Obama administration moves toward Native Hawaiian recognition, state Ethics Commission to watch lawmaker spending, millions to move Waikiki homeless, Maui blogger disqualified from mayor's race, Kauai bill targeting crop research fails, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Native Hawaiian protest file photo © 2014 All Hawaii News

After years of inaction, the federal government is considering formal recognition of Native Hawaiians, even as Native Hawaiians in the state work on creating a sovereign government themselves. The U.S. Department of Interior announced Wednesday that it will take a first step to consider re-establishing a government-to-government relationship between the United States and the Native Hawaiian community. That process begins with a procedure known as Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, or ANPRM. West Hawaii Today.

The U.S. Department of the Interior on Wednesday announced it’s moving forward on a rule-making process for re-establishing a government-to-government relationship with Native Hawaiians. Civil Beat.

File photo © 2014 All Hawaii News

In a move that already is stirring controversy, the Obama administration is taking the first steps in a long process that could eventually lead to the federal government's recognition of a future Native Hawaiian governing entity. But some are questioning whether the action is premature and whether the president has the authority to re-establish a government-to-government relationship without going through Congress, as backers of the so-called Akaka Bill unsuccessfully tried to do for more than a decade.Star-Advertiser.

The federal government announced Wednesday it will take a first step toward recognizing and working with a Native Hawaiian government at a time when a growing number of Hawaiians are questioning the legality of the U.S. annexation of Hawaii. Associated Press.

Native Hawaiian recognition took a major step when the Obama Administration said it will consider procedures to re-establish a political relationship with Hawaiians. Hawaii News Now.

There's excitement, applause and also some words of caution after the federal government took the first steps toward possibly establishing a government-to-government relationship between the United States and Native Hawaiians. KITV4.

The US Department of Interior today announced the first step in the process of a possible “government-to-government” relationship between the United States and the native Hawaiian community. Big Island Now.

© 2014 All Hawaii News

U.S. Government Solicits Public Opinion on Hawaiian Governance. After the Crabbe-Kerry letter, the U.S. Department of the Interior is considering how and whether to establish government-to-government relations with the Hawaiian people. Hawaii Independent.

The US Department of the Interior today announced a first step to consider re-establishing a government-to-government relationship between the United States and the native Hawaiian community. Maui Now.

The federal government is considering whether the Native Hawaiian community should be treated as its own government. U.S. Department of the Interior officials said Wednesday they are taking a first step to consider re-establishing a government-to-government relationship between the United States and the Native Hawaiian community. Garden Island.

The federal government took a first step toward reestablishing a government to government relationship between the United States and Native Hawaiians. It would be similar to the tribal status of Native American Indian groups. Hawaii Public Radio.

The federal government announced Wednesday that it will take a first step toward possibly recognizing and working with a separate government of Native Hawaiians. Maui News.

A conflicted state Ethics Commission voted Wednesday to provide guidance to state lawmakers on the use of their annual legislative allowances, reminding lawmakers that using taxpayer money for personal expenses is prohibited by the state ethics law. Star-Advertiser.

The state Ethics Commission voted 3-2 on Wednesday to approve new guidelines for lawmakers to follow in an effort to tighten up how they have been using their annual allowance of almost $12,000 apiece. Civil Beat.

Janet Grace, Republican challenger to State Representative Tom Brower, today called on the Hawaii State Ethics Commission, to ban the use of legislative office funds to purchase sledgehammers and other weapons or instruments that could be used to bring harm to property or individuals. Hawaii Reporter.

Two people are getting paid, but just one of them is actually working. That’s essentially what’s happening in dozens of cases with the state Dept. of Education. Employees are put on leave with pay pending investigation while a fill-in does their work. This double-whammy for taxpayers can drag on for years KHON2.

A nonprofit that advocates for gun control says Hawaii has the second to the lowest gun death rate in the nation. Associated Press.

Smartphone use, video conferencing and hiring part-time corrections officers should be considered to ease staff shortages that have caused a rise in canceled visitation days at state prisons, a state senator said Wednesday. Sen. Will Espero, chairman of the Senate Public Safety, Intergovernmental and Military Affairs Committee, also suggested moving visitation days from weekends to a weekday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Prison System Faces More Scrutiny. Director Ted Sakai struggles to satisfy lawmakers' questions on why inmate visitation days are getting canceled. Civil Beat.

The state is suing a member of a state licensing board to recover $1,940 in fines after the board member failed to file two years of financial disclosure statements. Star-Advertiser.

A father and daughter from Chuuk are having to pay $1,250 in fines for attempting to smuggle 60 pounds of giant clam meat into Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Mayor Kirk Caldwell rolled out his revamped plan to deal with the homeless issue on Oahu on Wednesday, with a goal of helping more than 400 homeless individuals and families find permanent housing in the next two years via $47.2 million in various funding sources approved recently by the City Council. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell unveiled a more aggressive strategy Wednesday for tackling the homeless problem, which includes moving as many as 440 homeless people into permanent housing in the next two years. Civil Beat.

Homelessness in Waikiki is the number one complaint from many of the 200-thousand visitors there on any given day.  That, according to city officials, who are stepping up their efforts to address the problem. Hawaii Public Radio.

City leaders unveiled a two-part plan to tackle a growing and complex homelessness issue that will require increased law enforcement presence and additional housing to cater to those in the most need. Hawaii News Now.

Starting Monday, the 71,000 drivers who maneuver Kalanianaole Highway each day in East Oahu and the 25,000 drivers who use Kamehameha Highway in Waipio and Mililani will face roadwork — and lane closures — expected to last into 2016. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation has yet to name the city's $5.16 million rail project, and there appears to be no plans in the near future to give it a branded name. Pacific Business News.

The number of assaults committed by teenagers at Hawaii's Youth Detention Center in Kapolei tripled between 2010 and 2013, and officials blame the high number of mentally ill kids behind bars as one reason for the spike in beatings. Hawaii News Now.

A Kalihi charter school can keep its doors open despite a budget shortfall of more than $400,000 on the condition that its director and governing board resign, according to a Hawaii Charter School Commission decision made on Wednesday. Civil Beat.

Halau Lokahi Public Charter School will cease to exist at the end of this month unless its governing board and director agree to resign and turn over all financial records, the Charter School Commission decided Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Big Island coffee and macadamia nut growers will benefit directly from a package of agriculture bills Gov. Neil Abercrombie will sign today. The legislation largely boosts funding to fight invasive species, with $500,000 allocated to subsidize the purchase of fungal sprays to fight coffee berry borer beetles and $360,000 for combating another insect threatening macadamia nut orchards. Tribune-Herald.

Early arrivals to Onekahakaha Beach Park in Keaukaha on Wednesday morning were unhappy to discover that thieves made off with many of the park’s copper water spigots during the night. Tribune-Herald.

A $2,278,800 grant from the Federal Aviation Administration will help improve security at Hilo International Airport, U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) said Wednesday in a written statement. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

MAUIWatch founder Neldon Mamuad–one of seven people running for Maui County Mayor this year–got a bad break today when Maui County Clerk Danny Mateo voided his official nomination papers, saying Mamuad didn’t meet the deadline in filing his financial disclosure form.  Maui Time.

After being on paid administrative leave for nearly five months, Glenn Correa has given up his $114,770-per-year job as director of the county Department of Parks and Recreation, according to an email sent late last week to department employees. Maui News.

The Maui County Council has scheduled a Monday meeting to consider overriding Mayor Alan Arakawa's line-item veto of the fiscal 2015 county budget. Maui News.

The state Department of Agriculture has confirmed a small infestation of the invasive little fire ant at a hotel in the south Maui resort area of Wailea. Maui Now.

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs and the University of Hawaiʻi Maui College’s Hawaiian Studies Program, E Hoʻoulu Lāhui, joined together in a special blessing ceremony at Palauea in South Maui on Tuesday. Maui Now.

Kauai

A county bill aimed at taxing crop-research land separate from other agricultural land was deferred on Wednesday until Aug. 20, killing any chance of it going into effect during fiscal year 2015-2016. Garden Island.

The redevelopment of the iconic Coco Palms Resort on Kauai, which will be branded as a Hyatt resort, could mean up to 1,970 new jobs and $230 million infused into the Garden Isle’s economy, according to an economic impact report done by the project's developer. Pacific Business News.

Arnold Leong seeking to address, cut county waste. Garden Island.

Re-election likely for Hawaii Gov. Abercrombie, Honolulu councilman signs off on $1.2M loan from campaign contributor, GMO bills die in state Legislature, $27M makeover for Ellison resort, Murdoch to take Dole private, Snowden fallout continues, Maui undecided on Gene Simmons' bar, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie file photo

Hawaii governors live and die by the health of our economy, and its robust condition ahead of the 2014 election is the main reason Gov. Neil Abercrombie is flying high despite low approval ratings throughout his first term. Star-Advertiser.

The trial of a federal agent charged with killing a man inside a Waikiki McDonald's should be moved to U.S. District Court because publicity about racial issues and animosity toward the federal government could hinder a fair trial in state court, his attorney argued Tuesday. Associated Press.

The whistleblower who brought the NSA and PRISM into Americans’ living rooms is without a job. Almost as a postscript to the dramatic story, Booz Allen Hamilton, the federal contractor that employed 29-year-old Edward Snowden in the Hawaii office of the National Security Agency, announced Tuesday that the company had fired the former CIA technical assistant. Hawaii Reporter.

The father of the girlfriend of Edward Snowden described the leaker of national secrets as a shy and reserved man with convictions, but said today he’s “still shocked” by the news about him. Associated Press.

A blog authored by Edward Snowden’s girlfriend provides potential answers to several questions about the NSA leaker’s time working for the agency in Hawaii. The blog, which has since been deleted, also indicates Snowden may have enjoyed a final visit with his family before seeking refuge in Hong Kong last month. Talking Points.

A defense contractor accused of giving military secrets to a Chinese girlfriend half his age has moved to a Hawaii halfway house while he awaits trial, according to court records and his attorney. Associated Press.

The former CIA employee who leaked top-secret information about U.S. surveillance programs said in a new interview in Hong Kong on Wednesday that he is not attempting to hide from justice here but hopes to use the city as a base to reveal wrongdoing. Associated Press.

It’s been 35 years since voters amended the state constitution to say our public officials should have “the highest standards of ethical conduct,” and requiring the state and counties to establish codes of ethics. This seems like plenty long enough to work out the kinks in the law and get used to how it works. Civil Beat.

The state is reviewing the criteria that is used to evaluate care homes after the Legislature passing a bill this past session requiring the Department of Health to post the inspection reports online as of 2015. The bill, if Gov. Neil Abercrombie signs it or allows it to become law, says the reports must be fair to the care homes and to the public that depends on them. Civil Beat.

During the last session of the state Legislature, critics of genetically engineered food made a push to set labeling requirements for grocery shelves. Over a half dozen bills to label transgenic food, mostly focusing on imported items, were introduced. None of the bills made it through, partly due to concerns that they may be found unconstitutional. Tribune-Herald.

The effort to get the Akaka Bill passed has started again. Today Hawaii Senator Brian Schatz delivered a speech on the Senate floor for Native Hawaiians. Hawaii News Now.

Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard joined with 35 other Democratic freshmen to express reservations about the Trans-Pacific Partnership Free Trade Agreement (TPP FTA) negotiations and the prospect of delegating Fast Track “trade promotion authority” to the President. Hawaii Independent.

Jeff Mikulina, CEO of Honolulu-based Blue Planet Foundation, and Mark Glick, the head of Hawaii’s state energy office, have been invited to attend President Bill Clinton’s third annual Clinton Global Initiative meeting. Civil Beat.

State roundup for June 12. Associated Press.

Oahu

Honolulu City Council Chairman Ernie Martin said he signed off on two documents tied to cancellation of $1.2 million in loans to the nonprofit Opportunities and Resources Inc., whose leader contributed $4,200 to his political campaign committee. Martin said he does not believe there was a conflict of interest because he was not involved in the decision to forgive those loans. Star-Advertiser.

Federal records released Tuesday show Honolulu City Council chair Ernie Martin received more than $4,000 in campaign contributions from the president of an organization that had been given millions of dollars in grant money by the city department he ran. Civil Beat.

Honolulu has been ranked as the most expensive city in the U.S. to visit, according to TripAdvisor's TripIndex Cities 2013. KITV4.

Faustino Somera is among about 15 former Ewa Plantation workers and their spouses who were promised by plantation bosses, and later the city, that they could stay in their Varona Village homes until they died. But in the nearly two decades since the promises were made, little else has been done to maintain what many call the place that time forgot, or to make sure the homes there are available to former sugar workers as planned. Star-Advertiser.

The Ewa Plantation Cemetery spreads out over eleven acres. There are about 500 grave sites on the property, but the grass is so tall in spots it swallows grave markers. Hawaii News Now.

Sgt. 1st Class Maurice Smith, an Army journalist stationed at Fort Shafter, was on a rescue mission Tuesday to save his fallen comrades — the many homeless veterans who call Hawaii streets their home. Star-Advertiser.

A 150-pound boulder that came crashing down a hillside in Kalihi Valley on Monday has residents feeling nervous. It’s the same street where massive boulders damaged three homes last year. KHON2.

Hawaii

Genetically modified food has been on store shelves for 17 years in the United States. But determining what products contain genetically modified organisms, or GMOs, remains a challenge for even the most conscientious consumers. Tribune-Herald.

The 73,524-square-foot Waikoloa Highlands Center on Hawaii’s Big Island is on the market — again — this time for a slightly higher price of $23.2 million. Pacific Business News.

Thousands of people lined Akoni Pule Highway Tuesday morning to honor King Kamehameha I on the day named after him. West Hawaii Today.

Two examples of Hawaii’s living history are currently moored in Hilo’s Radio Bay as their crews prepare to continue a voyage around the state that will expand to a worldwide trip next year. Tribune-Herald.

Maui
With veteran rock 'n' roller Gene Simmons as one of its partners, Paia merchants and residents have mixed feelings about the new Rock & Brews restaurant and bar concept rolling into town. Maui News.

A Maui County Council committee will consider on Monday a resolution authorizing it to conduct an internal investigation into the potential misuse of county funds to demolish the Old Wailuku Post Office and conduct master planning for the Kalana O Maui campus expansion. Maui News.

Sen. Roz Baker and South Maui Rep. Kaniela Ing will hold a "talk story" and "End of Session Wrap-up" meeting with constituents from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Saturday at the Kihei Charter School campus at the Lipoa Center. Maui News.

Kauai

Cockfighting has been around for more than 6,000 years, according to historians. On Kauai, it was introduced by Filipino immigrants during the island’s early plantation days. Garden Islabnd.
http://thegardenisland.com/news/local/rooster-days-kill-or-be-killed/article_c5b9e064-d32e-11e2-a93c-001a4bcf887a.html

The Kauai County Council will put on its hospitality hats to host the 2013 Hawaii State Association of Counties annual conference at Kauai Beach Resort over two days next week. The conference begins June 20, with the annual HSAC executive committee meeting and general membership meeting. Garden Island.

The release of more than $41.2 million for capital improvement projects statewide includes funding for a string of projects on Kauai. Garden Island.

Molokai

A new flight service is landing on Molokai, bringing in a small business attitude that has already proven successful in Kalaupapa. Makani Kai Air is offering five flights daily to Honolulu and back, which began June 8, while keeping its twice daily Kalaupapa flights. Molokai Dispatch.

Lanai

The Four Seasons Resort Lanai at Manele Bay is scheduled to get a $27 million makeover, which includes renovations to its existing 236 rooms, upgrades at 140 Restaurant and the addition of a sushi bar and teppanyaki stations at Nobu Restaurant. Billionaire Oracle Corp. CEO Larry Ellison’s Lanai Resorts LLC recently submitted a special management area assessment for renovations permit to the Lanai Planning Commission. Pacific Business News.

Less than a year after he sold the island of Lanai, David Murdock is taking Dole Food Co. private again. The 90-year-old billionaire surprised Wall Street by offering $645 million to buy the 60 percent of Dole that he didn't already own. Hawaii News Now.

U.S. Army strengthens China ties in Hawaii, state Ethics Commission fines California film company for gifts, new county councils, prosecutors for Hawaii, Kauai, Dems mull new blood, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

U.S. Maj. Gen. Stephen Lyons and Maj. Tang Fen of China's People's Liberation Army, courtesy photo

The leader of a U.S. Army delegation to a disaster-relief exercise in China last week said Monday the drills are a stepping stone to building relationships between the two militaries. Associated Press.

The Army said it advanced disaster management cooperation with the People's Liberation Army on a trip to China by about 20 Hawaii-based soldiers, and the hope is the annual exchanges will expand in scope and size. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines’ Taiwan flights won’t be gateway to mainland China. Pacific Business News.

Democratic Party of Hawaii insiders are quietly beginning to talk seriously about the possibility that the state's top two elected officials may not seek re-election. By most indications, Gov. Neil Abercrombie will run for re-election in 2014 and U.S. Sen. Daniel K. Inouye will run for re-election in 2016. Civil Beat.

Sen. Daniel Akaka, who is three-fourths Native Hawaiian and one-fourth Chinese, introduced the first incarnation of his namesake legislation more than a decade ago. Unless something dramatic happens in coming weeks, he'll leave Congress without passing it — or even getting a straight up-or-down vote on it. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii State Ethics Commission closed the book Monday on violations of the state lobbyist law by Relativity Media, a California-based film company. The company got in ethical hot water in 2011 after failing to disclose gifts of movie DVDs to Hawaii lawmakers. Civil Beat.

Debris from the March 11, 2011, Japan tsunami is reaching a different stage in its drift across the Pacific, with heavier and larger objects contributing to coastal garbage patches in Hawaii, University of Hawaii researchers said. Star-Advertiser.

A recent series of field tests of the state's siren network, designed to bolster the trustworthiness of the emergency warning system, is now complete, kicking off Hawaii State Civil Defense's estimated $20 million refitting of the siren system. Star-Advertiser.

Last week, Gov. Neil Abercrombie launched the “Buy Hawai‘i, Give Aloha!” campaign urging consumers to buy locally made products during the holiday season. At the same time, shipping containers were already en route to the islands from the Pacific Northwest filled with Christmas trees. Garden Island.

Michael Gold took the helm as chief executive officer of the state's largest health insurer, Hawaii Medical Service Association, on Saturday. Star-Advertiser.

State roundup for December 4. Associated Press.

Oahu

The first annual audit of the books for the city of Honolulu's $5.27 billion rail project turned up some flaws in the rail project's accounting practices, and the board for the Hono­lulu Authority for Rapid Transportation wants to know more about city plans to prevent those problems in the future. Star-Advertiser.

An injunction on rail could increase the cost of the project by $149 million. KHON2.

Laid out in hundreds of pages of court documents is the case over one of the last hurdles before the rail project gets the unobstructed green light or gets bumped back to square one. KITV4.

An ongoing discrimination lawsuit against the Honolulu Police Department could cost taxpayers upwards of $300,000 for the city to contract with outside attorneys.Civil Beat.

The largest solar photovoltaic utility project on O’ahu was dedicated yesterday in Pearl City. Hawaii Public Radio.

University of Hawaii leaders and several Board of Regents members faced some tough questions at a "talk story" session in Manoa on Monday. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

Sitting at a dais draped with fragrant lei, a new Hawaii County Council took office Monday afternoon, and immediately fell into disagreement about who should be in charge. West Hawaii Today.

Deacon Larry Ignacio blesses Hawaii County Council (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Mayor Billy Kenoi started his second term, members of the new County Council took their oaths of office, and Mitch Roth became the county prosecuting attorney Monday. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County residents have a little more than a month before a ban on plastic bags at the store, farmers markets and restaurants begins taking effect. West Hawaii Today.

Overnight stays in a hospital are almost never a reason to celebrate, but patients say that Hilo Medical Center is succeeding in its ongoing mission to improve the experience for them. Tribune-Herald.

Kona Community Hospital is surveying community members on what they would like to see included in a new hospital. West Hawaii Today.

An unusual sight on the Big Island, Rainbow Falls, one of the most famous waterfalls in the world has dried up. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

Kahului Airport and Maui Memorial Medical Center will get the largest chunks of state money for Maui County from Gov. Neil Abercrombie's release last week of more than $44 million for various capital improvement projects state-wide, according to an announcement from the Governor's Office. Maui News.

The state is holding a public meeting to inform the community about a comprehensive watershed study being conducted for the West Maui “Ridge to Reef Initiative.” Maui Now.

Bids for the demolition of the 51-year-old former Wailuku Post Office/Federal Building across the street from the Kalana O Maui building are being accepted. Maui News.

The Coast Guard this afternoon suspended the search for a small plane, piloted by Maui pastry chef Jose Krall, that disappeared from radar on a flight from Maui to Molokai on Saturday evening. Maui News.

Officials at Haleakalā National Park are asking for the public’s help in protecting the endangered Hawaiian goose or nēnē as they prepare for the upcoming nesting season. Maui Now.

Kauai

It’s official: the Kaua‘i County Council has a new formation. The seven council members for the next two years were sworn in by Judge Randal Valenciano at an inauguration ceremony at the Kaua‘i War Memorial Convention Hall Monday. Garden Island.

Justin Kollar was sworn in as the County of Kaua‘i prosecuting attorney Monday afternoon at the Kaua‘i War Memorial Convention Hall. Garden Island.

Uphill climb for Native Hawaiian recognition bill, Honolulu train stalled by human remains, coqui frogs heard on Oahu, BYOB survives on Maui, Habitat for Humanity building Big Island homes, yacht racing may come to Lanai, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Native Hawaiian protest (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

A Senate committee advanced the newest version of a Native Hawaiian federal recognition bill Thursday, signaling the start of a last-ditch campaign to gain a full Senate vote on the bill before its chief sponsor retires. Star-Advertiser.

U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka's office says the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs has amended and passed a bill granting federal recognition to Native Hawaiians. KITV4.

Thursday was a good day for Sen. Daniel Akaka and the Native Hawaiian Government Reorganization Act that he hopes will be his legacy. Civil Beat.

The Public File: Hirono, Lingle Each Spend $1 Million On TV Ad Time. Civil Beat.

Next year, the Chinese space mission Chang’e 3 is embarking on the first soft moon landing in 40 years — and Hawaii scientists will have a pair of eyes on the trip. Civil Beat.

The State Senate's investigation into UH's Stevie Wonder concert fiasco and its aftermath is expanding in scope to include numerous financial and management issues at the university, and could continue for several weeks. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii has paid more than $80,000 in worker’s compensation benefits to another dead man. Associated Press.

Eleven years of war have taken their toll on U-S Servicemembers and their families. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu
The first human remains to be discovered in the path of the Honolulu rail project have been unearthed in Kakaako by a crew conducting an archaeological survey for the project. Star-Advertiser.

The first human remains have been found along the proposed Honolulu rail route, ratcheting up the tension that has gripped the city's transit project when it comes to the sensitive issue of Native Hawaiian burials. Civil Beat.

Human remains have been found along the route of Honolulu’s rail transit project in the city’s Kakaako area, the first burials discovered during archaeological surveys of the 20-mile route. Pacific Business News.

Archeologists surveying the planned route of Honolulu’s rapid transit line discovered a single human bone fragment yesterday afternoon near Cooke Street in Kakaako.Hawaii Reporter.

Excavation continues tomorrow at the site of the first bone fragment discovered along Honolulu's proposed rail route. KHON2.

The Hawaii Supreme Court ruling that stopped construction on the Honolulu rail line is expected to delay work for the next nine months while the city completes an archaeological survey along the route and obtains new permits to resume building, transit officials were told Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

The city of Honolulu is rehashing old arguments in its request for the Hawaii Supreme Court to reevaluate its recent decision stopping the $5.26 billion Honolulu rail project, according to court documents filed Thursday by the Native Hawaiian Legal Corporation. Civil Beat.

With Ben Cayetano opposing the Honolulu Rail on environmental grounds, and Kirk Caldwell supporting the Rail as green, it’s time to take a look at which one is the more credible advocate for the environment. Honolulu Weekly.

Invasive-species investigators will be looking into at least 12 reports of coqui frogs across Oahu as a result of the "Go Out and Listen Night!" surveillance event Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Thursday morning a meeting was held at HTA headquarters at the Hawaii Convention Center to discuss how large tour buses could continue to bring visitors to the popular beach parks without disturbing Kailua residents. KITV4.

Kamehameha Schools is expanding food production on land it owns in Punaluu as part of an effort to improve management and use of its vast agricultural property holdings. Star-Advertiser.

Hotel employees at the Turtle Bay Resort voted overwhelmingly Thursday to authorize a strike. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii
A Maui pilot must make amends for illegally flying axis deer to the Big Island by providing a group trying to eradicate the invasive species there with 500 hours of helicopter flight time — an act of restitution expected to cost him more than $300,000. Associated Press.

Veteran helicopter pilot Thomas Leroy Hauptman will provide the Big Island Invasive Species Committee 500 hours of flight time as restitution for illegally transporting Maui axis deer to Hawaii island. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii County Councilwoman Brenda Ford will introduce at the Sept. 18 Planning Committee meeting a resolution to urge the state Legislature to abolish the Public Land Development Corporation. Tribune-Herald.

Habitat for Humanity West Hawaii’s 2012 Blitz Build in Kona got under way as the sun rose over Hualalai with hundreds of volunteers eager to construct five affordable family homes within 10 days. West Hawaii Today.

Work may begin next week on replacing a sewer underneath Kalanianaole Avenue in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

A weekly farmers market may be returning to Captain Cook, two years after it was moved because of complaints about traffic. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii Board of Land and Natural Resources could revoke a permit for the kayak tour company that led a group of teens when one from New York was swept out to sea. Hawaii News Now.

Kona-based microalgae producer Cyanotech Corp. said Thursday it has secured a $5.5 million long-term loan agreement to make a major investment in its production facility. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

The Maui County Liquor Control Commission on Wednesday voted down a proposal to exclude hotel and condominium hotel liquor licensees from a law allowing customers to bring their own bottle of wine to restaurants to consume with meals. Maui News.

With reports showing a decrease in complaints and noise levels from bars at Kihei Kalama Village, the Maui County Liquor Control Commission voted Wednesday to take no action on a proposal to ban late-night music, dancing and entertainment at the Kihei complex. Maui News.

Maui motorists are advised that the transport of wind turbine components for the Auwahi Wind Farm project in Ulupalakua will begin next week. Maui Now.

Kauai

After nearly six hours of discussion and public testimony, the Kaua‘i Planning Commission’s three-member Subdivision Committee on Tuesday deferred a decision on whether to recommend an 8-year extension on subdivision permits for a proposed development of more than 2,000 acres of prime agricultural land across Kealia Beach, at the north end of Kapa‘a Town. Garden Island.

“Start Something!” is the call to action to the community by the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kaua‘i as school children begin to settle in to the new school year. Garden Island.

Instruction  in how to shaka, led by Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr., is an aspect of the three-week intensive English and Experiential Learning program being undertaken by six students of the Oshima National College of Maritime Technology, more commonly known as Oshima Shosen, or Merchant Marines. Garden Island.

Lanai

Billionaire Larry Ellison is considering plans to bring his America's Cup-winning racing team to Lanai for training in a move that would bring a huge lift to the island's economy. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii House majority opposes tax hike, statewide energy plan draws heat, one last shot at Akaka Bill, Big Island police look into voter fraud allegations, electricity bills rise, fall, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii state Capitol (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

A majority in the state House opposes recommendations from a consultant to the Tax Review Commission that call for several new tax increases to help finance state government, including an increase in the general excise tax. Star-Advertiser.

Tax hikes proposed by mainland consultants got a cold shoulder at the state Capitol Tuesday. KHON2.

The state Tax Review Commission heard unanimous opposition today to a suggested increase in the state general excise tax. Hawaii Reporter.

The State Tax Review Commission met today to hear public comment on two 2 consultant studies that recommend tax hikes to meet future state funding needs. Hawaii Public Radio.

The tax review commission took public testimony Tuesday on two consultant reports that examined the state’s current tax policy and structure. KITV4.

Randy Iwase began Tuesday's Hawaii Tax Review Commission hearing at the state Capitol by reminding everyone of the terrorist attacks on the United States. Civil Beat.

Concerns about proposed wind turbine projects on Lanai and Molokai dominated public comments Tuesday night at a meeting held by state and federal officials who are putting together a document to help plan renewable energy development in the state. Star-Advertiser.

Based on public comment, the US Department of Energy is now studying a range of other options including solar, geothermal and hydroelectric. KHON2.

The state has paid a private company $3 million to conduct environmental reviews for the Big Wind project. But that study, paid for with federal stimulus funds, has been essentially scrapped as the state and U.S. Department of Energy embark on a new study that doesn't favor any particular energy source or location. Civil Beat.

The Senate Committee on Indian Affairs will take up the namesake legislation of retiring Chair Daniel Akaka in his final attempt to advance the cause of Native Hawaiian government that will be his legacy. Civil Beat.

Hawaii tech companies enlist the help of U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye to deal with wireless broadband limits. Civil Beat.

More satellites and sophisticated equipment are available to weather forecasters to better track hurricanes since the wrath of Hurricane Iniki struck Hawaii two decades ago. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu
Senior citizens and persons with disabilities would ride TheBus and TheHandi-Van for free under a proposal introduced by City Council Chairman Ernie Martin and up for Council consideration today. Star-Advertiser.

Street performers protest police arrests. Hawaii News Now.

An Australian property services company announced plans Tuesday for developing a gated community with 353 homes in Makaha Valley on land zoned for agriculture. Star-Advertiser.

The state agency soliciting bids to build a 650-foot tower that includes workforce housing on state land in Kakaako released the names of bidders Tuesday, reversing an earlier position to keep their identities secret until a preferred plan was chosen. Star-Advertiser.

A year after debating whether to eliminate a city subsidy aimed at encouraging private companies and nonprofits to recycle, City Council members again appear ready to do away with the incentive. Star-Advertiser.

Residential electricity rates fell on Oahu in September for the third consecutive month, mainly reflecting a decline in Hawaiian Electric Co.'s fuel costs. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The Hawaii Police Department is investigating allegations of voter fraud involving the 2010 elections. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County police detectives have opened an investigation into allegations of voter fraud during the 2010 election. Star-Advertiser.

A Honolulu attorney, apparently stuck in a political dispute between the County Council and Mayor Billy Kenoi’s administration, has not been paid more than $9,000 owed him after being retained in January by Council Chairman Dominic Yagong. West Hawaii Today.

Harry Kim has made little progress with filling his campaign war chest. And that’s just fine with him. Tribune-Herald.

Twenty officers have been directed to quash a rash of burglaries and car crimes in South Kona that police attribute to an organized group of drug users trying to feed methamphetamine habits, officials said Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County Councilman Fred Blas is joining the call for a geothermal health study. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Island residential rates rose to 40.7 cents a kilowatt-hour from last month's 40.1 cents. The typical bill rose by $3.87 to $254.69. Star-Advertiser.

A University of Hawaii at Hilo pharmacy professor has received a $675,000 career development award from the National Cancer Institute. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

Maui residents will have a rare opportunity to visit a national wildlife refuge on a weekend this Saturday. Associated Press.

The long-planned Kihei high school campus is not expected to have a "significant" impact on traffic along Piilani Highway and surrounding areas when it opens in 2016, according to the project's final environmental impact statement filed late last week. Maui News.

Maui Electric Co. customers saw rates fall to 34.9 cents per kilowatt-hour this month from 35.40 cents in August. The typical Maui bill fell by $3.18 to $218.12. Star-Advertiser.

In order to further promote electric cars on Maui and educate the public about what their engines look like, how they work and are charged up, and how they handle firsthand, local supporters are hosting a local National Plug-In Day event Sept. 22 at the Maui Swap Meet. Maui News.

Family pleads for the return of sentimental framed picture. Maui News.

Kauai

The Kaua‘i Planning Commission’s three-member Subdivision Committee by a 2-1 vote Tuesday deferred decision on an extension request for a subdivision of agriculture lands at Olohena Road in Kapa‘a. Garden Island.

A California woman accused of collecting about $398,000 in state disability payments on behalf of her dead father for 21 years is scheduled to plead guilty next month. Star-Advertiser.

Public invited to join mayor in weekly walks. Garden Island.

The Kauai Island Utility Cooperative has entered into a deal with Unitek Solvent Services Inc. to purchase fuel oil to generate electricity that would help lower the cost of power on the island as well as its dependency on out-of-state sources of fuel. Pacific Business News.

On Kauai the electricty rate rose to 43.1 cents per kilowatt-hour. Last month the rate charged by the Kauai Island Utility Cooperative was 40 cents per kilowatt-hour. Star-Advertiser.

Give Lanai back to the Hawaiians: Commentary

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

The island of Lanai is for sale! And with that sale comes a solution to the Hawaiian sovereignty problem.

Native Hawaiian protest at the governor's mansion
 (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

We've been hearing about Native Hawaiian rights and sovereignty for decades. Numerous boards and commissions have been authorized.

 Gov. Neil Abercrombie created yet another one just this year. The Native Hawaiian Roll Commission "starts the process that will eventually lead to federal recognition of Native Hawaiians," his website says. Yep, sounds like they're going to get right on it, doesn't it?

Countless reams of reports have been generated, special schools and all-Hawaiian language programs created, tax incentives proposed. The battle over sovereignty made its way to Congress in the form of the Akaka Bill, where it died a quiet death.

Meanwhile, racial tensions simmer, occasionally bubbling to the surface in the Aloha State. Just this week, two commentaries caught my eye.

Rep. Mele Carroll, ceded lands protest
(c) 2012 All Hawaii News

 Civilbeat's "Can a White Federal Agent Who Killed a Hawaii Local Get a Fair Trial?" explains how a Honolulu attorney representing U.S. special agent Christopher Deedy, who shot a local man in a Waikiki McDonald's, wants to make sure this long-simmering tension doesn't keep his client — who is charged with murder — from getting a fair trial.

Maui Now's "Once a Haole, Always a Haole," appears to be an attempt at humor, but it has generated a lot of controversy on the Maui Now website and Facebook page.

But it all boils down to land. You cannot be a self-governing people without land.

The solution is so simple, government will never consider it. But it's time the state of Hawaii stepped up and did the right thing.

(c) 2012 All Hawaii News

With the island of Lanai on the real estate market, the state could purchase it and turn it over to the Hawaiians for self-governance. Abercrombie has been meeting with Castle & Cooke, the sellers, and the price is expected to be in the neighborhood of $500 million.

The state already owns about 2 percent of the 141 square miles of the sixth-largest Hawaiian Island, which became the property of billionaire David Murdock in 1985. It's already got infrastructure, roads, a school, an airport.

How hard could that be? Float a bond, buy the land, set up a temporary government -- using, say the Office of Hawaiian Affairs ($8.3 million annual budget) and the Department of Hawaiian Homelands (annual general lease revenues of $8.1 million). Start the government, dismantle those two agencies and use the savings  to pay off the bonds.

Give Hawaiians a choice which government they want to belong to, or allow them to hold dual citizenship. Hawaiian sovereignty? We can, brah.

New Akaka Bill offered, IRS seeks Hawaii taxpayers, restaurant inspectors stretched, Hawaii marijuana heads to Colorado, recycling rates up, more state news

U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka has introduced a compromise version of a native Hawaiian federal recognition bill and is waiting to hear from Senate leaders whether legislation can move during a lame-duck session before the end of the year. Star-Advertiser.

The IRS is looking for people in Hawaii to give money to. The agency said Wednesday that 735 Hawaii residents are due a total of $739,000 in refunds, but it can't find them. Associated Press.

The state has set aside nothing to pay for retiree health benefits for its aging public workers over the next three decades, leaving future taxpayers on the hook for the estimated $10.8 billion cost. Star-Advertiser.

The largesse in congressional earmarks awarded to Hawaii each year is in position to be severely curtailed, with Republicans in Washington coalescing around a ban on pork-barrel projects and President Barack Obama saying the nation cannot afford them. Associated Press.

Millions of meals are served every year on Oahu but there are only 10 inspectors making sure health guidelines are followed which means there are plenty of violations out there that aren't being found. Hawaii News Now.

A group of Hawaii residents who say they are really good at growing pot said they have found success in the medical marijuana industry in Colorado. KITV4.

A state agricultural advisory committee has recommended an emergency quarantine on the Big Island to prevent the spread of a beetle that could severely damage Hawaii's $27-million coffee-farming industry. Star-Advertiser.

After a three-hour hearing today, the committee recommended in favor of a one-year quarantine but suggested adding more mitigation methods. A full board hears the matter next Tuesday. KHON2.

The state has increased the rates it pays for redeemable aluminum cans, glass bottles and plastic bottles. Associated Press.

A national organization has given the University of Hawaii a grade of "F" for online security breaches that exposed Social Security numbers and other sensitive information in nearly 260,000 records. Star-Advertiser.

The Washington D.C. based Liberty Coalition said over the last five years the University of Hawaii has had five security breaches involving at least 259,000 records. KITV4.

“Change, not charity” is the motto used by Hawaii People’s Fund (HPF) Hawaii Independent.

Tension and confusion about the state Tax Department's new crackdown on "cash economy" businesses escalated yesterday when city parks officials barred some vendors from learning about the new rules -- and Mayor Peter Carlisle took responsibility for the abrupt cancellation of the 36th annual Mayor's Craft and Country Fair scheduled for Saturday. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Mayor Peter Carlisle said Wednesday the city needlessly cancelled a craft fair this weekend that raises money for senior clubs. KHON2.

Honolulu's 36th annual mayor's craft and country fair may happen after all. Hawaii News Now.

A proposal to lower the county homeowner tax exemption was deferred Tuesday by the Maui County Council Budget and Finance Committee. Maui News.

Honolulu Mayor Peter Carlisle says he's not happy about reports of excessive use of overtime by city road division employees and promised to look into the issue, following a series of stories Civil Beat published this week. Civil Beat.

Police have cited more than 700 Big Island drivers for driving while using a cell phone so far this year, including 38 instances linked to car crashes. Tribune-Herald.

Wild Donkey Round-Up Underway on Big Island. KITV4.

Most of the dogs received at the island’s only animal shelter later found homes, but the majority of cats collected were euthanized, according to the Kaua‘i Humane Society’s annual report to county officials. Garden Island.

After two years of multimillion dollar losses, Parker Ranch Foundation Trust made money last year and now wants to raise more by hosting special events at its Waimea rodeo arena. Tribune-Herald.

The National Weather Service in Honolulu has placed the island of Oahu under a Flash Flood Watch effective from 6:00PM this evening thru Friday afternoon. Hawaii Reporter.

Maui Fire Department officials are asking for an additional $1.1 million in funding, saying an unusually busy brush fire season has depleted their budget. Maui News.

They're all over the island: in former Hamakua cane fields, running across a'a in the Ka'u desert, crossing the Mauna Kea uplands: stretches of abandoned or semi-abandoned road, owned but no longer maintained by the state or the county. Big Island Weekly.

A West Hawaii subdivision is a step closer to getting county water, after a County Council committee gave its approval to a county department manager's plan to create a water improvement district there. West Hawaii Today.

Construction at Cooke Memorial Pool in Kaunakakai could not have come at a worse time for the Molokai High School (MHS) swim team. Molokai Dispatch.

Honolulu faces $100M shortfall, pro-development planning director picked, Kona coffee quarantine mulled, bag ban booted, media group files FCC complaint, more on Akaka Bill, Inouye, other Hawaii news

Photo (c) 2010 allhawaiinews

A long-sought federal law allowing native Hawaiians to form their own government stands little chance of passing Congress before year's end, and its approval may be even less likely after a Republican House majority takes office in January. Associated Press.


Sen. Dan Inouye is on his way to a 9th term in the U.S. Senate and another stint as Senate Appropriations Committee Chair. KHON2.

Gov.-elect Neil Abercrombie will get to appoint every member of the new Board of Education, but how much leeway he has in choosing candidates is still up in the air.Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Mayor Peter Carlisle predicts the city could face a budget shortfall of more than $100 million next year so he’s making major cuts to the city's construction plan to help balance the budget. KITV4.

The man Mayor Peter Carlisle wants to run the city's planning department told Civil Beat Tuesday that he can't think of a major development project he's opposed. Civil Beat.

Honolulu County's latest effort to ban plastic bags appears stalled and unable to advance despite successful plastic bag bans in Maui and Kauai counties. KITV4.

Free Press, the nation’s leading media reform organization, will bring the concerns of Hawaiians directly to the FCC, filing complaints about Raycom Media’s takeover of 3 TV stations in Hawaii. Hawaii Reporter.

Kahuku High School will not play another football game this season, after a court denied an injunction that would have put them back in the state playoffs. KHON2.

A planned week-long closure of the H-power plant for maintenance has resulted in major backups at the Waimanalo Gulch landfill. KHON2.

Unite Here Local 5 has announced it has reached a tentative new contract that would cover nearly 1,800 workers at Kaiser Permanente Hawaii. Associated Press.

The Honolulu Board of Realtors reports October residential resales were down from the same month last year. Associated Press.

As night fell over the Hawaiian Islands Tuesday Australian long distance swimmer Penny Palfrey was believed to be swimming somewhere in the Kaieie Waho Channel between Oahu and Kauai. She was trying to become the first person to swim the 72 mile crossing. Hawaii News Now.

A number of dust devils popped up over Central Oahu on Tuesday, viewers reported. KITV4.

The Waianae Coast is a place of spectacular coastlines, dramatic backdrops, and a rich history. Hawaii Independent.

State agriculture officials will consider an embargo on inter-island shipments of Kona green coffee beans at a meeting scheduled for Nov. 17 in Honolulu. West Hawaii Today.

A Nov. 17 meeting has been set to discuss one or more quarantine zones for Big Island coffee to combat the spread of the coffee berry borer. Tribune-Herald.

At a time when the Maui Police Department is filling its ranks with police officers, the Maui County Council's Budget and Finance Committee recommended Monday to accept a $1.63 million federal grant to employ six new officers. Maui News.

Herman Andaya Jr. has been picked as chief of staff for the new administration of Mayor-elect Alan Arakawa, according to an announcement Monday. Maui News.

Site sought for Kona judiciary complex. West Hawaii Today.

The second largest public charter school in the state has dismissed its top two administrators. Associated Press.

After a yearlong delay for redesign, Connections Public Charter School is moving forward with its master plan for a $20 million, 90,000-square-foot campus on state land in upper Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

A South Kohala developer who failed to meet a state deadline to build affordable housing wants a two-year extension. West Hawaii Today.

Where was everyone? That was a question on a lot of minds Monday night when the county’s Anti-Drug Office hosted its first of four community meetings centering on the theme of “Taking Care of Our ‘Ohana Is Our Kuleana.” Garden Island.

Simply defined, horticulture means “cultivation of gardens” or “simple agriculture without many tools.” Molokai Dispatch.

The Kalaupapa National Historical Park has announced repairs have been completed to the only land route to the leprosy settlement on Molokai. Associated Press.