Maui News

The first humpback whale sighting in Maui County waters this season was reported yesterday morning off the eastern coast of Lana’i. A pair of humpbacks was sighted at 8:35 a.m. about 2 miles off the coast by the raft, Great White.

Governor Neil Abercrombie today announced a leadership transition for some of his closest staff. Chief of Staff Amy Asselbaye, and Deputy Chief of Staff Andrew Aoki, have both resigned. Bruce Coppa, currently the State’s Comptroller, has since been named the Chief of Staff.

The Charter Commission plans to begin decision-making at its upcoming meeting on Monday, on what proposed charter amendments should be placed before the public.

The session will share information on available solar technologies, what systems are best for homes and businesses, and how to navigate through the numerous tax credits available.

A man wanted by the Government of American Samoa for the alleged rape of a 13 year old student, was arrested by the FBI last night in Honolulu.

Local business and community leaders agreed to be “arrested” for having a “big heart” as part of the annual MDA Lock-Up fundraiser held Wednesday, October 5, at the Kahului Ale House restaurant on Maui.

Nāmuʻo’s contract expires on July 31, 2012, but he has decided on an early departure, targeted for early 2012. In preparation for the change, OHA Trustees this morning approved a process to initiate a search for a new CEO, which is anticipated to unfold over the course of the next three to five months.

A Honolulu man, convicted of exposing himself via webcam to a 14 year-old girl in Australia, has been sentenced to nine months in prison.

The free training provides marine tour operators and community volunteers with up-to-date knowledge and interpretive skills to properly educate visitors about Hawaii’s unique marine environment.

A portion of Baldwin Avenue is closed this afternoon following a traffic accident that downed cable lines in the area. At 2:20 p.m., on Wednesday, October 5, Maui Police closed Baldwin Avenue between Kaluanui Road and Makawao Avenue.

The realistic exercise, conducted as a certification requirement by the Federal Aviation Administration, tests airfield disaster preparedness and response by simulating the crash of a commercial airliner.

The flag raising ceremony was held in celebration of Filipino-American History Month this October.

The housing complex, formerly known as Kuhio Park Terrace, is currently undergoing a $135 million renovation. More than 100 residents are returning today to renovated units that have since been completed.

A fire mauka of Hanakaoo Beach Park burned an estimated 1.5 acres on Tuesday afternoon. The brush fire also forced the closure of a single north-bound lane on the Honoapiilani Highway for about two hours.

The announcement coincides with the beginning of ticket sales, which began October 3rd. Tickets are $99 each and available through the MACC.

The Maui Mall is calling for entries to its “Maui Mall Memories Photo & Art Contest” in celebration of the its upcoming 40th Anniversary.

The featured athletes explain the dangers of bullying and encourages students and communities to help promote campus safety.

The statewide Aloha For Japan campaign formally ended this month, with a total of $8 million raised through partner charities over a six month span.

Maui Economic Opportunity Chief Executive Officer Lyn McNeff will be the featured guest on the upcoming edition of Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa’s community television show.

Attendance at the 89th Maui Fair was up 3% from last year with more than 92,700 people passing through the gates over four days, according to Fair Managing Director Sherri Grimes.