All Hawaii News

Military beefing up in Hawaii, no drug testing of welfare recipients, three quit charter school board in protest, gambling proposed on Hawaiian lands, Internet tracking bill unpopular, bag fee in the works, land fund headed to Hawaii County ballot, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

2012-01-27T06:38:00.000-10:00


Pohakuloa Training Area (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Hawaii's military future could include another Navy cruiser and at least 1,000 more Marines if some forces are removed from Okinawa. Star-Advertiser

Sen. Daniel Inouye said on Thursday that he expects “an increase of military personnel and assets” in the Pacific, including in Hawaii. Inouye’s remarks came after Defense Secretary Leon Panetta outlined his department’s budget plan for the next five years. Civil Beat.

A host of bills before the State Legislature are dedicated to women veterans this year. KHON2.

Once again, Hawaii state and county government agencies spent far more money lobbying in Washington D.C. than private companies did, according to 2011 U.S. Senate lobbyist disclosure reports. Hawaii Reporter.

State Rep. Mele Carroll has reintroduced a bill that would allow gaming on Hawaiian homestead lands to provide a source of funds for the Department of Hawaiian Home Land's developments and programs. Maui News.

Two Maui law makers are introducing separate gaming measures in the state legislature this session. Maui Now.

Spurred by a dramatic rise in computer-related crimes — including possibly affecting one of their own colleagues — lawmakers have introduced more than 30 measures in the Hawaii Legislature concerning cybercrime. Civil Beat.

State lawmakers decided Thursday to leave online piracy legislation to Congress after hearing vehement opposition to a bill that called for keeping records of Hawaii users' Internet activity. Associated Press.

Internet privacy advocates, web entrepreneurs and business owners turned out in droves on Thursday to denounce a bill before the Hawaii Legislature that would require Internet service providers to keep a record of every website visited by subscribers for no less than two years. Civil Beat.

Hawaii won't be drug testing public assistance applicants and recipients any time soon. Associated Press.

State politicians are running some old plays this week in an effort to convince the NFL that the Pro Bowl belongs in Hawaii. Pacific Business News.

The Legislature is considering a statewide measure to have consumers pay for plastic and paper shopping bags. Hawaii Public Radio.

Consumers Could Be Charged for Plastic and Paper Bags. Civil Beat.

"Bag ban" could go state-wide & include paper. Hawaii News Now.

Credit monitoring and fraud restoration services will be provided to about 98,000 University of Hawaii students, alumni, faculty, employees and others potentially affected by five data breaches that occurred from 2009 to 2011, under a settlement reached in a class-action lawsuit. Star-Advertiser.

Federal data show cutting Hawaiian monk seals free from fishing nets, moving vulnerable pups away from preying sharks and other efforts to rescue the animals are significantly helping the endangered species. Associated Press.

Oahu

The city will agree to a new change order worth about $15 million to pay the company holding the contract to build the first segment of the rail line because of delays in the start of construction, according to officials with the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation. Star-Advertiser.

Inspectors from the Hawaii Department of Agriculture (HDOA ) have identified a snake killed on Wednesday near Honolulu airport as a bullsnake. Hawaii News Now.

Longtime Hawaii television newsman Jack Kellner died Wednesday night in California. KITV4.

Hawaii

Three longtime members of the Charter School Review Panel — Chairman Carl Takamura, former Chairwoman Ruth Tschumy and Pualani Akaka — resigned Thursday to protest the state Board of Education's reversal of the panel's decisions on converting Laupahoehoe School to a charter school. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii County voters will once again get the opportunity to weigh in on a 2 percent land fund, now that Mayor Billy Kenoi has signed a bill putting it on the ballot. West Hawaii Today.

Big Brother is watching — but he is supposed to be helping. West Hawaii Today.

Some day, a new gym on the Hilo High School campus will give students, athletes and their fans the chance to enjoy games at home. Tribune-Herald.

Oahu-based military units will convoy from Pohakuloa Training Area to Kawaihae Harbor on Saturday, Monday, Wednesday and Thursday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. via Saddle Road, Mamalahoa Highway, Waikoloa Road, Queen Kaahumanu Highway and Akoni Pule corridor. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Staffing levels at Maui's only Veterans Affairs clinic are at 50 percent, resulting in long waits for veterans who need care, officials acknowledged Tuesday. Maui News.

Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa expressed enthusiasm as the state Legislative session gets underway. Maui Now.

Southerly winds are expected to prevail through today, and volcanic haze, or vog, should continue to hang in the air Friday and start to clear up Saturday, National Weather Service forecaster Vic DeJesus said Wednesday. Maui News.

Kauai

In 2011 Kauai’s beaches and surfbreaks were mostly clean, but some were definitely not. Garden Island.

In response to the growing trend of crimes perpetrated against the elderly, Kaua‘i County Prosecuting Attorney Shaylene Iseri-Carvalho will be holding several senior fraud presentations across the island. Garden Island.

The Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement has joined other national community advocates in an amicus (friend of the court) brief to be filed with the U.S. Supreme Court in support of the Affordable Care Act. Garden Island.

Molokai

Department of Land and Natural Resources is holding a community meeting regarding the security perimeter at the Kauanakakai Wharf to accommodate American Safari Cruises visits to Molokai. Molokai Dispatch.

GOP Lingle almost triples fund-raising of closest rival Hirono, UH prof caught in x-rated escort sting, Education leaders detail plans, HGEA grumbles about contract, emergency contraception bill advances, appeals court upholds Mauna Kea plan, Maui's Papapawahawa Bridge opens Friday, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

2012-01-26T06:47:00.002-10:00

Former Hawaii Gov. Linda Lingle

Former Gov. Linda Lingle, in a display of national fundraising prowess, has raised more than $1.7 million since she announced her Republican campaign for the U.S. Senate in October. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii may not be known for its Republicans, but the first fundraising figures out of former Hawaii Gov. Linda Lingle's campaign for U.S. Senate shows that Republicans are committed to changing the balance of power in the aloha state. Civil Beat.

Former Congressman Ed Case said in a statement that he raised “substantially less” money last quarter than U.S. Senate opponents Linda Lingle and Mazie Hirono. Civil Beat

State education leaders sought to reassure lawmakers Wednesday about the future of Hawaii's $75 million Race to the Top grant, saying they are making gains and plan to seek more clarity about the kind of progress federal authorities want to see in order to take the grant off "high-risk" status. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Department of Education leaders described the state's school district as a deteriorating house at a legislative briefing Wednesday, and their Race to the Top plan as the remodeling program for that house. Civil Beat.

Hawaii's public schools superintendent said Wednesday she hopes the state makes headway on adopting new teacher evaluations by the end of March, when U.S. Department of Education officials are scheduled to visit the islands for an update on the state's progress with Race to the Top reforms. Associated Press.

Taken For A Ride: Roberts Hawaii's Very Own Race to the Top of School Bus Biz. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Government Employees Association officials have told PBN they may file a complaint with the Hawaii Labor Relations Board because Gov. Neil Abercrombie’s administration has failed to advance talks regarding the favored nation clause of the union’s contract. Pacific Business News.

The state appeals court has upheld the approval of a University of Hawaii-developed management plan for Mauna Kea. Tribune-Herald.

The House Committee on Judiciary passed a measure (House Bill 127 House Draft 1) that would require hospitals and health care providers to provide information about emergency contraception to women who have been sexually assaulted, and to dispense the medication when requested. Hawaii Reporter.

It’s difficult to tell how many people experience homelessness. Nevertheless a national count is done at this time every year attempting to measure how many people are without homes. Hawaii Public Radio.

State roundup for Jan. 26. Associated Press.

Oahu

An x-rated local escort service called “The Volcano Girls” is being operated out of the Waikiki residence of University of Hawaii Professor Lawrence W. Boyd, Jr. Hawaii Reporter.
http://www.hawaiireporter.com/university-of-hawaii-professor-tied-to-x-rated-escort-service/123

Food trucks and lunch wagons would have two hours to operate at one location on a street before being required to move, under a proposal in the City Council that aims to ease a law that made it difficult for some vendors to operate legally. Star-Advertiser.

A bill that would allow lunch wagons and other street vendors to remain at a single location for two hours instead of fifteen minutes passed the first of three required readings Wednesday at the Honolulu City Council. KHON2.

The principal at August Ahrens Elementary School, a second school administrator and a teacher have been placed on leave while the state Department of Education investigates an allegation of financial impropriety. Star-Advertiser.

North Shore residents demand solution to 'Turtle Beach' traffic. Hawaii News Now.

The city has spent more than $1.87 million and hired seven private law firms to handle legal work related to its rail project. Star-Advertiser.

The State Department of Agriculture says road crews working on Nimitz Highway near Honolulu Airport killed a two foot snake Wednesday morning. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

The Hawaii Tourism Authority has approved spending more than $1 million this year for Big Island programs, sporting events and festivals. Tribune-Herald.

After sitting fallow for the last 18 years, 718 acres of Hawaii County's Paauilo lands are closer than ever to being returned to productive agriculture. Tribune-Herald.

An illegal ferret was captured early Sunday morning in the parking lot of Coqui's Hideaway Restaurant & Sports Bar in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Of the three options for repairing the main runway at Kahului Airport, the most expensive was overwhelmingly preferred at a standing-room-only public meeting Monday, because it would not require a temporary shutdown of Mainland flights. Maui News.

Project challenges several layers thick. Maui News.

The new Papapawahawa Bridge in East Maui opens this Friday, January 27, 2012, following eight months of construction. Maui Now.

A $2.3 million project to replace Papahawahawa Bridge is nearly complete, the county Department of Public Works announced. Maui News.

Maui County officials say they are in the process of closing a three-mile stretch of shoreline near Wailea-Makena after a shark sighting Wednesday afternoon. KITV4.

Kauai

How can the Garden Isle grow green jobs? Garden Island.

Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. and other local leaders Wednesday greeted the first planeload of visitors from Shanghai as part of an effort to increase island visits from China. Garden Island.

Abercrombie, NFL skirmish over Pro Bowl, Hawaii lawmakers tackle minimum wage, open meetings, political commmittees, pension fund, GOP seeks candidate for Congress, Honolulu mulls property taxes, Kona coffee labeling proposed, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

2012-01-25T06:41:00.001-10:00


Hawaiian monk seal, NOAA courtesy photo

A proposal to expand federal protections for the endangered Hawaiian monk seal is facing major push back from the state. Civil Beat.

A bill moving through the state Legislature could increase Hawaii's minimum wage for the first time since 2007, but opinions are mixed as to whether elevating the wage floor would help or hinder Hawaii's economic recovery. Associated Press.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie compared Pro Bowl negotiations to having a gun held to the state's head by the NFL, but later said, "We would like to continue to have (the game) and we're going to do everything we can to make sure that comes about in a fashion that will make everybody very, very happy." Star-Advertiser.

NFL flags Hawaii governor’s Pro Bowl comments . Pacific Business News.

Governor Neil Abercrombie made a surprise visit to the NFL’s Pro Bowl kickoff news conference to speak glowingly about the relationship between Hawaii and the NFL, after criticizing NFL owners earlier in the day. KITV4.

Hawaii political committees that can raise and spend unlimited amounts of campaign money would be required to disclose the candidates their expenditures are attacking or supporting under a proposal moving through the Legislature. Civil Beat.

Hawaii lawmakers are entertaining amendments to the state Sunshine Law to allow board members to attend public meetings, community events and professional association conferences without violating the open meetings law. Associated Press.

Lawmakers will be briefed on the state of the Race to the Top program on Wednesday. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Electric Co., and its subsidiaries on Maui and the Big Island, would no longer be allowed to generate electricity if they wished to sell it under a proposed bill from Rep. Denny Coffman. West Hawaii Today.

A Hollywood hit is shining the spotlight on Hawaii's film industry. "The Descendants," which was shot in Hawaii, has captured five Oscar nominations. Lawmakers hope to cash in on the movie's success by attracting new productions to the islands. Hawaii News Now.

A recent report shows that Hawaii's public pension fund ranked at the bottom among comparable funds for its investment returns over the past decade. Civil Beat.

The state Department of Human Services says it has introduced a new food stamps benefits processing system to address an applications backlog. Associated Press.

House Speaker Calvin Say and Senate President Shan Tsutsui said yesterday they are opposed to tax increases even though the State Council on Revenue lowered its state revenue projects by $130 million. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii GOP Still Looking For CD2 Candidate. Civil Beat.

Obama's Blueprint for Energy, Defense Could Mean Jobs in Hawaii. Civil Beat.

State roundup for Jan. 25. Associated Press.

Oahu

The City Council might consider reforms of some property tax exemptions, but reducing or eliminating the standard exemption for Oahu's 144,000 homeowners would be a tough sell to the public in an election year, the Council's budget chairwoman says. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council Budget Committee conducted a special public hearing yesterday on a controversial recommendation by an Advisory Commission to repeal nearly all of the property tax exemptions for O’ahu owners. Hawaii Public Radio.

Gambling proponents are eyeing the convention center as a possible venue to allow gaming in the state. KITV4.

Honolulu Mayor Peter Carlisle likely will seek Honolulu City Council approval for a "contingency plan" to raise additional funding for the Honolulu rail project if that becomes necessary. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Zoo is under fire over the entrance fee it charges students on school field trips. KHON2.

Hawaii

A group of Kona coffee growers hopes legislators pass a bill that would require businesses to more thoroughly describe the contents of coffee sold in Hawaii -- a change that critics claim would increase the price. Star-Advertiser.

American Motorists Insurance Co. will pay $12.5 million to Hawaii County as part of a proposed settlement agreement a series of lawsuits regarding the stalled Hokulia development. West Hawaii Today.

The jobs are coming back, but so are the job-seekers. Tribune-Herald.

Farmers, agricultural experts and educators gathered Tuesday in Hilo to help map the future of Hawaii's agricultural industry and attract workers needed to run it. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii Board of Education cleared the way Tuesday for the Laupahoehoe charter school to open its doors in July. Tribune-Herald.

The state Board of Education overruled the Charter School Review Panel for a second time Tuesday and ordered that Laupahoehoe High and Elementary School open as a charter school for the 2012-13 academic year. Star-Advertiser.

Maui
A standing room only crowd gathered at the Pomaikai Elementary School Cafeteria on Maui for an evening meeting on Monday to discuss runway rehabilitation options at the Kahului Airport. Maui Now.

The Hawai‘i State Department of Labor & Industrial Relations announced today that the non-seasonally adjusted annual unemployment rate for Maui County in December was 7.3% for 2011, down from 7.4% in December 2010. Maui Now.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie received praise Monday for supporting an extension of television and film production tax credits, alternative energy development and investment in the state's building projects in his State of the State address. Maui News.

Kauai

A Kaua‘i native who prepared oral arguments for the U.S. Supreme Court last November was very pleased to see a unanimous decision in his favor on Monday. Garden Island.

After Jan. 29, Red Box kiosks will be the only way for Kaua‘i movie lovers to grab a last-minute new release on the go. Garden Island.

Abercrombie's State of the State emphasizes recovery, $2.8M for fired Honolulu whistleblower, federal judge cites Hawaii for slow food stamp processing, rail tax better than expected, Honolulu wages average, governor, teachers union mull contract failure, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

2012-01-24T06:26:00.002-10:00


Gov. Abercrombie's 2012 State of the State address, courtesy photo

Gov. Neil Abercrombie said Monday that Hawaii has weathered the most difficult choices needed to balance the budget, urging lawmakers to leave the drama of the past few years behind and consider targeted investments to improve the state's economic future. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie told the state Legislature on Monday that it's time to move forward and leave behind the drama of the recent past, saying lawmakers have an opportunity to maintain economic momentum, bolster education and help provide older Hawaii residents better access to long-term support. Associated Press.

The State’s Chief Executive says the worst of the Great Recession is behind us…and he’s committed to moving forward … Hawaii Public Radio.

"We have started to turn the corner," Governor Neil Abercrombie said while delivering his State of the State address Monday at the State Capitol. Hawaii News Now.

Governor Abercrombie pledged Monday to keep Hawaii on the path of economic recovery during his second State of the State address. KHON2.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie said Monday that he is asking state lawmakers for $10 million to consolidate all of Hawaii’s state technology under one office, and for another $2.9 million for the state’s Broadband Initiative. Pacific Business News.

In his State of the State address, Neil Abercrombie made sure the Hawaii Legislature — especially leaders Calvin Say and Shan Tsutsui — understands his gratitude. Civil Beat.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie in his State of the State address Monday touched on one of Hawaii's hottest topics — sustainable and renewable energy. West Hawaii Today.

Governor Neil Abercrombie reiterated his request for the Hawaii State Teachers Association to provide a new proposal for a contract in his 2012 State Of The State Address Monday. KITV4.

Hawaii House Republicans Respond to Governor's State of the State. Hawaii Reporter.

One Year Later - 2011 State of the State Scorecard. Civil Beat.

Governor Neil Abercrombie delivered his second state of the state address this morning, touching upon early childhood education, investment in infrastructure and moving forward on the state’s broadband initiative. Maui Now.

A federal judge has issued preliminary injunction against the state of Hawaii for failing to process food stamp applications quickly enough. Civil Beat.

The state will provide seed money to help the Queen's Medical Center quickly launch an organ transplant facility to replace the one closed in the Hawaii Medical Center's bankruptcy. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Supreme Court wants the state Reapportionment Commission to get out of court and get back to work, according to a tersely worded order filed Friday. West Hawaii Today.

The leader of Hawaii's teachers union said Monday he should have given members more time to consider a six-year proposed contract they overwhelmingly rejected last week, and has been "humbled" by the vote. Star-Advertiser.

"I cannot think of a single thing we did not do to try to accommodate the concerns of the teachers union in this agreement," Gov. Neil Abercrombie said at a press conference last week about the vote by Hawaii teachers to reject a tentative contract with the state. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii chapter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving is calling the first year of the state's ignition interlock law a success. Tribune-Herald.

State roundup for January 24. Associated Press.
Oahu

The half-percent excise tax surcharge levied on Oahu residents and visitors has brought in more than $810 million so far to fund the Honolulu rail project, with collections continuing to run ahead of projections, the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation said Monday. Star-Advertiser.

Paychecks for workers in Honolulu fall somewhere in the middle when compared to 405 other metropolitan areas in the nation. Pacific Business News.

A woman who said she lost her job with the city for blowing the whistle on wrongdoing nearly ten years ago has been awarded a $2.8 million settlement by the Honolulu City Council. Hawaii News Now.

A 2010 report commissioned by the Department of Environmental Services shows the city could recuperate tens of millions of dollars every year by charging Oahu residents for regular trash pickup. KHON2.

Hawaii

Seven Hawaii County Council candidates have so far filed declarations of intent to seek public funding as the second election year of the three-election-cycle pilot program begins. West Hawaii Today.

Hunters and their supporters took to a Hilo street Monday to protest a state plan to ban hunting within 4,800 acres of public forest located south of Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Students attending summer classes at the University of Hawaii Maui College will benefit from a reduction in tuition, following action taken by the university's Board of Regents last week on Kauai. Maui News.

The last in a series of community outreach meetings hosted by the Maui Charter Commission takes place this Wednesday in Pukalani. Maui Now.

Maui County could streamline the way it grants millions of dollars to nonprofit agencies and eliminate the volunteer Grants Review Committee under changes being considered by the administration and County Council. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. will hold two community outreach meetings this week. Star-Advertiser.

An update on the Victim Witness Program requested by the Kaua‘i County Council to the Office of Prosecuting Attorney last week turned into a heated, four-hour discussion, marked by the recusal of one council member and repeated interruptions for discussions with attorneys. Garden Island.

More than two dozen people spent a couple of hours removing two large chunks of derelict netting which washed ashore during the recent storm at a Wailua beach. Garden Island.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie's 2012 State of the State Address: “Investing Now for Hawai'i’s Future”

2012-01-23T10:15:00.000-10:00

“Investing Now for Hawai'i’s Future”
State of the State 2012
The Honorable Neil Abercrombie
Governor, State of Hawai'i
January 23, 2012
(as prepared)

Mr. President, Mr. Speaker, former Governors, distinguished justices of the courts, mayors, representatives of our Congressional Delegation, members of the Hawai'i State Legislature, other elected officials, honored guests, family and friends. Aloha.

One year ago, I stood before you to present the sobering fiscal reality facing Hawai'i. At that time, we faced an enormous deficit and the effects of fractured government services. The discussion was not about “whether” we needed to find additional revenues, but about “where” we needed to find them.

But by working together and through shared sacrifice, we have started to turn the corner. This past year has not been easy but we have accomplished our purpose.

I want to thank the Legislature for your collaboration.

Thank you to the public for weathering through those difficult choices.

Thank you, especially to our state employees, who agreed to labor savings and additional payments for health benefits.

There was no way for us to have balanced our budget and achieved today’s fiscally favorable outlook without the commitment of everyone. To all of you who came to work each day bearing the burden of cuts and slashes to your programs for the past three years; and to those of you who gave up furloughs because of your commitment to serving Hawai'i’s people, I thank you. Mahalo plenty to each and every one of you.

Together, we are moving forward. And moving forward means leaving behind the drama of the recent past.

It is for that reason that I have again, requested that the Hawai'i State Teachers Association provide us with a proposal as soon as possible. After good faith negotiations achieving two agreements, the teachers still have not ratified a contract. I will continue to press for a resolution.

Nonetheless, we must continue our focus on our children and students’ performance. We cannot wait any longer. We wanted to cross the Race to the Top finish line side-by-side with the HSTA. Make no mistake we will cross that finish line. Our students deserve no less. We will be using all management, administrative, legislative and legal tools we have at our disposal to implement an evaluation system that not only measures, but achieves student growth; turns around low-performing schools; and supports teachers in increasing their effectiveness.

Just as we must concentrate on providing for our children’s future, it is critical that we continue the economic momentum we have achieved. Since last year, Hawai'i’s recovery has been steady.

·        The visitor industry – a key element – saw 3.4 percent growth in the number of visitor arrivals, and total visitor expenditures have grown by 15.1 percent, resulting in an additional $5 billion dollars flowing into Hawai'i’s economy.
·        A solid indicator of our growth is the average 8 percent increase in our general excise tax revenue compared to last year.
·        Despite the unfortunate closing of Hawai'i Medical Center, our unemployment remains one of the lowest in the nation.
·        Payroll employment increased 1.3 percent after three years of decline.
·        Initial unemployment claims declined 8 percent in 2011.
·        Bankruptcies dropped 15.9 percent.

Nonetheless, my budget team and House and Senate fiscal committees have warned, we must remain wary of the current national and European economic uncertainties, which continue to loom ahead. Earlier this month, the Council of Revenues projected a 3 percent decline in our revenue forecast, which amounts to $130 million.

The question then, is how do we address what could be a daunting fiscal picture.

Last year, when the revenue projections plummeted, we met the enormous challenge of our shortfall through shared sacrifice and collaboration. We instituted fiscal prudence and discipline, through tools provided by the Legislature. The result was a general fund balance of $126 million. This was the first positive balance achieved in three years.

Despite this budget success then, current fiscal uncertainties swirling around us mean that our supplemental budget proposal must reflect continued discipline. Through our strong management of resources in 2011, we were able to achieve nearly $86 million in general fund savings. It is these savings that we will use to propose initiatives that will support and strengthen our economic recovery.

The first is construction. All the signs show that private investment and construction appears hesitant and tentative. Therefore, it is the public sector that must step up to invest in repairs and maintenance, construction projects and infrastructure improvements. By aggressively putting these projects into action, we will ensure that job creation continues.

Our recent bond and refinancing sale of nearly $1.3 billion, along with $1 billion of projects that are already on the budget books and another $300 million proposed in this supplemental budget will spur an immediate rise in job growth.

These New Day Work Projects were chosen because they not only address critical infrastructure needs, but more importantly, they are primed and ready to go. We looked for projects that were not mired in permitting delays, or only in design and planning stages, but those that are ready to provide impact now.

After my initial discussions with the House and Senate, I know that we are all committed to looking at an aggressive budget schedule for these repair and maintenance construction projects. I am committed as well to working with you to make sure that we have a healthy and strong construction budget and a solid plan to continue our investment in our economy.

But, investment is not only about immediate impacts to the economy. It is about our long term vision towards the future. A prime example is the proposed Pohukaina project that is designed around the consolidation of mixed-use and mixed-income. To curtail sprawl and protect our precious available lands, we must focus on urban density and provide working families affordable housing opportunities. This is a central project, and the first step in future plans for further smart development along the 'Iwilei to Waikiki corridor.

Not only is it important to emphasize brick and mortar, we must also build an infrastructure for technology to meet the demands of the 21st century. This is the intellectual and social infrastructure that we must have to provide opportunities and experience for our people to become an advanced workforce that can compete in the global marketplace.

We will move forward on our Hawai'i Broadband Initiative by requesting $2.9 million to enhance online services for eHawaii.gov, advance research for transpacific fiber landing stations statewide, and initiate a “one-to-one” laptop program for Hawai'i’s public schools, to provide laptops for every student. Not only are these advances needed, but they are crucial in ensuring Hawai'i’s global connectivity and technological advancement.

We will also be seeking to move oversight of telecommunications to the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs. Telecom will now be regulated by one agency, rather than having multiple functions spread out over multiple departments.

Similarly, we are moving forward on our comprehensive plan to consolidate all of our state technology under the Office of Information Management and Technology, led by Hawai'i’s first Chief Information Officer. For this important mission, we are requesting $10 million.

Finally, in this area of our economic future, we must never forget that we need to invest in being proper stewards of our Hawai'i nei. We must nurture our environment, not only because it is pono, but because it is an essential investment for kama'aina and visitors alike.

It is for that reason that I am proposing that we invest $5 million in protecting our watersheds. If we are going to nurture the ahupua'a of every island, if we are to keep our oceans blue, then we must save Hawai'i’s forests and preserve our water resources.

Paradise is our home, it needs our devotion and care.

Our islands attract travelers from around the world. So too, the film industry also depends on showcasing the beauty and variety of our aloha state. We’ve seen what these islands can look like on big screen and television. Having top-rated television shows and award-winning films like “The Descendants,” speaks volumes about Hawai'i as a television/cinema venue.

It is for that reason that we will be requesting the legislature look at the TV and Film Tax Credit with the intention of drafting necessary changes in making it permanent.

All of our work comes down to one underlying purpose – to serve Hawai'i and its people. I mean it broadly and inclusively. It is part of our culture and our history. We are one 'ohana, one family, one state. So, we create programs, establish services and pass laws to meet that obligation. In short, we best care for our people by investing in them.

That investment begins with our youngest children. Early childhood education lays the foundation for a lifetime of learning and results in productive citizens who will someday manage our businesses, build our homes and offices, welcome our visitors, care for the sick, make new discoveries in science, and lead us into the future.

We are at a crossroads when it comes to early childhood education. For too long, we have continued old patterns that treated early education as something that is optional, a luxury for only those few who have the means.

“Research shows that 85 percent of a child’s brain development takes place before the age of five and that children who have quality early experiences are more likely to graduate from high school, attend college, and contribute positively to the economy. Yet, many of Hawai'i’s children are entering school unprepared. It’s time to invest in our children, and invest in our future, so that our state can thrive.”

This observation from Be My Voice Hawai'i, illustrates without equivocation that early education is not just an option, it is a fundamental necessity if we are to set the broader educational stage for our children. It is not just about learning to read and write, it establishes healthy attitudes towards learning that will stay with them throughout their lives. We also know that early education greatly enhances a young person’s sense of self-worth and confidence that, in turn, positively affects learning.

Early childhood education must be the initial step on the education ladder. Failure to act now virtually ensures that our children will fall behind. If they are not our priority, then we no longer know the meaning of the word.

The state’s Early Childhood Coordinator Terry Lock has put together a team to create a unified framework. This early education plan for the state will be the guide for building a stronger quality early care and education system for our youngest children and their families.

Investing in the next generation is the wisest decision that we can make as a people. And make no mistake – it is an investment with long-term returns that will far outweigh initial costs.

Last session, I forwarded difficult proposals to address difficult times. In stark contrast to one year ago, as a result of tough-minded administrative and legislative action, the state finds itself in an all-too-rare financial situation of not having to pay for debt or to balance the budget by raising taxes.

We will continue on this path of strong fiscal management and strategic financial investments, as indicated in Opening Day remarks by President Tsutsui and Speaker Say.

We now have the luxury of weighing solutions to behavioral and societal issues on their own merit. We can ask ourselves what will be most effective and do the most good for our children without the distraction of having to balance the budget on a new tax program.

The fact remains that the link between sugar-sweetened beverages and health is undeniable. I have proposed the establishment of a task force, with members from the public and private sectors, to identify and then implement a solution to this very real health issue in our state. The group’s objective will be navigating us away from the path that has led obesity rates in Hawai'i to have doubled in the last 15 years. Sadly, more deaths and illnesses have occurred from chronic diseases than from contagious diseases in Hawai'i.

As our Director of the state Department of Health recently noted, obesity is not just about losing weight for our children… “It is a deadly accurate predictor of cancer, heart disease, stroke, diabetes and other mental and physical ailments” that can follow our children throughout their lives.
For these early childhood education and health initiatives, we are requesting $1 million.

As important as these issues are for our children, the issues affecting our kupuna are growing in importance in conjunction with their numbers. Last year, the first of the Baby Boomers reached retirement age. Hawai'i acutely felt this demographic shift not only because of their sheer numbers, but also because Hawai'i enjoys one of the highest life expectancies in the nation.

That is why I am proposing $1.4 million to begin to create one-stop shops across the state for information on aging, to assist all of our kupuna who face the challenges of aging and restricted mobility. We are working with federal, county and community partners to establish Aging and Disabilities Resource Centers, which will serve as a single point of entry for all long-term care support and services in the state. The centers will streamline eligibility determination, minimize the need to navigate multiple bureaucracies, and facilitate informed choices about long-term care.

But this initiative to ease access to services is only the start. We need to have a further and deeper conversation about long-term care. Seniors want to age in their communities, they want to age in their homes. But more importantly, they deserve to do so. And they deserve to do so with dignity. That is why I am committed to strengthening our system of home- and community-based services. Their needs can no longer, and should no longer, be ignored.

The sudden shut down of two Hawai'i Medical Center hospitals on 'Oahu at the start of this year emphasizes this issue and had widespread ramifications through the medical community and the state, including those who suffer from kidney-related illnesses.

An emergency appropriation for a grant of $1.8 million to the National Kidney Foundation of Hawai'i will support this important health service. We pledge to help those who have stepped forward in the private sector to ensure that the people of Hawai'i have crucial medical care and expertise.

Our state Department of Labor and Industrial Relations immediately provided rapid response services to employees at both Hawai'i Medical Center worksites, giving them information on applying for unemployment benefits, health insurance options, potential workforce training programs and other services.

We appreciate all the assistance the department has received in putting together these opportunities, which will help workers transition. In Hawai'i, we must think of ourselves as 'ohana first.
This spirit of aloha is deeply rooted in the diverse cultures of these islands. We must never forget that it is the culture of our Native Hawaiians that we so proudly share with ourselves and the world. The recent settlement in principle with the Office of Hawaiian Affairs directly addresses ongoing issues that have remained unresolved for decades. The proposed settlement transfers about 25 acres in Kaka'ako to the Office of Hawaiian Affairs. OHA can use that resource to immediately benefit Native Hawaiians. In turn, the proposal provides approximately $200 million in value to settle claims against the state. More importantly, it brings closure to this longstanding rift allowing both the Native Hawaiian community and the state to move forward. It is my hope that this heals old wounds.

We have also begun to make progress in one of the biggest challenges faced by our community – homelessness. A coordinated approach and strong desire to help people has been the basis of a multi-pronged effort to assist the homeless in Hawai'i – to provide not only temporary shelter for those who need it but to help them to become productive citizens.

We have and we will continue to invest in the potential of those who are currently homeless. In July 2011, I signed an executive order that established the Hawai'i Interagency Council on Homelessness, a 24-member council comprised of community leaders, state department directors, and federal agency representatives to develop a unified plan on addressing homelessness. The Council aligns its efforts with the U.S. Interagency Council on Homeless, established by President Obama in 2009.

Led by the state’s first Coordinator on Homelessness, Marc Alexander, the council worked to bring together a patchwork of organizations that are now seamed together as a single quilt to meet their goals of 1) increasing transitional and permanent housing options, and 2) acquiring increased federal funding.

All these initiatives are not only about saving or spending money or programs and projects. It is about "how" to spend precious taxpayer dollars. A key example of this is the Justice Reinvestment Initiative. The data is clear that from 1997 to 2010, violent and property crime has steadily decreased by nearly half. Despite these improvements in public safety, the incarceration population has remained the same. We must change the way in which our laws work, change the way in which the system works, so that we can make a clear distinction between those who need to stay in prison to keep the public safe versus those who present little risk. But, we must also provide proper and consistent supervision to those who are released so that we act with dispatch when any offender fails to take advantage of the opportunity offered for a productive life.

After an unprecedented collaboration between the Governor’s Office, Justice Department, Public Safety Department, key lawmakers, the Judiciary and The Council of State Governments Justice Center, we will be proposing legislation that improves the criminal justice system utilizing the most up-to-date strategies. And we will do this with existing resources.

And when we talk about “how” we spend our money, we must ask ourselves about why we continue to send billions of dollars a year outside of our islands to meet our energy needs.

Two weeks ago, Tesoro Corporation announced it would be selling its refinery here in Hawai'i. This news was not a surprise. Over the years, I have indicated we are at risk given the rising cost of crude oil and the severity of speculation in the global oil market. I know that there is uncertainty for current employees at Tesoro as it starts the process of seeking an appropriate buyer. Our Department of Labor and Industrial Relations stands ready to provide job assistance for those who need it.
I also know there is uncertainty for those who are wondering what the sale of the state’s largest refinery means for the cost of fuel in the state. Well, Hawai'i has never had control over the high cost of energy. So, one thing is certain – and you have heard this before – we must lessen our dependence on imported oil.

This is not just an issue about sustainability. This is about the survival of our state. In moving forward on our path to advance a clean energy future, failure is not an option. Reducing our dependence on imported oil will take an equal commitment by government, business, community, family and individuals. We can no longer view energy production or distribution in an island-by-island context. We must be united on a statewide basis. My administration is committed to clean alternative and renewable energies for the benefit of all of our islands.

In November, I signed two international agreements that demonstrate that commitment.
The first was signed during the APEC Summit with the Vice Chairman of the China Council for Promotion of International Trade to pursue mutual interests in clean energy development. This year, we will continue to build upon that relationship and, by April, I hope to have a more defined memorandum of understanding to advance projects that will result in business opportunities.
I signed a second agreement with Japan-based New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO) to collaborate on building a first-of-its-kind smart grid demonstration project on the island of Maui.

For this project, Hitachi, NEDO and Mizuho are investing $37 million in advanced smart grid technology to improve integration of variable renewable resources into the electrical grid.
These agreements mark Hawai'i’s emergence as the test bed of the Pacific for clean energy demonstrations and clearly indicate the promise that energy projects offer for economic growth.

Currently there are about 80 renewable energy projects that are demonstrating progress in becoming commercial enterprises that have the potential to help the State of Hawai'i achieve its collective energy goals. This Administration will continue to look at every option – wind, solar, natural gas, photovoltaic, geothermal, biofuels, ocean energy and other technologies. We will be aggressive but respectful in our approach to our island environment.

These projects are just the first step, and in the next few months we will be unveiling a comprehensive roadmap for the state, beginning on Hawai'i Island, for building a world leading, sustainable economy standing on our people’s history of self-sufficiency in both food and energy. It is time for us to work together to put willpower to our resources and make this a reality for the state.
That is why I have assigned Lt. Governor Brian Schatz to coordinate and support our energy priorities. We must stay the course when it comes to advancing our clean energy future and ensure that collaborative decisions are being made. Swift and appropriate regulation must take place, as well as healthy competition and local entrepreneurship, community involvement and integration.
The time of sustainability rhetoric is over. Bold action is needed now. We must address two critical issues to position ourselves for increasing use of alternative energy – reliability and infrastructure.

While Hawai'i has an abundance of natural resources to tap into, the system cannot maintain itself solely with sources that shift with changing winds or the sun hiding behind the clouds. The system demands a clear measure of reliability of energy to feed into the grid. Therefore, one of my primary energy initiatives will be to provide the Public Utilities Commission with the explicit authority to develop, adopt and monitor electricity reliability standards. This will include jurisdiction over how independent power producers connect to the grid. Currently, while the PUC can take on issues through its formal docket process, there is no comprehensive authority to oversee reliability standards. To ensure that we have control over the reliability of the energy feeding into the system, we need to give the PUC this authority.

But more importantly, we need to create the infrastructure for stability. This means making the long-term infrastructure investments that ensure our electric grids are stable, reliable and modern enough to integrate alternative and renewable energy technologies. Our investment now will benefit future generations. Had we made this commitment in years past we would be benefitting from it today.

One of those investments is an undersea cable that can connect our island grids to provide stable, reliable electricity between islands. This integrated grid will provide stable energy prices and equalize rates between the islands, which will benefit all of us. To pay for this critical piece of infrastructure, we are proposing legislation that will attract private capital resources and expertise. In today’s uncertain world, we cannot postpone Hawai'i’s clean energy future any longer. We can only get there if we move now. There is no legislation more critical to our future.

I assure you, the energy debates that will take place this session will echo the debates that took place here when I was a legislator in these chambers in the 1970s. Let us not repeat a history of failure to act in 2012.

Whether these initiatives are aimed at reducing our dependence on fossil fuels, or to assist and uplift the homeless, or to help our kupuna or our children, all represent wise and prudent investments in our people. The cost of not taking action now will most certainly result in higher costs not only in dollars, but in social dysfunction as well.

I am deeply grateful to Speaker Say and President Tsutsui for clearly recognizing and delineating the opportunity to work together on these issues in their respective Opening Day remarks.
With the theme of “Pupukahi I Holomua – Unite to Move Forward,” they specifically referenced the main objectives – growing a sustainable economy, investing in people and transforming government. I want to extend my pledge to members of both the House and Senate here assembled, to work collaboratively with you as we serve all our constituents.

I know for many it is hard to see beyond today’s needs when today’s needs loom so large and immediate. But unless dealt with now, today’s challenges can only multiply in difficulty. This is not acceptable. We have the obligation to make a better future for our children. We live in paradise and taking care of each other is a value that is fundamental to the aloha spirit. This is about having aloha for one another and doing what is pono.

I want to close then with something that exemplifies what aloha for each other is all about. At one point when the way forward was not always clear, Representative Karen Awana gave me a note, the essence of which was “A'ohe Hana Nui Ke Alu 'Ia” – no task is too big when done together by all. I keep it in my desk for those times when I can use a little reminder of the meaning of aloha for each other. Her kindness and goodness is truly aloha in every way.
I pledge my aloha to you all in that spirit. Mahalo nui.

Hawaii bridge report in, Honolulu nation's least affordable housing, Department of Hawaiian Homelands seeks new Maui prison, big security presence allows yacht to dock on Molokai, fired election workers sue Hawaii County, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

2012-01-23T06:29:00.001-10:00

With 756 state-owned bridges in Hawai‘i, the Senate Committee on Transportation and International Affairs is taking a closer look at the condition and integrity of the structures. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii is the only state in the country that doesn't have a law requiring drivers to give police, EMS or any freeway responder room on the roadway. KHON2.

Performance pay linked to annual evaluations was often cited by Hawaii teachers as one of the key reasons for rejecting a proposed 6-year contract with the state. Civil Beat.

The University of Hawaii is looking for people to participate in a study with New York’s Cornell University to develop foods that can be used on a mission to Mars. Pacific Business News.

The Hawai‘i Children’s Trust Fund partnered with the Joyful Heart Foundation to begin a statewide public awareness campaign called “One Strong ‘Ohana.” Garden Island.

State roundup for January 23. Associated Press.

Oahu

The Honolulu City Council routinely introduces bills and resolutions with multiple cosponsors despite a state law that bars members of public boards from discussing board business outside of public meetings. Civil Beat.

Last year Honolulu Mayor Peter Carlisle told a radio audience that Honolulu's rail project had "too much momentum" to be stopped. Now former Gov. Ben Cayetano plans to put Carlisle's claim to the test, and is running for mayor with the stated intention of killing the $5.27 billion rail project. Star-Advertiser.

This promises to be a wild year in Honolulu. Civil Beat.

Police Chief Louis Kealoha bowed his head before a memorial erected to patrol officer Garret Davis on Sunday, then implored Oahu drivers to be more careful — especially when officers are doing their jobs. Star-Advertiser.

A study of 325 metropolitan areas worldwide says Honolulu is the least-affordable housing market in the United States. Star-Advertiser.

A former Hawaii state senator announced Sunday that he's running for a Honolulu City Council seat. KHON2.

Hawaii

Alleging they were wrongly fired, two former Hawaii County senior elections officials on Friday asked for $500,000 apiece to settle a defamation claim and offset their emotional suffering. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii County administration has made an end run around the County Council by soliciting bids for recycling services without the council's blessing. West Hawaii Today.

Jack Hash thought he was getting an idyllic setting, but a multiyear battle over a neighbor's illegal home has him regretting the move, contemplating selling and wondering where's the building enforcement. Tribune-Herald.

A magnitude-5.0 earthquake and several small aftershocks shook the Big Island on Sunday, but there were no reports of injury or damage. Associated Press.

Maui

Runway options would halt Mainland flights for weeks. Maui News.

The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands is taking the lead in resuscitating what had been an estimated $235 million project to build an 843-inmate, minimum- and medium-security prison in Puunene. Maui News.

Maui County could streamline the way it grants millions of dollars to nonprofit agencies and eliminate the volunteer Grants Review Committee under changes being considered by the administration and County Council. Maui News.

Lehuanani Huddleston-Hafoka of Kihei said she'd save about $560 a year in bus transportation to send her two children to Maui High School in Kahului if a high school were built in South Maui. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

Where did you sleep last night? This is the question volunteers across Kaua‘i will be asking starting Tuesday through Jan. 29 when the Kaua‘i Community Alliance, a member of a Neighbor Island continuum of care called Bridging the Gap, oversees the annual Point in Time homeless count, states a news release from Catholic Charities Hawai‘i. Garden Island.

Molokai

In 30 years of community activism, Molokai's Walter Ritte Jr. said he never saw anything like Saturday at dawn at Kaunakakai Harbor: about 80 cruise ship protesters matched up against at least twice as many county, state and federal officers. Maui News.

Nearly 50 U.S. Coast Guard personnel, as well as dozens of county, state and federal law enforcement guarded a security zone around Kaunakakai Harbor for the return of American Safari Cruises’ yacht Safari Explorer last Saturday. Molokai Dispatch.

There was no blockade on the water for the American Safari Explorer, a 36-passenger tour boat as it pulled into port at Kaunakakai Harbor at 7:30 a.m. Saturday. KITV4.

Strike looms as Hawaii teachers nix contract, former Gov. Cayetano to run for Honolulu mayor, new stamp bears aloha, new doors stymie Capitol visitors, electric cars for Hawaii County, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

2012-01-20T06:25:00.000-10:00


Gov. Abercrombie at aloha shirt stamp unveiling (courtesy photo (c) Ricky Li)

New aloha shirt postcard stamps depicting Hawaii's beauty and spirit were unveiled Thursday at the main post office at Honolulu Airport. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii public school teachers voted against a six-year proposed contract Thursday, leaving in place a months-long labor dispute with the state. Associated Press.

Teachers overwhelmingly voted down a proposed six-year contract Thursday that would have tied wage increases to performance starting in July 2013. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii teachers delivered a stunning message Thursday. By a 2-1 margin, they rejected a proposed six-year deal that had the unanimous backing of union leadership.Civil Beat.

Members of the Hawaii State Teachers Association have rejected a proposed six-year contract with the state. About 9,000 of the 12,500 teachers, counselors, and other covered by proposed deal voiced their opinion by voting at polling places around the state Thursday. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii's public school teachers voted overwhelmingly against a proposed contract 67 to 33 percent. KITV4.

"The message is clear, they do not want this contract. I cannot speculate on the outcome but we will find out what the situation is," said Wil Okabe, HSTA President. KHON2.

The state’s teachers voted no Thursday on a new contract following months of negotiations, surprising one Kaua‘i teacher. Garden Island.

The head of the Navy told sailors Thursday that the Asia-Pacific will be the service's focus in the future, and he views Hawaii as the gateway to the region. Associated Press.

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs has named its research director, Kamanaopono Crabbe, to be its new chief executive officer. Star-Advertiser.

Governor Neil Abercrombie and state lawmakers gathered for Mass Thursday as part of a tradition in Hawaii for more than half a century. KITV4.

The state Reapportionment Commission spent more than $600,000 on redistricting plans that have since been invalidated by the Hawaii Supreme Court, a Civil Beat review of the commission's expenses shows. Civil Beat.

Neither the state nor officials of the Hawaii Employer-Union Health Benefits Trust Fund plan to introduce legislation to begin addressing the massive $14 billion in unfunded liabilities taxpayers owe for public-employee retiree health benefits. Civil Beat.

Gas prices in Hawaii are once again on the rise, with the average price of a gallon of regular unleaded rising by 3 cents over the past week to $4.07, according to AAA Hawaii’s Weekend Gas Watch. Pacific Business News.

An estimated 154,000 jobs could potentially be provided as a result of the president’s Executive Order to ease access for international travelers to visit Hawaii and the rest of the United States. Maui Now.

New glass doors installed at the state capitol over the holidays have lawmakers and capitol visitors wondering why. KITV4.

State Roundup for Jan. 20. Associated Press.

Oahu

Former Gov. Ben Cayetano entered the 2012 race for mayor Thursday, vowing to kill the city's $5.27 billion rail transit project while acknowledging his anti-rail campaign might go against the political idealogy of some longtime supporters. Star-Advertiser.

Ten years after the nation's first Filipino governor left politics, former Gov. Ben Cayetano, 72, is back in the arena, doing something that most former governors — save California's Jerry Brown — would never do: run for a lesser office. Civil Beat.

As fiery as ever, Former Hawaii Gov. Benjamin Cayetano held a press conference on Thursday at Cycle City in Mapunapuna where he announced his candidacy for Honolulu Mayor. Hawaii Reporter.

Former Governor Ben Caytenano made it official today and threw his hat in the ring for Honolulu mayor. Hawaii Public Radio.

Ben Cayetano officially announced his candidacy for Honolulu mayor today. Hawaii News Now.

Former Hawaii governor Ben Cayetano announced his bid Thursday to run for mayor of the City and County of Honolulu. KITV4.

The race for Honolulu mayor got a lot more interesting Thursday after former Hawaii Governor Ben Cayetano ended weeks of speculation and announced he’s entering the race. KHON2.

In a surprising move, the owners of Aloun Farms have come out in support of a controversial large-scale development in Ewa that would displace their farm and its 180 employees. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

The West Hawaii Civic Center will soon become home to Hawaii County government's first electric cars, as the county begins its foray into new technology for its fleet. West Hawaii Today.

Company files discharge permit for proposed ahi farm. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Saying drug activity was the top concern of residents in West Maui, police reported arresting 111 people for 305 drug offenses in the Lahaina Patrol District last year. Maui News.

Kauai

The University of Hawai‘i board of regents Thursday joined Kaua‘i Community College officials for the opening of the college’s new Ho‘ouluwehi, the Sustainable Living Institute of Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

Subdued opening day for Hawaii Legislature, leaders' speeches promote austerity, public records, plastic bag fees, gambling among top topics, teachers union votes today, more government and politics news from all the Hawaiian Islands

2012-01-19T06:51:00.000-10:00


Hawaii Legislature (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

State House and Senate leaders, on a spartan opening day of the legislative session, said they would avoid new taxes and major spending increases but may invest in bond-financed construction projects to upgrade Hawaii’s aging infrastructure and hopefully create jobs. Star-Advertiser.

Slideshow: Hawaii Legislature's 2012 opening day. Pacific Business News.

Opening remarks

Senate President Shan S. Tsutsui
So, let us unite and move forward “Pupukahi I Holomua” with “The Invest in Hawaii Act of 2012,” the Governor's New Day initiatives, and all of the Senate's priorities to create a better Hawaii for today and the future. Text.

House Speaker Calvin Say
Let us be confident that our unselfish work of today will lead tomorrow to the Hawaii that we all dream about. Text.

Senate Minority Leader Sam Slom
Every day is a “new” day; it is time we make it a BETTER DAY for all of Hawaii’s people. Text.

House Minority Leader Gene Ward
We're world class and this session has the potential to prove it. Text.

The state Capitol came alive Wednesday as lawmakers, lobbyists and interest groups anxious to be heard gathered for opening day at the Legislature. Star-Advertiser.

State Senate leaders expressed bipartisan support for the "Invest in Hawaii Act of 2012," which sets forth an aggressive, $500 million capital improvement project package aimed at stimulating the economy. Associated Press.

In austere and abbreviated fashion, the Hawaii House of Representatives opened for business this morning, with Speaker Calvin Say stressing economic issues in his opening address.Hawaii Reporter.

The 26th State Legislative Session convened today at the Capitol. Celebrations this year were scaled back in both Houses to observe the continued slow economic recovery in the islands. Hawaii Public Radio.

The 2012 state Legislature opened Wednesday at 10 a.m. at the state Capitol in Honolulu without much of the pagentry of previous years. Garden Island.

A bill introduced last year in response to Civil Beat's publishing of state and city government salaries has resurfaced and will receive a hearing Friday. Civil Beat.

Protecting the state's water resources and imposing fees on plastic bags are already gaining attention from lawmakers and environmental groups this session. Civil Beat.

Gambling at top of opening lesiglative session issues. KHON2.

A task force assigned to perform an extensive review of Hawaii foreclosures presents its 2012 findings to state lawmakers Thursday. Hawaii News Now.

The public school teachers union says it might prepare for a strike vote or continue a legal challenge to a contract offer imposed in July if members do not ratify a proposed six-year pact today. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii public school teachers are preparing to vote on a proposed six-year contract to end a labor dispute that has contributed to placing a $75 million Race to the Top grant on "high-risk" status. Associated Press.

Hawaii's public school teachers will be voting on a proposed 6-year contract that includes moving to a performance-based compensation system. Associated Press.

State roundup for January 19. Associated Press.

Oahu

Honolulu rail planners are unlikely to request an extension to the general excise tax surcharge that's paying for the bulk of the project. Civil Beat.

Enforcing limits on chromium-6, a naturally occurring toxic chemical found in Oahu's drinking water, is a priority on the environmental health agenda for the state Legislature this session. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor Peter Carlisle proclaimed Wednesday "Hire Our Heroes Day" in support of a nationwide initiative to hire veterans and military spouses. KITV4.

A University of Hawaii at Manoa building is the first research laboratory in the state to receive the highest level Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, or LEED, certification. KHON2.

Hawaii

Hawaii County is facing a fourth straight year of lowered property tax collections, which will force additional cuts, Mayor Billy Kenoi wrote in a letter presented Wednesday to the state Legislature's two money committees. Tribune-Herald.

Bids for a long-anticipated roof repair in Honokaa have come in more than three times higher than county officials expected. West Hawaii Today.

The most recent results from Hilo Medical Center's patient satisfaction surveys show that the hospital continues to lag behind state and national averages in most key areas. Tribune-Herald.

Food grown in Hawaii has more than just perfect farm-fresh flavors, a visiting chef said Wednesday. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui County Council members endorsed more than $16 million in water infrastructure projects Tuesday, including plans to replace the aging Waikamoi flume. Maui News.

An old Navy landing craft broke loose from its mooring line and washed onto Sugar Beach in north Kihei on Tuesday morning. Maui News.

More than two dozen Hana residents reacted with enthusiasm and hope in helping shape an income initiative aimed at improving the economic well-being of Native Hawaiians in the area. Maui Now.

Kauai

Monk seal hospital closer to reality. Garden Island.

Kauai County workers won't accept green waste at the Hanalei, Kapaa and Hanapepe transfer stations due to safety concerns caused by muddy conditions in the drop-off areas caused by Tuesday's heavy rains. Star-Advertiser.

Molokai

Tsunami Debris Exploration Uncovers New Theories, More Questions. KITV4.

Hawaii Legislature opens to budget challenge, Hawaii County mayor signs bag ban bill, prison reforms could save money, OT killing pension plan, Honolulu Zoo needs more space for elephants, teachers union faces contract ratification, Kauai's Coco Palms in tatters, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

2012-01-18T07:01:00.000-10:00


Hawaii Capitol (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

The state Legislature plans a low-key opening day today while lawmakers look ahead to serious issues facing them during the 2012 session, such as economic recovery plans, job growth and funding for medical services. Associated Press.

State lawmakers will open a new session of the state Legislature this morning with brief speeches and little other fanfare, as they take a no-frills approach given the state's uncertain economic recovery. Star-Advertiser.

This time last year, lawmakers and the Abercrombie administration were scrambling for ways to shore up a nearly $850 million deficit that eventually swelled to $1.3 billion. Civil Beat.

Members of the Senate Majority Caucus unveiled their priorities today for the 2012 Legislative Session. Maui Now.

The board that oversees Hawaii's retirement system for state and county workers is unanimously backing a proposal to limit the amount of overtime and other nonbase pay used to calculate pensions for all employees, not just future hires. Star-Advertiser.

A proposal to reform overtime rules for Hawaii public pensions didn't get any blowback Tuesday. Civil Beat.

Trustees of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs saw their paychecks go up at the start of the current fiscal year — their third consecutive annual raise. Civil Beat.

The state could save more than $108 million over six years and eliminate the need to send prisoners to the mainland, according to an independent study that seeks to make Hawaii's criminal justice system more efficient. Star-Advertiser.

A national non-partisan research and policy analysis group completed a 7-month study of Hawai’i’s Criminal Justice System today. Hawaii Public Radio.

Proposed changes to Hawaii’s criminal justice system that would speed the release of numerous accused and convicted criminals from jails and prisons were outlined today at the state Capitol. Hawaii Reporter.

The Army will keep its force level about the same in Asia and the Pacific as the service looks to make cuts elsewhere, the chief of staff of the Army said. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Reapportionment Commission and the chief elections officer filed a motion for reconsideration on January 13, asking the Hawaii Supreme Court to review its January 6 ruling, which said the commission’s redistricting plan is “constitutionally invalid.” Hawaii Reporter.

The Hawaii State Teachers Association has vowed to withdraw its labor case against the state if teachers ratify a collective bargaining agreement reached earlier this month. Civil Beat.

As teachers prepare to vote Thursday on a proposed six-year contract, some are troubled about the deal, which includes a move in July 2013 to a performance-based compensation system that rewards "effective" teachers with raises. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's public school teachers are doing some math to figure out if their six-year tentative agreement adds up to a better deal than the state's imposed contract. Hawaii News Now.

The head of Hawaii's public schools is hopeful a new contract with teachers will be enough to remove Hawaii off the "high risk" list for Race for The Top grant money. KITV4.

On Thursday afternoon, Hawaii's public school teachers will head to polling sites across the state to vote on a new contract. KHON2.

The University of Hawaii wants an extra $15 million from the Legislature, in part for exceeding most of its performance goals. Civil Beat.

State roundup for January 18. Associated Press.

Oahu

An Oahu boat harbor damaged by the tsunami spawned by the March 11 earthquake in Japan will be getting more than $1.4 million in repairs. KHON2.

The Hawaii Community Development Authority is moving ahead on a long-stalled retail and residential high rise planned for the corner of Kapiolani Boulevard and Ward Avenue. Pacific Business News.

Honolulu Zoo took the No. 10 spot at In Defense of Animals' 2011 list of the "10 Worst Zoos for Elephants" on Monday. KITV4.

Hawaii

Hawaii County on Tuesday became the third county in the state to ban plastic bags at the retail checkout, when Mayor Billy Kenoi signed a bill putting the process into motion. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County has joined its two Neighbor Island counterparts in outlawing businesses' long-standing practice of providing free plastic shopping bags at the checkout line. Tribune-Herald.

Alternative building materials, such as structural bamboo, rammed earth and straw bales, have found a place in the international building code and the building codes of Hawaii and many other states. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii Board of Education has given itself one week to issue a decision concerning the disagreement between Laupahoehoe Community Public Charter School and its state oversight panel, which has said it intends to delay the opening of the school. Tribune-Herald.

A $5 million to $10 million roadway project on Kaiminani Drive could get under way by the second half of this year, the project's manager said. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

More than two dozen Hana residents reacted with enthusiasm and hope in helping shape an income initiative aimed at improving the economic well-being of Native Hawaiians in the area. Maui Now.

Lindsey says she’s set to be sworn in for OHA vacancy. Maui News.

Isle couple sue lender, cite unfair, deceptive practices. Maui News.

Kauai

One of Hawai‘i’s more cherished landmarks, Coco Palms Resort in Wailua, has gone from hero to villain in the last 20 years. Garden Island.

PAHIO Development announced Tuesday that asbestos mitigation activities will begin this month at Lihu‘e Sugar Mill, to be followed by the mill’s demolition, tentatively scheduled Feb. 20. Garden Island.

Molokai

The U.S. Coast Guard has established a temporary security zone for when an American Safari Cruises tour returns to Molokai this weekend. Associated Press.

Hawaii candidates enter federal races, Maui musician appointed to Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Hawaii County mayor mulls bag ban, economy, assisted suicide tax credits for film industry on lawmakers' plates, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

2012-01-17T06:51:00.001-10:00

Honolulu Councilwoman and congressional candidate Tulsi Gabbard with Gov. Neil Abercrombie, courtesy photo

In recent years, Honolulu Councilwoman and congressional candidate Tulsi Gabbard has undergone what she describes as a "gradual metamorphosis" on social issues. Civil Beat.

An Oahu counselor will take on a former governor and a perennial GOP candidate for the Republican Party's U.S. Senate nomination. West Hawaii Today.

Lawmakers will head back to the state capitol for the 2012 session on January 18. KHON2.

"It's the economy, stupid" — the mantra Bill Clinton used in his 1992 election to the presidency — is the theme most heard around the halls of the state Capitol this month. Civil Beat.

Members of Maui County's state House delegation want to put more wind in the sails of the state's economic recovery. Maui News.

An obscure 1909 law intended to ease suffering of Hansen's disease patients does not make physician-assisted suicide legal in Hawaii, according to an opinion by the state attorney general's office. Star-Advertiser.

Lawmakers are working on crafting a bill that'll give movie and TV productions larger tax credits. KHON2.

Hawaiian Electric Co. could be in the political crosshairs this legislative session when it comes to energy policy. Civil Beat.

Last year, the big education issues at the Hawaii Legislature were instructional time, school bullying and the appointed Board of Education. Civil Beat.

State Department of Education officials traveled to D.C. to discuss what needs to be done to keep 75 million dollars in Hawai`i’s public schools. HPR spoke with one member of the team who traveled to D.C. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Hawaii State Teachers Association has listed the polling places for members to vote to ratify a new six-year contract that includes a back-loaded pay raise and 50% contribution to medical insurance coverage seen in other state contracts. KITV4.

Military contractors and top commanders may have even more reason to be excited about all the talk of increasing the focus of U.S. military might the Pacific — it could translate to new construction work and additional troops in Hawaii. Pacific Business News.

State Roundup for Jan. 17. Associated Press.

Honolulu

Former Mayor Ben Cayetano will officially announce his candidacy for Honolulu mayor by the end of the week. Hawaii News Now.

Members of the Occupy Wall Street movement plan to gather Friday at the Prince Kuhio Federal Building in Honolulu and 79 other court houses across the country to rally against the Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission decision by the U.S. Supreme Court issued two years ago. Hawaii Reporter.

For several Hawaii teachers and their families, the birthday of Martin Luther King Jr. was more than a day off work and a chance to sleep in -- Monday was a chance to celebrate the life and legacy of the nation's most lauded leader of the civil rights movement. Star-Advertiser.

Neil Abercrombie was against the controversial Hoopili development before he was for it, according to environmentalists who said they met with him before the 2010 election. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

A bill banning plastic bags at the retail checkout stand will become law today if Mayor Billy Kenoi doesn't execute a last-minute veto. West Hawaii Today.

Median home prices fell across the island in 2011 to their lowest level in years. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Noted Hawaiian music performer Carmen "Hulu" Lindsey said Monday that she has been appointed by Gov. Neil Abercrombie to fill the Office of Hawaiian Affairs' vacant Maui seat. Maui News.

An advocate for people with disabilities said he's hoping to see Makawao's sidewalks become more wheelchair accessible - four years after he began working to bring about improvements. Maui News.

The State Department of Transportation will host a public meeting on Maui to discuss runway rehabilitation options at the Kahului Airport. Maui Now.

Kauai

Moviegoers saw a fair amount of the Garden Isle on the silver screen in 2011, but industry experts said Monday the Golden Globe-winning “The Descendants,” filmed partly on Kaua‘i, will boost tourism on the island. Garden Island.

First plantation, last homes. Tenants of a former Kauai sugar camp face eviction for a new development. Star-Advertiser.

The effect of genetically engineered foods on health and the environment is the topic of a free dinner and film presentation later this month in Kapa‘a. Garden Island.

Molokai

Hansen's disease survivors and National Park Service workers at the Kalaupapa Settlement say they will be traveling easier now that a new air carrier has started federally subsidized service to their isolated community at lower ticket prices. Star-Advertiser.

Cruise ships returning to Hawaii, state preps for legislative session, Yagong announces candidacy for Hawaii County mayor, security zone planned for Molokai harbor, 30 new citizens to be sworn in, Maui wants to replace flume, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

2012-01-16T06:38:00.000-10:00


Cruising in Hawaii (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

More people are setting sail for Hawaii. More than 104,000 travelers arrived in the islands on cruise ships -- mostly from the West Coast -- in the first 11 months of last year, according to the most recent data available. That's a 14.5 percent increase from the same period in 2010. Associated Press.

2012 Who's Who Legislative Guide. Star-Advertiser.

Expediting Hawaii's excruciatingly slow economic recovery will be a top priority for East Hawaii's all-Democratic legislative delegation, which returns to work on Wednesday. Tribune-Herald.

When asked what their priorities are for the legislative session starting Wednesday, Maui's three state senators had some different projects in mind but agreed that job creation will likely dominate their time. Maui News.

After their salaries are restored to 2009 levels in July 2013, Hawaii teachers would get a raise every year that they receive at least an "effective" performance rating, under a tentative contract with the state. Civil Beat.

Attorneys and advocates, academics and activists alike gathered Saturday to honor the life and legacy of University of Hawaii law professor Jon Van Dyke. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu

Thirty new American citizens will be sworn in by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services in Honolulu on Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Associated Press.

As part of today's Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebrations, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services will welcome 30 new U.S. citizens. Star-Advertiser.

City government offices will be closed on Monday, January 16, in observance of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, a federal and state holiday. KITV4.

A developer plans to spend more than $7 million to build nine big T-shaped breakwaters off Iroquois Point beach to protect a rental community, stop erosion and replenish sand fronting former Navy housing near the mouth of Pearl Harbor. Star-Advertiser.

A Wahiawa senior center remains in violation of federal grants rules, according to a Jan. 12 letter to Honolulu Mayor Peter Carlisle from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Civil Beat.

State Rep. Jo Jordan plans to return to an oft-flooded section of Puhawai Road in Waianae this morning with more than 60 volunteers to cut back branches and clear debris from an area that will undergo millions of dollars of flood-prevention work over the next several years. Star-Advertiser.

They call themselves the mangrove manglers. Members of the Kailua Canoe Club and several volunteers took to Ka'elepulu stream Sunday to clear-out the invasive trees, that are threatening their practice area. KHON2.

Hawaii

If Dominic Yagong had a slogan in his campaign for mayor, it would likely be, "Grr. How you gonna pay for it?" West Hawaii Today.

Surrounded by three generations of family members, County Council Chairman Dominic Yagong announced Saturday that he's running for Hawaii County mayor. Tribune-Herald.

Solid waste. West Hawaii Today.

In the short term, it costs a lot more to recycle than to just toss everything in the landfill. But landfill life is limited, and creating a new lined landfill under updated Environmental Protection Agency rules could run into the millions of dollars. West Hawaii Today.

At least $2.9 million of county money has been dumped into solid waste studies, plans and applications since 1990, a West Hawaii Today review of the county's trash history showed. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

County water department officials are asking for $13 million to move forward with a project to replace the aging Waikamoi Flume. Maui News.

Contractors are hoping to finish work on a $16 million overhaul of Maalaea Small Boat Harbor by this fall - five months ahead of schedule, the project manager said Friday. Maui News.

Kauai

The Hawai‘i Tourism Authority — in partnership with the counties of Kaua‘i, Hawai‘i, Maui and Honolulu — have selected more than 100 community and cultural events and programs to receive funding under its County Product Enrichment Program this year. Nineteen Kaua‘i County programs are among them. Garden Island.

The Pono Kai seawall, heavily damaged by Hurricane Iniki in 1992, was rebuilt a year later. Since then, forces of nature kept taking the sand fronting the wall and eroding its foundation until a replacement wall became the county’s choice rather than fixing it. Garden Island.

Molokai

The U.S. Coast Guard will enforce a temporary "security zone" around Kaunakakai Harbor when the Safari Explorer cruise ship resumes visits to Molokai this week. Maui News.

The State of Hawaii and Coast Guard will host a public meeting Tuesday about the security plan for when American Safari Cruises resumes port calls for Kaunakakai Harbor on Molokai. Pacific Business News.

The state of Hawai’i and the US Coast Guard will hold a community meeting to present the security plan for the resumption of port calls by American Safari Cruises to Kaunakakai Harbor on Moloka’i. Maui Now.

Following progress made on Molokai about the future of Kaunakakai Harbor, the state of Hawaii and the U.S. Coast Guard will hold a community meeting to present the security plan for the resumption of port calls by American Safari Cruises. Molokai Dispatch.

Why did the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. wear a lei on his famous 1965 march from Selma to Montgomery, his relationship with Akaka and other Hawaii ties of the great civil rights leader: a special report

2012-01-14T19:16:00.001-10:00


The Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and civil rights leaders wear lei during their 1965 march

Ever wonder why the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and other civil rights leaders on that famous march from Selma to Montgomery, Ala. wore lei? Turns out King had special ties to the Aloha State, and to the family of U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka, D-Hawaii.

It's altogether fitting that the Hawaii Legislature opens its annual session this week as the state and the rest of the nation commemorate what would have been King's 83rd birthday. King, in his 1959 address to a special session of the Hawaii Legislature, praised Hawaii for its ethnic diversity.

"We look to you for inspiration and as a noble example, where you have already accomplished in the area of racial harmony and racial justice, what we are struggling to accomplish in other sections of the country, and you can never know what it means to those of us caught for the moment in the tragic and often dark midnight of man’s inhumanity to man, to come to a place where we see the glowing daybreak of freedom and dignity and racial justice," King said in his address.

Five years after those words, King carried a bit of Hawaii to Alabama. That five-day, 54-mile march from Selma, where an Alabama state trooper had shot and killed church deacon Jimmie Lee Jackson, to the state capital, helped bring King to the forefront of the nation's imagination, spurring the cause of nonviolent protest that would be picked up and championed by an entire generation, fomenting the hope of equality for all mankind.

The lei were no artifice. King had strong Hawaii ties, from his 1959 address to the Hawaii Legislature to his relationship with the Rev. Abraham Kahikina Akaka, older brother of Sen. Daniel Akaka, D-Hawaii. Abraham Akaka, kahu (shepherd) of Kawaiahao Church in Honolulu, developed a close friendship with King when King came to Honolulu in 1964 to participate in a Civil Rights Week symposium at the University of Hawaii, according to Akaka's obituary in the Honolulu Star-Bulletin. Abraham Akaka later sent the lei to King as a gift, according to a 1991 article in Jet Magazine by Simeon Booker.

Here's the text of King's speech, as recorded in the Journal of the Hawaii House of Representatives:

The following remarks were made by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on Thursday, September 17, 1959 at the Hawaii House of Representatives 1959 First Special Session:

“Mr. Speaker, distinguished members of the House of Representatives of this great new state in our Union, ladies and gentlemen:

It is certainly a delightful privilege and pleasure for me to have this great opportunity and, I shall say, it is a great honor to come before you today and to have the privilege of saying just a few words to you about some of the pressing problems confronting our nation and our world.

I come to you with a great deal of appreciation and great feeling of appreciation, I should say, for what has been accomplished in this beautiful setting and in this beautiful state of our Union. As I think of the struggle that we are engaged in in the South land, we look to you for inspiration and as a noble example, where you have already accomplished in the area of racial harmony and racial justice, what we are struggling to accomplish in other sections of the country, and you can never know what it means to those of us caught for the moment in the tragic and often dark midnight of man’s inhumanity to man, to come to a place where we see the glowing daybreak of freedom and dignity and racial justice.

People ask me from time to time as I travel across the country and over the world whether there has been any real progress in the area of race relations, and I always answer it by saying that there are three basic attitudes that one can take toward the question of progress in the area of race relations. One can take the attitude of extreme optimism. The extreme optimist would contend that we have come a long, long way in the area of race relations, and he would point proudly to the strides that have been made in the area of civil rights in the last few decades. And, from this, he would conclude that the problem is just about solved now and that we can sit down comfortably by the wayside and wait on the coming of the inevitable.

And then segregation is still with us. Although we have seen the walls gradually crumble, it is still with us. I imply that figuratively speaking, that Old Man Segregation is on his death bed, but you know history has proven that social systems have a great last-minute breathing power, and the guardians of the status quo are always on hand with their oxygen tents to keep the old order alive, and this is exactly what we see today. So segregation is still with us. We are confronted in the South in its glaring and conspicuous forms, and we are confronted in almost every other section of the nation in its hidden and subtle forms. But if democracy is to live, segregation must die. Segregation is a cancer in the body politic which must be removed before our democratic health can be realized. In a real sense, the shape of the world today does not permit us the luxury of an anemic democracy. If we are to survive, if we are to stand as a force in the world, if we are to maintain our prestige, we must solve this problem because people are looking over to America.

Just two years ago I traveled all over Africa and talked with leaders from that great continent. One of the things they said to me was this: No amount of extensive handouts and beautiful words would be substitutes for treating our brothers in the United States as first-class citizens and human beings. This came to me from mouth of Prime Minister Nkrumah of Ghana.

Just four months ago, I traveled throughout India and the Middle East and talked with many of the people and leaders of that great country and other people in the Middle East, and these are the things they talked about: That we must solve this problem if we are to stand and to maintain our prestige. And I can remember very vividly meeting people all over Europe and in the Middle East and in the Far East, and even though many of them could not speak English, they knew how to say ‘Little Rock.’

And these are the things that we must be concerned about – we must be concerned about because we love America and we are out to free not only the Negro. This is not our struggle today to free 17,000,000 Negroes. It’s bigger than that. We are seeking to free the soul of America. Segregation debilitates the white man as well as the Negro. We are to free all men, all races and all groups. This is our responsibility and this is our challenge, and we look to this great new state in our Union as the example and as the inspiration. As we move on in this realm, let us move on with the faith that this problem can be solved, and that it will be solved, believing firmly that all reality hinges on moral foundations, and we are struggling for what is right, and we are destined to win.

We have come a long, long way. We have a long, long way to go. I close, if you will permit me, by quoting the words of an old Negro slave preacher. He didn’t quite have his grammar right, but he uttered some words in the form of a prayer with great symbolic profundity and these are the works he said: ‘Lord, we ain’t what we want to be; we ain’t what we ought to be; we ain’t what we gonna be, but thank God, we ain’t what we was.’ Thank you.”

At the conclusion of his address, there was much applause.

Hawaii Legislature ponders invasive species, bed bugs in state Kapolei building, lawmakers seek delay in unemployment insurance, Native Hawaiians have day in court, Caldwell jumps back in Honolulu mayoral race, Kauai has $57M budget surplus, safer motorcyclists for Maui, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

2012-01-13T07:07:00.000-10:00


Iolani Palace (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Native Hawaiians who believe they are citizens of the Hawaiian Kingdom — not the United States — nonetheless spent Thursday in an American court defending themselves against charges they trespassed on the grounds of their rightful seat of government, Iolani Palace. Civil Beat.

The state Reapportionment Commission plans to meet Jan. 20 to begin redrawing political boundaries, following a Hawaii Supreme Court ruling last week that invalidated new maps approved by the nine-member panel in October. Star-Advertiser.

Wary of undermining economic recovery, state House lawmakers want to forestall a scheduled increase this year in the unemployment insurance tax rate that would force businesses to pay $180 to $650 more for every employee. Star-Advertiser.

Teacher Agreement Better Than 'Last, Best and Final'? Too Soon To Say. Civil Beat.

Reptiles and other invasive species invaded the capitol today as part of a legislative briefing on environmental concerns. KHON2.

The biggest threat to the state’s economy, natural environment and the health of island residents, according to state lawmakers, comes from destructive plants and pests originating elsewhere. Hawaii Public Radio.

A wildlife revival around the Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands is giving scientists a glimpse of what the main Hawaiian Islands looked like thousands of years ago -- and researchers said Thursday they hope the environmental renaissance of sorts will spur similar endeavors around the world. Star-Advertiser.

State building hit by bed bug problem. KHON2.

State roundup for January 13. Associated Press.

Oahu

Former acting Mayor Kirk Caldwell, looking to reclaim the post permanently, wasted little time in criticizing the incumbent, characterizing Mayor Peter Carlisle's first year in office as little more than photo opportunities and traveling with a singular focus on pushing the rail transit project at any cost. Star-Advertiser.

Caldwell's First Promise: Soap In Bus Stop Bathroom. Civil Beat.

Former Hawaii Gov. Ben Cayetano is considering a run for Honolulu mayor at age 72 for one main reason: to stop the rail project. Civil Beat.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie has released $2 million in general obligation bond funds for the planning, design and construction of a flood alleviation project for Oahu's Waianae Coast. KITV4.

Up to 100 truckloads per day of used asphalt has been dumped at the site of a proposed cemetery in Hawaii Kai in the past several weeks, resurrecting environmental concerns about what is being stockpiled on the property. Star-Advertiser.

Kaneohe Pier Declared Unsafe. Officials Condemn Portion Of Main Access Pier To Coconut Island. KITV4.

Great white shark spotted off Oahu. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

The year 2011 ended on a soggy note in East Hawaii, but that was not enough to keep most of the Big Island from recording another year of below-average rainfall. Tribune-Herald.

North Hawaii Community Hospital has received $680,000 to improve its health information technology, joining a national health care industry trend to improve information technology. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Hawaiian Airlines is adding flights at Kahului Airport for both interisland and Mainland destinations, creating a "Maui hub" to improve connections. Maui News.

One of the leading Democratic candidates vying to replace retiring U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka decided to brown bag it to work Wednesday in Wailuku. Maui News.

A state-authorized motorcycle safety program will now be available on Maui with the opening of Hawaii’s newest motorcycle safety training site in Kahului. Maui Now.

An ordinance to prohibit alcohol consumption at the new South Maui Community Park in Kihei went into effect this week. KHON2.

Kauai

The County of Kaua‘i ended Fiscal Year 2011 on June 30 with a budget surplus of $57.26 million, according to the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report released Dec. 15. Garden Island.

Amanda Barretto has filed suit against a Kaua‘i elementary school and the state Department of Education in 5th Circuit Court on behalf of her 7-year-old child. Garden Island.

The mayor recognized Kamehameha Schools’ third-grade students in the Kali‘imamo Program on Wednesday afternoon for their participation in creating and dedicating a new bus shelter fronting Kapa‘a Neighborhood Center. Garden Island.

Election maps won't be ready in time, Hirono raises big bucks, Hawaii foreclosures halved, teachers to continue pay cut, 3-way Honolulu mayoral race heats up, papayas bound for Japan, Hawaii County fires election workers, Kauai grapples green waste, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

2012-01-12T06:41:00.000-10:00


U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono and Sen. Daniel Akaka campaign photo

U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono raised more than $624,000 during the past three months for her Democratic primary for U.S. Senate, her campaign announced today. Star-Advertiser.

Former U.S. Rep. Ed Case said Wednesday that he would bridge a "yawning chasm" between business and government, describing government as too intrusive and an obstacle to economic growth. Star-Advertiser.

Former Gov. Linda Lingle said Tuesday that she would work with members of both parties if elected to the U.S. Senate, but also said Hawaii would benefit from having a Republican in its congressional delegation. Maui News.

Maps for new House and Senate districts are not likely to be ready by Feb. 1, the day when candidates can begin filing for elective offices. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii teachers will see 5 percent pay cuts lifted after two years in exchange for annual evaluations and performance-based pay, if they ratify their tentative agreement with the state. Civil Beat.

Public school teachers would continue to take a 5 percent pay cut under a proposed contract but would move to a new salary schedule and evaluation system in July 2013 and would be eligible for annual pay raises based on their performance. Star-Advertiser.

Facebook and Twitter could become the virtual town square for spirited public debate if the state’s public information watchdog agency has its way. The Office of Public Information Practices has submitted two legislative proposals to Gov. Neil Abercrombie to be included in his administration’s package for the coming session, which begins next week. Civil Beat.

Rewards of up to $30,000, the largest of their kind in Hawaii, are being offered for confidential tips that lead to the arrest and conviction of whoever killed three critically endangered Hawaiian monk seals on Molokai and Kauai since November. Star-Advertiser.

The number of foreclosures in Hawaii dropped by half last year as lenders grappled with a state law that changed the way they could file nonjudicial foreclosures, according to new data from RealtyTrac. Pacific Business News.

Local Oil Expert Questions Hawaii’s Renewable Energy Market. KITV4.

Hawaii's papaya industry is now exporting the genetically engineered Rainbow papaya to Japan after the Japanese government approved commercial shipment of the fruit on Dec. 1. Tribune-Herald.
http://www.hawaiitribune-herald.com/sections/news/local-news/papayas-shipped-japan.html

Hawai’i small business owners participated in their 36th annual conference today on O’ahu. Hawaii Public Radio.

State roundup for January 12. Associated Press.

Oahu

A looming three-way race for Honolulu mayor poses a dilemma for voters, who could be forced to choose between allegiance to political party or their position on the biggest public works project in the city's history. Star-Advertiser.

Former Hawaii Gov. Ben Cayetano is considering a run for Honolulu mayor at age 72 for one main reason: to stop the rail project. Civil Beat.

A historic downtown building with a storied past may have a new chapter ahead in the arts, and it could have State departments on the move. KHON2.

A former Hawaii Pacific University administrative assistant was sentenced to five years probation for stealing more than $13,000 in school parking fees. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

Hawaii County has fired four elections workers, including the program administrator, following an investigation into alcohol storage and private business activities allegedly conducted at a Hilo elections warehouse. Tribune-Herald.

China and India are catapulting to the forefront of astronomy research with their decision to join as partners with the Thirty Meter Telescope, which will be the world's largest when it's built later this decade. Associated Press.

The Hawaii Board of Education has agreed to hear an appeal by organizers of the Laupahoehoe charter school, who claim that their charter has effectively been revoked by the school's oversight body. Tribune-Herald.

The Kealakehe Elementary School library will soon get air conditioning, and other Big Island schools will see other maintenance projects begin, after Gov. Neil Abercrombie released $14.2 million for capital improvement projects. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Former Hawaii governor Linda Lingle (R) began the first official day of her campaign for a seat in the US Senate by visiting some local businesses in the Haiku Cannery on January 10, 2012. Maui Now.

The Maui Planning Commission decided Tuesday that former interior designer Xorin Balbes can follow his dream after putting everything he has into renovating Makawao's Fred Baldwin Memorial Home to turn it into the Lumeria Maui educational retreat. Maui News.

Kauai

Two nonprofit organizations and an anonymous donor have teamed up to offer a reward of up to $30,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for the suspected slayings of at least three Hawaiian monk seals in the past two months. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i County officials are urging the public to remove green waste from plastic bags when delivering them to green waste drop sites at a county transfer station or the Kekaha Landfill. Garden Island.

Bloggers could lose shield law protection, feds mull defense, energy programs, lawmakers warned about gifts again, Tesoro sale could rattle state gas supply, cleaning up Oahu, Kauai has new clerk, Maui mulls property taxes, more top Hawaii news for smartphone and web

2012-01-11T06:21:00.002-10:00


Hawaii state Capitol (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

A U-S House Armed Services panel was at the state capitol today to hear from defense-related businesses. Hawaii Public Radio.

U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack toured Pearl Harbor on a visit Tuesday meant to highlight the Obama administration's commitment to renewable energy. Associated Press.

A Hawaii state judiciary committee is recommending that the Hawaii Legislature make permanent the state's shield law that protects journalists from forced disclosure of sources and notes. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Legislature convenes next week and the state Ethics Commission is already warning legislators about ethical restrictions on gifts from lobbyists. Hawaii Reporter.

The executive director of the State Ethics Commission issued two memos Monday to state legislators informing them that he was advising against accepting invitations to events hosted by lobbyists. Civil Beat.

The pending sale of Tesoro Corp.'s Hawaii operations adds uncertainty to the island's energy market and raises the possibility of increased prices for gasoline, electricity and jet fuel. Star-Advertiser.

Renewable Energy Push Could Hurt Refineries. Civil Beat.

Chevron Corp. wouldn’t say if it plans to put in a bid to buy Tesoro Corp., after the Texas-based refiner announced on Tuesday that it plans to sell its Hawaii operations. Pacific Business News.

Joe Nathan, who helped write the nation's first charter school law, urged Hawaii educators Tuesday to celebrate the expansion and successes of the charter movement even as they grapple with growing pains. Star-Advertiser.

To address a “crisis” in backlogged elevator safety inspections, the state plans to increase inspection fees to hire new, better-paid inspectors from the private sector, state Labor and Industrial Relations Department Director Dwight Takamine said today. Hawaii Reporter.

The owner of a South Korean oil tanker was sentenced in federal court in Honolulu Tuesday to pay more than $1 million for knowingly dumping oily waste in U.S. waters off Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

This year, lawmakers want to strengthen these provisions to help the victims of labor and sex trafficking. Hawaii Public Radio.

State roundup for January 11. Associated Press.

Oahu

City officials said they will monitor the situation today on South King Street in the McCully-Moiliili area, following Tuesday's daylong effort to clear sidewalks of homeless encampments. Star-Advertiser.

Every day after work, Ernest Basamonte tries to walk fast past the homeless encampment on his way to catch the bus. KITV4.

Trash Cans Overflowing at Diamond Head Lookout. Hawaii News Now.

West Oahu City Councilman Tom Berg believes the island’s nightmarish traffic congestion could be drastically improved if a computer system allowed police to more easily identify drivers who actually belong on the road. KHON2.

Hawaii

Three West Hawaii legislators on Tuesday spelled out their priorities for the upcoming session -- ranging from geothermal energy to school improvements. West Hawaii Today.
A former Leeward Planning commissioner announced his candidacy for state House Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

West Hawaii's four County Council districts are shaping up to have competitive races, with candidates beginning to come forward weeks before the Feb. 1 start of pulling papers for nominations. West Hawaii Today.

Astronomers announced a small discovery that may have big implications for the number of planets orbiting other stars. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County Council members continued wrestling Monday with illegal vacation rentals, a problem made more difficult by limited county resources available for enforcement. Maui News.

Public testimony will be taken on a bill that would change the way homes are taxed on agricultural property during meetings throughout Maui County this month. Maui News.

Residents and visitors will have an opportunity to visit Haleakala National Park for free. Maui Now.

Kauai

The Kaua‘i County Council announced Tuesday that Interim County Clerk and former council services administrator Ricky Watanabe was selected for the position of county clerk. Garden Island.

The Kauai County Council selected Rick Watanabe as the new county clerk, the county announced today. Star-Advertiser.

The Kaua‘i Planning Commission Tuesday unanimously confirmed Jan Kimura, one of the commission’s more vocal members, as the commission’s chair for 2012. Garden Island.

Kaua'i RSVP, an organization that's part of the Agency on Elderly Affairs, announced today the kick-off of its cell phone and eyewear recycling campaign. Hawaii News Now.

Molokai

Maui County officials said Cooke Memorial Pool on Molokai be closed on Friday, January 13 and Saturday, January 14 for black algae maintenance. KITV4.

Tax hikes mulled, statewide bag ban sought, Hawaii flunks Race to the Top, teacher union vote set, Lingle, Hannemann net union endorsements, yacht resumes Molokai trips, home sales mixed, $38M rail contract awarded, 75 Kauai County jobs unfilled, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

2012-01-10T06:55:00.000-10:00


Former Gov. Linda Lingle (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

The State of Hawaii Organization of Police Officers on Monday endorsed former Gov. Linda Lingle for U.S. Senate, which gives the Republican a window into the blue-collar labor community that usually prefers Democrats. Star-Advertiser.

On Monday, the United Public Workers, Local 646 announced its endorsement of former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann to serve Hawaii's 2nd Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. Hawaii News Now.

The state plans to tighten spending rather than increase taxes to cover a predicted $19.3 million state budget deficit in fiscal year 2013, Hawaii officials said Monday. Associated Press.

Tax increases and other revenue-generating measures are being considered by the Abercrombie administration to deal with budget shortfalls expected to top $164 million in fiscal year 2014 and grow in successive years. Star-Advertiser.

The state's recently downgraded revenues forecast won't scrap Gov. Neil Abercrombie's financial plan for this year or next. Civil Beat.

The effects of newly downgraded tax revenue projections will be “minimal” for the current state budget but will be “quite considerable and severe” in future years, causing Gov. Neil Abercrombie’s administration to at least consider the possibility of future tax increases, Budget Director Kalbert Young said today. Hawaii Reporter.

State Budget and Finance Director Kalbert Young told lawmakers Monday the Abercrombie administration is drawing up a revised six year financial plan in order to deal with long-term deficits that rise above $300 million within the next four fiscal years. KHON2.

Hawaii missed major milestones during its first year of implementing reforms under a $75 million "Race to the Top" education grant, the U.S. Department of Education said. Associated Press.

In its first year of a four-year, $75 million Race to the Top grant, Hawaii missed "the majority" of its education reform milestones, a new U.S. Department of Education report says. Star-Advertiser.

Several states that won a slice of the U.S. Department of Education's $4.3 billion Race to the Top competition have had to delay plans to implement ambitious reforms and two could possibly lose money if they don't get back on track. Associated Press.

The Hawaii State Teachers Association hopes to hold a ratification vote on a new six-year contract on Jan. 19. Star-Advertiser.

The tentative agreement reached by the state and the Hawaii State Teachers Association could help to save federal education funds. Hawaii News Now.

The Governor says a tentative labor deal with the teachers union should help the state secure $75 million dollars in federal "Race to the Top" money. KHON2.

With the legislative session gearing up, advocates are pushing for a statewide law to bring O`ahu into the mix and deal with some unforeseen problems the plastic bag bans created. Hawaii Public Radio.

State roundup for January 10. Associated Press.

Oahu

The city has awarded a $38.8 million contract to Los Angeles-based AECOM Technical Services Inc. to design the rail transit project's airport segment. Star-Advertiser.

Judge: Civil Beat Can Blog Honolulu Rail Lawsuit. Civil Beat.

Honolulu officials have taken the first major step toward using the new belongings ban to remove homeless people from public sidewalks. Civil Beat.

Sun, surf and 24,000 cubic yards of sand; the state’s plan to replenish the shoreline along Waikiki requires large equipment to pump that sand from more than 1,500 feet offshore. KITV4.

State Sen. Donna Kim, a frequent critic of programs and activities at state airports, got an unpleasant surprise when she took the new shuttle service from Honolulu International Airport to her home in the Kalihi neighborhood of Honolulu. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii's slow and uneven economic recovery appeared to rub off on Oahu's housing market last year, as median prices dipped a little on relatively flat buyer demand. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The Big Island saw about a 15 percent decline in single-family home sales in December, but hardly any change in condominium sales, according to Hawaii Information Service. Pacific Business News.

A Hawaii USDA office will be closed as part of an effort to cut costs. KHON2.

Reimbursement for services -- particularly from Medicare and Medicaid -- will continue to be a top issue for Kona Community Hospital and West Hawaii physicians, a Big Island senator said Monday. West Hawaii Today.

Ten Hawaii Island couples had applications for civil unions certified last week, according to the state Department of Health. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui home sales were mixed in December, while prices for both single-family homes and condominiums were down by double-digit amounts, according to the Realtors Association of Maui. Pacific Business News.

Makawao Veterans Cemetery may reach capacity for burials in one and a half to two years, so plans are being laid for the purchase of a 10-acre adjoining property. Maui News.

The Wailuku copy and business center, Maui Business Etc, will be the site of a lunchtime “Coffee Talk with Mazie” on Wednesday, January 11. Maui Now.

Kauai

Single-family home sales on Kauai dropped more than 50 percent in December compared to the same month in 2010, according to Hawaii Information Service. Pacific Business News.

The Kaua‘i County Council in May approved — and funded — dozens of county job positions which have yet to be filled, Council Chair Jay Furfaro said Monday. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i Community College opened its classrooms Monday for the start of the spring semester. Garden Island.

Molokai

American Safari Cruises (ASC) is resuming scheduled two-day stops to Molokai later this month after company officials, local protesters and state and federal authorities reached an agreement. Molokai Dispatch.

Hawaii senators propose $500M stimulus plan, Native Hawaiians taking federal recogition into their own hands, teachers, governor strike deal, REAL ID coming to Hawaii, Maui seeks new buoys, Kauai mourns broadcaster Dahle, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

2012-01-09T06:28:00.003-10:00


Hawaiian protest (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Frustrated with a 10-year congressional fight to obtain federal recognition and form a nation-within-a-nation government, the Office of Hawaiian Affairs has decided to follow a path that has led several American Indian tribes to success. Civil Beat.

State senators, looking to stimulate job creation and help lift the construction industry out of the doldrums, want to aggressively pursue as much as $500 million in bond-financed construction projects at public schools, hospitals and state buildings. Star-Advertiser.

Now that the Hawaii Supreme Court has sent the state Reapportionment Commission back to the drawing board, former state Sen. Lorraine Inouye is positioning herself to run for what is likely to become the island's fourth Senate seat. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii's congressional candidates want your money, but most of them won't tell you exactly when and where they're asking for it. Civil Beat.

In less than two months, all Hawaii residents who are applying for or renewing a driver's license must bring documents that establish their legal presence in the state. Tribune-Herald.

The 2010 census showed Filipinos have overtaken Japanese as the second largest ethnic group in Hawai’i, behind Caucasians. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii's tourism officials are supporting federal legislation that could increase the number of Chinese and Canadian visitors to the U.S. Hawaii News Now.

The State of Hawaii and the Hawaii State Teachers Association have reached a tentative agreement Friday, ending a dispute that threatened federal funding for Hawaii's schools and spurred legal action from the teacher's union. KITV4.

Lynn Heirakuji has stepped in as the vice-chair of the Hawaii Interagency Council on Homelessness, filling a seat vacated on Friday by Marc Alexander the former state coordinator on the homeless. Pacific Business News.

Hawaiian monk seal deaths are coming as the federal government steps up its efforts to protect the seals, leading to simmering resentment among some fishermen who fear new regulations will trample upon their right to fish. Associated Press.

Some positive economic numbers from the state's largest bank show an overall increase in business spending from last year. KITV4.

State roundup for January 9. Associated Press.

Oahu

In a curious postscript to a high-profile city contracting dispute, state records show that two of the three companies vying for a contract to produce rail cars for the Honolulu rail project responded to a request for proposals before the companies were licensed as Hawaii contractors. Star-Advertiser.

A handful of teachers in Hawaii are using a new service that allows them to blast a text message to parents, who can then text back. Star-Advertiser.

Occupy Honolulu Asked Mayor for Immunity From Sidewalk Belongings Ban. Civil Beat.

A University of Hawaii research vessel that called for Coast Guard assistance when it began taking on water some 60 miles off Oahu returned safely to port Saturday. Hawaii News Now.

More than 6,000 farmers and ranchers from across the nation are in Honolulu for the annual American Farm Bureau Federation meeting at the Hawaii Convention Center. KHON2.

Hawaii

Some Kohala residents attempted to light a fire under the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to request funding and implement an action plan that solves the silt and sedimentation problems inside Pelekane Bay. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Electric Light Co. said Friday that it hopes to add up to 50 megawatts of geothermal energy on the Big Island. Pacific Business News.

Improper chemical storage has caused safety and health threats at Big Island schools, say local hazardous waste experts seeking to increase awareness of the dangers. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Ocean safety advocates are renewing calls for the state to replace missing swim-zone buoys off Kaanapali, saying the recent death of a man at Canoe Beach shows the increasing danger of collisions between boats and swimmers. Maui News.

A Hana-based spiritual center could expand to receive overnight guests, under a proposal that received the support of the Maui County Council's Land Use Committee on Wednesday. Maui News.

Supporters were ecstatic last Thursday when the Maui County Council members voted unanimously to ban alcohol at Kalama Park and Cove Park in Kihei. Maui Now.

Kauai

Veteran Kaua‘i broadcast journalist William Gordon “Bill” Dahle, who was called “the Walter Cronkite of radio news” on the island, died at his home in Kalaheo Saturday. Garden Island.

New quarter to feature volcano, Hawaii's homeless chief resigns amid allegations, revenue forecast lowered, Honolulu Council seeks water authority, criminal trial set in 2006 Ka Loko dam disaster, strategic military importance could help state dodge Pentagon budget ax, stricter Kona coffee labeling proposed, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

2012-01-06T06:49:00.000-10:00


Kilauea Volcano caldera (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park's East Rift Zone will grace the face of an America the Beautiful Quarter to be released this summer. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii's homeless coordinator, Marc Alexander, has resigned effective today, less than a year on the job and just days after the state acknowledged receiving an allegation that he had a sexual relationship with a woman while he was a priest. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's homeless coordinator resigned "to attend to personal matters" two days after he was asked to respond to allegations of sexual misconduct as a priest, according to an anti-religion activist. Civil Beat.

Alexander made news in January, 2010 when he abruptly left the Catholic Church where he served as Vicar General of the Catholic Diocese of Honolulu to lead the effort to solve Hawaii's homeless crisis. Hawaii News Now.

The state Council on Revenues on Thursday scaled back its forecast for state revenue growth this fiscal year, which will reduce an anticipated surplus and require Gov. Neil Abercrombie to adjust his budget and financial plan. Star-Advertiser.

Council On Revenues Downgrades Hawaii Forecast By 3 Percent. Civil Beat.

The State Council on Revenues lowered its General Fund projection yesterday … 4 full percentage points less than what was forecast in September. Hawaii Public Radio.

A bill aimed at curtailing the use of the Kona coffee name by coffee blenders will soon be introduced in the state Legislature. West Hawaii Today.

Gas prices are rising again after 11 consecutive weeks of declines, according to the AAA Hawaii Weekend Gas Watch. Star-Advertiser.

U.S. Military in Hawaii: 'Bright Future Ahead' Civil Beat.

The confluence of China's military rise, a shift in global trade to the region, a budget crunch and the end of the Iraq war underscore the importance of a U.S. military presence in Asia and the Pacific -- but have not made the future any clearer for Hawaii-based military commands and the state's sizable defense industry. Star-Advertiser.

The big question on many people’s minds during The Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii ’s 11th Annual Military Partnership Conference Thursday was how the United States’ focus on the Pacific would impact the Aloha State given the uncertainties with new leadership in North Korea, China’s increasing military and economic might, and impending defense cuts. Pacific Business News.

The state Office of Information Practices will review the University of Hawaii’s refusal to release a full copy of head football coach Norm Chow’s employment contract. Hawaii Reporter.

State roundup for January 6. Associated Press.

The public memorial service for UH Manoa law professor Jon Van Dyke will be a week from Saturday on January 14th. KHON2.

Oahu

The Honolulu City Council will soon start its push to end the Board of Water Supply's "semi-autonomous" reign over one of the island's most precious natural resources. Civil Beat.

The Federal Transit Administration is raising new questions about the financial plan for the $5.27 billion Honolulu rail project, and city officials are trying to find out exactly what new requirements the agency might impose before Honolulu can lock up federal funding for the project. Star-Advertiser.

Humpback whales spotted in Honolulu Harbor. Hawaii News Now.

State Ag Department Supports Hoopili. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Medical Center closed patient care Thursday, according to HMC Chief Executive Officer Maria Kostylo. KITV4.

The Hawaiian Electric Company said it restored power shortly after 10 a.m. Thursday to about 45,000 customers in Waipahu, portions of urban Honolulu, Leeward and Windward Oahu, Aina Haina and Hawaii Kai after its largest generating unit on the system lost power. KITV4.

Dr. Greta Aeby and researchers at the Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology have discovered a coral disease called Montipora White Syndrome in waters of Kaneohe Bay. KHON2.

Hawaii

The Hawaii Department of Agriculture wants a permanent quarantine to prevent the spread of coffee berry borer, evident by its proposal available until today for comment. West Hawaii Today.

A Hilo power plant and the Army's Pohakuloa Training Area made the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's newly released list of the state's top 10 industrial polluters for 2010. Tribune-Herald.

The state should make better use of the millions of dollars it receives in royalties from geothermal energy production on Hawaii island, according to a panel formed to study the alternative energy source. Star-Advertiser.

The Police Department's plan to operate 40 surveillance cameras stalled in the past year because of regulatory and procedural issues. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County Council members on Wednesday expressed their support for the nomination of a pro-growth appointee to the Molokai Planning Commission. Maui News.

A proposal being discussed by the Maui County Council on Friday would give council committee chairs more flexibility to set the time limit for oral testimony at meetings. Maui News.

Six Maui schools were included on a list of 15 schools in the state that will share in nearly $15,000 in grants from Monsanto Hawaii. Maui Now.

Kauai

Attorneys in the James Henry Pflueger case have tentatively agreed to an October trial date regarding the criminal portion of the Ka Loko dam disaster of 2006. Garden Island.

As state Coordinator on Homelessness Marc Alexander resigned Thursday, Gov. Neil Abercrombie announced 44 people on Kaua‘i were placed into permanent housing during the 90-Day Plan on Homelessness earlier this year. Garden Island.

Hawaii reapportionment unconstitutional, state awaits revenue forecast, people killing monk seals, teachers union dispute jeopardizing $75M grant, lawmaker wants funding to fight brown tree snake, Maui squatters in court, Big Island studies geothermal energy, vog socks in Oahu, more news from all the Hawaii Islands

2012-01-05T06:16:00.000-10:00


Hawaii Supreme Court (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

The Hawaii Supreme Court struck down the state Reapportionment Commission's plan Wednesday and ordered the panel to come up with new boundaries for state Senate and House districts based on Hawaii's permanent resident population. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Supreme Court needed only hours to decide that the state's reapportionment plan is unconstitutional and must be re-done. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Supreme Court has struck down as unconstitutional the state's final reapportionment plan, a decision that will likely grant the Big Island a fourth Senate seat and possibly an eighth House seat. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii Supreme Court ruled Wednesday the state reapportionment plan is unconstitutional. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii Supreme Court ruled Wednesday that the new election maps for the state of Hawaii are unconstitutional. KITV4.

The Hawaii Supreme Court has ruled the recently redrawn voting district maps unconstitutional, saying the committee that made them must start over. KHON2.

The Abercrombie administration and state House and Senate leaders are awaiting today's forecast from the state Council on Revenues to see if projected revenue growth holds. Star-Advertiser.

State departments want to expand the budget by some $334.7 million, Budget and Finance Director Kalbert Young said in the first of a series of money briefings to lawmakers planned for this week and next. Hawaii Reporter.

The state capitol is starting to buzz again after a long recess, with staffers and legislators preparing for opening day in just two weeks. Hawaii Independent.

Former U.S. Rep. Ed Case has asked the Democratic Party of Hawaii to host a series of forums across the state where voters can compare him and U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono side by side before the Democratic primary for U.S. Senate in August. Star-Advertiser.

Civil Beat Poll: Hawaii Voters Support Limiting Political Donations. Civil Beat.

Two weeks after the state was warned to make progress on Race to the Top education reforms or risk losing a $75 million federal grant, there are no formal talks under way aimed at ending an ongoing labor dispute with the teachers union. Star-Advertiser.

A former teachers union executive predicted last summer that Hawaii's Race to the Top would be the biggest loser when contract negotiations went awry. Civil Beat.

Senate Education Chair Blasts School Bus Report. Civil Beat.

State Rep. Barbara Marumoto plans to introduce legislation this year that would enable officials to resume cargo inspections to prevent brown tree snakes from sneaking into Hawaii on planes and ships from Guam. Associated Press.

Hawaii is at-risk from the damaging brown tree snake from Guam. KITV4.

Verizon Wireless has upgraded its 3G wireless coverage in Hawaii with the addition of a new cell site on the Big Island, two new cell sites each on Kauai and Maui and three in urban Honolulu and Waikiki. Pacific Business News.

State roundup for January 5. Associated Press.

Oahu

Volcanic haze smothers Oahu. Hawaii News Now.

Vog adds to Oahu's emergency room woes. KHON2.

Tufts of salad greens will soon be sprouting from a Kakaako rooftop garden as part of a project that supporters hope will help launch a wave of urban farming in Honolulu. Star-Advertiser.

Long-time investigative reporter Keoki Kerr will be joining Hawaii News Now on Jan. 16. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

The Big Island coffee industry has been operating without an official quarantine in place for more than a month now. Tribune-Herald.

Geothermal energy studied. Tribune-Herald.

Swimmers, snorkelers and surfers will soon have easier access to Laaloa Beach Park, also known as Magic Sands, thanks to action Wednesday by the Hawaii County Council. West Hawaii Today.

Big Island unemployment has steadily increased in the last two years … inching up to the 11 percent mark in East Hawai’i. The State Department of Human Services staff there was cut two years ago. Hawaii Public Radio.

During his "Greatest Infection of the Sea" presentation Wednesday at the West Hawaii Civic Center, Capt. Charles Moore explained what and where the Great Pacific Garbage Patch -- "actually a plastic soup" -- is. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Last month a bid to sunset the "Show Me the Water" ordinance failed, and Tuesday an attempt to amend it stalled following a visit by Mayor Alan Arakawa to the County Council Water Resources Committee. Maui News.

Iao Squatters Make First Court Appearance. Maui Now.

Maui Electric Co. customers could begin getting immediate savings with no upfront costs on power bills under a "Simply Solar" program being proposed by power utilities to the Public Utilities Commission. Maui News.

Kauai

Rep. Mazie Hirono, D-Hawai‘i, on Wednesday blamed her Republican peers in Congress for creating election-season gridlock at the expense of Americans who need jobs. Garden Island.

Federal and state officials are appealing to the public for help in identifying the people who killed four critically endangered Hawaiian monk seals since November, including the death of a juvenile male on Kauai that was found Monday with an object imbedded in its skull. Star-Advertiser.

A Hawaiian monk seal was found dead under suspicious circumstances on Kaua‘i Monday, following the death of three other seals on Molokai in recent weeks, according to a press release Wednesday from the state Department of Land and Natural Resources. Garden Island.

Cutting free school bus rides could save Hawaii millions, Waikiki Beach to get more sand, HECO wants to install free solar panels, computer glitch stalls civil union applications, UH mum on new coach pay, Maui to test new battery on power grid, Big Island officials spar over waste project, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

2012-01-04T06:28:00.003-10:00


Mufi Hannemann (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann stands out as the most socially conservative Democrat in the race for Hawaii's 2nd Congressional District, according to questionnaires that he and four other candidates filled out for Civil Beat. Civil Beat.

Civil Beat Poll: Half of Hawaii Voters Say Delegation Works For Donors. Civil Beat.

Former State House Representative Tom Okamura returns to the state legislature, filling the post left vacant by Blake Oshiro. Maui Now.

A new state report aimed at considering ways to reduce student transportation costs estimates eliminating free school bus service for about 20,000 low-income students would save up to $18 million a year, while cutting service to most Oahu general-education students would save about $15 million. Star-Advertiser.

Eliminating school bus service on Oahu is the quickest and most effective way to reduce Hawaii's student transportation costs, school district officials say. Civil Beat.

Computer problems caused a backup at the marriage licensing office at the Health Department Tuesday, on what was the first day couples could receive their official civil union license. KITV4.

Citing privacy interests, the University of Hawaii won’t disclose the salary of new head football coach Norm Chow, other than to say that it’s somewhere between $392,142 and $935,544 per year. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii recognized 13 same-sex couples as having legal civil unions as of Tuesday, and an additional 69 couples have applied for civil union licenses to have similar ceremonies performed within 30 days, the state Health Department said. Star-Advertiser.

A task force representing mortgage lenders and borrowers is recommending changes to a state law enacted last year that effectively cut the number of foreclosures in half. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric Co. has asked the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission to approve a three-year program that would allow electric utilities to fund the installation of solar water heating systems for their residential customers, and recoup the costs from savings generating by the systems. Pacific Business News.

Land Deal Could Be 'Economic Engine' For Native Hawaiians. Civil Beat.

The extended comment period for changes proposed by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration on critical habitat for the Hawaiian monk seal expires Friday. Garden Island.

The Occupy Wall Street Movement Across the Hawaiian Islands. Hawaii Public Radio.

State roundup for January 4. Associated Press.

Oahu

The long-awaited project to resupply Waikiki Beach with sand will take place over the next three months, but state officials say the disruption to beachgoers should be minimal. Star-Advertiser.

Surf's Up! City Workers Prepare For Big Waves. KITV4.

Tom Berg, the often outspoken and at times controversial West Oahu councilman, announced his plans for reelection Tuesday. KHON2.

Leeward Oahu councilman Tom Berg has hired a woman who just quit another city job because of an ethics investigation against her. KITV4.

Pacific Resources Partnership and the organization Faith Action for Community Equity yesterday asked to join in the court case over Honolulu's rail transit project, filing a motion in federal court in an effort to support the rail project. Star-Advertiser.

Airport runway repairs to create noise for nearby residents. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

Council Chairman Dominic Yagong has turned up the heat on Mayor Billy Kenoi's plans to operate a Hilo garbage sort station, accusing Kenoi of kowtowing to public-sector unions rather than looking out for the taxpayers' best interest. West Hawaii Today.

No federal money will be available for the Thirty Meter Telescope or its main competitor in this decade, the head of the astronomy division at the National Science Foundation told an influential science blog. Tribune-Herald.

The Big Island -- as well as the rest of the nation and much of the world -- will continue to struggle economically in 2012, economists say. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Massachusetts-based A123 Systems for the second time in a month announced plans to provide its advanced nanophosphate lithium ion batteries to help stabilize Maui's power grid as fluctuating clean energy sources - and expensive renewable energy experiments and projects - become more common. Maui News.

A gay Oklahoma City couple is happy to be on Maui and among the first couples to be joined in a civil union after a state law allowing such unions went into effect Sunday. Maui News.

Kauai

The Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Forestry and Wildlife is planning to restore 105 acres of wetlands on Mana Plain Forest Reserve. Garden Island.

Hawaii gears up for election year, GOP changes caucus strategy, Honolulu doesn't want lowest bidder, Hispanics account for almost 10% of population, Maui to protect Kaehu Bay, more Hawaii news for smartphone and web

2012-01-03T06:30:00.005-10:00


Gov. Neil Abercrombie (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

The 2012 Hawaii election will be the first since 1974 in which Neil Abercrombie will not be a candidate for office. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Republican Party changes caucuses in hopes of gaining more members. KHON2.

President Barack Obama ended his 10-day winter vacation with his family Monday, departing Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam aboard Air Force One. Star-Advertiser.

President Barack Obama and his family and friends left Oahu on January 2, 2012, after a 17-day, notably low key vacation. Hawaii Reporter.

With an eye on the 2012 campaign, President Barack Obama wrapped up a low-key Hawaiian vacation Monday and planned to quickly get back in front of voters as he ratchets up his bid for re-election. Associated Press.

Hawaii voters say the wealthy are calling the shots in Congress. Civil Beat.

Nearly 1 in 10 Hawaii residents identifies as Hispanic, an increase of 38 percent over the last decade, and some observers expect the group to attract more attention this year as political campaigns heat up. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie says Hawaii is seeing a record number of visitors from China and Korea thanks to efforts by his administration over the past year. Civil Beat.

As part of a push to drive down the cost of home insurance and ensure consumers aren't paying for coverage they don't need, the state has released home insurance quotes for 14 providers who volunteered the information. Star-Advertiser.

The state Insurance Division released today resources intended for comparison shopping for the best property insurance rates statewide. West Hawaii Today.

The National Weather Service has issued a high surf warning as giant surf is expected to hit the north and west shores of most islands late Tuesday through Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

State roundup for January 3. Associated Press.

A historic Hawaiian practice has been resurrected just in time for the 176th anniversary of Queen's Emma's birth at her Summer Palace Monday morning. KHON2.

Oahu

The amount of empty office space on Oahu hit a nine-year high of 13 percent in 2011, and likely will rise again this year, according to a new report. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu city officials are looking to change the way they award construction contracts, so instead of being automatically awarded to the lowest bidder, construction projects would be given to companies with records of on-time performance and good workmanship. KITV4.

Ben Cayetano said he wasn't doing anything except watch football today, but if he does decide to run for mayor his schedule will get a whole lot busier. Hawaii News Now.

At the Hearts for Animals Wellness Center in Laie, there is no shortage of chores for JoAnn Chisholm-Dueno but after five years, she is still driven to care for the animals. KITV4.

Hawaii
January on the Big Island is Volcano Awareness Month. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

After years of work, Kaehu Bay supporters think they may be just a few months from changes that will protect the large bay and its wetlands from development and make it a nature preserve forever. Maui News.

Kauai

A new Web-based directory of “green employers” released by the state Department of Labor and Industrial Relations includes 28 Kaua‘i businesses and nonprofit organizations. Garden Island.

Obama ending vacation, same-sex couples wed, Department of Education holds back $34M, Cayetano ponders Honolulu mayoral race, Tripler to fill Oahu trauma center gap, Maui tourist spending up, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

2012-01-02T06:31:00.000-10:00

The 2012 New Year will ring in several new State measures, including Hawaii’s civil unions law. Other measures include a law that provides workplace protections for domestic or sexual violence victims, a law that allows for anonymous filings in a court of law, as well as several new insurance provisions. Hawaii Independent.

President Barack Obama and his wife and friends dined at Nobu's Waikiki tonight on the eve of the first family's departure. Star-Advertiser.

Same-sex couples make it official as civil unions become legal in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Four Hawaii same-sex couples celebrated civil unions just after midnight Sunday at a party in east Honolulu. Civil Beat.

Final decorations are going up at a Hawaii Kai home to celebrate as four local couple’s say "I do" in the state's first civil union's ceremony. KITV4.

Public schools and state Department of Education offices tucked away $34.2 million last fiscal year to carry over into this one, as they tried to build up rainy-day funds or save for textbooks, electronics and other purchases, a new report to the state Legislature shows. Star-Advertiser.

A special commission that the Legislature created to oversee the distribution of federal stimulus funds has found a mixed bag of results. Tribune-Herald.

Though Native Hawaiian eighth-graders have shown improvements in reading and math proficiency, they continue to lag behind their non-Native Hawaiian peers, a new study finds. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie on Friday released more than $63.7 million for capital improvement projects, including $16 million to build student housing at the University of Hawaii at Hilo. Pacific Business News.

Nearly three years after the Hawaii Superferry suspended its operations, state Rep. Joe Souki hopes to restart discussion about an interisland ferry system with legislation he introduced earlier this year. Maui News.

State Roundup for Jan. 2. Associated Press.

Innovators and leaders in Hawai`i’s technology sector have been working for more than a decade to bring kama’aina home. The focus is on keeping some of Hawai`i’s best and brightest closer to home. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Will former Governor Benjamin Cayetano become Mayor Cayetano in 2012? Hawaii Reporter.

Tripler Army Medical Center has agreed to become a trauma center for the treatment of nonmilitary residents on Oahu, providing relief to the Queen's Medical Center, which is the only civilian trauma center on Hawaii's most populated island. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu's special events coordinator has resigned, after an investigation revealed numerous violations of city ethics policies. KITV4.

Honolulu fire officials say there were no severe fires started by fireworks New Year's Eve and dispatch calls were down slightly from last year, but they still saw a significant number of illegal aerials. Hawaii News Now.

What's open and closed for the New Year holiday. KHON2.

Hawaii

Occupy Hawaii Island Protesters Gather Near Pelosi's Vacation Resort. Hawaii Reporter.

New Year's came and went without a single fireworks-related incident reported in West Hawaii to the Fire Department, as of 11 a.m. Sunday, said West Hawaii Battalion Chief Reuben Chun. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Gov. Neil Abercrombie released more than $63.7 million for capital improvements projects, including $7.5 million for Maui projects. Maui News.

Maui Visitor Spending, Arrivals Continue Growing. Maui Now.

Kauai

As the new year was about to begin, council members and Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. reflected on achievements and challenges of the old year and looked ahead to 2012. Garden Island.

Judge could rule today on civil union challenge, Occupy Honolulu protesters arrested, Hawaii mortgages top $3,000, Obama visits Pearl Harbor, lava-peepers visit Kilauea, Maui high school, food center advance, Kauai timeshare buyers gripe about fees, more Hawaii news for smartphone and web

2011-12-30T06:40:00.001-10:00


Lava flows courtesy Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

A pause in the supply of magma since Tuesday to Kilauea's East Rift Zone vent has slowed the output of lava, but that hasn't stopped hundreds of people from visiting the end of the road in a remote corner of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Tribune-Herald.

Lava slideshow

The 2012 New Year will ring in several new State measures, including Hawaii’s civil unions law. Other measures include a law that provides workplace protections for domestic or sexual violence victims, a law that allows for anonymous filings in a court of law, as well as several new insurance provisions. Hawaii Independent.

A federal judge could rule as early as today on a request by two Oahu Christian churches to block the new state law that allows same-sex couples to enter into civil unions. Star-Advertiser.

Two Christian churches on Oahu and their pastors are seeking a court order to halt Hawaii's civil union law, which goes into effect Jan. 1 — in less than three days. Civil Beat.

Two Christian churches have filed a federal complaint to stop Hawaii's new civil union law in its tracks, claiming the legislation is unconstitutional.Hawaii Reporter.

President Barack Obama has now done what every president since Franklin D. Roosevelt has done -- visited the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii. CNN.

President Barack Obama laid a wreath at a memorial honoring those killed in the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941. Associated Press.

It's been an event filled day for the President and First Family. KHON2.

Hawaii had the biggest average home mortgage amount in the nation in 2011, and an average monthly payment that is more than three times higher than the national average, according to statistics from LendingTree.com. Pacific Business News.

Predicting ahi prices for New Year's sashimi and poke is like gambling. Star-Advertiser.

The state Reapportionment Commission Chair, Retired Judge Victoria Marks, and her project manager, delivered the commission's final report and 2011 reapportionment plan prepared by the 2011 Reapportionment Commission to Hawaii lawmakers today. Hawaii Reporter.

State Roundup for Dec. 30. Associated Press.

Oahu
Acting on newly confirmed boundaries, Honolulu police swept in late Thursday night and evicted Occupy Honolulu campers at Thomas Square Park, arresting two protesters. Star-Advertiser.

New overnight, "Occupy" protestors were forced out of Thomas Square after a two month stand. Hawaii News Now.

Feds OK Final Rail Design Work, But Demand Stronger Financial Plan. Civil Beat.

The City and County of Honolulu has moved one step closer to receiving federal funding for its $5.3 billion rail project. KHON2.

Change orders and problems have plagued two city construction projects in Ewa, a new gym and a new fire station, adding to their costs and causing months of delays. KITV4.

Hawaii

Hawaii County Council members are lining up their priorities for the new year. West Hawaii Today.

As Hilo Councilman J Yoshimoto makes plans to run for the District 2 council seat, now that he's been moved there from his current District 3, he's going to face competition. West Hawaii Today.

Maui
State funding of nearly $1.3 million has been released for design, planning and a portion of construction for a project to convert the University of Hawaii Maui College's former cafeteria into the new UH Food Innovation Center. Maui News.

Plans for a new Kihei high school call for building a campus in two phases, with the first targeted for opening in 2016 for 800 students and 120 staff members, according to a draft environmental impact statement posted last week. Maui News.

Kauai

Time share owners at The Point at Po‘ipu are yelling foul in what might just might be a case of buyer beware. Garden Island.

County officials this week reminded Kaua‘i residents that more tax relief is now available for eligible homeowners. Garden Island.

Obama golfs, dines, endures criticism, substitute teachers need college degrees, Hawaiian Monk seals die as residents fight NOAA limits, DLNR to merge divisions, long-term care crisis looms, Hilo marijuana minister still behind bars, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

2011-12-29T07:00:00.001-10:00


President Obama and entourage in Hawaii

As Republicans who want to be president slog through chilly Iowa in the run-up to next week’s caucuses, the man who is president moves from one enviable sun-splashed outing to the next. Tribune.

President Barack Obama spent Day 6 of his Windward Oahu holiday at a different golf course, but with familiar playing partners. Star-Advertiser.

President Barack Obama and wife Michelle headed to one of their favorite Oahu restaurants for a date Wednesday night. Hawaii News Now.

The cost of the First Family's holiday vacation in Hawaii continues to cause controversy. Hawaii News Now.

Starting early next year, substitute teachers who do not have college degrees will no longer be allowed to work in Hawaii's public schools, a move that education officials said is aimed at complying with federal requirements. KITV4.

Waikiki residents Gary Bradley and Paul Perry are among the scores of same-sex couples who are preparing to say "I do" under the state’s new civil unions law. KITV4.

A third monk seal was found dead on Molokai Wednesday and officials at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration are working to determine the cause of death. Civil Beat.

A merger of the two divisions that manage state water and land resources is on the horizon, a Department of Land and Natural Resources official says. West Hawaii Today.

The graying of the so-called baby boomer generation will soon trigger a tsunami-like demand for long-term care services that the state and its residents are not prepared for. Tribune-Herald.

Hawai‘i is ranked No. 1 in the United States for investment in energy savings performance contracting (ESPC) for public buildings per capita, according to a ranking published by the Energy Services Coalition, a national nonprofit network working at the state and local level to increase energy efficiency through building upgrades. Hawaii Reporter.

Last week, the U.S. Department of Education warned that Hawaii’s $75 million in Race to the Top educational funding was in jeopardy. Hawaii Independent.

State roundup for Dec. 29. Associated Press.

Oahu

Veteran journalist and journalism educator John Heckathorn died Wednesday morning at Straub Clinic & Hospital after suffering a heart attack Christmas morning at his home in Kalama Valley. He was 65. Star-Advertiser.

Former Honolulu Magazine editor, John Heckathorn, died on Wednesday morning after suffering a heart attack on Christmas. Hawaii News Now.

Respected journalist and teacher John Heckathorn died this morning after suffering a heart attack on Christmas Day. KHON2.

Hawaii Medical Center's Ewa hospital closed on Wednesday after transferring the last of its patients to its Liliha facility. Star-Advertiser.

The massive sea-based X-Band Radar left Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam on Wednesday morning, but Navy officials would not disclose where it was headed. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

Hilo marijuana minister Roger Christie has been held for 17 months without bail in the Honolulu Federal Detention Center. Civil Beat.

Pahoa's Sacred Heart Church is teaming up with an internationally trained sculptor to create a one-of-a-kind statue of St. Damien DeVeuster to commemorate his Puna missionary work. Tribune-Herald.

The Kailua-Kona Public Library will soon see its electric bill drop. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Hale Makua Health Services is finalizing an application to the state Department of Health to turn a wing of its Wailuku facility into an adult residential care home. Maui News.

Upwards of 30 protesters held signs along Dairy Road in Kahului today over a three hour period, in a demonstration against a nearby tenant for the sale of reef fish. Maui Now.

Kauai

The Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative board has yet to discuss how it will address the impending vacancy to be created in January by the departure of director Ben Sullivan. Garden Island.

A new Professional Readiness Employment Program (PREP) Academy aims to help job seekers, particularly Native Hawaiians, with creative tools to improve their ability to find and keep good jobs. Garden Island.

Gov. Abercrombie too dizzy to greet Obama, blocks of Waikiki set for demolition, Hawaii pension plan overtaxed by OT, Hawaii County councilman leaves hospital, Paul Mitchell heir donates Kona waterfront, case dismissed against Kauai council, state to fence thousands of acres on Maui, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

2011-12-28T06:31:00.001-10:00


Humpback whale NOAA courtesy photo

Humpback whale aficionados have an opportunity to help scientists keep tabs on a growing population in the nation's primary mating and calving grounds. West Hawaii Today.

President Barack Obama and his family spent a warm and sunny Tuesday afternoon at one of the most popular snorkeling spots on Oahu, where they released four green sea turtles into the water. Associated Press.

Some Americans are bothered by President Barack Obama's decision to take a million-dollar vacation to Hawaii during these tough economic times. Hawaii News Now.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie suffered from dizziness on Friday, preventing him from greeting President Barack Obama when he arrived in Honolulu. KITV4.

Abercrombie's First Year, According To Abercrombie. Civil Beat.

Some 100 Hawaii clergy and other potential officiants have learned how to obtain online licenses to perform civil unions beginning just after midnight Sunday, offering a hint of the potential scope of civil unions in the islands. Star-Advertiser.

Shortly after the stroke of midnight on New Year's Day, Gary Bradley and Paul Perry will be among the first couples in the state to enter into civil unions as soon as a Hawaii law goes into effect. Tribune-Herald.

Trustees of Hawaii's public pension system are finalizing proposed legislation aimed at preventing employees from "spiking" their pay to dramatically boost retirement benefits. Civil Beat.

Hawai`i’s Filipino Cultural Center is the largest of its kind outside of the Philippines. Filcom is organizing statewide donations through three banks in Hawai`i to help provide disaster relief to typhoon survivors. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Professional and Vocational Licensing Branch will hold extended hours on Dec. 29 and Dec. 30 to accommodate those needing to renew their licenses before the end of the year. KHON2.

State roundup for Dec. 28. Associated Press.

Oahu

The International Market Place, Waikiki Town Center and the Miramar at Waikiki Hotel will be demolished and redeveloped into a new three-level retail, dining and entertainment center beginning in 2013 — a long-awaited project expected to cost up to $300 million and revitalize an aging but iconic six-acre block in Hawaii’s main tourist hub. Pacific Business News.

A highly restrictive fireworks law has put a damper on the first New Year's Eve -- traditionally Hawaii's biggest annual fireworks celebration -- under the new city ordinance, say fireworks shoppers. Star-Advertiser.

The closure of two Oahu hospitals is having a ripple effect on the medical community. KITV4.

City Not Rushing To Implement "Sidewalk Law". KITV4.

Hawaii

A "rare treasure" of Hawaii island property containing spring-fed pools connected to Kiholo Bay in North Kona has been donated to The Nature Conservancy by the son of hairstyling company founder Paul Mitchell. Star-Advertiser.

The heir to a hairstyling and hair-care products dynasty has donated seven acres of land on the North Kona Coast to The Nature Conservancy. Tribune-Herald.

A Hawaii resident best known for manufacturing hair care products has donated seven acres of land on the North Kona Coast to the Nature Conservancy. KHON2.

Hawaii County Council meetings will not be held at the West Hawaii Civic Center until contractors make long-overdue fixes, Council Chairman Dominic Yagong said Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

North Kona Councilman Angel Pilago headed home Tuesday, after spending two days hospitalized on Oahu. West Hawaii Today.

The state is considering appealing a Big Island judge’s recent decision to allow a project in South Kohala to move forward. Civil Beat.

Maui
Maui residents are not holding back on spending money on fireworks for New Year's Eve. Maui News.

The state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands has awarded more than two dozen homesteads to Native Hawaiian families. Maui News.

A 45-day public comment period has started on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement filed for the proposed Kihei High School in South Maui. Maui Now.

The state is proposing the construction of an enclosure fence around approximately 2,350 acres of native remnant koa forest on the Leeward side of Haleakala. Maui Now.

Kauai

A civil complaint against the Kaua‘i County Council brought by two of its council members was dismissed in 5th Circuit Court on Tuesday. Garden Island.

The last of the “five side-men” is leaving the Kaua‘i Police Commission. Garden Island.