NOAA to survey coral reefs, lawmakers mull veto overrides, Honolulu rail project leaks leaders, Maui rejects affordable housing plan, names proposed for Fissure 8, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Coral reef with wrasse ©2019 All Hawaii News

NOAA To Assess Reefs for Coral Bleaching, Map Sea Floor. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration will set sail on the research vessel Oscar Elton Sette Tuesday to search the waters around the Hawaiian Islands for coral bleaching. Hawaii Public Radio.

Spikes in bacteria at Hawaii beaches raise concern. In this summer of record heat and rain, beachgoers might want to do a water-quality check before diving in. Star-Advertiser.

Legislative Leaders Counting Votes In Case They Try To Override Vetoes. There’s no solid plan for a special session Monday, but a Senate memo lists measures lawmakers may try to enact even if Gov. David Ige rejects them. Civil Beat.

Community activists urge governor to allow real estate tax bill to become law. Community activists paid Gov. David Ige a surprise visit at the State Capitol on Wednesday, urging him not veto a bill that would tax some of Hawaii’s largest landowners. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

‘It’s A Struggle’: Rail Project Loses More Top Deputies At A Crucial Time. Key personnel continue to leave the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation as rail construction nears its most critical crossroads. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Supreme Court Suspends Ex-Prosecutor's Law License. The Hawaii Supreme Court is suspending the law license of a former high-powered Honolulu prosecutor after a U.S. jury convicted her of conspiracy. Associated Press.

Katherine Kealoha mingles with fellow inmates at Federal Detention Center. Katherine Kealoha, the former deputy prosecutor- turned-convicted-felon, has been moved out of a segregated cell into the general population at the Federal Detention Center, where she has her Bible and rosary beads but still has not seen her husband, former Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha. Star-Advertiser.

Prosecutor’s Safe House For Abuse Victims To Close As Questions Swirl. The City Council cut funding for the facility, a favored project of the Honolulu prosecutor, and now it faces allegations of civil rights abuses from residents. Civil Beat.

City denies retaliating against safe house residents and workers. The city has retaliated against residents and employees of a controversial “safe house” for victims of domestic violence after they spoke to government investigators looking into public corruption, according to the American Civil Liberties Union and an attorney with knowledge of the situation. Star-Advertiser.

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Kawaiahao Church members try to right 27 desecrated graves. Nanette Napolean, historian and cemetery expert, guided Kawaiahao Church members and volunteers as they righted the heavy headstones toppled some time early Wednesday morning. Hawaii News Now.

Test finds E. coli bacteria in Windward Oahu drinking water source. On Wednesday, the Board of Water Supply announced that a drinking water sample from BWS Waihee Tunnel, which serves Windward Oahu from Kahana to Waimanalo, has tested positive for the presence of E. coli bacteria. Star-Advertiser.

Weather, increased enforcement may have sunk ‘Floatilla’. The Fourth of July “Floatilla” off Waikiki that caused major headaches for ocean safety officials in recent years failed to materialize Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

The deadline to submit possible names for fissure 8 has passed, with a total of 20 proposed monikers submitted. The state Board of Geographic Names began soliciting proposed names for fissure 8, one of the most prominent landmarks formed from the 2018 Kilauea eruption, from the general public last year.  Tribune-Herald.

The county is moving forward with plans for a popular Kona beach park, but there’s still a long road ahead. A month after the Department of Parks and Recreation set a May 31 deadline for comments on plans to implement preservation recommendations at Laaloa Beach Park, the agency said it’s now working to compile that data for the State Historic Preservation Division. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Island Veterans Memorial Chair Retires After 20 Years of Service. Reeve N. “Bob” Williams, Lt. Col, US Army retired, was presented a memorial plaque from the Board of Director’s at a dinner held June 22, 2019. Big Island Now.

Maui

Affordable project fails in committee. Councilors vote against Launiupoko developments with 96-workforce units. Maui News.

Schatz Discusses Climate Change, Appropriations at Maui Town Hall. US Senator Brian Schatz of Hawaii held a town hall meeting on Maui on Tuesday afternoon at Kahului Elementary School. Maui Now.

Kauai

Money for maintenance. With many of Hawaii’s most popular trails seeing record numbers of hikers, Hawaii Tourism is providing $530,000 to the DLNR Na Ala Hele Trail and Access System. Garden Island.

Mauna Loa volcano alert level raised, illegal firearm seizures soar, Ige signs prostitution protection bill, Kealoha lawyer quits, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hiking Mauna Loa ©2019 All Hawaii News

Federal officials raised the alert level Tuesday for the world’s largest active volcano, Mauna Loa on the Big Island, which last erupted in 1984. After Kilauea erupted last year, another Big Island volcano is experiencing 50 to 75 eruptions a week. Associated Press.

No cause for alarm despite Mauna Loa’s heightened alert level. Several months of small earthquakes and signs of magma movement underground at Mauna Loa prompted scientists Tuesday to raise the alert level by a notch for the massive volcano. Star-Advertiser.

HVO raises Mauna Loa alert level to “advisory”. Today’s increase in the Mauna Loa alert level — from “normal” to “advisory” — came just over one year after it was downgraded from advisory to normal in June 2018. Tribune-Herald.

Mauna Loa Volcano Alert Level Raised To YELLOW ADVISORY. The United States Geological Survey has raised the alert level for Mauna Loa, the largest active volcano on Earth. Big Island Video News.

Alert level increased to ‘advisory’ for Mauna Loa. Scientists have raised the alert level for Mauna Loa from normal to advisory. KHON2.

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Seizures of illegal firearms soar in Hawaii, feds say. U.S. law enforcement authorities Tuesday voiced concern about the dramatic increase in illegal firearms seized in Hawaii and the growing use of devices that can convert ordinary handguns into machine gun-like weapons. Star-Advertiser.

Authorities raise alarm about illegal use of gun conversion device in Hawaii. Federal officials are trying to crack down on criminals in Hawaii using a device that turns a semi-automatic handgun into a fully automatic weapon. Hawaii News Now.

Local Police and federal agents work to stop the use of illegal guns in Hawaii. The Project Safe Neighborhood brings all levels of law enforcement together for one goal. KHON2.

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Hawaii becomes first state with protections for those convicted of prostitution. Hawaii’s laws against sex trafficking victims eased slightly with the signing of SB1039 Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

Ige Signs First-In-Nation Law On Clearing Prostitution Convictions. The bill removes a requirement that a person be a victim of sex trafficking to have a prostitution conviction erased. Associated Press.

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Hawaii lawmakers, others urge passage of asset forfeiture bill. State Rep. Joy San Buenaventura of Puna said Tuesday civil asset forfeiture reform legislation she sponsored is in response to “innocent people whose property was seized because of legalized theft by the government.” Tribune-Herald.

Debates Over, But Gabbard’s Poll Numbers Still Dismal. Sens. Harris and Warren, meanwhile, see big gains while Biden’s popularity drops. Civil Beat.

HPD launches murder investigation into a deadly shooting of an OCCC inmate. The Honolulu Police Department is now conducting a murder investigation into the shooting death of an Oahu Community Correctional Center inmate in March. It’s the second murder investigation involving a shooting by a Department of Public Safety officer. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Kealoha attorney withdraws, citing ‘irretrievable breakdown in the attorney-client relationship’. Katherine Kealoha’s court-appointed attorney today asked to be removed from defending Kealoha, citing “an irretrievable breakdown in the attorney-client relationship, which cannot be reconciled.” Star-Advertiser.

Attorney Cites Ethical Concerns In Motion To Drop Katherine Kealoha As Client. Cynthia Kagiwada says she no longer wants to represent the former city prosecutor, who was convicted and incarcerated last week but faces additional charges. Civil Beat.

Katherine Kealoha’s attorney cites ethical issue in request to withdraw as counsel.  Citing an “irretrievable breakdown” in their relationship, and a state rule of professional conduct, court-appointed defense attorney Cynthia Kagiwada is seeking to withdraw as Katherine Kealoha’s counsel. Hawaii News Now.

Katherine Kealoha’s attorney has filed to withdraw as her counsel. KHON2.

Louis Kealoha likely to find it hard to visit wife in prison. Convicted former Police Chief Louis Kealoha likely will find it difficult to visit his wife in federal prison, where former Deputy Prosecutor Katherine Kealoha is awaiting sentencing after the couple and two Honolulu Police Department officers were found guilty last week on corruption and obstruction charges. Star-Advertiser.

Prosecutor’s Safe House For Abuse Victims To Close As Questions Swirl. The City Council cut funding for the facility, a favored project of the Honolulu prosecutor, and now it faces allegations of civil rights abuses from residents. Civil Beat.

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Honolulu Watches As California Cities Challenge Utility, Push Renewable Electricity. Both Hawaii and California share a goal of generating 100 percent renewable electricity by 2045, and the success of some California cities in meeting that goal ahead of schedule via CCA has generated some interest in Hawaii. Hawaii Public Radio.

Bulky item mountains line the streets, but city still calls appointment-based system a ‘success’. From a littered landscape in Liliha to piles of bulky trash in Kalihi, residents are crying foul over the city’s one-month-old appointment-based bulky pickup pilot from Foster Village to East Honolulu. Hawaii News Now.

Barriers added to protect King Kamehameha III’s Nuuanu summer palace. In Nuuanu, the state has made a few changes to protect King Kamehameha III summer palace after several acts of vandalism in recent years. KHON2.

No trespassing at Kamehameha summer palace. The Department of Land and Natural Resources is adding barriers around Kaniakapupu Ruins, also known as King Kamehameha's Summer Palace. The 175-years-old ruins have been trespassed and vandalized multiple times in recent years. KITV.

Safety upgrades planned for Manoa Falls Trail. For nearly two decades the Honolulu Fire Department has identified the upper portion of the Manoa Falls Trail as a hotbed for hiker injury. Star-Advertiser.

Group rallies to reopen well-known Haiku Stairs. It’s now or never, according to Friends of Haiku Stairs, a nonprofit that has been advocating for years to save the Stairway to Heaven. Star-Advertiser.

City seeks public comment regarding fate of Haiku Stairs. A decision over what to do with one of Hawaii's most well-known trails is just a few steps away. KITV.

Hawaii Island

UH-Hilo welcomes new chancellor. With drums, dance, laughs and lei, dozens gathered Tuesday morning at the University of Hawaii at Hilo for kipaepae ceremonies to celebrate the arrival of new Chancellor Bonnie Irwin and bid farewell to Interim Chancellor Marcia Sakai. Tribune-Herald.

Ceremony Honors Incoming, Outgoing UH-Hilo Chancellors. A traditional Native Hawaiian appointment ceremony was held for Chancellor Bonnie D. Irwin, whose first day on the job was July 1, 2019. Big Island Video News.

Sayres donate firetruck – gifting ceremony Saturday in Waimea. Over the years, the Daniel R. Sayre Foundation has donated ATVs, lifeguard PA systems, jaws of life, Billy Pugh nets and all kinds of other life-saving equipment. Now it’s donating a firetruck. West Hawaii Today.

Maui
Budget director: Maui County is able to pay bills. Crew worked over weekend; council budget reports still under review. Maui News.

Rapid Ohia Death Confirmed in Single Tree on Maui. Ceratocystis huliohia, the less aggressive strain of the fungal disease called Rapid Ohia Death was recently detected in a single tree on private property in East Maui, according to new information released today by the Department of Land and Natural Resources. Maui Now.

Fungus responsible for killing ohia trees spreads to Maui in first confirmed case. Rapid Ohia Death fungus is spreading — and according to the Department of Land and Natural Resources, it’s now on the Valley Isle. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

King tides bring new sand. The King tides are supposed to peak July 2 and 3, but the effects were already being felt days prior at the Salt Pond Beach Park. Garden Island.

State seeks Airbnb records, nation's mayors visit Honolulu homeless, health department visiting Kauai homes, Molokai battles over water rights, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki king tides UH sea college grant program July 2017

It’s that time of year again. Another round of king tides will return to Hawaii shores this week. Scientists said the king tides will arrive on Tuesday and Wednesday — and they’re expected to peak between 3 to 5 p.m. both days. Hawaii News Now.

State again seeks to subpoena Airbnb records. The state Department of Taxation is again asking a judge for permission to force vacation rental giant Airbnb Inc. to turn over the booking records of operators in Hawaii who advertise with them. Star-Advertiser.

Bipartisan policy at 87th Conference of Mayors. Honolulu's Democratic Mayor Kirk Caldwell drew inspiration from Miami's Republican Mayor Francis Suarez's strategy for dealing with rising sea levels. KITV.

Mayors from across the nation take a peek at how the city is working to solve homelessness. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell was joined by other mayors from across the country Monday in examining a solution to homelessness. Hawaii News Now.

Experts warn of worsening fire conditions in Hawaii. Because of climate change, Hawaii’s wildfire season, previously confined to the summer months, is now year-round — which means the islands likely will see more wildfires. Tribune-Herald.

What Will It Take To Make Hawaii A Player In eSports? Cities around the world are holding eSports tournaments, hoping to attract younger visitors and become major destinations for the industry. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Deputy Investigated For Murder In Capitol Shooting. Delmar Espejo, 28, died of a gunshot wound to the back, an autopsy report said. Associated Press.

Oahu

Taxpayers Shouldn’t Expect Louis Kealoha To Pay Them Back Anytime Soon. The Honolulu Police Commission gave the former chief a retirement payment of $250,000 after he was named as the target of a federal criminal investigation. Civil Beat.

After guilty verdict, state moves to prevent Katherine Kealoha from practicing law.  Katherine Kealoha is behind bars after being found guilty in one of the state’s biggest public corruption cases. But technically, she could still practice law. Hawaii News Now.

Disciplinary counsel files to block Kealoha’s law license. KHON2.

Attorney says Katherine Kealoha needs surgery. Attorney Earle Partington visited Katherine Kealoha the day after she was placed in custody. KHON2.

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A place with 'so much local charm’ is razed to make way for a luxury tower in Waikiki. What was once a gathering place for many local families will now become a 32-story luxury tower. Those familiar with the area are used to seeing an iconic shopping center called King’s Village. Hawaii News Now.

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Pali repair work is extended 3 months. Emergency repair work on Pali Highway following February’s rockslides will continue three months longer than originally anticipated, until the end of November, state officials said. Star-Advertiser.

DOT Gives Update On Pali Highway Repairs With Completion Pushed To November. Civil Beat.

Pali Highway repairs to continue until November. Repairs to the Pali Highway will continue through November. Crews will continue repairs along the busy highway 12 hours a day, 7 days a week. KITV.

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Proposed Housing Development Gets A Rough Reception In Kaneohe. Honolulu City Council Chairman Ikaika Anderson, who represents the area, was harshly criticized for initially supporting the eight-home project. Civil Beat.

Board of Water Supply to increase the price of water based on meter size. Over the next five years customers will see gradual changes reflected on their bills. KITV.

Officials discourage floating, drinking on July 4. What has become the notorious July Fourth “Floatilla” off Waikiki has prompted early warnings from local officials hoping to discourage a large turnout and drinking in the water as a way to celebrate. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu radio acquisition creates statewide network for Pacific Media Group. Chuck Bergson, president, CEO and majority owner of Pacific Media Group, said the acquisitions cap what has been a 20-year vision for the company. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Safer days at Kua Bay: Lifeguards begin manning popular North Kona beach. Lifeguards are now patrolling the water at the popular, yet perilous Kua Bay. West Hawaii Today.

Leilani Estates Community Association exploring ways to curb tourist access to subdivision. Almost a year after the end of liquid lava in lower Puna, Leilani Estates continues to wrestle with packs of tourists attracted to the vestiges of last year’s Kilauea eruption. Tribune-Herald.

Council resolution seeks Bank of America cooperation on DHHL loans. A decades-old dispute over $150 million in home loans for Native Hawaiians has captured the attention of two Hawaii County councilwomen, who have sponsored a nonbinding resolution supporting Gov. David Ige’s attempts to bring Bank of America back to the bargaining table. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Sugimura Proposes Investigative Review of Water Resources for Upcountry Maui. Councilmember Yuki Lei Sugimura is requesting an exploration of options relating to East Maui water resources to ensure reliable water delivery for some 37,000 Upcountry water users. Maui Now.


State seeks input on plan for disadvantaged business enterprises. Maui meeting set for July 10. Maui News.


Kauai

DOH taking survey of residents readiness. The Kauai District Health Office of the Hawaii Department of Health will be conducting a door-to-door survey of Kauai residents from July 11 to 13 to assess their readiness for emergencies such as hurricanes, floods and other disasters. Garden Island.

Prosecutors try to seize $140,000. The Kauai County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office is asking for court approval to seize roughly $140,000 in cash that police allegedly confiscated during a drug raid in Koloa two years ago. Garden Island.

King tides are here. King tides have returned, triggering flooding at Nawiliwili on Monday afternoon. Garden Island.

Molokai

Activists demand water diverted for Molokai Ranch be restored. Molokai Ranch has been diverting water for nearly 100 years from central Molokai to its land on the west side of the island. Hawaii News Now.

New state and county laws kick in on crosswalks, polystyrene, Waikiki mayor's conference draws big names, Maui mayor and council spar over budget, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki shoppers on crosswalk ©2019 All Hawaii News

New crosswalk law takes effect today. A slate of new laws takes effect today on the first day of the new state fiscal year, including one that might startle some pedestrians: Senate Bill 693 makes it quite clear you can be fined for entering a crosswalk once the pedestrian countdown timer has started running. Star-Advertiser.

Improvements Made To Hawaii Capitol Website. They include the addition of Session Laws of Hawaii going back to statehood. Civil Beat.

DOE seeking feedback on public education for the next decade. The State Department of Education proposed a new 10 year strategic plan for the state's public school system called the 2030 Promise. KITV.

Hawaii inmate data tracking system review costs near $1.4M, takes 4 years. After paying a company close to $1.4 million over four years to evaluate its data needs and recommend a replacement for its software system for tracking and managing information on inmates, Hawaii’s Department of Public Safety has yet to replace the system. Star-Advertiser.

Ige Names New Budget And Finance Director. Neal Miyahira worked at the Department of Taxation as deputy director. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s Medical Aid In Dying Law Eased Patient’s Anxiety. Steve Johnson was the second person to die under the state’s new assisted suicide law. The state reports eight patients so far have received prescriptions for lethal drugs. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Hospital Dispute Could Prove Costly For Patients. Kaiser recently filed a federal lawsuit against Queen’s after the two sides failed to negotiate a payment rate for emergency services.  Civil Beat.

Feds may take lead on future missile alerts. U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz’s attempt to give the federal government responsibility for alerting the public of a missile threat was passed by the U.S. Senate as part of a $750 billion National Defense Authorization Act for 2020 that focuses on evolving threats from China, Russia, North Korea and Iran. Star-Advertiser.

Second Lady Pence, Caroline Kennedy among notable speakers at national mayor conference. When the United States Conference of Mayors last met in Honolulu in 1963, President John F. Kennedy was the featured speaker. Today, it was Caroline Kennedy’s turn. Hawaii News Now.

Gabbard says missile alert mistake motivated her to run for presidency. U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard said Sunday that Hawaii’s 2018 false missile alert motivated her to run for president in 2020. Star-Advertiser.

Gabbard addresses mayors conference, says foreign policy affects cities. Hawaii Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard made her first trip back to the islands since appearing in the first Democratic presidential candidates debate last Wednesday, addressing the annual U.S. Conference of Mayors in Waikiki. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Kealoha verdicts highlight need for ethical leaders in law enforcement. The felony convictions of the retired police chief, his once high-ranking prosecutor wife and two officers picked by the chief for a secretive squad he supervised exposed gaps in the oversight of the law enforcement system but mostly are a reflection of dishonest individuals holding positions of power, according to attorneys, former judges and others. Star-Advertiser.

Katherine Kealoha Is Sent To Jail Until Sentencing. A federal judge revoked her bail Friday after she was found guilty of federal conspiracy and obstruction charges. Civil Beat.

Owner-built houses at Waianae subdivision nearly finished. On a hillside in Waianae with picturesque views of Pokai Bay, a dozen families have expelled a lot of sweat building their own homes for more than a year. Star-Advertiser.

Navatek II fails to sell at auction. The state Department of Land and Natural Resources impounded the vessel in March after owner Miraclei LLC, a trust that includes Shane Lawler, maxed out the Navatek II’s temporary permit at the Ala Wai Small Boat Harbor. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Inside island’s hydrogen future: Researchers at Rogers’ Puu Waawaa ranch explore top energy solutions. Tucked among the old-time paniolo ranches in North Kona is a cutting-edge ranch of a different kind. West Hawaii Today.

‘Vision Zero’ program aims to reduce traffic fatalities. Gov. David Ige passed a bill this week codifying a policy to eliminate traffic fatalities statewide through better traffic engineering and emergency response strategies. Star-Advertiser.

The Big Island’s ban on polystyrene — or Styrofoam — food containers goes into effect on Monday. That means all food service vendors — meaning restaurants, food trucks, farmer’s markets — as well as supermarkets will no longer be able to serve takeout or plate lunches in single-use containers made from polystyrene foam. Hawaii News Now.

Group from Micronesia explores possibilities of aquaculture. Fisheries officers from Kosrae, Micronesia, recently toured the University of Hawaii at Hilo’s Pacific Aquaculture and Coastal Resources Center to learn more about aquaculture efforts in Hawaii. Tribune-Herald.

UH-Hilo, Navy using oysters to boost water quality. On a recent sunny morning at the University of Hawaii at Hilo’s Pacific Aquaculture and Coastal Resources Center in Keaukaha, research manager Daniel Wilkie showed off a spat of small but growing oysters, each not much bigger than a pebble. Tribune-Herald.

As Mauna Kea Conflict Looms, Both Sides Dispute Information. State officials and opponents of the Thirty Meter Telescope project went back and forth Friday, disputing each other’s information regarding the response to the situation on Mauna Kea. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Mayor gets council’s budget details at last minute. There still could be issues with information provided, according to administration officials. Maui News.

Potential Water Outages in Waikapu, Kehalani Mauka & Upper Wailuku Heights. The Department of Water Supply continues to experience very high consumption in the Waikapu/Wailuku area and Department of Water Supply water tanks are being depleted. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kauai police investigate alleged cheating, cover-up in ranks. Police on Kauai investigated allegations officers were involved in cheating on a proficiency test and covering it up, a report said. Associated Press.

Last native lowland bog ‘thriving’. A flesh-eating plant stretches sticky fuchsia tentacles into the balmy air of Kauai’s Kanaele Bog. Garden Island.

Kealoha power couple found guilty in conspiracy trial, new law blocks firearms for emotionally unstable, tourism up but spending down, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Katherine and Louis Kealoha, from Facebook

Kealohas are found guilty on all counts of conspiracy and obstruction. Honolulu’s former Police Chief Louis Kealoha and his wife, former Deputy Prosecutor Katherine Kealoha, once trusted leaders of the city’s law enforcement system, were found guilty Thursday of using their positions and power to frame a family member and enrich themselves. Star-Advertiser.

Kealohas, 2 Honolulu officers found guilty of conspiracy in massive public corruption trial. After deliberating for less than nine hours, a jury of seven men and five women found former law enforcement power couple Louis and Katherine Kealoha guilty Thursday of conspiracy and other counts in one of Hawaii’s most closely-watched public corruption trials. Hawaii News Now.

Jury Convicts Kealohas And 2 HPD Officers Of Conspiracy. Honolulu’s former police chief and his prosecutor wife, along with two police officers, were found guilty Thursday in one of the biggest corruption cases in Hawaii history. Civil Beat.

Verdict In: Louis and Katherine Kealoha Guilty In Corruption Case. A jury has found a former Honolulu prosecutor and her now-retired police chief husband guilty in a plot to frame a relative to silence him from revealing fraud that financed their lavish lifestyle, a case that shook the top levels of law enforcement. Associated Press.

Jury finds Kealohas guilty of conspiracy in Kealoha Trial, KHON2.

Jury finds Katherine and Louis Kealoha guilty of conspiracy. A verdict has been reached in the Kealoha corruption trial. KITV.

Here’s why prosecutors want Katherine Kealoha behind bars as she awaits sentencing. In a strongly-worded brief Thursday, the government argued newly-convicted felon Katherine Kealoha should be placed in custody immediately as she awaits sentencing this fall. Hawaii News Now.

Reaction pours in after Kealoha guilty verdicts. Star-Advertiser.

Verdicts help restore faith in the system, many say. The quick guilty verdicts in one of the state’s largest public corruption trials brought a wide range of reaction Thursday, with some saying the case underscored the inability of local officials to police themselves. Star-Advertiser.

Legal troubles not over for Kealohas. Thursday’s verdict is not the end of the legal troubles for Louis and Katherine Kealoha. The couple faces two more trials. Star-Advertiser.

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Gov. David Ige has approved a new law that enables family members, co-workers or police to obtain court orders blocking access to firearms for people who show signs they could pose a danger to themselves or others. Star-Advertiser.

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State Auditor Dings DLNR’s Special Land Fund. Absence of long-range planning leaves staff without “expertise, resources, and options” to effectively manage portfolio. Civil Beat.

Audit: DLNR mismanaged state land. A division of the state Department of Land and Natural Resources responsible for millions of acres of state-owned property is being run without coherent policies or guidelines by a staff that is incompetent to the point that it misunderstands its own funding, according to a report released Thursday by the Hawaii State Auditor. Garden Island.

Audit conducted of DLNR's Special Land Development Fund. The Hawaii State Auditor says, "absence of long-range planning has left the Land Division staff without the expertise, resources, and options to actively and effectively manage its land portfolio." KITV.

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More tourists visit Hawaii but they spend less. May marked the seventh month in a row that more visitors came to Hawaii than in the previous year while creating less economic benefit. Star-Advertiser.

Disappointing declines in visitor spending continue in May. The takeaway from May’s tourism numbers was a familiar one: Visitors came in droves but spent less on average. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii visitor statistics released for May 2019. Visitors to the Hawaiian Islands spent a total of $1.39 billion in May 2019, a decrease of 2.1% compared to the same month last year, according HTA. KITV.

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Mayors at summit in Honolulu commit to electric vehicles. Dozens of mayors gathered in front of an electric bus at the University of Hawaii-Manoa campus Thursday to announce a collaborative commitment to purchasing electric vehicles for their city fleets. Star-Advertiser.

Filling A ‘Massive’ Need To Provide Glasses For Hawaii’s Kids. The state law requiring regular hearing and vision screening has been ignored for nearly 25 years, leaving nonprofits to cover at least part of the gap. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Kym Pine: ‘Strongly Considering’ Running For Mayor. The Honolulu City Councilwoman is reaching out for support and donations. Civil Beat.

Following a recent trip to Singapore, State Senator Stanley Chang remains committed to adapting the island nation’s public housing model for Hawaii. The idea, which would use state land along the planned Honolulu rail transit line, aims to build low-cost, high density, residential developments. Hawaii Public Radio.

Ward Village developer Howard Hughes Corp. considers shake-up and sale. The Ward Village community in Kakaako could see a new master developer under a possible shake-up of Howard Hughes Corp. Star-Advertiser.

State to charge for street parking next to Kalihi school. People have been parking on a side street in Kalihi for a number of years. Now the state will be charging them for it. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Salary Commission weighs pay hikes, other incentives to keep top officials. The county Salary Commission is considering bonuses as one way to attract quality candidates to head county departments. West Hawaii Today.

Will This Year’s Confrontation At Mauna Kea Become Hawaii’s Standing Rock? Protestors say they’ll remain nonviolent, but fear the state and county’s response to their planned activism. Civil Beat.

Mauna Kea Land Set Aside Draws DU, Land Title Concerns. A public hearing was held on a proposal to withdraw lands in the Mauna Kea Forest Reserve and set aside to the County of Hawaii and the DOT. Big Island Video News.

AC installation for dorm moves forward. The University of Hawaii at Hilo’s newest dormitory, Hale Alahonua, is closer to being cooler with the upcoming installation of an air conditioning system. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui traffic livestreamed. Real-time traffic cameras installed at 10 intersections. Maui drivers won’t have to guess about travel times on some state highways with new real-time traffic monitoring cameras going up at 10 state roadway intersections. Maui News.

Mayor prepares to release housing plan. Mayor Michael Victorino declared Wednesday that there’s a dire need for housing units in Maui County and that all options are open as his administration is poised to present its Strategic Housing Plan to the Maui County Council. Maui News.

Shoreline access pact reached with Napili condos. Lawsuits claim trails not being maintained per permits. Community groups who sued three condominium complexes over beach access have reached a settlement with the final two condos that will restore a public access trail to the Napili shoreline. Maui News.

Settlement Reached to Restore Beach Access at Honokowai. Maui Now.

Kauai

A new deal. There is a new collective bargaining agreement for Kauai firefighters through 2021 as the Kauai County Council passed a bill that will usher in a new area for first responders with a 5-2 vote Wednesday during the council meeting at the Historic County Building. Garden Island.

All-mail voting to start next year, Hawaii's Gabbard on national stage, Hawaiian Airlines flight attendants picket, 220 mayors coming to Waikiki conference, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Voting at the polls ©2019 All Hawaii News

Ige Signs All-Mail Voting, Automatic Recount Bills. The two voting reform measures were a top priority for the Legislature this year. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Opts for Voting by Mail. Hawaii becomes the fourth state to move to all-mail balloting in an effort to improve turnout. U.S. News & World Report.

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Law adds third gender option for Hawaii driver’s licenses. Hawaii residents will be able to choose a nonbinary gender designation — neither exclusively male nor exclusively female — for their driver’s license starting July 2020. Star-Advertiser.

New state law allows third gender designation on driver’s licenses, IDs. Gov. David Ige on Wednesday signed House Bill 1165, legislation that expands the gender options beyond “male” or “female” on the state-issued IDs. Tribune-Herald.

New Law Will Cover All Teachers’ License Fees. Act 116 provides $1.3 million in annual funding to the Hawaii Teacher Standards Board, the licensing entity for Hawaii educators. Civil Beat.

Measure requires restaurants to offer healthy drink options as default choice for keiki meals. Among three health-related bills Gov. David Ige signed Tuesday was Senate Bill 549, which requires restaurants to offer healthy beverages as a default choice for drinks automatically included as part of a children’s meal. Tribune-Herald.

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In debate, Gabbard again keys on anti-war message. U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard again issued her dire warning of a new war looming in the Middle East during her first national prime-time debate with nine of the other Democratic presidential candidates on Wednesday, and her campaign issued a bulletin criticizing the format of the forum even before it was over. Star-Advertiser.

Gabbard Sticks To Her Talking Points In First Presidential Debate. On a crowded podium with nine other Democratic candidates, the Hawaii congresswoman got a limited amount of speaking time. Civil Beat.

How did Hawaii’s Tulsi Gabbard hold up during the debate? These numbers gave a glimpse. Hawaii Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard took to the national stage Wednesday in a live televised debate against half of the leading democratic candidates for president. Hawaii News Now.

1st Democratic Debate: Live Analysis Of Night 1. Twenty candidates have made it to the first round of Democratic primary debates. Hawaii Public Radio.

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220 mayors to attend conference in Waikiki. More than 220 mayors from across the United States will gather at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort this weekend to share ideas about how to make their cities better. Star-Advertiser.

Mainland Mayors Face Backlash For Business Trip To Honolulu. The criticism highlights a longstanding perception problem Hawaii has in attracting conferences and conventions. Civil Beat.

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Hawaiian Airlines flight attendants hold first major union protest in 20 years. At least a couple of hundred Hawaiian Airlines flight attendants on Wednesday held their first major Hawaii labor demonstration in nearly 20 years to protest protracted negotiations over a new contract. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines flight attendants hit the picket lines at HNL. The flight attendants have been in contract negotiations with the airlines for over two years now. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiian Airlines flight attendants picket at HNL airport. According to Hawaiian Airlines flight attendants, if they don't get a raise soon, their company can expect a strike. KITV.

Hawaii’s Longliners Could Soon Be Allowed To Catch 18 Million Pounds Of Tuna. Federal fishery managers recommended significantly increasing the amount of ahi that the fleet can catch. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Jury starts deliberations in Kealoha corruption case. After listening to 16 days of testimony from 71 witnesses and three days of closing and rebuttal arguments by the lawyers, the 12-person jury in one of the largest public corruption cases in the state’s history began deliberations Wednesday afternoon. Star-Advertiser.

Kealoha Conspiracy Trial Is Now In The Hands Of The Jury. Closing arguments in one of the most highly-publicized criminal trials in Hawaii history concluded Wednesday. Civil Beat.

Jury Begins Deliberating In Hawaii's Biggest Corruption Case. A Hawaii corruption case alleging a former police chief and his wife conspired to frame a man is now in the hands of a jury. Associated Press.

With closing arguments complete, jurors in Kealoha ‘mailbox trial’ begin deliberations. Closing arguments in the closely-watched public corruption case against the Kealohas wrapped up Wednesday, and the case is now in the hands of jurors. Hawaii News Now.

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Hawaii Supreme Court: Boards Must Prove Privacy Interest To Close Meetings. The court ruled in favor of the Civil Beat Law Center on a case involving the Honolulu Police Commission’s actions. Civil Beat.

Hawaii AG: Rehab Center Ignored Promised Reforms For 2 Years. The director of Sand Island Treatment Center reportedly did not pay back part of his excessive salary for two years because he was “distracted.” Civil Beat.

Lawsuit alleges child abuse, cover-up at Kroc Center in Kapolei. The parents of a former preschool student on Oahu have sued the Kroc Center and at least one former teacher at the institution over allegations of child neglect and physical abuse. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu spa suspected of promoting prostitution raided. A massage parlor suspected of promoting prostitution was raided Wednesday morning. Hawaii News Now.

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Beth Chapman, one half of world-famous bounty hunting duo, dies in Honolulu. Hawaii News Now.

Beth Chapman, reality TV star and Hawaii bounty hunter, dies after long battle with cancer. Star-Advertiser.


“You can fight to have a little extra time,” Beth Chapman, 51, passes after battle with cancer. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

TMT NPDES Permit Hearing In Kona. All testifiers spoke in opposition to the Thirty Meter Telescope storm water discharge permit renewal and requested a contested case hearing. Big Island Video News.

UH says it reached out to protesters before ahu were removed at TMT site. The rapid removal of two ahu at the Thirty Meter Telescope site on Maunakea last week came after years of failed attempts at communication between the University of Hawaii and TMT protesters. Tribune-Herald.

Future Of Hilo Landfill Site Discussed. The process of closing the South Hilo Sanitary Landfill and monitoring it for decades after was talked about at a public meeting on June 26. Big Island Video News.

EA contract signed for Kealakehe Regional Park. County Department of Parks and Recreation deputy director Maurice Messina said on Wednesday that a $195,300 contract with PBR Hawaii and Associates has been inked, although he didn’t have a timeline for the preparation of the assessment itself. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Mayor Provides Update on Maui Housing, Puts Illegal Short Term Rentals “On Notice”. Maui Mayor Michael Victorino is holding a press conference this morning to discuss housing efforts being carried out by the County of Maui. Maui Now.

Maui Mayor plans to crackdown on illegal vacation rentals. KHON2.

Housing panel concerned with a lack of water. Facing questions about the lack of water in Launiupoko, consultants for two proposed housing projects said Tuesday that recent shortages are due to the ongoing transition from surface to groundwater, and that wells in the area would be enough to cover the needs of the new communities. Maui News.

Maui News switching to 6-day newspaper. Saturday, July 6, marks a new chapter for The Maui News as readers will experience a brand-new edition called The Weekender. Maui News.

Kauai

Hope for Courtyards at Waipouli. The County Council heard emotional public testimony from two residents of the Courtyards at Waipouli Apartments about a resolution by the council supporting efforts towards preserving the affordability restrictions and the potential acquisition of the 82-unit property before Aug. 19, when a 10-year affordability contract with the county expires. Garden Island.

KIUC to issue patronage capital credits. Kauai Island Utility Cooperative will begin issuing $2.5 million in 2018 patronage capital retirement bill credits to cooperative members this month. Garden Island.

Hawaii to ban 'gay panic' defense, allow 'Gender X,' herbicides banned at schools, Honolulu hires criminal defense in rail probe, Karen Pence to visit military families, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii gay pride parade ©2019 All Hawaii News

Hawaii to Become 6th State to Ban “Gay Panic” as Affirmative Defense for Murder. Hawaii's lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, intersex, and asexual community is awaiting the governor’s signature on bills, that when signed into law today, will advance rights and protections of those who identify as such. Maui Now.

Gov. Ige to sign bill allowing ‘Gender X’ on Hawaii driver licenses. In an effort to reduce discrimination against transgender and gender fluid individuals, Hawaii driver licenses will soon sport ‘Gender X’ as an option. Hawaii News Now.

Bill to add more gender categories on Hawaii driver’s licenses to be signed into law. A bill to expand gender categories on Hawaii driver’s licenses will be signed into law today. KHON2.

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Herbicides banned on Hawaii public school campuses, superintendent says. Superintendent Christina Kishimoto, after hearing that Roundup was being used on some campuses, sent a memo Tuesday to all principals stressing that herbicides are banned at Hawaii public schools. Star-Advertiser.

Vague guidelines on pesticide use at schools has community calling for change. Parents alongside concerned members of the the community are challenging school officials over the chemicals being used to kill weeds on campus. Hawaii News Now.

Two mothers are suing the Hawaii Department of Public Safety on behalf of their children, over what their lawsuit describes as “repeated and deliberate indifference towards the safety and well-being of inmates with serious mental health issues.” Garden Island.

More than 1,000 pieces of stolen mail found in late postal worker’s storage unit. In an email confirming the discovery, the USPS said there were about 1,000 pieces of stolen mail from about 13 to 15 years ago, along with roughly 11,000 USPS Return Receipt post cards. Hawaii News Now.

Karen Pence visits Hawaii. The Second Lady will speak to military families to highlight the Blue Star Museum program, which she serves as honorary co-chair. KHON2.

Oahu

Mayor Caldwell signs vacation rental policy bill. It took roughly three decades, but the city now has a broad-ranging policy regulating vacation rentals. Star-Advertiser.

City Will Use ‘Digital Stings’ To Nab Illegal Vacation Rentals Starting Aug. 1. But the full effect of Oahu’s new law severely limiting Airbnb-type rentals and imposing stiff fines on violators won’t start until late 2020. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Mayor Signs Measure To Regulate Short-Term Rentals. Mayor Kirk Caldwell vetoed one short-term rental measure and signed another that will restrict the operation of the rentals on Oahu. Hawaii Public Radio.

Caldwell signs ‘historic’ bill regulating vacation rental industry on Oahu. Mayor Kirk Caldwell signed a bill into law on Tuesday that will enact some of the toughest new regulations for Oahu’s vacation rental industry in nearly 40 years. Hawaii News Now.

Mayor Caldwell signs vacation rentals bill 89, vetoes bill 85. The mayor signed the bill at a press conference at Honolulu Hale on Tuesday. KITV.

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City hiring lawyer to address rail subpoenas. The city is hiring an outside attorney to help handle issues related to a federal criminal investigation of the Honolulu rail project, and has budgeted up to $50,000 to cover the cost of that legal work. Star-Advertiser.

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Closing arguments in Kealoha corruption trial begin. Prosecutors have said Katherine Kealoha wanted to frame Gerard Puana to keep him from revealing fraud that financed the couple's lavish lifestyle. KITV.

The Kealoha conspiracy case is a story of “greed and manipulation,” a federal prosecutor says. Lawyers for the two remaining defendants, Nguyen and Shiraishi, are scheduled to give their closings this morning; then the government gets the last word with rebuttal remarks. Star-Advertiser.

Kealoha Conspiracy Trial: ‘Power, Greed And Manipulation’. Closing arguments began Tuesday in the trial of Louis and Katherine Kealoha and three Honolulu police officers. Civil Beat.

Defense calls government’s allegations in Kealoha mailbox trial ‘imagination’. In fiery closing arguments Tuesday, a federal prosecutor in the closely-watched public corruption case against the Kealohas told jurors that the case isn’t about a mailbox but about why the defendants would try to frame a Kealoha relative with its theft. Hawaii News Now.

30 HPD Officers Assigned to Watch Kealohas' Relative, Prosecutor Says In Closing Arguments. A U.S. prosecutor says 30 Honolulu police officers conducted 24-hour surveillance on the uncle of former deputy prosecutor Katherine Kealoha the week she claimed he stole her mailbox in 2013. Associated Press.

Hawaii Island

E. Kalani Flores testified in opposition to the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit renewal for the Thirty Meter Telescope construction on Mauna Kea, one of many to speak out at a public hearing held Tuesday night in Kona. Big Island Video News.

Kailua-Kona’s first medical marijuana dispensary opens Sunday. Hawaiian Ethos, one of only two businesses licensed to sell medical marijuana products on the Big Island, plans a grand opening celebration Sunday at its Olowalu Street dispensary in the Kaloko Light Industrial Area. West Hawaii Today.

Island’s two major well-diggers have work galore. The Big Island’s two major well-drillers continue to ask for more time to complete their projects, even as new contracts are awarded to them. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Final EIS released for Pulehunui master plan. Plan outlines water, wastewater, roads for major state projects. Maui News.

Maui Bus to Reduce Fares for Seniors, Disabled and Others, July 1. The County of Maui Department of Transportation announced that beginning Monday, July 1, 2019, the Maui Bus is implementing reduced single boarding fares of $1.00 for fixed route service. Maui Now.

Kauai

Hundreds rally for salt ponds. A Kauai County Planning Commission meeting drew a crowd of well over a hundred local residents, who showed up at the county government building in Lihue on Tuesday morning to speak on behalf of their culture, their heritage, their land and their salt. Garden Island.

Ige may veto vacation rental, REIT taxes, lets marijuana decriminalization bill stand, NTSB dings FAA for lax skydiving regulations, the future of Haiku Stairs, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Ige announces potential vetoes PC:Governor's Office

Gov. David Ige's full veto list and rationale. Governor's Office.

Ige Set To Veto $56 Million In New Taxes On Real Estate Trusts And Vacation Rentals. But bills to decriminalize the use of pot, allow mail-in balloting, create a new state prison oversight commission and provide funds to replace aging Aloha Stadium will all become law. Civil Beat.

Tax bills for vacation rentals and REITs among items on governor’s veto list. Gov. David Ige said he will veto a measure that will allow vacation rental platforms like AirBNB to collect taxes from owners. Hawaii News Now.

Ige says he will veto Senate vacation rental collection bill. Star-Advertiser.

Governor Plans To Veto Short-Term Rental Tax Bill. Hawaii Governor David Ige on Monday announced he plans to veto a bill that would require short-term rental booking platforms to collect state taxes. The measure, S.B. 1292, was passed by the state Senate last month by a single vote. Hawaii Public Radio.

Governor Ige unveils "intent to veto" list. Governor David Ige unveiled his intent to veto list Monday. Twenty bills already passed by state lawmakers may not become law. KITV.

Ige plans to veto bill to tax REITs in Hawaii. Gov. David Ige plans to veto a bill that would make Hawaii only the second state to tax real estate investment trusts, saying any gain the state might see wouldn’t be worth the “negative impacts to the state’s economic health and business climate.” Pacific Business News.

Ige considering vetoes for Airbnb, industrial hemp billsTwenty bills might be on the chopping block after Gov. David Ige revealed Monday which of them he is considering vetoing. Tribune-Herald.

Hemp, Airbnb, Cannabis, Asset Forfeiture Bills On Ige’s Veto List. Hawaii Governor David Ige notified state leaders and key lawmakers today of his intent to veto the 20 different measures that passed through the Legislature this year. Big Island Video News.

Airbnb Among 20 Bills on Ige’s Intent to Veto List. Gov. David Ige notified legislative leaders and key lawmakers of his Intent to Veto 20 measures. Maui Now.

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Pot possession decriminalized with new bill. Starting next year, possession of small quantities of cannabis will no longer be a criminal offense in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii airports get $10M in federal funds for safety improvements, upgrades. Four airports in Hawaii will get over $10 million in federal funds to improve airport safety, U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz announced Monday. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Gets $10 Million For Airport Improvements. The funding will be used to purchase aircraft rescue and firefighting vehicles, reconstruct taxiways and install runway lighting at four airports across the state. Civil Beat.

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More regulation urged in crash’s wake. The National Transportation Safety Board is urging the Federal Aviation Administration to increase regulations for aircraft that operate parachuting serv­ices in the wake of Friday’s fatal skydiving plane crash in Mokuleia. Star-Advertiser.

In wake of crash, investigators put FAA ‘on notice’ over safety concerns with skydiving operations. In an extraordinary news conference Monday, NTSB investigators in Hawaii following Friday’s deadly plane crash in Mokuleia publicly criticized the FAA for failing to adopt tougher oversight of skydiving operations and said the agency is “on notice." Hawaii News Now.

FAA Largely Ignored Calls For Improved Skydiving Flight Safety, NTSB Says. The NTSB called for more stringent standards for skydiving operations more than 10 years ago. On Monday, it called out the FAA for not taking sufficient action on those. Civil Beat.

NTSB calls on FAA to strengthen regulation on parachute operations. According to a National Transportation Safety board member, changes to some Federal Aviation Administration rules could save lives. KITV.

NTSB holds second press conference on Mokuleia plane crash that killed 11. KHON2.

Oahu Parachute Center owner responds for the first time following crash. KHON2.

Medical Examiner releases names of 7 victims from Mokuleia plane crash. The Honolulu Medical Examiner’s Office today released the names of seven of the victims of Friday’s skydiving plane that crashed at Dillingham Airfield, killing all 11 aboard. Star-Advertiser.

Names Of 7 Oahu Plane Crash Victims Released. Eleven people total died in the Dillingham Airfield incident Friday. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Medical Examiner IDs 7 Of 11 Victims In Plane Crash. Hawaii Public Radio.

Vague guidelines on pesticide use at schools has community calling for change. During a community meeting Monday, the head of Hawaii’s public schools admitted she’s not sure if the Department of Education is fully compliant with a new law banning certain pesticides on or near campuses. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Court expects crowd for Kealoha closings. An overflow crowd is expected today when government and defense attorneys give closing arguments in the corruption and conspiracy trial of Katherine and Louis Kealoha and three co- defendants. Star-Advertiser.

Here’s What To Expect At Closing Arguments In The Kealoha Case. Louis and Katherine Kealoha are on trial with three Honolulu police officers for allegedly framing a family member for the theft of their mailbox. Civil Beat.

Unsealed records: Kealoha was prosecuting cases despite ‘serious’ medical condition. Records unsealed Monday by a federal judge show Katherine Kealoha was not capable of prosecuting cases for at least eight months between 2013 and 2014. Hawaii News Now.


Judge to decide on change to Kaneshiro removal petition. A circuit judge will soon decide whether there needs to be a complete do-over of a petition campaign seeking to impeach embattled Honolulu Prosecutor Keith Kaneshiro. Star-Advertiser.

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Tear it down or reopen it? A new evaluation outlines options for the Haiku Stairs. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell is offering hope to hikers looking for a legal way to enjoy the scenic — and currently off-limits — Haiku Stairs. Hawaii News Now.

Board of Water Supply considering the future of Haiku Stairs. An environmental impact statement was released on Sunday that shows the stairs could be removed as early as 2022. KITV.

Hawaii Island

Hydrogen Powered Buses Are Happening On Hawaii Island. Hydrogen buses are on the way and the fueling station in Kona is ready to go, according to County officials. Big Island Video News.

FEMA Wants Its Money Back For Aid To Volcano Victims. FEMA says the agency is required to review disaster assistance payments to ensure the money doesn’t duplicate other assistance, wasn’t inappropriately spent or was provided in error. Civil Beat.

Maui

Kahului Airport Gets $4.29 Million in Federal Funds. Maui’s Kahului Airport will receive $3.6 million to reconstruct its taxiway and $693,750 to purchase aircraft rescue and fire fighting vehicles, according to an announcement today from US Senator Brian Schatz. Maui Now.

Maui vets work to keep Korean War history alive. Veterans remembered through oral histories; candlelight ceremony planned for Tuesday. Maui News.

Kauai

Visitors must pay in Waimea Canyon state parks. Paid parking for visitors and commercial tours is soon to be a common requirement in Kauai State Parks. Garden Island.

Out-of-state visitors to pay parking fees at Kokee, Waimea Canyon State Park. If you’re not a Hawaii resident, be prepared to pay a parking fee come Friday. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai leaders to discuss plans that might impact traditional salt making in Hanapepe. A battle is brewing over Kauai’s famed salt ponds of Hanapepe. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai man among victims of Oahu skydiving crash. Jordan Tehero was a Kauai-raised man in love with skydiving and videography. Garden Island.