Uber and Lyft allowed at Honolulu airport, pension fund up 7.7%, wind farms seek to kill more bats, cannabis dispensary gets green light, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Ala Wai boat harbor ©2018 All Hawaii News

State floats ideas for future of Ala Wai Boat Harbor. KHON2.

Waikiki crowd criticizes state’s public-private plan for Ala Wai Small Boat Harbor. Star-Advertiser.

Waikiki residents demanded answers from state officials about plans for improvement to the Ala Wai Boat Harbor at Tuesday night’s neighborhood board meeting. Hawaii News Now.

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Nov. 6 Constitutional Amendment Question: Investment Property Surcharge for Education? The State Legislature is expected to submit a Constitutional Amendment question next week for placement on the General Election ballot. Hawaii Public Radio.

Wind Farms Want Permission To Kill More Bats — A Lot More. In a “conservation conundrum,” projects to produce more clean energy are a threat to Hawaii’s only native land mammal. Civil Beat.

State pension fund up 7.7%, surpasses target. The state Employees’ Retirement System, Hawaii’s largest public pension fund, achieved a 7.7 percent investment return for the fiscal year to exceed its annual target and take a step toward narrowing its $12.93 billion shortfall. Star-Advertiser.

After his successful showing during Hawaii's Primary elections last Saturday, Governor David Ige went out of state to spend time with his family. KITV.

Why American Samoans Can’t Run For Office — Or Even Vote. Unlike people born in other U.S. territories, they are not citizens but U.S. nationals. Civil Beat.

Voter turnout was down compared with 2014. Hawaii had 3,357 fewer people voting in the primary this year than in 2014 despite the fact that the state population has grown in the past four years. Star-Advertiser.

This year’s Democratic primary election saw the defeat of three major female candidates by men in top races, disappointing some political observers and advocates who say women are still struggling to navigate gender bias despite a heightened consciousness around women’s rights issues in the past couple of years. Star-Advertiser.

The Native Hawaiian Chamber of Commerce is urging the reform of American trademark and patent laws and reiterating calls for a boycott of a Chicago fast-food chain that trademarked the words “Aloha Poke.” Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Uber and Lyft will be able to operate at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu on a permanent basis after amended administration rules were approved today, state officials said. Star-Advertiser.

State To Allow Lyft, Uber To Operate Permanently At Honolulu Airport. The companies have been operating there as part of a pilot program since last year. Associated Press.

Ride-hailing apps get permanent OK for Honolulu airport pick-ups, drop-offs. Hawaii News Now.

Uber and Lyft to stay at the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. KITV.

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A new bill before the Honolulu City Council seeks to increase bus fares in 2019, some by more than 200%. KHON2.

City Encourages Resident Feedback with Urban Planning. The Department of Planning and Permitting has just kicked off a weeks’ worth of pop up outreach events and plans more over the next year. Hawaii Public Radio.

Sex offender registry is supposed to offer peace of mind. That could be an illusion. Hawaii News Now.

Private Moiliili road dispute takes new turn. A confusing scene might greet the first tenants of the Hale Mahana collegiate rental housing tower opening Thursday in Moiliili. Star-Advertiser.

Don Quijote is new owner of Pan Am Building. A retail chain with a focus on Japanese merchandise is now the owner of a Honolulu office tower named after a long-gone airline. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Marker To Honor Hundreds Of WWII Prisoners Of War. Ceremony planned for Allied prisoners who were killed when U.S. forces sank a Japanese ship. Civil Beat.

A 96-year-old former U.S. Army veteran who was held prisoner by Japan during World War II will help dedicate a memorial stone to other prisoners of war at a national cemetery in Honolulu. Star-Advertiser.

Chick-fil-A will host session for interested franchise operators on Oahu. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

County asks lawmakers to mull $680 million disaster recovery plan. Hawaii County has increased the price tag of its draft Kilauea disaster recovery plan to $680 million as administrators begin to make their pitch to lawmakers. Tribune-Herald.

New panel to be charged with finding solutions to helicopter noise. Dennis Roberts, regional administrator for the FAA’s Western-Pacific Region, said after the meeting that the community has 30 days to provide additional feedback and come together with regard to representation on the committee. Tribune-Herald.

Big Island residents want an end to constant 'disruptive' drone of helicopters. On the Big Island, residents have been complaining about the noise pollution caused by commercial helicopters for years. Hawaii News Now.

Waikoloa asphalt plant permit sought. The Leeward Planning Commission on Thursday is scheduled to hear a request from Goodfellow Bros Inc. to extend the life of its permit for a base yard at the Waikoloa Quarry and approve an asphalt/concrete batching plant in the area. West Hawaii Today.

Big Island Dispensary Gets Green Light To Grow Medical Pot. Hawaiian Ethos is the first dispensary to open in Hawaii County, and the seventh statewide. Associated Press.

The Big Island’s first marijuana production center got the green light today to begin growing plants, a year after Hawaii’s first dispensaries opened on Maui and Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Ethos gets approval to grow marijuana. The state Department of Health authorized the first business on the Big Island to grow cannabis and manufacture cannabis products. Tribune-Herald.

First Hawaii Island Medical Cannabis Licensee Given The Go Ahead. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Maui County’s voter turnout of 36.2 percent of registered voters in Saturday’s election was the highest percentage for a primary election in two decades, but local election officials are hoping for better in the general election. Maui News.

PUC agrees to interim rate hike for Maui Electric. Typical Maui bill will rise $7.75 a month. Maui News.

Kauai

Seeking the new normal on the North Shore. About 150 people showed up for a meeting in Hanalei held by the county’s Public Works Department Monday night to talk about repairs to Black Pot Beach Park and Weke Road set to begin soon. Garden Island.

Hanapepe Bridge transitions. The project to replace the Hanapepe River Bridge is changing hands as construction on the temporary bridge is completed, and traffic will soon be changing as well. Garden Island.

Lanai

Patients who receive health services in their own homes on Lanai are worried about the future. Their concern: The partnership that provides at-home assistance to dozens of senior citizens is ending. Hawaii News Now.

A good year for flowers, Honolulu police sport body cams, Big Island lava recovery now has $670M price tag, politics continue after primary election, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Orchids on display at Hilo show ©2018 All Hawaii News

Last year was the best year in a decade for Hawaii flower and landscape plant farmers, according to a recent report. The industry generated $77.6 million in sales, which was up 4 percent from $74.5 million in 2016 and was the highest take since $94.7 million in 2008. Star-Advertiser.

Early-voting trends weigh on future of all-mail ballots. KHON2.

Has Carpenters Union Lost Some Of Its Political Muscle? Its super PACs have spent big money in recent elections, but its anointed candidates often lose. The latest example: Colleen Hanabusa. Civil Beat.

Republican candidate for lieutenant governor says her running mate should apologize. The winner of the primary to run as her lieutenant governor —Marissa Kerns — is urging Tupola to say she's sorry about voting with the Democratic majority on some issues. Hawaii News Now.

Name Recognition, Blank Votes Dominate OHA Races. Ten candidates are still in the running for five seats on the OHA Board of Trustees. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii officially drops case against President Trump's travel ban. Attorneys representing Hawaii had been fighting the president's travel bans in court since early 2017, and in June, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of the president. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii protesters return to Chicago streets in ongoing 'aloha poke' saga. Protests continue against Chicago-based Aloha Poke Company, with the latest happening Monday in the Windy City. Hawaii News Now.

Crossing America In The Hunt For New Teachers. Hawaii school officials have a new strategy for filling teacher vacancies: Bring principals along on mainland recruitment trips. Civil Beat.

HDOT Saves Millions Refinancing Revenue Bonds. In a move that will generate $27 million of savings for the Airports Division over the next 16 years, the Hawaii Department of Transportation has successfully refinanced $245 million of outstanding revenue bonds. Maui Now.

Hawaiian Airlines has launched an all-cargo neighbor island service that will bring it closer to its roots while expanding its shipping operations throughout the state and beyond. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

HPD begins using body cameras on officers. Body cameras became part of the uniform for about 30 downtown Honolulu and Chinatown patrol officers Monday as the Honolulu Police Department officially joined the ranks of other large American cities where cameras are used in an effort to be more transparent in interactions with the public. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu police issued the first set of body cameras to 35 officers Monday. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Police Department starts roll out of body cameras. KHON2.

The trial is set for a Honolulu police officer who has been charged with multiple counts of abuse involving a family member. Star-Advertiser.

A Honolulu City Council committee Monday advanced a plan for a 400-foot tower fronting Ala Moana Center despite an in-person plea by Mayor Kirk Caldwell to hold off to allow city officials to keep open the option of using the location for a transit hub and possible path for rail to UH Manoa. Star-Advertiser.

Can The World’s Largest Law Firm Practice In Hawaii? A Honolulu lawyer wants to block the merger of one of the state’s most prominent law firms with a giant multinational. Civil Beat.

UH Manoa students start moving into dorms this week. Expect traffic delays around the UH Manoa campus this week, as nearly 3,500 students move into campus residence halls from August 14-17. KHON2.

State officials assured the public that the slope between the two Pali tunnels is now stable after a rockfall during the peak, morning commute hours Monday damaged several vehicles in the highway’s Honolulu­-bound lanes. Star-Advertiser.

Chick-fil-A registers to do business in Hawaii. The company said it plans to open the Aloha State’s first Chick-fil-A on Oahu and, like all Chick-fil-A restaurants, it will be owned and operated by a local resident. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii County request for $670 million detailed. Hawaii County’s draft recovery plan to cope with the May 3 lava flow includes a lump sum of $196 million to buy property or compensate landowners in the most risky areas in what is known as Lava Zone 1, according to a document detailing the plan. Star-Advertiser.

The Big Island, especially West Hawaii and some areas in Puna, preferred U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa over incumbent Gov. David Ige in Saturday’s Democratic primary election. A precinct-by-precinct analysis of Big Island votes showed, at least this election, the votes pretty much followed the money. West Hawaii Today.

Newly Elected Council Members Face A County In Turmoil. Most of the leadership lineup is set after the primary, and big challenges lie ahead in dealing with the volcanic eruption. Civil Beat.

Pohoiki boat ramp ‘totally blocked by sandbar’. Tribune-Herald.

Kilauea sulfur dioxide emissions hit lowest levels since 2008. Hawaii News Now.

It’s been a year since Hawaii’s first legal sale of marijuana and nearly two decades since the state approved the drug for medical use, and still, no retail dispensaries have started selling on the Big Island. Associated Press.

Medical Marijuana Dispensary to Open Soon. Big Island Now.

Waikoloa Special Forces soldier killed in Afghanistan. One of Hawaii Island’s own, Sgt. 1st Class Reymund R. Transfiguracion, died Sunday from wounds he suffered five days before while serving his country in Helmand province, Afghanistan. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Finalists for Maui Fire Chief Narrowed to Four. Fire finalists under consideration by the commission include Chief David Thyne, Capt. Kaulana Kino, Chief Lionel Montalvo and Capt. Guy Danley. Maui Now.

West Maui Hospital group seeks partner. Some local officials are wondering if the focus of the whole project should change. Maui News.

Tropic Care no-cost health services reporting for duty. This military training exercise is providing medical, dental, vision care across the county — but it ends Sunday. Maui News.

A Hawaiian Airlines flight to San Francisco from Kahului turned back to Honolulu on Saturday because of a passenger. Star-Advertiser.


Kauai

Kauai County unveils plans to repair flood-ravaged areas near iconic Hanalei pier. On Kauai, its been almost four months since historic flooding devastated parts of the island. Hawaii News Now.

The state Commission on Water Resource Management is going to visit a few different streams and hydropower plants on Kauai Aug. 20. Garden Island.

Deadline nears to seek disaster help. Kauai County and the City and County of Honolulu residents with losses as a result of April’s storms have through Aug. 27 to register for disaster assistance with FEMA. Garden Island.

The U.S. Postal Service will commemorate Thursday its latest ‘Forever stamp’ depicting Kauai’s picturesque Na Pali coast. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Democrats make up at unity breakfast, Republicans plan next move; analysis of election results; dirty politics in lava district; Maui mayor trails in bid for council seat; more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Democrats unity breakfast, courtesy photo

On The Day After, Democratic Dominance On Display. As always, winners and losers came together in the same room just hours after the primary for the biennial Unity Breakfast. Civil Beat.

Democrats reflect, press on at Unity Breakfast. After months of battling on the campaign trail, Hawaii democrats gathered Sunday morning to break bread and move forward at the party's traditional Unity Breakfast. KHON2.

After a fierce battle in the primaries, Hawaii's Democratic party candidates woke up early Sunday to come together in unity. KITV.

Democrats, Republicans unite to strengthen parties into general election. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Republicans gather with high hopes for the general election. KHON2.

Gov. David Ige swept two-thirds of the House districts across the state on his way to a win over U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa in the Democratic primary election Saturday, with Hanabusa claiming half of the neighbor islands and a sizable portion of Leeward Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Inside Ige’s Political Turnaround — And How Hanabusa Helped Him. Two natural disasters and an opponent whose overconfident campaign tried to run out the clock helped the governor secure a second term. Civil Beat.

Political analyst recaps election night surprises. Some landslide victories in Saturday's primary election - and some surprises, too. KITV.

What Happens to All Those Campaign Signs? Hawaii Public Radio.

Hickam C-17 crews participated in historic N. Korea mission. The three Hawaii-based C-17s flew west days apart and landed at Osan Air Base in South Korea for what would be the rarest of missions. Star-Advertiser.

Last year was the best year in a decade for Hawaii flower and landscape plant farmers, according to a recent report. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Surprise upsets in Honolulu City Council race. In the Honolulu City Council, Trevor Ozawa came out on top for District Four, Carol Fukanaga was the winner in District Six and Heidi Tsuneyoshi took the most votes in District Two, which covers Mililani all the way to Kahaluu. KITV.

State Senator Brickwood Galuteria loses seat in primary election. He represents District 12 which includes Waikiki, McCully and Kakaako. KHON2.

New prosperity envisioned for downtown’s Wo Fat building. What is described as the “most iconic building” in Honolulu’s historic Chinatown district is slated for restoration and return to restaurant use under a plan that also envisions a boutique hotel on the property. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Bad blood in Puna: Ousted councilwoman cries foul. When the dust settled on the Hawaii County Council District 4 primary election race, the final returns showed a political newcomer winning a 20-point landslide as a result of what she called an “aloha-driven, clean, positive campaign” and the ousted incumbent saying it “was anything but that.” Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County Council District 7 race headed for runoff in November. Hawaii’s primary elections were over as of today, but the race for Hawaii County Council District 7 is far from the finish line. West Hawaii Today.

Commentary: Political snits snarl recovery from Big Isle eruption disaster. House Speaker Scott Saiki and Finance Chairwoman Sylvia Luke are out of line in their political bullying of Big Island officials trying to recover from an ongoing volcanic disaster that has crippled a major quadrant of the island. Star-Advertiser.

The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation donated $300,000 to the Hawaii Community Foundation’s Hawaii Island Volcano Recovery Fund. Pacific Business News.

A six-bedroom estate in Kukio Golf and Beach Club recently sold for $18.5 million, the second sale in the exclusive resort community on the Big Island of Hawaii to sell for more than $15 million this year. Pacific Business News.

Maui

Baker’s win came by mail. But home districts also provided strongholds for this rematch from 2014. Maui News.

Home district voters key for Victorino and Cochran. Both candidates want to counter the stereotypes and reach more voters. Maui News.

Voters snub Arakawa in primary election for Kahului council seat. With all but one precinct reporting, mayor trails, but assured place in general election. Maui News.

A controversial new seawall in West Maui is starting to take shape. The project is moving forward after a judge denied an injunction to block construction late last month. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Congratulations and a shared desire for the well-being of Kauai were on tap at the Democratic Unity Breakfast, held at the Kauai Veterans Center on Sunday afternoon, as about 70 candidates and supporters gathered to celebrate the successes of the party. Garden Island.

There May Be No Stopping Derek Kawakami’s Mayoral Campaign. Meanwhile, a political newcomer emerges in the County Council race on a day when some of the island’s few voters were inspiring. Civil Beat.

Sunday morning the fifth and final printout for Hawaii’s primary 2018 primary elections was released, solidifying who is moving on to campaign for November’s general election. Garden Island.

Families that harvest salt from salt beds in Kauai fear current conditions in the unincorporated community of Hanapepe and climate change are threatening their important cultural practice. Associated Press.

Lanai

Air Charter Service Offered at Four Seasons Resort Lanai. Tourism executives say guests of the resort can now bypass airport waits and enjoy private daily air charter service from Honolulu’s Daniel K Inouye International Airport to Lanai City on one of two Pilatus PC-12 Lanai Air two-pilot aircraft operated by Mokulele Airlines. Maui Now.

It's Ige, Tupola, Green, Case. Plus three incumbents toppled in Legislature, final official results for all counties, more primary election news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. David Ige at election eve grand rally ©2018 All Hawaii News

Final statewide results here.

Ige defeats Hanabusa, will face Tupola in November. In a stunning reversal of political fortunes, Gov. David Ige brushed off opposition from much of Hawaii’s Democratic establishment Saturday on his way to defeating his top rival, U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa. Star-Advertiser.

Ige Defeats Hanabusa In Democratic Primary For Governor. Incumbent Hawaii Gov. David Ige will be heavily favored in the general election against the GOP nominee, state Rep. Andria Tupola. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Gov. David Ige won the Democratic primary in his bid for a second term in office Saturday, defeating U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa, who gave up her seat in Congress to run for governor. Associated Press.

Incumbent David Ige fought off a fierce challenge from U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa on Saturday night to win the Democratic primary race for governor in his bid for a second term. Hawaii News Now.

Gubernatorial candidate Colleen Hanabusa cedes race, asks supports to vote Ige next. KITV.


Tupola Wins GOP Primary For Governor. The state lawmaker defeated perennial GOP candidate John Carroll and former DOE official Ray L’Heureux. Civil Beat.
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Green’s well-funded campaign outpaces fellow senator Tokuda. State Sen. Josh Green edged out his Senate colleague Jill Tokuda Saturday, in the five-way Democratic race to be Hawaii’s next lieutenant governor. Star-Advertiser.

Josh Green Prevails In Democratic Lieutenant Governor Race. Super PAC funding helped state Sen. Josh Green gain a significant advertising edge over state Sen. Jill Tokuda in the lead-up to the election. Civil Beat.

State Sen. Josh Green won the Democratic primary for lieutenant governor on Saturday night, emerging as the top vote-getter in a crowded field of seasoned politicians. Hawaii News Now.

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In the hotly contested 1st congressional district primary race, late entry Ed Case soundly defeated his opponents in Democratic Party voting today. Star-Advertiser.

Ed Case Wins 1st Congressional District Primary Race. U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard easily wins the Democratic nomination for the 2nd Congressional District. Civil Beat.
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Three incumbents in the state Legislature, one in the Senate and two in the House, lost their Capitol jobs after nearly all of the votes were counted in Saturday’s primary election. Star-Advertiser.

3 Incumbent Lawmakers Lose State Legislative Seats. Sen. Brickwood Galuteria, as well as Reps. Cindy Evans and Lei Learmont, lost their re-election efforts. Civil Beat.

19 incumbents secure seats after running unopposed in the primary. KHON2.

OHA Candidates Headed To General Election Runoff. Kalei Akaka and Esther Kia‘aina will face off for the Oahu trustee seat while three incumbents advance with three challengers to November. And three incumbents trustees — John Waihee IV, Lei Ahu Isa and Rowena Akana — will face three challengers for the three at-large positions on the OHA board. Civil Beat.

Commentary: Humble pie on the menu at post-election Unity Breakfast. There are bound to be some awkward moments at the Democratic Party’s Unity Breakfast this morning. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Final Oahu results here.

Incumbent Riviere beats Hee for Senate seat representing North Shore, Windward areas. Hawaii News Now.

In surprising twist, challenger beating incumbent in state Senate race. Incumbent Sen. Brickwood Galuteria is behind challenger Sharon Moriwaki. KHON2.

In City Council races, some candidates win outright while others head to runoff. Hawaii News Now.
Tommy Waters and Trevor Ozawa headed to November runoff. Political newcomer Heidi Tsuneyoshi and veteran politician Carol Fukunaga clinched victories in their respective Honolulu City Council races, while Councilman Trevor Ozawa will need to go head-to-head against former state Rep. Tommy Waters in November to win re-election. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Final Hawaii Island results here.

Sen. Lorraine R. Inouye, who represents North Hawaii in the state Senate, defeated challenger Heather Kimball in Saturday night’s Democratic primary. Because no other party fielded candidates in the race for the Senate District 4 seat, Saturday’s primary decides the election. West Hawaii Today.

Dru Kanuha appeared on track to defeat Brenda Ford in a hotly contested case Saturday for the Democratic nomination for the state’s 3rd Senate District. West Hawaii Today.

State Rep. Richard Onishi appeared certain of victory Saturday night, with a significant lead over his sole opponent in the Democratic primary election for House District 3. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County Council incumbents fared well in Saturday’s primary election except in District 4, where Puna Councilwoman Eileen O’Hara was trailing challenger Ashley Kierkiewicz. Tribune-Herald.

Incumbent Councilwoman Maile David easily held her District 6 seat against two challengers Saturday, winning a third term without being forced to a runoff in the general election. West Hawaii Today.

Incumbent Kohala Councilman Tim Richards won his second term Saturday, holding off his lone challenger by claiming 2,531 votes, or 54.16 percent of the vote with all three precincts reporting Saturday night. Challenger Maya Parish won 2,142 votes, and 409 voters left the selection blank. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Final Maui results here.

Former Maui County Council Member Mike Victorino took a strong early lead in the mayor’s race and held on throughout the night to advance to the general election along with Council Member Elle Cochran on Saturday night. Maui News.

Baker leads Amato by 89 votes for Senate seat. Yamashita holds on to slim lead over Lawrence with one precinct still out. Maui News.

Kauai

Final Kauai results here.

Mayoral race: The final readout of the primary election, with 16 of 16 precincts reporting, showed Derek Kawakami with 8,633 votes, Mel Rapozo with 3,925, JoAnn Yukimura with 3,480 and Lenny Rapozo with 1,003. Garden Island.

County Council incumbents were poised to easily move on to November’s general election, holding four of the top five spots with all 16 precincts reporting in Saturday’s primary election. Garden Island.

Candidates make last-minute pitches ahead of Saturday primary, tax breaks for accessory dwelling units, Land Board member contacted TMT judge, taro shortage looms following Kauai floods, no swag at Maui Jim invitational, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

No vote no grumble file photo

Candidates running in this year’s primary made their final pitches to voters this week ahead of election day on Saturday. Star-Advertiser.

In the final days before Saturday's primary election, candidates are trying to get a little creative to get attention from voters. Hawaii News Now.

Primary settles most races in Democrat dominated Hawaii. That's because the Democratic Party continues to overwhelmingly dominate Hawaii politics. The Republican Party isn't even fielding candidates in most state legislative districts. Associated Press.

Democratic Gubernatorial Candidates Sign Wave to the Finish Line. Precinct voting sites are due to open Saturday and the Democratic contenders for Governor are making their final push to the finish line. Hawaii Public Radio.

False missile alert plays key role in Hawaii governor race. Hawaii Gov. David Ige wants voters to look at his four years of accomplishments, including his handling of Big Island’s erupting volcano, as reasons to give him a second term. But U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa, his main opponent in Saturday’s Democratic primary in the heavily blue state, wants voters to look at 38 minutes in January as reason enough to send Ige packing. Associated Press.

Wannabe voters for the first time will be able to register to vote — and vote — on the same day at all 235 polling places across the islands Saturday. Star-Advertiser.

It Looks Like Voter Turnout Will Be As Low As Ever For Saturday’s Primary. The pattern of absentee voting is similar to the 2016 primary, which ended up having the lowest turnout in state history. Civil Beat.

Rising Democratic star rallies for isle candidate. The special guest, and a major draw, was Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, an emerging progressive leader in the Democratic Party, who flew into Honolulu to lend some last-minute support to Rep. Kaniela Ing’s campaign. Star-Advertiser.

Ocasio-Cortez Brings Her Star Power To Hawaii To Boost Kaniela Ing. The democratic socialist who recently scored a big upset in New York appears at a rally for Ing’s congressional candidacy. Civil Beat.

Congressional candidate Kaniela Ing gains support from rising Democratic star. Hawaii News Now.

What's at Stake in the Office of Hawaiian Affairs Race? While a lot of attention is focused on the Governor’s race, there’s a lot at stake for the Office of Hawaiian Affairs as well. Hawaii Public Radio.

Take The Civil Beat 2018 Primary Election Quiz. Think you’re a political whiz? Test your knowledge of top candidates running for office in Hawaii. Civil Beat.

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Health Department to begin enforcing new food handler certification rule. Section 11-50-20(c), Hawaii Administrative Rules (HAR), requires that the person in charge of a food establishment during normal work hours (including during food preparation) complete training in proper food handling in order to obtain certification. KHON2.

The former Love’s Bakery in Kalihi, a billion-dollar Maui hotel and about 1,500 rental homes in Ewa Beach have put Hawaii commercial real estate sales this year on a blistering pace that already has topped last year’s total, according to a new report. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii to receive funding to remove more than a ton of debris from coastlines. NOAA will give $231, 660 to Hawaii Wildlife Fund for the project to remove debris from the coastlines of Hawaii Island, Kauai, Maui and Lanai. KHON2.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration will award more than $230,000 to the Hawaii Wildlife Fund to remove 112 metric tons of abandoned fishing gear and marine debris from the coastlines of the Big Island, Kauai, Maui and Lanai. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

The state Office of Election said around 400 volunteers are still needed for polling sites across Oahu. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu homeowners who want to build accessory dwelling units would get annual tax breaks of about $200 under a bill proposed by Mayor Kirk Caldwell. Star-Advertiser.

There could be more incentive for homeowners who build an accessory dwelling unit. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell introduced a new bill, that would give homeowners a $60,000 exemption on the value of their property. KHON2.

A state board gave the go-ahead Thursday for Howard Hughes Corp. to develop its sixth condominium tower at Ward Village in Kakaako. Star-Advertiser.

Crews complete repairs to 16-inch water main break in Haleiwa. Crews completed repairs Friday to a 16-inch water main break that shut down a major thoroughfare in Haleiwa and resulted in a school closure. Hawaii News Now.

Despite the initial threat of a hurricane bringing wind and rain, marine wildlife artist Wyland finished restoring a whale mural late Thursday afternoon that originally was dedicated 23 years ago by the late actor Pat Morita. Star-Advertiser.

Saint Francis School will be led by a male head of school for the first time in its 94-year history following the ouster in June of Sister Joan of Arc Souza. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

A member of the Board of Land and Natural Resources who supports the Thirty Meter Telescope tried to contact state Supreme Court Justice Michael Wilson in violation of court rules. Star-Advertiser.

PGV to remain offline for at least 18 months. Ormat Technologies, owners of Puna Geothermal Venture, revealed in a Wednesday earnings call that reopening the power plant would take at least 18 months. Tribune-Herald.

A new restriction is in place for Hawaii Community Correctional Center inmate releases as Public Safety officials probe a July blunder that resulted in an accused murderer being erroneously released into the community. West Hawaii Today.

Aquarium fish industry says no significant impact in resuming netting. West Hawaii Today.

Queen Kaahumanu Highway Widening Celebrated In Kona. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Ethics board warns against accepting tournament gifts. For years swag from the Maui Jim Maui Invitational basketball tourney has been given to county officials. Maui News.

Maui ethics board warns against accepting tournament gifts. The Maui ethics board is advising county employees and elected officials to not accept swag or tickets from college basketball tournament officials, warning the gifts could be seen as intent to influence or reward in the performance of their official duties. Associated Press.

C-SPAN Bus Visits Maui August 21-23. C-SPAN, the Washington, D.C.-based public affairs network, in coordination with Spectrum, is heading to Hawaii August 15-25 as the next leg of the network’s 14-month 50 Capitals Tour. Maui Now.

Kauai

Early voting polls closed at 4 p.m., but voters still have an opportunity to cast their ballots Saturday. This election will decide which two Kauai mayoral candidates will move on to November’s general election. It will also decide the 14 council candidates who advance. Garden Island.

Could Hawaii face a taro shortage? Farms still fighting after April's floods. Taro farms along the North Shore of Kauai still have not recovered from the record rainfall and flooding back in April. Their setbacks could lead to a state-wide taro shortage. KITV.

Community cats are next in line for sterilization as September draws closer and with it the next step in the Animal Balance FIX Kauai project. Garden Island.

Hawaii Supreme Court rules in favor of Thirty Meter Telescope in first of two key pending cases, state starts new psychiatric hospital, Hurricane Hector spares Hawaii, who owns aloha, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

File photo of Thirty Meter Telescope protester PC:Occupy Hilo

 Hawaii Supreme Court Ruling Is A Win For The Thirty Meter Telescope. The ruling prevents another contested case hearing, but a construction permit appeal is still pending before the court. Associated Press.

The state Supreme Court handed the Thirty Meter Telescope project a lifeline Wednesday by ruling that a contested case hearing is not required for a sublease with the University of Hawaii at Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

In a triumph for the Thirty Meter Telescope, the state Supreme Court on Wednesday unanimously ruled against a TMT opponent who was seeking an additional contested case hearing for the stalled Mauna Kea project. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Supreme Court has overturned a lower court decision to vacate the state’s consent to the sublease between the TMT International Observatory and the University of Hawaii, ruling that the appellant, E. Kalani Flores, was not entitled to a separate contested case hearing on the matter. Big Island Video News.

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Billionaires Boost Hawaii Republican Party’s Finances. Even though Democrats dominate the islands, the state GOP has more money than in recent years thanks to a few big donations. Civil Beat.

Women's Issues in Hawaii 2018: Evolution or Revolution? Hawaii Public Radio.

The Hawaii State Teachers Association has endorsed Lt. Gov. Doug Chin for U.S. Congress, saying Chin is a fighter for education and “someone who is going to work to improve the lives of our children and our workers.” Star-Advertiser.

Wednesday is last day of "Walk-In" voting for the Primary Elections in Hawaii, but for the first time the state's offering "Same Day" voter registration at the polls. KITV.

Hurricane Hector Skirts South Of Hawaii As It Weakens. Gusty winds on the Big Island but no landfall for the category 3 storm. Associated Press.

For Many Native Hawaiians, Owning ‘Aloha’ Is Not Very Aloha. There are more than 1,000 trademarks using the term, raising broader questions about protecting Native Hawaiian intellectual property. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s medical marijuana industry has made slow but meaningful strides since pot dispensaries opened a year ago. Star-Advertiser.

EPA Administrator Addresses Red Hill, Hawaii Cesspools, Water Protection. The new Environmental Protection Agency Region IX Administrator, Mike Stoker, met with US Representative Tulsi Gabbard on Tuesday to discuss key concerns and environmental threats to Hawaii’s people. Maui Now.

New commander, changing focus at Marine Corps Forces Pacific. The Marine Corps is fashioning a 21st century version of island hopping with new strategies that include a greater distribution of forces and speedy repositioning around Pacific archipelagos in the event of a future conflict that would likely see the United States challenged at sea by long-range missiles. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

GOP Candidate Challenges Citizenship Ruling. Sai Timoteo contends state officials have proceeded improperly, but they say they’ve done everything right. Civil Beat.

The state broke ground Wednesday on a new 144-bed psychiatric facility at the Hawaii State Hospital in Kaneohe. Star-Advertiser.

State breaks ground on new $140M (near escape-proof) State Hospital building. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii State Hospital in Kaneohe broke ground Wednesday on a new four-story, 144-bed forensic psychiatric facility. KHON2.

The developer of a “collegiate housing” tower in Moiliili had the 14-story apartment building blessed floor by floor Wednesday in anticipation of initial renters moving in Aug. 15. Star-Advertiser.

A special blessing took place Wednesday for a new student housing complex near Manoa. Hawaii News Now.

City attorneys are heading to the bargaining table to try and settle a civil lawsuit over a gambling case that failed twice in court and resulted in state judges scolding deputy prosecutors. Hawaii News Now.

Ailing banyan being removed was monument to Moiliili’s first Japanese settlers. A piece of history was lost Tuesday as city contractors began cutting down an ailing, century-old Chinese banyan tree at Moiliili Triangle Park. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Mayor Harry Kim, the County Council and two members of the island’s state legislative delegation came closer to an understanding Wednesday about how to ask for money to rebuild island infrastructure in the wake of the volcanic eruption and destructive lava flow. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii island Mayor Harry Kim is asking for a huge relief package totaling $500 million to $600 million to help his island recover from the months-long Kilauea Volcano eruption, but state lawmakers say they’ve been unable to learn so far how such a package would be financed, or how the money would be used. Star-Advertiser.

Local lawmakers are talking over the county’s heading into a possible special state legislative session that could be convened to address the volcanic eruption on the lower East Rift Zone of Kilauea. Big Island Video News.

The Hawaii County Council unanimously adopted the Hamakua Community Development Plan on Wednesday, despite some misgivings over a land use designation for Hakalau Point. Tribune-Herald.

All of the county’s absentee walk-in voting sites, including those at the Pahoa and Pahala community centers, will be open today now that the threat of Hurricane Hector has passed, according to the Office of Elections. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County Council Member Elle Cochran’s decision to give up her West Maui residency seat to run for mayor has left an open seat with three candidates vying to advance from Saturday’s primary to the Nov. 6 general election. Maui News.

Hotels, local businesses and Maui County have agreed to let Maui Electric Co. reduce its power on short notice to help keep the grid stable during periods of high demand. Maui News.

A record for Maui home prices has stood for 13 years, and last month it came close to being brushed aside. The record was set at $780,000 in May 2005 for the median sale price of single-family homes. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

No Island Is Immune From The Opioid Scourge. Authorities routinely recover dirty syringes and other big-city drug paraphernalia. All manner of prescription painkillers are turning up. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Foodbank is asking for emergency food and monetary donations. Garden Island.

A Hawaiian monk seal pup recently rescued on Kauai is in stable condition at Ke Kai Ola, The Marine Mammal Center’s hospital and visitor center in Kailua-Kona that is dedicated to the endangered marine mammal. Garden Island.

Hurricane Hector to pass south of Hawaii today, $550M price tag for volcano recovery, super PAC criticisms intensify as election nears, fish return after tourists fled Kauai, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hurricane Hector Wednesday morning, NOAA

Hurricane Hector, a major storm in the Central Pacific, has maintained its strength as it continues churning closer to the islands. At 5 a.m. Wednesday, the storm was packing maximum sustained winds of 125 miles per hour, with occasional higher gusts. Hawaii News Now.

Packing maximum sustained winds of 125 mph this morning, the still-powerful Category 3 Hurricane Hector is well south of the islands and expected to stay on a westward track away from Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Northern fringes of Hector expected to ‘brush the Big Island’. A state of emergency was declared late Tuesday by Hawaii County Managing Director Wil Okabe due to the threat of Hurricane Hector. Tribune-Herald.

Fringes of Hector to Brush Big Island, 73 mph Winds. Maui Now.

Hector may have weakened to a Category Three hurricane, but with maximum sustained near 125 mph, it is still a powerful storm. Big Island Video News.

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Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard Avoids Public Debate/Forum in Primary Election Race. Hawaii’s Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard has made it through two election cycles without facing any of her challengers in a public debate or forum. Hawaii Public Radio.

Four days before the primary election, some candidates are pushing back against a slew of ads paid for by Super PACs. Hawaii News Now.

Super PAC donations draw criticism. Kauai Mayor Bernard Carvalho raised concerns about the influx of super PAC money in the race to be Hawaii’s next lieutenant governor during remarks in the rotunda of the state Capitol on Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

It may be a few days before Hawaii’s primary election, but for Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr., that doesn’t mean he’s slowing his campaign for the lieutenant governor’s seat. Garden Island.

How Martin Hamburger Became A Staple Of Hawaii Politics. A Washington advertising consultant made headway in the islands by helping big-name clients who were willing to poke fun at themselves. Civil Beat.

RIMPAC glitches adjusted on the fly. There’s an old military adage that no battle plan survives first contact with the enemy — and the need to adapt on the fly applies to military exercises such as Rim of the Pacific as well. Star-Advertiser.

After several disasters, Hawaii Foodbank sees its stockpile dwindle. Every day, the Hawaii Foodbank distributes up to 50,000 pounds of food to member agencies who get it to the hungry. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Foodbank in 'urgent need' of supplies following recent natural disasters. The Hawaii Foodbank said it is in “urgent need” of emergency food and monetary donations, following a decrease in summer donations. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Lawsuit over Kakaako condo tower ‘defects’ dismissed. A federal judge in Honolulu has dismissed a lawsuit in which a developer sought more than $75 million in damages from a contractor for alleged construction defects in the ultraluxury Waiea condominium tower in Kakaako. Star-Advertiser.

Settlement talks set to begin in civil rights suit over huge gambling case that failed twice. City attorneys are heading to the bargaining table to try and settle a civil lawsuit over a gambling case that failed twice in court and resulted in state judges scolding deputy prosecutors. Hawaii News Now.

Forensic lab in Hawaii begins long process to identify Korean War remains. Inside a government forensic lab on Oahu are the remains of what are believed to be American soldiers killed in the Korean war. KITV.

The U.S. Army has agreed to restore access to a valley considered sacred on Oahu in a settlement with a Native Hawaiian cultural group. Associated Press.

As thousands of students return to school this month, the Hawaii Department of Transportation announced it will suspend one week of morning road closures as part of its “Beat the School Jam” initiative. Star-Advertiser.

After more than 40 years of creating some of Hawaii's favorite desserts, today is the last day for Saint-Germain and Dee Lite Bakery. KHON2.

Solar permits issued on Oahu fell in July for the second month in a row but are still ahead of the year-earlier period. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Mayor Harry Kim plans to ask the state Legislature for $550 million for disaster recovery following three months of destructive lava flows and earthquakes in the wake of the May 3 eruption of Kilauea volcano. West Hawaii Today.

County spending for lava response tops $5 million. Hawaii County has spent $5.1 million responding to the Kilauea eruption in the past three months. Tribune-Herald.

The County of Hawaii Clerk's Office will close absentee walk-in voting sites at the Pahoa Community Center and the Pahala Community Center on Wednesday, August 8, due to the threat posed by Hurricane Hector. KHON2.

Respected cultural practitioners spoke during Tuesday council committee meeting in support of an appropriate process to name the volcanic Fissure 8 on Kilauea Volcano's lower East Rift Zone. Big Island Video News.

News of a slowdown in the 3-month-old Kilauea volcanic eruption has brought a glimmer of relief to the Big Island’s tourism industry. Star-Advertiser.

Lava flow’s impacts hit Kona and Kohala Coast. While Hawaii island tourism is still up year over year, it experienced a 5 percent drop in visitor arrivals in June. Hotel occupancy also dropped in June by its largest amount in almost five years. Star-Advertiser.

A district on Hawaii’s Big Island is among the top 10 markets where homebuyers look to buy vacation rental properties, according to a report from Vacasa. North Kona, which includes Kailua-Kona, was ranked No. 9 on Vacasa’s list of the top 25 markets for buying a vacation rental. Pacific Business News.

Array of tests zero in on disease afflicting wild horses in Waipio Valley. Around a dozen wild horses in Waipio Valley have died inexplicably and in similar fashion over the last two months. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui re-launching Junk Vehicles Disposal Assistance Program. Under this program, residents will be able to dispose of one vehicle per year at no charge. KHON2.

Along with seat belt, cellphone and speeding violations, police are watching for adults smoking in vehicles occupied by children, as students go back to school this week. Maui News.

Maui’s largest private landowner, Alexander & Baldwin, is selling 313 acres adjacent to Kahului Airport to the state for $8.6 million and the Lahaina Square Shopping Center and adjacent parcels to an unnamed buyer for $11.3 million, the company said in announcing its second-quarter results last week. Maui News.

Kealii Reichel hopes to break ground on his halau’s permanent home in Piiholo next year, the kumu hula said Monday.  Maui News.

Kumu hula plans construction of permanent halau home on Maui next year. Associated Press.

Kauai

Holy Mackerel, With No Tourists In Sight The Fish Are Returning To Kauai’s North Shore. Local fishermen say the impact of the April storm on tourism has been a boon to the fish population. Civil Beat.

Ishihara opens under new ownership. The common concern among shoppers was the poke, and bento lunches, Tuesday when Ishihara Market reopened under the ownership of the Kalama Beach Corporation. Garden Island.

The median price of a single-family home on Kauai rose 11 percent last month, compared to a year ago, while the median price of a condominium in July jumped by more than 30 percent, according to statistics from Hawaii Information Service on behalf of the Kauai Board of Realtors. Pacific Business News.

Hurricane Hector coming closer, candidates make last-minute pitches, Makua Military Reservation must allow cultural access, monk seal Rocky rejects pup, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hurricane Hector on Tuesday, NOAA

Hurricane Hector is still churning closer to the Hawaiian islands on Tuesday as a powerful Category 4 storm to the southeast of Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

Hector weakened slightly overnight but remains a category 4 hurricane. Located 540 miles east-southeast of Hilo and 750 miles east-southeast of Honolulu, Hector was packing maximum sustained winds of 130 mph — a drop of 15 mph from Monday night — at 5 a.m. today, according to the National Weather Service. Star-Advertiser.

At 2 a.m. HST on Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018, the center of Hurricane Hector was located 585 miles ESE of Hilo, 670 miles ESE of Hana, Maui, and 705 miles ESE of Kahului, Maui (near latitude 15.9 North, longitude 147.1 West). Maui Now.

The National Weather Service on Monday posted a tropical storm watch for the Big Island as Hurricane Hector continued its trek toward Hawaii. Tribune-Herald.

A powerful hurricane expected to pass to the south of the state is forecast to bring dangerously large waves to east-facing shores of some islands starting Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

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Candidates debate energy, climate issues in last major public forum before primary election. With the primary election coming up this Saturday, candidates for governor, lieutenant governor, and congress tried one last time to set themselves apart from their opponents in the last major public forum before the primary. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii Republican Party’s Slow Path To Extinction. The GOP is unable to field candidates in a growing number of races — and that, worry experts, is a problem for democracy and government transparency. Civil Beat.

Hanabusa’s Legacy in Congress: From Military Spending To A Post Office In Kahala. In D.C., the Democratic candidate for governor prided herself on funneling military dollars to Hawaii and was a strong advocate for the fishing industry. Civil Beat.

Some Gabbard campaign material runs afoul of military ethics rules. The Hawaii Army National Guard has instructed Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard to take down or amend certain campaign material from her VoteTulsi Facebook page because it violates military ethics rules. Star-Advertiser.

Ad Watch: Governor, LG Wannabes Hone Their TV Pitches. The leading Democratic candidates sometimes shine in a series of mostly positive campaign commercials. Civil Beat.

Can non-citizens vote? Elections officials rely on affidavits to verify citizenship. In a state that values access to the ballot, Hawaii election officials pretty much take your word for it when you claim to be a U.S. citizen and thus are eligible to vote. West Hawaii Today.

Some OHA Candidates Continue To Spend Big On Their Campaigns. Sam King has the most cash on hand in the Oahu race, while Rowena Akana has the most in the at-large contest. Civil Beat.

Lanialoha Lee of the Aloha Center Chicago is helping to organize a demonstration at Aloha Poke Company's corporate office this Friday and a protest march on Monday. Activists call it cultural appropriation and believe it will be the first Native Hawaiian protest march in Chicago. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Nonprofit group Malama Makua is regaining cultural access to Makua Military Reservation, $80,000 in attorney fees and the Army’s agreement to address an unexploded ordnance stockpile with the settlement of a 2016 lawsuit against the Army. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Ponders How To Be More ‘Age-Friendly’. Oahu has the fastest-growing population of people 65 and older in the country. Civil Beat.

Super PAC Be Change Now Spends $62K to Oppose Honolulu City Councilmember Carol Fukunaga. An Independent Political Action Committee is financing a negative campaign against an incumbent Honolulu City Councilwoman. Hawaii Public Radio.

29th annual Hiroshima commemoration and peace service ceremony held on Oahu. KHON2.

Oahu’s housing market posted modest median price gains in July and again fell a little shy of setting any new records. The Honolulu Board of Realtors reported today that previously owned single-family homes sold for a median $789,500 last month, up 5.3 percent from $750,000 a year earlier. Star-Advertiser.

Box jellyfish force closure of Hanauma Bay. City officials have closed Hanauma Bay for the rest of the day after many people were stung by an influx of box jellyfish. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

The scientist-in-charge at Hawaiian Volcano Observatory said there “were some hints” the near cessation of seismic activity at Kilauea’s summit and drastic reduction of lava production by fissure 8 might happen. Tribune-Herald.

Although earthquakes decreased over the weekend, the majority of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, a top attraction for the state, remains closed due to damage and will not be reopening any time soon. Star-Advertiser.

Legislative candidates drain accounts as election nears. New money flowed into state House and Senate candidates’ campaign coffers last month, but for most candidates racing toward Saturday’s election, it was flowing out just as fast. West Hawaii Today.

Big Island grapples with lava, hurricane as election nears. As Hawaii readies for its primary elections, voters are grappling with an erupting volcano and Hurricane Hector. Associated Press.

Maui

Maui continues on record-setting pace for visitor arrivals. Maui island visitor arrivals are on pace to reach nearly 2.9 million visitors by year’s end, a milestone that would make 2018 the fourth straight record-breaking year for air travelers to the Valley Isle, according to statistics released this week by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Maui News.

Outrigger Hotels and Resorts recently acquired the Honua Kai Resort &Spa’s on-site resort rental program from affiliates of Alterra Mountain Co. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

Hanabusa sweeping state before primary. As four lanes of vehicles passed by Congresswoman Colleen Hanabusa and some of her supporters Monday afternoon, there was a lot of honking and waving and shouting. Garden Island.

‘I remember’. On Aug. 6, 1945, at 8:15 a.m., Hiroko Kunioka’s grandmother was in Hiroshima with her nephew. That was when the United States dropped the atomic bomb on Hiroshima. Garden Island.

Significant quantities of honey in the Garden Isle have tested positive for RoundUp, a popular herbicide used to kill weeds and plants, according to a recent study. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii Marine Animal Response team says Rocky the Hawaiian monk seal has rejected her three-week-old pup. Officials say the baby is malnourished but is stable and is being fed through tubes until it can eat on its own. KHON2.

The median price of a single-family home on Kauai rose 11 percent last month, compared to a year ago, while the median price of a condominium in July jumped by more than 30 percent, according to statistics from Hawaii Information Service on behalf of the Kauai Board of Realtors. Pacific Business News.