Maui gets $6M for ferry port expansion

The federal government has awarded Maui County more than $6 million to help expand the Maalaea ferry port on the Valley Island.

The announcement was made in a news release Friday in Washington by Sen. Daniel Inouye.

Inouye says refurbishment of the dock at Maalaea Small Boat Harbor will create a second port, increasing overall ferry system capacity between Maui and Lanai.

The Hawaii Democrat says a second ferry port will allow residents and visitors greater access to the recreational and economic opportunities of each island.

Inouye says an increase in passenger capacity is exactly what businesses on both islands need during tough economic times.

Hilo attorney barred from practicing

A 57-year-old Hilo attorney was suspended from the practice of law effective Sept. 22.

The state Supreme Court suspended Curtis T. Narimatsu after finding evidence he may have violated the Hawaii Rules of Professional Conduct and poses a substantial threat of serious harm to the public, according to a news release issued by the Office of Disciplinary Counsel.

The court ordered Narimatsu to notify each of his clients in pending litigation or administrative proceedings and the attorneys for each adverse party in such matters or proceedings of his suspension.

Narimatsu, a graduate of Antioch School of Law, was admitted to the Hawaii bar in 1977.