Local News

County / In Brief

Propane leak leads to evacuation

Occupants of six units at Kahekili Terrace were evacuated for about an hour Wednesday night while firefighters stopped a propane leak at the Happy Valley housing complex, a fire official said.

Wailuku firefighters and a Kahului hazardous materials crew responded to the 8:32 p.m. alarm at 1849 Piihana Road, said Fire Services Chief Lee Mainaga.

A propane service line had ruptured due to corrosion, he said. The main valve from the property’s propane tank was shut off until repairs could be made by Hawaii Gas Co. on Thursday morning, Mainaga said.

The evacuated units were in one building of the complex. No injuries were reported.

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Wailuku man, 25, charged in burglary

Bail was set at $10,000 for a Wailuku man who was charged with burglarizing the home of relatives who took him in, police said.

Christopher Mattos, 25, was arrested Monday night for stealing cash and jewelry in the burglaries that occurred over time beginning in April, police said.

While being allowed to stay at his relatives’ house on Mamo Place in Wailuku, Mattos broke into locked bedrooms to steal the cash and jewelry, police said.

He was charged with two counts of first-degree burglary.

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Average price of gas $4.63 a gallon

The average price of regular unleaded gasoline in Wailuku dipped a penny to $4.63 per gallon this week, according to AAA Hawaii’s Weekend Gas Watch report.

The Wailuku price was 6 cents more than last month and 10 cents less than the price a year ago.

Statewide, the average unleaded gas price was $4.32 per gallon, 3 cents less than last week, 4 cents less than last month and 3 cents more than a year ago.

Honolulu residents enjoyed the lowest gas prices – $4.19 this week, or 4 cents less than last week, 6 cents less than last month and a penny more than a year ago. In Hilo, the average gas price was $4.32, the same price as last week, 8 cents less than last month and a nickel more than a year ago.

The snapshot of prices was as of Thursday. AAA derives gas prices by taking an average of fleet vehicle credit card transactions.

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Boys & Girls Club given $200,000

The state Office of Hawaiian Affairs has awarded the Boys & Girls Clubs of Maui a $200,000 grant for two years to support the clubs’ homework assistance program, the “Power Hour,” serving an estimated 170 youths next year.

The OHA grant is aimed at improving the lives of Hawaiian children through education.

“This program will address OHA’s strategic priority of ho’ona’auao (education), with the goal to improve academic achievement in the short term and ultimately high school graduation rates, leading to better economic self-sufficiency and a higher quality of life for Hawaiians in the community,” the grant announcement said.

With a large number of Hawaiian language immersion students at the Paukukalo Club, the grant will be used to provide more staff support to tutor them in Hawaiian and English, the announcement said. Youth who report Native Hawaiian ancestry make up 85 percent of the participants at the Paukukalo facility.

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Hana Pier meeting set for July 10

A public informational meeting on Hana Pier improvements will begin with an open house at 5 p.m. July 10, followed at 5:30 by a presentation and question-and-answer session at Helene Hall, the state Department of Transportation has announced.

The department’s Harbors Division is preparing an environmental assessment to address potential environmental impacts of the proposed improvements. Details of those pier improvement alternatives can be found online at hidot.hawaii.gov/harbors/files/2013/01/FINAL_Hana-Dev-Plan_061611-2.pdf.

The department also is soliciting public input on what resources may be affected, which alternatives should be considered, and potential impacts that should be studied.

Anyone needing special accommodations to attend the meeting should call (808) 587-1886 or send email to sandra.c.rossetter@hawaii.gov at least seven days before the event.

Local News

County / In Brief

Goodwill planning Maui Invite Night

Goodwill Industries of Hawaii will hold its first Maui Invite Night on Friday.

The event is sponsored by Maui Time and KPOA at the new Maui Goodwill Store at 250 Alamaha St. in Kahului.

Activities throughout the night include special offers, giveaways, contests and personal styling tips courtesy of the students from the Fashion Technology Department of the University of Hawaii Maui College.

Participants also will learn about the new Goodwill store and its donation locations.

Purchases and donations made to Goodwill directly support its job placement and readiness programs, which are services the nonprofit has been providing to Maui residents since 2004.

Those attending the event can RSVP in the store or online at www.higoodwill.org/maui night.

Goodwill Industries of Hawaii’s mission is to help people with employment barriers to reach their full potential and to become self-sufficient. Supported by its retail operations and financial endeavors, its educational, employment and training programs have provided skills training, employment counseling, job placement and support services since 1959.

For more information, go online to www.higoodwill.org, call 836-9675 or send email to info@higoodwill.org. The agency also may be found on Twitter at @goodwillhawaii, at thegoodwillhunter.com blog and Goodwill Industries of Hawaii on Facebook.

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Winds idle Central Maui Landfill

High winds shut down the Central Maui Landfill as of 1 p.m. Tuesday, and it will be closed at the same time today to give workers time to collect windblown debris, according to a Maui County announcement.

By law, the landfill is required to comply with strict litter control requirements, and officials with the Department of Environmental Management said the early closures were necessary to take measures to avoid potential state Department of Health citations and/or fines, the announcement said.

Officials will reassess conditions at the landfill for Thursday. For more information, call 270-6153.

The National Weather Service reported gusts of up to 25 mph at noon Tuesday at Kahului Airport. Then, at 3 p.m. at the airport, northeast winds were “breezy” with sustained winds of 21 mph.

Forecasters predict trade winds blowing from 10 to 15 mph through Sunday.

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Library to close for roofing, fumigation

The Wailuku Public Library will close for reroofing and tent fumigation beginning July 4, according to an announcement.

The library’s book drop will be locked and inaccessible beginning at 4 p.m. July 3 and for the duration of the project. And the facility’s Bookmobile will not be in service.

Library officials will announce later when the Wailuku library will reopen.

Local News

County / In Brief

Kihei house fire called ‘accidental’

A blaze that gutted a Kihei home Sunday afternoon has been called “an accidental fire,” fire officials said Monday.

Although the cause of the fire is still undetermined, “investigators could not find anything that could substantiate anything other than an accidental fire,” Fire Services Chief Lee Mainaga said.

Fire officials and the police Criminal Investigation Division conducted the investigation.

A woman, a man and two children were displaced by the fire, and the Red Cross has since assisted the family.

At about 1:45 p.m., fire crews responded to the multifamily home at 204 Humupea Place, finding flames coming from the rear of the home.

The fire was under control at 3:25 p.m. and extinguished about two hours later.

No injuries were reported, but the home was destroyed by fire, fire officials said.

Estimated damage was $450,000 to the structure and $150,000 to its contents.

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Concert fundraiser set for July 6

The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua Maui Resort will host a concert fundraiser from 5 to 10 p.m. July 6 for the newly named Malama Maui Nui, formerly the Community Work Day Program.

Tickets cost $25 (not including fees) for adults and are available by calling 877-2524 or by going online to fortheloveofmaui.eventbrite.com.

Held in conjunction with the Arts Education for Children Group and Jazz Maui 2013, the concert will feature a lineup of jazz musicians, a visual and live performance by ArtCore Maui, a silent auction, environmental education and a native and edible plant sale.

Jazz artists scheduled to perform include trumpeter Jim Seeley and saxophonist Peter Brainin of the Arturo O’Farril Latin Jazz Orchestra live from New York, the Gene Argel Latin Band, the Louis Romanos Quartet from Louisiana, and pianist Tommy James of the Duke Ellington Orchestra.

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Lahaina office grand opening set

The Division of Motor Vehicles & Licensing will hold the grand opening of its Lahaina satellite office at 10:30 a.m. Friday.

The Lahaina satellite office is located at 335 Keawe St., Suite 209. The office will be open from noon to 4 p.m. on that day.

Regular hours are from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. weekdays.

For more information, call 270-7363.

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Three firefighters receive promotions

Firefighters Clement Enomoto, Matthew Akiona and Jesse Aloy have been promoted to the rank of firefighter II hazardous materials specialist and assigned to C Watch at the Kahului Fire Station.

Enomoto has been with the Maui Fire Department for seven years, working on Molokai and Maui, his last assignment being with a Kahului engine company.

Akiona, a firefighter for seven years, worked at the Napili and Paia fire stations, his last assignment being with a Kahului engine company.

Aloy, who has been with the Maui Fire Department for four years, spent three months on Lanai before being assigned to the Kahului Fire Station. Before joining the department on Maui, Aloy was firefighter on the Big Island for five years.

The promotions took effect June 16.

Local News

County / In Brief

Special meeting set for Wednesday

The Maui County Council will hold a special meeting at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday in Council Chambers to take up final action on a bill to address a shortfall in the Department of Fire and Public Safety’s current budget.

The bill would amend the current 2013 budget to allow the Fire Department to make up a $380,000 shortfall in its fire/rescue operations program that stem from overtime costs.

Funding to make up for the deficit will come from $280,000 in savings in the department’s rescue operations program for helicopter services as well as $100,000 from the Department of Finance’s budgeted countywide costs, insurance programs and self-insurance.

The bill passed first reading Wednesday. It needs a final approval next Wednesday in order for the current budget to be amended before the current fiscal year ends June 30.

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Wailuku gas price increases 2 cents

The price of a gallon of unleaded gasoline in Wailuku rose 2 cents in a week to $4.64 per gallon, the highest of three areas checked statewide in the weekly AAA Hawaii Gas Watch report.

Wailuku’s price was 10 cents more than last month and 21 cents less than a year ago.

Statewide, the average price of regular unleaded gas was $4.35, unchanged from a week ago, 1 cent more than last month and 4 cents less than a year ago.

Honolulu’s average price of $4.23 a gallon was a penny less than last week, 2 cents more than last month and the same price on this day last year. In Hilo, the average gas price of $4.32 was 4 cents less than last week, 6 cents less than last month and 11 cents less than a year ago.

The average price was a snapshot of gas costs as of Thursday. Prices are derived from fleet vehicle credit card transactions.

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Wailuku woman charged with theft

A woman was arrested for shoplifting after she was seen leaving a Kahului store without paying for merchandise Wednesday, police said.

Ray-Anna Ortiz, 34, of Wailuku was charged with second-degree theft. Her bail was set at $1,000. She also was arrested on three warrants totaling $300 for failure to appear.

Walmart loss prevention officers reported seeing Ortiz place several items into a bag between 11:35 and 11:55 a.m., police said. She left the store without paying for $321 in merchandise, police said.

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Woman charged in November burglary

A second suspect was arrested Wednesday in the burglary last year of a Kahului home, police said.

Bail was set at $20,000 for Mililani Gamurot, 33, of Kihei. She was charged with first-degree burglary.

Like Riana Lee, 21, of Wailuku, who was arrested Tuesday, Gamurot was identified through a surveillance photo that was posted on the Maui Police Department’s Facebook page.

The photo showed two people leaving a residence on Holua Drive that was burglarized at 12:30 p.m. Nov. 5, police said.

Local News

County / In Brief

Additional crimes mean prison term

WAILUKU – A Kihei man was sentenced to a five-year prison term after being arrested for new crimes three months after being placed on probation in theft cases.

Sione Lee Tonga, 28, was sentenced June 13 after pleading no contest to second-degree unauthorized entry into a dwelling and fourth-degree criminal property damage.

The charges are from a March 2 incident when he damaged a door and entered a Kihei residence, according to court records.

Tonga had been placed on five years’ probation when he was sentenced in December for two counts of second-degree theft and unauthorized control of a propelled vehicle. Those charges involved the theft of a moped from Piilani Village Shopping Center and the theft of a purse containing $850.

Second Circuit Judge Joseph Cardoza imposed the sentence.

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Burglary suspect ID’d via Facebook

A woman was arrested for burglarizing a Kahului home after she was identified through a surveillance photo that was posted on the Maui Police Department’s Facebook page, police said.

Riana Lee, 21, of Wailuku was charged with first-degree burglary following her arrest Tuesday. Her bail was set at $20,000.

The burglary occurred at 12:30 p.m. Nov. 5 at a residence on Holua Drive. A surveillance photo showed two people leaving the home with stolen property.

After the photo was posted on the department’s Facebook page, a tip from a patrol officer led to Lee being identified as one of the suspects, police said.

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Kahului woman busted in car theft

A 24-year-old Kahului woman was arrested Monday after she took a relative’s car without permission, police said.

Bail was set at $1,000 for Kimberly Arcilla. She was charged with unauthorized control of a propelled vehicle.

Arcilla took the car from a residence on Lalani Circle at 1 p.m. Monday before returning it at about 6:30 p.m. the same day, police said.

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Tsutsui office lease agreement signed

A lease agreement that will allow Lt. Gov. Shan Tsutsui to use office space on the ninth floor of the Kalana O Maui Building was signed June 13.

Tsutsui and Mayor Alan Arakawa signed the agreement that will allow the lieutenant governor to work and meet constituents in the office space in the mayor’s office. A staffer recently moved to another office, leaving the room open, according to county spokeswoman Lois Whitney.

The state will be leasing the office from the county for $1 through Dec. 31, 2014, a news release announcing the agreement said.

After pulling out a dollar and offering to foot the bill, Arakawa said: “I’m just glad we will be able to work more closely with you on joint county-state projects, and that as neighbors we can collaborate in new ways.”

“This is a great partnership between the county and state and an excellent service for the people of Maui, who can now get access to their local government in one building,” Tsutsui said.

The lease was approved by the Maui County Department of the Corporation Counsel and the state attorney general and authorized by a resolution of the Maui County Council.

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Highway closed while car retrieved

Police closed Hana Highway near Puaa Kaa State Park in Wailua for about 20 minutes Wednesday morning while a tow truck removed a sedan that went off the side of the road Tuesday night, injuring three occupants.

The car ended up 60 feet below the road in a ravine after failing to negotiate a turn while heading to Wailuku, police said.

The crash was reported at 6:37 p.m. at Milepost 21.5 on the Paia side of the park, a fire official said. A Hana fire crew and Kahului rescue company responded along with police, with the Hana crew meeting with the car occupants – three women in their early 20s who had made their way up the ravine, said Fire Services Chief Lee Mainaga.

The women suffered some cuts and lacerations, with one woman sustaining an injury to her right ankle, he said. She was stabilized on a backboard as a precaution, and all three were transported by American Medical Response to the hospital.

The woman with the leg injury was initially considered in critical condition and kept overnight at the hospital for observation, police said. The other two women were treated and released.

The women were from Wailuku and Upcountry, police said.

Local News

County / In Brief

Fire damages Lahaina house

Firefighters responded to a house fire Monday morning in Lahaina that caused about $100,000 in damage to the structure and contents, fire officials said.

At 6:04 a.m., crews from Lahaina, Napili, Wailuku and Kahului responded to reports of a fire at 321 Front St. Upon arrival, they found smoke coming out of the roof of the home, Fire Services Chief Lee Mainaga said. He said that the fire, which was located at the rear of the home, was centered in the floor between the first- and second-story patio and extinguished by firefighters at 8:18 a.m.

No injuries were reported, and no one was displaced by the fire, Mainaga said.

He said that the cause of the fire could not be determined and is classified as accidental.

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Man arrested after driving toward police

A 20-year-old Makawao man was arrested Sunday after resisting arrest and nearly hitting three police officers with his car the day before, according to police.

Logan Franco was charged with three counts of first-degree attempted assault, resisting arrest, reckless driving and contempt of court. His bail was set at $65,400.

At 8:20 a.m. Saturday, officers tried to execute a bench warrant for Franco’s arrest, arriving at his residence and identifying him standing near his truck, police said. Upon seeing the officers, he quickly entered his vehicle, locked his doors and reversed his vehicle up his driveway. Police said he then shifted into drive and drove into the street, causing the three police officers at the scene to jump out of the way.

Police returned to his residence the following day and arrested him at 9:09 a.m. as he tried to escape out of a bedroom window.

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Man arrested after reckless driver calls

A 24-year-old Kula man was arrested Sunday afternoon after evading and damaging police cars on Makena Alanui Road, police said.

Scott Baker was charged with 10 counts, including assault against a police officer, criminal property damage, first-degree reckless endangering and operating a vehicle under the influence of an intoxicant. His bail was set at $29,000.

Police officers responded to numerous calls Sunday afternoon of a reckless driver heading southbound on the South Maui road, police said. The silver Toyota pickup had reportedly crashed into a wall but was still proceeding down the road.

Two police units located Baker’s vehicle, which had heavy damage to its front and a flat tire, police said. The units initiated a traffic stop.

The lone male driver, who “exhibited signs of intoxication,” was told he was under arrest and asked to step out of his car, at which point he uttered an expletive, police said.

Baker started his vehicle and made a U-turn, hitting the police car in front of him, and drove south toward Makena Beach & Golf Resort, police said. He was later arrested at 5:14 p.m., when his vehicle was found stuck in a sandy area on the side of the road near the resort, police said.

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Man charged with burglary

A Lahaina man was arrested Saturday after he broke into a relative’s residence, taking items including the keys to her vehicle, which he was seen driving, police said.

Christian Keale-Smith, 18, was charged with first-degree burglary and unauthorized control of a propelled vehicle. His bail was set at $2,000.

The theft was reported at about 5:10 p.m. Saturday. Keale-Smith was arrested later that evening after he returned to the victim’s residence on Ainakea Place. He ran as officers were arriving but was located and arrested, police said.

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Combative man subdued with Taser

A man who was combative when officers tried to break up a fight on Front Street in Lahaina also was charged with threatening officers and their families, police said.

Bail was set at $9,000 for Robert Billianor, 32, of Lahaina. He was charged with third-degree assault, first-degree terroristic threatening, resisting arrest and disorderly conduct.

Lahaina patrol officers were assigned to Front Street after a report of a disorderly man at 9:20 p.m. Saturday. When officers arrived at the location near the Lahaina Public Library, Billianor had hit two people in the face, causing pain, and was continuing to fight with others, police said.

Billianor refused to comply with police orders before he was eventually arrested, police said. After he was combative and resisted, officers had to use a Taser to subdue him, police said.

While he was in custody, Billianor made several threats directed at officers and their families, police said.

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Man arrested on gun charges

A 37-year-old Wailuku man was arrested Sunday morning when police found him with a gun after responding to a report of a domestic disturbance involving verbal abuse in Central Maui, police said.

Officers were at the residence when someone said that Keaka Kuhaulua had a gun, police said. Police reported finding a gun in Kuhaulua’s waistband.

He was charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm and not having a required gun permit. He also was arrested on a contempt-of-court warrant.

His bail was set at $6,500.

According to court records, Kuhaulua has prior convictions for third-degree promotion of a dangerous drug, possessing drug paraphernalia, unauthorized control of a propelled vehicle and unauthorized entry into a motor vehicle.

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OHA is meeting on Molokai this week

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs will be holding meetings on Molokai this week to gather feedback on issues that are critical to Native Hawaiian communities.

Both meetings are open to the public and will be held at Kulana ‘Oiwi Halau in Kalamaula.

A community meeting is set for 6:30 p.m. Wednesday and a board meeting the next day at 9 a.m.

For more information, go to the website www.oha.org or call (808) 560-3611.

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Kipahulu meeting set for Wednesday

The Kipahulu Visitor Center at Haleakala National Park is hosting a community meeting from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Wednesday at the center in Kipahulu.

The public is invited to attend. The meeting will give the public a chance to visit with park staff and to get updates on park planning.

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Hiker rescued after fracturing his ankle

A 32-year-old hiker from Maui was rescued Sunday after fracturing his ankle in East Maui, fire officials said.

At 1:57 p.m., firefighters and rescue crews responded to Mile Post 7 along Hana Highway and located the man about 2 miles below the road, Fire Services Chief Lee Mainaga said.

He said the man had reportedly fallen off the side of the highway, suffering a fractured right ankle and injuries to his left ankle. The man was airlifted to a pasture on the mauka side of the highway and transported to Maui Memorial Medical Center.

His injuries were classified as nonlife-threatening, Mainaga said.

Local News

County / In Brief

MEO gets grant to help farmworkers

Maui Economic Opportunity, based in Wailuku, has received $312,663 from a U.S. Labor Department program to improve economic opportunities and to combat unemployment for migrant and seasonal farmworkers and their families.

MEO was one of seven organizations nationwide to garner a portion of $9.1 million from the National Farmworker Jobs Program, a Labor Department news release said.

The grantees will help farmworkers upgrade their agricultural job skills or acquire new skills in industries that offer higher wages and more stable employment, the news release said. In addition, participants will receive supportive services, such as transportation, nutrition and child care, that remove barriers to farmworkers pursuing training.

Grants are allocated through a formula that estimates the number of eligible workers in each state or territory. The grants cover a two-year period but are funded on an annual basis. This award runs from July 1 to June 30, 2014.

For more information on the National Farmworker Jobs Program, go to www.doleta.gov/msfw/html/nfjp.cfm.

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Kihei Community Association to meet

State Sen. Roz Baker and state Reps. Kaniela Ing and Angus McKelvey will appear at the Kihei Community Association meeting Tuesday evening at the Kihei Charter School.

The state lawmakers who represent South Maui will be answering questions about the recent legislative session and discussing developments affecting the area.

There also will be an update on the “Grow Some Good” program.

The evening will begin at 6:30; doors open at 6. Kihei Charter School is located at 41 E. Lipoa St.

The public is invited. Nonperishable donations for the Maui Food Bank are being collected.

For more information, call (508) 499-9996 or go to www.gokihei.org.

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12-hour vigil to begin Saturday

Hui Pono Ike Kanawai will hold a 12-hour vigil at the Haleakala National Park Visitor Center lookout from 6 p.m. Saturday to 6 a.m. June 23 to raise awareness of the cultural landscape and history of the mountain and the construction of the Advanced Technology Solar Telescope.

The National Park Service willl not close the parking lot and lookout area for the vigil, the public is invited, a news release about the event said.

There will be ohana stories, personal experiences, historical accounts and observance of protocols and respect. There also will be an hourly cultural protocol.

“This vigil is a cultural practice based in recognition of and need for divine intervention,” said the group’s news release about the event.

The group is raising concerns about the transparency of the construction of the 14-story telescope and protection of Native Hawaiian artifacts and symbols, the news release said.

Speakers include Kiope Raymond, University of Hawaii Maui College instructor in the Hawaiian Studies Department; Joyclyn Costa, a member of the ATST Native Hawaiian Working Group and past alakai for Hui Pono Ike Kanawai; and Wilmont Kahaialii and Kaniloa Kamaunu, Hui Pono Ike Kanawai presenters.

Restroom facilities are available. Attendees are advised to dress for extremely cold weather and to be mindful of the altitude.

Local News

County / In Brief

Kihei man faces DUI, gun charges

A 31-year-old Kihei man was arrested for drunken driving and firearms offenses after he was stopped for having an expired vehicle registration early Friday in Kihei, police said.

Bail was set at $11,400 for Nicholas Chinn. He was charged with keeping a pistol and ammunition in an improper place, having a loaded firearm on a public highway, driving under the influence of alcohol and having an open liquor container in a vehicle.

When the officer contacted the driver after the traffic stop at 12:10 a.m. in the Kihei Foodland parking lot, the officer observed the driver had been drinking, police said. After conducting a drunken-driving investigation and placing the driver under arrest, the officer was patting down the driver when a loaded pistol was found in the driver’s waistband, police said. The officer also recovered a loaded magazine clip from the driver’s pants pocket, police said. From within the vehicle, the officer recovered a bottle of liquor.

Chinn was arrested at 12:40 a.m.

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Three fires in hour thought to be arson

Three unscheduled cane fires that appeared to have been intentionally set within an hour caused an estimated $45,000 damage Thursday night and early Friday in Central Maui, fire officials said.

Several homes near Waiko Road were threatened by the first fire, reported off Honoapiilani Highway at 10:57 p.m. Thursday, said Fire Services Chief Lee Mainaga. Wailuku and Kahului firefighters, including a Wailuku minitruck and Kahului tanker responded, with 4 acres burned before the fire was contained at 11:44 p.m. No homes were damaged.

Six minutes later, at 11:50 p.m., Kahului engine and tanker crews were called to another fire at Pulehu Road that burned 1 acre. It was contained at 12:07 a.m. Friday.

At 12:11 a.m. Friday, 4 acres burned in a fire at Kuihelani Highway and Maui Lani Parkway. Kahului and Wailuku firefighters responded, containing the fire at 1:50 a.m. Along with engine companies, a Kahului hazardous materials crew and two Kahului tankers responded.

In all, 9 acres of sugar cane were lost. Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Co. employees took over firefighting efforts to extinguish the fires.

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MFD continues the hunt for snorkeler

While the Coast Guard suspended its search Thursday, the Maui Fire Department continued search efforts Friday for a 56-year-old Illinois man who went missing while snorkeling Tuesday evening near Molokini crater.

The Fire Department’s Air One helicopter and Kahului rescue boat were deployed Friday morning to continue the search, said Battalion Chief Allen Duarte.

Searchers have found no sign of Paul Blackburn, who had been snorkeling with his son before being reported missing. The two and a captain were aboard the sailing vessel Gauguin, which had left Oahu for a six-day cruise, police said. The vessel had stopped overnight at Hale O Lono Harbor on Molokai and also traveled to Lanai before going to Molokini, police said.

Local News

County / In Brief

2 sought in attack on homeless man

Police are looking for two homeless men in their 20s who allegedly robbed another homeless man from Haiku on Tuesday afternoon at the Maui Marketplace in Kahului, police said Wednesday.

Lt. Jayson Rego of the Criminal Investigation Division said the 28-year-old man from Haiku told police he was hit on the head with a pipe Tuesday after he told a local Caucasian male that he didn’t have the money he owned him for marijuana he received. The victim suffered a bump to his head.

After the suspect hit the victim on the head, a local Japanese man, who was eating lunch with the victim, was aware that the victim actually had some money and allegedly took $80 from the victim.

Both suspects then fled the area, Rego said.

The local Caucasian man is described as possibly being 25 years old and 5 feet 6 inches to 5 feet 7 inches in height and weighing 160 pounds with brown hair and a fair complexion.

The Japanese man is estimated to be 22 years old, 5 feet 9 inches tall, and weighing 170 pounds.

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High-surf advisory until Friday evening

A high-surf advisory has been posted for east-facing shores of all islands from 6 a.m. today to 6 p.m. Friday, the National Weather Service said Wednesday.

Surf is expected to be 6 to 8 feet high along east-facing shores.

There will be a strong shore break and rip currents making swimming difficult and dangerous.

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Hana library will close for renovation

The Hana Public & School Library will close beginning June 21 for a roofing and air conditioner replacement project this summer.

The Hawaii public library system said that an announcement will be made when the library is ready to reopen. The book drop will remain open for the duration of the project.

Hana library patrons may visit other public libraries or the public library website www.librarieshawaii.org.

On the website, patrons may renew books and most library materials for an additional three weeks if there are no reserves on the items; browse the public library catalog for book titles, ebooks and digital audio books and the online database, which provides access to full-text materials from thousands of magazines, newspapers, journals and other publications; and get answers to brief informational reference questions using the “Ask-A-Librarian” E-Reference service.

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Seat inspections offered Saturday

Free child car seat and booster seat inspections will be done from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday in the parking lot of Maui Marketplace near Sports Authority on Dairy Road in Kahului.

Those interested in having child car seats checked to see whether they’re properly installed should show up with the child, car or booster seat and vehicle. An inspection takes a minimum of 30 minutes for each seat.

The inspections are done on a first-come, first-served basis.

Under state law, child car seats are required for children under age 4.

Children from ages 4 to 7 are required to be restrained in either car seats or booster seats while riding in vehicles.

Information about upcoming child car seat inspections is available on Facebook by looking up Maui County Child Passenger Safety at www.facebook.com/mauichildpassengersafety.

Local News

County / In Brief

Snails, plants put on endangered list

Three varieties of tree snails and 37 species of herbs, shrubs, trees and ferns in Maui County have been added to the Endangered Species list, according to a news release from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service last month.

The service also delisted a Lanai plant, Gahnia lanaiensis, which officials believe is no longer a valid species because it is endemic to New Zealand and is not in danger of becoming endangered or extinct.

“The addition of these 40 Maui Nui species affords us the opportunity to provide additional protection to these rare species under the Endangered Species Act,” said Loyal Mehrhoff, field supervisor for the Pacific Islands Fish and Wildlife Office.

The Endangered Species Act makes it illegal to kill, harm or otherwise “take” a listed species, or to possess, import, export or engage in interstate or international commerce of a listed species without permission from the service. The act requires all federal agencies to minimize the impact of their activities on listed species.

The final rule was published in the Federal Register on May 28. Copies may be downloaded at www/fws/gov/paci ficislands.

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Visitor swept from rocks is rescued

A Canadian visitor was rescued from the ocean Tuesday after being swept off the rocks and into the ocean at the Olivine Pools area near Kahakuloa, a fire official said.

A county Ocean Safety rescue watercraft was the first to arrive on scene after the 11:58 a.m. alarm and made contact with the exhausted 27-year-old man, said Fire Services Chief Lee Mainaga. He said the man was secured onto the watercraft.

Shortly afterward, a fire rescue crew aboard the Fire Department’s Air One helicopter airlifted the man to a landing zone on shore, Mainaga said.

The visitor from Calgary-North West, Alberta, sustained a few lacerations to his legs and feet, Mainaga said, and was treated on scene by Napili firefighters.

Bystanders, who called 911, had tossed the man a bodyboard so he could stay afloat until rescue personnel arrived, Mainaga said.

A fire rescue boat from Lahaina also responded.

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Kula man charged in abuse of woman

A 40-year-old Kula man was arrested after allegedly twice strangling his girlfriend during a heated argument at their residence Saturday, police said.

Garry Shinyama was charged with felony abuse by strangulation.

Police said Shinyama became upset after he and his 38-year-old girlfriend argued at about 5:55 p.m. He held down the woman, placed both hands around her neck and began to strangle her, impeding her breathing, police said.

Shinyama strangled the woman twice in the residence and threatened to kill her if he saw police officers come to the home, police said.

The victim made contact with police once she was outside the home. She reported having trouble breathing and also suffered multiple lacerations and abrasions to her face, neck and arms, police said.

She was treated by medics at the scene and transported to Maui Memorial Medical Center for further evaluation.

Bail was set at $5,000 for Shinyama on the abuse charge. He also was arrested on a $10,000 warrant on charges of third-degree promotion of a dangerous drug, possessing drug paraphernalia and third-degree promotion of a detrimental drug.

He was released after posting $15,000 bail.

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Lahaina pa’u parade and hoolaulea set

The Na Kamehameha Commemorative Pa’u Parade & Ho’olaule’a will be held Saturday in Lahaina town and at Kamehameha Iki Park next to 505 Front St.

Motorists are advised that streets will begin closing at 8:30 a.m. The first to close will be Front Street at Kenui Street. At 9 a.m., all Front Street cross streets will close, including Baker, Papalaua, Dickenson and Prison streets and Lahainaluna Road.

The parade will begin at 9:45 a.m. at Kenui Street and proceed down Front Street to Shaw Street. Roads will reopen as the full parade passes through the different areas. The parade is expected to wind up by noon, organizers said.

The hoolaulea will begin at 9 a.m. at Kamehameha Iki Park and will feature Hawaiian exhibits and tours, food booths, crafters and local entertainment.

The pa’u awards ceremony will be at 1:15 p.m. Events will be held until 5 p.m.

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Education council seeking members

The Native Hawaiian Education Council is seeking individuals interested in developing and perpetuating excellence in Native Hawaiian education to serve on the council.

Currently, there are four vacancies on the 21-member council of volunteers. The council is interested in applicants from all islands, from young adults to kupuna, a news release said.

NHEC was established by the Native Hawaiian Education Act to assess the extent to which education programs meet the needs of Native Hawaiians.

For more information and to request an application form, send email to nhec@nhec.org. Applications are due June 20.

Local News

County / In Brief

Baker, Ing to host session wrap-up event West and South Maui Sen. Roz Baker and South Maui Rep. Kaniela Ing will hold a “talk story” and “End of Session Wrap-up” meeting with constituents from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Saturday at the Kihei Charter School campus at the Lipoa Center.

The event is “an opportunity for us to update our community on bills passed and capital improvements projects funded by the state Legislature,” Baker said.

For more information, contact Baker’s office toll free from Maui at 984-2400, ext. 66070, or via email at senbaker@capitol.hawaii.gov. Contact Ing’s office toll free at 984-2400, ext. 68525, or send him email at reping@capitol.hawaii.gov.

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KIRC members to discuss 2014 budget

Members of the Kaho’olawe Island Reserve Commission will discuss and approve the agency’s fiscal 2014 budget during a meeting Wednesday on Maui.

The panel will meet at 9:30 a.m. in the Mayor’s Conference Room on the ninth floor of the Kalana O Maui building in Wailuku.

The commission’s agenda includes a workshop on strategic planning, reports from Executive Director Michael Naho’opi’i and program status updates.

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Metals recycling program set for Molokai

A metals recycling collection program begins Wednesday and runs through June 22 on Molokai, according to an announcement from the county Department of Environmental Management.

Collections will be held 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday at the Molokai Metals Facility, which is operated by Kitagawa’s Towing & Metal Recycling.

Aside from metals, the facility also will take in vehicle tires, batteries and related materials, including propane tanks, roofing, gutters, tubs, sinks, faucets, pipes, metal furniture, bicycles, mowers, tools and fencing. No vehicles will be accepted, however. Metals should be separated from other waste materials.

People bringing items to the landfill should stop at the scale house first, then proceed directly to the Molokai Metals Facility.

There are no fees for residents, but businesses and agencies will be assessed a fee. For more information on fees, call (808) 658-9029.

The collection facility is on Maunaloa Highway at the Molokai-Naiwa Landfill.

Local News

County / In Brief

Diabetes topic of discussion at MMMC

The topic “diabetes complications” will be discussed from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday in the Marion Hanlon room at the Maui Memorial Medical Center’s Kahului Tower.

Marny Moriyasu, a registered nurse and certified diabetes educator, will lead the discussion as part of the Diabetes Support Group monthly meeting, which is geared toward diabetic patients and their families. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, call Moriyasu at 442-5773.

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Crews airlift windsurfer with broken mast

A male windsurfer was airlifted after breaking his mast Saturday night at Kanaha Beach Park, fire officials said.

The 60-year-old visitor was reported missing by his wife, who had not seen him for two hours, said Fire Services Chief Lee Mainaga. Due to the broken mast, the man could not swim to shore and was found floating on his board at 6:35 p.m. between the Wailuku-Kahului Wastewater Reclamation Facility and Maui Electric Co.’s Kahului power plant, Mainaga said.

The man required no medical attention.

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State DOT announces ongoing roadwork

The state Department of Transportation announced that roadwork will be occurring on Hana, Honoapiilani and Kahekili highways in the following areas this week:

* There will be a single-lane closure on Hana Highway in the eastbound direction between Milepost 10.4, in the vicinity of Garden of Eden, and Milepost 16, in the vicinity of Keanae Peninsula Road, from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. today through Friday for slope stabilization work.

* Ocean erosion repairs will continue on Honoapiilani Highway in the area of Launiupoko State Park, shifting lanes mauka. Speed limits are reduced in the work zone.

* Pavement resurfacing will cause alternating single-lane closures in both directions on Honoapiilani Highway between Olowalu Village Road and Maalaea Boat Harbor Road from 10 p.m to 5:30 a.m. today through Friday. Traffic will be contraflowed using the open lane.

* There will be alternating single-lane closures in both directions on Kahekili Highway between Milepost 36, in the vicinity of Honokohau Bay, and Milepost 42, in the vicinity of Papanahoa Gulch, from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m Wednesday through Friday for drainage cleaning. Traffic will be contraflowed using the open lane.

Local News

County / In Brief

Man unresponsive in pool dies

A 77-year-old California man died Thursday after he became unconscious when he went into a swimming pool at a Kihei condominium complex, police said.

Police were called to the Kihei Kamaole condominiums on South Kihei Road at 9:57 a.m., finding the man unresponsive, said Capt. Tivoli Faaumu, commander of the Kihei Patrol District.

Witnesses reported that the man had appeared to be pale and sweating profusely when he arrived at the pool, he said. The man entered the water and immediately became unresponsive and unconscious, witnesses told police.

After attempts were made to revive the man, medics transported him in critical condition to Maui Memorial Medical Center, where he was later pronounced dead, Faaumu said.

The man was identified as Guanglin Sang of Palo Alto.

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Slots open for software camp

There are still a few slots left for middle and high school students interested in learning about Photoshop, WordPress and Gaming this summer.

The free Summer Software Camps, sponsored by Maui Economic Development Board’s Women in Technology project, are all-day camps that will be held at the MEDB Don Malcolm Training Center at Maui Research & Technology Park in Kihei.

The Photoshop Software Camp will be held Tuesday and Wednesday, the WordPress Software Camp on Thursday and Friday and the Gaming Workshop on July 23 and 24. Registered students must participate in both days of camp. Snacks and drinks will be provided daily, but students will need to bring their own lunch.

To register, go online to www.surveymonkey.com/s/MAUISoftwareCampPSWP or call Mapu Quitazol at 875-2300 or send her an email at mapu@medb.org. Those registering should include a student’s name, grade, contact number and email address.

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Shaka Pops to host food drive

Shaka Pops, Maui’s handmade ice pop company, is holding a food drive this month to benefit the Maui Food Bank.

Donations of nonperishable food items can be dropped off at Booth 616 at the Maui Swap Meet on Saturday mornings or at the Shaka Pops mobile location in Hana across from the Hasegawa General Store from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays.

The most needed items include canned goods such as meat, tuna, fruits, vegetables, meals and soups, as well as cereal, rice and pasta.

In appreciation of their contributions, donors will receive $1 off an ice pop, with a maximum of $1 per person per day.

Each month, the Maui Food Bank helps provide food for more than 10,000 people who are at risk of going hungry.

“Many people volunteer or donate to the Maui Food Bank during the holidays, but the need is great all year around,” said Shaka Pops co-owner Christine Vestfals. “Families that rely on schools to provide an affordable meal often struggle during the summer break. The Maui Food Bank helps them fill that gap.”

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Registration set for Hongwanji

Wailuku Hongwanji Japanese Language School will hold its registration from 9 to 11 a.m. today at its Gakuen office at 1828 Vineyard St. in Wailuku.

The school will be in session from August until May 2014, according to an announcement. Tuition is $60 per month. Classes are 30 minutes per day, and each class has an average of about a dozen students.

There will be special classes for 3rd- through 5th-graders who will be enrolled in the Japanese language program for the first time. Bus service will be available from public schools.

Instructors are Japanese natives and will teach reading, writing, speaking and Japanese culture.

There will be cultural day programs during the school year. Students will experience making sushi, Spam musubi, origami crafts, calligraphy, mochi and okonomi-yaki, and they will perform in a year-end entertainment program called Gakugeikai with Japanese skits.

For more information, contact the Rev. Shinkai Murakami, principal of the school, at 244-0406 or send him email at shinkai528@gmail.com.

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Abercrombie garners support

Gov. Neil Abercrombie is lining up support for his re-election bid in 2014.

On Friday, all three local unions of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers announced their support for the governor.

Abercrombie accepted the endorsements of IBEW Local 1260, Local 1186 and Local 1357 in Honolulu. The unions represent 8,000 utility workers, electricians, technicians, contractors and defense contractors in Hawaii, Guam and Saipan.

“Governor Abercrombie has had to make some tough calls, but the bottom line is he has resolved the fiscal crisis his administration inherited and deserves another four years to build an even stronger economy,” said Brian Ahakuelo, business manager and financial secretary of Local 1260.

“In every decision he makes, Governor Abercrombie considers the needs of working men and women,” added Damien Kim, business manager and financial secretary of Local 1186.

*****

Tropic Care clinics to continue

“Tropic Care” clinics in Maui County will be open this weekend and on the Kamehameha Day holiday Tuesday, officials announced Friday.

Operated by U.S. military personnel, the clinics provide free medical, dental and vision services to anyone in need of them through Wednesday at three locations – Iao Intermediate School in Wailuku, St. Theresa Church in Kihei and Lanai High and Elementary School.

Molokai’s clinic at Kaunakakai Elementary School will run from today through Monday, and the Lahaina Civic Center clinic will be open Tuesday and Wednesday. Although the dates of these clinics are certain, military officials report they might close the clinics earlier than scheduled if there are few to no patients on the last day. A full clinic schedule is available online at www.mauicounty.gov/tropiccare.

Dental fillings are not being provided, as had been planned, because a supply of drills and cavity-filling material could not be shipped to Maui in time for the clinics. However, dental exams, X-rays and extractions will be offered.

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Downed line leads to power outage

Around 1,700 customers in Kahului were without power early Friday morning when a power line possibly affected by salt air corrosion came down at the intersection of Kaahumanu and South Wakea avenues, a Maui Electric Co. official said.

No injuries were reported in the incident that occurred around 4 a.m. Friday, MECO spokeswoman Kau’i Awai-Dickson said.

Power was restored to customers incrementally with electricity restored to all customers by 8:11 a.m., she said.

The outage affected areas including part of the Queen Ka’ahumanu Center and nearby streets along with areas bounded by Papa Avenue and the Maui Lani subdivisions, officials said.

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PWF set to offer free cruises on Sunday

In celebration of World Oceans Day, Pacific Whale Foundation will offer free Ocean Discovery Cruises on Sunday for Hawaii residents as well as all foundation members.

The cruises will depart from Maalaea Harbor at 1, 2 and 3 p.m and from the Lahaina Harbor at 11:30 a.m and 1 p.m. The cruises last one hour and feature narration about Maui’s ocean environment by the foundation’s certified marine naturalists. There will also be a free junior naturalist program for children.

Reservations are required for all tickets, which are subject to availability. To make a reservation, call 249-8811, ext. 1, between 6 a.m. and 8 p.m. daily.

World Oceans Day is the official United Nations-designated international day of ocean celebration held on June 8 of each year, according to an announcement.

Local News

County / In Brief

Repairs set for tennis courts

Two Wailuku public tennis courts will be closed for morning repairs next week.

The Wells Street tennis courts – Nos. 4, 5, and 6 – will be closed from 8 to 11 a.m. Thursday.

All War Memorial tennis courts will be off-limits for players from 8 to 11 a.m. June 14.

*****

Man arrested in home burglary

A 42-year-old man was arrested Wednesday night for burglarizing a relative’s home

and driving his truck without permission while he was vacationing on the Mainland, police said.

Erek Brown, who gave no local address, was charged with first-degree burglary and unauthorized control of a propelled vehicle. His bail was set at $6,000.

Brown was arrested after a witness reported that he had been seen driving the relative’s truck, police said. When police checked the relative’s house, the truck was there and Brown was in the house, which had been ransacked, police said.

Police confirmed that Brown didn’t have permission to be in the house or to drive the truck.

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Video catches man in burglary

A man was charged with attempting to burglarize a Pukalani residence after he was recognized on home surveillance video, police said.

Bail was set at $20,000 for Carlos Pacheco, 24, of Pukalani. He was charged with attempted first-degree burglary.

The burglary was discovered shortly after midnight April 26 when a Makani Road resident returned home and noticed items out of place on his patio, police said. The resident reviewed his home surveillance system and saw a man attempting to break into the residence minutes before he had returned home, police said.

Police officers identified the suspect as Pacheco, who was arrested Tuesday, police said.

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Steak knife assault nets arrest

A 46-year-old Kihei woman was arrested for assaulting another woman with a steak knife during a fight at their residence Wednesday night, police said.

Tracy Kuhaulua was charged with second-degree assault and abuse. She was released after posting $2,000 bail.

Police were called to the residence at Piilani Gardens at 7:42 p.m., said Lt. Jayson Rego of the Criminal Investigation Division. Both Kuhaulua and the 46-year-old victim were intoxicated when they got into an argument, he said.

Kuhaulua grabbed the steak knife and used it to hit the other woman in the head, Rego said.

The victim was transported to Maui Memorial Medical Center, where she was treated for a laceration to her head as well as injuries from being punched in the head, he said.

*****

Fire at home behind Wailuku restaurant

A house at the rear of the Saeng’s Thai Restaurant in Wailuku caught fire Thursday afternoon, fire officials said.

At 11:54 a.m., fire crews responded to 2119 Vineyard St., finding one of the bedrooms on fire, said Fire Services Chief Lee Mainaga. The blaze was under control at 12:03 p.m. and extinguished shortly thereafter, he reported.

Although the incident’s cause was undetermined, it was “most likely an accidental fire,” Mainaga said.

Fire damage was estimated at $12,000 to the structure and $3,000 to its contents. No injuries were reported.

In a separate incident, fire crews responded to a brush fire adjacent to Grace Bible Church in Kahului on Thursday afternoon, fire officials said.

The quarter-acre fire was reported at 2:41 p.m. at the intersection of Hina and West Hawaii streets, Mainaga said. The blaze consumed dry grass, brush and green waste, and it was under control at 3 p.m. and extinguished 42 minutes later. The fire’s cause was undetermined. No damage or injuries were reported.

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Penny increase for gas prices in Wailuku

Wailuku’s unleaded gasoline sold for an average of $4.58 per gallon, an increase of a penny over a week ago, according to the weekly AAA Hawaii Gas Watch report.

The Maui price was 7 cents more than last month and 30 cents less than a year ago.

Statewide, the average price of regular unleaded gas was $4.36, a penny more than a week ago, 2 cents more than last month and 15 cents less than a year ago.

Honolulu residents paid an average of $4.24 for gas, one cent less than last week, the same price as last month and down 11 cents from a year ago. Hilo residents bought gas for an average of $4.39, 3 cents more than last week, 2 cents more than last month and 26 cents less than last year.

The gas watch is a snapshot of gas prices as of Thursday, derived from fleet vehicle credit card transactions.

Local News

County / In Brief

Alleged copper thief collared in Kahului

A man was arrested for theft of copper after he was seen dismantling a condenser early Sunday behind a Kahului business, police said.

Benjamin Aktchian, 50, who gave no local address, was charged with theft of copper and second-degree criminal property damage. His bail was increased to $10,000 during his initial appearance Monday in Wailuku District Court.

Police were called after security officers observed Aktchian behind Minit Stop on South Wakea Avenue at 2:50 a.m. Sunday. He was seen taking apart the condenser, which is used in refrigeration, to remove more than 1 pound of copper, police said. Damage to the condenser, which was to be repaired, was estimated at $1,600.

The copper could have been sold for about $2 a pound, police said.

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Government offices to close for holiday

State and county offices will be closed Tuesday in observance of King Kamehameha Day.

All public libraries will also be closed, along with county pools.

Residential trash collections will follow their regular schedule.

The Hana and Molokai landfills will be closed. The Lanai and Olowalu landfills will be open from 8 a.m. to noon.

The Central Maui Landfill and EKO Compost will be open from 6 a.m. to noon.

The Maui News business office will keep its normal hours, open from 8 a.m. to 4:15 p.m.

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Native planting event set Sunday

Residents and visitors are invited to plant hundreds of native plants from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sunday at Hanakaoo Beach Park in Lahaina.

The planting will help beautify the cemetery slope next to the park also known as Canoe Beach and help reduce the amount of runoff reaching the ocean via Wahikuli Gulch.

Participants should bring gloves, garden tools, sunscreen and a water bottle. Breakfast and lunch will be provided. Volunteers will receive giveaways.

The planting celebrates the launch of “West Maui Kumuwai” campaign, which challenges residents to make simple choices at home or in their yard to reduce the amount of pollution that reaches the ocean.

Local News

County / In Brief

Work to shut off water in Wailuku

Ongoing waterline replacement work will shut off water for some Wailuku customers from 7 p.m. Wednesday through 6 a.m. Thursday.

Customers affected are those on Loke and Nani streets; on Kaniela Street from Main to Vineyard streets; Mission Street from Lower Main to Vineyard streets; and on Vineyard Street from Kaniela Street to its east end.

Loke and Nani streets will be open for local traffic only.

The work is part of a capital improvement project to replace waterlines on Nani, Loke, Wailani and Kaniela streets in Wailuku.

Customers may want to flush their waterlines for a short time Thursday morning to ensure that no sediment has accumulated in their waterlines during the project. Affected customers are advised to store water for the night if needed.

Customers are requested to call the 24-hour service line at 270-7633 only if a water problem occurs.

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Meeting to focus on Mala boat ramp

A public meeting to discuss state plans for the Mala boat launch ramp project will be held from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. today in the Kamehameha III Elementary School cafeteria in Lahaina.

The $892,000 project will involve replacing two existing concrete loading docks, a portion of the launch ramp and the area approaching it. Plans also call for parking lot and other improvements.

West Maui Rep. Angus McKelvey and West and South Maui Sen. Roz Baker will attend the meeting with state Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation staff and representatives of contractor Goodfellow Bros. Inc.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources aims to meet with boaters and boat ramp users to determine the best two-month closure period for construction work and how to mitigate public impacts during the closure.

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Grenade on side of road disposed of

An Army Explosive Ordnance Disposal team safely removed a grenade Monday from the shoulder of Hansen Road, which was reopened after being closed for about a day, police said.

The grenade was discovered near the Hana Highway portion of Hansen Road, which was closed after police officers responded to a call reporting the discovery at about 12:24 p.m. Sunday.

The road was closed from Hana Highway to Pulehu Road before being reopened at about 12:15 p.m. Monday. Later, the Army team was moving the grenade to the Ukumehame Firing Range to be safely detonated.

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High-surf advisory lasts into Thursday

A high-surf advisory has been issued for Maui County’s south-facing shores until 6 a.m. Thursday.

National Weather Service forecasters said that a large south-southwest swell would build Monday night and this morning and peak with 8- to 12-foot waves today and Wednesday.

For more information, call (866) 944-5025 or go online to www.prh.noaa.gov/hnl.

Local News

County / In Brief

Governor releases funds for projects

Gov. Neil Abercrombie released $21.8 million for airport and highway projects state-wide Thursday, including more than $7 million for Maui projects.

The Valley Isle projects included:

* $4.75 million for repaving a portion of Kahului Airport’s Runway 2-20 to comply with Federal Aviation Administration requirements.

* $1.25 million for technical studies and an environmental impact statement for proposed runway improvements at Kahului Airport.

* $1,019,000 for Kekaulike Avenue drainage improvements in Upcountry.

* $100,000 for Kapalua airport aircraft rescue and firefighting station expansion.

“Our state’s economy is growing stronger, and it is important that we maintain this positive momentum by continuing to invest in priority capital improvement projects, particularly those maintaining and upgrading our transportation infrastructure,” Abercrombie said.

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Wailuku gas price rises by a penny

Wailuku’s average price for regular unleaded gasoline rose a penny this week to $4.57, which is 6 cents more than last month and 31 cents less than the price at the same time last year, the AAA Hawaii Weekend Gas Watch reported Friday.

The Maui price is again the highest among three areas reported in the watch’s weekly snapshot of gas prices.

Statewide, the average price this past week was $4.35, a penny less than last week, a penny more than last month and 18 cents less than a year ago. In Honolulu, motorists were paying an average of $4.25 per gallon for unleaded gas, a cent less than last week, the same price as last month and down 13 cents from last year. In Hilo, the average price was $4.36, down 4 cents from last week, 3 cents more than last month and 30 cents less than a year ago.

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Man arrested in selling of marijuana

Lahaina patrol officers arrested a Kahului man who admitted he had been selling suspected marijuana near Banyan Tree Park this week, police said.

Daniel Tapaoan, 50, was charged with promoting a controlled substance in or near a school or public park. His bail was set at $10,000.

According to police records, Tapaoan was arrested at 4:46 p.m. Wednesday.

Lahaina patrol Lt. William Gannon said “proactive work by a patrol officer” led to the arrest. In addition to being near the park, the drug sale occurred in the area of nearby King Kamehameha III Elementary School, Gannon said.

The felony charge applies to drug distribution within 750 feet of a school, school vehicle or public park.

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County seeks bids on traffic signals

Maui County is seeking licensed contractors to bid on the installation of traffic signals at the intersection of Kamehameha Avenue and Kane Street in Kahului.

The project is expected to cost between $500,000 and $1 million.

A pre-bid conference is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. June 20 at the Department of Public Works’ Engineering Division office on the fourth floor of the Kalana O Maui building in Wailuku.

Aside from the installation of traffic signals and roadway modifications, the project includes making sidewalk improvements and restriping pavement.

Eligible bidders must be licensed contractors.

Bids will be opened on July 10.

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National park overlook to close

The Leleiwi overlook at Haleakala National Park will be closed for a week for repaving and disabled access improvements from Wednesday through June 12, according to an announcement.

For more information, see the park’s website at www.nps.gov/hale.

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Workplace safety focus of meeting

The topic of why safety in the workplace matters and related issues will be discussed at the noon Monday meeting of The Rotary Club of Kahului at Cafe O’ Lei at the Dunes at Maui Lani.

The speaker will be Gordon Gillis, an occupational safety and health/safety engineering consultant with Pacific Safety Solutions & Swinerton Builders. His talk will address the value of keeping everyone safe and the cost/benefit to the employer as well as issues with workers’ compensation.

The meeting is open to the public. Lunch costs $20, or there is a $5 program fee charge.

For more information, contact club President Robert Kawahara at 244-5531.