Medical marijuana dispensaries, super PACs, budget on Legislature's plate, no free trips for teachers, state investigating Lhaina boatyard, Ige mum on tax increase, Hawaii County mayor under investigation, NASA flying saucer to test parachute off Kauai, sandbar booze ban could be permanent, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Interior of Hawaii state Capitol © 2015 All Hawaii News

The Hawaii Legislature is heading into its final month and lawmakers are making deals in hopes of keeping their most important bills alive. The committees that handle the money have thick agendas this week as they plow through every proposal that results in spending or revenue. Associated Press.

The state Senate Committee on Public Safety, Intergovernmental and Military Affairs (PSM) amended a House bill aimed at mitigating hazardous situations by inserting word-for-word language from a separate measure which sought to ease restrictions on news media covering events, such as the June 27 lava flow. And it did it to a bill sponsored by none other than the very House representative who refused to give the media access measure a hearing. Tribune-Herald.

New financial disclosure database puts latest government officials' disclosures on one easy-to-read website. Civil Beat.

Deadline Looms for Ige to Pick New DLNR Chair. With the Carleton Ching appointment behind him, the governor has until Monday to nominate someone else if the Senate is to confirm him or her this session. Civil Beat.

Teachers who organize educational trips for students should not travel free as chaperones, courtesy of the tour company, according to new advice from state Ethics Commission attorneys. The directive flies in the face of longstanding practice in Hawaii's public schools and quickly ran into resistance. Star-Advertiser.

Ten years ago frustrated Hawaii residents waved signs, held town hall meetings and raised a chorus to demand a war on "ice" — crystal methamphetamine. Today, while the problem doesn't make the headlines it used to, officials say crystal meth, or ice, continues to torment Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Public Utilities Commission is shaking up the way Hawaiian Electric Co. makes money by limiting costs that are simply passed through to customers without appropriate regulatory scrutiny, according to public documents filed this week. Pacific Business News.

A local businessman with University of Hawaii athletics fundraising ties was arrested for theft and money laundering. Patrick Oki, age 45, was picked up by authorities just before 11 a.m. Sunday at the Honolulu International Airport. He’s the managing partner of PKF Pacific Hawaii, a company that provides auditing, accounting, and advising services. KHON2.

Police arrested the managing partner of local accounting firm PKF Pacific Hawaii on Sunday on suspicion of first-degree theft and money laundering. Star-Advertiser.

In our series this week “Trashing Paradise” we’ve been looking at a number of issues involving waste in Hawaii, and many of them differ from island to island. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Hawaii Gov. David Ige isn’t saying whether he will approve or veto any extension of a General Excise Tax surcharge that is being earmarked for Honolulu’s $6 billion rail project. But he does acknowledge that he’s worried an estimated $910 million shortfall in construction costs will continue to balloon. And he’s not sure taxpayers should be penalized for potential mismanagement. Civil Beat.

The Senate Ways and Means Committee is scheduled Monday to discuss a proposed draft of a bill that would instruct the state Department of Land and Natural Resources to engage in buying Alii Place, a 25-story building Ewa of the state Capitol on the edge of downtown Honolulu. The price could be close to $90 million. And that doesn't include the land under the building. Star-Advertiser.

The state is currently paying more than $10 million to rent private office space in downtown Honolulu. Some lawmakers believe money can be saved by buying a downtown high-rise office building. Hawaii News Now.

The electronic door locking systems for the state's largest prison have begun to fail after 28 years of use, and prison officials plan to replace them next year with a new high-tech, $9.9 million security system. The state plans to move about 250 inmates from Halawa Correctional Facility to a prison on the mainland early next year to clear out portions of Halawa so work can start on the replacement of the obsolete Hawaii locking system. Star-Advertiser.

For the last three years the state has banned drinking alcohol on certain weekends at Ahu O Laka, or the Kaneohe Sandbar. Now the time has come for the Department of Land and Natural Resources to decide whether to make that rule permanent. Hawaii News Now.

Developers of the 11,750-home Hoopili project in West Oahu say they are OK with being required to offer more homes at lower prices as sought by Hono­lulu City Council members. Star-Advertiser.

According to HPD records, Sergeant Anson Kimura was arrested and released Sunday on suspicion of second degree assault. The incident happened Friday morning when it is said Kimura shot a 40-year old woman in the torso at King's Sports Bar. KITV4.

A Honolulu deputy prosecutor and former state legislator has been arrested on suspicion of operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Associated Press.

Hawaii

A state attorney general investigation and an ethics complaint are following this week’s revelations that Mayor Billy Kenoi regularly used a county-issued credit card for personal purchases ranging from a $1,200 surfboard to visits to Honolulu hostess bars.West Hawaii Today

Hawaii County finance officials had warned Mayor Billy Kenoi several times that his personal purchases on a county credit card were improper, but the spending practice did not stop until December 2013 when he charged $892 at a Honolulu hostess bar, the finance director says. Star-Advertiser.

A new sound study shows that the proposed Kona Motorsport Park won’t be a noise nuisance to its neighbors. The park, which has been in discussions for two decades now, won’t become reality until a number of hurdles are cleared. But Paul Maddox, president of the Hawaii Racing Association, said the study should help convince detractors who worry their peace of mind will be ruined by engine noise. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County Councilman Greggor Ilagan has drafted legislation that he says will bring clarity to a county ordinance dealing with neighborhood watch signs. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The state has started an investigation into a Lahaina boatyard’s practice of collecting storage fees from boaters near the Mala boat ramp. The Department of Land and Natural Resources is investigating whether the owner of the Mala Boat Yard is allowed to collect rent from boaters under his revocable month-to-month lease with the state. Associated Press.

A Lahaina business is under investigation for collecting storage fees from boaters on land leased from the state near the Mala boat ramp for more than three decades. Maui News.

Haleakala National Park is celebrating the kick-off of a national public awareness and education campaign celebrating the centennial anniversary of the National Park Service. Haleakala joins parks, programs and partners across the country to launch the FindYourPark.com website, marking the milestone Park Service anniversary in 2016. MauiTime.

Schools weigh attendance against risk of spreading lice. Maui News.

Kauai

A NASA flying saucer will be sent aloft by balloon from Kauai in June in a second test of braking technology intended for use in landings on Mars. Star-Advertiser.

A recent initiative completed by the Kauai Civil Defense Agency is a signage project that directs people along evacuation routes and guides them safely out of evacuation zones. Along island roads, 128 tsunami advisory signs were placed. Garden Island.

A Kauai man is among Gov. David Ige’s nominations to the University of Hawaii Board of Regents. The appointments are subject to confirmation by the Senate. David Iha, Kauai County, will serve upon confirmation through June 30, 2017. Garden Island.

Schatz attacks Hanabusa attack ad, Honolulu homeless may get one-way ticket to mainland, fight for breastfeeding rights, Maui mayor stifles staff, nursing homes not inspected, groups fear disclosure veto, turtle selfies banned, NASA test flight, brown water on Kauai, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Brian Schatz, Colleen Hanabusa

U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz on Saturday knocked U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa for what he called the first negative advertisement in their Democratic primary, a postcard that reminds voters of Schatz's support for the Bipartisan Budget Act, which extended cuts in Medicare. Star-Advertiser.

A Disregarded Request From a Beloved Senator Shakes Up Hawaii’s Primary. New York Times.

The state has failed to inspect more than a third of Hawaii's 45 nursing homes within the time frame required by federal law, reflecting an oversight gap that some experts say could come at the expense of the facilities' vulnerable residents. Concerned about the problem, the federal government is threatening to fine the state as much as $121,000 if the timeliness requirements are not met by the end of September. Star-Advertiser.

Many Candidates Vie for Three At-Large Seats on OHA Board. In all, five posts are up for election this year for the Office of Hawaiian Affairs Board of Trustees, which is increasingly under the spotlight. Civil Beat.

How much federal money goes toward Native Hawaiian programs? About $34.9 million per year, according to our preliminary analysis. Hawaii Independent.

Hawaii's health insurance exchange is making a final push to capture a share of the small-business market as the bulk of groups renew policies in July. Despite significant computer glitches that initially stunted its growth, the Hawaii Health Connector is aggressively marketing the Small Business Health Options Program, known as SHOP, the piece of the Affordable Care Act intended to increase insurance options for workers. Star-Advertiser.

Just when they’re needed to help students master newly required skills, librarians seem to have become a low priority at many schools, particularly at the elementary level. Civil Beat.

Two members of the University of Hawaii Board of Regents have resigned after state lawmakers unanimously passed a bill requiring public financial disclosures from people serving on more than a dozen state boards and commissions. Associated Press.

Democratic gubernatorial candidate State Senator David Ige is criticizing  the governor’s notice of intent to veto SB2682, which would require the disclosure of financial statements by members of 15 state boards and commissions,  including the Public Utilities Commission, University of Hawaii Board of Regents, Board of Education, Hawaii Community Development Authority, Board of Land and Natural Resources and others. Hawaii Reporter.

Commentary: League of Women Voters Debunks Governor’s Take on Disclosure Bill. The organization doesn't accept the idea that women would be harmed by the law, and hopes it would help the governor vet nominees. Civil Beat.

Commentary: Governor’s Veto Threat on Bill Shows This Is Not a ‘New Day’ Neil Abercrombie's argument that a transparency bill will harm women is sexist. Civil Beat.

Respect the Locals: Sea Turtle Selfies Are Uncool — and Illegal State, federal officials remind public that harassing honu is against the law and can result in a fine. Civil Beat.

Oahu

A year after the state declined to start up a pilot program to send the homeless back to the mainland, the business community in Waikiki might step up and fill the void. Rick Egged, president of the Wai­kiki Improvement Association, said his organization will be looking to establish some sort of airfare fund in response to a plea from providers of homeless services. Star-Advertiser.

A homeless mother is fighting for her right to breastfeed in public. The woman says the Oahu shelter she is staying at told her to cover up or get out. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu’s homeless are most visible in Kakaako, Waikiki, and Chinatown but they are everywhere throughout the state, in the parks and bushes and at the beach. Several of Hawaii’s political candidates have made addressing Hawaii’s homelessness and lack of housing a top issue this election. Hawaii Reporter.

The deadline for comments on the Kawainui-Hamakua master plan is Monday, and environmental and neighborhood groups are joining forces over concern that the proposed development will damage the natural resources and character of Kailua. Star-Advertiser.

The concrete barriers at popular Laniakea Beach were supposed to be a temporary fix to help keep the traffic flowing along Oahu's famed North Shore, but six months after workers installed them, it's unclear how long "temporary" will be. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The state Board of Land and Natural Resources on Friday approved granting the $1.3 billion Thirty Meter Telescope project a sublease for land on Mauna Kea. In concept anyway. While the board voted in favor of the agreement, it won’t go into effect until several contested case hearing requests are resolved. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii Board of Land and Natural Resources voted to approve The University of Hawaii at Hilo's sublease of land on the summit of Mauna Kea for the $1.3 billion Thirty Meter Telescope, but the approval is on hold until the board hears several contested case requests are resolved. Pacific Business News.

The first group of 60 minimum-security inmates are expected to arrive at Hawaii island's Kulani Correctional Facility after it reopens this week, easing some of the crowding in the state's prison system. Star-Advertiser.

The dean of the Daniel K. Inouye College of Pharmacy said Friday that he will be stepping down at the end of the year. John Pezzuto, who helped launch the college at the University of Hawaii at Hilo in 2006, is moving on to the Arnold and Marie Schwartz College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences at Long Island University in Brooklyn, New York, where he will serve as professor and dean. Tribune-Herald.

Some day, tanks at aquaculture farms around the state and nation could be teeming with millions of colorful fish to help stock the nation’s aquariums. At least that’s the dream for Syd Kraul and others who have attempted to strike the fine balance needed to rear species such as angelfish and yellow tang in captivity. But that day isn’t today. West Hawaii Today.

Women of the Womb do a chant to open communication during the launch of the Hawaii Star Visitor Sanctuary and UFO landing pad Friday afternoon in Kalapana near Unle Robert's Awa Club. The event was part of the weekend long Ho'ohana "A Sustainability Talk Story." Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The mayor of Maui ordered an end to direct communication between his staff and members of the Maui County Council. Mayor Alan Arakawa last week directed all county civil service employees, administration directors and staff to stop communicating verbally or in writing with council members or staff. The employees were instead directed to send communications through the office of the mayor and the managing director’s office. Associated Press.

For nearly two decades, Hana residents have known exactly where to go when they have had an after-hours medical emergency - the Hana Health hale where American Medical Response paramedics live. Maui News.

The state’s first flashing yellow arrow traffic signal has been installed on Maui and will be activated at 12:30 p.m. on Monday, June 30, 2014, county officials announced. Maui Now.

Kauai

NASA officials are calling Saturday’s experimental test flight off the coast of Kauai a success, despite a malfunction of the saucer-shaped vehicle’s gigantic parachute. Garden Island.

A mysterious brownish-green plume off Kauai has prompted the state Clean Water Branch to issue a brown-water advisory for the coastal waters between Moloaa and Anahola bays. Star-Advertiser.

The federal government is considering whether the Native Hawaiian community should be treated as its own government and is seeking input from the Kauai community. Public meetings on Kauai are from 6 to 9 p.m. Monday at the Waimea Neighborhood Center and from 6 to 9 p.m. Tuesday at Kapaa Elementary School. Garden Island.

Molokai

The Native Hawaiian community on Molokai added its voice to the growing chorus of those who are rejecting a federal proposal that could lead to a formal U.S. relationship with a potential Native Hawaiian government. Star-Advertiser.

HI-5 recycling programs suspended, marijuana dispensaries mulled, Honolulu Hale could move to Kapolei, Kaui chamber hopes to limit charter petitions, Honolulu police problems, Hawaii County building inspector dinged for ethics, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii HI-5 recycling © 2014 All Hawaii News 

The state’s largest beverage container recycler Reynolds Recycling will not be collecting bottles and cans beginning Thursday, and there is no definite date on when it can resume. Reynolds says the state owes the company more than a million dollars, and without that money it cannot keep most of its staff on the job, about 100 people. That means no one will be manning the 40 redemption centers statewide on Thursday. KHON2.

The 21 members of the Medical Marijuana Dispensary Task Force met for the first time Tuesday to begin the work of developing recommendations to the 2015 Legislature for establishing a medical marijuana distribution system. Without dispensaries, patients must grow it themselves, have a caregiver to grow it for them or obtain it illegally. There are 13,000 people registered for the state medical marijuana program — among the first in the nation when formed 14 years ago. Star-Advertiser.

At the capitol, a series of public meetings began Wednesday so lawmakers can learn more about why Hawaii Health Systems Corp. is facing a $48 million shortfall. KITV4.

Federal hearings that began this week about a future relationship with a potential Native Hawaiian government have tapped deep emotions — spurring anger and fury among hundreds who have testified. But the first four sessions have also raised concern that not all Native Hawaiian views are being reflected in the process. Star-Advertiser.

A state senator is calling for lawmakers to override a potential veto by Gov. Neil Abercrombie on a bill requiring more financial disclosures from people serving on more than a dozen state boards and commissions. But Republican Sen. Sam Slom said Wednesday he doubts his colleagues will be inclined to override a veto even though the bill unanimously passed the Senate and House. Associated Press.

The waters off Hawaii Island are home to a half-million brightly-colored tropical fish that are scooped up into nets each year and flown across the globe into aquariums from Berlin to Boston. Scientists say the aquarium fishery off the Big Island is among the best managed in the world, but it has nevertheless become the focus of a fight over whether it's ever appropriate to remove fish from reefs for people to look at and enjoy. Associated Press.

Oahu

A measure now moving through the City Council would require the administration to study the feasibility of moving the City and County of Honolulu's seat of government — the familiar California-Spanish building on King and Punchbowl streets — to spacious new digs in Kapolei. Star-Advertiser.

A bill adding bags described as biodegradable and compostable to the list of plastic bags that retailers cannot give to Oahu customers starting in 2015 continues to move through the Hono­lulu City Council. Bill 38 advanced out of the Public Works and Sustainability Committee on Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

City Councilman Stanley Chang is behind a bill to ban foam food containers for environmental reasons. But the bill's opponents insist most containers are burned at HPOWER and don't go to the landfill. Hawaii News Now.

In June 2013, the Honolulu Police Department paid $238,988  for 12 automatic license plate readers (ALPRs) to help it recover stolen cars and solve other crimes. A year later, the department is still assessing the effectiveness of its purchase, and there are concerns about whether the technology is spying on innocent citizens under the guise of law enforcement. Civil Beat.

A Honolulu Police officer has been indicted on multiple federal charges. According to police sources, Roddy Tsunezumi was involved in an elaborate scheme involving stolen cars. Hawaii News Now.

Chimpanzees at the Honolulu Zoo will be kept in a pen near their sleeping quarters until an investigation is done into how one of the primates escaped from the exhibit for a short time Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

The latest piece of a master-planned community of residential towers by Kamehameha Schools in Kakaako has been fleshed out with details that include a putting green, guest suites and unit prices projected to start at $900,000. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii developers the Kobayashi Group and The MacNaughton Group have received approval from the Ala Moana/Kakaako Neighborhood Board to move ahead with its Vida at 888 Ala Moana luxury condominium high-rise on a 3.5-acre site in Honolulu. Pacific Business News.

As the state's largest private landowner, Kamehameha Schools prides itself as a good steward of its land and natural resources. But just several hundred yards from its flagship Kapalama Heights campus, an illegal dump site has been discovered. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii
A county construction inspector who became too involved in a Holualoa neighborhood dispute was found Wednesday to have violated the county ethics code. West Hawaii Today.

Puna County Council candidate and former Councilwoman Emily Naeole gave the Board of Ethics a piece of her mind Wednesday after the board voted it had no jurisdiction over an ethics complaint against her. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County is drafting a request for proposals for a study on whether geothermal development in Puna is having an impact on the health of residents. The study is one of the recommendations made by the Geothermal Public Health Assessment Study Group in its report to the county last year. Tribune-Herald.

The Environmental Protection Agency is giving Puna Geothermal Venture another month to respond to a report that alleged Clean Air Act violations. The 14 violations cited in the April report apply to the act’s general duty clause and risk management program requirements. Tribune-Herald.

A plan to recommission the Lalamilo wind farm to power county water wells could save ratepayers $1 million a year. A draft environmental assessment released this month found no significant impacts to repowering the old South Kohala site with five Vestas 660 kilowatt wind turbine generators. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Hawaii’s rising movement against genetically modified farming has seen successes in Kauai County and Hawaii County, but the latest proposal in Maui County will test how far residents are willing to go to get rid of genetically modified organisms (GMOs). The Maui County Council — which represents Maui, Molokai and Lanai — recently began considering the county’s first-ever citizens initiative, which seeks to temporarily ban genetically modified farming until biotechnology companies pay for a study to analyze its health effects. Civil Beat.

A Maui man who sued the county then attempted to run for mayor was blocked from the race Wednesday because of how he filed financial disclosure statements. Associated Press.

Judge Peter Cahill today ruled to uphold the invalidation of Neldon Mamuad’s mayoral nomination, which the County Clerk’s office had determined was incomplete. Maui Now.

Second Circuit Judge Peter Cahill disqualified Neldon Mamuad as a candidate for mayor on Wednesday afternoon. Maui News.

A Final Environmental Impact Statement for proposed ferry pier improvements at Lahaina Small Boat Harbor will be discussed during a public informational meeting on Wednesday, July 2, the state Department of Land and Natural Resources announced. Maui Now.

Kauai

The Kauai Chamber of Commerce hopes to succeed where the County Charter Review Commission did not. It wants to quadruple the number of signatures required to put a proposed amendment to the Kauai County Charter to a public vote. And it’s organizing a petition drive to do just that, one week after the review commission killed off similarly proposed legislation. Garden Island.

Officials from the state’s public health care provider say they are working to develop financial plans to stabilize operations on Kauai and reverse the region’s cash-strapped path. What that could mean, however, are cuts or consolidations in services and medical staff, Hawaii Health Systems Corporation officials from Kauai acknowledged to state lawmakers. Garden Island.

A NASA flying saucer designed to test Mars lander technology could be launched on Earth this weekend. Associated Press.

Molokai

For the first time as the state’s new Department of Health (DOH) Director, Dr. Linda Rosen visited the Kalaupapa settlement last week and was warmly welcomed by residents. Molokai Dispatch.

Homeless overtake Waikiki, rail not creating promised jobs, UH president to be picked today, Maui's Buzz's Wharf closes, Honolulu plastic bag ban lags, Maui not enforcing smoking ban, GMO discussed in Hilo, Kauai, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki homeless © 2014 All Hawaii News

There are more homeless in Waikiki than ever before, and it’s presenting a problem for both government and businesses that count on return visitors to keep the tourism engine humming. KHON2.

Homelessness has put Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell in an unenviable bind. He says it’s important to empathize with and support those who are living on the streets by providing them with stable housing. At the same time, he understands that as mayor he must respond to community angst over an increasingly visible crisis by clearing out the homeless from parks and sidewalks. Civil Beat.

The deadline for candidate filing for state and county offices is at 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday. Associated Press.

Closing Hawaii's open Democratic primary could all but eliminate competition from other political parties, which would be "bad for democracy," the state warned in a new legal filing in federal appeals court. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Republican Assembly's letter criticizing the Hawaii Republican Party leadership already caused Colleen Meyer to quit the assembly. As she prepares to take on the HIRA-friendly candidate for Clayton Hee's senate seat, Richard Fale, we wonder what else this internal bickering could lead to. Hawaii Independent.

To retain his seat as lieutenant governor, former Maui state Sen. Shan Tsutsui will need to win the Democratic primary and beat two contenders who enjoy more name recognition statewide - longtime Oahu state Sen. Clayton Hee and former TV news reporter Mary Zanakis. Maui News.

The person selected to be the University of Hawaii's next president is expected to be announced soon. The university Board of Regents is scheduled to make a selection between two finalists at a meeting on Monday. Associated Press.

Oahu

The Honolulu light rail project is generating far fewer local jobs than originally projected, partially due to legal delays and the hiring of out-of-state workers. Civil Beat.

A Honolulu City Council committee is holding up a plan to make changes to the impending plastic bag prohibition on Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

The superintendent of the USS Arizona Memorial has reversed his stand on the diversion of "walk-up" tour tickets — which are supposed to be free — for sale to commercial operators. Paul DePrey now says the practice, carried out over a period of about seven months, was in fact against National Park Service policy. Star-Advertiser.

A Hawaii judge has halted construction of the second affordable condominium tower on the site of the former Honolulu Advertiser building after finding the Hawaii Community Development Authority did not follow state historic preservation laws and state burial laws when it approved the second building in developer Downtown Capital LLC's 801 South St. project. Pacific Business News.

The Navy has awarded a contract to drill monitoring wells near its Red Hill Underground Fuel Storage Facility to gauge whether leaked fuel may be migrating toward the county’s drinking water supply. Civil Beat.

Businesses near Honolulu's proposed $5.2 billion, 20-mile rail line may be eligible for Brownfields grant funding to assess whether their commercial or industrial property requires removal of toxic substances. Star-Advertiser.

City Council members appear ready to give the Caldwell administration the OK to find a new buyer for the city's housing proj­ects, but want to limit the number of units that can be converted to accommodate low-income and very-low-income occupants in the Downtown-Chinatown district. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Hawaii County set itself apart from much of the rest of the state in December by effectively banning the large biotech seed companies that have become a major, though controversial part of Hawaii agriculture. But with a ban also on the outdoor testing of transgenic crops, can the Big Island, home to genetically modified papaya, still be a place for genetic research? Tribune-Herald.

A sailboat that ran ashore at Old Kona Airport Park did not damage the reef there, a state biologist said. West Hawaii Today.

El Nino could create more frequent, stronger storms for Hawaii. West Hawaii Today.

Before Apollo astronauts went to the moon, they came to Hawaii to train on the Big Island's lunar landscapes. Now, decades-old photos are surfacing of astronauts scooping up Hawaii's soil and riding across volcanic fields in a moon buggy vehicle. Associated Press.

Maui

The bill to ban smoking in Maui County parks, recreational facilities and beaches was signed into law more than a month ago, the day the County Council passed the measure in April, but full implementation and enforcement will require a little more time, county officials said. Maui News.

President Barack Obama's half sister, Maya Soetoro-Ng, Hawaiian music legend Robert Cazimero and NASA astronomer and researcher of extra terrestrial life Svetlana Berdyugina will be among the 19 speakers from Maui and the Mainland at TEDxMaui, from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sept. 28 in the Maui Arts & Cultural Center's Castle Theater. Maui News.

After being in business for 47 years, Buzz's Wharf has closed, according to its Facebook page. Maui News.

Late this morning, Buzz’s Wharf Restaurant at Ma’alaea Boat Harbor confirmed that they’ve closed their doors… permanently. Maui Now.

Kauai

The skies off Kauai will be a stand-in for Mars as NASA prepares to launch a saucer-shaped vehicle in an experimental flight designed to land heavy loads on the red planet. Associated Press.

NASA officials are planning a test launch of a developmental spacecraft at the U.S. Navy's Pacific Missile Range Facility on Kauai that could happen on one of six days between Monday and June 13. Hawaii News Now.

A petition with more than 4,000 signatures has been submitted to the Kauai County Clerk's office to put a proposed charter amendment on the ballot that would regulate the use of pesticides and genetically modified organisms by commercial agricultural operations. Star-Advertiser.

A project designed to revitalize Kauai’s rich cultural heritage utilizing signage and state-of-art technology was launched today with the ceremonial placement and blessing of signs identifying the borders of the six moku on the islands of Kauai and Niihau. Garden Island.

A media whirlwind followed Wednesday’s sentencing of a Kilauea man who made his 8-year-old son walk home from school as a form of punishment. Garden Island.

Al Gore raises climate awareness in Honolulu, Schatz holds money lead over Hanabusa, Obamacare health exchange extends sign-up deadline, Oahu farm fined for labor practices, Hawaii County kills homeless bill, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Climate change crowd, Brian Schatz courtesy photo

The man who was almost president graced Honolulu with his presence Tuesday and walked us through a "seminar of sustainability." By turns a university professor, a wry observer, a recovering politician, a joke teller and a Southern preacher, Al Gore fired up an audience of thousands at the Stan Sheriff Center to believe that global warming can be stopped. But it's possible only if each of us does our part. Civil Beat.

Al Gore

Al Gore brought his inconvenient truth to Hawaii on Tuesday night, praising local officials for making progress on global warming issues but saying there's more work ahead. Star-Advertiser.

Even though the world faces melting Arctic sea ice, more violent storms and flooding, dying coral reefs, more droughts and wildfires, U.S. Sen. Barbara Boxer suggested in Honolulu on Tuesday that Americans shouldn't expect great solutions from the nation's capital. Civil Beat.

U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz preserved his fundraising lead over U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa during the past quarter, but both Democrats saw their donations dip as the competition for campaign money increased nationally. Schatz raised about $601,320 from January through March and has topped $4 million overall, according to his federal campaign finance report. Hanabusa raised about $427,860 during the past quarter and more than $2 million overall, her report shows. Star-Advertiser.

You know it's election season when politicians and political action committees start buying up ads on TV. In the past six months, more than $700,000 has been spent on political TV spots, public records kept by each local TV station show. Much of that has been spent since January, as campaign season kicks into a higher gear ahead of the Aug. 9 primary. Civil Beat.

Help to shape the agenda for the 2014 elections. Hawaii Independent.

Hawaii environmental and cultural groups are raising the alarm about two bills in the Legislature that would make it easier for developers to get projects approved without undergoing the state’s review process for historic buildings. The measures, Senate Bill 2633 and House Bill 1678, limit the definition of “historic property” in state law and specify what types of residences need to go through the review process. Civil Beat.

State lawmakers began deliberations today on the state budget in a joint Senate-House conference committee.   The largest state funding outlay – about one-third of total spending – goes to Hawai’i’s public school system. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Hawaii Health Connector has extended the  initial grace period— which would have ended on Tuesday — given to individuals in need of extra time completing the enrollment application process for health insurance by a couple of weeks to April 30. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii lawmakers are weighing whether insurance companies should be required to cover more treatments for infertility and to update a law that some say discriminates against unmarried women. The resolution (SCR 35) calls on the state auditor to study the social and economic impacts of the fertility-coverage proposal. Associated Press.

Beginning May 1, the cost of a state identification card and the documents required to obtain a driver’s license will increase. KHON2.

Russia's out and China is in. Two years ago it was the other way around. This year's Rim of the Pacific war games in and around Hawaii, from late June to early August, are expected to be among the biggest ever, with 23 nations and 25,000 people, officials said. Star-Advertiser.

On Tap at the Hawaii Legislature: April 16. A selective list of bills, resolutions, hearings, briefings and events for Wednesday at the state Capitol. Civil Beat.

State briefs for April 16. Associated Press.

Oahu

Fat Law Farm, which distributes herbs and vegetables to Safeway, D. Otani Produce and a number of other stores locally, and is the main exporter of Hawaiian-grown basil to the U.S. mainland and Canada, has been fined nearly a half a million dollars by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage & Hour division for its treatment of its Laotian workers. Hawaii Reporter.

The Coast Guard cutter Morgenthau, berthed at Coast Guard Base Sand Island, improperly discharged about 4,600 gallons of wastewater and sewage into Honolulu Harbor, the Coast Guard confirmed Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

The state House on Monday approved a bill that would place new restrictions on the Hawaii Community Development Authority and increase public notice requirements for development projects in burgeoning Kakaako. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

If the county moves ahead with the purchase of more than 1,200 acres of Ka‘u coastline, as the County Council’s Finance Committee recommended Tuesday, it will create the largest beach park in the state, Lehua Lopez-Mau said. West Hawaii Today.

Homeless bill heads back to drawing board. West Hawaii Today.

Not a single Hawaii County resident showed up for Tuesday night’s budget hearing. The Hawaii County Council held the hearing at the West Hawaii Civic Center, with videoconference sites in Hilo, Pahoa and Waimea. Council members adjourned the hearing, the first opportunity county residents had to weigh in on the administration’s proposed budget, within minutes of its 5 p.m. start time. West Hawaii Today.

A Hawaii News Now investigation revealed that Hawaii Community College failed to spend a majority of its student government and activities fees last year, leaving $173,000 leftover, alarming state lawmakers.  Those unspent funds are in addition to $245,000 in publication, recreation and campus center fees for which students said they got little or nothing.

It’s been about 10 years since a Volcano charter school has seen any renovations. But all that is about to change with the recent release of $618,000 to the Friends of Volcano School of Arts &Sciences from Gov. Neil Abercrombie. Tribune-Herald.

A former Big Island man accused of sexually abusing boys he fostered and adopted is shown fleeing a film crew in an online documentary published Monday. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Recent letters to local media criticizing the Maui Humane Society's animal euthanasia practices and urging the organization to hire a new leader with a no-kill philosophy have led some of the nonprofit's board members and supporters to fork out their own money for a public advertisement to address those letters, a board member said Monday. Maui News.

A "Maui County Remembers" memorial fund has been established by Pulama Lana'i to provide financial assistance to the families of those who perished or were injured in the Lana'i plane crash on February 26, 2014. All funds will be allocated to assist crash victims and their families. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

NASA recently showed off a saucer-shaped Mars entry vehicle in California that is bound for Hawaii for a unique series of test flights starting in June. NASA previously said the Kauai flights will represent the first supersonic parachute tests for re-entry missions in more than 40 years. Star-Advertiser.

A rapid transit hub on Eiwa Street and office spaces in the now vacant Big Save building is what county officials are envisioning for the Lihue Civic Center as plans move ahead to redefine the busy area of town. Garden Island.

Hawaii 'Mars' researchers come down to Earth, reapportionment foes appeal to U.S. Supreme Court, state spends $24M more on software bid, WWII vet fights for benefits, Honolulu asks feds for garage space, murder only choice for Deedy jurors, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Researchers emerge from HI-SEAS isolation dome (c) 2013 All Hawaii News

The Aloha State's unique and historic role in training for space exploration took another giant leap Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Six space researchers who spent four months in isolation in a bright white dome perched on the northern flank of Mauna Loa emerged Tuesday squinting into the sunshine and marveling at the clear air in their nostrils, the cool breeze caressing their flesh and the lava rock crunching underfoot. West Hawaii Today.

See photos of the crew and the habitat here

Hawaii's drawn-out process to settle on its political district boundaries isn't quite finished. On Friday, the plaintiffs who are suing the state Office of Elections over its 2011 reapportionment plan appealed their case to the U.S. Supreme Court. Civil Beat.

Advocates for immigration reform will bring half a birthday cake Thursday to the local offices of U.S. Reps. Colleen Hana­busa and Tulsi Gabbard, marking the anniversary of a federal policy offering undocumented youth a reprieve from deportation. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Department of Human Services awarded a $90 million contract for software to comply with the Affordable Care Act to a multi-billion dollar consulting firm, KPMG, rather than a smaller company, EngagePoint, that has previously secured similar jobs in other states. But EngagePoint's bid would have cost taxpayers $24 million less. Civil Beat.

A World War II veteran is fighting to save his Social Security benefits after allegedly being called a traitor for protesting an over payment claim. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii Supreme Court last week articulated an expansive view of the public’s “right to know” and the open meeting requirements of the state’s Sunshine Law that should make openness advocates giddy. Civil Beat.

A Hawaii scientist has found a fly species whose bulging middle legs bear a resemblance to the spinach-fueled forearms of the cartoon sailor Popeye. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

A multi-billion-dollar rail system faces another legal hurdle Thursday before the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco. Hawaii Reporter.

Honolulu's City Transportation Director Mike Formby has appealed to a top Federal Transit Administration official to allow hundreds of city employees to park in a $19 million new parking garage that is nearly empty. Hawaii News Now.

The Department of Veterans Affairs plans to break ground around November on a project to put in 7,000 more columbarium "niches" for cremated remains at Punchbowl cemetery. Star-Advertiser.

The solar photovoltaic industry, one of the fastest growing sectors in Hawaii, may be showing signs of slowing down — July was the third straight month showing a year-over-year decline in permits issued on Oahu, according to new statistics collected by Marco Mangelsdorf, president of Hilo-based ProVision Solar. Pacific Business News.

After being battered by government officials and the media, a nonprofit at the center of a scandal involving millions of dollars in federal grant funds is fighting back. Civil Beat.

The jury in State Department special agent Christopher Deedy's murder trial will not have the option of convicting him on the lesser charge of manslaughter. Star-Advertiser.

Tucked behind Barber's Point, newcomer Road and Highway Builders has taken the unprecedented move of shipping in their business: 55,000 tons of crushed rock every three months. KITV4.

Some Kailua residents are upset about a state landscaping project they were never told about. The state chopped down a bunch of trees on a heavily used road. KHON2.

A Waikiki hotel is receiving more than $119,000 as a reward for installing energy efficient air conditioning systems and lights. Associated Press.

Hawaii

In written responses to an online survey, Hawaii Police Chief Harry Kubojiri said he is aware of his department’s “need to improve our visibility and response time.” Tribune-Herald.

The state Narcotics Enforcement Administration is flying marijuana eradication missions on the Big Island through today, a Hawaii Police Department spokeswoman said Tuesday. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Public Radio’s decision to take over KAHU-FM means Ka‘u residents will end radio silence in the district. The Federal Communications Commission last week approved a transfer of ownership of the station from Ka‘u Community Radio Inc. to Hawaii Public Radio for the station, which airs at 91.7 FM. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Following in the footsteps of his predecessor, the late U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye, U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz pledged Monday to continue pursuing the goal of federal government recognition of Native Hawaiians as an indigenous group, similar to Native Americans and Alaskans. Maui News.

Home of Maui's alii, capital of the Hawaiian kingdom, rest stop for whaling ships, missionary headquarters, plantation town, popular visitor destination — "there are so many layers to Lahaina's story, from ancient times to the present," said Theo Morrison, executive director of the nonprofit Lahaina Restoration Foundation. "It's one of very few places that have been significant in all of Hawaii's major historical eras." Star-Advertiser.

Despite its boisterous name and affiliation with rock 'n' roll's Gene Simmons, owners of the proposed Rock & Brews restaurant Monday assured Paia residents that they are "one of the most family-friendly restaurants." Maui News.

Maui hotel occupancy for June rose 2.3 percentage points over last June to 69.7 percent, the only island in the state to register a gain for the month, according to Hospitality Advisors and Smith Travel Research. Maui News.

A new solar array at the Maui Coast Hotel in Kīhei is expected to generate enough energy annually to reduce electric costs by 30%, according to a company announcement. Maui Now.

Kauai

After two motions to withdrawal and amid threats of lawsuits Tuesday, the Kauai Planning Commission unanimously voted to contract a hearings officer for a contested case on the county’s request. The officer will hear a case regarding permits to accommodate tour boat activities at Black Pot Beach Park in Hanalei. Garden Island.

A retired car dealer who pleaded no contest to reckless endangerment in a deadly Kauai dam breach has billed the state $240,000. James Pflueger demanded the state pay for water it has been selling from his dam to local farmers for the past 20 years. Associated Press.

Last week’s incident involving a 74-year-old Kapaa resident operating a school bus under the influence was a first for Complex Area Superintendent Bill Arakaki. KPD reported Koth was not under the influence of alcohol. Garden Island.

Hawaii wants presidential library, tax collections up 10%, state auditor broke procurement laws, lobbyist laws weak, Oahu crash leads to proposed ban on passengers in pickup beds, Hawaii County council considers staff raises, NASA to test Mars craft on Kauai, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Obama reflection, courtesy file photo

The underlying question about how to woo the president is a real one for the Hawaii-based team that is pushing for the creation of the Barack Obama Presidential Center on seven acres of prime waterfront real estate in Kakaako. Obama’s political identity is so intensely linked to his adopted city of Chicago that it would be more than a little surprising if the Windy City doesn't get some lasting reminder of his presidency, like a presidential library, but the islands are angling for their piece, as well. Civil Beat.

Lobbyist disclosures in Hawaii may be a misnomer — the records don't disclose much. Hardly any individual lobbyists reported spending even $1 schmoozing Hawaii lawmakers early in the recent legislative session, making it all but impossible for state residents to tell from the filings how special interest groups are affecting state legislators. Associated Press.

The state Department of Taxation says Hawaii general excise tax revenue rose nearly 10 percent during the first 11 months of the current fiscal year. Associated Press.

The state agency tasked with making sure other agencies follow the law when it comes to spending taxpayer money also violated state procurement practices for years, the state's chief procurement officer wrote in a letter to legislative leaders earlier this year. Civil Beat.

A bill pending before Gov. Neil Abercrombie would remove charitable donations from on itemized deductions by higher-income taxpayers, which are scheduled to remain in place until January 2016. The exception for charitable donations would cost the state about $12 million a year, but Abercrombie, who is expected to sign the bill into law, has said the state is in a better financial position than it was two years ago. Star-Advertiser.

It might be a hard sell given that unions like the Hawaiian Government Employees Union will likely use its resources to push their members to support Sen. Brian Schatz. But in response to the HGEA’s endorsement of Schatz today, Rep. Colleen Hanabusa, who is running for Schatz’s seat, appealed on the rank and file to back her anyway. Civil Beat.

A University of Hawaii John A. Burns School of Medicine research group working to prevent chronic disease by advocating healthy behaviors may be forced to shut down half of its social service programs this year when its grant funding expires. The group, known as the Health Behavior Change Research Workgroup, is seeking private funding to prevent the closure of half of its 10 community intervention programs, which address issues including childhood obesity, cancer, oral health and substance abuse. Star-Advertiser.

University of Hawaii scientists analyzing a Martian meteorite have found a chemical necessary for the formation of genetic material. Star-Advertiser.

Friday night, a military jury found former Pacific Command officer Maj. Seivirak Inson guilty of espionage for passing classified intelligence assessments about Cambodia to people who were not entitled to receive them between 2009 and 2012. KITV4.

For the first time, a woman is taking over as commander of Navy Region Northwest. Associated Press.

State roundup for June 17. Associated Press.

Oahu

The question of whether there should be any restrictions on people riding in the back of a pickup truck is on the minds of many people including lawmakers. The fiery crash near Makua cave that involved 16 people piled in a pickup truck continues to raise more questions. Some lawmakers say it is time to ban people from riding in the back of pickup trucks all together. KHON2.

Honolulu City Councilman Ron Menor is proposing a new website where the homeless can post personalized donation requests for food, shelter or clothing. Civil Beat.

Saks Fifth Avenue plans to enter the Hawaii market as the anchor tenant for the planned redevelopment of the International Market Place in Waikiki, developer Taubman Centers Inc. and landowner Queen Emma Land Co. said Friday. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

Hawaii County Council members will consider giving their staff a 4 percent raise Tuesday. Tribune-Herald.

The County Council’s planned acceptance Tuesday of the Kohanaiki coastal park is a landmark event for Kohala Councilwoman Karen Eoff. West Hawaii Today.

A new, $1.2 million, two-story retail center and office building is going up at the intersection of East Kawili and Hinano streets in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

Waikoloa Development Co. is seeking a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers permit to rebuild the Kuualii fishpond rock wall, dredge sand from the pond and restore the beach at Anaehoomalu Bay in South Kohala. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Members of a local tea party group targeted by the IRS asked Congress Thursday to appoint a special prosecutor to determine whether the federal agency used its powers unfairly to target conservative groups. Tea Party Maui was the subject of a 26-month IRS investigation following the group’s application for a 501-c-4 tax-exempt status. Hawaii Reporter.

Maui County wants to sell eight of its smaller six- to eight-passenger buses that have "outlived their useful lives," according to Department of Transportation Director Jo Anne Winer. Maui News.

Lowering customer bills, pushing toward a clean energy future, modernizing the existing power grid and creating fairness for all customers were the four priorities that Maui Electric Co. officials discussed at their Integrated Resource Planning public meeting Thursday night. Maui News.

Navy Cmdr. Eric Johnson was pleased with the reception that military personnel were receiving on Maui as they delivered free medical and dental care and exams to Maui residents at six locations throughout Maui County on Lana'i, Molokai and Hana from June 4 to 12. Maui Weekly.

For more than 17 years, members of Hui O Wa'a Kaulua have been building Mo'okiha o Pi'ilani, their 62-foot, double-hulled canoe, at Kamehameha Iki Park in Lahaina. Now the canoe is more than 90 percent complete, and the group is aiming to get it into the ocean in December. Maui News.

Kauai
Next summer, NASA plans to send a saucer-shaped Mars entry vehicle aloft by balloon from Kauai, boost it from 120,000 feet to as high as 180,000 feet by rocket, then, as it hurtles through the thin air at 2,600 mph, deploy a speed-reducing inflatable doughnut around the craft, followed by a big parachute, until it plops into the water for pickup. Star-Advertiser.

The Kauai County Housing Agency is moving forward with plans for the county’s first affordable senior housing project in Lihue after an environmental assessment found no significant adverse cultural or environmental impacts. Garden Island.

The latest development plans for Makahuena Point on the island’s southern tip will be reviewed at 6:30 p.m. Thursday at the Koloa Neighborhood Center. Garden Island.

Gov. Abercrombie touts positive budget, Honolulu Fire Dept. merger opposed, Hawaiian roll commission advances, Kauai seabird maimings investigated, invasive species council seeks money, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. Abercrombie budget news conference courtesy photo

Hawaii ended the last fiscal year $300 million in the black, prompting Gov. Neil Abercrombie on Thursday to say he wanted to concentrate on restoring some government services like workers killing rats and agriculture inspectors looking out for invasive species. Associated Press.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie said Thursday that stronger-than-expected state revenue growth last fiscal year could allow the state to restore spending on programs that had been reduced to help balance the budget. Star-Advertiser.

Pointing to an increase of 15 percent in general funds and a positive balance of $306 million at the end of the just-completed fiscal year, the Abercrombie administration says it can likely restore some cuts to programs and positions made over the past 20 months of belt-tightening. Civil Beat.

The state has ended the fiscal year with more than a $300 million positive balance. KHON2.

Hope and optimism were words used repeatedly today when talking about Hawaii's economy. Hawaii News Now.

The commission charged with putting together a roll of Native Hawaiians to form in their own government will announce details of a year-long campaign. Hawaii News Now.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce this week spent another $154,000 on ads endorsing Republican U.S. Senate candidate Linda Lingle, according to the most recent look into the public files. Civil Beat.

Looking for archived government records? They might be in the freezer. Civil Beat.

Island Air

Island Air launched a new look and logo Thursday as part of the Hawaii airline’s new business plan, which includes replacing and doubling the number of turboprop aircraft in its interisland fleet from four to eight by the end of next year. Pacific Business News.

The neighbor islands will receive $3.44 million to buy new county buses, Hawaii’s congressional delegation announced Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

State roundup for July 20. Associated Press.

Oahu

State Health Director Loretta Fuddy said she is not prepared to support a merger of the city Department of Emergency Services with the Honolulu Fire Department as outlined in a study that's mired in controversy. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Department of Health has cautioned Mayor Peter Carlisle against merging the city's Fire and Emergency Services agencies at this time, telling him in a letter Thursday that consolidation "seems premature." Civil Beat.

Honolulu City purchasing records do not support the Fire Department’s version of how a controversial $175,000 consulting contract was awarded in 2010, a review of those records today showed. Hawaii Reporter.

It could take a year and a half to transform a neglected area of Diamond Head into the new home of the Culinary Institute of the Pacific. KITV4.

A businessman was arrested Thursday and charged with harassment for spraying water on people protesting his business that transports kayaks to Kailua Beach Park. Star-Advertiser.

KITV returned to Oceanic Time Warner Cable's system in Hawaii Thursday afternoon after a 10-day blackout when the Honolulu ABC affiliate's parent company, Hearst Television Inc., reached an agreement on retransmission fees with the local cable company's parent, Time Warner Cable. Pacific Business News.

A Hawai`i home care company for seniors has been ordered to pay a former employee nearly $200,000  for reportedly discriminating against her age. Hawaii Public Radio.

Former Governor Ben Cayetano: Mayoral Profile. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii

The two Democrats who want to win over the 27,420 registered voters in Hawaii County's reapportioned Senate District 1 agree that the economy and job creation are priorities for the island's major city, Hilo. Star-Advertiser.

The path to the moon runs through the crater of an ancient cinder cone on Hawaii’s tallest mountain.Tribune-Herald.

There was more talk but no action Thursday on overriding Mayor Billy Kenoi’s veto of three bills passed by the Hawaii County Council. Tribune-Herald.

Absence of Protesters Prompts Council Accusations. Big Island Now.

Big Brothers Big Sisters will expand services to West Hawaii by 2013. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The California landowner developing two large shopping centers in Kihei says plans for the property have always included the possibility of retail despite a legal challenge that contends the land was exclusively intended for a light industrial park. Maui News.

Organizations trying to control or eradicate species from coqui frogs to fire ants and fountain grass are asking the Hawaii Invasive Species Council for $2.9 million in funding for the current fiscal year - including some $260,000 to fight axis deer on Maui and the Big Island. Associated Press.

Unforeseen problems have been encountered by construction crews while replacing a wastewater force main in Lahaina. Maui Now.

Kauai
Ocean forces lifeguard tower relocation, road barriers in Kekaha. Garden Island.

Maiming deaths of seabirds still under investigation. Garden Island.

Kauai County and the Kaua‘i Historical Society are offering free guided walking tours of the County Building in commemoration of the building’s centennial. Star-Advertiser.