It’s the police lineup we’ve all been waiting to see: the seven finalists to replace the embattled Louis Kealoha as Honolulu’s police chief.

It’s a somewhat diverse lot. Of the four from the HPD, only one is on active duty, and she’s also the only woman candidate: HPD Maj. Susan Ballard.

Of the others, two have served on mainland police forces, while the third has a federal law enforcement background.

Whomever the Honolulu Police Commission chooses, the new chief should be someone who sets high ethical standards for his or her officers, and demonstrates a commitment to openness and transparency with the public and the press.

More tourists, more money for the rail

Hawaii tourism is on pace for a record-breaking year. Through the first eight months, some 6.3 million visitors have touched down, spending slightly more than $11.3 billion — up by 5 percent and 9 percent, respectively, over last year’s arrivals and spending figures.

While this trend might mean more congestion in Waikiki and other must-see sites, it also adds up to more money flowing into the statewide transient accommodations tax. And that’s welcome news for the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation, which is now tapping the hotel-room levy to help complete the cash-strapped 20-mile rail line.