Abercrombie wants to raise hotel tax, Hawaii Legislature kills fish protection bills, Hawaiian Electric zapped by legislative committee, Native Hawaiian students want tests in their own language, iconic Coco Palms could lose renovation permits, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Royal Kona Resort (c) 2013 All Hawaii News

Prompted by the record visitor arrivals, Gov. Neil Abercrombie is proposing to raise Hawaii's transient accommodations tax by 2 percentage points. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii fishermen organized successfully to kill a bill that would have limited the type of nets they use to fish. Associated Press.

A controversial bill to require holders of aquarium fish permits to specify all species collected, and in what collection areas, has been deferred indefinitely. West Hawaii Today.

They're back: gambling proposals at the Hawaii Legislature. Civil Beat.

Hawaii already has among the strictest firearms laws in the nation, and some of the most cumbersome registration and training requirements, but if key lawmakers get their way, the laws will become even tougher for firearms owners and anyone who lives in their home. Hawaii Reporter.

Holding signs that read, "No more unfair testing," hundreds of Hawaiian-immersion students and supporters gathered on the lawn of the Department of Education building Tuesday to call for the development of standardized assessments in the Hawaiian language. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric Co. executives speaking at an informational briefing at the state Capitol on Tuesday got an earful from state legislators who complained the utility is not moving fast enough to reduce electric rates. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's electric rates are so high some residents have been forced to burn candles at night and cook on kiawe, lawmakers say. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Electric Co. officials were hesitant Tuesday to pick one path as the sole avenue to reduce Hawaii’s high energy costs. West Hawaii Today.

It’s a well-known fact that Hawai’i has one of the highest electricity rates in the nation…and state lawmakers conducted an information hearing yesterday to find out what the public utilities are doing to bring costs down for local customers. Hawaii Public Radio.

Foster parents urged state legislators Tuesday to support a bill that would increase their monthly reimbursement checks for the first time since 1990. Star-Advertiser.

A bill introduced in the State Legislature aims to tighten the current seat belt law, and ultimately save lives. KHON2.

Lawmaker Raises Alarm About Geothermal Fracking in Hawaii. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Lawmakers Aim to Strengthen Laws Against Sex Offenders Targeting Children. Hawaii Reporter.

All of Hawaii's counties have passed bans on plastic shopping bags for most purchases, but state legislators now are proposing fees on all bags at checkout. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority has selected nearly 100 cultural and community events and programs statewide to receive funding under its County Product Enrichment Program for 2013. Pacific Business News.

State roundup for January 30. Associated Press.

Oahu

Vice Speaker John Mizuno says he drafted a letter to William Aila, director of the Department of Land and Natural Resources, urgently requesting a survey of any potential risks associated with a Kalihi Valley hillside after three boulders rolled down and damaged a home Monday morning. KITV4.

Kaiser Permanente Hawaii's licensed practical nurses and medical assistants protested possible registered nurse layoffs by distributing informational leaflets Tuesday to members at the Hono­lulu Clinic and Moana­lua Medical Center. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Big Island lawmakers are once again seeking to allow Hawaii County to use some of its fuel tax revenue to help subdivisions maintain their private roads. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Electric Light Co. will withdraw a 4.2 percent rate increase request that would have raised the average homeowner’s bill by $8.32, according to Gov. Neil Abercrombie. Tribune-Herald.

It will cost at least $552 nightly for a private security service to patrol the Kawa Bay property purchased by the county, according to bids opened Tuesday afternoon. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

First Wind officials said Tuesday that they have started work on a program to preserve the population of threatened or endangered Hawaiian seabirds in West Maui, several miles from the company’s Kaheawa Wind project. Pacific Business News.

A Coast Guard aircraft was forced to return to Oahu after being targeted by an individual with a laser pointer while flying into Kahului Airport on Maui on Monday night, authorities said. Maui Now.

Kauai
Kauai County's planning director filed a petition Tuesday to revoke permits issued to the property owner of Coco Palms Resort, citing inaction to restore and redevelop the historic site. Star-Advertiser.

Two decades after Hurricane ‘Iniki delivered a merciless blow to Coco Palms Resort in Wailua Beach, the iconic hotel — now a visual blight on the island’s busiest corridor — may have a much more difficult time returning to its former glory, after its permits to re-develop the property expired last week. Garden Island.

After many expansions, the Kekaha Landfill — the island’s only landfill — will reach capacity by 2021 or 2022, according to county officials. Garden Island.

Steven A. Hunt was named Kauai County director of finance by Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. on Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Abercrombie seeks redo of Public Land Development Corp., Hawaii union membership rises, Legislature mulls sugar tax, legal marijuana, $750M to fix Honolulu airport, Hawaii County Council fights geothermal, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Ala Wai boat harbor (c) 2013 All Hawaii News

The Abercrombie administration wants state lawmakers to create a new development authority for state harbors and parks that would partner with the private sector on recreational and leisure projects to bring new revenue for the state. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's efforts to strengthen its lobbying laws have consistently fallen victim to a resistant Legislature. Civil Beat.

Allowing a greater swath of the population to take advantage of solar energy and save money on their electricity bills is a top priority for Gov. Neil Abercrombie this legislative session. Civil Beat.

Union membership in Hawaii rose in 2012 even as the unionization rate declined nationally. Star-Advertiser.

Several key Hawaii lawmakers want to legalize marijuana in the Aloha State. Associated Press.

Bills that reform Hawaii’s marijuana laws are likely to gain traction in the state Legislature this year, bolstered by a change in House leadership and a new poll that reassures lawmakers of broad public support. Honolulu Weekly.

Four Hawaii senators want to charge 1 cent per teaspoon of sugar in each drink and use the revenue to fund community health centers and help trauma victims.  They say the tax would translate to about 10 cents per 12-ounce soda. KITV4.

Hawaii governors have a lot of appointment power. They include Cabinet members and deputy directors, judges and justices, members of board and commissions. Civil Beat.

Federal attorney Derrick Watson appeared Wednesday before the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee, which is considering whether to send his nomination as Hawaii's fourth full-time U.S. district judge to the Senate floor for a vote. Star-Advertiser.

As tourism fuels recovery in Hawaii, the state's tourism marketers are focusing on getting more visitors to sample neighbor islands, where hotels have more free rooms. Hawaii News Now.

University of Hawaii President MRC Greenwood Goes to Washington During Inauguration to Lobby for Presidential Center. Hawaii Reporter.

The largest supplier of flu vaccines in Hawaii has run out of some products. KHON2.

State briefs 1/24. Associated Press.

Oahu
Travelers passing through Honolulu Airport can expect to see construction start later this year on a $750 million effort to erect new terminals, larger gates, a new rental car building and other improvements at Hawaii's busiest ­— but aging — commercial airport. Star-Advertiser.

A developer's request to raise the height limit for a new $275 million hotel in Waikiki gets its first airing before the City Council Zoning and Planning Committee today. Star-Advertiser.

The city of Honolulu has paid an exterminator $17,372 to eradicate bedbug infestations at two city-owned affordable housing complexes. Civil Beat.

Schofield soldiers train for mission as 'key leaders' of Afghan troops. Star-Advertiser.

A fiber optic cable near one that broke during a fire last Tuesday was intentionally cut Wednesday night, affecting phone and cable services around the state for the second time in less than two weeks. Hawaii News Now.

Eddie Sherman, the longtime three-dot columnist who wrote about celebrities for the Honolulu Advertiser, Honolulu Star-Bulletin and MidWeek, died Tuesday at Straub Clinic & Hospital after a massive heart attack at home, said his wife, Patty Sherman. He was 88. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Newspaper Columnist Eddie Sherman Dies at 89. Hawaii Reporter.

A bus rider was caught off guard by an army of rats. He couldn't believe his eyes and had to pull out his cell phone to catch it all on video. KHON2.

Olive Garden tops a list of national retailers eyeing a Hawaii debut. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii
Hawaii County residents offered a unified front against actions the Legislature took last year regarding what areas of the state could be used for geothermal energy. West Hawaii Today.

Almost three months after Hawaii County evicted Abel Simeona Lui and a group of Native Hawaiians claiming indigenous rights to the 784-acre oceanfront parcel, the property, purchased with taxpayer money through the public lands and open space fund, remains in limbo as the county works with community groups on how best to proceed. West Hawaii Today.

A Big Island lawmaker believes it’s “high time” for Hawaii to legalize marijuana. Tribune-Herald.

February marks the start of the Year of the Snake on the Chinese calendar, and the traditional celebration of the Chinese New Year nearly slithered away from downtown Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

Three Projects Critical to the Big Island Economy. Big Island Now.

Wayne “Big Dog” Joseph, the Tribune-Herald’s running columnist who promoted health and fitness as his life’s motto, died Tuesday night. He was 65. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui Planning Commission members reviewed and recommended approval Tuesday of a bill to permit transient vacation rentals at the 230-unit Puamana oceanfront resort complex in Lahaina. Maui News.

During more than 40 years as an attorney, B. Martin Luna represented developers at state and county hearings for many resorts and other large projects in Maui County. Maui News.

The 2013 OpenTable Diners’ Choice Award winners for the Top 100 Most Romantic Restaurants in the US included three Maui restaurants. Maui Now.

Kauai

The proposed Waimea Sports complex would feature facilities for all ages when it opens. Garden Island.

Wednesday was a good day for the Kaua‘i County Council to push decisions to another day, as all four bills worked by different committees were deferred to February. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i County Department of Public Works is offering the public a bus tour of the proposed site for the new landfill and resource recovery park located about a mile north of Hanama‘ulu off Ma‘alo Road. Garden Island.

Molokai

A fisherman and conservationist is being honored for a lifetime of work protecting Molokai's northern coast. Associated Press.

Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie's State of the State: Raise the minimum wage to $8.75, pay down unfunded liabilities, pensions. That and more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie 2013 State of the State address

Gov. Neil Abercrombie on Tuesday condemned the "virus of absolutism" that he said infects politics, and appealed to state lawmakers to set strident voices aside and take action on early childhood education, renewable energy, economic diversification and the state's debt. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie's third State of the State address was, as many such addresses are in Hawaii, all about the five E's: energy, education, employees, the economy and the environment. Civil Beat.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie on Tuesday used his state-of-the-state speech to outline some of the economic initiatives he’s pushing this legislative session, among them a $1.50-per-hour increase to Hawaii’s minimum wage starting next year. Pacific Business News.

If Hawaii’s Governor Neil Abercrombie gets his way, the state would add about $1 billion in new and reclaimed programs and personnel in 2014 and 2015. Hawaii Reporter.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie today unveiled a plan to spend $100 million dollars next year to pay down future obligations to state workers and retirees. Hawaii News Now.

Unfunded liabilities took center stage this morning as Gov. Neil Abercrombie gave his third State of the State address. Big Island Now.

Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie says the state budget is his top priority for this coming year, in addition to energy and education. Associated Press.

The state’s Chief Executive delivered his annual State of the State address to a joint session of the legislature today.   As HPR’s Wayne Yoshioka reports … the Governor is proposing a long list of initiatives but provided little in terms of how to pay for them. Hawaii Public Radio.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie, during his State at the State address Tuesday, highlighted the state’s better financial position and many private and public initiatives, while criticizing the opposition to the Public Lands Development Corporation’s lack of aloha. Garden Island.

The verbatim text of the Governor’s 2013 State of the State Address. Hawaii Independent.

An increase in the minimum wage in Hawaii to $8.75 an hour from $7.25 would be the first since 2006 when it rose by 50 cents. In his State of the State address Tuesday, Gov. Neil Abercrombie said he will propose a bill to increase the wage starting in January 2014. Star-Advertiser.

One of the future plans Governor Abercrombie outlined in his State of the State address this morning is a proposal to increase minimum wage. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii's minimum wage has not gone up in more than six years. Gov. Abercrombie wants to change that. It was just one of the plans he outlined Tuesday morning in his State of the State address. KHON2.

Hawaii led the nation four decades ago when it became one of the first states to pass a lobbying law and create an Ethics Commission to administer it. But the law has been stuck in time. Efforts to substantially update it or strengthen it have failed year after year. Civil Beat.

A proposed bill that would make helmets mandatory for kids and limit liability in skateboard parks has quickly moved through the Legislature, passing first reading Friday and referred to three committees Tuesday. Garden Island.

U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard says her new post as a vice chairwoman of the Democratic National Committee will help raise Hawaii's profile on the national political landscape. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii auto sales rose last year by the highest margin on record as the industry recovered from the economic downturn that drove it to hit bottom in 2009. Star-Advertiser.

As an elected official, Rep. Karen Awana knows the rules. Why she's choosing not to play by them is another question. Civil Beat.

Oahu

There were 57 “move over” traffic citations issued against motorists during the first four months a new law was in effect — August through November, the Honolulu Police Department said Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

It’s been a year and a half since state regulators ordered Hawaiian Electric Co. to issue a request for proposals for major energy projects that would deliver power to Oahu. Civil Beat.

An oft-repeated message employers delivered to people looking for work Tuesday at a Job Quest fair at Blaisdell Center was to "improve your skill set." Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Gov. Neil Abercrombie has committed $3.5 million for an agricultural park in Waimea. West Hawaii Today.

Governor Neil Abercrombie announced in his State of the State speech that he wants to re-open the Kulani Correctional Facility on the Big Island by July 1, 2014. Residents had a chance to offer their opinions on Tuesday night at a public meeting in Hilo. Hawaii News Now.

Queries about establishing a pu`uhonua, or place of refuge, were among the topics discussed today during the first of two public meetings being held on the proposed reopening of the Kulani Correctional Facility. Big Island Now.

Maui

During calendar year 2012 the Mayor’s Office of Economic Development issued more than $5.1 million dollars in grant monies to various local organizations. Hawaii Reporter.

Mauians attending the second inauguration of President Barack Obama on Monday endured the chill of winter, to which they are unaccustomed, but were warmed by the words of the American president born in the islands. Maui News.

A time capsule dating back more than 50 years was discovered this morning in Wailuku. Maui Now.

Kauai

The Army is asking the public to comment on its plans to study marine life near Makua Valley where commanders want to resume live-fire training. Garden Island.

Hawaii bands entertain at Obama inauguration, Abercrombie's State of the State address at 10 a.m. today, Hawaii Island newspapers subpoenaed in political lawsuit, Honolulu newspaper owner buys Kauai daily, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

U.S. Sens. Schatz, Hirono at Obama inauguration, courtesy photo

Two Hawaii school bands — from Kamehameha and Punahou — marched in the presidential inaugural parade down Pennsylvania Avenue on Monday in a historic display that gave hundreds of thousands of attendees from around the world a little taste of the sights and sounds of President Barack Obama's birthplace. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie will deliver his State of the State address at the Capitol building at 10 a.m. on Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

HPR-1 will carry Governor Abercrombie's  complete State of the State address on Tuesday, January 22, 2013 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Hawaii Public Radio.

Keeping tabs on who is trying to influence public policy in Hawaii and how they are going about it is difficult in Hawaii. Unlike many other states, Hawaii requires very little information from those who lobby as well as those who get lobbied. Civil Beat.

State lawmakers have begun this year’s Legislature with a pile of bills targeting biotech industries that produce genetically modified organisms, with measures ranging from mandatory labeling to a total ban of such products in Hawai‘i. Garden Island.

Hawaii Lieutenant Governor Shan Tsutusi will head a delegation of more than 40 business executives to the Philippines. Maui Now.

Rep. Karen Awana

Outstanding fines didn’t prevent state Rep. Karen Awana from scoring a top leadership position in the House this session. The four-term lawmaker owes the Campaign Spending Commission $6,800 for failing to keep records and filing false reports dating back to 2008. Civil Beat.

Marijuana use on company time fell in Hawaii last year, but it is still the drug that turns up most often in workplace drug testing. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell says after meeting with the governor twice, he intends to resume work on the Waikiki Natatorium War Memorial's environmental impact statement. KITV4.

State wildlife officials are trying to preserve an area on Oahu critical to groundwater protection where four native plant species are making their last stand. Star-Advertiser.

It's taken five years to get to the point of breaking ground on what will be known as Halekauwila Place. It needed state land, a private developer and the Hawaii Housing Finance Corporation to finally launch an affordable housing project in Kakaako for singles and families. KITV4.

GUIDED by a long piece of string on the ground and a man with a bullhorn, hundreds of people — residents and visitors, young and old — stood shoulder to shoulder in Kapiolani Park on Monday in an attempt to form the world's largest human peace sign. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The lawyer for a county elections official who was fired and later reinstated has subpoenaed the Tribune-Herald, seeking the identities of six individuals who posted online comments regarding stories about the turmoil surrounding the 2012 elections. Tribune-Herald.

The cost of not paying property taxes on time could be getting lower. The Hawaii County Council’s Finance Committee will discuss a bill today that would cut the penalty for late payment in half, from 10 percent to 5 percent. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County is still mulling whether to expand its hybrid vehicle fleet after putting five new cars on the road last year. Tribune-Herald.

Kaiser Permanente employees and their families pitched in at three sites around Hawaii Island as part of the national day of volunteering Monday. West Hawaii Today.

Maui
Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa spent the weekend in Washington DC, as a participant in the US Conference of Mayors. Maui Now.

After the graduation Friday of 20 members of the Maui Police Department's first Crisis Intervention Team, officers said they're more equipped to respond to emergencies. Maui News.

Organizers of the inaugural Aloha Writers Conference - which is set to wrap up today in Kapalua - say they're cautious of the pitfalls suffered by the event's predecessor, and instead want to maintain a grass-roots conference that can help position Maui as "a literary jewel of the Pacific." Maui News.

Kauai

Oahu Publications Inc., publisher of the Honolulu Star-Advertiser, has acquired The Garden Island newspaper from Lee Enterprises, the companies announced Monday. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu Publications, Inc. and Kauai Publishing Co. announced today that OPI has purchased The Garden Island newspaper from Lee Enterprises, of Davenport, Iowa. The expected closing date is February 11, 2013. Garden Island.

Federal prosecutors have leveled more accusations against retired car dealer James Pflue­ger, who faces trial next month on conspiracy and tax evasion charges. Star-Advertiser.

A large crowd circulated through the Kukui Grove Center Monday during the Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration of Peace, sponsored by the Interfaith Roundtable of Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

Akaka honored, Arizona nonprofit seeks management of 8 Hawaii hospitals, poll finds voters favor Public Land Development Corp., stranded baby humpback dies, lawmaker wants HECO profits scrutinized, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Akaka receives Aloha Order of Merit from Gov. Abercrombie, courtesy photo

Hawaii honored longtime U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka on Monday by inducting him into the Aloha Order of Merit, an honor reserved for people who have given extraordinary service to the state. Associated Press.

Now that he is out of public office, former U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka is calling on the next generation of public officials from Hawaii to continue his work of spreading the aloha spirit at home, in the halls of Congress and throughout the country. Star-Advertiser.

State Lawmakers and dignitaries attended a special ceremony today to honor Senator Daniel K. Akaka. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii's congressional delegation has not yet met to lay out priorities for the coming year, but that meeting is expected to take place next week in Washington, D.C. Star-Advertiser.

Incumbents in the U.S. Senate and the Governor's Office say they will keep their focus on their jobs in the face of potential rivalry in the 2014 democratic primaries. KHON2.

A new Civil Beat Poll conducted last week found only 28 percent of voters want to abolish the relatively new Public Land Development Corporation, despite its battered image and continued protests. Civil Beat.

Rep. Cynthia Thielen is pushing for increased oversight of Hawaiian Electric Co.’s finances. The state rep. will be introducing legislation this session that would create a permanent task force to determine and periodically revise the electric utilities’ rate of return. Civil Beat.

Hilo Medical Center and seven other public health facilities on the Big Island, Maui and Lanai may fall under new management. Tribune-Herald.

Financial uncertainty in recent years is one of the motives behind Hawaii Health Systems Corp.’s recent discussions with an Arizona-based nonprofit health care system to take over management of eight public hospitals on the Big Island and Maui, said Avery Chumbley, HHSC’s board chairman. West Hawaii Today.
 
Oahu

In a scene that left some onlookers in tears, a baby humpback whale stuck in shallow water just off Kawai­­kui Beach Park near Aina Haina thrashed about for hours Monday in a futile attempt to escape the reef upon which it was stranded. Star-Advertiser.

A baby humpback whale that was stuck on a reef in shallow waters off east Oahu has died. Hawaii News Now.

A federal agency is expected to announce this week the findings and recommendations of its investigation into the 2011 explosion at a Wai­kele hillside storage facility that killed five workers dismantling illegal fireworks seized by the government. Star-Advertiser.

Redevelopment work at Aloha Tower Marketplace may begin as early as this summer after a state agency gave its consent Monday for Hawaii Pacific University to lead a $32 million makeover of the retail center fronting Honolulu Harbor despite objections by a real estate developer who put the project together. Star-Advertiser.

Workers represented by the International Longshore & Warehouse Union Local 142 have ratified their first contract with management at Pacific Beach Hotel, ending more than a decade of acrimonious legal battles that went nearly all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court. Star-Advertiser.

Replay Resorts, the private equity firm pushing for development of five additional hotels at Turtle Bay, is forming a new foundation. Hawaii Independent.

In the process of building the Kalaeloa Raceway Park, some community groups claim crews damaged an ancient altar and Makahiki site used for Hawaiian games and religious ceremonies. KITV4.

Hawaii

Money for civil defense sirens, Kona International Airport, major roads on both sides of the island, a juvenile justice center, pharmacy building at the University of Hawaii at Hilo, rural residency program for doctors and the county takeover of two state parks top the wish list Mayor Billy Kenoi will be presenting today to two legislative committees. West Hawaii Today.

Two years after the Hawaii County Council rebuffed Mayor Billy Kenoi’s attempt to ban county employees from securing county contracts for their private businesses, a company at the center of the controversy has again won a contract to clean roadside drywells and culverts. West Hawaii Today.

A 3rd Circuit Court judge will consider next month tossing the remaining defamation charges made by two Hawaii County election workers fired a year ago. Tribune-Herald.

The state Department of Transportation won’t be taking bids on improvements to the Kawaihae Road intersection with Queen Kaahumanu Highway for another two years. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Gov. Neil Abercrombie today officially received three names from the Hawaii Democratic Party to be considered for the vacant House District 9 seat left vacant by Gil Keith-Agaran, who is now a state senator. Maui News.

The Maui Police Department will launch a new Crisis Intervention Team Program this week, the first of its kind in the state, according to department officials. Maui Now.

Small nonfarm businesses in Kalawao and Maui counties are eligible to apply for low-interest federal disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration to offset economic losses caused by the drought that began this year. Maui News.

Having developed Maui-made Ocean Vodka into a successful brand over the last six years, the Smith family is now positioning the company for expansion with the addition of a new facility to streamline operations and allow the business to branch out in the luxury alcoholic beverage market. Maui News.

Kauai

The Cost Control Commission will not to pursue a proposal to raise the minimum age to qualify for an age-related real property tax exemption, they decided Monday, as it would not have meant savings for the administration in processing time and the revenues may not have been significant. Garden Island.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation has intensified its efforts this week to locate Peter Heckman, offering a $10,000 reward for information that leads to capture and arrest of the Kauai fugitive who allegedly is the mastermind of a $1.2 million investment scheme. Hawaii Reporter.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation has launched a new campaign and offered a new reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the arrest of Peter Heckman, a former Kaua‘i resident accused of operating a Ponzi scheme out of his recording studio. Garden Island.

Randy Francisco, the Kaua‘i Chamber of Commerce President and CEO, held a first-of-its-kind press conference yesterday, uniting business leaders with county officials to show that Kaua‘i is a safe place in light of the recent crimes that have depicted Kaua‘i negatively. Garden Island.

Lanai

The Hawaii Department of Transportation is looking for architectural and engineering firms to help update the master plan and noise program at Lanai Airport. Pacific Business News.

Molokai

A former employee has been ordered to share in repaying more than $3,500 stolen from the Molokai satellite office of the Maui County Division of Motor Vehicles & Licensing. Maui News.

Hawaii voters like Schatz, Maui Dems release names but not finalists for House seat, more bones found on Honolulu rail route, Oahu ballot shortage questions remain, state to get $150M from travel sites, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Brian Schatz with Gov. Neil Abercrombie file photo

Hawaii voters generally think Gov. Neil Abercrombie was right to pick his former lieutenant governor, Brian Schatz, to replace the late U.S. Sen. Daniel K. Inouye, according to a new Civil Beat Poll conducted last week. Civil Beat.

Hindus now have a fellow believer in Congress. Associated Press.

Steady revenue growth from Hawaii's tourism-driven economic recovery may tempt state lawmakers this session to satisfy some of the pent-up demand for state spending since the recession, but lawmakers do not have enough confidence in the economy for much of an expansion. Star-Advertiser.

Teachers who organized the so-called "work to the rule" protests that spread to schools statewide are planning a rally at the State Capitol this week for legislation that the teachers' union says it does not support. Hawaii News Now.

The investigation of widespread ballot shortages that plagued Oahu voters on Election Day is finished, but the thoroughness of the probe is now being brought into question. KITV4.

A judge has ordered some online travel sites to pay the state roughly $150 million for a decade’s worth of back taxes and interest. Associated Press.

The Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources is mounting a renewed push for long-term funding for the protection of the state’s critical watershed areas. Civil Beat.

A Civil Beat poll found 80 percent of respondents had both cell phones and landlines, 11 percent said cell phone only and 9 percent said landline only. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Electric Co.’s Robbie Alm said Thursday that Hawaii will meet, and probably even exceed, its preliminary mandate of achieving 15 percent clean energy by 2015. Pacific Business News.

Of 27 movies, Elvis Presley made 3 in the islands. Star-Advertiser.

Ben Jay, the new athletics director at the University of Hawaii, will spend his first official day on the job in Manoa on Monday. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu
Archaeologists for the city’s rail transit project unearthed another set of human remains Sunday as they worked on one of two remaining trenches in the proposed downtown corridor. Star-Advertiser.

A company that leases more than 35 acres from the state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands to operate a racing facility in Leeward Oahu has been hit with more than $100,000 in property-related violations, is several months behind on its rent and is under investigation by DHHL for allegedly clearing land outside the parcel's boundaries and possibly damaging historically significant sites, according to public records and information from city and state agencies. Star-Advertiser.

Former Honolulu Mayor Peter Carlisle announced he would be an international business adviser for the law firm O’Connor, Playdon & Guben. Civil Beat.

Nearly a dozen people woke up early Saturday morning to take a stand against animal cruelty, specifically cock fighting. KHON2.

Hawaii

Former veteran lawmaker from Hilo Jerry Chang has been named to replace Gerald De Mello, the longtime University of Hawaii at Hilo public relations chief. Big Island Now.

A Big Island landowner has racked up a sizable tab with the Hawaii County Planning Department. Tribune-Herald.

After nearly a year of inaction, some South Kona residents are frustrated by the county’s apparent inability to fix a broken solar heating system for its public swimming pool at Konawaena High School. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui Democratic Party releases names of seven qualified applicants for the state House seat vacated by Gil Keith-Agarn, but didn't reveal the three finalists sent to Gov. Neil Abercrombie. Maui News.

A dedication ceremony was held on Friday for the new $26 million science building at the University of Hawai’i Maui College campus in Kahului. Maui Now.

Members of the community last week objected to the proposed removal of concrete modules that were mistakenly dropped on coral within the Keawakapu artificial reef three years ago, citing cost issues and the possibility of creating more problems. Maui News.

Maui County has disclosed it paid $40,000 last year to settle a federal lawsuit filed by a Maui woman who was shot by a Taser gun by one of four police officers in 2006 at her Wailuku home. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai
On Sunday, less than two weeks after being sworn into office, U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (D-District 2) made her first visit to Kaua‘i since the election. Garden Island.

One month and one week after taking office on December 3, the new Kaua‘i Prosecuting Attorney Justin Kollar said the staff is coming together more quickly than he expected. Garden Island.

If all goes smooth, one of the best skate parks in the state will be ready by the end of the year in Hanapepe, thanks to a partnership between a hardcore group of community members, do-it-yourself skateboarders and local government. And that’s just the first of a series of planned skate facilities. Garden Island.

Molokai

Molokai’s Native Hawaiian Library is sponsoring an Open House and Event, Ua Mau Ke Ea: Sovereignty Endures on Thursday, Jan. 17 from 4 to 6 p.m. Molokai Dispatch.

Hawaii humpback whale count begins, congressional delegation gets plum posts, Maui Senate list trimmed to 3, uninsured motorist group seeks database, fee hikes, Oahu marsh takes shape, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Humpback whale breaches near Maui

Armed with binoculars and stationed at various sites overlooking the ocean, humpback whale aficionados will again spend three Saturdays searching for a burst of mist in the air, an arch, pectoral fin slapping, a spy hop or breach. West Hawaii Today.

The new members of Hawaii’s congressional delegation were assigned to some powerful committees Friday, the second day of the 113th U.S. Congress. including the Senate Armed Services Committee and the House Foreign Affairs Committee. Pacific Business News.

Late last week, Hawaii's freshmen senators and representative landed choice committee appointments overseeing issues crucial to the state — military, transportation, Native Hawaiian affairs, among others. Civil Beat.

Gary Hooser, the former director of the Office of Environmental Quality Control and a staunch environmental advocate repeatedly clashed with Gov. Neil Abercrombie and his environmental policies. Civil Beat.

There’s no indication it will help – and it’s likely to add to the cost of registering a motor vehicle in Hawaii — but a task force on uninsured motorists is nonetheless recommending the state create an online database to track who is carrying required insurance and who is not. West Hawaii Today.

Importing liquefied natural gas to Hawaii could provide residents with “huge” savings over oil, according to a recently released University of Hawaii study designed to help chart a path for importing the fuel. Civil Beat.

On Thursday, the US Department of Health and Human Services gave conditional approval to the Hawaii Health Connector to operate a state-based health insurance exchange in Hawaii in compliance with the Affordable Care Act (“Obamacare”). Maui Now.

Oahu

There were 57 traffic fatalities on Oahu in 2012, up about 10 percent from 2011. Star-Advertiser.

Former Gov. Ben Cayetano will keynote the Smart Business Hawaii annual investment conference on Wednesday, January 9, at the Ala Moana Hotel, where he will discuss what impact Sen. Daniel Inouye's death will have on Hawaii's economy and politics. Hawaii Reporter.

A restoration is under way of nearly 40 acres of wildlife habitat within the 830-acre Kawainui Marsh, the largest remaining wetland in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Inouye likely to be honored by state; county. KITV4.

As the celebration of the 40th anniversary of Elvis Presley's "Aloha from Hawaii" concert descends on Honolulu, local fans are getting into the spirit with memories sweetened through the ages, just like wine. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

On Saturday, various state and Hawaii Island dignitaries gathered in Waimea to celebrate the graduation of an inaugural class of 14 students from a program, Veterans to Farmers, which aims to teach veterans the business of agriculture. Tribune-Herald.

The number of traffic-related fatalities on Hawaii island jumped from 22 in 2011 to 38 last year — a spike of 72 percent. Star-Advertiser.

Neighbors say the gulch roadway where tourist Yogi Yoswara disappeared on the night of Dec. 19 is dangerous, and want something done about it. Tribune-Herald.

Planning and designing the new West Hawaii shelter and offices is taking longer than expected, a Hawaii Island Humane Society official said Friday. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

About 30 Maui Democrats met behind closed doors to hear pitches Saturday from seven applicants for the vacant Central Maui 5th Senate District seat. Maui News.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie has released $6 million for construction of the Kahului Airport access road, one of the larger amounts in $70.2 million the governor released for capital improvement projects statewide. Maui News.

A proposal for a $200 million West Maui Harbor will not go beyond the words and conceptual images in a glossy, 42-page booklet because the landowner, The Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Foundation, has no interest in pursuing the idea. Maui News.

Kauai

Faulty pump controls are being blamed for sending more than 200 gallons of sewage up through manholes onto Iona Road in Hanapepe Sunday. Garden Island.

The multi-use path at Wailua Beach is moving forward, regardless of an enduring resistance from some Native Hawaiians and community members, unbent on agreeing to concrete slabs covering any sliver of beach sand. Garden Island.

Molokai

The second annual Energy Festival, hosted by I Aloha Molokai (IAM) will be held next weekend and focuses on sensible, renewable energy solutions. On Jan. 11 and 12, 2013, at Mitchell Pauole Center, Kaunakakai, Molokai over 1000 people are expected to participate in panels and workshops, listen to local music, and eat ono food at the event. Molokai Dispatch.

Obama's back, Hawaii's top political influencers, new state laws taking effect for 2013, Abercrombie's choice of Schatz one of his 'finer moments,' more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Obama visits Hawaii Marines, Christmas Day 2012, White House courtesy photo

President Barack Obama is back in Hawaii for vacation after a tense, end-of-the-new-year standoff with Congress over the fiscal cliff. Associated Press.

President Barak Obama left Washington D.C. Tuesday night and is flying to Hawaii to rejoin his family on vacation. Associated Press.

President Obama landed at Pearl Harbor-Hickam just minutes ago. Hawaii News Now.

It was Abercrombie's call, not Inouye's, so he made it. Star-Advertiser.

There is growing talk of naming something after the late Dan Inouye to honor his contributions to Hawaii. Civil Beat.

Campaigns & Elections Magazine Names Hawaii's Top 10 Political Influencers of 2012. Hawaii Reporter.

Focus on service propelled Gabbard. Star-Advertiser.

The domino effect continues in state politics as the latest move in the wake of Senator Inouye's death appears likely to trigger another succession appointment. KHON2.

Rep. Gil Keith-Agaran, who is in line to become the House majority leader in the next Legislature, plans to seek the state Senate seat made vacant by the promotion of former Senate President Shan Tsutsui to lieutenant governor. Star-Advertiser.

Social services brace for federal cuts. Hawaii News Now.

A handful of new laws will take effect with the new year in Hawaii, affecting a range of things including public records, abandoned vessels and athletic trainers. All or portions of 16 bills will take effect Tuesday. Associated Press.

The Department of Land and Natural Resources has confirmed that boat debris found at Kahana Bay a week after Thanksgiving came from the 2011 Japan tsunami. Star-Advertiser.

Japan Tsunami Debris Threatens Hawaii But Cleanup Money Is Lacking. Civil Beat.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie has ordered that flags be flown at half-staff in remembrance of former Hawaii Board of Education member, the Rev. Canon Darrow Kanakanui Aiona. Associated Press.

Parts of plane found in Midway's lagoon. A prop, motor and landing gear discovered by divers belonged to a World War II fighter. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Hawaii News Now will Live Stream the historic joint inauguration of Mayor-elect Kirk Caldwell and newly elected Honolulu City Councilmembers starting at 10 a.m. Wednesday, January 2. Hawaii News Now.

On Oahu's second New Year's holiday under a fireworks ordinance that bans all but firecrackers, there were six minor fireworks-related blazes and five people taken to hospitals for fireworks-related injuries. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Hawaii County did not solicit bids when it leased a vacant building in Pahoa to three community groups for $1 a year, even as it paid $22,000 a year for a County Council district office in a local shopping center. West Hawaii Today.

Swimmers who frequent the Pahoa Aquatic Center will have to get their fix elsewhere during the next six months. Tribune-Herald.

A Phoenix- and Sacramento-based real estate investment firm affiliated with the Walton family is in the process of buying Hokulia. West Hawaii Today.

A group of investors is hoping to piggy back on a special permit application filed 44 years ago for a resort that never came to be. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

In 2012, Maui County lost current and former island residents, including Hawaiian cultural leaders and musicians, a popular journalist along with a famous restaurateur and community heroes. Maui News.

Kauai

Embattled retired auto dealer James Pflueger, who faces federal tax fraud and state manslaughter trials this year, was dealt a legal setback when the state appeals court recently upheld a $4 million penalty against him after runoff from his property damaged a beach and a pristine coral reef on Kauai's north shore. Star-Advertiser.

Young Brothers and Hawaiian Tug and Barge presented $25,000 in grants to 18 Kaua‘i nonprofits recently at its Nawiliwili Port. Garden Island.

Maui Sen. Tsutsui named lt. governor, Schatz sworn in to U.S. Senate, federal court gives Honolulu rail green light, tourism spending up, Native Hawaiian incarceration a problem, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Lt. Gov. Shan Tsutsui and family, Governor's Office courtesy photo

Swayed by the prospect of being a partner with Gov. Neil Abercrombie and the governor's professed commitment to creating an administration that is not "Oahu-centric," veteran state lawmaker Shan Tsu­tsui abdicated his post as Senate president Thursday and accepted the job of lieutenant governor. Star-Advertiser.

Within just 24 hours, Neil Abercrombie sent Brian Schatz to the U.S. Senate and Shan Tsutsui to the fifth floor of the state Capitol. Civil Beat.

It's official: Senate President Shan Tsutsui is Hawaii's 12th Lieutenant Governor effective immediately. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii Senate President Shan S. Tsutsui was named lieutenant governor Thursday after Brian Schatz vacated the office to accept his appointment to the U.S. senate, filling the seat that was occupied until recently by the late Daniel Inouye. Pacific Business News.

State Sen. Shan Tsutsui, who has served as State Senate president since 2010, was appointed as the Lieutenant Governor of the State of Hawaii by Governor Neil Abercrombie on Thursday. Hawaii News Now.

Filling the lieutenant governor position now continues the domino effect. KHON2.

Shan Tsutsui officially accepted the position of lieutenant governor Thursday. This means his former role as Senate president, as well as his Senate seat, need to be filled. Senate vice president Donna Mercado Kim says she will fulfill Tsutsui's duties as Senate president . Senate members will vote on a new president on the opening day of the session. KITV4.

Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie faced a backlash Thursday for choosing his lieutenant governor to succeed Daniel Inouye in the U.S. Senate, revealing discord between Democrats in a state where the party has dominated for decades with Inouye at the helm. Associated Press.

Sen. Brian Schatz sworn in to United States Senate. Hawaii News Now.

U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz faces a test of fire in his first days in Washington, where he was sworn into office Thursday, having arrived on Air Force One less than 24 hours after being appointed to a seat left vacant by the death of Daniel K. Inouye, Hawaii's most powerful politician. Star-Advertiser.

Brian Schatz symbolized a generational change in Hawaii’s Senate delegation, taking the hand of his new colleague, 88-year-old Sen. Daniel Akaka, moments before being sworn in Thursday as the successor to the late Democratic Sen. Daniel Inouye. Associated Press.

It’s not often in politics that someone has the meteoric rise Brian Schatz had this month. Schatz has gone from lieutenant governor of a state with a little over a million people in the middle of the Pacific, to hitching a ride on Air Force One and becoming the sudden replacement to an iconic U.S. senator. Civil Beat.

Maui state Sen. Shan Tsutsui is the new lieutenant governor of Hawaii. Maui News.

A task force that spent a year studying ways to reduce the number of Native Hawaiians in prison and involved in other parts of the criminal justice system has issued its report. Associated Press.

Requiring law enforcement, court and corrections employees to receive training in "unconscious bias" and reinforcing Gov. Neil Abercrombie's call to return all Hawaii prisoners from privately run facilities on the mainland are among 38 recommendations to address the disproportionately high number of Native Hawaiians who are incarcerated. Star-Advertiser.

Task Force Demands Action On Hawaiian Incarceration. Civil Beat.

Hawaii visitors spent $1.1 billion in November, which is $208 million more than last November, while the number of arrivals was up 14.5 percent to 651,158, the Hawaii Tourism Authority said Thursday. Pacific Business News.

Visitor spending hits annual record a month early. A growing number and variety of tourists shelled out $12.9B through November. Star-Advertiser.

State roundup for December 28. Associated Press.

Oahu

A federal judge's ruling Thursday that halts construction only in the final phase of the city's 20-mile rail project was hailed by city and rail officials who say the $5.26 billion project likely will be able to proceed without further delays. Star-Advertiser.

Court Ruling Keeps City Rail Project On Track, Honolulu Mayor Says. Civil Beat.

U.S. District Judge A. Wallace Tashima has given the City and County of Honolulu and the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation everything short of a total victory in the federal lawsuit brought by former Gov. Ben Cayetano and others in an effort to stop Oahu’s $5.16 billion elevated-rail mass-transit project. Pacific Business News.

An injunction granted by the United States District Court in Hawaii on Thursday will temporarily restrain any construction activities on phase four of the city's rail transit project, but engineering, design planning and other pre-construction activities will be allowed to continue. Hawaii News Now.

Swell expected to bring waves exceeding 25 feet. The high surf should arrive Saturday and last through Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Edwin Noh, the founder and CEO of NOH Foods of Hawaii, has died at the age of 88, according to his family. KITV4.

Hawaii

The Big Island said aloha to late Sen. Daniel Inouye on Thursday. Tribune-Herald.

A review of testimony submitted last month to the state Public Utilities Commission reveals overwhelming opposition to proposals by Hawaii Electric Light Co. to increase its electricity rates next year. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii Department of Agriculture announced Thursday it is working to produce large numbers of a moth it plans to use to fight off the fireweed, an invasive plant that is toxic to livestock and has caused havoc on the state’s prime pasture lands. Tribune-Herald.

While many of us spend the holidays with family and friends, for Hawaii Island’s first responders, it’s just another few days on the job. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The new Maui County Council will be inaugurated at 10 a.m. Wednesday in the Council Chambers. Maui News.

The $140 million, 21 megawatt Auwahi Wind project on Ulupalakua Ranch went online Thursday, Sempra U.S. Gas & Power and BP Wind Energy announced. Maui News.

Kauai

Members of the Kaua‘i branch of the Boys & Girls Club Hawai‘i were recently treated to Christmas at Kukui Grove Center through the courtesy of The Parrish Collection Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

Molokai

The girls at Molokai Middle School are breaking all preconceived notions that boys are better at math and science. Molokai Dispatch.

Lt. Gov. Brian Schatz heads to U.S. Senate as Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie bucks the late Sen. Daniel Inouye's faction of the state Democratic Party

Lt. Gov Brian Schatz named to U.S. Senate, screen capture of Gov. Abercrombie announcement

Lt. Gov. Brian Schatz, who is expected to be sworn in today as the late U.S. Sen. Daniel K. Inouye's successor, said Wednesday that he understands the magnitude of the appointment and promised the islands: "I won't let you down." Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Lt. Gov. Brian Schatz on Wednesday was appointed the state’s next U.S. senator, bucking the dying wishes of U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye to win the support of Gov. Neil Abercrombie. Associated Press.

Who Is Brian Schatz? Meet Hawaii's New U.S. Senator. Civil Beat.

Ten days after the death of Dan Inouye, Hawaii has a new U.S. senator. And it's not Colleen Hanabusa. Civil Beat.

The decision drew an immediate backlash on Twitter and Facebook, but Gov. Neil Abercrombie did not back down when asked why he failed to honor Sen. Dan Inouye's final wish. KITV4.

Just hours after receiving a list of three candidates from Hawaii's Democratic Party to replace U.S. Senator Daniel Inouye, Gov. Neil Abercrombie announced the appointment of his Lt. Gov. Brian Schatz to the position. Hawaii Reporter.

Lt. Gov. Brian Schatz has been appointed to fill the vacant U.S. Senate seat held by Daniel Inouye for the past 50 years. Pacific Business News.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie chose his Lt. Gov., Brian Schatz, Wednesday to replace the late U.S. Sen. Dan Inouye, rebuffing Inouye's request to appoint U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa to the post. Hawaii News Now.

Gov. Neil Abercombie has appointed Brian Schatz to succeed the late Daniel Inouye as U.S. Senator. KHON2.

Governor Abercrombie has selected Lt. Gov. Brian Schatz to succeed the late Senator Inouye. Hawaii Independent.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie picked Lt. Gov. Brian Schatz to fill the U.S. Senate vacancy left by the recent and sudden death of Sen. Daniel Inouye, D-Hawai‘i. The governor’s choice denies Inouye’s deathbed wish for Rep. Colleen Hanabusa, D-Hawai‘i to succeed him in the Senate. Garden Island.

Lt. Gov. Brian Schatz has been named to replace the late-Sen. Daniel Inouye in the U.S. Senate. Maui News.

Governor Abercrombie Appoints Brian Schatz to fill Senate Vacancy. Hawaii Public Radio.

The late U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye's office says it's disappointed Gov. Neil Abercrombie chose not to honor the Hawaii Democrat's last wish that U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa replace him in the chamber. Hawaii News Now.

A series of statements were released in the moments following the appointment of Lt. Gov. Brian Schatz to fill the vacancy of the late US Senator Daniel Inouye. Most of the remarks were congratulatory in nature, but at least one, coming from the Hawaii Republican Party, was critical of the governor’s choice. Maui Now.

President Barack Obama returned to Washington on Wednesday night after spending his last day of vacation at the golf course and the beach. Star-Advertiser.

President Barack Obama left Hawaii Wednesday night, cutting short his traditional holiday vacation. Hawaii News Now.

Not only is the State Energy Office looking to grab a bigger piece of the so-called barrel tax. The state Department of Agriculture is hoping state legislators will nearly triple its share of the barrel tax from 15 cents to 42.5 cents of the $1.05 total for every barrel of petroleum that is imported to Hawaii. Pacific Business News.

The Hawaii State Department of Health Adult Mental Health Division is conducting a series of community focus group meetings to solicit input from communities and stakeholders statewide about AMHD services for adults with severe and persistent mental illness. Hawaii Reporter.

An anonymous donor has committed to a $9.2 million gift to the University of Hawaii to fund scholarships and support programs and projects in the sciences and culinary arts, the UH Foundation announced Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Big, potentially dangerous waves are hitting the north shores of several islands, including Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Laurel Stricklin knows firsthand what it takes to be compassionate to complete strangers. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Hawaii County residents can expect improvements in roads, parks and garbage management, modernization of civil defense sirens and a commitment to agriculture, according to 2013 priorities cited by Mayor Billy Kenoi and Council Chairman J Yoshimoto. West Hawaii Today.

Starting Wednesday, Kealakekua Bay is closed for business to kayaks, standup paddlers and boogie boarders. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park plans to challenge an application for a helicopter landing pad in the former Royal Gardens subdivision, according to the Hawaii County Planning Department. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park expects to begin using two hybrid battery/hydrogen-fueled visitor shuttles this spring. Tribune-Herald.

The public is invited to a memorial service today in Hilo for the late U.S. Senator Daniel K. Inouye. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa will hire both the exiting Council Chair Danny Mateo of Molokai, and the exiting Vice Chair Joe Pontanilla of Kahului. Maui News.

Maui County's call for a developer to build and operate a waste-to-energy plant has attracted some of the nation's top names in waste-conversion technologies. Maui News.

A service for the late Sen. Daniel Inouye will be held Saturday at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center's Castle Theater, it was announced Monday as another prominent elected leader applied to be considered to fill the seat. Maui News.

Kauai

In an effort to make Makaweli Poi Mill more self-sufficient and increase projects supporting the Hawaiian language on Kaua‘i, the Office of Hawaiian Affairs announced Wednesday it is transferring the poi mill to a local nonprofit group. Garden Island.

Rep. Derek Kawakami’s schedule precluded him from joining everyone else Wednesday at the M. Kawamura Farm Enterprises shop in Pua Loke. Garden Island.