Showing posts with label Abercrombie. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Abercrombie. Show all posts

Monday, August 18, 2014

Hawaii Health Connector in jeopardy, Charles Djou opens campaign HQ, lots of opinions in election aftermath, Honolulu Mayor Caldwell builds war chest, Waikiki tourism vs. homeless, Desmond Tutu to speak, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Silversword 
The number of ‘ahinahina, or silverswords, at Haleakala Crater has declined by nearly 60 percent over the last two decades, experts said, and scientists are studying the decline. Maui News.

The future of the Hawaii Health Connector is in jeopardy with the impending departure of one of its strongest supporters in Gov. Neil Abercrombie and the decision by the state's largest medical insurer to pull back from the troubled online marketplace. Star-Advertiser.

Republican Charles Djou opened his campaign headquarters on Sunday as he prepares to face Democrat Mark Takai in November. Both candidates are vying for Colleen Hanabusa's Congressional District one seat. Hawaii News Now.

After sailing through the primary election, Republican Charles Djou opened his campaign headquarters on Sunday. He faces Democrat Mark Takai in the race for Hawaii’s First Congressional District. KHON2.

Elections results were the talk of the town Sunday, but low turnout and bad timing had some officials wondering what can be done to improve the process. KITV4.

Opinion: The irony of Neil Abercrombie's blowout loss to David Ige in the Democratic primary is that he was among the few who had successfully rebranded himself throughout his political career.Star-Advertiser.

Opinion: Primary Lessons, General Expectations. Civil Beat.

Dan Inouye and Brian Schatz: A Lesson in Hawaii Politics. Hawaii's newest senator should learn a few things from its oldest. Civil Beat.

A military cargo jet will be named after the late U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye. Associated Press.

Oahu

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s first term isn’t up until 2016, but that hasn’t stopped him from padding his campaign reserves. Caldwell reported more than $1.4 million in campaign contributions during the current election cycle, which began Nov. 7, 2012, the day after he beat former Hawaii Gov. Ben Cayetano in the general election. Civil Beat.

Waikiki visitor industry officials say they are trying to raise $500,000 annually to work with the Institute for Human Services on alleviating the area's chronic homeless problem, but in the meantime they want the City Council to pass a pair of contentious bills aimed at cleaning up the tourism district. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Area Rapid Transit director Daniel Grabauskas pledged on his watch, the city’s $5.26 billion Honolulu rail project would come in “on time and on budget.” Hawaii Reporter.

The late Nelson Mandela formed "The Elders" in hopes that internationally respected, independent leaders could help resolve conflict in the "global village," much as wise kupuna in traditional villages did. Three of these elders — Nobel Peace Prize winner Desmond Tutu and two pioneering women leaders from Pakistan and Norway — are coming to Honolulu from Aug. 29 through 31 to speak about their work and exchange thoughts with local residents. Star-Advertiser.

Marriott International remains committed to Hawaii, following the news this week, first reported by Pacific Business News, that the Maryland-based hospitality company will lose its management contract for the JW Marriott Ihilani Resort & Spa at Ko Olina Resort in West Oahu.

Hawaii

Puna: 15 Minutes of Fame on Hawaii’s ‘Last Frontier’ A delayed end to the 2014 primary election put the colorful community in the national spotlight. Now, some people hope the district can capitalize on it. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island’s real estate market took a bit of a pause this summer, real estate agents say. But overall, the West Hawaii market continues to grow, with the median residential sale price still increasing about 1 percent a month, said Michael Griggs, who keeps detailed real estate statistics for Big Island sales. “For this phase of the cycle, which is a pretty early one, we’re right on track,” Griggs said. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Hawaii Chief Justice Mark Recktenwald is seeking a Maui County resident to be appointed to a vacancy on the Hawaii State Elections Commission. Maui News.

Kauai

It was her first visit to the Lawai International Center on Sunday. And yet, Susan Marigold said there was a sense of peace unlike anywhere else she had been. Garden Island.

Tuesday, January 3, 2012

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

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.








Monday, October 3, 2011

News release: Hawaii public schools to offer surfing as an official sport

Abercrombie and friend (c) Ricky Li
HONOLULU – Hawaii public high school students will for the first time be able to compete in school sanctioned surf competitions as early as the spring of 2013, under a plan announced today by Gov. Neil Abercrombie, the Hawaii State Board and Department of Education and professional surfer Carissa Moore.

Working with the appointed Hawaii State Board of Education, the DOE is developing a plan to incorporate surfing in school athletics, with collaboration from city officials, surfing organizations and the community.

“Hawaii is the birthplace of surfing. From Duke Kahanamoku to the thousands of residents and visitors who surf both recreationally and competitively, the sport is rooted in our culture and way of life,” said Abercrombie. “Bringing surfing to our students is another step in our collective goal to transform public education and provide our children with rich and diverse educational opportunities.”

“Surfing will be an exciting addition for our students as we continue to expand and improve educational programs to increase student achievement,” Superintendent Kathryn Matayoshi said. “School sports teach critical life lessons such as team work and goal-setting while helping students stay active and healthy.”

The Hawaii State Board of Education in May 2004 approved surfing – the official individual sport of the state of Hawaii – as a high school sport. Despite overwhelming support from parents and students, funding and other challenges have kept surfing from becoming a fully-fledged school sport.

The BOE and the DOE are working on an implementation blueprint to make competitive school surfing a reality. The DOE intends to support the sport with outside funding sources and consult community partners and city officials to ensure that surf breaks are shared equitably and safely. The BOE will support implementation processes that address safety.

BOE member Keith Amemiya, a former executive director of the Hawaii High School Athletic Association, said surfing will allow students to learn about their environment and themselves. He said it also will engage the community by fostering relationships and partnerships with a new group of individuals and groups.

“Surfing is a unique sport that often attracts athletes that may not necessarily be interested in more traditional sports such as football, basketball, baseball, and soccer. Therefore, we're confident that surfing will increase athletics participation numbers,” Amemiya said. “In our view, the more students that engage in athletics and other after school activities, the higher our student achievement rates will become.”

Hawaii’s Carissa Moore, who this summer became the youngest surfer ever to win a professional surfing world title at age 18, joined Governor Abercrombie and education officials in celebrating today’s announcement.

"It will open doors for a lot of students," she said, explaining that surfing taught her important life skills such as to be perseverant, manage time, and be organized.

The BOE and DOE will continue to discuss a plan to implement surfing as a high school sport during the Board’s General Business Meeting tomorrow, Oct. 4, starting at 2:15 p.m. at the Queen Liliuokalani Building.

Friday, September 16, 2011

Hawaii unemployment rate up, second Abercrombie Cabinet member resigns, Japanese message in bottle reaches Kauai, homeless camps airlifted off Diamond Head, Kona coffee lawsuit brewing, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hapuna Beach (c) 2011 All Hawaii News
A hand grenade found Sept. 2 and a 57 mm Japanese mortar round discovered Thursday at Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area on Hawaii Island have been detonated by the Army Corps of Engineers as an ordnance cleanup continues there, officials said. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's unemployment rate rose to a seasonally adjusted 6.2 percent in August in yet another sign that raises questions about the strength of the state's economic recovery. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie's Human Resources director, Sunshine Topping, will leave her post Friday. Civil Beat.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie has appointed Barbara Krieg as interim director of the state Department of Human Resources Development after director Sunshine Topping resigned. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's latest graduation policy proposal that reverses a recommendation to reduce social studies requirements also goes against promises made in the state's Race to the Top. Civil Beat.

Russians Help Hawaii Hunt for Japanese Tsunami Debris. Hawaii Reporter.

Oahu

The Asia Pacific Clean Energy Summit and Expo ended today in Honolulu. Some policy makers and planners asked why not use more volcanic heat to generate electricity in Hawai’i. Hawaii Public Radio.

They came by land and by air and in the end, more than 50 homeless campsites were torn down and removed along Diamond Head Crater. KHON2.

The state has ordered evacuation of 28 Niu Valley houses this weekend when two boulders — one of which weighs 7 to 10 tons and is likely to come loose — will be removed from a ridge above the structures. Star-Advertiser.

The University of Hawaii is considering raising tuition and on Friday the public will have the chance to weigh in. Hawaii News Now.

Lane closures related to nighttime soil sampling work for the Honolulu Rail Transit Project will begin Monday, September 19, the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART) announced today. Hawaii Independent.

Former Kaneohe Marine Awarded Medal Of Honor. KITV4.

The U.S. Department of Education on Thursday named three Oahu schools to the 2011 National Blue Ribbon Schools list. KITV4.

It's a decades old debate of how to go about growth while maintaining the north shore's unique environment and community.KHON2.

Hawaii


A spat involving Safeway and Hawaii coffee growers is still brewing, even after the supermarket giant agreed to change labeling on its Kona blend coffee. Associated Press.

In a modern take on the great land rushes of the 19th century, Hawaii County is preparing to issue agricultural leases for Paauilo lands that have sat idle since 1994. Tribune-Herald.

Kona Blue Water Farms Inc. will soon be no more. The company that marketed its farmed amberjacks as Kona Kampachi is dissolving. West Hawaii Today.

Only two members of the public showed up Thursday evening to a hearing in Hilo by the state Department of Health's Clean Air Branch on proposed new restrictions to open burning. Tribune-Herald.

With supply lagging, a slow economy, high gas prices and used car prices rising, some local automobile dealers said sales may continue to creep ahead or fall behind last year's numbers, but no one can be certain in a volatile market. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui Land & Pineapple Co. presented formal requests to Maui County Council members Wednesday for the entitlements the company needs to build the Pulelehua housing development in Mahinahina. Maui News.

There’s been a lot of belt-tightening across the state in recent months, but nothing like what happened on Maui. Pacific Business News.

State officials are completing a report with recommendations for the East Maui Animal Refuge to obtain a wildlife rehabilitation permit in the wake of an inspection and the federal seizure of 17 birds from the Haiku facility last month. Maui News.

Kauai
County ends fiscal year with 160 jobs open. Garden Island.

A sailor participating in a beach cleanup in Hawaii found a message in bottle that had been dropped in the ocean more than five years ago by a Japanese school girl. Star-Advertiser.

An unexpected treasure was found underneath the sizzling sun on the beaches of the Pacific Missile Range Facility Thursday, discovered by Navy Petty Officer Jon Moore during Ocean Conservancy’s International Coastal Cleanup Day. Garden Island.

Monday, August 29, 2011

Hawaii governor, teachers closer to deal, OHA wants secrecy, boat rules, building codes disputed, Maui public housing pricy, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy photo
Hawaii is receiving $1.5 million in federal grants to support the protection of threatened and endangered species. Associated Press.

U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono and former congressman Ed Case are familiar figures in Hawaii politics, but in their Democratic primary for U.S. Senate they will ask voters to judge them not only by their pasts, but by their potential to lead Hawaii's congressional delegation for the next few decades. Star-Advertiser.

It's hardly viral — just a scant 47 views to its name as of early Sunday evening — but a YouTube video of Gov. Neil Abercrombie speaking with a small group of Kauai teachers on Saturday may offer a bit of hope that the governor and the Hawaii State Teachers Association could return to the negotiation table sometime soon. Star-Advertiser.

Who was in charge when collective bargaining for Hawaii teachers' contract fell apart this summer?  Civil Beat.

Office of Hawaiian Affairs Takes Second Shot at Claiming Its Employees Aren't Public Civil Beat.

Fee increases and new safety requirements for state small boat harbors users are back on the table. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii commercial fishermen forced to abide by a government catch quota say they face another potential threat to their livelihood — the relocation of monk seals from the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands to the main Hawaiian Islands. Star-Advertiser.

As children settle into their classrooms to learn fractions, decimals and long division, public school administrators also will be doing some number crunching. Maui News.

Taking tests does not have to be the bane of students’ lives – in fact, a new program on Molokai may show that regular assessment tests can help students learn more efficiently. Molokai Dispatch.

Oahu

Disney's Aulani Resort grand opening on Monday. Hawaii News Now.

New name and new management for Waikiki hotel. KHON2.

Researchers at the University of Hawaii are celebrating a breakthrough discovery that could lead to the prevention of at least two types of cancer in certain people. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu City Council to meet Wednesday to discuss fuel tax, electrical and gas projects. Hawaii Independent.

We hear a lot about the homeless and prostitutes on the streets in Waikiki, but strolling down Kalakaua any given evening, those folk are outnumbered by artists and musicians.Hawaii Public Radio.

Hundreds came out to the Hawaii Convention Center to get an education on energy saving, sustainable living or just to see the latest trends in home remodeling. KITV4.

The Rehabilitation Hospital of the Pacific has been selected as one of 10 rehabilitation hospitals to partner with Berkeley Bionics to conduct trials on eLEGS Pro, a wearable, battery-powered exoskeleton that enables wheelchair users to stand and walk. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

A sobering new study of America's national parks rates Hawaii Volcanoes National Park "poor" in natural resources and only "fair" in cultural resources. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island presents fairly extensive challenges to a high-speed Internet infrastructure improvement initiative launched by the governor last week. Tribune-Herald.

Convincing the County Council to rethink its approval of new building standards has given bill opponents hope that hurricane-resistant designs and other costly requirements won't be made mandatory. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

After months of testimony and written arguments on the proposed Kula Ridge development, state Land Use Commissioners said Friday they expect to be ready to make a decision on the project by November. Maui News.

With rents at the state’s Honokowai Kauhale affordable housing project on Maui starting at $1,000 per month, 49 apartments that have been vacant for at least the past 12 months cost the state a minimum of $588,000 in annual gross income. Hawaii Reporter.

Kauai

Kapaia bridge towers to be stabilized. Garden Island.

The Kaua‘i County Council on Wednesday extended a hand to Japan’s Iwaki City, honoring a request from Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. to make the city ravaged by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami the Garden Island’s 15th sister city. Garden Island.


Tuesday, July 26, 2011

Hawaii farmworker trafficking case in court, angry teachers unfriending Gov. Abercrombie on Facebook, fishing cap raised, orcas a rare Kauai treat, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Fish rules workshop in Hilo (c) 2011 All Hawaii News
Hawaii's deepwater grouper and snapper stock has apparently rebounded to the point federal authorities are raising the commercial catch limit by 28 percent for the season that starts Sept. 1. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii State Teachers Association is officially "unfriending" Gov. Neil Abercrombie, but it's not stopping there. Civil Beat.

The charges and counter charges that continue to fly between the state and the union are taking both into untested areas according to former Hawaii State Teachers Association executive director Joan Husted. Hawaii Independent.

The state says a partial shutdown of the Federal Aviation Administration is not affecting any airport construction projects. KHON2.

The Hawaii Legislature will welcome lawmakers from the 13 Western states of Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington and Wyoming to Honolulu July 30-August 2. Hawaii Reporter.

Two brothers who run one of Hawaii’s largest vegetable farms are going to trial this week on federal charges they illegally shipped 44 workers from Thailand, housed them in dirty metal containers and forced them to work for little pay. Associated Press.

Statements that Aloun Farm owners Alec and Mike Sou gave federal prosecutors and law enforcement officials after their plea agreements last year can be used to impeach any future testimony they give in a human-trafficking case, a federal judge has ruled. Star-Advertiser.

Two days before the start of jury selection in their high-profile human trafficking case, the owners of Aloun Farms have asked a federal judge to dismiss more than half a dozen charges against them. Hawaii News Now.

The attorneys for the Alec and Mike Sou say a federal law against forced labor is being taken further than ever before...and asked Judge Susan Oki Mollway to throw the case out. KHON2.

The chief justice of Hawaii's federal court said Monday she will likely permit Civil Beat to live blog an upcoming human trafficking trial from inside the courtroom. Civil Beat.

A team of marine researchers was treated to the unusual sight of a small pod of orcas off Kauai during the weekend. Star-Advertiser.

The 14 reptiles turned over to authorities since June 29 have revealed an appetite in Hawaii for illegal, black-market snakes and lizards, which state officials say are likely sneaked in by shipping containers, through package delivery services and even carried by smugglers into airline passenger cabins. Star-Advertiser.

Water customers in Kihei, Wailea and Makena are asked to continue to conserve water this morning after a power outage Sunday knocked out several water sources that primarily serve the South Maui area. Maui News.

Kauai County considers HR department to curb sexual harassment. Garden Island.

Greenways and Trails Law Has Long-Term Goals. Hawaii Public Radio.

A National Park Service team is reviewing plans to preserve the former site of the Honouliuli internment camp. Associated Press.

Hawaiian Airlines says it will begin flying between Honolulu and Sydney on a daily basis all year round to meet higher demand for the service. Associated Press.

Five years ago, after the earth stopped shaking, Kalopa residents found themselves in a nightmare commute. Tribune-Herald.

Part of Kahekili highway was widened in the early 1990s, now residents are meeting to decide what will happen to the rest of the road. KITV4.

This nebula could clear up some questions astronomers have about what happens when a star dies. West Hawaii Today.

Next week, the Honolulu Star-Advertiser is going to start charging for some of its online content, becoming the third Hawaii news outlet to erect such a paywall. Pacific Business News.

When Tim Moyer first noticed the stand of shriveled wiliwili trees on his property above Launiupoko, people told him they were dead and would have to be removed. Maui News.

Monday, May 16, 2011

Kamehameha Schools opponents must be public, Hawaii 2012 politics show Hirono, Case, Lingle leaders, Abercrombie popularity 50%, rail transit pricey, state to buy more land for preservation, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. Neil Abercrombie (c) 2011 All Hawaii News
A new Hawaii Poll shows 50 percent of registered voters approve of the job that Neil Abercrombie is doing as governor, much lower than his predecessor at the same point in office, and a reflection of the difficulty Abercrombie has had in pushing his agenda forward. Hawaii News Now.

Former congressman Ed Case and U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono are tied in a hypothetical matchup in the Democratic primary for U.S. Senate, a new Hawaii Poll shows. Star-Advertiser.

Out of nine public figures and possible political candidates, Congresswoman Mazie Hirono garnered the highest favorable ratings in the Hawaii News Now/Honolulu Star-Advertiser Hawaii Poll. Hawaii News Now.

Former Gov. Linda Lingle told fellow Hawaii Republicans at the party's convention in Kauai over the weekend that she would decide by the end of August whether to run for the U.S. Senate next year. Civil Beat.

The Supreme Court has declined to hear a dispute over whether students challenging a private Hawaiian school system's admissions policy must be identified. Associated Press.

The first female soldier enlisted in the Hawaii Army National Guard 38 years ago … but it was only this year that a woman was promoted to General. Hawaii Public Radio.

Recently proposed Medicaid qualification standards would leave around 4,500 without health insurance around Hawaii. Molokai Dispatch.

Homeowners have a fighting chance with foreclosure law. Maui News.

Act 48 suspends nonjudicial foreclosures in Hawaii and creates a mortgage foreclosure dispute resolution program administered by the state Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs' Office of Administrative Hearings. Associated Press.

After concluding a grueling legislative session of tax raising and budget cutting, Hawaii lawmakers may find that their work is not yet done. Associated Press.

The state's Legacy Lands Conservation program is providing $4.5 million in grants for the purchase and protection of culturally and agriculturally important lands on the Big Island and Oahu. Associated Press.

The state plans to open a new H-1 freeway on-ramp and an off-ramp this week that are expected to remove traffic bottlenecks around some large shopping centers in Kapolei. KITV4.

The state Department of Transportation will not reopen the temporary Kapa‘a bypass road for another week as recent rainstorms have delayed resurfacing work. Garden Island.

While about half of Honolulu residents remain in favor of completing the rail transit system, nearly 9 in 10 agree the project is likely to cost more than the $5.3 billion estimated price tag. Star-Advertiser.

The price tag for preparation of the Honolulu rapid transit project’s environmental impact statement was originally $86 million but has since bulged to $156 million, a City spokesman confirmed today. Hawaii Reporter.

A bike rental program to promote an active lifestyle and reduce traffic will officially launch on Friday in Kailua. Star-Advertiser.

It would be a stretch to say that Hawaii’s renewable energy companies, the utilities and the public are moving together in harmony toward a clean energy future. Pacific Business News

A milestone in Manoa -- a special graduation ceremony. Thousands turned their tassels at the University of Hawaii's 100th commencement ceremonies. KITV4.

Mostly dry trade wind weather will prevail for the next several days, with brief showers favoring windward areas during nights and mornings. KHON2.

If you received your motor vehicle registration reminder notice in the mail this month, you might have noticed that the form looks different. Tribune-Herald.

Ka'u is well on the way of making a name for itself in the coffee industry on an island for many decades known primarily for its Kona-grown coffee. West Hawaii Today.

Monday, March 7, 2011

Hawaii volcano erupts, Abercrombie silences watchdog, electric company bargaining during strike, Maui resort owners head to court, Kauai waters unsafe, more Hawaii news

Kilauea fissure photo USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory
Madame Pele is putting on quite a show on the Big Island. KHON2.

A new vent that opened Saturday on Kilauea continued to erupt yesterday with quiet periods punctuated by curtains of lava 80 feet high, scientists at the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory said. Star-Advertiser.

The floor of Pu'u O'o crater collapsed Saturday afternoon and an eruption occurred along the middle of Kilauea Volcano's east rift zone, according to scientists at Hawaiian Volcano Observatory. Tribune-Herald.

Negotiators for Hawaiian Electric Co. and striking union workers held a marathon, closed-door session with a federal mediator yesterday with no word of progress in settling a strike that coincided with a widespread blackout. Star-Advertiser.

HECO President Richard Rosenblum comments on labor talks. Hawaii News Now.

Electrical power has been restored to most of Oahu, according to Hawaiian Electric Company and Hawaii Civil Defense. Hawaii Independent.

Crews of nonunion Hawaiian Electric Co. employees had restored power to all but about 500 customers by early Sunday morning, the company said in a statement issued at noon Sunday. Pacific Business News

A key player in Hawaii’s effort to cut oil dependency will soon run out of money. Hawaii Public Radio.

A month after contradicting Gov. Neil Abercrombie’s position on a public records issue, Office of Information Practices Acting Director Cathy Takase has been given her walking papers by Abercrombie. Hawaii Reporter.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie has informed the head of the state's open records agency that she's being laid off and that he plans to replace her with his own appointee. Civil Beat.

Unless the legislation undergoes further amendments when it goes before the full Hawai‘i House of Representatives, a proposal to create a state-run interisland ferry system has been effectively tabled. Garden Island.

Hawaii's three-strikes law was touted as a way to make the community safer, but since its passage nearly five years ago, the statute has been used only once and is now destined to quietly expire this summer. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii excise tax revenues for the current fiscal year were up at the end of January, but the state's general fund deposits were 2.1 percent lower compared to the same period last year because of delayed income tax refunds. Associated Press.

Governor Pushes Big Wind to be Pono. Molokai Dispatch.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has awarded a $37.9 million contract to a Chicago company to build a tactical maintenance facility at Schofield Barracks on Oahu. KITV4.

Store shelves and restaurants will be out of Hawaii's popular, fresh bottom fish soon as state and federal officials shut down catches in the main Hawaiian islands on Saturday. Star-Advertiser.

On Tuesday, Wailuku attorney Richard Rost will be in 1st Circuit Court in Honolulu asking for partial summary judgment in a lawsuit by a buyer at the Honua Kai Resort & Spa who is trying to back out of his purchase. Maui News.

Besides the alleged defects in the legal language of the sales documents, customers at Honua Kai Resort & Spa have alleged a wide range of omissions of pertinent information or of physical features that didn't appear when the project was built out. Maui News.

Heavy rains over the past couple weeks have made some coastal waters on Kaua‘i unsafe until further notice, health officials and local experts said.Garden Island.

Congress' two-year ban on earmarks won't jeopardize federal funding needed to complete the most-expensive government project being built on Hawaii Island. Tribune-Herald.

The cash-strapped Hawaii County government is leaving hundreds of thousands in unpaid property taxes on the table for the $60 million Target-Safeway complex in Hilo. West Hawaii Today.

Friday, March 4, 2011

More Hawaii hotel rooms full, appointed education board passed, Big Island bag ban bogs down, land chief confirmed, budget bills nixed, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Volunteers counting humpback whales last month saw an average of five every 15 minutes from sites on Oahu and Kauai. Those on the Big Island saw an average of four. Associated Press.

More than 800 volunteers gathered data from the shores of Oahu, Kauai, and the Big Island for Saturday’s annual Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary Ocean Count. Hawaii 24/7

William Aila Jr. was confirmed unanimously yesterday by the state Senate as director of the state Department of Land and Natural Resources, a vote of confidence in the former Waianae harbormaster's ability to manage a sprawling department that has struggled to protect the state's unique environment. Star-Advertiser.

Environmental groups are celebrating the confirmation of William Aila Jr. as the new Director of the Department of Land and Natural Resources. Hawaii News Now.

The state House Finance Committee has moved nearly two dozen bills that would generate revenue or reduce benefit costs, an alternative blueprint to Gov. Neil Abercrombie's plan to help balance the state budget. Star-Advertiser.

As Hawaii lawmakers near the half-way point of the legislative session, Gov. Neil Abercrombie's major revenue-generating proposals have mostly flopped.Civil Beat.

Hawaii moved a step closer to taxing certain pension payments and eliminating deductions for state taxes Thursday, after first turning down a Republican-led effort to table the measure. Hawaii Reporter.

After the Senate unanimously approved a measure yesterday giving him the power to directly appoint Board of Education members, Gov. Neil Abercrombie called for people who can "help bring change" to public schools to apply. Star-Advertiser.

After Hawaii voters approved the change to the constitution, the BOE could be fully replaced as soon as the middle of this month as a bill to establish an appointed school board heads for the governor's signature. KHON2.

The state transportation department has begun a big beautification and resurfacing project that will improve Ala Moana Boulevard and Nimitz Highway from Waikiki to Fort Street in downtown Honolulu. KITV4.

U.S. Sens. Daniel Inouye and Daniel Akaka say Hawaii is due to receive a $250,000 grant to help local businesses cater to the 20,000 visitors expected to come to Honolulu for November's Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation meeting. Associated Press.

The Honolulu Police Commission is finalizing its review of Louis Kealoha's first year as chief of police, after a closed-door discussion with him Wednesday. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii County Council bogged down on its bag ban bill Wednesday, after a minority-led move to schedule six public hearings effectively pushed a decision back until late November. West Hawaii Today.

Aina Koa Pono, the company planning on building a biofuel plant in Ka'u, is promising well-paying jobs, a more stable fuel supply and minimal environmental impacts once the project is completed. West Hawaii Today.

More and more homeless people are setting up tents on the sidewalks and in the park around the UH medical school in Kakaako. KITV4.

The Veterans Administration estimates there are more than 100-thousand former service members who are homeless on any given night in America. Hawaii Public Radio.

Developers would have to offer affordable homes to buyers and renters with varying incomes under a bill the County Council advanced by a unanimous vote Wednesday. Tribune-Herald.

North Shore’s shave ice attractions have taken center stage in plans to redevelop the historically popular area. Hawaii Independent.

More than eight out of every 10 Hawaii hotel rooms were full during the week ending Feb. 26, and average room rates across the state were notably higher than during the same week in 2010, according to data compiled by Smith Travel Research and Hospitality Advisors. Pacific Business News

Nominees for the 2011 Charter Commission were grilled about their opinions on district voting and other issues Wednesday, but a vote to approve them was postponed. Maui News.

Kaua‘i’s keiki are now able to enjoy new playground equipment at Puhi and ‘Oma‘o county parks, a county press release announced Wednesday. Garden Island.

Creighton and Cathy Mattoon thought they were helping the City develop a plan for the North Shore.

Monday, February 14, 2011

Hawaii volcano active, leaked speech shows Abercrombie uncertainty, Maui seeks to harness landfill gas, cheap inmate labor keeps unemployment high, Molokai flood zones revealed, more news from the Hawaiian Islands

Kilauea volcano
Scientists at the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory on the Big Island of Hawaii are looking at a swarm of small earthquakes that shook Kilauea Volcano last week. Hawaii News Now.

The lava lake at the summit of Halema'uma'u crater has been rising gradually in the last few months. Tribune-Herald.

The haze and vog that have been clogging the air over Oahu will spread and persist throughout the islands for the rest of the week, according to the National Weather Service. Star-Advertiser.

Bills to require genetically modified food to be labeled as such have been taken off the table this legislative session. Star-Advertiser.

Vacationers flock to Hawaii for the sun, sand and sea, but what about the stars. Hawaii lawmakers are hoping visitors can soon boldly go where only few have gone before - outer space. KHON2.

If you want to know what a veteran union lobbyist and ally of Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie really thinks of the state of things in Hawaii, read on. Civil Beat.

The demand for prison work crews as cheap labor for nonprofit groups, schools, churches and state and city agencies has skyrocketed over the past two years in an economy that forced deep cuts, layoffs and a mounting backlog of repair and maintenance projects. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie is making his case before lawmakers and an upset crowd of retirees that the state should end Medicare Part B reimbursements for public workers. Associated Press.

Taxpayers shouldn’t be surprised that both the administration and lawmakers are coming up with all sorts of platitudes about how we should lead healthier lives and contribute back to the community that are smoke screens for raising taxes. Garden Island.

If Hawaii lawmakers get their way this session, they will protect aquarium fish from harvest, ban feral cat trapping, import nonvenomous snakes for study, order the castration of wild donkeys, designate the Hawaiian Hoary Bat as the official state land mammal, keep dogs out of puppy mills, put Zoo elephants in a space to roam, ban shark tours and give tax credits for, well, worms. Hawaii Reporter.

Trash at the Central Maui Landfill creates gas, which Maui officials want to convert into energy. KITV4.

Converting those stinky gases from the Central Maui Landfill into electricity could create enough energy to power the equivalent of up to 3,000 Maui homes per year, according to a county-commissioned study. Maui News.

In rainy weather and through ankle-deep mud, county officials and Kapa‘a Solar LLC project members gathered under a tent Friday for a blessing and ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the state’s largest and Kaua‘i’s first solar farm. Garden Island.

Twenty years after Molokai’s first flood maps were released, Maui County and federal agencies have presented a major overhaul of flood zones on Molokai. Molokai Dispatch.

Hawaiian Airlines, ramping up service to the state's largest international tourism market, will inaugurate its second Honolulu-Japan flight when it begins daily nonstop service to Osaka in July. Star-Advertiser.

Volunteers using heavy equipment are working to replenish sand at Oahu's famed Makaha Surfing Beach. Associated Press.

Kamehameha Schools plans to renovate 46 rental units in three Moiliili apartment buildings owned by the Schools starting in April. KITV4.

The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands held lot selection for 20 homes on Saturday. KITV4.

Big Islanders showed Saturday that they love Roseanne Barr just as much as the controversial actress-comedian loves her new Big Island home. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Island's national parks offer residents and visitors alike a means for escaping the hustle and bustle of daily life to get back to the simplicity of old Hawaii. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii residents had the second-highest average credit card debt in the nation in January, according to consumer credit advocate CreditKarma.com. Pacific Business News

Spacenet recently received stimulus grant funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development to provide StarBand: Open Skies Alaska and Hawaii, a broadband service made available in rural areas. Molokai Dispatch.

Wednesday, December 29, 2010

Hawaii visitor spending up, Obama goes snorkeling, Abercrombie continues birther battle, Kauai budget woes, fireworks sales up, state drivers face ignition interlock, gas supply in doubt, Hokulia road fight in court, more news from the Hawaiian Islands

Visitor spending in Hawaii jumped more than 30 percent in November to $976 million, reflecting double-digit increases on all islands for the third consecutive month, according to figures released by the Hawaii Tourism Authority yesterday. Star-Advertiser.

Spending in Hawaii by tourists and other visitors in November skyrocketed by almost a third compared to a year ago. Associated Press.

President Barack Obama spent yesterday morning on the beach and afternoon on the golf course, both favorite destinations during his vacations in Hawaii. Associated Press.

Democratic Gov. Neil Abercrombie wants to find a way to release more information about President Barack Obama's birth and dispel conspiracy theories that he was born elsewhere. Garden Island.

Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie wants to find a way to release more information about President Barack Obama's birth and dispel conspiracy theories that he was born elsewhere.KHON2.

Chevron's Campbell Industrial Park refinery suffered a break down on Tuesday, company officials confirmed. KITV4.

There are concerns over Hawaii's supply of gasoline as the year comes to an end, along with dire predictions for future prices at the pump. KITV4.

Here in Hawaii, we are now seeing the highest gas prices of the entire year. KHON2.

For those ringing in the new year by drinking in the new year, take note: Hawaii's new ignition interlock law takes effect Saturday. Star-Advertiser.

Residents convicted of drunken driving will soon have to install sophisticated breath-monitoring devices on their vehicles if they want to legally drive. West Hawaii Today.

The county administration recently released its financial report for Fiscal Year 2010, which ended June 30, revealing a dim light at the end of the tunnel. Garden Island.

It's been a busy year for Honolulu police homicide investigators. The number of killings on Oahu has spiked from last year. Hawaii News Now.

There was a noticeable buzz among the steady stream of customers moving through the fireworks aisles at the Kaheka Street Don Quijote store yesterday. Star-Advertiser.

After surveying the damage Tuesday, it looks like we got off lucky. Sure there's clean-up to do, but considering how hard it rained Monday night, the mess isn't all that bad. Hawaii News Now.

The manager of Kobashigawa Farm said rain pounded down for six hours Monday night, while rising water flooded the green onion fields at the Waianae farm. KITV4.

State regulators have allowed Castle & Cooke to develop a 120-acre solar power farm near Mililani without facing competitive bidding. Associated Press.

The Department of Health has extended its Brown Water Advisory for Oahu, advising people to stay out of waters near river mouths and harbors. Hawaii News Now.

State and county officials are warning the public about potentially unhealthy brown water at beaches due to heavy rains. Maui News.

Tenants at a state housing project in Waimanalo have been given two days to get rid of their washing machines, because they're not hooked up to sewage lines and instead empty into storm drains or onto the grass. KITV4.

County attorneys are petitioning the 3rd Circuit Court to expedite their civil case against the insurance company holding the bond for the Mamalahoa bypass, while the County Council chairman says he favors issuing a new bond to get construction going, while seeking reimbursement through that insurance company. West Hawaii Today.

The funeral service for retired federal Judge Samuel Pailthorpe King will be held Wednesday at St. Andrews’s Cathedral. Hawaii Reporter.

Wailuku businessman Lloyd Kimura pleaded guilty to four counts of securities violations in 2nd Circuit Court Tuesday morning. Maui News.

American Community Survey indicates North Shore community has one of Hawaii's most dramatically improved local economies. Civil Beat.

The Ewa District on Oahu is fast resembling any other cookie-cutter suburb.Hawaii Independent.

State Rep. Bob Herkes is questioning what he calls a lack of competition in contracts for the Hawaiian Ocean View Estates water project and he's scheduled a Jan. 6 fact-finding hearing. West Hawaii Today.

A swimmer at King's Landing in Keaukaha who reportedly waved to onlookers and shouted for help Monday afternoon drowned before a rescue diver was able to retrieve him. Tribune-Herald.

A Texas court has blocked the release of an autopsy report on surfing champion Andy Irons at the request of his widow. Associated Press.

Creating a modern "Hawaii Five-0" was as intimidating as any drama Peter Lenkov could imagine. Star-Advertiser.

Friday, December 24, 2010

Obama birthers discredited, Abercrombie meets with Hawaii mayors, new senator suing the state, fugitive causes ruckus outside Obama vacation home, job market up, Big Island doubles police discipline, Lahaina library gets facelift, Maui beach issues unresolved, Kauai beaches hazardous, Oahu infrastructure failing, more Hawaii news

Neil Abercrombie knew Barack Obama's parents when the future president was born here in 1961, and he has been aggravated by the so-called birther movement, which alleges Obama was not born in the United States and thus should be expelled from office. Los Angeles Times.

Hawaii's four mayors met for the first time with Gov. Neil Abercrombie in his state capitol office Thursday. KITV4.

Newly appointed State Sen. Malama Solomon is suing the state over a water usage issue on Department of Hawaiian Home Lands pastoral property her family holds on the Big Island. Hawaii Reporter.

President Barack Obama, who planned to keep a low profile on his vacation in Hawaii, managed to avoid a bizarre turn of events yesterday just outside his security bubble. Star-Advertiser.

Associated Press Video

A man wanted by police is in custody tonight after tense moments in the Kailua neighborhood where President Obama and his family are vacationing. KHON2.

After a little bit of work and a morning workout, President Barack Obama hit the links on his first day of vacation in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

With warrants out for his arrest and police following his pick-up truck, Leon Rodrigues tried to get away by turning off Kalaheo Avenue onto Kailuana Place. Bad move. Hawaii News Now.


Parts of Hawaii could be in for another bout of very wet weather early next week. Hawaii News Now.

Many travelers are heading home for the holidays on what's considered one of the busiest travel days of the year. KHON2.

Disciplinary actions against Hawaii County police officers doubled in 2010 compared to previous years, with most suspensions coming from not filing incident reports on time. West Hawaii Today.


A state water official says a headline-grabbing water study that found a probable carcinogen in Honolulu's tap water was "irresponsible," since it drew its conclusion based on a single water sample. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island's drinking water is clear of dangerous concentrations of the "Erin Brockovich chemical" found in Honolulu's tap water. Tribune-Herald.

For construction workers in Hawaii, recent economic news has been bleak. But there may be some reason to cheer for job seekers in other industries. KITV4.

Wholesaler Pacific Fireworks will move 200,000 pounds of product this year. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiian Electric Co. hopes to replace a destroyed transformer for Ala Moana Center by this weekend, but the utility fears there could be further outages as it slowly switches from shaky backup systems. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Telcom customers around Oahu are reporting a number of outages to land-line services. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii has lost one of its most visionary and productive real estate developers, Herbert K. Horita, whose projects included Ko Olina Resort & Marina and thousands of Oahu homes. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii State Department of Health officials announced Thursday that a large quantity of storm water and landfill waste was discharged from the Waimanalo Gulch Sanitary Landfill into ocean waters between Ko Olina and the Kahe Power Plant.  KHON2.

Only 8,000 of 48,000 ballots for West Oahu’s City Council seat have been cast so far. Hawaii Independent.

From broad-ranging policy to specific projects, Hawaii County's legislators and a top administrator are looking ahead to 2011 and lining up their priorities. West Hawaii Today.

A hearing on the Keawakapu Beach parking dispute Tuesday was adjourned until Jan. 24. Work remains suspended under a restraining order from 2nd Circuit Judge Joel August. Maui News.

While Kipu Falls in the southeast and Queen’s Bath in Princeville may be some of Kaua‘i’s more popular visitor attractions, they’re also some of island’s more hazardous places to take a dip. Garden Island.

Scientists now have hard evidence for something they have long believed — that establishing no-fishing zones in the ocean will help replenish fish populations far away that have been over-harvested. Associated Press.

Permaculture may be a relatively new word, but the idea behind it is ancient. Permaculture comes from studying traditional native systems that were truly sustainable, one of them being the ahupua`a system of Hawaii. Molokai Dispatch.

Design work is under way on Lahaina Rotary Club’s “Operation Facelift” for Lahaina Public Library, said club President Carmen Karady. Lahaina News.