command, the oldest and largest of the military’s major commands, officially received a name change Wednesday, reflecting evolving priorities, including a “great power” competition with China. Star-Advertiser.

Pentagon Salutes US-India Ties With Pacific Command Name Change. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis announces the change at Pearl Harbor as he welcomes a new commander. Civil Beat.

Kauai Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. announced on Wednesday that he officially submitted his nomination for the Lt. Governor seat. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Is Short On Poll Workers As The Primary Approaches. The state is trying to fill almost 3,000 one-day positions for the Aug. 11 primary, and it’s only about halfway there. Star-Advertiser.

The deadline to file nomination papers to appear on the 2018 Election ballot is Tuesday, June 5, 2018 at 4:30 p.m. Maui Now.

Hawaii tour company to pay $570k to settle sexual harassment suit. KHON2.

State takes first step toward lucrative hemp industry with new research program. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Winner Of Governor’s Race Will Have Stronger Hand In Rail Project. Colleen Hanabusa and David Ige have played varying roles in moving the project forward, while Clayton Hee wants to curtail construction. Civil Beat.

Ex-police chief, wife plead not guilty to financial, obstruction charges. Former Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha and his deputy prosecutor wife pleaded not guilty in court Wednesday to financial and obstruction charges. Hawaii News Now.

New Indictment Against Kealohas Focuses on Bank Fraud, Identify Theft. Defense attorneys had wrongly hoped federal prosecutors were dropping conspiracy charges involving an alleged mailbox theft. Civil Beat.

The state Department of Transportation broke ground Wednesday on a $220 million, two-level Mauka Concourse at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport to begin the next phase of Hawaii’s airport modernization plan. Star-Advertiser


$220M Airport Modernization Project Launched. The next phase of the long-awaited airport modernization project was launched on Oahu today. Star-Advertiser.

First look at new Mauka Concourse at Daniel K. Inouye Airport in Honolulu.  KHON

State officials celebrated the groundbreaking of the Mauka Concourse on Wednesday morning, marking a new step in a series of renovations at the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. Hawaii News Now.

The new operator of the Kuhio Beach concession stands that provide surf lessons, board rentals, umbrellas, chairs and canoe rides has encountered resistance from opponents since opening Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Japanese clothing retailer Uniqlo said it is looking to hire up to 200 workers for its new store at Ala Moana Center, slated to open this fall. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

State Rep. Joy San Buenaventura said she believes Gov. David Ige can make it easier for Lower Puna residents displaced by the Kilauea eruption to find emergency housing by issuing two executive orders and allowing “ohana zones.” Star-Advertiser.

Mayor Harry Kim signed a second supplementary emergency proclamation on Thursday due to to the ongoing Kilauea eruption. West Hawaii Today.

Mayor Kim Announces Change in Emergency Procedure. Big Island Now.

A shortage of rental housing in East Hawaii has become part of the ongoing crisis caused by the lava from Kilauea volcano, which has destroyed homes and forced hundreds of lower Puna residents to evacuate. Tribune-Herald.

Police launched a dramatic house-to-house evacuation of the Vacationland and Kapoho Beach Lots subdivisions in Puna early Wednesday morning as fast-moving lava threatened the last route out for residents of those communities, but the flow slowed later in the day without blocking the coastal highway. Star-Advertiser

Nearly four weeks after eruptions started in lower Puna, lava has wiped out at least 75 homes, active flows continue to cover major thoroughfares and threaten properties, and the volcanic activity still shows no signs of stopping. Hawaii News Now.

The Latest: Kilauea Eruption Update. KITV.

Lava Speeds Up And Forces More Evacuations As Despair Grows. More refugees are likely headed for the Pahoa Community Center, where hundreds already reside. Some have been there for weeks. Civil Beat.

Kapoho area under evacuation, lava approaching Beach Road. KHON2.

Bulldozers began digging their way through lava rock on Chain of Craters Road on Wednesday as molten rock continued to threaten the “Four Corners” area in Kapoho. Tribune-Herald.

Goodfellow Bros. Inc. began work on Wednesday to clear nearly a mile of solidified lava to prepare an evacuation route through Hawaii Volcanoes National Park in the event the only highway leading from the coast is cut off by the latest eruption of Kilauea volcano. Pacific Business News.

The Pride of America canceled its Wednesday visit to Kailua-Kona. West Hawaii Today.

Despite vog, half-Ironman race on Kohala Coast will go ahead. Star-Advertiser.

Explosive eruptions at Halemaumau Crater have overwhelmed Ka'u neighborhoods on the Big Island for weeks, and residents in the area say more needs to be done to inform them about how the emissions are affecting them. Hawaii News Now.

Lava scientists’ drone guides lost resident through jungle. Star-Advertiser.

Stranded Leilani Estates Man Instructed to “Follow the Drone to Safety”. Maui Now.

An eleventh-hour escape from a lava-doomed home was more sedate than might be expected, recounted a Leilani Estates resident who was rescued by emergency responders Sunday night. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Council gives final approval to fiscal 2019 county budget. The Maui County Council approved a $758.3 million county budget for fiscal 2019 on Tuesday. Maui News.

Maui Professor Selected for 2018 Omidyar Fellows Program. Maui Now.

Kauai

North Shore seeks balance between locals, tourists. Residents on Kauai’s North Shore don’t want life to go back to the way it was before the April floods. Garden Island.

Kauai County rolls out updates on transportation, garbage collection for residents affected by severe flooding. Hawaii News Now.

Tiny homes tucked into backyards of existing houses could be the answer to Hawaii’s housing crisis. Garden Island.

Wednesday, May 30, 2018

Gawkers cited as lava marches on, defense secretary warns China to halt military buildup, Ige signs gay 'conversion therapy' ban, flood money for Kauai, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy of USGS
Lava fountains PC:USGS See 'Hawaii Island' category for full volcano update
Gov. David Ige signed SB270 into law, which prohibits therapists from offering “sexual orientation change efforts” or “conversion therapy” to patients under the age of 18. Maui Now.

The U.S. will continue to confront China’s militarization of manmade islands in the South China Sea, Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said today in Honolulu, arguing that Beijing hasn’t abided by its promise not to put weapons on the Spratly Islands. Associated Press.

Defense Secretary Mattis arrives in Honolulu for change at U.S. Pacific Command. Hawaii News Now.

SHOPO has endorsed Ernie Martin in the Democratic primary race for Hawaii's 1st Congressional District. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiian Airlines is debuting nonstop daily service starting Thursday between Daniel K. Inouye International Airport and Long Beach Airport. Star-Advertiser.

AirAsia to increase flight frequency from Honolulu to Malaysia via Japan. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

A 200-year-old carving of the war god Ku has returned home to Hawaii after spending untold years abroad and in the hands of private collectors. Associated Press.

The State Department of Health is fining the developer of the exclusive Olomana Heights project in Kailua $28,000 over allegations of illegal storm water discharges. Hawaii News Now.

The University of Hawaii at Manoa announced today that it ranked 306 out of 18,000 universities worldwide in the 2018–19 Center for World University Rankings, the largest academic ranking of global universities. Star-Advertiser.

The University of Hawaii at Manoa is now ranked within the top 1.7% of universities worldwide according to the latest academic ranking of global universities. Maui Now.

A long-lost World War II aviator soon will be going back to his family for burial after his remains were recovered in 2016 from mountainous terrain near Kahuku Point, and he was positively identified. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Lava Crosses Highway 132, Destroys 400 Utility Poles. Power to some areas has been knocked out for the foreseeable future. Associated Press.

Lava from fissure 8 severs Highway 132, knocks out power, further isolates lower Puna. Tribune-Herald.

On a day when new Hawaii island communities lost a major highway, electricity and cell service because of expanding lava flows, Mayor Harry Kim told a gathering that included many of those affected that they will get through this ordeal. Star-Advertiser.

Eruption Meeting – Mayor Harry Kim. The mayor said a restricted area will be established in sections of Leilani Estates. No one will be allowed in, according to a new policy. Big Island Video News.

Puna residents air concerns over housing, overnight curfews amid ongoing eruptions. Hawaii News Now.

Lava flows are threatening several wells at the Puna Geothermal Venture plant, after earlier cutting off the primary access road to the facility. Hawaii News Now.

Making a bad situation worse: Lava evacuees are running into rental scams. Hawaii News Now.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources is cracking down on lava gawkers who violate closures in disaster areas associated with the current eruption of Kilauea. Star-Advertiser.

Three cited by DLNR for lava-related offenses. The state Department of Land and Natural Resources’ Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement adopted a zero-tolerance policy toward anyone who violates closures in the disaster area associated with the current eruption of Kilauea. Tribune-Herald.

A New York state couple was cited after bypassing a security checkpoint in attempts to view an active lava flow Monday evening, state officials confirmed Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

Air quality reaches ‘unhealthy’ levels in Kona. Hualalai was shrouded in vog as air quality reached “unhealthy” levels for some West Hawaii residents Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

Incandescent Blocks Expelled from Volcano, Land Along Crater Rim. Maui Now

The recent eruptions at Kilauea’s east rift zone have sent fine strands of volcanic glass, also known as Pele’s hair, over Pahoa. Hawaii News Now.

The Pride of America resumes its weekly Wednesday visit to Kailua-Kona today. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Coastal hazards specialist Tara Owens will talk about the impacts of sea level rise at a Maui County Council Planning Committee meeting Thursday. Maui News.

Vietnam War Monument unveiled on Memorial Day. Maui News.

Kauai

The Hawaii Board of Agriculture on Tuesday approved parameters for emergency low-interest agricultural loans for farmers suffering damage due to the heavy rain and flooding on Kauai and Oahu in April and the current eruption phase at Kilauea volcano on Hawaii Island. Garden Island.

It’s been nearly six weeks since Kauai was hit by record flooding. And the recovery continues to be a slow process. Hawaii Public Radio.


Roy Saito has called Kauai home for several decades, but over the years, he’s seen a lot of changes on the island, and that’s why he decided to run for County Council. Garden Island.

Starbucks holds racial-bias training for employees. Garden Island.

Tuesday, May 29, 2018

Hawaii Democrats turn less liberal, lava forces more evacuations, taro shortage looming, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

photo by Abe Rakov
Hawaii state Democratic convention PC: Abe Rakov
Hawaii’s Democrats elected lobbyist Kealii Lopez as their new chairwoman for the next two years Sunday, dealing a blow to the more liberal or “progressive” wing of the party. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s Future Is At Stake, Hanabusa Tells State Democratic Convention. On the event’s second and final day, delegates replace chairman Tim Vandeveer with Kealii Lopez. Civil Beat.

Ige Takes Shots At Trump To Fire Up Audience At Democratic Convention. Facing an uphill battle for re-election, the governor repeatedly stated, “We can be proud as Democrats,” as two-day event began. Civil Beat.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services will award more than $3 million to medical training and early childhood development programs on Oahu and Maui. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

The developer of Kapiolani Residence held a topping-off ceremony for its $200 million, 45-story condominium at 1631 Kapiolani Blvd. as it took another step closer to delivering 292 affordable units to expectant owners. Star-Advertiser.

Crews continue to repair an 8 inch pipe in Pearl City that caused a water main break around 2 p.m. Monday. KITV.

Hawaii Island


A fast-moving lava flow was advancing on several streets in the Leilani Estates subdivision on Monday night, just a day after lava destroyed at least 10 homes in the area, Hawaii County Civil Defense officials said. Hawaii News Now.

One day after emergency personnel raced door to door Sunday night telling residents in a Hawaii island community about an onrush of lava, the county’s disaster management boss delivered a new message for people who refused to heed a previous call to get out. That message on Monday: Please be more prepared to flee at any moment’s notice. Star-Advertiser.

The county’s Civil Defense chief said despite a door-to-door effort Sunday night to warn Leilani Estates residents to evacuate immediately during a lava threat that ended up destroying 10 homes, not all were receptive. Tribune-Herald.

Lava from Fissure 8 is advancing on Nohea and Kupono Streets north of Leilani Street, and there is a lava fountain on Moku Street. Anyone in the area, from Pomaikai east, needs to leave now, civil defense says. Big Island Video News.

Kilauea volcano on Hawaii's Big Island has had it all over the past three weeks: molten rock shooting toward the sky, lava oozing from the ground and ash clouds rising miles into the air. You can also add "vog" to the mix. Associated Press.

Halemaumau Crater has grown exponentially, from 12 acres just a few weeks ago to more than 90 acres today. KHON2.

As dramatic changes are occurring on the floor of Halemaumau crater, and as explosive events are expected to continue, scientists are learning more about the activity at the summit of Kilauea Volcano. Big Island Video News.

USGS scientists relocate to UH Hilo as summit explosions continue. KHON2.

Hawaii County’s Fire Department is one of the key first responder organizations working overtime in lower Puna. Hawaii Public Radio.

Lanipuna Gardens resident claims being stranded for almost 12 days, surrounded by lava. KITV.

Relief is on the way for Big Island residents irked by the accumulation of abandoned vehicles along rural roadways. West Hawaii Today.

Maui


A 280-acre light industrial and commercial park in Pulehunui that the state Department of Land and Natural Resources hopes will generate revenue for its programs is moving forward, after the project’s draft environmental impact statement was released last week. Maui News.

State Representative Troy Hashimoto will host a Lawmakers Listen town hall meeting on Tuesday, May 29, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Iao Intermediate School in room J-204 for the residents of District 8 (Wailuku, Waipaku, Waihee), and any other interested community members. Maui Now.

The County of Maui Real Property Assessment Division recently won the prestigious International Association of Assessing Officers Certificate of Excellence in Assessment Administration. Maui News.

Kauai

The state is moving forward on plans to limit the number of daily visitors to the popular Haena State Park on Kauai’s north shore. Star-Advertiser.

Farmers on Kauai say the state should brace for a shortage of its taro crop after record-breaking rains flooded their fields. Associated Press.

Friday, May 25, 2018

Hawaii officials fear impact of canceled North Korea summit, lava flows continue to impress, Gabbard most popular Hawaii politician in poll, new indictment in Honolulu police corruption case, money flows to Kauai, Maui has #1 beach, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

USGS
USGS map. See Hawaii Island category below for latest lava news
Canceled N. Korea summit may leave Hawaii vulnerable to attack. President Donald Trump’s decision Thursday to cancel his summit with North Korea’s Kim Jong Un was more than just a blow to peace in the Korean Peninsula. Star-Advertiser.

Civil Beat Poll: Tulsi Gabbard Is Hawaii’s Most Popular Politician. Only former President Obama gets higher marks than the Hawaii congresswoman. Civil Beat.

Civil Beat Poll: Hawaii Voters Seem Ready For A Constitutional Convention. A solid majority of those surveyed support the idea of holding the first such event in 40 years. Civil Beat.

April is a traditionally off-peak travel month, however, Hawaii hotels statewide reported solid increases in revenue per available room, average daily rate and room occupancy, according to the Hawaii Hotel Performance Report issued by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Maui Now.

After seven years of growing Hawaii auto sales, the state could see a decline this year. New-vehicle registrations in the state fell 4.3 percent in the first quarter and are projected to drop in 2018. Star-Advertiser.

U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz is co-sponsoring a bill to suspend newly imposed tariffs on Canadian newsprint that is driving up business costs for domestic newspapers, book publishers and commercial printers. Star-Advertiser.

Beachgoers are being advised of elevated bacteria levels at three beaches across the state. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

A federal grand jury returned a new indictment today against retired Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha and his deputy prosecutor wife Katherine Kealoha. Star-Advertiser.

A second superseding indictment against Honolulu's ex-police chief and his deputy prosecutor wife offers new details on the bank fraud, aggravated identity theft and obstruction charges against them. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Cop Fired For Domestic Violence Gets His Job Back. But a labor board panel has temporarily blocked Honolulu Police Chief Susan Ballard’s effort to release information explaining the decision. Civil Beat.

Police union blocks release of details about officer's contentious reinstatement. Hawaii News Now.

Bill 30: Buy Rail "Remnant" Properties. The Honolulu Rail Transit Project is scheduled to start construction on the final city center segment through downtown Honolulu next year. Hawaii Public Radio.

Fate Of Popular Swimming Cove In Kahala Remains Uncertain. A rocky breakwater creates a unique attraction known as Cromwell’s, but it’s been a liability for owners of an oceanfront museum. Civil Beat.

Two Honolulu-based commercial fishing companies have been ordered to pay civil fines after they discharged oily bilge waste into the Pacific Ocean. Star-Advertiser.

Elevated walkways connecting condominium towers in Kakaako were a state vision decades ago. Now the developer of the biggest master-planned community in the area wants to put some in place. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Lava From Kilauea Enters Ocean From Three Flows. The U.S. Marine Corps sends two CH-53E Super Stallion helicopters to help if more evacuations become necessary. Associated Press.

A third lava flow was entering the ocean in Lower Puna, the latest hitting the water between Pohoiki Bay and Mac­Kenzie State Park, Hawaii County Civil Defense officials said Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Blue flames from methane vents surprise scientists. Associated Press.

No sign of increase or decrease in amount of lava; ash plumes persist. Three weeks into the lower Puna eruption, volcanic activity remains high but stable along Kilauea’s East Rift Zone. Tribune-Herald.

Spectacular, but destructive, lava fountains were active in the northeast section of Leilani Estates on Wednesday. The fissures were producing huge ponds of lava and feeding flows that were covering roads in the Puna subdivision. Big Island Video News.

Kilauea volcano’s ongoing eruption is destroying or damaging farms through the air, on the ground and from beneath the Earth’s surface. Civil Beat.

At least six separate fissures are erupting in lower Puna, pumping out an incredible 40 to 60 cubic feet of lava per second, spewing fountains of lava into the air and creating flows that are cascading into the sea some three miles downslope. Hawaii News Now.

NASA uses powerful instruments to help monitor eruption. Tribune-Herald.

Lava, Loss of PGV Capacity Create Electricity Challenges. Hawaii Public Radio.

Puna family still in shock; others hold on, hoping they’ll be spared. Eruptions from Kilauea Volcano have displaced thousands of Puna residents, devoured at least 50 structures and threatened dozens of others in its path. Star-Advertiser.

Another Eruption at Kilauea's Summit Sends Ash 10,000 Feet High. Hawaii Public Radio.

With one highway severed and another one threatened, officials continue to be frank about the possibility of lava flows isolating residents in lower Puna. Tribune-Herald.

With regular explosive bursts at Kilauea’s summit, ash continues to drift over Pahala, covering everything in a fine layer of charcoal-colored dust. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii mayor Harry Kim giving back to the community since 1977. KITV.

The state Department of Transportation on Thursday began its scheduled inspection of Wailuku Bridge, known as the Singing Bridge, in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

The Senate Appropriations Committee passed a bill that includes $3 million to protect Hawaii coffee and maintain agriculture research facilities in Hilo, as well as $32 million to support agricultural inspection stations in airports. Pacific Business News.

With a ceremonial passing of the colors, outgoing Lt. Col. Christopher M. Marquez relinquished command of Pohakuloa Training Area to Lt. Col. Loreto V. Borce Jr. West Hawaii Today.

Mass Transit's cash handling process was inadequate and ineffective to ensure that revenue is properly controlled and deposits are timely and accurate, the auditor found. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Kapalua is Dr. Beach’s No. 1 pick. A crescent-shaped beach on Maui got the top slot Thursday on the list of best beaches issued annually by a Florida professor known as Dr. Beach. Associated Press.

Maui County hotels defy usual April doldrums. Higher average daily room rates and revenue reported. Maui News.

Telescope protester’s trial put on hold. Motion filed in Hawaiian seeking dismissal for lack of a speedy trial. Maui News.

Kauai

As parts of Kauai continue to rebuild from last month’s record rain and flooding, county officials estimate they will need an initial $31.2 million for 90 road, bridge and park repair projects. Star-Advertiser.

Residents of Wainiha and Haena gathered as a community Thursday to discuss what kind of future they envision for Kauai's north shore as the island continues to rebuild. Garden Island.

More than a hundred people gathered in downtown Honolulu Thursday night to raise money for flood victims on Kauai. KHON2.

Gov. David Ige spent Thursday morning learning about the impacts of April’s flooding on the North Shore. Garden Island.

Hawaii has committed to boosting coastal fisheries, and a new study identifies east Kauai as one of the highest-potential fisheries for population recovery. Garden Island.

Wednesday, May 23, 2018

Blue flames the latest show from Kilauea volcano as National Guard prepares for air evacuations, Pentagon withdraws China's RIMPAC invite, slightly more active hurricane season predicted, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands


Blue flames from burning methane are the latest natural phenomena being seen at the eruption of the Kilauea volcano in Hawaii. Associated Press.

A blue-burning flame of methane gas was observed in the cracks on Kahukai Street during the overnight hours in Puna just before midnight on May 22, 2018. Tribune-Herald.

National Guard prepares for air evacuations if lava cuts off key Puna highway. An air evacuation of the portions of Lower Puna that are threatened by the Kilauea volcano eruption could be accomplished within four hours if that becomes necessary because of damage to ground transportation routes, according to Hawaii Army National Guard commander Brig. Gen. Kenneth Hara. Star-Advertiser.

Number of structures claimed by lava rises to 50 as eruptions continue. Hawaii News Now.

Officials Expect New Lava Flow to Enter Ocean. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kilauea Volcano on the Island of Hawaii, though best known for its frequent quiet eruptions of lava flows, has erupted explosively many times in its history—most recently in 2011. USGS Report.

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The Pentagon on Wednesday withdrew an invitation to China to participate in a major Pacific naval exercise, citing Beijing’s “continued militarization” of the South China Sea, adding another irritant to relations between the two nations as they jostle over trade and North Korea. Tribune News.

Forecasters Predict Central Pacific Could See Up To 6 Hurricanes This Season. Weak El Nino conditions — water warming on the surface of the ocean along the equator — could make the next few months stormier. Associated Press.

Forecasters are calling for normal to above-normal tropical cyclone activity within the Central Pacific this hurricane season. West Hawaii Today.

Hurricane Season in Hawaii officially starts next month and forecasters are expecting above normal activity. Hawaii Public Radio.

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Decision Delayed On Hawaii Legislator’s Alleged Campaign Violations. Rep. Kaniela Ing faces more than $15,000 in fines for 31 counts connected to prior campaigns. Civil Beat.

The state Campaign Spending Commission this morning postponed hearing a complaint against state Rep. Kaniela Ing until next month. Star-Advertiser.

The Center for Biological Diversity petitioned the US Food and Drug Administration today to ban two  chemicals from sunscreens and other personal care products that they say are killing precious coral and damaging reefs. Maui Now.

Oahu

The city plans to erase seven crosswalks along busy South King Street. Hawaii News Now.

Ride-hailing apps face price caps under City Council plan. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Despite Kilauea’s worsening volcanic activity, May visitor arrivals are up 25 percent over last year on Hawaii island. Star-Advertiser.

The County is once again distributing free masks for ash protection at various locations, today through Friday. Big Island Video News.

No water restriction yet: New deep well starts pumping in North Kona as 4 remain offline. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The Maui Police Department is the first in the state to be equipped and trained to use a nasal spray that reverses the effects of an opioid overdose. Maui News.

A Makena family’s request to continue holding weddings on its property is headed to the Maui County Council after the Maui Planning Commission recommended approval of an after-the-fact permit Tuesday. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. signed a second emergency proclamation on Wednesday, effectively extending the order prohibiting the operation of vacation rentals in flood-affected areas. Hawaii News Now.

Kahiliholo Road in Kilauea has collapsed after being damaged by Kauai’s April floods, and has created a dam, blocking the waterfall along Kuhio Highway, just before the Kalihiwai River. Garden Island.

The County of Kauai Recycling Office announced a free electronic waste recycling event for residents and businesses set for Sunday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Anaina Hou Community Park behind Kauai Mini Golf in Kilauea. Garden Island.

Geothermal plant 'essentially safe' from lava inundation, Kim leads Chin for Congress in poll, state halts Manoa Stream plan after protests, volcano burns Big Island budget, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Janice Wei
Lava spatter from Kilauea volcano PC: Janice Wei
Geothermal plant declared ‘essentially safe’. A geothermal well field next to a volcanic rift that is fountaining lava was declared “essentially safe” Tuesday after measures were taken to prevent uncontrolled releases of underground fluids and gases. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. David Ige and the state’s Civil Defense chief expressed confidence Tuesday that the risk of a hydrogen sulfide release at Puna Geothermal Venture has been mitigated as lava creeps onto its property. Tribune-Herald.

State and county officials, including Governor David Ige and Hawaii Emergency Management Agency administrator Tom Travis, told a room full of anxious Puna residents that they have managed to plug up the 11th and final well on the Puna Geothermal Venture property, as lava from the lower East Rift Zone eruption nears. Big Island Video News.

Officials Monitoring Lava Flows and Air Quality; PGV "Essentially Safe". Hawaii Public Radio.

Lava continues to inch toward Puna Geothermal Venture's plant, but officials said Tuesday that efforts to quench or plug all 11 wells at the site were successful and that the risk of hazardous gases being released into the community if lava is low. Hawaii News Now.

Former Hawaii Geothermal site destroyed by lava; PGV says risk of of hydrogen sulfide release ‘minimal’. Tribune-Herald.

"Highly active" eruptions won't let up in lower Puna, where residents whose lives have been upended for nearly three weeks are now facing an increasingly dangerous and multi-faceted threat: Rivers of lava threatening homes and creeping closer toward a geothermal plant, eruptions spitting out elevated emissions, and flows cascading into the ocean and creating clouds of toxic gas, steam and tiny slivers of glass. Hawaii News Now.

Civil Beat Poll: Kim Leads Chin In Race For Congress. Fukumoto and Ing show strength among younger voters, many of whom remain undecided. Civil Beat.

Oahu

A proposal to give the mayor the power to hire and fire Honolulu’s police chief was killed Tuesday by a City Council committee. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor Won’t Get Power To Hire Or Fire Honolulu Police Chief. Councilman Ikaika Anderson pulls back his proposals to shake up how the city selects police and fire chiefs and commissions. Civil Beat.

The Case Of A Honolulu Cop Fired For Domestic Violence Is About To Go Public. Darren Cachola, a former HPD sergeant, could get his job back four years after he was caught on tape beating his girlfriend inside a Honolulu restaurant. Civil Beat.

City files class-action suit against service members with abandoned cars. In an effort to speed up its ability to dispose of current and future vehicles abandoned by military service members, the city filed a class-action lawsuit today seeking to consolidate required hearings for the owners into one case. Star-Advertiser.

Manoa Professors Raise A Stink About Sludge Pits — And Get Results. Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources officials say they will postpone a stream dredging plan in Manoa to confer with residents. Civil Beat.

Under pressure from outraged Manoa residents, the state Department of Land and Natural Resources agreed to place a controversial dredging and tree cutting project on hold. Hawaii News Now.

Plans to make improvements to Manoa Stream were put on pause Tuesday after residents in the area voiced their concerns. KHON2.

Campers migrate daily from Kakaako sidewalks to Mother Waldron Park. Star-Advertiser.

Would New Uber And Lyft Rules Hit West Side Drivers Hardest? A lot of drivers live on the Leeward Coast, where incomes are generally lower and driving distances are longer. Civil Beat.

About 82,500 gallons of sewage was spilled in a ditch at the Kailua Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant on Tuesday afternoon. Hawaii News Now.

About 82,500 gallons of wastewater discharged today at the Kailua Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant in Aikahi near Kailua Bay. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Council members stood firm Tuesday that they’re not ready to raise taxes to plug a $7 million hole in the budget that county officials attribute to an ongoing volcanic emergency in Puna. West Hawaii Today.

On Tuesday, the Hawaii County Council dove into the budget for the upcoming fiscal year, but there are already deep concerns over how the eruption in the lower East Rift Zone of Kilauea, only two weeks old, will impact revenues. Big Island Video News.

Mayor Harry Kim has been diagnosed with walking pneumonia but is continuing his work, Managing Director Wil Okabe said Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

After 'lava bomb' hit him, Big Island man feared for his life. Hawaii News Now.

A Hawaii island man injured by what officials called a lava bomb spoke from his hospital bed Tuesday. KHON2.

Some residents of areas untouched by lava remain despite call to evacuate. Tribune-Herald.

Masks to protect against ashfall to be distributed on Big Island. Hawaii News Now.

From tourism to farming, many industries are taking a big hit because of the eruption. The Hawaii Island Chamber of Commerce says hotels, bed and breakfasts, and tour operators are seeing a 50 percent drop in business. KHON2.

The arrow-shaped Mauna Lani Bay Hotel &Bungalows, a Hawaii island fixture for nearly four decades, will close this fall for a $100 million renovation triggering temporary layoffs for about 400 employees. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

Central Kihei residents can expect intermittent water service from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday while contractors work on a waterline tie-in, the Department of Water Supply announced. Maui News.

Stranded hikers are airlifted from Bamboo Forest trail. Maui News.

Kauai

The county’s operating budget and capital improvement projects budget were approved by the Kauai County Council during a committee meeting Tuesday, and a bill offering a real property tax exemption to home owners who install automatic fire suppression systems was moved to the full council. Garden Island.

Kapaa resident Nelson Mukai, 54, has thrown his hat into the race for Kauai County Council. Garden Island.

Tuesday, May 22, 2018

Lava nears geothermal plant, Ige closes Hanabusa's lead in poll, teachers union backs Gabbard's opponent, tight race for lieutenant governor, Big Island taxes could increase to pay for volcano response, Section 8 housing opens on Oahu, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

USGS
Active lava flow from Kilauea volcano PC:USGS
Workers at the Puna Geothermal Venture power plant found themselves in a race against nature Monday as they attempted to seal off a particularly troublesome, deep geothermal well while lava from Kilauea Volcano advanced from the south to a point uncomfortably close to the well pad area. Star-Advertiser.

As lava breached the southern boundary of Puna Geothermal Venture on Monday, the head of a task force created to mitigate potential hazards at the power plant said efforts were underway to neutralize the last “active” well on the property. Tribune-Herald.

Big Island Lava Flows Reach Site Of Geothermal Plant. A naturally occurring berm has so far halted the flow’s advance, but officials warn if the lava does hit the plant’s underground wells it could trigger the release of poisonous gases. Civil Beat.

As active lava begins to encroach on the Puna Geothermal Venture property, officials are working to finish quenching, and hopefully plugging, wells on the site. Big Island Video News.

Lava flow enters Puna Geothermal Venture power plant on Hawaii's Big Island as authorities attempt to kill active wells (Video). Pacific Business News.

Vigorous lava flows continue to cascade into the ocean in lower Puna, creating large plumes of "laze" — clouds of toxic gas, steam and tiny glass particles — that could force nearby residents to evacuate at a moment's notice, authorities warned Monday. Hawaii News Now.

Explosions continue at the summit of Kilauea, prompting authorities to warn area residents about the threat of ashfall. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiian Volcano Observatory reports that a new explosive eruption at Kilauea summit at 3:45 a.m. Tuesday. KHON2.

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Civil Beat Poll: Hanabusa Leads Ige By 6 As Primary Draws Closer. The congresswoman had a narrower gap than earlier polls showed but the governor is still in trouble. Civil Beat.

Civil Beat Poll: Carvalho Ahead In Lieutenant Governor Race. It’s a close contest in a crowded field, with many voters still undecided. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Teachers Union Backs Gabbard Opponent For Congress. In its endorsement of challenger Sherry Campagna, the union sharply criticized Gabbard’s human rights record because of her stance on Syria. Civil Beat.

State Supreme Court upholds use tax. CompUSA had challenged the state’s use tax as unconstitutional since it applies only to out-of-state sellers. Star-Advertiser.

A key Domestic Violence bill failed to pass in the State Legislature this session and supporters want to know why. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii has a shortfall of nearly 30,000 licensed child care slots, according to a study by Child Care Aware of America. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

State reopens section 8 housing waitlist for the first time in 4 years. The voucher program waitlist for section 8 housing on Oahu will be opened next month for the first time in more than 4 years. Hawaii News Now.

The City and County of Honolulu is opening the wait list for the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program. KHON2.

A company trying to build what would be the third wind farm on Oahu’s North Shore has obtained its last discretionary state approval after a contentious proceeding and almost five years of work. Star-Advertiser.

Dozens of trees in Manoa to get the ax as part of stream dredging project. Hawaii News Now.

University of Hawaii leadership is resurrecting efforts to recombine the University of Hawaii Travel Industry Management School with the Shidler College of Business Administration, a move that has been heavily debated over the last decade. Star-Advertiser.

Scientists are waiting for lab results to help determine what caused the recent death of three Hawaiian monk seals on Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Property tax hikes could be back on the table, as county expenses increase even as property values erode, thanks to lava inundation in Puna. West Hawaii Today.

Lava prompts election officials to mail absentee voting applications. Tribune-Herald.

Cruise ship Pride of America cancels Hawaii Island visits for second week. West Hawaii Today.

Puna farmers affected by the volcanic activity on Hawaii Island were set to meet Monday night to learn about the assistance programs that are being available to them lava damages their crops – and their bottom line. Hawaii News Now.

Poverty, illness compound problems for Puna community. Star-Advertiser.

Volcanic emissions drive up ER visits on Hawaii Island. Hawaii News Now.

As the Kilauea eruption continues to make national headlines, organizers of the Ironman are urging triathletes not to cancel their travel plans. Hawaii News Now.

Prosecutor talks challenges law enforcement faces. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui County’s jobless rate dropped to 2 percent in April, the same as the state’s overall rate, a record low, according to the state Department of Labor and Industrial Relations. Maui News.

Kauai

Medical marijuana is now available for the first time on Kauai. The new dispensary in Kapaa opened Monday and is called Have a Heart, operated by Green Aloha Ltd. Garden Island.

Flood, volcano ‘postpone’ popular Taste of Hawaii. Garden Island.