Abercrombie builds campaign coffers, state IT behind the times, more than 1,000 attend Kauai GMO hearing, Honolulu Police to try license-plate scanners, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. Neil Abercrombie reelection campaign courtesy photo

Gov. Neil Abercrombie brought in more than $859,450 over the past six months for his re-election campaign, swelling his total to $3.3 million overall. The Democrat had $2.1 million in cash on hand at the end of June, according to his latest campaign-finance report. Star-Advertiser.

Neil Abercrombie’s re-election campaign raised $860,000 in the first six months of 2013, according to a statement from his gubernatorial campaign Wednesday afternoon. Civil Beat.

Why has Hawaii's state government relegated itself to a 20th-century business model, clinging inefficiently to paper as other states dive into digital? Sonny Bhagowalia, who has been Hawaii’s IT czar for two years, has laid out a comprehensive plan to propel the state into the 21st Century. But he said it won’t come to fruition without funding — or at least not as fast as it should. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Invasive Species Council is allocating more than $2.5 million for dozens of projects during the current fiscal year, including efforts to eradicate axis deer on the Big Island and detect mongoose on Kauai. Associated Press.

Oahu

After one unsuccessful attempt Honolulu Police plan to try again to use cameras capable of reading multiple license plates a second. Police Department's in other cities across the country say the technology has helped recover stolen cars and catch wanted criminals. But opponents say it also catches too much information. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell and other officials joined Hawaiian civic club members in celebrating the 170th anniversary of Hawaiian Flag Day, the day the Hawaiian monarchy was restored, and the founding of Thomas Square at the Honolulu park on Wednesday — with a backdrop of supporters of Hawaiian sovereignty and (de)Occupy Honolulu protesting behind them. Star-Advertiser.

It’s a problem some Oahu residents say happens too often. Garbage is overflowing, trash pickup routes are missed, and the city is paying out tens of thousands of dollars to make up for the trash trouble. KHON2.

The appointed Grants In Aid Advisory Commission this week submitted to the City Council a list recommending that 41 Oahu nonprofit agencies divvy up $5.1 million in grants. Star-Advertiser.

The National Football League and the NFL’s Players Association is giving the annual Pro Bowl all-star game, which is being held on Jan. 26 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, an overhaul. Pacific Business News.

A friend of State Department special agent Christopher Deedy testified Wednesday she saw the agent pull out his wallet before the 2011 fatal shooting in Waikiki and show Kollin Elderts what the defense asserts was Deedy’s law enforcement identification and badge. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The Environmental Management Department is getting lots of pitches for waste-to-energy technologies, Director Bobby Jean Leithead Todd told Environmental Management Commissioners Wednesday morning. The problem is, she added, most of those technologies aren’t a good fit for Hawaii County. Stephens Media.

Hawaii County Council members got off to a slow start raising money for their next campaigns, with only one councilor, Hilo Councilman Dennis Onishi, reporting any contributions at all, according to disclosures filed with the state Campaign Spending Commission by Wednesday’s deadline. Stephens Media.

The Pacific Islands Parks Act was given an important hearing at a key Senate committee today. The legislation, which was introduced by Hawaii Senator Brian Schatz, would direct the National Park Service to complete studies of three designated sites in the state of Hawai‘i. That includes a special resource study along the Ka‘u Coast on Hawaii Island, as well as the northern coast of Maui, and the southeastern coast of Kauai. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Updates to the Maui County Code relating to subdivisions, including one that could help the county regulate speeding on Eha Street, were signed into law by Mayor Alan Arakawa on Tuesday. Maui News.

Maui police issued a total of 634 tickets, 530 of them for speeding during the Operation SPEED traffic enforcement campaign last week. Maui Now.

Habitat for Humanity Maui announced the start of construction on a 16 unit condominium project on Kahawai Street in Happy Valley. Maui Now.

Kauai

More than 1,000 people came to Kauai Veterans Center Wednesday to attend a public hearing on a proposal that has put Kauai on the spotlight across the state and has sharply divided island residents. Garden Island.

Supporters and opponents of a controversial bill to regulate pesticides and genetically engineered crops crowded the Kauai Veterans Center Wednesday to testify before a County Council committee. More than 1,000 people attended the hearing Wednesday on Bill 2491. Star-Advertiser.

Although relatively peaceful — other than the occasional snicker, laugh or boo from the audience — testimony during Wednesday’s public hearing on County Bill 2491 was full of emotion from both sides. Garden Island.

The public is invited to provide input on the proposed update of the Kauai County Area Plan for Oct. 2011 to Sept. 2015, which serves as a blueprint for senior programs and services. Included in the update are proposed changes to the Agency on Elderly Affairs’ services and several of its programs including: Better Choices, Better Health; EnhanceFitness; and the Kauai RSVP (Retired Seniors Volunteer Program). Garden Island.

Lanai

If someone were to play Larry Ellison in a movie, the Oracle Corp. CEO thinks it should be Robert Downey Jr. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii braces for Tropical Storm Flossie: Abercrombie issues emergency proclamation, courthouses, government buildings closed, bus service canceled on Hawaii Island, more storm news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Tropical Storm Flossie at 2 a.m. Monday

Gov. Neil Abercrombie signed an emergency proclamation Sunday in preparation for Tropical Storm Flossie, which is expected to spread rain, wind, flooding and high surf throughout the state over the next two days. Star-Advertiser.

Residents and tourists across Hawaii were bracing for Tropical Storm Flossie, which forecasters said was weakening as it approached the state but still could bring heavy rains, strong winds and possibly even tornadoes. National Weather Service officials said they expect people on the Big Island and Maui to see the brunt of the storm Monday morning, with wind gusts up to 60 mph, possible flooding and waves up to 18 feet high. Associated Press.

Tropical Storm Flossie has weakened since the last update.  As of 5 a.m. on Monday, maximum sustained winds were measured at 45 miles per hour, according to the Central Pacific Hurricane Center (CPHC) in Honolulu. Hawaii News Now.

Tropical Storm Warning remains in effect for Maui, Oʻahu, and Hawaiʻi Counties.  At 5 a.m., Kauaʻi and Niʻihau were added to the Warning area. Maui Now.

Hawaii iIsland and Maui are in the cross hairs this morning as the isles face the first direct hit from a tropical storm in more than 20 years. Star-Advertiser.

Forecasters at the Central Pacific Hurricane Center issued a tropical storm warning for Oahu Sunday and a tropical storm watch for Kauai as Tropical Storm Flossie closes in on Hawaii. Big Island and Maui County remain under a tropical storm warning. A statewide flash flood watch is also set to begin at 6 a.m. Monday. Civil Beat.

The U.S. Coast Guard closed ports on the Big Island and Maui and Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie signed an emergency proclamation Sunday as Tropical Storm Flossie continued on a path that forecast to take it through the Islands on Monday. Pacific Business News.

Here is the text of the Federal Emergency Management Agency's statement for Hawaii on Tropical Storm Flossie. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

The city Department of Emergency Management is advising Oahu residents that the just-issued tropical storm warning for the island means it is the time to get prepared for Flossie's expected arrival this afternoon. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

As rain began to fall in Hilo, Hawaii island Mayor Billy Kenoi and acting Civil Defense administrator Darryl Oliveira urged residents to stay vigilant as Tropical Storm Flossie began to weaken as it neared the Big Island. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii island Mayor Billy Kenoi announced all non-essential county workers are to stay home today as Tropical Storm Flossie sets its sights directly on the island. Kenoi made the decision Sunday afternoon after consulting with acting Civil Defense Administrator Darryl Oliveira at the Hilo Emergency Operations Center. Star-Advertiser.

Tropical Storm Flossie's impending arrival on Hawaii island this morning has forced the closure of the county bus system and state courthouses on the island. Mayor Billy Kenoi decided to shut down the county's Hele-On bus system as of midnight Sunday as a safety precaution. Star-Advertiser.


Tropical Storm Flossie was expected to make landfall along the Hamakua Coast around 6 a.m. today, bringing with it high winds, heavy surf, and torrential rains. Stephens Media.

About 85 families who were part of a Department of Hawaiian Home Lands-sponsored camping event at South Hilo’s Keaukaha Beach Park — many of whom have been there since the first week of June —  were told to vacate Sunday afternoon. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

The County of Maui activated its Emergency Operations Center at 7 a.m. on Sunday, July 28, 2013, in anticipation of Tropical Storm Flossie, which is due to reach the Hawaiian Islands on Monday morning. Maui News.

Kauai

State officials are urging residents across the state to be on alert and take immediate storm precautions as Tropical Storm Flossie takes a direct aim at Maui and the Big Island. Garden Island.

Hawaii reapportionment upheld, federal judges oppose Honolulu rail route, race becomes issue in Deedy trial, Schatz and Hanabusa raise campaign cash, roving state reps get free trips, police raise to cost millions, Kauai missile range greets new commander, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

The Hawaii Reapportionment Commission’s justification in redrawing legislative districts so Hawaii Island received a fourth Senate seat embodied “rational, legitimate and substantial state policies,” a federal court panel said Thursday in dismissing a lawsuit challenging the new maps’ constitutionality. West Hawaii Today.

A federal three-judge panel has ruled in favor of the reapportionment plan Hawaii used during the most recent general election. Associated Press.

The 2012 reapportionment and redistricting plan does not violate the Equal Protection Clause of the U.S. Constitution, a three-judge panel of the U.S. District Court said in upholding its previous decision to deny an injunction sought by a group of voters that challenged the plan. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii does not have to count some 108,000 “nonpermanent residents" — mostly students and military — when drawing the boundaries of state districts, according to a federal court order issued today. Civil Beat.

A typhoon is barreling toward Taiwan where a group of Hawaii residents are visiting this week. Governor Neil Abercrombie was on that tour, but cut his trip short and raced home a day earlier to miss the storm. KHON2.

U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa opened her Democratic primary campaign against U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz with $500,000 in fundraising, her campaign announced Thursday, well below the mark set by Schatz. Star-Advertiser.

Gift disclosure statements filed last month by two state lawmakers revealed an unexpected and intriguing donor from half a world away: The Republic of Azerbaijan. The thriving oil-fueled nation just north of Iran flew Reps. Rida Cabanilla and Mark Takai halfway across the world for the U.S.-Azerbaijan Convention in May. Civil Beat.

State employees and legislators receiving free golf perks from companies that do business with the state have caught the attention of the Hawaii Ethics Commission. Associated Press.

CNBC has released its report America's Top States for Doing Business 2013. No surprise to business owners in Hawaii that the 50th state came in dead last in the annual ranking and is considered the worst place to do business in the country. Hawaii Reporter.

Occupancy dipped a little at Hawaii hotels in May, which hoteliers say will probably be their worst-performing month of the year. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii hotels experienced double-digit increases in occupancy during the week of July 4 when compared to the same week last year, while occupancy changes were mixed across the four major islands, according to the latest report from Hospitality Advisors LLC and Smith Travel Research. Pacific Business News.

Hiroshima Still Echoes in Hawaii Nearly 70 Years After Atomic Bomb Blast. Civil Beat.

State roundup for July 12. Associated Press.

Oahu

The federal District Court in Hawaii took renewed aim this week at the planned route for the city's rail line, saying it fails to meet the $5.26 billion project's stated purpose by ending at Ala Moana Center — a shopping mall — instead of the University of Hawaii's Manoa campus. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Chief U.S. District Judge Susan Oki Mollway has blasted the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation’s decision to run the proposed rail transit route to Ala Moana Center and urged the agency to reconsider an alternate route that would include a tunnel under Beretania Street. Pacific Business News.

All 11 of Hawaii’s federal judges have submitted a letter to The Federal Transit Administration and the city’s Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation that opponents of the city’s elevated steel rail project are calling a “bombshell” and “unprecedented.” Hawaii Reporter.

In a time of tight budgets, a new Hawaii police union contract will cost the City and County of Honolulu an additional $200 million over the next four years, according to a memo Mayor Kirk Caldwell sent to the city council earlier this week. Civil Beat.

An unanticipated expense in the arbitrated four-year contract awarded the police officers union will cost Oahu taxpayers about 36 percent more than city officials had originally anticipated. Star-Advertiser.

Prosecution raises race as issue in Deedy trial. Hawaii News Now.

Racial overtones surfaced during State Department special agent Christopher Deedy's murder trial Thursday with testimony from a McDonald's restaurant customer who supposedly was racially harassed and a fellow agent who testified that he told Deedy some "locals" don't like mainlanders. Star-Advertiser.

Audit of UH Culinary Arts programs uncovers lax accounting, oversight of food inventory. KITV4.

Hawaii

The USDA will spend $1 million to combat coffee berry borer on Hawaii Island, officials said Thursday morning. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii island coffee farmers are getting a $1 million boost from the federal government to help in their fight against the coffee berry borer, an invasive species that is "devastating" their operations. Star-Advertiser.

A spokesman for Mayor Billy Kenoi said the county will “have to find the money within the current year’s budget” to fund raises for police officers. Tribune-Herald.

The state Department of Human Services has suspended the operating license of a Kailua-Kona day care center for the second time this year, the state announced Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

There's been lots of discussion throughout the state about the need to have more farmers and to have more of our food grown right here at home. On Hawaii Island, there's a program to develop new farmers--and they're looking for candidates. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hilo nurse honored for efforts to curb infections. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Many of Maui's nonprofit social and human service agencies are facing uncertainty as they move into the fifth month of the federal budget cutbacks--known as "sequestration"--that went into affect on March 1. Maui Weekly.

Both Hawaiian Commercial and Sugar Company on Maui, and Monsanto Company on Molokaʻi were cited by the Hawaiʻi Department of Health Clean Air Branch after the agency received dust complaints, officials said. Maui Now.

Mayor Alan Arakawa recently visited Hangzhou, China, capital of eastern China's Zhejiang Province, where he attended the Second Annual World Cultural Forum from May 17 to 19. Maui Weekly.

After a morning of presiding over court cases, 2nd Circuit Judge Richard Bissen walked across the street from the courthouse to his doctor's office for his regular checkup. Just hours later, after undergoing an electrocardiogram at the doctor's office and being sent to Maui Memorial Medical Center for more testing to examine his heart activity, Bissen was taken to the operating room for emergency heart surgery. Maui News.

Kauai

In grand style, the Pacific Missile Range Facility welcomed its new commander — and bid farewell to his predecessor — Thursday inside the facility’s base operations hangar. Garden Island.

The three defendants named in the civil rights lawsuit filed by Kauai County Councilman Tim Bynum have filed motions to dismiss the case this week, according to county officials. Garden Island.

Attorneys Kyle Smith and Gerard Jervis, who represent the Kauai’s Westside community in an ongoing lawsuit against Pioneer Hi-Bred International, have compiled a list of chemicals used by the company. They will disclose the information during a public meeting beginning at 2 p.m. Saturday at Waimea Canyon Middle School. Garden Island.

A few hours after being posted online Wednesday afternoon, the “Save Coco Palms” petition was pulled without explanation. Garden Island.

Molokai

A year after a fire destroyed Hotel Molokai’s kitchen , Hula Shores restaurant and bar is one step closer to repairing and reopening its dining facilities. Hotel Molokai was approved for repairs at the June 26 Molokai Planning Commission meeting, securing their ability to begin construction soon. Molokai Dispatch.

Kahoolawe

Funds for the cleanup and restoration of Kahoolawe are expected to run out in 2016, yet only 13 percent of the job has been done, according to a report issued Thursday by the state legislative auditor. Star-Advertiser.

Ige to challenge Abercrombie for Hawaii governor, Abercrombie vetoes 3 bills, Schatz collects $911k, Deedy trial continues, Maui disabled transportation in turmoil, Kauai Coco Palms Resort rebuild hampered, tourist safety promoted, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

David Ige, courtesy Hawaii Senate Majority

Hawaii’s Senate Ways and Means Committee chairman is running for governor in the 2014 election. Sen. David Ige is the first to step forward to challenge Gov. Neil Abercrombie in the Democratic primary. Associated Press.

State Sen. David Ige, a soft-spoken, deliberative engineer, has quietly navigated politics at the state Capitol for nearly three decades. His faction in the Senate is known as the Chess Club — policy wonks and liberal idealists who have stuck together while other factions frayed. So Ige's announcement Tuesday that he would challenge Gov. Neil Abercrombie in the Demo­cratic primary next year is an unusually risky move for a lawmaker respected for his judgment. Star-Advertiser.

Voters in Hawaii now have a choice about whether they want to keep their governor or replace him. That is because Neil Abercrombie has an official challenger: David Ige. Surprising colleagues and political analysts, state Sen. Ige announced Tuesday that he is stepping forward to face the governor in his bid for re-election next year. Civil Beat.

Governor Neil Abercrombie has to contend with a new challenger. Fellow Democrat and State Senator David Ige announced he will run for governor in 2014. David Ige is well known at the state Capitol but he'll have to work on introducing himself to people around the state. Hawaii News Now.

Sen. David Ige announced Tuesday morning that he will throw his hat into the race for governor and is, so far, the only challenger to incumbent Neil Abercrombie. KITV4.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie will have to fight to keep his seat in the next year’s election. Sen. David Ige, a Democrat and 30-year veteran of the legislature, wants the job and says the people of Hawaii want change. KHON2.

Oahu Sen. David Ige this morning announced that he will be a candidate for governor in next year’s election. Ige, a Democrat, has represented the Pearl City-Aiea area in the state Legislature for the past 28 years, including 19 years in the Senate. Maui Now.

Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie on Tuesday told lawmakers he would veto three bills but he signed another bill that outlaws the excessive feeding of feral birds as a public health nuisance. Associated Press.

Measures to stimulate economic investment and high-paying jobs, discourage feeding feral birds and give judges discretion in setting prison terms in some felony drug cases were among the bills signed into law by the Abercrombie administration this year as the governor's deadline to veto legislation passed Tuesday with only three measures rejected. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Lt. Gov. Shan Tsutsui signed seven bills into law on Tuesday while Gov. NeilAbercrombie was visiting Taiwan. Among them was House Bill 858, which appropriates $6 million for the Hawaii Strategic Development Corp. to implement the HI Growth Initiative. Pacific Business News.

After reviewing more than 290 bills passed by the 2013 Hawaii State Legislature, Gov. Neil Abercrombie today notified legislators of his decision to limit his vetoes to three. Hawaii Reporter.

U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz raised $911,000 in the past quarter for his Democratic primary for Senate against U.S. Rep. Colleen Hana­busa, his campaign said Tuesday, bringing his total to more than $2 million. Star-Advertiser.

Every year at this time, public officials from the governor on down are required to report gifts valued at more than $200 received over the past year. These disclosures can be revealing, sometimes funny, sometimes boring, and occasionally suspect. Civil Beat.

Hawaii energy officials are raising questions about a recent analysis by Hawaiian Electric Co. that says Oahu can meet state renewable energy goals without using undersea cables to tap neighbor island resources. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority and the Visitor Aloha Society of Hawaii have created an online safety brochure for Hawaii’s visitors, residents and industry partners, the HTA said Tuesday. Pacific Business News.

When the University of Hawaii signed a contract with the military five years ago allowing the U.S. Navy to develop a controversial research lab within UH, a key stipulation was that the results would be publicly available. But the university and Navy have disclosed few details about the research conducted over the course of the contract. And UH officials appear poised to sign off on a new agreement that would seal the deal on another five years before the public gets a chance to chime in. Civil Beat.

State roundup for July 10. Associated Press.

Oahu

In court Tuesday the defense attorney for U.S. State Department special agent Christopher Deedy played parts of the McDonald's restaurant's security surveillance video showing the aftermath of the agent shooting a Kailua man. Star-Advertiser.

The murder trial of Christopher Deedy continued in Honolulu Circuit Court on Tuesday. Prosecutors showed a picture of Elderts, who was wearing a baseball cap, and six friends having dinner at a restaurant in Waikiki. KHON2.

Honolulu's bus drivers ratified a new five-year labor contract Tuesday with Oahu Transit Services Inc., the company that runs TheBus. Star-Advertiser.

The veteran Oahu Community Correctional Center sergeant who apparently suffered cardiac arrest while on duty was alone because the second guard assigned to work with him had been moved because of a staff shortage elsewhere in the prison, sources told Hawaii News Now.

City officials admit they "bit off more than they can chew" with their bulky item trash pick-up program, but they say they're not the only ones to blame.  Consistent, scheduled bulky item pick-up is unheard of in most cities, especially when it's offered for free as it is here in Honolulu. Hawaii News Now.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources is asking the public to comment on a draft plan for managing nearly 500 acres of conservation land in Oahu's Waimanalo valley. Associated Press.

Hawaii

A bill aimed at curbing the invasive albizia tree in East Hawaii has residents of other areas worrying about an overreaching county government that could clear occupied lots of unpopular plants and bill the owners, placing a lien against their property if they don’t pay. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County Council members agreed Tuesday that Puna residents need a safe place to swim at Isaac Hale Beach Park. Tribune-Herald.

A proposal to prevent nonprofits from tapping the County Council’s contingency funds narrowly received a favorable nod Tuesday from council members. Tribune-Herald.

A compromise that would bring a little more transparency to the process of creating a Planned Unit Development is being crafted by the County Council Planning Committee, which on Tuesday seemed closer to an alternative offered by the administration over a bill sponsored by a council member. West Hawaii Today.

Lt. Gov. Shan Tsutsui — in his role as acting governor in the absence of Gov. Neil Abercrombie, who is on business in Taiwan through Friday — signed a pair of bills on Tuesday that appropriate funds for programs affecting Hilo and Hawaii Island. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Hundreds of disabled Maui residents are finding their "lifeline to the outside world" in "serious jeopardy" due to a recent switch in paratransit service providers, according to a Kihei resident who uses the service. Maui News.

Mokulele Airlines has been awarded a four-year, $1.76 million federally subsidized contract to provide 12 round-trip flights a week between Wai­mea on Hawaii island and Kahului. Star-Advertiser.

The Maui Police Department has acquired a Lenco "Bearcat" armored vehicle that will provide the department's Special Response Team with armored protection and tactical capabilities during high-risk operations, officials said. Maui News.

Amid declining inventories, sales of single-family homes rose 10 percent to 485 units- with median prices jumping 20 percent to $542,000 - in the first six months of the year, compared with the same period last year, data released Saturday by the Realtors Association of Maui showed. Maui News.

The Maui Department of Water Supply continues an ongoing capital improvement project to replace waterlines in Wailuku. The latest phase of the project begins tonight, July 9, at 8 p.m. and continues until 6 a.m. on Wednesday, July 10, officials said. Maui Now.

Kauai

A senior engineer with the County Department of Water has filed an age discrimination suit against the Department of Personnel Services. Garden Island.

The Kauai Planning Commission unanimously approved Tuesday a bill to repeal the last surviving Iniki ordinance. The repeal would place a barrier that could make it difficult to rebuild the iconic Coco Palms Resort. Garden Island.

Abercrombie's job approval same in poll, legislators get $12k raise, Honolulu evicts homeless, Ellison airlines buy still a go!, laws fight sex trafficking, protect children, University of Hawaii to digitize Inouye's life work, sequestration hits Kauai military, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu H1 traffic, courtesy Danny de Gracia II

Hawaii has the smallest state highway system in the nation and spends nearly the most among all the states to maintain its roads. But the Aloha State still ranked 48th out of 50 in overall performance and efficiency for its state highways, a new study by a Los Angeles-based think tank found. Star-Advertiser.

A Civil Beat Poll shows that 48 percent of registered voters disapprove of his job performance while just 45 percent approve.  Abercrombie's approval rating is about where it was in January, when Civil Beat last conducted a survey. In other words, he hasn't seen his numbers drop.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie signed three pieces of legislation into law Monday aimed at combating sex trafficking in Hawaii and increasing services for victims. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's prostitution and human trafficking laws just got a lot tougher. Gov. Neil Abercrombie signed four bills into law this year — three on Monday — that increase services for victims and heighten penalties for those who solicit prostitutes. Civil Beat.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie signed a domestic workers bill of rights Monday, making Hawaii the second U.S. state to give nannies, housekeepers and others protections on wages and other labor issues. Associated Press.

Currently, Hawaii legislators receive $46,273 per year for their part-time position at the legislature.  But that is about to increase by $10,000. As of July 1, legislators’ salaries will rise to $55,896. On January 1, 2014, lawmakers will receive another $2,000 pay hike. Hawaii Reporter.

The life work of the late U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye will be digitized through a partnership between the University of Hawaii at Manoa and the Library of Congress. A ceremony was held Monday at Hamilton Library to celebrate the collaboration as Ino­uye's widow, Irene Hirano Ino­uye, and representatives of UH and the Library of Congress signed an agreement on the partnership to establish the Daniel K. Ino­uye Project, honoring his legacy in public service. Star-Advertiser.

Will Hawaii Guava Jelly Win Friends and Influence Members of Congress? Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Electric Co., the largest power provider in the state, unveiled Monday a five-year plan that includes shutting down the Honolulu power plant near Aloha Tower, incorporating more renewable energy on its grids and converting customers to smart meters. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaiian Electric Cos. said Monday that it is shutting down its Downtown Honolulu power plant, as well as others on Oahu, Maui and the Big Island as part of its plan to meet future electricity needs, which it recently submitted to the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission. Pacific Business News.

HECO Releases New Five-Year Energy Plans. Civil Beat.

The federal Housing and Urban Development offices will be closed nationwide, including Hawaii, on Friday, as part of spending cuts, the agency said Monday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Reporter received six awards at the Society of Professional Journalists awards banquet on Friday, June 28, including three first places awards.

State roundup for July 2. Associated Press.

Oahu

City employees and private social workers will spend this week implementing the county's new law designed to remove homeless campers and others from Hono­lulu sidewalks. On Monday the city raided three spots used by the homeless campers: the Ala Wai Promenade at the Ewa entrance to Waikiki, Hono­lulu Stadium Park and Moiliili Field. No one was arrested in the three sweeps. Star-Advertiser.

Dozens of homeless campers are off of Honolulu's sidewalks and on the move. The city used a new law to seize their belongings without warning in Waikiki and Moiliili on Monday morning. Hawaii News Now.

Last week, Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell said enforcement of the city's new sidewalk nuisance law would involve "compassionate disruption." On Monday, the mayor lived up to his promise more than two months after Bill 7 was signed into law. KITV4.

Too much crime pushes business out of Chinatown. KHON2.

The Honolulu Police Department has begun an internal affairs investigation into the actions of a veteran police officer who was caught on video in a confrontation with a man trying to file a complaint against him. The police union confirmed the officer had been previously fired by HPD in another incident but regained his job. Hawaii News Now.

More than 400 artist applications were submitted for the chance to decorate Honolulu’s 21 future rail stations. Civil Beat.

Labor union Unite Here and Hyatt Hotels Corp. have announced an agreement to resolve a long-standing contract dispute and end a 2-year-old global boycott against the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa. Star-Advertiser.

Waianae family waits 5 months for solar power switch, blames HECO & City. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii Agricultural Foundation said Monday that it is now accepting applications for 11 acres in the second of several parcels in the 182-acre Kunia Agricultural Park. Pacific Business News.

State government and military officials broke ground Monday at Hale Kula Elementary campus at Schofield Barracks where a planned $33 million renovation project for the 54-year-old school is now underway. Star-Advertiser.

As a state representative and a stalwart pillar of the Democratic Party, Ernest "Juggie" Heen Jr. was a tireless worker for civil rights and workers' rights, tracing his passion to the 1940s, when as a teenager he accompanied his father, Ernest Sr., to his job as city clerk. Star-Advertiser.

On O'ahu, the Kailua fireworks display is back! And communities across the state are gearing up for their own 4th of July festivities. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii

The debate over genetically modified organisms has Big Island farmers sitting on both sides of the fence. Tribune-Herald.

Stephens Media Hawaii newspapers took home 11 trophies, including four first-place honors, in the Society of Professional Journalists Hawaii chapter 2012 Excellence in Journalism awards, presented Friday in Honolulu. West Hawaii Today.

A real-life accident didn’t interrupt a disaster drill, but it did provide valuable insight for the employees at Hale Hoola Hamakua, a 77-bed hospital and long-term care facility in Honokaa. West Hawaii Today.

Pahoa High and Intermediate School leads Big Island schools in the number of cases of serious misconduct committed by students over the last five years. Tribune-Herald.

An open ocean aquaculture company has received another international patent for its fish pens. Hawaii Oceanic Technology Inc. received a Canadian patent for its oceanspheres, CEO Bill Spencer said Monday. West Hawaii Today.

A Hawaii Island senator will be taking over a new committee this legislative session. The state Senate’s leadership selected Sen. Gil Kahele, D-Hilo, to chair the newly formed Tourism Committee. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Second Circuit Judge Joseph Cardoza denied a motion by Public Access Trails Hawaii on Friday morning to expedite the discovery period in an ongoing lawsuit against Haleakala Ranch. The ranch, which has sought to retain ownership of Haleakala Trail from the state for the past two years, was granted 90 days to respond to expert reports yet to be provided by the hikers' group. PATH has until July 17 to produce the documents. Maui News.

Water customers on Maui will see their rates increase by an average 5% when the Maui Department of Water Supply implements a planned water rate increase on July 1, 2013, official said. Maui Now.

The state Senate has split the Committee on Tourism and Hawaiian Affairs into two committees, with Central Maui Sen. Gilbert Keith-Agaran appointed as vice chairman of the Senate Tourism Committee. Maui News.

Kauai

Overall sequestration efforts by the Department of Defense will affect up to 13 percent of employees at the Pacific Missile Range Facility in Kekaha, who will have an additional 11 days off from now until mid-September. PMRF Public Affairs Matthew Diendorf said the facility employs about 1,000 people, including about 800 contractors, 70 military and 130 government employees. Garden Island.

Two months after the Hawaii Army National Guard announced and later withdrew its proposal for an expanded danger zone in the waters fronting the shooting range in Kekaha, the U.S. Navy has followed suit. Garden Island.

Kauai County Managing Director Gary Heu announced Monday that he will be retiring effective Oct. 31 after serving more than a decade as the county’s second-in-command and a brief stint as mayor. Garden Island.

Kauai County’s Managing Director Gary Heu announced that he will retire in October. Star-Advertiser.

To improve access to public services, the county recently began making modifications to the parking lot at the Lihue Civic Center. The work, which consists of several concurrent projects that follow the LCC master plan, is expected to be completed by the end of January 2014. Garden Island.

Lanai

The sale of go! airlines to the majority owner of Lanai, Larry Ellison, is still happening, despite the lack of an official announcement, Pacific Business News has learned.

Early Hawaii poll gives Schatz edge over Hanabusa for U.S. Senate, Hawaii shippers reach contract, federal public defenders in budget crunch, 'Rainbow' returns to Warriers' name, axis deer worry Maui and Big Island, Kaui upping dog license, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Brian Schatz, Colleen Hanabusa vie for U.S. Senate

U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz has a narrow lead over U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa in the Democratic Senate primary, 36 percent to 33 percent, according to the latest Civil Beat Poll. But with a 3.3 percent margin of error and nearly one-fourth of voters surveyed saying they are undecided, neither candidate has a clear advantage in a race that will be decided just over a year from now, on Aug. 9, 2014.

A four-year contract agreement reached this weekend between Matson Inc. and three unions that represent workers on its cargo ships does not include any cutbacks for workers, a president of one of the unions said Sunday. The new contract, which is subject to ratification by members of the Sailors’ Union of the Pacific, the Seafarers International Union and the Marine Firemen’s Union, was agreed upon Saturday, less than a day before Sunday’s midnight strike deadline. Star-Advertiser.

Three seagoing unions, the Sailors' Union of the Pacific, Seafarers International Union and Marine Fireman's Union, reached an agreement with the shipping giant Matson Saturday afternoon.  Hawaii News Now.

To avoid a projected budget deficit, Gov. Neil Abercrombie and state lawmakers made the painful choice in 2011 to temporarily suspend general excise tax exemptions on nearly two dozen business activities. The move was supposed to generate $173 million in fiscal year 2012 and $220 million in fiscal year 2013, the largest tax adjustment taken by the state during the recession. But the state does not know how much money was actually generated. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie plans to sign two bills designed to prevent human trafficking. Abercrombie’s office says the governor will sign a bill that puts children who are victims of sex and labor trafficking within the scope of the Child Protective Act. Associated Press.

Fiscal years begin July 1 on most financial calendars, and a slew of state government spending regulations kick in each year on that date. Policy laws also hit the books in a wave, though states often mark their independence by enacting such legislation on their own time. Associated Press.

The Hawaii State Ethics Commission has for years wrestled with how to make sure people abide by the gifts law. It’s finally come to the point that commissioners on Wednesday realized they need to do a comprehensive review of the statute and all the advisory opinions surrounding it. Civil Beat.

A third or more of the Hawaii federal public defender's staff might have to be laid off in coming months as a result of sequestration and other budget cuts, said Peter Wolff, the federal public defender for the District of Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

In an effort to improve the state's educational system, the Hawaii Department of Education is working to trade expensive management consultants for teams of specialists with specific knowledge of local schools. Civil Beat.

The 'Rainbow' is making its return to Manoa on Monday, as previously announced name changes for University of Hawaii athletics teams have officially gone into effect. In May, University of Hawaii at Manoa Athletics Director Ben Jay announced that all men's teams at the school—including football—would be known as the Rainbow Warriors, effective July 1. Hawaii News Now.

New findings from the University of Hawaii about how molten rock pushes against Earth's crust could help better predict earthquakes across the globe and shed new light on the Hawaiian Islands' geological origins, university officials say. Star-Advertiser.

State roundup for July 1. Associated Press.

Oahu
Starting today, Oahu's popular — and free — Freeway Service Patrol will expand its coverage of the H-1 freeway three miles eastward to Aina­koa Avenue in Wai­alae, the Department of Transportation announced Sunday. Star-Advertiser.

Starting Monday, July 1, Oahu’s sidewalks will start to look a lot cleaner because the city will start enforcing the new sidewalk law. The new law will allow city crews to immediately remove personal property deemed a “sidewalk-nuisance.” KHON2.

The City and County of Honolulu’s Planning Commission has scheduled a public hearing in July on a proposed land use change for Castle & Cooke Homes Hawaii Inc.’s planned 5,000-home Koa Ridge development in Central Oahu. Pacific Business News.

Flight crews from the 25th Combat Aviation Brigade conducted training with divers from the U.S. Navy Sea, Air, Land Delivery Vehicle Team One, Naval Special Warfare Group 3 here June 18. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii
East Hawaii healthcare providers say that their decision to make an early conversion to an electronic medical record system has saved them both money and trouble, compared to other Hawaii facilities. Tribune-Herald.

It’s part of a reverse birthday tradition. In celebration of its 52nd anniversary of establishment, Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park gives priceless presents of culture and experiences, said Chief of Interpretation Eric Andersen. West Hawaii Today.

Hunters hired by the Big Island Invasive Species Committee have killed their fourth axis deer. The deer was hunted last May in Ka‘u, according to the state Department of Land and Natural Resources. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County Mayor Billy Kenoi says he's confident a plant that burns solid waste to generate electricity can be built before he leaves office in 31⁄2 years, but the Big Island's newly appointed environmental management director says the life of Hilo landfill should be extended in case it is not. Associated Press.

Maui
The Maui Axis Deer Harvesting Cooperative, known for its rifle-hunting operations, has found a more cost-effective way to capture deer that could create a new market for meat. Maui News.

Maui News staffers snapped up 13 awards, including five first-place honors, from the Society of Professional Journalists' 2012 Excellence in Journalism Awards held Friday night on Oahu. Maui News.

Kauai

The Kauai Humane Society’s executive director says a proposal to increase dog license fees is “fair and equitable across the board to all people that own dogs.” Garden Island.

In observance of Independence Day, County of Kauai offices will be closed on Thursday along with all refuse transfer stations, all HI-5 bottle redemption centers and the Kekaha Landfill. In addition, the Kauai Resource Center, Puhi Metals Recycling Center and the Kapaa and Waimea swimming pools will be closed. Garden Island.

Hawaii agriculture gets boost, Abercrombie signs animal cruelty bills, state reacts to gay marriage rulings, former Kauai state rep sentenced for rock theft, Big Island mayor vows to build waste-to-energy, beaches rank fourth, GMO bill advances, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. Neil Abercrombie signs animal cruelty bill, courtesy photo

During a bill-signing ceremony enlivened by wagging tails and pooch-themed puns, Gov. Neil Abercrombie enacted six laws aimed at curtailing animal cruelty. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s agriculture industry is set to establish a strong position in world markets with new laws to help farmers, Gov. Neil Abercrombie said Wednesday. Abercrombie signed seven agriculture-related bills during a ceremony at the state Capitol. Associated Press.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie signed a bill Wednesday that will provide coffee farmers with funding to combat the coffee berry borer beetle. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaiian Humane Society calls it a great day for animals and those who care for them. Gov. Neil Abercrombie signed six new laws on Wednesday to help protect them. KHON2.

A federal lawsuit challenging Hawaii laws reserving marriage for heterosexual couples could provide the U.S. Supreme Court a chance to definitively rule on whether same-sex couples have a constitutional right to marriage. Star-Advertiser.

Supporters of same-sex marriage rallied at the State Capitol to celebrate the latest step toward making such unions legal in Hawaii. But they noted that it was still just a step. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii House Speaker Joseph Souki says he will meet with fellow Democrat lawmakers to discuss the ramifications of the Supreme Court's rulings on gay marriage. Associated Press.

Right now Governor Neil Abercrombie doesn't know if more gay marriage legislation is required or what it should say. Hawaii News Now.

The drive for gay marriage in Hawaii will intensify after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled Wednesday that gay couples legally married under state laws are entitled to federal tax and health care benefits. Star-Advertiser.

Given the U.S. Supreme Court's decisions Tuesday to overturn a ban on federal benefits for same-sex couples and to effectively allow same-sex marriages in California, what does this mean for Hawaii? Civil Beat.

Hawaii ranks fourth among 30 states for water quality at its beaches — up from seventh in 2011 but down from third in 2010, according to the Natural Resources Defense Council. West Hawaii Today.

It should go without saying that there's a conflict of interest if you can apply for a job and then have a direct say in whether you get the position. But that's apparently okay in certain parts of Hawaii government. Or it was until Wednesday when the Hawaii State Ethics Commission overturned two opinions in favor of a new one requiring the members of any state board or commission to resign before applying for a job that they are in charge of filling. Civil Beat.

Hawaii U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard is looking to fill two top staff positions. Amy Asselbaye, her Hawaii-based chief of staff, is departing to devote more time to her work at the Waianae Coast Comprehensive Health Center. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Department of Education is supposed to put a laptop or tablet in the hands of every public school student, and it has $8 million to figure out how to make the digital device initiative work during the coming school year. But the department appears to be off to a rocky — and rushed — start. And it’s shaping up as an $8-million gamble that might lead to the loss of many times more. Civil Beat.

Hospital visits and costs associated with mental illness soared between 2009 and 2012 after the state substantially cut mental health services. New statistics released Wednesday by Hawaii Health Information Corp. showed overall increases in emergency room visits, hospital admissions and charges statewide. Star-Advertiser.

A University of Hawaii Hawaiian language instructor is translating English-language classics into Hawaiian. R. Keao NeSmith has translated two well-known Lewis Carroll books from the 1800s for Evertype Publishing in Ireland, “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” and “Through the Looking Glass and What Alice Found There.” Associated Press.

State briefs 6.27. Associated Press.

Oahu

Less than a week after Mayor Kirk Caldwell and City Council leaders closed the book on a contentious 2014 budget season, they are agreeing to look at ways to raise more revenues. City Budget Director Nelson Koyanagi told the Council Budget Committee on Wednesday that the administration is amenable to developing more ways for the city to generate additional revenues to pay for services. Star-Advertiser.

What effects will transit spending have on the city budget? A forum this Saturday will examine this question. Hawaii Independent.

Honolulu Police officers have stepped up their presence in the Manoa area, incorporating plain clothes officers into routine patrols, after an up tick in reported crimes. Hawaii News Now.

There’s no question there’s money being generated by thousands of tourists who pay to park and then visit Hanauma Bay. But exactly how much cash is not easily discovered. KHON2.

Demolition recently started on part of the former Honolulu Advertiser building, which will be developed into a $200 million high-rise affordable condominium tower. Pacific Business News.

Sales were strong last week for condominium-hotel units in a planned Ritz-Carlton tower in Waikiki slated to start construction this summer, so why not build another one? That’s what the developer of the Ritz-Carlton Residences Waikiki Beach is considering. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

As his newly appointed Environmental Management director told a county panel the Hilo landfill could last another 12 years, Mayor Billy Kenoi vowed Wednesday that a waste-to-energy facility will be “on the ground” by the time he leaves office in 3 1/2 years. West Hawaii Today.

Members of Hawaii Island’s gay and lesbian community said that Wednesday’s Supreme Court rulings in favor of gay marriage mark important milestones in a fight that they think is still far from over. Tribune-Herald.

Stumps are all that remained Wednesday of four jacaranda trees and the rest are in danger of being cut down unless the state Department of Transportation changes its mind, said several concerned Big Island residents and Imua Landscaping Co., the contractor doing the tree removal and trimming. West Hawaii Today.

Organizers of Hawaii Island’s Fourth of July fireworks displays in Hilo and Kona say that the shows will go on, despite both sides struggling to raise funding. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The embattled Wailuku Main Street Association Inc./Tri-Isle Main Street Resource Center soon may be dissolved following a motion filed Tuesday in 2nd Circuit Court by the state Attorney General's Office. Maui News.

Lance Taguchi is Maui County's new auditor. His appointment to the position was confirmed Tuesday when the Maui County Council unanimously adopted a resolution appointing the current county deputy clerk to the new position. Maui News.

Mala boat ramp and the two loading docks at the West Maui boat launch facility will be closed off for about 60 days starting Oct. 14, as agreed upon at a public meeting Tuesday afternoon. Maui News.

Kauai

The Kauai County Council unanimously voted 7-0 Wednesday night to hold a public hearing on a proposed ordinance to regulate pesticides and GMOs by agricultural farms. Star-Advertiser.

A former state representative was sentenced to community service Wednesday for illegally receiving rocks from a historic preserve and heiau site in 2011. Roland Diaz Sagum III was sentenced to 200 hours of community service. His request to serve the sentence with the Royal Order of Kamehameha was approved by the court. Garden Island.

Hawaii governor signs preschool bills, medical marijuana bills to be signed today, Feds to set rules for Hawaiian Homelands, permit granted for Gene Simmons Maui restaurant, Honolulu council tackles smoking bans, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii preschoolers sing before bill signing

Surrounded by preschoolers, Gov. Neil Abercrombie signed a bill Monday that expands early childhood education. Even though it’s a far cry from what Abercrombie envisioned, he declared, “No other piece of legislation this year was more important.” The bill funds $1.16 million for administrative costs and $6 million in subsidies to help 900 children. Associated Press.

Hawaii moved closer Monday to providing universal preschool under legislation Gov. Neil Abercrombie signed that establishes a statewide school readiness program. Star-Advertiser.

Preschool bill signing

Governor Neil Abercrombie calls the 'school readiness' bill the most important legislation of the session. Parents in Hawaii pay an average of 640-dollars per month to send their child to preschool. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii’s first changes to its medical marijuana laws since their inception 13 years ago will begin with a bill-signing today, after the legislation survived a rather short potential veto list released Monday by Gov. Neil Abercrombie. West Hawaii Today.

Legislative leaders say they plan to meet with other lawmakers this week but do not expect a special session to override any of the nine bills on Gov. Neil Abercrombie’s potential veto list. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie notified lawmakers Monday that he intends to veto just nine of the 293 bills they passed. Last year, he had 20 bills on the list and went on to veto 14. In 2011, his potential veto list included 25 bills and he vetoed 17. Civil Beat.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie on Monday notified Hawaii lawmakers of his intent to veto nine of the 293 measures that passed the Legislature during this year’s session. Pacific Business News.

For the first time in nearly 100 years, the U.S. government may soon have formal rules for the federal law designed to put eligible Native Hawaiians onto homestead lots. The U.S. Department of the Interior on Monday notified the state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands of its intent to establish rules related to the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act of 1920, which set up a trust comprising roughly 200,000 acres throughout the islands for homesteading purposes. Star-Advertiser.

On March 1, Gov. Neil Abercrombie called for the formation of a Sequestration Impact Response Team to address nationwide federal spending reductions. The team is still trying to fill the 25 slots with people from government, the military, business and non-profits. Hawaii News Now.

The third National Climate Assessment aims to help federal, state and local officials to adapt to mounting environmental challenges that are likely to result from warming waters, higher average temperatures, more extreme weather, and rising sea levels. Civil Beat.

Hawaii falls smack dab in the middle of a list that rates overall child well-being across the country. Civil Beat.

While some analysts have compared the state’s growing unfunded pension and retirement benefit liabilities as a “tsunami,” overwhelming state taxpayers with an enormous debt, the comparison isn’t valid, says a new Senate Minority report. Hawaii Reporter.

Federal and state authorities are asking boaters to call in when they see dead whales floating at sea. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration regional marine mammal response manager David Schofield says early reporting allows officials to locate dead whales and tow the carcasses away from the islands. Associated Press.

State roundup for June 25. Associated Press.

Oahu

Three bills designed to curb smoking in public places on Oahu will be on the agenda of the City Council Public Safety and Economic Development Committee today. Star-Advertiser.

A nonprofit group under investigation for possible misuse of federal grant money received nearly $30 million in contracts from the U.S. Department of Defense between 2000 and 2012. Opportunities and Resources, Inc., also known as ORI Anuenue Hale, runs a wellness center and workplace for elderly and developmentally disabled people next to the Dole Plantation in Central Oahu. Civil Beat.

Oahu nonprofit groups may now request as little as $25,000, instead of a minimum of $50,000, from the city's new Grants in Aid Fund, city officials announced Monday. Star-Advertiser.

Although Honolulu's new sidewalk nuisance law is more than two months old, enforcement won't begin until next Monday. The city was forced to delay implementation if Bill 7 until new administrative rules could be written. KITV4.

Aliiolani Hale, the 139-year-old downtown Honolulu building that is home to the Hawaii Supreme Court and the iconic statue of Kame­ha­meha I, is about to undergo nearly $3 million in repairs. Star-Advertiser.

A  plan by a geologist and former mineral exploration company chief executive to establish an organic cacao farm in Wai­kane Valley took a step forward with publication of a draft environmental assessment Sunday. Star-Advertiser.

Members of the public can provide feedback on the latest designs for three planned rail stations — West Loch, Waipahu Transit Center and Leeward Community College — during a 6:30 p.m. meeting today at Waipahu Intermediate school, 94-455 Farrington Highway. Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation, the semiautonomous government agency overseeing the entire rail project, is holding the meeting. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

More than 50,000 of the state’s kids — or 17 percent — lived in poverty in 2011, up from 13 percent in 2005. Hawaii County, in particular, continues to have the highest child poverty rate, increasing from 18 percent in 2008 to almost 30 percent in 2011, according to statistics released Monday. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Rock & Brews LLC, a California-based restaurant chain involving rocker Gene Simmons of Kiss fame, which has plans to open in Paia on Maui, is moving ahead as the state of Hawaii recently approved its special management area minor permit. Pacific Business News.

Camp Maluhia, the largest Boy Scouts of America camp in Hawaii, received $1.5 million from the state for facility improvements and repairs as part of $41.2 million in state funding for capital improvement projects released by Gov. Neil Abercrombie on June 6. Maui News.

The Maui County law says sign waving too close to roads, crosswalks or intersections can distract drivers and become a hazard so there are space restrictions. But residents say it's not fair that the law is being selectively enforced. Kevin Olson's sign reads, "MPD spotter van ahead in the Times Super Market parking lot. Be smart." Holding that sign got Kevin Olson a $50 ticket. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

The Department of Water will hold informational meetings over the next few weeks to discuss the scheduled 11.2 percent water rate increase that will take effect on July 1. Garden Island.

A proposal to be introduced by the Kauai County Council Wednesday would mean a significant hike in dog-license fees — especially for owners of unneutered and unspayed dogs.Garden Island.